| Portable computing has changed immensely over the | | | | - Screen sizes: netbooks tend to be smaller, around 12 |
| last five years, thanks to a combination of faster | | | | inches maximum but more typically around 10 inches or |
| processors, more efficient batteries, improved display | | | | less. |
| technology and improvements in storage capability that | | | | - Processing power: laptops can handle big, demanding |
| all made laptops cheaper to buy, and offer better | | | | programs whereas netbooks are designed for web |
| value for money. | | | | browsing. |
| Now cheap portable computing has been condensed | | | | - Storage devices: Netbooks do not have an optical |
| even further into a range of devices known as | | | | storage device such as CD or DVD, although they can |
| netbooks, which cost significantly less than laptops and | | | | be added as separate external devices via USB. |
| are the perfect devices for those who wish to access | | | | However, like laptops netbooks are fitted with devices |
| the web, especially when while on the move. | | | | that support wireless networking and can be easily |
| Netbooks had their origin in a device designed to be | | | | used with a 3G broadband dongle in addition to |
| more powerful and bigger than a PDA, but also smaller | | | | wireless routers, making them the ideal low-cost option |
| than a laptop. The term 'netbook' was coined in 2007 | | | | for accessing the internet. Of course, if you are looking |
| when ASUS launched their low-cost Eee PC netbook, | | | | for a portable on which you can develop complex |
| which proved a phenomenal success and forced the | | | | spreadsheets or wish to use programs that are heavy |
| major PC manufacturers to sit up and take notice. By | | | | on processing power such as CAD graphic design |
| the end of 2008 most major manufacturers were | | | | then a netbook is not a viable option. Instead, you |
| producing their own netbooks, and between them | | | | should be looking at a top-end laptop with superior |
| shifted 11.4million units worldwide. | | | | processing power and a large amount of storage |
| One major reason for netbook success is that they | | | | capacity. |
| are significantly cheaper than laptops without losing too | | | | Netbooks are ideal for school students or those who |
| much functionality. Another reason is the wide | | | | need to access the web for social networking, e-mails |
| availability of wireless internet connection allowing | | | | and other medium or light usage. Indeed, they are a |
| owners of the devices to access the web while on | | | | convenient alternative to purchasing an expensive |
| the move. | | | | laptop on which many of the features offered would |
| In terms of differences between netbooks and laptops | | | | be under-utilised. |
| the major ones are: | | | | |