Buying a Netbook Computer Phil Goff, Branch 116 November 19, 2009

What is a NetBook? Netbooks (v. Laptops or Notebooks) have a screen size of 12” or less. The most common size for a Netbook is a 10” screen. Netbooks are fully functional computers and can be purchased with cell phone technology or Wifi. (Cell phone technology requires a contract.)

Why So Popular? Netbooks are cheaper than laptops (average price is $300-$400) They are ultraportable and can be used almost everywhere They have a battery life of ~6 hours. They are perfect for the most common usages, , internet surfing, word processing, etc.

Basic Features Netbooks have a fully functional Operating System, i.e. XP, Windows 7, etc. They have several USB ports, VGA for graphics and Audio. They have a built in webcam and microphone. Some have solid state drives, but most have a conventional 160 GB drive.

What Are They Missing? They do not have a CD/DVD reader/writer. You will probably want to buy an external one. They come with 1GB or 2GB Ram. They may be upgradeable to 4GB. Most use the Intel Atom processor N270 or N280. It runs at 1.66GHz and is very low energy usage. None have a fast processor.

Basic NetBook Computer $291 w/free shipping at Newegg.com

High End NetBook $409 w/free shipping at Newegg.com

Closing Comments NetBooks are meant for portability. If you don’t take it outside the house, you’ll probably prefer a Laptop. All major manufactures make NetBooks – Dell, HP, Gateway, etc. They are the hottest thing going right now. Look at Fry’s. They make a great Christmas present.