Netbook Comparison Tips

Netbook comparison tips can help you subjectively evaluate your potential netbook options and find the perfect netbook for you. Make sure you look at a few key factors, and compare netbooks in a way that makes sense while you're going through the selection process.

Don't compare apples and oranges.
Netbook comparison can be tricky. Many manufacturers use company-specific terms and jargon to advertise and market netbooks. Additionally, you'll find a broad range of hardware in netbooks, making it even more difficult to form an effective comparison.

Make sure you're comparing apples and apples. An Intel processor isn't the same as an AMD processor, and comparing them without regard for which one you need isn't productive. Find a way to cut through the marketing talk, and compare the features directly in order to form a thorough evaluation.

Decide which type of processor suits you best.
Speaking of processors, you have to decide which type of processor suits you best: Intel or AMD. Intel processors tend to be slightly better at handling multi-tasking, and their mobile versions are extremely efficient. AMD processors generally run hotter than Intel, meaning your netbook may be physically warmer to the touch, and you could be looking at a reduced lifespan due to heat.

However, AMD processors are less expensive than the equivalent Intels, and their mobile offerings are getting competitive with Intel, especially for basic word processing and Web surfing. Ultimately, processor is a pretty subjective choice, but decide which one you want before you get serious about shopping for netbooks.

RAM makes all the difference.
RAM is one of the biggest factors in any type of computer, but especially in netbooks. Because these tiny machines are often light in processor power, you may notice a lag even in simple tasks, like opening applications or switching between windows.

When you're shopping for netbooks, look for machines that offer plenty of RAM, or the ability to upgrade. 1GB may seem like plenty for such a tiny machine, but if you use a netbook in addition to a regular laptop or computer, the difference in performance is noticeable and is going to drive you crazy.

Look at screens.
One area in which netbooks vary significantly is the screen. Netbook screens are obviously smaller, but they also tend to be dimmer for the sake of increased performance. The screen backlight is a huge battery drain, and energy-efficient netbooks are big on battery savings. That being said, make sure you compare netbook screens in person before you buy anything. Play around with brightness settings, and adjust color and contrast if possible. Make sure you find a screen that provides a display you can read easily, especially if you're going to be looking at it for long periods of time. A netbook is useless if it leads to eyestrain.

Keyboards are key.
Since netbooks are designed to be small, their keyboards are sized appropriately. This isn't a huge problem for hunt-and-peckers, but if you're a touch typist, you might have big difficulties adjusting to a smaller keyboard. Try out different keyboards, and look for the form factor. Keyboard form factor in netbooks is typically expressed as a percentage, and it's relative to the scale of a standard keyboard. A 94% form factor, for example, is approximately 94% the size of a regular keyboard. Touch typists should look for something as close to 100% as possible to avoid problems.