Both netbooks and laptops can access the Internet through Wi-Fi hot spots.
According to JiWire, there are about 109,000 U.S. Wi-Fi locations and 680,000 locations around the world. You can use this wireless Internet technology with either a netbook or laptop. Although netbooks are generally cheaper, laptops have advantages when it comes to certain Internet activities. Deciding between a netbook and a laptop for Wi-Fi access involves balancing the convenience and relative capabilities of these computers.
Price
A netbook is essentially a mini laptop. Companies market netbooks as a smaller, less expensive option than laptops. For example, at the time of publication, the cheapest netbook on the Acer website is about $250. Conversely, the cheapest laptop is about $350. If price is a major concern, then choosing a netbook for Wi-Fi access can save you money.
Size
Netbooks are smaller than laptops. For some users, the smaller size makes it more convenient. For example, a netbook can fit in some briefcases or bags that are just too small to carry a laptop. Additionally, the lighter weight makes it easier to carry a netbook. For example, HP netbooks start at only 2.5 pounds. On the other hand, HP laptops weigh 5 to 9 pounds. This is beneficial for those who wish to carry a computer around town or on trips for Wi-Fi access. However, this benefit cuts both ways. For some users, the smaller size of a netbook monitor makes it inconvenient. This is especially true if you have trouble reading smaller text.
Functionality
Although netbooks can still run graphic-rich video games and other things that require a large amount of memory, the problem is that some activities slow down the netbook. This makes it more difficult to enjoy those online activities. HP recommends using a netbook for things like surfing the net, email and word processing. Netbooks are also fine for listening to music, chatting with friends and viewing photos. A laptop is preferable for other activities. Examples include video games, watching videos and movies, editing photos and videos and running multiple applications.
Balancing Benefits
Although netbooks have their benefits in terms of size and price, you must also consider the functionality differences when selecting a netbook over a laptop. Whether the size and price are sufficient benefits to choose a netbook over a laptop depends on exactly what kinds of things you want to do when accessing Wi-Fi. You have to balance the cost and convenient size with what you give up in laptop functionality. For example, if you only use Wi-Fi occasionally to check personal email, then a netbook can do the job for you. On the other hand, if you are a traveling business professional who needs to check email while handling documents and doing other tasks, then the additional power of a laptop may be more suitable for your purposes. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal needs and preferences.
Tags: Although netbooks, Wi-Fi access, makes more, netbook over, netbook over laptop
