Laptop computers used to be the ideal of young, and old, alike. A decade ago, the prices seemed preclusive for average families, and madness ensued at the hint of a deep discount sale. Since, though, prices on both laptop computers and desktops have dropped significantly, and have made computers a terrific birthday and holiday gift choice for children. Netbooks have really climbed in popularity in the last 3 years, and are an affordable for gifting to children. Further, the quality of netbooks have improved greatly, meaning that today, you get more for less.
If you are deciding on a laptop for a kid, vs. a netbook for a kid, there are some considerations to weigh, as both can be quite affordable, but management will not be completely equal. Since a netbook doesn't have a DVD drive, any supplemental DVD software will require an external DVD drive. This isn't a difficulty, but it does mean that your child won't be able to operate those programs on the go. For a homeschooling family using Switched on Schoolhouse software, the DVD drive is necessary. For the child who will use a netbook in more of a research and recreation capacity, this isn't a problem. A laptop incorporates a DVD drive, and may be a better choice in a kid's PC, if DVD's are to be used.
Size can be a problem with some laptop computers. A large laptop provides the most screen space, which is nice from an eyesight consideration. However, even adults have a tough time keeping a 17 inch laptop well balanced, when using it in a portable setting. I've experienced some serious close calls when my children (teens included) try to work with my laptop. 14-15" laptop computers reduce the screen size, but are a little more manageable for young computer owners.
A netbook tends to be in the 10 to 11 inch size range, which means much smaller area of vision. However, given many handheld devices children use today, this is still better by far than handheld video game sizes. The size is much easier to manage, and easier for stowing in a tote or backpack when you are on the road.
Whichever type of computer you select as a gift for your child, be sure to establish strong ground rules about where the computer is used, and where it shouldn't be taken. Kids like to do the unexpected, and it wouldn't be difficult to sneak a netbook into a school bag. Oversight is important for any type of computer for kid.
Read more about Tween Computer Choices.
Research the current bestselling netbooks at Amazon.
