The Netbook Computer, Perfect Portability for Students
Netbooks can be found in coffee shops, bookstores, and in the classroom. It seems the compact netbook computer has been destined to become exceptionally popular overnight.
What Exactly Is A Netbook Computer?
Netbook computers generally have screens of 10 to 12 inches, feature Windows or Linux operating systems, and generally sell for well under $400. As the name implies, the netbook’s main function is to keep you readily connected to the net – anywhere and anytime.
Asus created one of the first line of netbook computers when it introduced the ASUS Eee PC in the fall of 2007. However, the popularity of netbooks exploded when we saw the huge demand for these unique portable computers. There are now many computer companies such as HP, Dell, Toshiba, Lenovo… all manufacturing these small portable laptops. So much so, that netbook computers have become the fastest growing part of the notebook computer industry.
Why is there so much buzz over the compact netbook computer? Maybe the answer can be found in our ever constant need for increased mobility. We want a portable computer that will help us to stay connected to the Web and yet be compact and lightweight enough to be carried around all day. A really ultra-portable computer that gives us handy access to the web.
Another question of interest: why do netbook computers make good student notebooks? The following are a few points to consider:
Size
Netbook computers are small with 10 to 12 inch screens or less, which make them suitable for students. Plus, they are commonly very lightweight — around 2 or 3 pounds. They are compact enough to pop into your school bag, purse or backpack, and small enough to carry around all day comfortably.
Convenience
The netbook is small, portable, and compact. A good portable computer that we can use to stay connected to the internet and friends. Connectability is one of the main features — you are connected to the net any time you want.
Sturdiness
Most netbooks are designed to be sturdy and tough. They can take a few hard knocks and still keep on functioning. Perfect for the student on the run.
Battery Life
Because of their compact size, you will usually get greater battery life than with a standard sized notebook. This is important to the student since they tend to stay busy with classes, and don’t always get a chance to recharge the battery. Long lasting battery life makes the netbook computer the ideal student laptop.
Performance
Although small, netbooks still have some pretty impressive specifications. Many now come with at least 1 Gig of RAM and super fast processors. Many use Windows XP and newer models debuting this year with the Nvidia’s Ion platform may have Vista or Windows 7.
Storage
While storage on netbook computers is constantly increasing, it is still not really near the kind of storage you will find on a regular sized notebook. Generally, most netbooks have around 30 or 60gb hard drives which should be enough for most student’s needs. Many newer netbooks have 160gb of storage.
Price
Maybe the main reason netbooks make the wonderful student laptops is the affordable price. Students are commonly on a very limited budget and the low price-tag is a ideal fit. Many perfectly adequate machines are now priced in the $300 to $450 range — while many good ones go for well under $300. In addition, prices are steadily dropping so almost any student can now afford a netbook.
As you may have noticed, the netbook computer has many features to make it a wonderful student laptop: compact size, great portability, exceptional connections, very sturdy, long battery life, excellent performance, adequate storage and most of all, affordable pricing almost any student can afford. Overall, netbook computers are well suited for the busy student on the go.