Netbooks have absolutely taken the online world by storm. More and more users are deciding to sell their heavy and cumbersome laptops in exchange for a lightweight, easy to carry netbook. Some of them are so small they nearly fit into your handbag. While they might be a little on the small side for everyday tasks, they certainly can’t be beat for value and usability.
Ever since I first laid eyes on a white Asus netbook earlier this year, I fell in love with the concept of using a smaller laptop in exchange for fuss-free travel. Not only that, but my netbook has taught me that I don’t need to keep all the digital clutter stored on my computer. Instead I keep the barest of applications.
Since I already spent the best part of one week looking and studying these little machines, I figured you might also like to get a lowdown on what’s available in the market right now. Just don’t blame me if you become a netbook addict as well.
- Acer
According to a recent report by Forbes, Acer leads the netbook market with their stylish and powerful little gems. They are packed with everything you would want to work with while on the go. Ideal for business professional stuck in a commute everyday and digital nomads, these little machines come with 8.9” full color screens, compact and stylish design, integrated webcam, USB ports, wireless inbuilt software and so much more. The Acer One netbook is available with a 4GB/8GB HDD and retail from $243-$398.
- Asus
When Asus released their EeePC in 2007, Asus made history. Who would have known that these mini laptops would become so popular only a year or so later? Their latest release of the Nseries netbooks are feature packed albeit a little on the larger size; with 15.4” screens they are more like laptops.The real stars of the Asus brand in my eyes are the Eee PC’s who are today a far cry from their original release. They are fast, offer plenty of storage for those who require so and look ultra-cool and sexy. Extra long battery life and their netbooks with shock-proof HD are just an added bonus. To boost they are also incredible affordable for most people.
- Sony
Sony is a relative newcomer to the netbook market, but when we look at their latest Sony VAIO TT netbook, it is clear that they have put a lot of thought into the making of it. It comes packed with features but perhaps the most outstanding is the Blu-ray support is has built in. Be prepared to part with your money as these little machines will have you pay from $2,750.
- Elonex
Elonex has also entered the netbook market with budget netbooks for around $200. Their Elonex One even features a detachable keyboard.
- Hewlett-Packard
HP also features a good range of small sized netbooks. They range from 8.9” to bigger and come with Windows XP. Starting at around $329 they too are a good buy considering you get a fully operational OS with everything you need for on-the-go portability.
Upon my research it has become clear to me that netbooks will indeed be the “thing of 2009” and beyond. If you never laid eyes on a netbook yourself, I suggest you hit the shops now. They really are as groovy as they look.
So tell me, are you already in netbook fever?
 | Written on 2/01/2009 by Monika Mundell. Monika Mundell is a passionate freelance writer and pro-blogger. Her blog Freelance Writing helps new freelance writers to get started in this exciting industry. If you like to work with Monika, feel free to visit her Portfolio site. | Photo Credit: sparktography |
