That explains why they're cheaper than Windows, but what makes them cheaper than equivalent hardware with e.g. Ubuntu?

Right. We have tested Ubuntu as well. Still figuring out what the right solutions are. Do you think Ubuntu might be a better option? Or are there any other solutions that might be relevant for us?

I would personally recommend ubuntu. It's also free and unlikely to get viruses. Plus, In my experience from helping the elderly and other computer illiterates get connected, it often has a much gentler learning curve.The main hurdle then would be to find the cheap hardware with decent compatibility (perhaps a cheap 2 in 1).

Also, you should consider approaching canonical about sponsorship. Considering their relationship with amazon there has to be some funding to be found there.

Got it! Will definitely consider Ubuntu and approach Canonical. Thanks a lot!

Yeah but I'm wondering why Google is giving out ChromeOS at (presumably) no cost to hardware vendors. That means they must make their money from the customer somehow through e.g. extensive tracking.

Sure, that's why one of the options we consider might be Ubuntu. Chromebooks were fast and cheap solutions to start with.

Alright, that makes sense!