Thinking about replacing your desktop PC with a netbook? Maybe you should think twice. While the netbook is cheaper and lighter than a traditional laptop, approximately $250.00 to $299.00 and about 3 lbs., some features leave users wanting more. The netbook is a bit slower than your traditional laptop which can make web browsing and downloading content more time consuming; not extremely slow, but still noticeable. The keyboard is also smaller making it difficult for those with large hands and fingers to type. You may be hitting the backspace button more than you would like. In addition, there is no optical drive. To some this may be no big deal while to others this may be a set back. Storage is another problem with these little netbooks. Depending on the model, storage in one of these mini’s can start from 4GB up to 40GB and beyond. The more you pay the more you get however this still may not be enough for some. For those still stuck in the Windows age, if you want your mini to come with Windows, it must be XP. Vista is not an option because there is not enough power in the little netbook for such an OS. And finally, the most disturbing to myself of course, though all netbooks are offered with Linux most people do not go for the OS. Fear of the unknown? Afraid of change? Quite possibly. Either way it is still a turn-off to those stuck in the Windows world.
So basically when purchasing the netbook your paying for portability and convenience since you can take this little laptop virtually anywhere. It is under 3 pounds, performs all of the basic functions of web browsing and office applications, and has a pretty decent screen. If thats all your looking for, invest! If you need more, keep the big bulky desktop as I am. Love convenience but not if I can’t do anything with it.