Of course we can’t carry a desktop everywhere we go, so the laptop was introduced to answer our prayers.  As laptops became too bulky and power hungry, notebooks were released. When our desire to fit our computers in our back pockets became too much, netbooks arrived on the scene. But what really are the differences between these three classes? Are they significant? Which is the best for you? Hopefully, the guide below will help you choose which option best fits your lifestyle.

Laptops – As the largest and most powerful of the group, the laptop is slowly replacing the desktop as the standard home computer.

• Approximately 14-17 inch screen.

• Full Sized Keyboard

• 2GB of RAM or more (upgradable)

• Advanced Graphics Card, Nvidia, ATI, etc. (usually 128MB or more)

• Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Modem, Bluetooth.

• Quality Sound Card and Speakers

• Approx. 3 Hour Battery Life

• DVD+/-RW Drive

• Low Energy/High Performing Processor

• Large Hard Drive

Notebooks – The more portable, less powerful, and lighter cousin of the laptop, notebooks offer a good compromise of power and mobility.

• Approximately 12-14 Inch Screen

• Basic (usually integrated) Graphics System

• Approx. 4-5 Hours of Battery Life

• Fewer Ports

• Either No Internal Drive, or a Basic CD/DVD-ROM drive

• Smaller Hard Drive

• About 1GB of RAM

• Smaller, More Compact Keyboard

• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

• Energy Saving Processor

Netbooks – The ultimate solution for mobile computing. Netbooks are generally extremely light-weight, small, and energy-efficient. As you can tell by their name, they are best suited for internet users who need to stay connected on the go.

• Approximately 8-10 Inch Screen

• No Internal CD or DVD drive

• Extremely Small Keyboard.

• Lower Performing, But Very Energy-Efficient Processor

• Few Ports

• Most Are Cheaper Then Laptops or Notebooks.

• Sometimes use Solid State Drives (lower capacity, power-saving) instead of Hard Drives

• 1GB or Less of RAM

• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

• Extremely Minimal Graphics System

• Weigh around 2-3 pounds

Overall as you can see there are many options and styles today to suit your portable computing needs. If you a serious heavy computer user and want the most powerful version then a Laptop is for you. If you want it all, but can comprimise a little on power & specs then a notebook is your flavor. Lastly, if you just want the ultimate portability and really need a computer solution for basic work, but mainly internet use then a netbook is your winner. Hopefully this  guide was helpful to you in choosing which option best fits your lifestyle. Enjoy and happy computing!

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Verizon recently announced the release of their MiFi 2200 portable router with 802.11 b/g and EV-DO Rev. A.  This awesome little device can connect up to five different WiFi devices at once to Verizon’s 3G connection. This means that anywhere you can get service with a Verizon phone, you can connect computers, smartphones, capable MP3 players, etc. to the internet. This allows you to remain mobile and connected at the same time, but you are going to have to pay for it. You can pay for a 24-hour pass for $15, $40 per month for 250MB, or $60 per month for 5GB. In addition, the unit  itself costs around $100 after the rebate.

With the release of their mobile hotspot, Verizon is furthering their control of the mobile market and increasing our access to the internet wherever and whenever. But with a battery life of 4 hours during use and 40 hours in standby mode, you might want to find an alternative if you need time to accomplish many tasks. Although the price and the battery life are not optimal, the Verizon MiFi 2200 defies logic by keeping us connected while we are unconnected…..wait….what?