Guide: Unlock After Effects for Free on Chromebook

Purchasing a Chromebook appeals to many individuals, particularly students and young professionals seeking efficient productivity. These compact and lightweight mini laptops offer a user-friendly experience. Moreover, Chromebooks are economically advantageous compared to other laptop options, considering both hardware and IT expenses.

• Furthermore, Chromebooks exhibit enhanced durability as they possess fewer moving components and rely on cloud storage rather than physical, local storage, thereby reducing the risk of mechanical issues. However, as with any advantageous product, Chromebooks also have their drawbacks;
• Chromebooks operate on Chrome OS, which primarily functions online. Consequently, certain offline applications may not function properly. In this regard, it is worth mentioning that the article will also explore the best graphics software compatible with Chromebook and affordable laptops suitable for after effects.

The question arises: Can after effects be used on a Chromebook? Unfortunately, the answer is no. After Effects, a software dedicated to motion graphics and visual effects, is among the many Adobe applications that cannot be utilized on Chromebook or Chrome OS. This program demands more processing power than a typical Chromebook or even a low-end Windows or Mac laptop can provide.

Here are some recommended alternative laptops for utilizing After Effects

The compatibility of software poses a significant challenge for Chromebooks, as most providers do not offer versions suitable for this type of laptop. Adobe, for instance, has made at least six lightweight apps available to Chromebook users, but heavier applications like After Effects are currently inaccessible.

• When it comes to graphic design, Chromebooks fall short. Many preferred apps used by creatives, graphic designers, and other professional artists are resource-intensive and cannot be supported by Chrome OS. To use a Chromebook for design and creative purposes, one would need to upgrade to a model equipped with powerful hardware;
• Unfortunately, Google is considering the possibility of blocking resource-heavy applications from their platform, making it highly unlikely that Chromebooks will support popular graphic design apps in the future. The only relief is that Chromebooks do support web-based graphics programs and editors like Boxy SVG and EvolveUI, which can serve as alternatives to mainstream graphic design software;
• So, can you engage in graphic design on a Chromebook? The answer is yes, but your options will be limited. Chromebooks do not support major graphic design programs like Adobe After Effects and Photoshop. If you are a beginner in the field of graphic design, using a Chromebook can be a viable option, as it supports lightweight web-based programs with shorter learning curves. Additionally, Adobe offers at least six different graphics design programs for Chromebook users to explore as they familiarize themselves with the field.

However, for professional designers and experienced artists, Chromebooks are not suitable, as they lack the power to support offline-based graphic design programs. It is advisable for such individuals to seek out inexpensive regular laptops that are compatible with their preferred programs and can meet their creative needs.

Best graphics software for Chromebook

When it comes to the best graphics software for Chromebook, one might think that the limitations of the operating system hinder the ability to use popular graphic design applications. However, this does not mean that Chromebook users are unable to unleash their creativity. In fact, Chrome OS supports a range of lighter programs that enable users to draw, sketch, illustrate, and design graphics. Here are a few examples of graphics software specifically designed for Chromebook:

ArtFlow

ArtFlow is a highly suitable graphics design app that seamlessly functions on Chromebook. 

• This digital art studio provides users with an extensive collection of tools and resources, allowing them to create sketches, drawings, and paintings from scratch;
• Installing and utilizing this program on a Chromebook is incredibly straightforward, making it an excellent alternative to more advanced apps like Sketchbook, which might overwhelm beginners;
• ArtFlow manages to strike a balance between simplicity and functionality, offering a wide array of customizable brushes, smudge tools, symmetry tools, and color pickers;
• What sets this software apart is that it is available for free, with an option to upgrade to a paid version that offers additional tools and features for a nominal fee;
• Additionally, ArtFlow continuously evolves and receives updates, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and improvements. It provides a user-friendly interface and a plethora of creative possibilities, making it an ideal choice for graphic design enthusiasts looking to make the most of their Chromebook.

Infinite Painter

If one is interested in visual art and is still in the process of learning graphics design, Infinite Painter is a recommended choice. 

• This graphics software, although appearing simple and basic, proves to be exceptionally compatible with Chromebook;
• With an impressive collection of over 160 preset brushes that can be customized, it enables users to elevate their skills to new heights;
• The abundance of tools offered by the app is truly remarkable. It boasts gradient tools, geometric tools, aids for perspective, paper textures, transformation tools, support for layers, patterns, and blend modes;
• Additionally, the clone tool allows users to effortlessly transform photographs into paintings with just a simple click;
• When aiming to enhance one’s graphic design skills and advance in the field, investing in a laptop that supports design programs such as Adobe After Effects becomes imperative.

Graphic design is an enjoyable and rewarding profession, but it demands rigorous work and relies heavily on high-quality software and hardware.

To meet these demands, a powerful laptop or desktop is required to handle the intensive tasks involved. While Chromebooks may offer convenience in terms of their lightweight design, affordability, and user-friendly interface, they unfortunately fall short when it comes to graphic design.

Gravit Designer

Gravit Designer emerges as a remarkable graphics design software that deserves consideration for Chromebook users. 

• With the ability to function both online and offline, it caters to the needs of beginners and professionals alike, offering a vast array of tools and resources tailored to fuel creativity;
• This versatile app empowers users to effortlessly create various graphic elements such as icons and logos, while also providing the capability to vectorize images and apply effects to photos, eliminating the need for separate applications;
• The possibilities are virtually endless, as Gravit Designer enables the creation of illustrations, animations, and other captivating characters with professional finesse.

Acer Swift 3

• CPU: Intel Core i7;
• Graphics: NVidia GeForce MX150;
• RAM: 16GB;
• Screen: 14″ FHD;
• Storage: 1TB SSD;
• Despite its affordability, the Acer Swift 3 impressively incorporates premium features typically found in high-end machines;
• Encased in a slim and stylish silver chassis, it harbors the latest Intel Core i7 processor, accompanied by an NVidia GeForce MX150 graphics card;
• The laptop’s screen-to-body ratio and IPS VertiView display ensure comfortable and immersive designing and drawing sessions without straining the eyes;
• With 16GB of expandable RAM, the Acer Swift 3 can effortlessly handle resource-intensive design programs, while its capacious 1TB SSD storage offers seamless accessibility to all graphic design projects.

ASUS TUF A15

• Primarily optimized for gaming, the ASUS TUF A15 also serves as a reliable companion for graphic designers;
• Combining affordability with impressive features, this laptop boasts a lightweight and slim design, ensuring portability for project presentations;
• Equipped with a powerful 32GB DDR4 RAM, it effortlessly supports resource-intensive programs like Adobe After Effects, with the option to upgrade the RAM for improved responsiveness;
• The 15.6″ FHD screen offers a captivating view of design projects, and the 1TB SSD storage allows for quick load times and potential expansion for additional graphic design files and projects.

Dell XPS 15

The Dell XPS 15, although the priciest option on the list, remains one of the most affordable laptops for running After Effects.

• Equipped with the latest 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor and an NVidia GeForce GTX1650 graphics card, this laptop guarantees exceptional display quality and performance;
• Notably, the Dell XPS 15 allows for customization, including the addition of a discrete GPU to support a wide range of graphics software, video editing programs, image editors, and gaming applications. While the base RAM is 16GB, it can be expanded up to a remarkable 64GB, ensuring ample resources for demanding graphic design applications;
• The 15.6″ FHD/UHD display and 1TB SSD storage drive make the Dell XPS 15 an essential tool for any dedicated graphic designer.

To wrap up

In the world of graphic design, having a laptop that can support Adobe After Effects and other similar programs is essential for unleashing one’s creative potential. While Chromebooks may have their advantages in terms of being lightweight, user-friendly, and affordable, they do not meet the minimum requirements for running most graphics software effectively. As a result, it becomes necessary to explore other options that can handle the demanding nature of graphic design tasks.

• The Acer Swift 3, ASUS TUF A15, and Dell XPS 15 are three budget-friendly laptops that have garnered attention for their compatibility with design programs like After Effects. Each of these laptops possesses unique features and capabilities that cater to the needs of graphic designers, making them viable choices for those on a budget;
• The Acer Swift 3 stands out as the most affordable option on the list, proving that cost-effectiveness doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on performance. With an Intel Core i7 processor and an NVidia GeForce MX150 graphics card, this laptop delivers impressive power for seamless multitasking and smooth graphics rendering. Its 14″ FHD screen and 1TB SSD storage further enhance the overall user experience;
• The ASUS TUF A15, originally designed for gaming, offers an attractive blend of affordability and performance. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 processor and an NVidia GeForce RTX2060 graphics card, it ensures excellent visual quality and responsiveness for graphic design tasks. The laptop’s 32GB RAM, which can be upgraded for enhanced performance, along with its 15.6″ FHD display and 2TB SSD storage, provide ample space for creating and storing design projects;
• For those who are willing to invest a bit more, the Dell XPS 15 presents itself as a premium option that guarantees top-notch performance. With an Intel Core i7 processor and an NVidia GeForce GTX1650 graphics card, this laptop offers exceptional power and visual capabilities. The Dell XPS 15 can be configured with up to 64GB of RAM, providing designers with the freedom to tackle even the most resource-intensive design applications. The 15.6″ FHD/UHD display and 1TB SSD storage further elevate the overall experience, ensuring that every detail of the design is vivid and easily accessible;
• When choosing a laptop for graphic design, it’s important to consider factors beyond just software compatibility. Portability, display quality, storage capacity, and upgradeability are all crucial aspects to evaluate. The featured laptops strike a balance between affordability and performance, catering to the specific needs of graphic designers.

Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that investing in a reliable laptop for graphic design is an investment in one’s professional growth and future success. Having a machine that can handle the demanding tasks of design software not only improves productivity but also opens up possibilities for more complex and creative projects.

Conclusion

It’s evident that Chromebooks are not the optimal choice for individuals seeking a laptop compatible with Adobe After Effects and similar programs. While they offer convenience, affordability, and user-friendly interfaces, they fall short in meeting the minimum requirements for running most graphics software. Moreover, Chromebooks heavily rely on internet connectivity, as the majority of supported apps are web-based. Therefore, investing in one of the featured laptops is a recommended approach for those who aspire to excel in graphic design and harness the full potential of powerful design programs.