To understand the difference between a netbook vs laptop, you have to know exactly what each one is capable of. Netbooks vs laptops are essentially different in terms of size. Netbooks are available with screens between 8 to 10 inches, while laptops are the bigger versions, averaging 14 to 15 inches in screen size. However, that is not all there is to know when comparing a netbook versus laptop. Rather, screen size is just the easiest way for you to spot if you are looking at a netbook or a laptop. The real difference comes out when you compare what’s inside a netbook vs laptop.
So what is a netbook compared to a laptop?
Netbooks are specialized computer systems made to be compact in size, low cost, and yet run for a very long time. And in order to achieve these, manufacturers had to compromise on a number of things. For instance, if you do a netbook vs laptop comparison, you’ll see that netbooks are fitted with processors with fewer cores than what laptops could accommodate. Fewer cores mean simpler processors, and simpler processors are capable only of doing simple tasks. As such, you can’t expect your netbook to be the ultimate multitasking machine, although they are more than capable of handling several tasks at once. How well a netbook multitasks also depends on the kinds of tasks and programs being utilized simultaneously. If you’re just surfing the internet while listening to music and have a couple of word documents open, then you should be fine. However, if you’re looking to use a netbook for more taxing tasks like rendering video, you’ll be better off turning to a laptop for that. Netbooks are considerably smaller in form factor so optical drives are not included. There’s just no space for one, anyway. As such, if you want to use CDs or DVDs, you’re going to have to rely on an external optical drive. For what its worth, netbooks are usually fitted with at least three USB ports to make sure for all sorts of extensions you might need. The problem though with having a lot of other devices connected to your netbook, it defeats the benefit of mobility that your netbook offers you. If you require so many things and yet have to be on the go, then might as well get you a laptop. Not only will it be handier to carry because you just have one device for all your needs, it will also be considerably lighter to lug around so you can truly stay connected wherever you go, whether its for work or play.
In simpler terms, what’s the difference between a netbook and a laptop? Just think that a netbook is a small laptop. And because it is the smaller version, you can expect that it will also function at a lesser capacity. A netbook vs laptop comparison will give you a clear idea as to what kinds of pros and cons each one has. However, these pros and cons will only have meaning if you already have a clear idea of what your needs are. Different people have different needs so it’s not surprising that people will be split on the topic of netbook vs laptop. Still, you would do well to take note of what works for other people because that at least will tell you if a netbook or laptop is working as it should. Use other people’s experiences to guide you in choosing the right machine for you. As with a lot of devices, a netbook or laptop will be an extension of yourself so you really have to take time in understanding a netbook vs laptop comparison and choosing what will work best for you.