What are Netbooks?

A netbook is basically a scaled-down computer specialized for mobile Internet access. They usually have 10-inch screens with keyboards and touchpads to match. They are extremely small and lightweight and also cheap – a high-end netbook can cost about as much as a low-end notebook or tablet.

What can netbooks do?

Netbooks are best for casual web browsing, social gaming, and light word processing. Larger photo and video files don’t handle quite as well. Windows-based netbooks can play simple Windows games too, but you should check newer titles to see if they work on your netbook.

How do netbooks compare to notebooks?

On the upside, a netbook is highly convenient, portable and light. Add in optional accessories like a compact travel mouse and a 3G wireless modem and you’ve got Internet access wherever you go.

How do netbooks compare to tablets?

Netbooks rarely have touchscreens, and may seem slightly slower than tablets since most netbooks run an operating system designed for desktops. On the other hand, netbooks have built-in keyboards and memory card readers, and you can use a touchpad or mouse to browse the web on them.

What apps can a netbook run?

Netbooks that run Windows can run basic apps like Microsoft Office. Intel AppUp™ is an online store for Windows netbook apps. Ubuntu has its Software Centre and Google’s Chrome Webstore features apps that run on netbooks using their Chrome browser. Being smaller, lighter and more energy efficient than the more powerful notebooks, netbooks make great devices for checking email, surfing the web or shopping online away from your desktop PC.

Should I use a netbook as my main computer?

That’s something you’ll have to decide for yourself based on your needs. Ultimately, netbooks are designed for portability and not to be "workhorse" machines.

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