Buyers guide to netpads

What is a netpad? Well, think "netbook" with no keyboard – it's a small tablet PC that's primarily designed for browsing the web on the move and using touch-based applications.

A netpad is a small device that is used by many to replace a full size notebook or netbook when all the user really wants is the ability to surf the internet. The netpad is also known as a MID or mobile internet device. These little machines can be found in different sizes, but they usually have small screen sizes of 5in or under.

Many MIDs have screens sized like smartphones in the 3.5-inch and under range. Netpads were once thought to be the next big up and coming category of electronics but today the devices are not that popular. The reason is that the average user who wants to be able to surf the internet wherever they are simply buys a smartphone. However, with players like Amazon and Apple invigorating the eBook reader space with more web capabilities, the category is poised for a resurgence.

Some netpads offer integrated 3G connectivity, though typically, netpads only offer WiFi connectivity (which is a self-limiting feature!) These little machines sometimes have small slide out keyboards like smartphones or use on-screen keyboards similar to the iPhone.

Netpads offer slower performance than a notebook and are typically geared more towards long battery life rather than outright speed. The devices offer processors from a variety of companies, many of which don't make processors for notebook computers with names like Qualcomm and ARM common. You will find netpads powered by many processor brands.

A netpad might be appealing to the user who doesn't want a smartphone thanks to the added cost of a data plan – or simply wants a device with a bigger screen than a smartphone to browse the web while on public transport, for example. Several music players also fall into the netpad category, the iPod touch is the most notable. These machines also often feature the ability to play basic video games and may support instant messaging. Many netpads also allow users to load music and their own video content to use on the go. Prices vary greatly in the category and the netpad will often cost as much as a netbook.