Netbook

Netbooks are a class of computers that are small, light, and inexpensive. The typical netbook features a 7 to 12-inch screen, wireless Internet connectivity, a Linux or Windows operating system and costs less than $450.

Like their desktop counterparts, netbooks are well-suited for accessing web-based applications, cloud computing and rich internet applications. They are less appropriate for running complex or resource intensive applications directly from the netbook itself.

The influx of small form-factor laptops categorized as netbooks began in 2007 when Asus unveiled the Intel Celeron based Asus Eee PC which became very popular. It featured a 7-inch display, a keyboard approximately 85% the size of a normal keyboard, a custom version of Linux and the ability to run alternative operating systems. Following the Eee PC, MSI released the Wind, Dell and HP both released “Mini” series (the Inspiron Mini and HP Mini) and other manufacturers soon followed suit.

Soon, netbooks began to take market share away from notebooks and it is estimated that 11.4 million units were sold in 2008. For 2009, sales are expected to grow a further 189% to 21.5 million.