MetaChat - AskMeCha: Netbooks.

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02 April 2009

AskMeCha: Netbooks. Do you have one? Do you like it?
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I'm planning a computer purchase (because it's easier to get one before bankruptcy than after). We (my parents and I) currently have two computers over four years old. I am thinking of getting a decent desktop whose primary purpose will be running QuickBooks, with some browsing. I could instead get a decent laptop (haven't had one in a while).

But maybe it would make more sense to get a good desktop AND a netbook. There's already wi-fi so that's not an issue.

These will be parsimonious purchases but at least both will be deductible business expenses. The main concern is the other stuff we need to get with the cash on hand before filing.

I like the idea of the netbook, but I also fear it combines the worst features of un-upgradeable laptops with un-user-friendly screen and key sizes. I can adapt to almost anything, but I'm beginning to feel my eyes going and so teeny text may not be very pleasant. I wouldn't expect to do much more than browse, if the desktop were there to run the heavy-duty software.

post by: stilicho at: 03:42 | 8 comments

The size of netbooks really is a problem. Especially when using them to run operating systems that expect quite a lot of screen real estate. I got myself one, and I barely use it.

In fact, I use my iPhone more than the netbook, so maybe it's worth getting an iPod Touch instead.

Or - Given that you can get a low-spec notebook for nearly the price of a netbook, I'd go down that route instead.

If you're spending time on the computer though - I think you do need a desktop.
Or you need a spare mouse, keyboard and monitor.

posted by seanyboy 02 April | 04:59

I was thinking about a netbook but for various reasons, I went with a laptop and a cell modem instead. Mainly I did not want to hunt down free wifi hotspots, and I don't watch streaming movies so the 5 GB a month max is no concern.

posted by Ardiril 02 April | 05:36

I've got one. You're right, I think, that the smaller keyboard (though some netbooks are worse in this respect than others), and 1024x600 screen can be an issue (on the other hand, my desktop monitor is 1900x1200, and I rarely use all that real estate).

Un-user-upgradability? I've got a Lenovo S10, and I've already doubled the RAM and added storage space. The hard drive is upgradable, and plenty of geeks have done things like adding Bluetooth and swapping out the wifi module (and tnkgrl is going nuts with her Acer Aspire One). Processor and onboard video are limited, but I don't push that stuff to its limits anyway.

All that said--my netbook is pretty awesome, but I agree with seanyboy about using a desktop for real work.

posted by box 02 April | 07:02

One common piece of advice is to try out the keyboard in person before buying. I think this is a good idea.

(I fairly recently decided on a netbook and purchased it. And I like talking about the things--if you have more specific questions, I'd be happy to field them.)

(Besides seanyboy, Pips, JanetLand, and quite a few other Mecha folks also have netbooks. You might dig this previous thread. There are a bunch of AskMe questions tagged with 'netbook,' too.)

posted by box 02 April | 07:08

Wow, tnkgrl really pushed that thing into the future. When the biz replaces DVDs with SD cards or improves streaming tech, we'll be set.

posted by Ardiril 02 April | 07:37

'Dude and I have been thinking about replacing our dying laptop with a netbook. We'd only use it for web-browsing in the living room and on travel. We already own a desktop/media center which does the bulk of our computer work. A big ol' laptop in addition to that seems like overkill right now.

posted by muddgirl 02 April | 09:13

For that kind of use, muddgirl, I think a netbook would be a good choice.

I was going to say earlier that, for me at least, having a real desktop at home helps mitigate some of the weaknesses of the netbook (e.g., no optical drive, minimal redundant storage).

posted by box 02 April | 09:49

Thanks! This persuaded me that the stuff I do doesn't make a netbook a good choice right now.

posted by stilicho 03 April | 22:29

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