If you are looking to breathe new life into your Chromebook, or just want to experiment with a new operating system, Linux is the way to go. There are several Linux distributions (distros) that can be installed on your Chromebook, offering vast customization, flexibility, and efficiency. Here are the top 3 best Linux distros for Chromebooks:

1. Ubuntu:

Ubuntu is the most popular and widely-used Linux distro. It is well suited for Chromebooks because of the user-friendly interface, compatibility with a wide range of hardware, and extensive repository of software programs. You can easily download Ubuntu from the Ubuntu website and follow the instructions to install it on your Chromebook. Ubuntu has a sleek interface with modern design elements and a range of customization options. It also comes equipped with popular software pre-installed, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and the GIMP image editor.

2. GalliumOS:

GalliumOS is a custom-built Linux distro that is specifically designed for Chromebooks. It offers a lightweight, efficient, and optimized environment that complements the Chromebook hardware. GalliumOS also supports Chromebooks’ special hardware features, such as hotkeys, power management, and touchpad drivers. It has a unique interface that resembles Chrome OS but offers additional features such as offline file management and multi-window applications. GalliumOS can be installed via the built-in chrx installer or using a USB drive.

3. Linux Mint:

Linux Mint is another popular Linux distro that works well on Chromebooks. It is based on Debian and Ubuntu and offers a user-friendly interface that is familiar to Windows users. Linux Mint has a vast array of software pre-installed, including the LibreOffice suite, GIMP, and the Mozilla Firefox web browser. It also offers proprietary multimedia codecs, making it ideal for media consumption. Linux Mint is easy to install on a Chromebook using the Crouton method.