Netbooks may not be as flexible as laptops in terms of usage and performance because of their modest features and specifications. But these small devices are undeniably useful to people who often need to keep in touch with their family, loved ones, and colleagues because of the easy email access. Netbooks also enable users to do basic computing tasks such as viewing and typing documents, listening to music, watching videos, browsing the Web, and even playing games. All these can be done using a less sophisticated machine that has a lower price tag than laptops.

Laptops are quite heavier and bulkier, but their capabilities that are comparable with a desktop computer compensate for their being less portable. Unlike in many netbooks, laptops allow watching videos in high resolutions, photo and video editing, and playing the latest 3D games with intensive graphics.

Laptops offer greater advantage when it comes to performance, but netbooks are more beneficial in terms of portability and affordability.