The Netbook Computer's Days Are Numbered

A few years ago, the word netbook didn't really mean anything. But look at what it now represents: it is the savior of PC sales around the globe. These stripped down notebook computers trade power for mobility, but it is obviously a change that consumers haven't worried about. But guess what? All that is coming to an end, and I couldn't be happier!

As you might have figured already, there are some qualms I have with netbooks.

One big issue is that the pricing of these devices is highly inconsistent. Some of these netbook computers cost twice as much as regular notebooks with several times more power, speed, and features. Logically, that makes no sense whatsoever. But, quite ridiculously, consumers paid for them in 2009 anyways. However, analyzing the stupidity of consumeristic behavior is another blog in of itself. Still, paying more for less doesn't make sense, and consumers will eventually come around to realize that.

There is also the problem of size — these things are too small! I know I don't have the smallest hands in the world, but when friends of mine with ridiculously small hands can't type on these things, it makes wonder who these netbooks were created for. If a company is going to create a product, it might as well be usable from, if anything, an input perspective. These things can only get but so small before they become a pain to work with. And don't get me started on the screen sizes either. Yeah, size matters.

Today's netbooks simply are not the solution. They are overpriced pieces of hardware with yesteryear's performance. It feels like we are taking one step forward and two steps back.

But those are only a few of the issues I have with netbooks — there are many more where that came from, but I'll spare you the details.

However, it is understandable as to why people want netbooks: we like simple things. Many people fire up a computer and go directly to the browser and nothing else, which is why Google's Chrome OS is so interesting. But even I have my reservations about that.

The eWeek staff sums up the whole situation best with their coverage of the IDC PC Market Prediction for 2010:

The loser is the mininotebook, or netbook. The research firm says 2009 was the climax for netbook market growth and share, pointing to falling prices of portable PCs and lack of differentiation when stacked up against a fully loaded PC.

They even go on to say that desktops will possibly make a comeback, which certainly is the much better value. But I'm thinking more powerful yet affordable laptops from manufacturers like Asus, Toshiba, and HP will be making a big impact in 2010. Then again, there are also those tablet computers.

While this isn't as dramatic as the tablet vs. laptop debate, I think the end the netbook is on its way. Sure, sales will continue, and perhaps, miraculously, they might even improve in 2010, but eventually consumers will realize that netbooks in their current forms are a poor investment. At least, I hope they will.