Netbook Vs. Smartphone
It's amazing how potent phones have become, so much that now we have to ask the question, Netbook Vs. Smartphone. It's a decision that needs to be made and differences that can make or break a purchase. Although phones are coming up on being just as powerful as netbook, it's important to realize that their use is still limited, mainly by their size.
A smartphone will provide you with basic internet access, email, texting, chat, and other applications that are designed specifically for a phone. Although useful, it's not nearly as versatile as a netbook, considering it's size limitations. There has yet to be a phone keypad designed to be as comfortable and useful as a larger keyboard. Also, there is only so much information you can fit on a screen small enough to fit in your side pocket or coin purse.
A netbook will provide you with almost everything a smartphone can, less the exclusive apps, only on a larger scale. Although not as big as a laptop, a netbook will have a huge benefit over smartphones because of it's screen and keyboard size. This allows for easier viewing, more multi-tasking, and a more comfortable user experience if in a stationary position.
Easier To Lose
I don't know about you, but having an expensive smart phone instead of a netbook might just spell LOST for me. Not that I'm especially clumsy or forgetful, but it's a lot easier to drop a smart phone out of your pocket and not know it than a larger netbook. Consider it safer to use a netbook, instead of a smart phone, at least for your documents and files you don't want to lose.
Long Term Cost
Once you purchase a netbook, you are able to use it's features and connect to the internet. However, if you purchase a smart phone, then you must pay a monthly fee to remain connected. Offline features are still enabled, but are severely crippled. Have a netbook? Simply connect to the nearest wifi, no monthly subscription required.
So, even if you get a good cheap deal on a smart phone, expect to pay more in the long run.
Why would you buy a smartphone instead of a netbook?
Read MoreIt’s Easy To Get Confused About Netbooks
So I've been doing a little searching online for a new laptop and I can see how easy it is to get confused over what the difference is between a netbook and laptop. I simply searched Google Shopping for the keyword 'Laptop' and the first 5 results were all netbooks, at least how this site would rank them. Small screen, less than 12", only internal hard drive and no dvd drives, yet labeled as a laptops.
For example, the number one item in the search results was for the HP MINI 210-1010NR. Everything about this portable computer screams netbook, yet comes up labeled as a laptop. It can be misleading to those looking for more information and trying to decide which portable PC would be right for them. The only reason I can see this computer being listed under laptop is that it does come with the starter version of Windows 7. Usually a netbook will be limited to an open distribution OS like Linux or runs an older version of Windows XP.
It's not until the 4th result do we see an actual laptop listed within the sales items, which is the Dell Latitude, a very popular brand and model. It checks in with a 15" screen, big processor, lots of ram, graphics card, and a price to match. It's obvious this thing is built to handle more than your standard web browsing, emailing, and iTunes. That's what sets the laptop apart, its built for multi-tasking and capable of doing whatever your desktop is. While the Latitude will happily run a program like Adobe Photoshop, don't expect the netbook above to do the same, further more the Dell Latitude comes equipped with a DVD drive.
Lastly, I'm very surprised to find that a MacBook is listed in the number 5 search result for the keyword 'Laptop'. This 17" screen monster, packed with a powerful processor, lots of goodies, costs more than twice the loaded Dell Latitude. Another concept that can confuse new portable PC buyers is the fact that Apple does not include a familiar operating system. Under typical installations you cannot and should not try to run any type of Windows program on a MacBook. So, if you are looking for familiarity, stick with a netbook running XP or a laptop with the all new Windows 7.
Don't be shy about asking questions, deciding which type of product is right for you can be difficult. This problem is compounded by the most popular search engine in the world confusing the two items for you as well.
Laptop Search on Google Shopping
10.2″ Netbook Carrying Case
Netbooks are the ultimate in portable computers, but you need a quality carrying case to protect your investment. There are a lot of options when buying a netbook carrying case, which range greatly in price. However, for as little as $20 you can buy a quality carrying case that will be functional and stylish.
Targus provides a product built to carry a 10.2" Netbook and all the extra goodies like charge cables, USB cords, and even slots for paper work. Also, accessible from it's zip down flap you can store your pens, flash cards, and even a spot for your PDA.
Prices range from as little as $20 new at Amazon.com to $30 at places like the Dell marketplace. It pays to shop around, because you'll be getting the same carrying case, no matter where you buy it.
Complete with carrying handle and shoulder strap, you'll be prepared to bring your netbook with you wherever your travels take you.
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TARGUS TSS11201US CRAVE NETBOOK CARRYING CASE 102 M |  |
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US $29.11 | 5d 13h 44m |
Laptop Cooling Pads, How To Fix A Hot Lap
Mobile computers tend to produce a lot of heat, especially when they are laying directly on your lap. Thankfully, there are laptop accessories available to lower the heat and provide a nice cool surface for your laptop to set on, when held on your lap. Most commonly known as a laptop cooling pad, come in as many different options as a laptop.
Some of the more popular brands of cooling pads are made by Logitech, which score high in consumer reviews. They are notable because of their sleek designs, comfort, and ability to cool down your lap when working for extended periods of time with your laptop.
A laptop cooling pad works by creating a flow of air between the laptop computer and your legs or table. Built into the pad are small fans, which get their power from the USB port on the laptop. The extra fans and design of the cooling pad help push the heat out and pull cool air in. Not only does this create a more comfortable working space, but can also make your laptop last longer.
The hotter the components of your laptop become, the more wear the processor and motherboard are exposed to. This wear will shorten the life span of your laptop's components, which usually end with replacing the entire computer. By purchasing a laptop cooling pad you are both creating a cooler lap and lengthening the life of your laptop investment.
Read MoreWhy Buy A Laptop?
When making a choice for your computing needs, there are options, such as a netbook, a desktop, or a laptop. Each computer has many similar and positive features. The laptop is the best of both worlds, giving you full computing capabilities as well as convenience. Cost is a consideration, but getting what you truly need from a device is the most important consideration.
Whether you work from home, or just need to use your computer for various personal needs, it is advantageous to have the ability to take your computer with you. Sometimes it is necessary to look up items when you are on the go, and with an internet card, that becomes an easy task to accomplish. A laptop enables you to perform a search, work on a project, or just check your email in a convenient manner, even while attending your child’s soccer game.
Sometimes, when there is just too much going on at home, it is good to be able to accomplish work at a separate location. This is where the laptop becomes a versatile tool, when you can take it to any relatively quiet location and get to work. If you have an appointment, and know you will have to wait in the lobby, take your laptop so time will not be wasted. A desktop would not be convenient in many scenarios.
If something goes wrong with your computer, a laptop can easily be transported to have it fixed. Ease of transport is key, particularly if travel is in your future. Keep in touch with people and on top of projects when out of town or on assignment.
The laptop computer can provide typical storage, and yet takes up so much less space than a desktop. It can be connected to a monitor to ease stress on the eyes during longer projects. The keyboard size is comparable to a traditional desktop computer, and so is comfortable ergonomically speaking. A netbook may be more convenient to carry around, but is not nearly as easy to use.
Many companies provide laptops to their employees for a reason. Higher and more versatile productivity are key points to consider when working and living in today’s economy. The extra productivity you experience will more than pay for the slight extra expense between the laptop and the desktop computer.
Laptops can access wireless from a variety of locations. It is simply more convenient and important to have a versatile tool which suits all your needs.