Should you buy a netbook? What should you look for in a netbook? What should you not look for?

A netbook can be a smart alternative to buying a laptop. For those who want a small computer and use it most for e-mail and paper writing, you can save time and space. A netbook will also save you money as you will not be paying for computer programs that you do not use. So before you consider your next computer purchase, consider buying a netbook.

What is a netbook? It is a small, laptop computer that does not have all programs used in a laptop or desktop computer. Netbooks were originally sold with alternative operating systems (such as Linux) to keep costs down. They also may use alternative versions of popular applications such as spreadsheets or word processing (Note: this is no different than home packages offered by PC makers). You can get standard hard drive memory but many come with solid-state disks (think built-in USB). That is not to say they do not have other bells and whistles: Even some low end versions come with built in cameras. Should you by a netbook, you will cover your needs without breaking the bank.

Why should you want a netbook? There are a lot of reasons to consider a netbook:

• Netbooks are ideal for students because they are small and can be toted to classes and fit on desks (even half desks).
• Netbooks are inexpensive. You can purchase one for $300 to $400. I bought one after a laptop had a "minor" repair that would cost me upwards of $250 to fix. The math was easy.
• Netbooks can supplement your home PC System. When building your home network, you may have a couple of users who use the computer for the internet and paper writing. Netbooks are an inexpensive way to build out your home computer network.
• Netbooks are small. If space is an issue, netbooks take up less of space than even most laptops of a comparable price.
• Netbooks give you convenience without the unnecessary extras. It is simple economics.

The popularity of netbooks is increasing. This is good news for users because operating systems and applications will follow. Windows XP has now become the standard OS for netbooks. Anyone who has watched the evolution of the PC industry grow knows that mass adoption drives innovation.

Before you go out and buy your next notebook computer, establish your computer needs. You may find that a netbook fits those needs better than a laptop or a desktop. Buying a netbook will save you cash without sacrificing convenience.