ABOUT NETBOOK
Meaning
Netbooks (also called mini notebooks or subnotebooks) are a rapidly evolving category of small, light and inexpensive laptop computers suited for general computing and accessing web-based applications; they are often marketed as “companion devices,” that is, to augment a user’s other computer access. Walt Mossberg called them a “relatively new category of small, light, minimalist and cheap laptops.” By August 2009, CNET called netbooks “nothing more than smaller, cheaper notebooks.”
At their inception in late 2007 — as smaller notebooks optimized for low weight and low cost — netbooks omitted key features (e.g., the optical drive), featured smaller screens and keyboards, and offered reduced specification and computing power. Over the course of their evolution, netbooks have ranged in size from below 5″ to over 13″, and from ~1 kg (2-3 pounds). Often significantly less expensive than other laptops, by mid-2009, netbooks had been offered to users “free of charge”, with an extended service contract purchase.
In the short period since their appearance, netbooks have grown in size and features, now converging with new smaller, lighter notebooks. By mid 2009, CNET noted “the specs are so similar that the average shopper would likely be confused as to why one is better than the other,” noting “the only conclusion is that there really is no distinction between the devices.”
Introduction
Netbooks were first entered the market in fall of 2007 and have evolved rapi่dly from their early beginnings as small and incredibly weak machines to borderline laptop replacements. Overall netbook purchases have been surpassing all sales expectations and now virtually every major computer maker has a model available for sale including: HP, Lenovo, MSI, Asus Acer, samsung and more. However, because most netbooks have nearly the exact same specs it makes very hard to pick the right one. This is precisely why this guide can help highlight the best netbooks available on the market today.
How to pick the right netbook :
It’s important to pick the right netbook based on your usage needs. These are some critical questions to ask:
What will you use the netbook for?
Laptop replacement ? School work ? Listen to music ? Watch videos ? Email ? Facebook/Myspace ? Inexpensive laptop for a child ?
with these answers in mind let’s move onto the most important question:
How long do you plan to type on the netbook for?
If you plan to write school papers, long emails and in general use the keyboard for extended periods of time you should avoid smaller netbooks and purchase a 10 inch netbook instead. In fact a vast majority of consumers are currently buying 10 inch netbooks because of how much
easier they are to type on..These keyboards are usually 92% of a full size keyboard so it only takes a few minutes to get used to typing on these netbooks. I only recommend 9 inch netbooks if the smaller keyboard won’ t cramp your hands why typing (i.e. smaller hands/children) and even then still recommend a 10 inch netbook.
How long do you need to use the netbook for without access to charge the battery?
If you want long baterry life prepare to compromise on weight. In general a 6 cell baterry is about half a pound heavier than a 3 cell baterry; however, you’ll get double the baterry life witha 6 cell baterry (simple math hght?).
lt’s Important to decide what batterry size you want before you purchase the netbook because if you opt to buy a bigger batterry at a later date you just wasted money unnecessarily.Virtually all manufacturers offer netbook configurations with different batterry size.
Which operating system do you want?
currently 9o% of the netbooks sold are bundled with Windows. If you are a Linux user than you can save some money by buying a netbook that is pre-loaded with Linux. Again, for most people that read this guide I recommend you buy the netbook with Windows and then you can always switch to Linux later.
