How Netbooks Could Make A Comeback In 2023

Sergio Alberto Romero, M.S.
3 min readMay 20, 2022
Photo by Hello I'm Nik on Unsplash

Netbook is almost a derogatory term these days within the world of technology but what if I were to tell you that by 2023, we’re all going to be rushing to our non-local web-based storefronts to pick up a Netbook? Sounds crazy doesn’t it, well hear me out for just a few minutes. Here’s why Netbooks are about to pop back up on the scene

Size

While the true definition of a Netbook is a little contested, I think we can all agree that the main idea behind a Netbook is generally a very small form factor laptop. If that’s fair, then we can start to make the argument that a large majority of tablets and computers will fall into this category of products over the next couple of years. Not only are designs getting smaller with slimmer and slimmer bezels but we’re also getting highly efficient pieces of hardware. Whether we’re talking AMD, Nvidia, Intel or ARM, all these organizations and manufacturers are in a bull run to not only create the most powerful hardware solutions but also to create the most energy efficient ones as well. All of this ultimately leads to our devices becoming so small that they’ll soon resemble the Netbooks of yesterday!

Form Factor(s)

Whether we’re talking about foldables, dual screen devices or something like the Steam Deck/Nintendo Switch, we’re currently going through one of the greatest renaissances in terms of computing form factors. The best part about all these very experimental takes on computers is that they all seem to focus on comfort and portability. While the desktop computer will certainly continue to live on for a few more years, it’s becoming increasingly clear that mobile computing is the way to go. That being said, Netbooks were clearly ahead of their time in the mobile computing landscape. If Netbooks had launched in 2022 with the efficiency that current configurations offer today, they would certainly have made a greater impact on the market for longer. So, with all these funky form factors at play right now, what’s stopping these manufacturers from bring back the infamous Netbook?

Final Thoughts

While I definitely agree that Netbooks were a very low point in terms of computing hardware and overall quality I also believe that they were simply ahead of their time. With all the progress that has been made with display technologies, wireless connectivity and of course efficient computing power, I believe the time is now for Netbooks to make a return! These were my thoughts on the potential for a Netbook revival, now I want to hear from all of you! Do you think Netbooks could survive in today’s competitive computing market? What would a Netbook in 2022 look like? Sound off with your thoughts and comments down below to let me know what you think!

Sergio Alberto Romero, M.S.

The elements compose a magnum opus. My modus operandi is amalgam.