Back-to-School: Choosing a Netbook for Students

When it comes to mobile computing, there are an overwhelming number of options to be considered - especially for students. With the wide array of portables that are available, it is important to consider a system's specifications along with any particular software requirements. If the need is for basic, yet powerful ultra-mobile computing, then a netbook is the right choice.

Ultra-portable notebooks have been on the market for some time. These are laptops that feature a traditionally smaller than average size screen - something less 15" for example, and weigh a few pounds less from the norm as well. After time, even these notebooks became too much of a burden for frequent travelers and for those that are always on the go. Enter the netbook.

Available for a few years now, netbooks have certainly evolved - with larger disk space and faster processors. Netbooks can be easily described as the next step down from an ultra-portable notebook, and are based on a smaller form-factor, and are usually also about half the weight. A typical netbook has a 10" - 11" widescreen, 1-2 GB of system RAM (memory), and around 100-200 GB of storage space. Netbooks also usually feature a specialized mobile CPU that provides decent performance, all while considering battery consumption, and operating temperature concerns.

Although netbooks are improving as time passes, they are basically for average computer use. This means, that although it may be possible to run memory, graphic, and video intensive software applications, the performance results will likely be highly unacceptable. What netbooks are designed for is everyday computing - meaning, using the internet, using email, listening to music, watching videos, basic casual gaming, word processing, and more. With these features, netbooks are perfect for students, and are perfect backpack companions. The devices are much smaller than most college textbooks, and usually weigh around 4 lbs.

As with any computer purchase, consider any specific software requirements when making a decision. Often students in technology programs, such as game design and development usually desire something more powerful. Fortunately, for many programs, any higher-end software applications are readily available for use on school provided lab computers, making netbooks even more appealing for note-taking, and other typical school based activities.

Netbooks are available at almost every major retailor, however, it is important to consider academic pricing when price shopping. Both Dell and HP, for example, offer academic pricing online for any student that can provide proof of student status. Proof is usually acceptable in the form of a school schedule, or student ID. Each manufactures website can provide specific details and qualifications.

Here are some high-rated netbooks to consider when including a portable in your back-to-school shopping trip.

ASUSTek Disney Netpal

Genuine Windows XP Home
8.9" LED-backlit WSVGA screen (1024x600)
Intel CPU & Chipset Intel ATOM N270
Memory DDR2 SO-DIMM 1GB
160GB HDD

Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Nickelodeon Edition

Intel Atom Processor N270 (1.6GHz/533Mhz FSB/512K cache)
Genuine Windows XP Home Edition SP3
10.1" Widescreen Display (1024x600)
1GB2 DDR2 SDRAM
160GB, 2.5inch, 5400RPM3 SATA Hard Drive

HP Mini 210 HD Edition series

Genuine Windows XP Home with Service Pack 3
Intel Atom Processor N455 (1.66GHz, 512KB L2) + Intel(R) Graphics Media Accelerator 3150
1GB DDR3 System Memory (1 Dimm)
160GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive

HP Mini 311 series

Genuine Windows XP Home with Service Pack 3
Intel Atom Processor N270 (1.60GHz, 512KB L2, 533Mhz FSB) with NVIDIA ION graphics
1GB DDR3 System Memory
160GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive

Toshiba Mini NB300
Intel Atom Processor N455
Genuine Windows 7 Starter (32-bit)
10.1" widescreen
1GB DDR3 memory
250GB HDD (5400rpm)
Intel Integrated Graphics

Sources/Resources:

ASUSTek
Dell
HP
Toshiba