I do not know if it is a laptop i want or a netbook.

Yes, you can access all those sites with a netbook. However, these are low-end, inexpensive mini notebooks, which for the most part, lack in power. They are basically used to AUGMENT a users other computer, as they are merely dedicated to general computing and accessing web-based applications. These are the "cheap" lap-tops if you will. For my money, you'd be better off purchasing the Laptop. It'll have the power you're more than likely used to, and you can still access the net. These other mini notebooks, or "netbooks" are somewhat of a novelty right now, that are sometimes freely given away as a bonus for purchasing a larger item, like a new King-sized mattress, or 56" LCD TV, etc....and the specs on then anyway are so similar, that the "average" shopper would probably be confused as to why one would be better than the other. They're just tiny, is all. Big deal. Don't get caught up in the novelty of this "cutsie" 13' notebook. Go with the Laptop. You'll be a lot happier in the long run, believe me. cdrxo

oh I think you should buy the most powerful laptop you can afford not because of the social sites only but most because you may have more important tasks for your own likings so why waste money only for social sites?

Hi jugsjugs, I think you should go for laptop. Netbook is too slow and too small I think. If you like writing then its very tired for your hand to type using netbook. I would prefer laptop than netbook. With laptop you can get a good spec and not slow.

i have decided on a netbook coz all i want to do on it is surf,buy on ebay and come to mylot,i've found a really cheap one from HMV £99.99,i'll get one in a few weeks i reckon,got to save up first

Hmmm. I had the same question a couple of months ago, and I ended up buying an acer aspire netbook. It's cool cause it's really small and lightweight. and we have the same needs, just to use it to surf the net... Though, if you're planning on doing other things with your netbook, then you might want to think about it.. And yes, the screen and the keyboard takes time to get used to.. but it's really cool. I'm loving mine.

Hi jugsjugs, you are right in asking for advice as to which one you should get because i had the same question when my daughter asked me for a laptop and when i showed her the little notebooks, she just said that they are not worth it and she is right, if you are going to spend some money on a computer then you might as-well spend it on a laptop that way you will not be disappointed they are better all round, and it will probably last alot longer, that`s what i am going to do.

You can basically do all of these things with a netbook. They work the same way as a laptop. The only difference is the size. The screen size for the netbooks are a lot smaller so it might take you a while to get used to it. That was the case with me. The smallness of the screen gave me headaches at first but I eventually got used to it. I also had a problem with the keypads. Because of the small size of the machine, the keys were cramped together so it took me a while to become accustomed to it too. Another thing you should consider is the price. They are a lot cheaper than laptops. I think you can get a netbook for around $250 these days.

Netbooks were primarily designed for such online activities (hence the name "netbook") so I guess it's all you need given your requirements. I'm actually using one now - an HP Mini 2140 - and it has become an indispensable part of my daily life. It's light enough to be brought on a commute, and unobtrusive enough to be used in class. I have videos on it, and I could even play a round of Neverwinter Nights when I feel like it. All in all, for you I'd recommend a netbook over a laptop.