Relatively new computer devices emerging in late 2007, early 2008, netbooks are storming markets with attractive pricing, competing with their laptop and notebook forefathers. Used mainly to surf the web and perform small computer functions, consumers now have the option to have a dulled down laptop that will meet their computing needs at a fraction of the cost.

Netbooks are designed to utilize the Internet for the majority of computing necessities such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, storage, and other various applications. Netbooks do not come with powerful features, as the majority of models have a hard drives that rarely exceed 250 GB, which is fairly new to netbook lines, as it used to be 160 GB. It is also common to find netbooks with 8 GB to 32 GB solid state hard drives that are smaller, faster, and more shock-resistant as they in the form of a series of small chips unlike their disk shaped counterparts.

As storage space remains predominantly low on netbooks, so does memory and processing speeds. Processors are, on average, at about 1.6 GHz. Additionally, a traditional netbook provides about 1 GB of memory, while 512 MB is not uncommon. After all, these machines are not designed to run much more than an Internet browser, which ultimately keeps cost down.

Netbooks are smaller than traditional 13″ to 17″ laptops, as they range in size between 7″ to 10″. Smaller computers amount for less space for traditional computer components such as an optical drive. Netbooks usually do not come with a place for CD’s or DVD’s, but do provide USB ports to hook up that external hard drive or optical drive; however, with such a demand for netbooks do not be surprised if manufacturers start offering netbooks with optical drives as an option.

When manufacturers began developing netbooks, they tried to keep their computing power and features to a minimum, to also keep pricing low. The reason behind this tactic was also make sure that sales of more expensive and profitable laptops and notebooks were not compromised. Unfortunately, this marketing idea began to decline in effectiveness, as laptops and notebooks sales declines with the introduction of netbook alternatives. Currently, companies are now going to be meeting consumer demand by beginning to add features and power to these netbook products.

Microsoft and Intel have joined the netbook bandwagon as well, offering less expensive products to fit the netbook philosophy. Microsoft has claimed that their minimized version of Windows XP has fulfilled 96% of netbook users’ operating system needs. Conversely, Linux, who was originally the predominate operating system supplier for netbooks, fills the remaining 4 to 5%. Intel has introduced a line of processors entitled Atom that have about half the power of their Celeron line, but are much smaller and use less energy. Overall, these original equipment manufacturers have noticed the netbook trend and have adapted to the minimalistic computer culture.

Priced, on average, around $300, netbooks are not only revolutionizing the computer industry, but are also allowing consumers who never owned a computer to be able to afford one. Netbooks offer a gateway to online computing, reducing the purchase cost with dulled features compared to laptop alternatives.

Matthew Kerridge is an fan of conusmer electronics. If you want more information about varieties of netbook or are looking for a reputable netbook retailer please viasit http://www.ebuyer.com

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