Netbook or notebook: what's the difference?
Netbooks and notebooks have long since overtaken the home desktop PC. In this practical tip, we clarify exactly what is the difference between the two portable computers and which model is more suitable for which user type.
Netbook or notebook: design and appearance
- From the outside, the netbook is much smaller than a notebook. Usually netbooks have a screen size of about 10 to 14 inches. The notebook, however, is only available from 15 or 17 inches.
- The size is also noticeable in the weight: the notebook is on average about 1.5 kg heavier than its little brother.
- In addition, a notebook usually offers space for a number pad. Among other things, the size ensures that the keys are further apart and can be operated more comfortably than on a notebook.
- Furthermore, there is no CD or DVD drive in the netbook. Both are standard on the notebook. Top models sometimes come with a Bluray drive.
- The notebook also has more USB ports.
The performance differences in detail
- Multi-core processors are installed as standard in the notebook, which have now almost overtaken the rank of home desktop PCs. The situation is similar with the performance of the graphics cards. Here too, the focus is on performance.
- With netbooks, on the other hand, performance only plays a subordinate role and economy and energy efficiency determine the components used. The stripped-down version of the processor and the graphics card are installed to save more energy.
- This is particularly noticeable in the screen resolution: If you can enjoy films in Full HD (1920x1080) or higher on notebooks, netbooks often only allow 1024x600 pixels. It lets you view pictures or work with Office with ease. On the other hand, you should watch films and videos on the notebook.
- For presentations with the projector, you can easily connect it to the netbook. The weaker hardware is noticeable on the Full HD TV or monitor. Here you should switch to the notebook.
Operating system and software
- With notebooks, you do not have to accept any compromises when it comes to operating systems and software compared to desktop PCs. Windows is available in all versions. All software products for Windows are also compatible without exception.
- In addition to slimmed-down Windows versions (eg "Windows 7 Starter"), the Netbook also uses less extensive Office versions. Furthermore, there are more and more Android or Linux netbooks.
Advantage with netbooks: battery life
- One of the biggest differences is also in terms of battery life. Thanks to more economical hardware components, the netbook battery lasts about seven to ten hours. The larger screen and the stronger resources of the notebook bring it to its knees in a maximum of five hours.
Areas of application: Replacement for desktop PC or mobile workstation
The notebook replaces your home desktop PC in all areas and sometimes delivers better performance. In this regard, the netbook is limited to mobile internet use and the display of photos or text documents.
Conclusion: Netbooks are not a PC replacement
- If you want to replace your home desktop PC one-to-one with a mobile solution, you should definitely use a notebook. Thanks to its enormous performance, you will quickly forget your stationary PC.
- The small size of the netbook makes it ideal for a backpack or lecture hall. Surfing and office work are no problem. Some devices are now also equipped with SIM card slots so that you can surf on the go.
- These differences are also noticeable in the purchase price: Netbooks are already available between 200 and 400 euros. You have to pay significantly more for a notebook. Here we present the ten best netbooks under 400 euros.
- As a second PC or for a small budget, netbooks are the better alternative. If you increasingly watch or use videos, games or applications, you should use the notebook.
If the notebook is too big and expensive for you, but you don't like netbooks, you can look for ultrabooks. We will explain the differences between Ultrabook and Netbook in another practical tip.