

Updated November 15, 2018

To better understand the differences and help you decide which one is right for you, here’s an in-depth look at both the laptop and the netbook.

In the portable computing world consumers have the choice between purchasing a laptop or a netbook. While on the outside these two mobile computers may look very similar, on the inside they are very different. To better understand the differences and help you decide which one is right for you, here’s an in-depth look at both the laptop and the netbook.

What Is a Laptop?

A laptop is a small, portable computer. In fact, there are very few differences between a laptop and a desktop computer. All laptops contain a processor, all the necessary features required to run a chosen operating system, and the ability to connect multiple external devices or cables and run several programs at one time.

What Is a Netbook?

A netbook is a portable computer that is similar to a laptop, you may also know them as "Chromebook" or "Tablet computers". The overall size of the netbook is about half of a regular laptop. The smaller size of the portable computer allows the netbook to only perform basic internet and computer functions.

The Cost Difference

Due to their small size and limited features, a netbook will have a lower retail price than a laptop. Laptops often come with faster processors, bigger screens, larger hard drives, and multiple software programs. All of these features cost more to manufacture and raise the price of a laptop.

If cost is a factor in determining whether you purchase a laptop or netbook, then a netbook is probably your best bet.

Processor Speeds

The most expensive element of a computer to manufacture is the processor. In an effort to lower the cost of netbooks, manufacturers will put slower processors in the devices. Processors are important for those that play computer games, multi-task on their computer, or want to watch movies.

If these features are important to you, then consider purchasing a laptop with a faster processor. However, a netbook can offer the same experience as a laptop for a basic computer user.

Hard Drive Space and Speed

The size of a hard drive directly impacts how long it takes a computer to retrieve information for the user. The hard drive on a laptop is larger in size, but the larger size results in slower data retrieval. Netbooks use a hard drive device known as an SSD drive, which is smaller than a traditional hard drive. These smaller drives hold less data, but work faster to retrieve the information.

For those looking to store huge files or multiple documents a laptop may be the best choice, but there may be a sacrifice in the speed at which the data is retrieved. For those looking for fast data retrieval or only wish to store a few documents, a netbook will meet those needs.

Keyboard Size

Keyboards on a laptop are larger than those on a netbook. While all the keyboards are set up the same way, on a netbook the smaller keyboard can cause problems for those who type for longer periods of time. You should try out the size of the keyboard to ensure that the keyboard can handle the amount of typing that you do on a daily basis.

The Operating System

Operating systems are the main control center for laptops and netbooks. The type of operating system can affect what software programs you run or how your computer runs. Due to the smaller size of the netbook, consumers are only able to run older versions of Windows or a Linux operating system. For consumers who are unfamiliar with Linux or wish to have the latest version of Windows, a laptop may be the best choice as the larger size allows for the latest version of Windows to run.

Disc Drive

Disc drives are technical devices that computer users use to run or read CD’s or DVD’s. Most laptops contain an internal disc drive; however, netbooks, in an effort to keep the retail costs down and keep the computer size smaller, don't come with a disc drive.

To run a CD or DVD on a netbook, you need to purchase an external disc drive that can be plugged into the netbook. External CD/DVD rom devices can be expensive and create a bulky appearance on a netbook.


While netbooks and laptops may look similar they are completely different devices and are suited for different computer users.

Laptops are ideal for:

  • Those who wish to use their portable computer for work, schoolwork, extensive computer programming or running heavy applications.
  • Those who want to store large amounts of data or multiple documents on their portable device.
  • Those looking for larger keyboards.
  • Those looking to use their portable device to run CD's or DVD's.
  • Those looking to run the latest version of Windows.

Netbooks are ideal for:

  • Basic computer users such as web browsing, streaming or taking notes.
  • A cost-effective computer that performs basic functions, similar to a tablet.
  • Automatic update to software and virus protection.
  • Tends to have a longer battery life.
  • Those looking to have quick data retrieval times.

Don’t let the similar appearance fool you when purchasing a netbook or laptop. Take the time to weigh the differences and consider which device will meet your portable computer needs.

Created May 24, 2018, last updated November 15, 2018

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