Notebook computers and tablet PCs are two very different beasts that both live in the same jungle. Each sort of machine aims for a similar set of goals: ultimate portability and ultimate connectivity. These machines let users hold the whole world in their hands – so long as there is free wifi nearby. But do both machines have an equal footing in the computer industry? Will both be around in five years? To answer this, we need to think about what each machine does, and what each is best used for.

Netbooks are basically miniature laptops. They offer fold-out “clamshell” designs with a keboard at the bottom and a screen at the top. Long battery life, slim profiles, and antennas for every sort of wireless signal available ensure their portability. Their design is familiar, and the only thing that new users need to get accustomed to is their mini keyboards and small screens.

Tablets, on the other hand, are 100% screen. They lack keyboards and mice entirely, relying instead on touch input for all controls. While touch is tactilely invigorating and lots of fun to use, it really limits how these sorts of computers may be used. Playing games, surfing the web, or reading ebooks on a tablet PC are all easy to do, but touch-screen keyboards turns a simple task like writing a letter into something a lot more complicated than it needs to be.

Ultimately, both types of portable computers have different target audiences. Netbooks are aimed at anyone who needs to conduct business or stay in touch when on the go. Tablet PCs on the other hand are more for fun than for work, offering outstanding multimedia capabilities and great interaction that most computers can’t provide.

Of course, there are plenty of things that can be accomplished on both netbooks and tablet PCs. Both can make full use of online programs called “web apps” to accomplish all sorts of useful things, from uploading and editing family photos to managing finances, composing presentations, and more.

Games also work equally well on both netbooks and tablet pcs. Thousands of free games are available on the internet – games that do not need to be downloaded in order to be played. Players who know where to look can even find free casino games online, and can gain instant access to real-money events like online free blackjack tournaments from anywhere in the world using either a netbook or a tablet PC.

At the end of the day, while netbooks and tablet PCs have similar overall goals, each targets a different demographic and each is best suited to its own purposes. Perhaps the future will see hybrid machines – small notebook computers with swivel touch-screen displays. Such devices have already been released by some manufacturers, but they have yet to catch on. One thing remains certain – whether your goal is work or play, the future of computing is online.

Dell Inspiron Mini Netbooks -  Stay In Touch Wherever You Go

The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 and Mini 10v make it even easier to stay in touch with your world wherever you go. The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 and 10v netbooks are everything you want in a mobile companion. They may be small, but you will be amazed by their extremely portable, sharp design with outstanding wireless and entertainment features. It makes the Mini 10 and Mini 10v precisely what you are looking for with lot of fun features packed inside.

Widescreen Display Surface

The new Dell Inspiron Mini 10 and 10v netbooks are now offered with a multi-touch track pad and the next generation WiFi, all on a 10.1″ display; with 7 color options; you can customize your companion at a cost that is more than pleasing. The Inspiron Mini 10 and Mini 10v netbooks are intended to give you access to your favorite mobile entertainment. Seamless viewing is possible with a bright 10.1″, widescreen display surface with a 16:9 aspect ratio – perfect to present websites without lots of left-right scrolling, as well as with a smoother line of sight.

Online Backup Service Offers Data Protection

The Dell Inspiron Mini netbook‘s keyboards are so easy to use. At 92% the size of a traditional laptop keyboard, your fingers will be pleased with the Mini 10 and 10v’s keyboards. The online backup service offers data protection by enabling customers to backup data to a safe, remote storage site using a broadband connection. No need to sacrifice weight for battery life. The netbooks provide extended battery life while keeping the weight of the systems under 3 pounds. Overall, Dell Inspiron Minis are a good option for consumers who are looking to buy an ultra portable netbook.

After the launch of netbooks, the scenario of the PC market has been changed. More and more people are now buying cheaper, economical and portable variants of netbooks instead of heavy netbooks or desktop PCs. But, after the CES, 2010, the situation has transformed. Now, the current year will see addition of smartbooks, tablets and superphones in the list to increase the competition and also confusion among the future buyers.

Earlier, it is said that netbooks will outperform notebooks in near future, but now with the new definition and convergence, the question arises that who will win in 2010 – Smartbooks, tablets, superphones or netbooks? Here, we discuss the features of the devices and the reasons for their success.

Smartbook

The name smartbook was first used by Qualcomm and Freescale for the device, which is in between netbooks and Smartphones. While netbooks run on Intel’s Atom processors and feature Windows operating systems, Smartbooks are based on a Qualcomm mobile processor called Snapdragon or ARM platform and have Linux software.

Smartbooks have laptop-style body with display size of 5-10 inches and QWERTY keyboard. They offer all-day battery life, 3G connectivity and GPS. Just like Smartphones, these devices provide full day connectivity and are cheaper than laptops/PCs. It is predicted that about 20 smartbooks will be introduced in the first quarter of 2010. In CES 2010, Lenovo has introduced its ARM-based processor smartbook called Skylight that features 10.1” display.

Tablets

After the much rumored Apple’s tablet PC, which may release by the month end, it is suggested that the current year will be dominated by tablet PC. According to sources, Apple has been working on its tablet PC since July, 2009.

Microsoft has announced HP based tablet PC in the current CES, which will emphasize the touch-screen features of its recently introduced operating system, Windows 7. Further, it is reported that the tablets hold less than 1 percent market share out of total PC sales. Therefore, due to their aggressive pricing, wide connectivity and touch screen will certainly challenge other forms of PCs. Besides, Apple, Microsoft, HP, many new entrants like Motorola, HTC and Sony have been working on their tablets.

Superphones

In CES, 2010, Intel has announced its mobile platform, called Moorestown platform to compete chip vendors in mobile space. Further, the Chipzilla has introduced LG GW990 cellphone based on the Moorestown Platform, which could be called a super phone. The new device has PC-like internet capabilities, 4.8-inch full touchscreen display with a resolution of 1024 x 480 pixels. It can play 720p videos and can multi-task.

Besides LG, Google also unveiled its handset called “Nexus One,” which it called the superphone. It is loaded with SnapDragon processor from Qualcomm and runs on Android 2.1. The device supports Voice-Recognition based keyboard and Voice to Text translation, hence, users have not to type to write e-mails, SMS, or message in Facebook, just speak.

Discussion

All the three devices are still to reach the market and therefore the real test for their usefulness will be calculated in near future. In the first week of its release, the Nexus One faced 3G connectivity problem. Desktops and laptops offer superior experience for web browsing, multimedia features and other utilities. Now, the question is can these devices take the places of such desktops and laptops.

In the last two years, netbooks had made substantial growth in the PC market and begun to take market share away from laptops possibly due to their featherweight designs and low prices. But, the devices lack key features like optical drive, have reduced specification and computing power.

In contrast, Tablet PCs offer an edge over netbooks with its touchscreen and use of digital pen or a fingertip, instead of a keyboard or mouse. Recently, Apple had ignited the tablet market by announcing its entry in the segment. It is reported that ASUS, Dell, Samsung are also planning to introduce their tablet PC by the next year. Therefore, consumers can soon expect small touch-screen tablets from all major PC vendors.

But, the question is will tablets kill netbooks and e-readers in 2010?

At present, Tablet PCs have a bad reputation. It is due to Microsoft’s unclear vision for the devices, which resulted in higher cost, slower input speed, unpleasant pen-based tablets, and risk for screen and hinge damage to users. The Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system lacks power.

But, after the introduction of several new mobile operating systems and cheaper components, the next generation of tablet PCs can outshine Netbooks in near future. The new Tablet PCs will have following new features that will make the devices to intersect other markets.

Now, use finger instead of pen

After the success of iPhone and other touchscreen mobiles, it is understood that actually touching the screen is far more appealing than using stylus, which requires different UI and software up gradation that Microsoft unwilling to do till Windows 7.

Due to the introduction of Swype technology and new mobile operating systems, the touch technology will make all the difference in the next generation Tablets.

Mobile phone operating systems

The new Tablet PCs will be powered by various mobile OSs like iPhone OS, Android etc, instead of Microsoft’s Windows. These operating systems will provide adequate software compatibility to the Tablet devices for accepting human touch and will make them cheaper, faster and more ultraportable than before.

Tablets or Big mobile phones

It is assumed that the next generation Tablets will be touch phones with large screen, therefore cheaper to build. Further, due to lesser-powered processors, small RAM, free operating system and smaller screens, the cost for manufacturing them will be similar to the netbooks i.e., cheap.

Applications and connectivity

Similar to the cell phone apps stores, Apple will certainly pour large number of applications to its touch tablets. Further, various other vendors will also join the race to encash the growing opportunity of apps platform.

Meanwhile, when tablets will be sold like Smartphones, then the connectivity feature will come in-built. Hence, consumers can carry the tablets like their mobile phones.

HD video and e-book concept

At present, people are watching internet TV rather than using the conventional one. Therefore, they require a cheap, high-quality tablet which will provide High Definition video on the move. Further, the Tablet PCs can be used as e-Book reader; hence, it will be a good option against Amazon Kindle or Sony PRS range.

Discussion

In Netbooks, you have to type on its small keyboard, which is somewhat problematic to professionals. Whereas, Tablet PCs can be a fold-up or roll-out and use a Bluetooth keyboard of your choice. It is true that they will provide more refined experience to its users, but besides its functionality, price does matter for its success.

In the last two years, netbooks had made substantial growth in the PC market and begun to take market share away from laptops possibly due to their featherweight designs and low prices. But, the devices lack key features like optical drive, have reduced specification and computing power.

In contrast, Tablet PCs offer an edge over netbooks with its touchscreen and use of digital pen or a fingertip, instead of a keyboard or mouse. Recently, Apple had ignited the tablet market by announcing its entry in the segment. It is reported that ASUS, Dell, Samsung are also planning to introduce their tablet PC by the next year. Therefore, consumers can soon expect small touch-screen tablets from all major PC vendors.

But, the question is will tablets kill netbooks and e-readers in 2010?

At present, Tablet PCs have a bad reputation. It is due to Microsoft’s unclear vision for the devices, which resulted in higher cost, slower input speed, unpleasant pen-based tablets, and risk for screen and hinge damage to users. The Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system lacks power.

But, after the introduction of several new mobile operating systems and cheaper components, the next generation of tablet PCs can outshine Netbooks in near future. The new Tablet PCs will have following new features that will make the devices to intersect other markets.

Now, use finger instead of pen

After the success of iPhone and other touchscreen mobiles, it is understood that actually touching the screen is far more appealing than using stylus, which requires different UI and software up gradation that Microsoft unwilling to do till Windows 7.

Due to the introduction of Swype technology and new mobile operating systems, the touch technology will make all the difference in the next generation Tablets.

Mobile phone operating systems

The new Tablet PCs will be powered by various mobile OSs like iPhone OS, Android etc, instead of Microsoft’s Windows. These operating systems will provide adequate software compatibility to the Tablet devices for accepting human touch and will make them cheaper, faster and more ultraportable than before.

Tablets or Big mobile phones

It is assumed that the next generation Tablets will be touch phones with large screen, therefore cheaper to build. Further, due to lesser-powered processors, small RAM, free operating system and smaller screens, the cost for manufacturing them will be similar to the netbooks i.e., cheap.

Applications and connectivity

Similar to the cell phone apps stores, Apple will certainly pour large number of applications to its touch tablets. Further, various other vendors will also join the race to encash the growing opportunity of apps platform.

Meanwhile, when tablets will be sold like Smartphones, then the connectivity feature will come in-built. Hence, consumers can carry the tablets like their mobile phones.

HD video and e-book concept

At present, people are watching internet TV rather than using the conventional one. Therefore, they require a cheap, high-quality tablet which will provide High Definition video on the move. Further, the Tablet PCs can be used as e-Book reader; hence, it will be a good option against Amazon Kindle or Sony PRS range.

Discussion

In Netbooks, you have to type on its small keyboard, which is somewhat problematic to professionals. Whereas, Tablet PCs can be a fold-up or roll-out and use a Bluetooth keyboard of your choice. It is true that they will provide more refined experience to its users, but besides its functionality, price does matter for its success.

On today’s market, the cheapest mobile PCs that one can buy are those entry-level systems known as netbooks. These products are known for their lack of advanced computing and graphics, but they have long Lenovo 3000 G400 Battery lives and, most importantly, low prices (under $500/500 Euro). As such, when a 15.4-inch notebook shows up and has a price tag lower than that of most such laptops, consumers usually end up stumped. This is exactly what Lenovo reportedly enabled with its IBM 3000 G530.

The iPad is ravaging tablet sales and HP(HP dv8000 Battery)’s slate is supposedly canceled, which means that the slate market itself has become quite a bit smaller. However, seeing how there are many companies of all sizes that hope to be propelled by this newborn market, it will only be a matter of time before the segment swarms with contenders. Aigo seems to be one of the companies with a better chance at leaving a lasting impression, if its upcoming slate does actually have the specs reported by Pcpop.

Here’s a tale of two laptops, both priced at $500 — the Asus K60I-RBBBR05 and the Toshiba(Satellite L100 Battery) Satellite L505-ES5018. Both of them provide excellent performance for the price. If you’re looking for a budget laptop that delivers, these two are worth considering.

PC suppliers have a habit of making sure that, each time Intel, NVIDIA or AMD unleashes a new technology, at least one of their products is ready to integrate it. When these three CPU and GPU giants take a break, however, it falls on PC makers to periodically refresh their product lineups in order to maintain consumer interest. Most recently, Dell(Latitude C400 Battery) decided that it was time for its Inspiron line to get some new members and, as such, added several new models to its official website.

The small HP Mini 210 HD netbook from HP delivers an excellent display, lightweight build, and a variety of features. With the recommended upgrades, the Mini 210 is fast for internet surfing, has an easy to type keyboard, and features a vibrant screen. This article will review the HP(HP DV2000 Battery) Mini 210 HD with the recommended configuration upgrades by providing the pros and cons, and will make a final analysis of whether or not the netbook is worth the price.

Sony’s Vaio EB1Z0E is one of the best looking laptops around, with its sleekly understated black chassis. We expected a lot from Sony(Sony VGP-BPS2A Battery)’s latest and the EC1S1EB delivers on all fronts, with a range of features that’s among the best we’ve seen from any laptop in this price range.

If you have ever seen those obnoxious TV commercials, then you’ll know that there are apparently people who consider themselves “a Mac”, and those that are a “PC”. Me? I’m a PC. I’ve got a lot of reasons to be a PC, but the main one is that I always want the best my money can get me, without having to compromise. Despite being a longtime PC user, one aspect of the Mac world always makes me jealous – Mac’s are gorgeous computers. Sure, they come with a matching price tag, but you always pay for style.

With a maximum thickness of 25mm and a weight of less than 2.2kg the MSI X600 215UK MS-1691 is surprisingly portable for a 15.6in model. Toshiba(Satellite U200 Battery)’s T130 may be smaller and lighter – but it’s only a 13.3in model.

The HP G61-410SA’s keyboard sits above a silky-smooth silver wrist rest incorporating a touchpad which reveals itself only as a shallow seamless depression in its surface. Rather than attempt what can often turn out to be a clumsy ‘multi-touch’ implementation, HP(HP NC4400 Battery) has gone for a traditional single-finger device, with a dedicated scrolling section down the right-hand side.

Speaking at Intel’s European Research conference here in Brussels, company vice president Dr Wen-Hann Wang said current laptop batteries were larger they need be because they are required to retain enough wattage for the most demanding applications (such as 3D rendering), even though only a fraction of that power draw was required for most tasks.