So you are thinking about buying a non-desktop computer. There are many different options, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Before, there were only desktops and laptops, but now, there are netbooks and portable computers as well. Which is the right one for you? It depends on what you need it for. Here is a brief summary of each type of non-desktop computer.
Netbooks
Netbooks represent the bare-bones computing experience. They are designed to be space and energy efficient while providing the minimum of what people expect a computer to be able to do. They monitor is usually around seven to ten inches and the processors are not very fast. The key word to associate with netbooks is ‘minimal’. They usually feature a small hard drive, wireless networking capabilities, keyboard, mouse and monitor. They will allow you to go on the internet and type and that is just about it. The tradeoff for these limitations is that they are cheap, some costing as little as $300. The price, size and internet capabilities make netbooks ideal for people who are traveling and just want to check their email from time to time. If computers were cars, netbooks would be the economy cars, like a Toyota Yaris or a Nissan Versa. They will get you where you need to go, but aren’t as fast, comfortable or stylish as other cars.
Summary:
Pros: Inexpensive; will get you on the internet; simple; small size; extremely portable.
Cons: Very limited functionality; no CD or DVD drive.
Example: Asus EEE PC.
Laptops
If the computers on this list were cars, laptops would midsize family cars to less expensive luxury cars. These offer most of the functionality of a desktop in something you can comfortably rest on your lap: hence the name ‘laptop’. Laptop computers are an excellent choice for most consumer’s computing needs. They feature larger monitors and significantly better speed than netbooks. Unlike netbooks, these could easily be used to play games. Also, if you do a lot of typing, the keyboard of a laptop is usually of a good size to type on; netbook keyboards can be somewhat cramped. Laptops range from thirteen inch to seventeen inch and range in price from $500 to $2500.
Summary:
Pros: Near full desktop capabilities; larger monitors; fit comfortably on your lap; portable
Cons: Not as convenient as a netbook; not as powerful as a portable computer.
Examples: Dell Inspiron series; Apple Macbook
Portable Computers
Portable computers could be considered a subset of laptops, but I count them separately. They are not called laptops because it is not comfortable or practical to put them on your lap. In short, these are as powerful or more powerful than most desktops, but can be moved from place to place. They are generally too heavy and run too hot to operate while on your lap. They can be up to seventeen inch. These are essentially desktops that you can move.
Summary:
Pros: Full desktop functionality; speed; power; large screens
Cons: Price; not as easily mobile as other choices.
Examples: Alienware m17x.
Closing Remarks:
If you are simply looking to save space, Apple offers a product called the Mac Mini, which is a two inch by six inch square desktop or the iMac, which integrates the monitor with the tower. Mac is an all-around good choice for personal computing: a summary of the pros and cons of Mac ownership can be found here and an overview of the features of the new Mac laptop, the Macbook Pro can be found here.
