Difference Between a Netbook and a Notebook / Laptop
July 18, 2009 by admin
Filed under Netbook Buying Guide
Netbooks are primarily used for surfing the web and running light applications, while laptops can run more heavy duty applications and tackle more challenging programs.
Netbooks typically run either Windows XP or Linux operating systems rather than more resource-intensive operating systems like Windows Vista. However the latest Windows 7 operating system released from Microsoft has seen some promising features that have been shown to run very well on the newer generation of Netbooks.
Netbooks range in screen size from below 5 inches to over 13, typically weigh 2 to 3 pounds and are often significantly cheaper than general purpose laptops, you can find a decent Netbook less than $300 on the market.
To reduce the size and weight, all the consumer level Netbooks do not come with internal CD or DVD drives, no upgrade path and the following maximum memory limits:
For Linux based Netbooks: 512 MBs
For XP based Netbook: 1 GB (some rare exceptions have 1.5 GBs)
The newer high-end Netbooks that come with more but they are generally cost more than laptops.
Most Netbooks come with hard drives of 80 GB to 160 GB.
Some Netbook models use SSD – Solid State Drive, with no moving parts , it is good when you take the Netbook for travel, but these are smaller in GBs and higher in cost.
Laptops are meant as desktop replacements, are not so portable because of that but can do much more, have bigger internal hard drives, bigger screens (from 15.6″ to 18″ at the moment), bigger memory (RAM), a CD/DVD/BlueRay drive or burner and some provision for upgrade depending on manufacturer.
Laptops are becoming more affordable comparing with traditional desktop PCs for what they offer !
In essence, Netbooks are just smaller, which means slower processors and less storage and RAM. If your main purpose is to check email, surf Internet, and run some light weight applications, Netbook is a good choose for its low price and good performance. Don’t forget, it deliver super portability that neither Laptop nor PC can compete.