About Netbooks

A relatively new phenomenom in the computer/laptop world, netbooks are small laptops primarily aimed at surfing the internet. People who travel often are one of the biggest consumers of netbooks because they are light to carry to class, small enough to keep notes on, and affordable for even the tightest budget.

A stripped down version of Linux was available in a lot of the early netbooks but the familiarity of Windows XP helped to outsell the linux models, nearly all the new models come with XP now. Newer models are now coming pre-installed with Windows 7 starter, however be aware of the limitations of 7 starter, there is restrictions such as the inability to change wallpaper, you can however purchase a upgrade in addition to the pre-installed Windows 7 starter to upgrade it to home or professional.

Netbooks are essentially the same hardware; Typically powered by a Intel Atom (N270 or N280) processor, a cheap 10.2″ LCD monitor (1024×600 resolution) and coming with 1GB of RAM upgradeable to 2GB with 160GB of hard drive space. So the design is what matters most surprisingly, pick one you like the look of!

One of the main design aspects is the keyboard. Being too small to fit a full size keyboard all netbooks come with a non-standard size varying between 87% and 95% size, the closer to the original size, the more comfortable it will be. The key layout is often compromised for this reason too, specifically check the right hand side where the shift and return key is, however most people adapt to their chosen netbook quickly.

The other compromise is the trackpad. These can be as small as 1″ x 2″ with tiny buttons, so make sure you get something you can live with.

The lack of disc drive is made up with typically 3 USB ports and a built in card reader, so an external CD/DVD/Blu-Ray player can be used, or a bigger hard drive if you find the typical 160GB limiting.

With these issues coming to light, netbook manufacturers have better designed keyboards and larger more innovative trackpads on newer models, however check the reviews on Amazon on what previous owners say to see if it applies to you.

Nearly all netbooks are available in different colors listed on this website. Any more questions, feel free to send them our way using the contact form at the bottom of every page.