BEFORE BUYING A NETBOOK

Netbooks have nearly identical components. Almost all of them run on a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor or a VIA Nano processor with integrated Intel graphics.

Netbooks are much cheaper than conventional laptops. But before you buy one you need to be aware of its limitations. Netbooks are much slower than the average 14 inch or 15 inch notebooks. Because of their low-end configurations, they will run better with Linux or Windows XP than the more demanding Vista.

Most netbooks are still capable of handling use around the house. For instance, you can easily surf the web and work on Office applications. On the other hand, you may have problems running games or decoding HD video.

Screen Size
Netbooks have smaller displays. The standard netbook display measures 9 or 10 inches. Some manufacturers have started offering even bigger displays.

Hard Drive or SSD
Solid State Drives are sometimes used on netbooks. But remember that the SSD variants used on netbooks are much slower and cheaper than the high-end SSDs used in expensive laptops. A conventional hard drive is still the best storage option for a netbook.

Linux or Windows
Netbooks run better with Linux than Windows XP. Linux also costs much less and is more secure than Windows.

RAM
Most netbooks come with 1GB of RAM. Some manufacturers offer more, but the 1GB RAM is usually sufficient for meeting the basic purpose of a netbook.

THINGS YOU NEED TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT BEFORE BUYING A LAPTOP

Before you buy a laptop you need to evaluate the tasks you perform and compare them with the features offered by the laptop to make sure that you get the right machine. So what are the factors you need to take into account?

Size and Weight
Mobile workers need a laptop that is thin and portable. Best choices are ultraportable and thin and light laptops. Desktop replacement laptops provide many features useful to mobile professionals, but they are too heavy.

Connectivity
Mobile workers need a laptop that provides multiple connection options. So the laptop you choose should have the necessary networking capabilities.

Batteries
If you travel a lot, you will need a laptop that has a long battery life. Some laptops will also allow you to add an extra battery. You may also want to consider how long does it take to recharge your laptop batteries.

Security Features
Laptops are a prime target for theft when you travel. Many higher-end laptops come with sophisticated security options. They may be costlier than conventional laptops, but the additional security options will save you both money and trouble.

Specifications
Don’t buy a laptop just looking at the size or price tag. You may have bought the thinnest laptop possible, but if it doesn’t have sufficient processor speed or RAM you will not be able to carry out your job. The size of the keyboards and monitors are also important.


Upgrades
Technology is constantly changing. You should be able to upgrade your laptop when you want to. Avoid buying laptops that have onboard components: You will probably not be able to upgrade them.