Top 5 Best OS Alternatives for Chromebook in 2025

If you're feeling limited by the default ChromeOS on your Chromebook, you're not alone. While ChromeOS is fast and cloud-friendly, it lacks advanced software support, offline flexibility, and full control that many users want — especially developers, tinkerers, and privacy-conscious users.

Here’s a list of the best operating system alternatives for Chromebooks in 2025, including links to download and install them safely.

1. Linux (GalliumOS, Ubuntu, or Linux Mint)

Best for: Developers, coders, and advanced users

Why Choose It:
Linux offers a full desktop experience, access to thousands of open-source apps, and complete control over your system. GalliumOS is specially optimized for Chromebook hardware, while Ubuntu and Linux Mint are beginner-friendly.

Pros:

• Full Linux desktop environment

• Lightweight options available

• Great for coding, app development, and privacy

Download Links:

• GalliumOS (Optimized for Chromebook)

• Ubuntu Linux

• Linux Mint

2. FydeOS (ChromiumOS with Android and Linux Support)

Best for: Users wanting a ChromeOS-like feel with more freedom

Why Choose It:
FydeOS is based on ChromiumOS, but unlike ChromeOS, it supports Android apps and Linux packages out of the box. It’s perfect if you love ChromeOS but need more flexibility.

Pros:

• Android app support

• Linux environment built-in

• Looks like ChromeOS but is fully open-source

Download Link:

• FydeOS Official Site

3. ChromeOS Flex (by Google)

Best for: Reviving old laptops or using ChromeOS on other devices

Why Choose It:
Google’s official alternative to ChromeOS for non-Chromebooks, ChromeOS Flex is lightweight, secure, and ideal for breathing new life into older laptops. It’s easy to set up and manage.

Pros:

• Backed by Google

• Cloud-first and fast

• Works on most modern hardware

Download Link:

• ChromeOS Flex – Get Started

4. Arch Linux / Manjaro

Best for: Tech enthusiasts who want maximum customization

Why Choose It:
Arch-based systems give you total control. Manjaro is a user-friendly version of Arch, making it more accessible while keeping the power of the Arch ecosystem.

Pros:

• Rolling updates

• Full system control

• Great package management with Pacman

Download Links:

• Manjaro Linux

• Arch Linux (Advanced users only)

5. Ubuntu Web Remix

Best for: Chromebook-like experience with Linux freedom

Why Choose It:
Ubuntu Web Remix brings a Chromebook-style UI to Linux, supporting web apps (PWAs), while still giving you the power of Linux behind the scenes.

Pros:

• Web-focused UI

• Great alternative to ChromeOS

• Supports full Linux ecosystem

Download Link:

• Ubuntu Web Remix

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best OS for your Chromebook depends on what you want: Linux for control, FydeOS for flexibility, or ChromeOS Flex for simplicity. Each of these options gives your Chromebook a second life beyond the limitations of stock ChromeOS.