Netbook Scoop

Which Netbook Is Right for Me?

Posted by Tom Greer on August 18, 2009 in Netbook Market

One question that we get quite often here at Netbook Scoop is “Which netbook is right for me?” When you first look at most netbooks on the market it seems like they all look the same to the naked eye.

In my mind,there are several key factors that are most important to consider when it comes to selecting the right netbook to fit your needs. I’m going to break these down to four important steps when you do your shopping.

Step 1: Processor

When selecting your netbook does speed make a big difference? This is where Intel rules the netbook processor kingdom. In the table below you will see several different processors.

The most popular Processors on netbooks are the Intel Atom N270 and N280 processor. Both processors are very low voltage and give you some of the best performance while saving battery life.

The Intel Atom Z520/Z530 processors are sometimes used in netbooks with the 11-inch or 12-inch displays. The main reason for this is that it helps extend battery while using a larger display. The disadvantage to the Intel Z520 processor is it lacks speed compared to the N270 and N280 processors. I would personally recommend a netbook with an Intel Atom N270 or N280 processor (the performance difference between the two is almost imperceivable).

HP was one of the first manufacturers to use the AMD Athlon Neo MV-40 processor in a netbook with their dv2 model. Most reviewers were critical of the price/performance ratio and the poor battery life.

Step 2: Battery

There are two big decisions when it comes to picking a battery. Do I want three-cell or six-cell battery? The difference between the two is significant.  Six-cell batteries give you about double the life compared to three-cell models.  The extra battery life does not come free, it adds about 1/3 to 1/2 pound to the weight to your netbook.

Keep in mind that all six-cell batteries are not created equal. A good example of this is the Asus Eee PC 1005HA, which offers two models with different 6-cell batteries. The Asus 1005HA-V has a 48Wh six-cell battery that lasts 8.5 hours. Now if you compare this to the Asus 1005HA-P model it has a 63Wh six-cell battery that lasts 10.5 hours for an extra $40.00.

Just because it comes with a six-cell battery doesn’t always mean it’s going to last 8 to 10 hours. Some models will only last 4 or 5 hours. It is best to check reviews for real-world battery test results rather than relying on manufacturer claims.

Step 3: Keyboard

This is something that is very important to me. You will hear alot of talk about 93% full keyboard size, or 85% full keyboard. When it comes to the xx% full keyboard size don’t be fooled, they are not all the same!

Make sure you look at the pictures of the keyboard layout.

Some keyboards don’t have the function keys along the top. Other netbooks have a half-sized right shift key that is often placed where it makes you very prone to typos. Sometimes you will find the the Windows Start key does not exist or has been moved to the opposite side of the keyboard.

I think Samsung and Acer have some of the best keyboards in the netbook market no matter which model you choose.  Toshiba joins the ranks of netbook makers who provide excellent keyboards with their mini NB205.

Step 4: Display

What size display do I go with? There are 3 main sizes in the netbook market at the moment. The 9-inch, 10-inch, and 11.6-inch displays. The 9-inch displays are now more of a thing from the past. Dell recently discontinued the Dell Mini 9 netbook.

The most popular display is the 10-inch netbook. These units usually come with a display that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 600 or 1024 x 576.  We are just beginning to see a few with 1366 x 768 resolution.  Some reviewers have complained that the images are so sharp and tiny that it is uncomfortable to use for any period of time.

The 11.6-inch displays support resolutions up to 1366 x 768, which is good enough to display high-definition video. Apparently, this resolution on a larger screen is easier on the eyes.

Assistance In Locating the Right Netbook

If you use these guidelines to decide which features are most important to you, then you will increase the probability of being really satisfied with your new netbook.

As you venture out to find the netbook that fits you best, we have a number of different features to assist you.

Be sure to read Searching for Netbooks, which will quickly show you all the different ways you can find information about netbooks.

When you are ready to make a purchase, be sure you make use of our compare prices pages. There you can find the vendors who have it in stock at the lowest price.

One last idea, if you subscribe to our news feed you can receive all of our daily articles including our Deals of the Day and Falling Netbook Prices articles.  Our newsletter also contains information that will assist you.  You can subscribe to the newsletter using the form in the sidebar.