Netbook vs Tablet: 4 Reasons I Prefer My Netbook
The Shifting Landscape of Small Laptops
Lenovo's decision to discontinue netbook sales has led to widespread declarations of the "netbook's demise" online.
However, this assessment is demonstrably inaccurate. The term "netbook" never represented a rigidly defined product category. It functioned primarily as a descriptor for smaller-form-factor laptops.
Defining the Line Between Netbooks and Ultrabooks
The distinction between a netbook and devices like the MacBook Air is often blurred. Both are compact computers, making the proclaimed "death of the netbook" more accurately the obsolescence of the term itself.
Manufacturers will continue producing small computers, simply rebranding them under different names. Currently, Ultrabooks fill this niche, and future iterations will likely adopt new, marketing-driven terminology like "Miniputers."
The Impact of Tablets
A significant factor in this shift is the rise of tablets. For users prioritizing portability and extended battery life for web browsing, tablets present a compelling alternative.
A Case for Netbooks
Despite the popularity of tablets, a netbook remains a valuable device. The author expresses satisfaction with their netbook purchase.
Here's a breakdown of the reasoning behind this preference.
- Netbooks offer a different computing experience than tablets.
- They provide functionalities that tablets may lack.
While the term "netbook" may fade from use, the demand for small, portable computers will persist.
Long-Term Value and Cost-Effectiveness
Approximately two and a half years ago, I acquired an EEE PC for a price of $200. It remains my primary computing device for writing tasks.
While not a tablet, its inclusion of a keyboard allows me, as a writer, to effectively produce content. Furthermore, the device continues to be compatible with current software releases.
One might question whether investing over $600 in a tablet lacking a keyboard two years prior would have been a wiser choice, only to discover that future iterations of iOS or Android would be unsupported? The potential for obsolescence due to a lack of software updates is a significant concern.
Consider this: individuals who purchased an iPhone 3G around the time I obtained my netbook now face limitations in installing modern applications. Is there a strong basis for assuming Apple will not implement a similar strategy with the initial iPad generation?
My netbook benefits from being current and responsive, facilitated by Ubuntu. Notably, as of this month, Android can even be installed on it. All of this was achieved at a considerably lower expense than a tablet.
Therefore, I have no reservations about my purchase.
Tablets Excel at Content Consumption, Not Production
For users who primarily wish to browse social media platforms like Twitter, enjoy films, or engage in casual gaming, a tablet represents an ideal choice.
However, when the need arises for genuine content creation, a traditional computer is essential. My preferred device for this purpose is a netbook.
The very nature of tablets positions them as devices optimized for consuming media. They are well-suited for entertainment, but often fall short when it comes to substantial creative endeavors.
While tablets can facilitate certain limited forms of creativity, they are predominantly geared towards passive entertainment. A review of top applications available on Android or iOS platforms demonstrates this, with the majority being games or other content-focused applications.
A touchscreen keyboard presents significant challenges for writers, as accurate touch-typing is not feasible. Although external keyboards can be acquired for tablets, the question arises: why not simply purchase a netbook initially?
3. The Absence of Breakable Glass
The point is self-evident.
A key advantage lies in the elimination of fragile glass components. This design choice inherently reduces the risk of damage from impacts and drops.
Durability Considerations
Traditional devices often suffer from cracked screens. The absence of glass directly addresses this common point of failure.
This contributes to a more robust and reliable user experience, particularly in environments where devices are subject to rough handling.
Benefits of a Glass-Free Design
- Reduced repair costs due to fewer screen replacements.
- Enhanced device longevity as a result of increased resistance to physical damage.
- Greater peace of mind for users concerned about accidental breakage.
Durability is significantly improved by this fundamental design element.
The focus shifts to materials that can withstand greater stress and strain, offering a practical solution to a widespread problem.
The Drawbacks of Reading on Illuminated Displays
A primary appeal of tablets for many users lies in their potential for reading – both books and news articles are highly valued pastimes.
However, a significant issue arises from the prevalence of screen time throughout the day. Prolonged exposure to glowing screens is commonplace, and a desire to avoid further screen interaction often emerges after work hours. Consequently, reading on e-ink displays or traditional paper is often preferred.
This preference stems from reduced eye strain and an improved ability to fall asleep without the stimulating effects of screen exposure immediately beforehand.
Furthermore, books and dedicated e-readers minimize distractions. Constant notifications from emails and social media platforms, such as Twitter, can impede concentration. While some individuals may possess greater self-control, many find it easier to focus on reading when distractions are limited.
The affordability of alternative solutions also plays a role. Given the relatively low cost of devices like netbooks – in this case, $200 – acquiring a separate e-ink reader becomes a financially viable option.
Indeed, the combined expense of a netbook and an e-reader remains considerably less than the price of a tablet device.
Final Thoughts
My preference for a netbook remains firm, and I make no apologies for it. It represents a fiscally responsible choice, and isn't designed for planned obsolescence.
Instead, it’s a tool geared towards creation, rather than simply passive entertainment, and minimizes unnecessary screen time.
Should you hold a differing opinion? Absolutely. Feel free to share your perspectives in the comments section, as I have already shared mine previously.