Top 5 Affordable and Reliable Netbooks for Students

The start of the school year is an annual occurrence affecting budget-conscious families in this difficult economic climate. Students require the tools they need to succeed in school. If a laptop computer is on their list, consider a netbook, or a smaller, more affordable laptop with Internet capabilities.

Netbooks are primarily used for word processing and light Internet activities like social media. If you want something basic and affordable to assist with schoolwork, a netbook is likely a good investment.

The following netbooks offer fair value for price:

HP Mini 110 Notebook

The HP Mini 110 Notebook is a popular companion computer for students who have larger laptops or desktop computers at home. Its import feature allows one-touch synchronization. This computer weighs under 3 pounds and even fits in most messenger bags or the front pockets of larger backpacks.

This mini is also ideal for college students. The included webcam provides a convenient way for students to keep in touch with their families. As HP is an internationally recognized brand, it's ideal for students studying abroad as well; technical support for HP is readily available in most locations.

The HP Mini 100 is available in multiple shell colors.

Retail price: $279.99

Acer Aspire One 521

The Acer Aspire One 521 is a workhorse. Students who are interested in developing their multitasking abilities prefer this type of netbook.

This netbook offers a lock slot for security, ideal for dorm room, library or computer lab use. Weighing in at under 3 pounds, this netbook includes three USB slots for optimal accessibility and media access.

The Acer offers stereo speakers, microphone and webcam, ideal for staying in touch.

Retail Price: $299.99

Dell Inspirion Mini 10 (1018) Notebook

This computer is ideal for a student on the go. This computer offers 7 hours of battery life. Popular among male students for its larger keyboard size, the Inspirion offers less in terms of gimmick and design but more when it comes to capability and battery life.

The Dell Inspirion Mini 10 (1018) Notebook is designed for a social networker. It includes Wireless-N, a component that makes browsing faster than the standard Wireless-G.

A useful choice for media display, this netbook also contains a webcam.

Dell offers financing starting at $20 per month. Parents can finance the netbook and collect payments from students, offering a lesson in finance and making payments.

Retail price: $299.99

Asus EE PC X101

Looking for a thin and lightweight design with a MacBook feel? Check out the Asus EE PC X101. This machine achieves a fine aesthetic and is available in three different colors. Winning on price point, the Asus offers two USB ports, Bluetooth capability and a webcam.

Students traveling abroad may find limited support with this computer, however, and its battery life is limited to 4 hours.

Retail price: $200.00

eMachines eM350-2074

This netbook is basic and all about staying connected. This netbook is also suitable for students with larger hands as it offers a wide keyboard. Providing all of the essentials, eMachines produces a solid and reliable netbook.

Retail price: $279.99