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, email, 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.