8.9 Netbook Review

Netbook computers are generally the less powerful version of laptop computers. It is ideal for internet surfing, email, word processing, research, and other not so resource hungry applications. There are several brands to choose from offering different features so if you can’t decide which one to buy, this article will help you choose the right Netbook computer for you.

1. Keyboard. Try using the keyboards of different brands to get a feel of their key spacing. Netbooks are very small and so are the keys so it is very important that you will be able to use the keyboard comfortably. If you can’t touch type on it because your fingers are too fat for the key spacing, then that is not the right one for you. Be sure to look at non-standard key placements too as it may be difficult to use it if you have to find each key every time you type.
2. Processor. Make sure that the processor is the fastest of its series. Almost all the Netbooks today are using Intel Atom processors and the N series is superior to the Z series.
3. Operating System. Check that the operating system of the Netbook is not resource intensive like Windows Vista. Windows XP or Linux are good options as far as speed and power consumption. Between the two, Windows XP is a better choice since it is widely used, compatible to most application, and easy to use. Unless you are familiar with Linux environment, go with Windows XP.
4. Battery. Consider getting extended battery if you are always on the go. The normal battery life lasts up to 2 hours while the extended lasts up to 4 hours. Standard Netbooks usually ships with 3-cell standard battery but you may want to upgrade that to 6-cell extended battery. Keep in mind that extended battery are heavier than standard battery.
5. Memory. No matter what kind of computer you use, memory (RAM) always plays an important role in its overall performance. The standard memory of Netbooks is 1GB but it is recommended to upgrade it to 2GB. When it comes to memory (RAM), more is better.
6. Storage. Determine the type of storage device used on the Netbook that you want to buy. The type of storage device affects the battery life and cost significantly. For example, HDD or Hard Disk drive like what regular laptops use has spinning discs inside and is measured in rpm (4200rpm or 5400rpm). Due to these moving parts, it consumes battery power. On the other hand, an SDD or Solid State drive is faster, more reliable, and prolongs battery life but they come in smaller capacity compared to HDD. Higher capacities are usually more expensive. These are the things that you need to weigh when it comes to storage.
7. LCD. Netbooks come in different display sizes from 7″, 8.9″, 10″, to 12″. All you need to consider is the type of application you will normally use with your Netbook. It is important that you can see the whole window without adjusting them all the time. The 10″ Netbook is fast becoming the standard size so if you can’t decide, just go for the 10″.
8. Connectivity. Make sure that the Wi-Fi is compatible with at least “b” or “g” standards. Having a Bluetooth capability is a great feature which will allow you to share files between other Bluetooth mobile devices like cell phone, PDA, or laptop computers. Webcam should come as a standard feature to most Netbook computers. USB connectivity is also very important since most peripherals use this port to connect. Built-in memory card reader is a very useful feature but you can always get one of those multi-card reader as an add-on device to your Netbook.