Should I Buy Linux-Based Netbook?

November 28, 2008 - Tom Greer
Filed Under Netbook Market |

Linux-based netbooks are priced significantly lower than Windows-based netbooks. Friends often ask “Should I buy a Linux-based netbook?”

The answer depends on you and how you plan to use the netbook.

Reasons to Buy a Windows-Based Netbook

If you plan to install any of your existing Windows applications on your new PC.

The programs that you enjoy on your current Windows system will not run on Linux. While there are ways to make many of them work (via WINE or a virtual machine), the process is not simple and the programs will run slower.

If you are comfortable with Windows and don’t want to try something a little different.

In many ways, Linux desktops are very similar to Windows, so it is not difficult to make the change. However, for many, things are just enough different to be an irritant. If you are not willing to work through the learning curve, pay the extra to get a Windows-based system.

If you are a Windows power user.

Windows power users love to modify their systems to suit their own needs. Often, you look at their screens and think, “This is Windows XP?” If you are one of these, you will not be happy when the tweaks you know so well don’t work. Stick with Windows.

Reasons to Buy a Linux-Based Netbook

If you want to surf the Internet and read email with no worries.

I’ve been using Linux-based PCs for five years or more without anti-virus software and I have never had a single virus. Not even a single piece of adware has been secretly installed. Linux is simply more secure.

If you like exploring and learning new things.

If you welcome change and are willing to invest the time to learn something new, different and in some ways better. Then you will enjoy a Linux-based netbook.

If you are a first-time PC user.

If you are buying a netbook for Grandma who will use it for email and to explore the Internet for the first time, then Linux is perfect.

Linux is great for children as well. Kids learn Linux very easily.

If you like saving money.

If your primary motivation for considering Linux is saving money - and you really fit one of the Windows groupings above, then you will feel like you made a sacrifice. Perhaps you will grow to like Linux.

But if you fit any of the Linux groupings above, then this is an added bonus that you are going to love, now and in the future.

One last thought, many people use their netbook much like a cell phone or blackberry. It comes with everything you need. You simply turn it on and use it. It really does not matter which operating system is underneath. If this is you, then choose Linux.

On the other hand, if you plan to use your new netbook like a laptop - and you are accustomed to using Windows, then get a Windows-based netbook.

I hope this helps.

2008 Trend: Netbook OS Linux to XP Which Netbook Is Right For Me?Netbook Price Comparison Guide How Acer Became The Top Netbook Maker Netbook Price Comparison Guide Enhanced