After I wrote the last post on the new Disney Netpal I thought I should backtrack and talk about how the netbook differs from the ever-popular laptop.
The netbook is a relatively new product in the computing world. Developed out of our desire, as consumers, to be ultra-portable and ultra-small, the netbook achieves both of these desires.
Generally speaking, netbooks seem to be that missing link between the smart phone and the laptop (or notebook). People are drawn to these mini-laptops by there smaller size (7″-10″ screen) and weight (XX), as well as costing less, on average, than a standard laptop. Netbooks are currently priced starting at $299 whereas laptops are priced anywhere between $350 – $2000*. And, just as laptops vary in price, they also vary in screen size (11.1″ – 18.4″) and weight (3 lbs – 12.5 lbs).
So, if it is smaller and cheaper, why isn’t everyone running out to buy one? Well, that is where we really look at the differences between the Netbook and the Notebook.
The netbook prides itself on portability. It is designed for people on the go. For people who don’t want to be carrying around a big laptop bag. With the compact size the netbook easily fits in most women’s purses!!!
The netbook was not designed to be a “work” computer. Netbooks are great for surfing the web, checking and sending emails, updating your blog, and other social media tasks, but they are not designed to run large programs. Sure, you can run Microsoft Office (you’ll need an external CD drive to install it) but you won’t be running Photoshop or Flash any time soon. The netbooks just don’t have the power to run the more professional programs. And gaming is very limited as well.
As I mentioned above, the netbooks are also lacking any internal CD or DVD drive, much like there predecessor the MacBook Air. This, of course, is easily remedied by purchasing an external drive. I just thought I would mention it!
So, the netbook pros: Very small and portable. Easily slides into your purse or just carry it as a fashion accessory. Comes in a plethora of colors and styles and are designed for speedy web browsing. But the best part is the really affordable price!
And…the netbook cons: The size is a plus but after a while it’s nice to be browsing on a bigger screen. It’s amazing how much bigger even a 13 inch screen feels when you’ve been working on a 7 inch screen all day. The limited processing power and storage space is also a pretty big con for me. My entire existence is on my laptop (backed up to hard drives, of course). I find myself running multiple applications at a time and editing photos while browsing the web or blogging. Even while traveling I am often trying to get some work stuff done. Lastly, the limited battery life/size could be seen as a con for some people if you are always on the go and aren’t able to plug-in and recharge often. I can easily overlook that one though.
Really launching themselves into the consumer world in 2008, many people were skeptical if the netbook would even find a niche. With ultra-small laptops like the MacBook Air already on the market and the known limitations of the netbook, who would actually opt for the netbook? Lots of people! And a lot of computer and design companies are jumping on the Netbook Bandwagon!
I have noticed that the netbook is increasingly popular with moms and with students. The moms can easily toss the netbook into their purse or diaper bag, taking it with them as they wait for their child at the orthodontist or hockey practice. Students like the netbook because of it’s affordability, compact size, and style. They can choose from an assortment of colors and designs and can even go with a Disney or Nickelodeon themed netbook. They can truly have a computer that fits their personality! And, because the netbooks are easily stored in backpacks or lockers, it is actually preferred by some schools for their students to have netbooks instead of the “bulky” laptops.
So, while I do believe that there is definitely a place in the market for the netbook, I do not believe that they will replace the notebooks any time soon. If anything, I think it will cause developers and companies to really look at the design of their notebooks. And, while I would love to have a netbook (because I could always use more gadgets), I think my computing needs are met through my notebook and smartphone.
*prices are always subject to change and are dependent upon brand, specs, sales, deals, and promotions.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you own a netbook? Did you make the switch from Notebook to Netbook? Let us know your experience!
Photo courtesy of ClassmatePC.com
