Brave Browser has rapidly gained popularity for its speed, privacy-first approach, and built-in ad-blocking capabilities. Many users are now looking to run it on Chromebooks, especially those who value performance and security. Whether you’re trying to break free from the Google ecosystem or just looking to try something different, Brave is a compelling option for Chrome OS users.
TL;DR
Yes, you can run Brave Browser on your Chromebook using a few tried-and-tested methods. The three most reliable options are using Linux (Crostini), Android, and Chrome extensions as a workaround. Each method has its benefits depending on your Chromebook model and user preference. With the right setup, you can enjoy the benefits of Brave—including privacy protection and speed—right from your Chromebook.
Why Use Brave Browser on a Chromebook?
Before diving into the installation methods, it’s useful to understand why someone might prefer Brave over the default Chrome browser:
- Privacy: Brave blocks trackers and intrusive ads, keeping your data more secure.
- Speed: Fewer ads and less loading time lead to faster browsing.
- Built-in Features: Includes HTTPS Everywhere, script blocking, and incognito mode with Tor.
- Crypto Integration: Brave Rewards feature allows you to earn Basic Attention Tokens (BAT) as you browse.
Given that most Chromebooks rely heavily on Google Chrome, many users are pleasantly surprised to find they can successfully run Brave using accessible tools and settings built right into modern Chrome OS.
Method 1: Installing Brave via Linux (Crostini)
This is perhaps the most robust and stable way to run Brave on a Chromebook. Chrome OS now comes with Linux (Beta), also known as Crostini, making it possible to run Linux applications directly.
Steps to Install Brave via Linux:
- Enable Linux: Go to Settings > Developers > Linux Development Environment and turn it on. It will take a few minutes to set up.
- Open the Terminal: Once Linux is installed, use the Terminal to enter commands.
- Add Brave Sources: In the Terminal, enter the following commands:
sudo apt install apt-transport-https curl
curl -fsSLo /usr/share/keyrings/brave-browser-archive-keyring.gpg https://brave.com/static-assets/brave-browser-archive-keyring.gpg
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/brave-browser-archive-keyring.gpg] https://brave-browser-apt-release.s3.brave.com/ stable main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/brave-browser-release.list - Update and Install:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install brave-browser - Launch Brave: After installation, you can find Brave in the launcher or start it from the Terminal using
brave-browser.
Pros:
- Full-featured desktop version
- Access to all advanced privacy tools
- Best performance and integration
Cons:
- May feel technical to casual users
- More storage-intensive
Method 2: Install Brave via Android (Google Play Store)
If your Chromebook supports Android apps, installing the mobile version of Brave from the Google Play Store is incredibly simple. This method is ideal for lightweight browsing and ease of use.
Steps to Install Brave via Android:
- Enable Google Play: Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store and ensure it’s enabled.
- Search for Brave: Open the Play Store and search for “Brave Browser.”
- Install: Tap on “Install” and wait for it to complete.
- Launch: Click on the Brave icon from your Launcher to start using it.
Pros:
- Quick and easy installation
- Perfect for casual users
- Minimal technical skills required
Cons:
- Mobile interface may not leverage full-size screen
- Fewer features than desktop version
Method 3: Brave via Chromium Extensions (Workaround)
This method isn’t a full Brave experience but mimics some of its features using Chrome extensions. If you’re unable to use Linux or Android versions, this is a decent alternative.
Steps to Achieve a Brave-Like Browser Using Chrome Extensions:
- Ad Blocking: Install uBlock Origin from the Chrome Web Store.
- Privacy Enhancements: Add Privacy Badger to block trackers and protect privacy.
- Security: Enable HTTPS Everywhere from the EFF to force connections to use HTTPS.
By combining a few powerful Chrome extensions, you can closely mimic the privacy benefits of Brave Browser without installing it natively.
Pros:
- No installation of extra software needed
- Runs entirely within Chrome
- Customizable based on user needs
Cons:
- Not a true Brave experience
- Relies on Chrome as the underlying browser
Important Notes and Compatibility
- Not all Chromebooks support Linux or Android apps. Check your model’s specifications.
- Older devices may face performance issues with Linux installation.
- Always keep your system updated for the best results and security.
Tips for Better Performance with Brave on Chromebook
Once you’ve installed Brave, keep these helpful tips in mind for the best experience:
- Disable Background Apps: Turn off unused background apps to free up memory.
- Enable Shields Up: Brave’s built-in shield settings offer control over trackers, ads, and cookies.
- Sync Devices: Use Brave sync chain to bring bookmarks and settings from other devices securely.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a privacy advocate or simply tired of intrusive ads, installing Brave on your Chromebook is a smart move. Thanks to Chrome OS’s flexibility with Linux and Android support, you have more options than ever to break away from traditional pathways without sacrificing performance or user experience.
The method you choose depends entirely on your comfort level and your device’s capabilities. For a full browser experience with all features enabled, Linux installation is best. For quick access with minimal setup, Android is your go-to. And for those who prefer to stick with Chrome, Brave-like functionality is just a few extensions away.
So give it a try—Brave might just become your new favorite browser, even on a Google-powered Chromebook.