Laptop, Netbook or Tablet?
Portables have been outselling desktop computers for years. They take up less room, are relatively inexpensive and even an entry level model will easily handle basic web browsing, video, music and word processing functions we require on a day to day basis. What is the difference between a laptop, netbook and tablet? Which one should you get? Glad you asked, keep reading.
What is a netbook? 
I will start with netbooks, since they're very popular right now.
A netbook is a very small, very light laptop computer. While a typical laptop has a 13 to 17-inch display, netbook's are between 7 and 10 inches and weigh very little. Netbooks became popular a few years ago with the launch of the 7-inch Asus EeePC.
The compact dimensions mean that netbooks barely make a dent in a bag and the battery life can be outstanding, with many models running for eight hours or more off a full charge. This is the main draw of a netbook you have a computer running a proper operating system that can last the entire day.
The small size is also a downside, though. The keyboard and the display are cramped so it can be uncomfortable to use for long periods. They also run slower than standard size laptops, ruling out any games with a lot of graphics, demanding applications and sometimes high definition video. And don't forget that netbooks do not generally include DVD drives.
The good
Compact size and light weight
Low price
Long battery life
The bad
Small display
Cramped keyboard
What are laptops?
They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from ultra-thin 12 and 13 inch models up to gaudy 20 inchers.
Compared to a netbook a laptop is much more comfortable to use for long periods thanks to the larger screen and keyboard and you can do a lot more with them. The components used are often comparable to desktop PC hardware, if not identical on bigger laptops, so gaming, video editing and other power-hungry tasks are easily possible.
You may hear the term desktop replacement being thrown around when talking about larger laptops. That's an easier way of saying that a laptop is too heavy to be carried around and the battery will last about half an hour. Assuming you don't need anything portable, desktop replacements are worth considering as an alternative to desktops since they don't need as much room but can still be just as powerful. Plus you can pack them away in a desk drawer.
Then you have ultra-portable laptops, which are a hybrid of netbooks and laptops and where the line between the two gets a little fuzzy. Ultra-portables may be like the Apple MacBook Air, incredibly slim but missing key features like an optical drive.
For most people a 15 inch laptop will provide a good middle ground. They are cheap and small enough to cart in a book bag or laptop case yet still have enough features to replace the desktop PC at home. Just remember that the battery may only last a few hours, so have a spare on hand or remember to bring your power cable.
The good...
Huge variety of sizes and features
Powerful components
Can replace a desktop PC
The bad...
Battery life shorter than a netbook
Can be large and heavy
Often too hot to be used on your lap
Touchscreen tablets
Tablet PCs are laptops based on a touchscreen interface which are designed to be more practical than laptops in some situations, such as e-book reading or surfing the internet in bed. Go back a year and we wouldn't even be mentioning them, because until recently they were a niche product, but then Apple came along and did its usual thing of revolutionizing the market and suddenly tablets are in the news again.
You can buy a tablet PC running Windows now, but what you'll get is an expensive convertible laptop with a screen that swivels down over the keyboard. It's not going to work like the Apple iPad and will cost a lot more, too. The iPad is the first tablet with mass market appeal.
The iPad is an Apple netbook without a keyboard and we can expect the same slate form factor from competing manufacturers. So if you primarily want a netbook or laptop for mobile web surfing and entertainment, and aren't too bothered about computing power or getting a lot of work done, this is the way to go. The pros and cons of the iPad have been endlessly debated for many months now so we won't go into them here. If you're not sure the iPad is for you we'd recommend giving it a few months to see what else shows up because by the end of the year there'll be a flood of similar products on the market and you'll have a variety of choices.
The good...
Touchscreen interface
Great for entertainment and web browsing
Easy to use anywhere
Very portable
The bad...
Not usually very powerful
Convertible tablets are pricey and awkward
Touchscreens not ideal for typing
If you are interested in purchasing one, or if you need more advice to find the perfect one, contact Kotori Technologies today.
10 Ways to Protect your Laptop
During the holiday season, more people will be working away from the office or on the road. But beware; by taking that laptop with you, you have become a target for theft. If your laptop gets in the wrong hands, your company information is at risk, as well as any personal and financial information stored on the laptop.
Keep these 9 tips in mind when you are travelling with your laptop.
1.Avoid using computer bags. This only brings to attention that you are indeed carrying a laptop. Try disguising it a little by carrying it in a padded briefcase.
2.Practice Computer Security. For instance, never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case. This is like leaving your keys in the car and doors unlocked. If the thief doesnt have this information, he will have to work to get access, and may give up.
3.Carry your laptop with you at all times. Do not check it with your other luggage. Luggage gets lost every day; you dont want your laptop to be one of those. If travelling by car, it is best to lock it in the trunk.
4.Be aware of data security. An easy way to do this is encrypt your data. Encryption can give you another layer of protection, should your laptop be stolen. With most Windows programs, you can choose to encrypt files and folders. If someone were to get past the passwords and access your laptop, they cannot decrypt the files and see your information.
5.Keep your eye on your laptop. When going through security checkpoints, keep your eyes on the bag. Keep it with you until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. A lot of laptop cases look alike, and someone get confused and take yours in the shuffle.
6.Avoid setting your laptop on the floor. Setting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to lose it or forget it. If it needs to be set down, place it between your feet or against your leg. If it is touching you, you are aware of it.
7.Buy a laptop security device. If you need to leave your laptop in a room or at a desk, use a security cable to attach it to a heavy chair, desk, or table. This will make it much more difficult for someone to pick it up and walk off. There are also programs to track the laptop when it connects to the internet and reports the exact physical location.
8.Use a screen guard. These guards help prevent people from looking over your shoulder and spying on your work. This is very useful if you need to check your bank balance in the crowded airport lobby.
9.Try not to leave your laptop in your hotel room or with the front desk. Lots of things get lost in hotel rooms and they are not completely secure. If you must leave it, hang the do not disturb sign on the door. This may help to keep others out of the room.
10.Be careful with wireless networks. Do not attempt to connect to your banking website (or other confidential information sites) through a wireless connection, unless it is a secure site using https.
Have a safe trip, but be careful with your laptop. The hardware may be easily replaced, but the data could be priceless. If you plan to travel a lot this season, please give Kotori Technologies a call for a checkup at 843-553-8800 or visit our website at www.kotoritechnologies.com for more information.
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