Netbooks are seen almost everywhere nowadays. It’s as if this little laptop has just popped out of nowhere and became the star among students overnight.

What is a netbook actually?

Netbook is the smaller version of a laptop, typically built with a 10-inch screen or smaller. Most of these computers run Windows or Linux and usually priced below $500. It was originally built so people will be connected to the Internet wherever they maybe.

First introduced by Asustek when it launched the first Eee PC in the fall of 2007. But it was only in the last year when we saw the explosive growth of these so-called mini-laptops. Now we have many computer companies such as HP, Dell, Lenovo… all jumping on this craze for a small portable laptop. So much so, that netbooks now is the fastest growing segment of the laptop industry and is expected to reach 139 million units by 2013.

There is a reason why netbooks received an instant popularity. One reason is because of the hunger for mobility. Most people want a portable device that can keep them connected with the Internet wherever they go and they want something that is light and small too, as much as possible. Most of them crave for a convenient portable device that can keep them connected with their family and friends.

The next question you have to ask: why do netbooks make for great student laptops? If the above reasons aren’t enough, try the following:

Size - Students would have to carry along their school stuff, books, notebooks and many others, additional weight is a big deal for them. Having a very handy netbook along with the other school stuff will not be a burden at all.

Portability - As mentioned above because the netbook is so small and compact, it is very portable. A very mobile device that we can use to stay connected to the web and friends. Connectability is one of the main features - you are connected to the web at all times.

Sturdiness- Netbooks are mostly tough and sturdy. They are not easily threatened by careless handling. As we all know, students are not actually the gentlest people on earth, thus, they need a tough and sturdy machine to keep up with their aggressiveness.

Battery Life - Since netbooks are small in size, they do have longer battery life compared to regular laptops. This is also vital for students who spend all their time in school and don’t have a chance to re-charge.

Performance - These computers might be small in size but specs wise many of them are still impressive. Most of these gadgets come with 1GB RAM and an Intel Atom processor. Some of the netbooks even have Solid State Hard Drives. Many of these mini-laptops can run Windows Vista or Windows 7, although performance might not be that great compared to the regular laptops.

Storage - The storage capability of netbooks nowadays are gradually increasing, however since these are just mini laptops, you cannot always expect a wide storage capability as compared to regular laptops. Normally, netbooks can only reach up to 60 GB, which is only perfect for students.

Price - Perhaps, the main reason netbooks make the perfect student laptops is the low price. Students are usually on a very limited budget and the low price-tag is a perfect fit. Many perfectly adequate machines are now priced in the $300 to $500 range - while many good ones go for well under $300. Plus, prices are steadily dropping so almost any student can now afford a netbook.

The small form factor, portability, sturdiness, long battery life, good performance, adequate storage, these are the things that makes the netbook the best choice for students. The netbook is perfect for the classroom and the students.

Tags: Online Colleges

Share This