Netbooks: a summary


A netbook is a small device designed for the on-the-go, Internet-centric lifestyle. Its size and ultra-light weight make it perfect for travel, and it's a great companion device for your primary PC. With built-in Wi-Fi, a netbook keeps you connected anywhere there's a wireless connection. You can check e-mail, surf the web, view on-line photos and videos, and access social media sites.

While a netbook looks like a laptop, it usually uses a low power processor, does not come with a built-in optical drive, and supports fewer memory and hard drive options. We do not recommend netbooks for demanding tasks such as content creation, graphics intensive gaming, or video editing.

If a netbook doesn't meet your needs, consider an ultra-portable laptop like our TouchSmart tm2t, Pavilion dm4t, or a value-priced laptop such as the Compaq Presario CQ62Z or HP G42t.
 

  Netbook Notebook
Size Small (fits in a purse) Medium to large (fits in a backpack)
Weight Under 3lbs. 5 to 8 lb.
Processor Intel Atom (single core) Most support dual core
OS Windows XP Home Edition or Windows 7 Starter Windows 7 Premium
Memory Up to 1GB 2GB to 8GB
Hard drive Up to 250GB 250GB to 1TB
Internal optical drive None Included


1. Internet access required, not included.
2. Wireless access point and Internet service required, not included. Availability of public wireless access points is limited.