A:Answer The main difference is, of course, the operating system. A Chromebook runs Google's Chrome OS, which is basically its Chrome browser dressed up a bit to look like the Windows desktop. However, it is favorable because it runs less memory takes up less space, and perfect for school or small children. Better yet, because it updates itself automatically and the updates take a fraction of the time of Windows and Mac updates to install. Since the software is smaller and takes less memory it is more common is smaller devices such as 10-inch laptops and even car stereos.