The terms laptop and notebook are often used interchangeably to refer
to any mobile computer. Not everyone agrees on what the differences are
between these two terms, or if any exist. However, the conventional
difference between a laptop and notebook is that notebooks were so-named
to differentiate this class of mobiles as ultra-light, ultra-thin, and
highly portable, compared to original laptops that were comparatively
cumbersome. With the advancement of mobile technology, laptops have
evolved into what was previous considered a notebook, explaining why the
terms have become interchangeable.
Today's ultra-light mobiles
that retain full operating systems and functionality are referred to as
subnotebooks or ultraportables. Some models do not include a CD/DVD player, and can be used with an optional docking station
to enhance features. The specifications that qualify a notebook to fall
into this category can be somewhat arbitrary but in general the machine
will be significantly smaller and lighter than the average laptop and
notebook. High-quality, power-efficient components also yield longer
periods between battery charges. These favorable attributes make
ultraportables two to three times more expensive than their larger,
heavier counterparts.
Mid-class mobile computers generally weigh close to six pounds (2.72
kg) with screens 15-17 inches (~38-43 cm) measured diagonally. Keyboards
are roomy, and the included DVD player might have Blu-ray capability.
USB and Firewire ports, built-in WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, a Webcam,
and a flash card reader have become standard in all but a few of the
most affordable machines, with prices starting at about $400 US Dollars
(USD). Computers in this class have essentially become desktop
replacements, blurring yet another distinction previously made to
classify desktop mobiles as extremely heavy models geared towards
features rather than portability, though some laptops are weightier.
At the lighter end of the mid-class line are standard mobiles that
balance the features of mid-class against against the portability of
subnotebooks. The standard laptop might have a 14-inch (35.56cm) LCD and
weigh in at five pounds (2.27kg), though these parameters are only
generally representative.
Netbooks (versus notebooks)
are the smallest and most portable class of laptop and notebook
computers, providing a low-priced alternative for online surfing and
basic applications. Netbooks do not come with a CD/DVD drive, but they
commonly include built-in WiFi, Ethernet, USB ports, a flash card
reader, a Webcam, and headphone and microphone jacks. Most displays are
6-10 inches (15.24-25.40cm), and prices start at about $250 US Dollars
(USD).
Within each of these classes; ultraportables, standard, mid-class and
netbooks, there are models that fall between adjacent classes. An
ultraportable at the heavier end of its class, for example, or a netbook
at the larger and beefier end of its class might both be considered
standard laptops by some. Models at the boundaries of classifications
might be marketed as the more desirable classification for obvious
reasons. Other classifications not mentioned here also exist, such as
rugged laptops for military or field use, and the ultra-small
subnetbooks, which can feature displays as small as 2.8-inches (7.11cm).
