Laptop Computers
Are You Need A Laptop Or A Netbook ?
Laptop & Netbook
Laptops and Netbooks are optimized for different use scenarios. Read this guide to get the scoop.
Laptops are a better option for users whose regular computing activities include:
- Downloading large files
- Running advanced software applications, like Adobe Photoshop
- Storing large amounts of digital photography
- Playing video games
- Watching DVDs
Netbooks are a great choice for users who want an ultra-portable computer that’s optimized for:
- Surfing the Internet
- Sending and receiving email
- Communicating via instant messaging
- Running very basic software, like Microsoft Word
- Storing minimal amounts of digital photography and music
What Makes Netbook Computers Different?
One of the most exciting developments in PC products to come out over the last several years is the netbook, a mini-sized laptop-syle computer that bridges the gap between the portability of a smartphone and the computing power of a notebook PC. While they provide excellent connectivity to the Web (hence, the netbook name), easy packing for your travels and excellent value, netbooks do not have the full computing arsenal you may be accustomed to in a laptop.
In this buying guide, we’ll take you through what features you can expect to find from a typical netbook to help you determine if a netbook is right for your needs.
What Specifications Characterize a Netbook?
At its most basic definition, a netbook is a smaller, more mobile laptop-style computer that enables you to connect to the Internet, communicate via email, instant messaging and VoIP telephony/video, enjoy both streaming and stored multimedia, and perform basic office-style tasks such as word processing and spreadsheets.
From a form factor point of view, netbooks have much smaller screens than you’ll find on laptop computers–usually between 7 and 10 inches compared to 12 to 15 inches for most mobile-centric laptops. Unlike some devices labeled as Ultramobile PCs (or UMPCs, such as the Samsung Q1 or the Sony UX series, netbooks have laptop-style keyboards that allow for traditional typing rather than a thumb-style keyboard as well as an electro-static touchpad for navigation.
Aside from the miniaturization of the laptop form, another defining feature of a netbook is its affordability, with most typically found at $500 or lower. But what do you get under the hood?
