Notebook Computer VS Laptop Computer

  You may be wondering what's the difference between a notebook and a laptop computer? The answer depends on who makes it. Some Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM's) call their mobile computers laptops and some call them notebooks. The terms are often used interchangeably. Lately, an new breed of terms have been popping up. Terms like deskbooks and Tablet PC's.

My personal distinction between a laptop and a notebook is this:

Laptop computers somewhat larger than notebooks and will accommodate a built-in disk drive unit and; optionally, a floppy drive unit. That is, a CD ROM drive is either built into the unit or the unit has a built-in bay that will accommodate a removable CD ROM drive.

Notebook computers will allow you to attach, via a cable, a CD ROM drive. Since the drive is not built into the unit, notebooks are smaller and lighter than laptops.

Deskbook computers often refer to mobile computers that can be considered as desktop replacement units. Deskbooks tend to be larger and heavier than average notebook/laptop computers. Generally the display units are 15 inches or larger. They tend to draw down battery power relatively quickly due to their powerful, but power-hungry, processors. If you are looking for the power of a desktop unit, with the freedom of mobility, then a deskbook may fit the bill.

Tablet PCs allow you to capture handwriting on your PC. Being a tablet means that it is much more mobile than laptops or desktops. You can do the things you do with a PC (read, web surf, email, etc.) in more situations (sitting without a desk, standing, etc.)

Processor types play a major role in the type of mobile computer used. The grid below will help you discern the differences. Note that the processor names are closely named and are easily confused.

Type	Processor
Laptop	Pentium III Processor-M, Pentium 4 Processor-M
Notebook	Pentium III Processor-M
Deskbook	Pentium 4 Processor-M, Pentium 4 Processor
Tablet PC	Pentium 4 Processor-M, Pentium-M