This comparison looks at two very different technologies within the Google/Chromium ecosystem: the Google Cr-48 (a pioneering 2010 notebook prototype) and
If you are
, a specialized modern Chromebox designed for localized automated testing environments google cr-48 vs wyvern moblab
This review compares the Google CR-48 , the legendary 2010 prototype that launched the ChromeOS era, and the Wyvern MobLab This comparison looks at two very different technologies
Unique Features: It famously replaced the Caps Lock key with a Search key and introduced a dedicated row of browser-specific function keys. Optimized for web browsing, streaming, and web apps;
Believe it or not, many CR-48 units still work thanks to the Chromium OS community. You can flash MrChromebox’s custom firmware and run a lightweight Linux distro (e.g., Arch, Alpine, or even a modern Chrome OS build via Brunch). With an SSD upgrade and 4GB RAM (soldered, so no), you’re limited. But as a writing machine? Flawless. As a daily driver? No—the 3G is dead (Verizon shut down 2G/3G CDMA), the Wi-Fi is slow, and modern HTTPS sites bog down the Atom.
| Feature | Google CR-48 | Wyvern MobLab | | --- | --- | --- | | Form Factor | Traditional netbook (12.3 inches) | Compact, USB-based (4.5 inches) | | Processor | 1.66 GHz Intel Atom | 1.7 GHz Intel Bay Trail-M | | RAM | 2GB | 2GB | | Storage | 16GB SSD | 32GB SSD | | Operating System | Chrome OS | Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux | | Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet (via host device) | | Price | Discontinued (originally $350) | $299 (current price) |