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To move to a new Chromebook, sign in with the same Google Account to restore supported synced Chrome information, then copy files stored locally—especially anything in Downloads—using Google Drive or compatible external storage. These are separate steps: signing in does not create a complete copy of the old Chromebook’s disk. “Googlebook” is not Google’s usual product name; the device is called a Chromebook.
What transfers automatically—and what does not
Google Account sync can bring supported Chrome information to the new Chromebook after you sign in with the same account. Depending on your sync settings, this can include bookmarks, apps, extensions, browsing history, passwords, Wi-Fi networks, and device settings. Google notes that work or school administrators may disable sync. Google’s Chromebook switching guide and sync settings guide explain what can be synced.
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Files saved only on the old Chromebook are different. In particular, files in Downloads are not synced, so copy any you want to keep before retiring the old computer. Files already in Google Drive are available through your account; photos stored in Google Photos can be accessed there.
Choose how to move your files
| Option | Best for | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Google Drive | Files you want available through your Google Account without carrying a physical device. | You need internet access to upload and retrieve files, and enough available Drive space for the files you want to move. |
| USB flash drive or external hard drive | An offline copy, or moving files without uploading them. | Check connector fit and filesystem compatibility with the Chromebook. The drive must be readable by the Files app. |
| Quick Share | A small selection of files sent to a nearby supported device. | It is a convenience option, not a complete migration method. Google’s described Chromebook flow requires ChromeOS 91 or later and Android 6.0 or later for Android sharing; Quick Share is off by default and organizations may restrict it. See Google’s Quick Share instructions. |
Move files and settings step by step
1. Check the old Chromebook
- Confirm which Google Account is in use. You will need that same account on the new Chromebook for synced information and Drive files.
- If you use Chrome on the old computer, sign in to Chrome and check that the sync categories you want are enabled. On a managed work or school device, an administrator may control these options.
- Open the Files app and inspect Downloads and other folders under My files. Copy anything important that is stored locally rather than in Drive. Do not assume local files are included in sync.
2. Back up local files
For Drive, upload local files you want to keep to your Google Drive account. For a physical backup, connect a compatible USB flash drive or external hard drive, open the Files app, and copy the items to that device. Google’s switching guide describes Drive and external storage as file-transfer options.
#1 Best Overall
- Intel Celeron N4120: 4 Cores & Threads, 1.1GHz Base Clock, Up to 2.6GHz Boost Clock, 4MB Cache, Intel UHD Graphics 600. The perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value helps your device handle multitasking smoothly and reliably with four processing cores to divide up the work.
Chromebooks can access several external-storage formats, including FAT16, FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS. Google lists journaled HFS+ as read-only, as well as ISO9660 and UDF. Actual compatibility depends on the device and format; consult Google’s external-device and file-type guidance if a drive does not appear. Do not format a device as a troubleshooting shortcut: formatting erases its files. If the Chromebook cannot read the storage device, connect it to another computer and upload the files to Drive or another cloud service before proceeding.
3. Set up the new Chromebook
- Connect the new Chromebook to the internet and follow its on-screen setup prompts. Google lists internet access and Google Account credentials among the setup requirements; see Google’s Chromebook setup guide.
- Sign in with the same Google Account used on the old device. Supported synced information should become available as the account and device finish setting up.
4. Retrieve your files
- From Drive: Open the Files app and select Google Drive. Give files a little time to appear.
- From external storage: Connect the device, open the Files app, select the storage device, then copy the wanted items into My files.
5. Check important apps and files before wiping the old device
Android app backup and restore controls are on by default according to Google, but app data may not fully sync across multiple Chromebooks. Check key apps and confirm that important files open on the new device before wiping, trading in, or handing over the old one. Google explains the Android app backup and restore options in its Android apps on Chromebook guide.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
Use Quick Share for selected nearby files
Google’s Chromebook Help says, “Nearby Share is now Quick Share.” Quick Share can send selected files between supported nearby Chromebooks, Android devices, and Windows PCs. It is useful for a few items, but it does not replace checking sync and backing up local folders. Follow Google’s instructions for sharing files with nearby devices to enable and use it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
Rank #4
- THE BETTER WAY TO LAPTOP – Imagine a Chromebook that’s as flexible as your day: thin and lightweight with built-in Google apps and stress-free security.
- TAKE HITS KEEP MOVING – Sleek, light, and built to last- the Chromebook 2-in-1 is just 0.69” thick and 3.3lbs. Enjoy long-lasting battery life, fast charging, and military-grade durability for nonstop productivity wherever life takes you.
- PERFORMANCE THAT MATCHES YOUR HUSTLE – Fuel your ideas with an Intel Core processor and 128GB storage. Boot up in under 10 seconds to start the day powerfully efficient.
- FLEX YOUR CREATIVITY ANYWHERE, ANYTIME – Create, work, or unwind your way with a versatile 2-in-1 design. Flip easily between laptop, tent, and tablet modes with a responsive touchscreen built for flexibility.
- BRILLIANT VIEWS AND IMMERSIVE AUDIO – See, hear, and create with awesome clarity. The WUXGA display brings rich detail to your work and play, while audio tuned by Waves MaxxAudio provides immersive, balanced sound.
Rank #3
- Intel Processor Up to 2.80GHz, 4GB DDR4, 128GB Storage
- 15" FHD IPS Display, Intel UHD Graphics
- 1x USB Type C, 1 x USB Type A, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, HDMI
- Fast WiFi and Bluetooth, Integrated Webcam
- Chrome OS, AC Charger Included, Pastel Silver
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