When netbook was first introduced in 2008, it came with just enough processing power to handle non-CPU extensive tasks such as web browsing, email checking, and document processing. This has however changed over the years. The quality of netbook keeps improving. Netbook manufacturers like Asus, Acer, Dell, and Toshiba continue to release new netbook models with better specs and design over the years. Now it has come to a point where a netbook is almost as capable as a standard laptop — some of them even have enough horse power for gaming and high definition movies playback!

Of course, there are some features that a netbook still cannot compete with a standard laptop. For instance, a netbook is lack of optical drive, having a lower-end CPU, and comes with smaller screen and keyboard. But as a netbook user, I can tell you that these “limitation” actually give some advantages to the netbook. Here’s how:

• Lower-end CPU: Most netbooks today are using the Intel Atom CPU. While it’s not as powerful as the processors that other mainstream computers are using, it’s more energy efficient and thus providing better endurance. The Asus Eee PC 1005PE, one of the netbook with the best endurance, can provide up to 14 hours of battery life!
• Lack of optical drive: There are two benefits for not including an optical drive in a netbook. First, it drives the netbook’s price lower; and second, the netbook is lighter. You can always get an external optical drive when you need it.
• Smaller keyboard and screen: This makes the netbook more portable and incredibly easy to be carried around.

Now comes to the most important question: which netbook is the best? There’s no exact answer for that. Asus is good at creating netbook with great endurance; Toshiba has the best keyboard design; while Acer is well known for their competitive netbook price. In terms of popularity though, Acer does seem to be one step ahead of the rest — affordability is still the most important factor in this era of economic crisis. Just look at some Acer netbook deals online, and you will be surprised by how cheap these mini computers can be!

The Asus Eee laptop is like the little engine that could. One of the best small laptops for sale that are available is this one. The overall size of the unit is only 8-3/4″ x 7″ x 1″ and weighing less than 1kg. Making it quite easy to carry around without the bulkiness. Fits in a briefcase, handbag , pocketbook, or even a small knapsack. They claim to be more durable to bumps and shocks to the unit. Which is a good thing, I would think that something the size of a notebook and just as thin would take any abuse.

It’s size is not the only thing that’s small. You can pick one up of less than $400. As far as cheap new laptops go, this is one of the best. What’s inside is a 1.6 GHz Intel atom processor along with an Intel 950 graphics card, 1GB if RAM, a 80 GB hard drive, 512 cache memory and a few more items that make you want to give it some thought. As for start up speed, Asus claims the Eee is usable with Lixus booting in about 10 seconds (give or take). You can shoose to use Windows and take a fe more with that OS. When compared to a Mac, they’re ready in about the same time.

The programs that are available as standard with the Asus Eee are Microsoft Works, along with Star Office8 office suites (speedsheet, word processor, calender programs, database and much more. Keep in mind that with the 80GB hard drive, you sure have more than enough room for other software programs.

It seems that the Asus Eee at it’s regular price is like finding other notebooks on sale.

Update: One of our new readers, Jan D, sent us this list of places to find good deals on laptops. Thanks Jan!

1. Walmart can’t be beat for good prices on computers including laptops from Dell with their Inspiron 1545 Laptop PC with an Intel Pentium T4500 Processor and Windows 7 Home Premium software 64-bit Edition, Microsoft Works 9 software and Skype VoIP Software. Walmart is also selling a Holiday Laptop Bundle with your choice of laptop computers including the Acer As5334-2737, the Compaq Presario CQ62-219WM or the Toshiba Silver Satellite L455D-S5976. The Holiday Bundle also includes an extra 4GB Flash Drive, wireless mouse and laptop accessories.

2. Geeks.com has super deals on laptops from Toshiba such as the Pentium Dual-Core ULV, the Athion II Dual Core P320 or Dell’s Inspiron 1545 Dual-Core T4400. Prices are around $500 for refurbished laptops.

3. At Newegg.com laptop computers from companies such as Lenovo, Toshiba or Asus may cost as little as $400.00. Even at $400. you are getting a dual core processor.

4. Target carries HP Pavilions for $699.00, Toshibas are also sold for about the same price at $619.00 including the Toshiba Satellite with a 320GB hard drive for only $529.99.

5. Be sure to check with the “For Sale” ads in the local newspaper. Many times you can find used laptops in the want ads for a small price. Also consignment shops will pass on electronics such as laptop computers for a small cost to you. 

Reader Question: For those of you that have owned an Asus, what did you pay for it and were you satisfied with it? Would you buy another one?