The end of Windows 10 support (October 2025) is approaching, so users (at least those who regularly access the internet) still have some time to think about their next step. A free upgrade to Windows 11 should be available for most computers from the last 5-6 years (starting from the Intel Core 8000 or AMD Ryzen 3000). If a PC or laptop does not qualify for an upgrade because the hardware is too old or no upgrade is planned, users have two options: switch to another operating system or postpone the end of support (max. three years) by paying an annual fee. In the latter case, Microsoft will continue providing security updates.
In principle, Windows 11 can also be installed on computers that do not meet the minimum requirements set by Microsoft. However, neither error-free operation nor the provision of updates is guaranteed. Hence, an unrealistic option.
Linux (z.B. Ubuntu, Fedora, Mint) and ChromeOS Flex could be considered as operating system alternatives, of which we take a closer look at the third option. We installed it on a 10-year-old Lenovo ThinkPad L540, which recently had to undergo a retro check (in German only; interested readers can use the automatic translation tool as long as it is supported by their browser).
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ChromeOS Flex - a limited ChromeOS
ChromeOS is a lean operating system from Google that is designed for the use of cloud-based services and applications, preferably from Google (e.g. Docs, Sheets, GMail). Support for native applications and Android apps has been added over time, meaning that the system now offers more options than previously. ChromeOS Flex is a limited version of ChromeOS in terms of functionality. For example, Android apps cannot be used. On the other hand, the system is provided by Google free of charge.
While ChromeOS usually comes to customers via Chromebooks (laptops, 2-in-1s), Chromeboxes (mini PCs, thin clients) or Chromebases (all-in-ones), ChromeOS Flex is intended for installation on existing hardware. The resource-light operating system can give older computers in particular a second lease of life, but it is certainly not a 1:1 replacement for Windows 10.
Which devices meet the requirements of ChromeOS Flex?
Google's answer: "ChromeOS Flex is designed to support the most common PCs and Macs over the last 10+ years, but it is only officially supported on certified models." The list of certified devices is quite extensive, but devices not listed are not necessarily excluded. Only trial and error will bring clarity: the ChromeOS Flex installation medium can be run directly without the need for installation in order to determine hardware compatibility. ChromeOS Flex only supports x64 hardware, while ChromeOS offers ARM compatibility.
Our test device, the ThinkPad L540, is not a certified device, but its 14-inch sister model, the ThinkPad L440, is based on the same platform. This means that the entire hardware of the L540 is supported, including a retrofitted LTE modem.
Creating an installation medium is quick
The ChromeOS Flex image, which is packed in a ZIP folder (does not need to be unpacked), is saved to a USB stick (at least 8 GB) using the "Rufus" tool (creates bootable USB data carriers). Alternatively, a tool provided by Google (Chromebook Recovery Utility) can be used. The latter is not a standalone application, but an extension for Google's Chrome browser.
Install, log in, get started
Plug the stick into the target computer, switch it on, call up the boot menu (via the F12 key in the case of the ThinkPad L540) and start the computer using the stick. If this does not work, deactivating Secure Boot in the computer's BIOS may help. The stick can be used both for direct installation of the operating system and as a live system (= no installation). In both cases, a Google account and an internet connection are required.
Note: In the case of an installation, the entire hard disk of the target computer is erased. A installation on another existing operating system at the same time is not possible.