Usually, yes: the password used for your first Chromebook sign-in is the password for the Google Account linked to the device. But supported Chromebooks can also use a separate PIN or device password for sign-in or screen unlocking. Changing that local option does not change your Google Account password.
Which password does a Chromebook use?
For initial sign-in, enter the email address or phone number for your Google Account and that account’s password. This is the credential for Google services as well as the account-based Chromebook sign-in. Google’s Chromebook sign-in instructions describe this setup.
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After setup, the sign-in and lock-screen options available depend on the device and ChromeOS version. A PIN or configured Chromebook password can provide a separate local way to sign in or unlock the screen where supported. These device options are not a replacement for, or a change to, the Google Account password.
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| Credential | Where it applies | What changing it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Google Account password | Google Account authentication and initial Chromebook sign-in | Access to the Google Account; it is also the password used for account-based Chromebook sign-in. |
| Chromebook PIN or device password | Local Chromebook sign-in or screen unlocking, when supported and configured | The device sign-in or unlock option, not the Google Account password. |
| Saved website password | A particular website or app sign-in saved in Chrome Password Manager | That saved site credential. Google Password Manager can save passwords in a Google Account or locally on the device; it is separate from the Chromebook sign-in credential. See Google’s guide to managing passwords in Chrome. |
Set or change a Chromebook PIN or password option
- On the Chromebook, open Settings → Privacy and security → Lock screen and sign in.
- Confirm your account password if prompted, then choose the available PIN or password option and follow the on-screen instructions.
- For a PIN, choose at least six digits. Google notes that PIN use and the available sign-in options can vary by device. See the current sign-in instructions and screen lock guidance.
If a setting is missing or the label differs, check the instructions for your ChromeOS version. On a work- or school-managed Chromebook, organizational policy may limit the options or require periodic password entry.
#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.
If you forgot the password or cannot sign in
Forgot the Google Account password
Use Google Account recovery. Google may ask questions to verify that the account is yours before allowing a password reset. Do not share your password or verification codes with third-party recovery services; Google says it does not work with services that claim to provide account or password support.
A recently changed password is not working
Google’s sign-in troubleshooting guide advises trying the old password if the password was changed recently. Also check that the Chromebook is connected to the internet and that you entered the correct account details.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
A work or school account is involved
Managed accounts can have organization-specific sign-in and recovery requirements. If a policy blocks access or the standard recovery steps do not work, contact your school or workplace administrator.
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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