Desktop vs Netbook Computers: A Detailed Study

The desktop vs Notebook Computers war can be traced back as early as 1970s, when the concept of portable computers was born. The desktops dominated the scene of computers for quite some time with their large processing power and mammoth memory space, which seemed to be on an exponential rise year after year. However, despite desktops offering far more processing power for the same amount of green, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that laptops (also known as Notebook Computers) have been outselling them by a substantial margin for the past few years.

The concept of a Netbook Computers can be traced back all the way to the 1970’s, but it wasn’t till the 2000’s that the idea really materialized. This was only made possible due to the shrinkage in the size of transistors (fabrication process) which occurs every two years. The processors manufactured with the new fabrication process always offer lesser power consumption and heat dissipation than their predecessor, and also the ability to fir more transistors on the same die, resulting in better performance.  In the early years of the millennium, Laptops were overly expensive and seemed like a luxury for the upper class. But in the years that followed, the gap between desktops and laptops was further bridged.

There was a time when notebook computers were synonymous with portability, not any more. Consumer demands constantly evolve, and these notebook computers just wouldn’t cut the edge any more. Not everyone would find it convenient to carry a laptop (with or without a case), when they’ve got a bag or briefcase filled to the brim in the other hand.  It might be perhaps for this very reason that many were ready to sacrifice computational power for a smaller form factor, and hence, the mini netbook was born.  Ranging in screen sizes from 7" Computer to 11", these devices gave a whole new meaning to portability. Despite its miniscule size, these mini netbooks made no compromises when it came to basic work functions such as using MS Office Documents or Internet surfing. 

They didn’t burn a hole in the wallet either.  As the years passed by, mini netbooks paved the way for many more portable devices such as Smartphones, and of course, tablets. These devices continue to offer more and more in terms of functionality and features, while still maintaining its small form factor.  Most thanks go to Operating Systems such as Windows Mobile, iOS and Android which are constantly updated. 

Despite these recent advances in notebook computers, one still can’t ignore the gigantic computing powers that are encapsulated within the domain of a traditional desktop. Hence it’s a no wonder that specialists, such as gamers or multimedia creators, still prefer desktops over the laptops. In the end however, it all depends on the type of customers. Working professionals would use mini netbooks to keep track of their office works, and users requiring more performance at less cost would stick with Desktops.