You may need a mobile computer, but how much power do you require? The two biggest contenders for portable computing are netbooks and laptops. They both look the same, but the cost of the netbook is invariably much cheaper and its form factor considerably smaller. Before you decide to go with the cheapest option, be informed and know which machine is best for you.

Netbook Size and Weight

If you're looking for a machine with light computing power that doesn't weigh too much, a netbook is more than likely the right choice for you. A netbook looks and feels like a laptop, but it weighs several pounds less than its predecessor. The heaviest netbook weighs about three pounds. A laptop weighs five to ten pounds, depending on the size of the display and batteries.

A netbook is also much smaller than a laptop. A netbook can fit easily and snugly in a large bag, briefcase, or backpack. The light weight and small size make the netbook easy to lift and feels as if you are carrying a textbook. Laptops however, vary a lot in size depending on the width of the screen. They also require a larger bag, and most people are forced to purchase a laptop carrying case along with their new machine. If you're a student carrying lots of text books around campus, the extra burden of a heavy laptop might make moving between lectures a real drag.

Laptop Performance and Computing Power

Netbook computers are usually for people who need to type letters, browse the Internet away from home, or for quick documentation creation. The computing power of a netbook is improving monthly, yet still greatly reduced compared to a laptop. If you need to run memory intensive applications, the better choice is a laptop. Gamers, programmers and video designers are just a few people who won't appreciate the poor graphics, slower hard drive and reduced processor speed of the little netbook.

Affordable Cost

For people on a tight budget and no credit card, a netbook only costs approximately $200 to $500. Laptops range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Netbooks are good gifts for students, writers, and professionals who just need a portable computer for typical office work.

Some netbooks are discounted, and it is possible to find a used netbook for under $100 if you know where to look. Before taking the cheapest route, consider if a netbook has the computing power you need for running your mission critical applications. If all you want to do is browse the Internet from a remote location, then a netbook is sufficient. For those gamers and graphics gurus out there, a netbook might disappoint you. Best stick to a laptop for portable applications that require higher computing power.

Landon Eglwys writes about cheap laptops and netbooks, and is a regular contributor to www.Cheaperlaptop.com. The site provides information about mobile computers and a useful netbook buyers guide