| Netbooks: Extreme Value and Portability |
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| Computers - Computers |
| Written by Jen Peterson |
| Monday, 09 March 2009 09:30 |
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A quick check of the top five best selling laptop or notebook computers at Amazon.com reveals that all five spots are currently (as of February 10, 2009) held by netbooks. Netbooks seem to have struck a chord with value conscious shoppers. Clearly, netbooks are the hottest trend in laptop computing at this time.
A quick check of the top five best selling laptop or notebook computers at Amazon.com reveals that all five spots are currently (as of February 10, 2009) held by netbooks. Netbooks seem to have struck a chord with value conscious shoppers. Clearly, netbooks are the hottest trend in laptop computing at this time. Perhaps you are considering buying a netbook and would like to know more about them. Or maybe you are curious as to why they have become such a major hit with consumers. The following is a brief overview of netbooks and a discussion of the factors that have led to their popularity. Netbook computers are essentially mini laptops. They are built to be easy to use and taken anywhere. The display and keyboard are smaller than those of a typical notebook computer. They are underpowered in terms of processor speed and memory and thus cannot run applications requiring a lot of resources. Netbooks will usually come with Linux or Windows XP installed. Prices for netbook computers run from roughly $350 to about $500 at this time. Top selling netbooks presently include models from Acer, Asus and Samsung. Most computer makers have, however, incorporated a netbook or a line of netbooks to their offerings in order to meet the swelling consumer demand. While netbooks lack the computing power to run resource intensive applications directly on the netbook, WiFi capability is a signature feature. This makes it quite possible to stay connected via email, use Internet based software and perform most standard computing operations albeit using a smaller display screen and keyboard. Netbooks are no replacement, however, for desktops or even most traditional laptops. The popularity of netbook computers stems from their portability and affordability. Computer users wanting an inexpensive laptop that traveled well and was capable of fulfilling their basic needs were a segment of the market that had traditionally been underserved. Netbooks resonate with the user who does not need the latest bells and whistles or the fastest processor and does not want to have to pay for such. Computer components are constantly in a state of getting faster, more powerful and often smaller. As the technology continues to evolve, consumers may soon see netbooks evolve as well. Future netbook computers may come equipped with more power and more robust features. Presently, netbooks provide an alternative for laptop buyers looking to save money and have mobile access to several useful features. Presently, netbook users are forced to trade performance and functionality for cost and convenience. The success of netbooks indicates, however, that consumers are more than willing to make this tradeoff. Price and ease of use are likely always going to be a key factor in the purchasing decisions of a large number of potential laptop buyers. It stands to reason that while their popularity may dip, a strong market consisting of those with less performance requirements and who aren't willing to pay for features they don't need should continue to develop. About the Author: Jen Peterson is always on the go and takes her laptop everywhere. Her passion for notebook computers led to the creation of her website devoted to pink laptops. If you have ever wondered where to find pink acer laptops, Jen surely knows so please stop by. |