Definition: netbook

A low-cost, entry-level laptop computer that weighs from two to three pounds. With screens in the 8"-10" range, netbooks are very convenient for email and Web surfing but are not suited for computation intensive tasks such as gaming and image editing. The term was coined by Intel in 2008 for machines based on its Atom microprocessor.

Netbooks first took off in Europe and then elsewhere; however, within a few years, they were challenged by tablets and smartphones. For categories of portables, see laptop. See subnotebook, Intel Atom and Ultrabook.

Laptop and Netbook

The Acer netbook on the right sports a 9" screen compared to its 15" big brother. Suited for light computing tasks, netbooks sacrifice keyboard and screen size for portability.