Business Netbooks

Portable netbooks for business professionals

Netbooks traditionally aren't a good choice for multimedia or high-end business tasks, which require more power than the average value-priced netbook can provide. Most netbooks with an Intel Atom dual-core processor and 1 GB of RAM can't handle high-definition video streaming, extensive data crunching or graphics work. If you need extensive computing power for serious 3D gaming or video editing, a full-size laptop will be a better bet than a netbook; see the ConsumerSearch report for some suggestions. However, netbooks can be a good choice for business professionals who need a portable laptop for staying connected on the road. If you only need a computer for browsing the Internet, sending emails or creating basic Word or Excel files, any newer netbook model is an acceptable alternative.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X120e (*Est. $400 and up) delivers similar performance to the well-regarded HP Pavilion dm1z at a similar price. In fact, the HP dm1z and the X120e are typically neck and neck in most performance benchmark tests, with one or the other winning by a nose. Though most give the overall edge to the HP netbook for its richer features, they also say that there is no better keyboard on the market than the X120e's Chiclet design, making it a great choice for the business user on the go.

While cheaper versions are available, most reviewers recommend the Lenovo ThinkPad X120e 05962RU (*Est. $450) . Equipped with AMD's E-350 Fusion processing unit, the X120e can handle most business tasks with aplomb, reviewers say. Configurations can vary, but typically it includes 4 GB of RAM, a 320 GB hard drive, gigabit Ethernet and Windows 7 Professional. As with all netbooks, you won't get an included optical drive, and its webcam is lower-resolution than some. The X120e is also heavy for a netbook at 3.3 pounds.

Among reviewers, PC World gives the Lenovo ThinkPad X120e a "business ready" rating and 4 out of 5 stars, writing that it has "the best keyboard in the business" and that it is "one of the best netbooks ever." That keyboard sentiment -- which is extremely important for business users -- is echoed by Cisco Cheng at PCMag.com, who calls it "best in class." Joanna Stern of Engadget.com agrees, and she also praises the X120e's high-definition display, which features a matte finish that's a major plus when working under bright office lights. Battery life is good; most reviewers report 5 hours. Allen Ngo of NotebookCheck.net runs a series of tests under different conditions and finds battery life that ranges from 2.5 hours (high use, full brightness, every option turned on) to almost 10 hours (no wireless, minimum brightness, energy-saving profile).

Business users seeking a value-priced netbook might consider the Acer Aspire One 722 (*Est. $330 and up) . Its keyboard is its major flaw for business users; multiple reviewers note that it has some flex during typing. However, it has a large, bright high-definition screen for client presentations and superior battery life (7 hours in reviewer tests). It's also slim, at 1-inch tall, though it still weighs in at 3.3 pounds.

The Acer Aspire One 722 is available in a host of fixed retail configurations. A recent refresh upgraded the dual-core AMD C-50 processors to AMD C-60 processors, but the C series processors aren't as capable as the AMD Fusion processor used in the Lenovo ThinkPad X120e, so performance won't be as good. However, it still outperforms netbooks using dual-core or single-core Intel Atom processors. Depending on the configuration, RAM ranges between 2 GB and 4 GB, and hard drive sizes range from 250 GB to 500 GB.

Though most experts look at more expensive versions with larger hard drives and more RAM than offered in the base configuration, most reviews are generally complimentary, especially of the 722's value. Laptop Magazine calls the Acer Aspire One 722 "a solid pick for bargain hunters," while CNET says  it is "more powerful than a netbook." PCMag.com gives the Acer netbook 3.5 out of 5 stars and a generally positive review, while TechReviewSource.com gives the netbook to 3 out of 5 stars, noting its uncomfortable keyboard and mediocre performance.