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How to Buy the Best Netbook for You

garycyim | Feb 8, 2010 |

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Are you thinking about buying a netbook? With an attractive price ranging from only $250 to $500, it may seem tempting to get one. It was only a couple of years ago when the cheapest laptop was at least $1,000.

However, there are a few things you should consider before getting one.

First, is a netbook right for you?

Netbooks usually have screens that are 10 to 12 inches in size. Also, the keyboard is smaller than the full-sized one you may be used to.

The best thing you can do is visit an electronics store and try one out. See if you can type comfortably and if the screen is large enough. You may need to scroll down and from side to side to view a Web page.

What are the best uses for a netbook?

Surfing the Internet
Reading and replying to e-mails
Checking out Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites
Making phone and video calls over the Internet using programs such as Skype (netbooks usually include a built-in microphone and video camera)
Light word processing

If you travel a lot, netbooks are great for taking along on a trip since they are much lighter and smaller than a traditional laptop.

You should also check the battery life for netbooks. This can range from only a couple of hours up to eight hours.

What should a netbook not be used for?

Watching full-screen video such as Hulu
Video editing (netbooks have a less powerful processor than those found in desktop PCs)
Extended periods of typing (due to the small keyboard)

What else should you know about netbooks?

To save space and weight, netbooks do not include an internal CD/DVD drive. This means that if you want to access files or install a program from a disc, you will need to copy the files to either an USB "thumb" drive or compact card.

Or, you can also use an external CD/DVD drive that can be connected via an USB cable to the netbook.

Here are some top-rated netbooks:

Acer Aspire One
ASUS Eee 1005HA
HP Mini 5101
Lenovo IdeaPad S12
Toshiba NB205-310

Getting a netbook can be a great choice for many people. They are usually best as a second computer that can be used when out and about as well as bringing along on a trip.