Finding the Best Netbook PC For You

A netbook essentially is a small notebook computer used for Internet access, e-mail, news tracking, and social networking. These ultra-portable PCs weigh in at only two to three pounds; much lighter than the five to eight pounds of an average-sized notebook. Of course, a small form equates to smaller displays, from seven to 10 inches diagonal. However, some higher-end netbooks are hitting the market with slightly larger screens, higher screen resolution, and improved graphics capability. It's also worth noting, netbook keyboards are slightly smaller and some keys, like Home, Page Down, etc., are in non-standard places compared to a full-sized notebook keyboard.

There are plenty of popular netbooks to choose from including Acer, ASUS, e-Machines, HP, and Toshiba. The netbook brain is an energy-efficient CPU. Many netbooks are sporting the Intel Atom processor, or AMD Neo designed specifically for ultra-mobile, low-power hardware, like netbooks and smartphones.

To reduce power consumption and weight, most of these mini laptops use solid state drives, or SSDs. These are large, flash memory drives, like USB flash drives, that have no moving parts. Hard drives come in a range of sizes.

All netbooks have built-in wireless 802.11 networking to keep you connected wherever there's access. In addition to 802.11b/g, which is available everywhere, some models have 802.11n, the new, faster standard. Another benefit of these portable mini notebooks is price. They are much less expensive than standard notebooks.

Be aware, netbooks may or may not come with popular operating systems such as Windows or OS X. They are best suited to run web-based applications, meaning there's no need to run a power-hungry program like Microsoft Office when you can do many of the same things with Google Apps.

Because they are so portable, netbooks are great around the house as an untethered companion to a desktop computer. With a netbook, you can have recipes in the kitchen, browse the Internet while watching TV, or check your e-mail on the back deck. Netbooks also are a good first computer for kids once they outgrow toy laptops.

Netbooks go by a lot of names, but whatever you call them, a low-price netbook computer, a low-cost mini notebook, an inexpensive ultra portable, or cheap mini laptop, we've got a netbook to suit your lifestyle and your budget. Don't forget we've got plenty of portable PC accessories like netbook cases and netbook backpacks to keep your electronics and you on the go in style.