Sometimes called a mini notebook, mini laptop, or subnotebook, netbook is a term coined by Intel. It describes a portable computer about half the size of a traditional laptop.

To reduce the cost of a netbook, they often come installed with a variant of Linux, use smaller screens, do not have a disc drive, and often use low capacity solid-state drives. The picture shows an example of a Netbook, the ASUS Eee PC. Netbooks are a great solution for users who want a computer for Internet access and basic applications, such as a word processor.

In 2013, Acer, ASUS, and others announced they have no intentions of making any new versions of netbooks, officially killing the netbook computer. If you are looking for a Netbook alternative and cheaper laptop, consider a Chromebook. If you’re looking for a Windows computer that is portable and not a laptop, you may also want to consider a hybrid computer.

If you’re having a tough time deciding between a netbook and a laptop, see: Laptop vs. netbook.

Booklet, Hardware terms, Laptop, Nettop

  • How to find information about my computer.
  • Laptop computer buying tips.
  • Laptop vs. netbook.
  • When was the first computer invented?
  • Computer companies who manufacture laptops.
  • Steps in preventing computer theft or making it less painful.
  • Laptop computer help and support.