To Netbook or not to Netbook.

Netbooks are a relatively new phenomenon with the first one being released in late 2007. Since then we have seen literally hundreds of models hit the market with over 10 million units sold.

If you are not familiar with the term, a Netbook is a new breed of laptop. Its main purpose is (as the name would suggest) going on line. Many companies (Microsoft, Google amongst others) have launched entire software suites that exist only online. This is known as “Cloud Computing”. Both have stripped down versions of Word, Excel and other software that you can use for free and access from any computer with an internet connection. Because of this, the computer running it does not have to be powerful or have much storage capacity as the files are stored on the “Cloud”.

Traditionally, any computer with a screen smaller than 9 inches and a price between 300 and 400 dollars was considered a Netbook. They also use smaller incredibly cheap processors. Most of them use Intel’s Atom processor made popular by the “One laptop per child” program. Lately that definition has started to become blurred with larger screens and higher priced devices still being labeled as Netbooks. Asus has their Eee PC S101 with a 10.2” display and retails for over 875.00. Sony refused to enter the Netbook race calling it a “race to the bottom” but recently released a “pocket sized” Notebook with an 8 inch screen but is expected to sell for about 900.00 for the lower end model and 1500.00 for the high end version. That is more expensive then some higher end 17 inch HP entertainment Laptops.

So the question still remains, is a Netbook right for you? While the definition of a Netbook may be becoming more blurred, their purpose isn’t. These are for browsing the internet and that’s about it. You could view pictures on them or watch short videos but be prepared for slow load times and choppy performance.

While they might be small and cheap, Netbooks are usually used to compliment a laptop as they have long battery life and fit easily in most bags, not replace them.