Netbooks–Are They Right For You?

Posted by JD on October 13, 2009

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In the world of mobile computing, it seems like new models are released every day. The pace may not be that fast in reality, but it’s hard to assimilate the last greatest thing before the next greatest thing comes along. Recently, the marketplace has witnessed the invasion of netbooks, very small versions of the venerable laptop primarily designed to access the web. Their advantages include their small size, light weight and multiple connection options. But don’t expect the netbook to replace your desktop. In fact, if your computing needs give your laptop a workout, don’t give it away when you get your netbook.

For the longest time, you could only compute at home. The desktop computer was everyone’s only option. A few portable (or transportable) computers came and went, but they were like carrying luggage. Reasonably well-performing laptops that you could actually carry began to proliferate in the mid to late 1990s. The IBM Thinkpad was a definite leader in this era. Over time, laptops actually grew in size and power to become true desktop replacements.

A funny thing happened at this point. People began complaining that their laptops were too heavy, too hot and ran short on battery power too quickly. Manufacturers responded by introducing the notebook computer. These new machines were lighter, lasted longer without being plugged in, and accomplished this with only a small sacrifice in performance (but a sacrifice nevertheless).

Not long ago, the mobile computing customer changed again. With the advent of socially interactive sites like Facebook and Twitter, people began wishing they could stay connected to the web pretty much all the time. Smartphones filled the gap for a while, but people wanted more. Enter the netbook.

The netbook is perfect for whipping out to update your Facebook page or post your Twitter updates. Widespread wi-fi and 4G networks make it possible to stay connected in most urban and suburban areas. However, if you think the netbook is something you want, you should not expect it to replace your laptop, notebook or desktop. The netbook is designed primarily for the ‘net (hence the name). So you’ll be getting a machine with a less powerful processor, no optical drives (CD or DVD), a much smaller screen and a really tiny keyboard.

As long as you know what you’re getting into, you may be perfectly happy with a netbook. Just remember it’s probably better to think of it as an oversized phone.