Netbooks are mini laptop computers designed specifically for basic applications like surfing the web, reading e-mails, word processing, and watching internet videos. These small compact laptops are not as powerful in terms of functionality as laptop computers. Traditional laptops use faster processors then Netbooks and therefore, have more computing capabilities. You can run advanced programs and heavy applications on laptop computers that would cripple most Netbooks. However, Netbooks trade these capabilities for several interesting features that are persuading more and more users to abandon the traditional brief-case sized laptop.
Netbooks have a compact form factor of seven to ten inches, which results in unmatched portability. This drastic decrease in size when compared to traditional laptops is mostly due to the fact that most Netbooks dont have optical CD/DVD drives. Netbooks also utilize less complex hardware components that produce lower power consumption, longer battery life, and most importantly save you significant amounts of money when compared to laptop computers.
Just because Netbook hardware tends to be less complex or not as powerful doesnt mean that its old or boring technology. Several manufacturers have started using solid state storage in their Netbooks as opposed to traditional hard drives. These solid state drives work in a similar fashion as a memory card for your phone or camera in that they have no moving parts. This produces several advantages over traditional hard drives. Since there are no moving parts they are harder to break and tend to be much more rugged than traditional hard drives. When used as the primary storage in a Netbook these drives also offer much faster boot times making your computer to turn on almost instantly.
These hardware tradeoffs are not necessarily a bad thing. It is important to understand that Netbooks are engineered for different purposes than laptops. Laptops are built to be mini desktops that allow you all the function of a desktop in a portable unit. Most laptops can handle graphics intensive tasks such as video editing or gaming that Netbooks arent intended for. However, the freedom Netbooks offer users is attracting more and more traditional laptop customers interested in portability and more affordable pricing.
