Can You Upgrade Chromebook Storage? eMMC, SSD, and SD

Can you upgrade Chromebook storage?

The short answer is: it depends on the model. Most budget Chromebooks use eMMC storage that is soldered directly to the motherboard, so there is no slot or compartment to swap it out. Some larger or premium Chromebooks use an M.2 SSD, which may be user-replaceable, but that is not always the case and often requires opening the case and voiding the warranty.

What you can always do is expand storage externally. Every Chromebook includes at least one USB port and most have a microSD card slot. You can plug in a USB flash drive or insert a microSD card to store documents, photos, and even some apps. This is a simple, cost-effective way to add space without opening the device.

If you are shopping for a new Chromebook and want to avoid storage constraints, look for models with 128GB or more of internal storage. Chromebook Plus devices, for example, come with at least 128GB of storage, as noted on Google's official Chromebook Plus page.

For more on the basics, see our guide on Chromebook storage explained.

eMMC, SSD, and SD: How they compare

Chromebooks use three main storage types: eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard), SSD (Solid State Drive), and removable SD/microSD cards. Each has different characteristics in terms of speed, capacity, and upgradability.

eMMC is a flash storage chip soldered onto the motherboard. It is common in budget Chromebooks because it is inexpensive and compact, but it is slower than an SSD and cannot be removed. An SSD, often using the M.2 form factor, is faster and typically offers more capacity, but may or may not be replaceable depending on the design. SD cards are external memory cards inserted into a slot; they are the easiest to swap and replace, but they are generally slower than internal storage.

The table below summarizes the key tradeoffs:

SD cards: Performance and limitations

A microSD card is the most common way to expand Chromebook storage after purchase. It is a good option for storing downloaded files, photos, and videos, and it works well for offline access. However, SD cards are generally slower than internal eMMC or SSD, so they are not ideal for running demanding apps or Linux development environments that require fast read/write speeds.

The speed of an SD card matters. Cards labeled with higher speed classes (like UHS-I or UHS-II) are faster, but the actual speed also depends on the Chromebook's card reader. For basic file storage, a standard card is fine; for more intensive tasks, you may notice lag.

You can also use a USB drive or external SSD over USB-C or USB-A for faster performance than an SD card, but it adds a dongle or cable. The tradeoff is portability and convenience.

For a deeper look at whether an SD card can replace internal storage, see our comparison of SD card vs internal storage. You can also learn about microSD card speeds to pick the right card.

How to check your Chromebook's storage options

Before buying, check the specifications for storage type and capacity. Chromebook suppliers usually list whether the storage is eMMC or SSD, and whether there is an SD card slot. You can also look at the device's settings: open Settings, go to About ChromeOS, and then 'Storage' to see how much internal space is available and how it is being used.

If you already own a Chromebook and want to know if the internal storage is upgradeable, search for your model's service manual or check the manufacturer's support page. In many cases, the case is sealed and the storage is soldered, so the only practical upgrade path is external.

Chromebook Plus devices are a special case: they are guaranteed to have at least 128GB of storage, as stated on the official Chromebook Plus page. That means if you choose a Chromebook Plus, you start with a comfortable amount of space and are less likely to need an external expansion right away.

Choosing the right storage for your use

Your storage needs depend on how you use the Chromebook. If you mostly work online with Google Docs, email, and streaming, 32GB or 64GB of eMMC is usually enough, especially if you keep your files in the cloud. If you install many Android apps or use Linux for coding, you'll want more internal storage or a fast external drive.

If you plan to edit videos or store large media files locally, a Chromebook with an SSD (128GB or more) is a better choice. Chromebook Plus models offer this as a baseline, making them a solid pick for power users. For even more capacity, consider one of our best 256GB Chromebooks.

Remember that ChromeOS updates and system files consume part of the internal storage, so a 32GB Chromebook may only have around 20GB usable. Check the actual free space after setup.

• For basic browsing and cloud work: Any Chromebook with 32GB or more and a microSD slot works.
• For Android apps and light gaming: Look for 64GB or more internal storage and a fast SD card.
• For Linux development: Choose a model with 128GB or more internal storage; SD cards are too slow for many tools.
• For media creation: Opt for an SSD or a Chromebook Plus with at least 256GB.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I replace the internal storage in a Chromebook?

Usually no. Most Chromebooks solder the eMMC or SSD directly to the motherboard, so there is no slot for user replacement. A few models with M.2 SSDs may be replaceable, but this is rare and often voids the warranty.

Is a microSD card as fast as internal storage?

No. Internal eMMC or SSD storage is significantly faster than even high-end microSD cards. For everyday file storage it is fine, but for running Linux apps or large programs you will notice the difference.

How much storage do Chromebook Plus models come with?

According to Google's Chromebook Plus page, Chromebook Plus devices come with 128GB or more of internal storage. This makes them a good choice if you want a comfortable amount of space without upgrading later.

Can I use an external USB drive instead of an SD card?

Yes, you can plug in a USB flash drive or external SSD to a Chromebook's USB port. USB drives are often faster than SD cards, especially if they support USB 3.0, but they are less convenient to keep attached.

Will adding an SD card affect my Chromebook's performance?

Adding an SD card itself does not affect performance. However, if you install apps or store your Linux files on the SD card, you may experience slower load times and responsiveness compared to internal storage.

Do Chromebooks still receive updates if I add external storage?

Yes, adding external storage does not change the update process. ChromeOS updates are downloaded to the internal storage. Your Chromebook will continue to receive automatic updates for the device's support period, which is typically 10 years for models released after 2021, as noted on Google's Auto Update policy page.