Did you research this at all to see if you can install Windows on the Pixelbook Go?

Since you didn't tell us how much you will be paying for this, and since it seems like there's a chance you will end up with a nice paperweight, or at best a Windows system with reduced functionality, it would have to be a really cheap price, IMO, for this to be a good idea. At least for me.

If you are looking for a really cheap notebook, I recommend you look at refurbished systems.

 

I agree with Digerati, if you are looking for Windows, buy a machine that was built for Windows. IMO Chromebooks should only be reserved for schoolwork or work that uses the GoogleSuite.

There is some chatter on Reddit about needing to be a certain ChromeOS but I would suspect that it would be more trouble than it's worth. A refurbished system would be the way to go... or wait for some holiday deal like Black Friday, or whatever holiday sales you have in your area.

 

Yes, go for a refurbished system. A refurb can be one of two things: a) the customer bought it and didn't like it, so it was returned to the store. The store returns the item to factory for it to be checked out just to be sure. b) the customer bought the product and it failed. So it was returned to the factory where they repaired it.

You won't know which of the 2 scenarios applies to the refurb. So you are taking a chance. But at around 20% - 30% less than normal retail price.

The thing is with a Chromebook, you may not be able to get Windows drivers for the hardware they use. A Chromebook maker can choose the cheapest part that only has a Linux driver, and you won't be able to use Windows on it.

 

Yes, go for a refurbished system. A refurb can be one of two things: a) the customer bought it and didn't like it, so it was returned to the store. The store returns the item to factory for it to be checked out just to be sure. b) the customer bought the product and it failed. So it was returned to the factory where they repaired it.

Actually, there is a third reason that, in many cases, is even more common.

It is common for some organizations (big companies, schools, event/convention planners, governments, etc.) to lease large quantities of PCs and/or laptops for a single event, or perhaps 1 or 2 years, then return them when the lease contract ends.

Many big companies and government organizations buy large quantities on a cycle - for example every 3 - 5 years and "trade-in" the old computers.

These computers are then checked out, certified as working, then resold as "refurbished". This is how, Walmart, for example, might have 500 of the exact same model.

In any case, do your homework before buying any "refurbished" item. A refurbished item from a reputable retailer will come with a warranty - some as long as 1 year.

 

Good advice, Bill.

I'm not into laptops, but I've had very good results with refurbed business class desktops.
I bought several from Newegg that were listed in their descriptions as suitable for Windows and Linux.
I've read in the past that business class computers tend to be a bit more durable than consumer models. Better parts.

One caution. Since most sold, with Newegg being a reseller, it's important to check out their reputations. Some are very good, some not so good.

 

I've read in the past that business class computers tend to be a bit more durable than consumer models. Better parts.

Durable? Nah! I don't buy that. Durable suggests to me, the devices are able to endure more wear and tear and abuse.

I seen many business class computers and saw nothing to suggest the parts were better. In fact, in many, the makers have cut lots of corners to cut costs to include using generic power supplies barely suitable, in size, to support the components they come with. Most use integrated graphics, not quality graphics cards. And most come with smaller amounts of generic or budget RAM.

 

It may be anecdotal, but I have had better luck with the two business refurbs I bought than consumer models in the past, but then I'm a bit of a 'bottom feeder' ( and not a gamer ) to start with so the consumer models were basics that many users might not want

 

I would actually expect the business models to be more basic. Aesthetics, for example, are less important, as are extra features. Fewer features, nothing fancy means fewer parts to go bad.

 

More basic than what? ( rhetorical )
Usage usually dictates hardware with considerations of utility versus ability.
A business machine that's on the better part of the day compared to a home based machine used a significantly shorter period of time?
They may do the same tasks, but one needs to be able to be in service for a longer period of time.
The lessee needs a solution good for a 3 to 5 year period, to function with reliability in a business setting.
Most home owners with a basic computer use them for storage, email, news, and social media. Not so much of a financial need compared the degree of a business setting.

And gamers....well, they aren't going to be interested in business class or even run of the mill consumer units. They seem to tilt towards cutting edge tech and custom builds. And they seem to upgrade/replace frequently.