As it happens, notebook-laptop computers have been catching up to their desktop based cousins in terms of affordability and performance while taking up a lot less space. Once notebook-laptop computers were rarely used except by those who had a genuine need for them, such as business people headed out on the road for meetings. These computers were far less powerful and their battery lives left a lot to be desired, to understate the case. Older laptops were really not all that useful beyond being able to run basic word processing programs and access email on the go.

Notebook-laptop computers have certainly come a long way since then and are now available in any size which suits your purposes. While it’s definitely possible to spend thousands on a high end notebook-laptop computer, there are many choices which offer a price tag comparable to that of a desktop computer without sacrificing performance. You can find notebook-laptop computers which are more than up to the task of processor intensive work like video production and graphic design; and all of the latest generations of laptops are extremely portable and energy efficient with much longer battery life than you might expect from a portable.

Modern notebook-laptop computers fit comfortably into a standard briefcase or backpack, with sizes from ten inch netbooks to widescreen models which are ideal for graphic design work or watching movies. The smallest of the newer notebook computers can weigh as little as two pounds – some of these models are incredibly streamlined as well, being less than an inch thick! These ultra streamlined models are of course the high end of the market, but it’s easy to find notebook-laptop computers which fall into the middle, offering a manageable size and weight and high performance at low prices. With the technology used in portable computers becoming increasingly sophisticated and the competition ever fiercer, prices will continue to drop.

Battery life has always been something of a bte noir for the users of notebook-laptop computers. However, there have been a number of innovations in battery design and energy efficient component which have resulted in laptop batteries which can power your notebook-laptop computer for as long as eight hours! Just imagine being able to use your laptop for a full work day and only need to recharge it at night! If you’ve ever scrambled to find an open outlet for your rapidly draining laptop battery, you can appreciate what an improvement this is.

Notebook-laptop computers use much less power than do desktop computers. Upgrading to a notebook-laptop computer instead of a desktop will save you a lot of money on your energy bills.

Notebook-laptop computers are also much more quiet because they are far more heat efficient. While you do still need to worry about overheating if you leave it wrapped in blankets for a few hours or something, a notebook-laptop computer produces less heat than a desktop because of the more efficient, low power processor. This means they have fewer, smaller fans, or in some cases they do not have any fans at all.

If it’s time to retire that old desktop of yours and get a newer, more powerful computer for your home, then the choice is obvious: it’s time to go portable and buy a notebook-laptop computer. With performance as good or better than an equivalent desktop, great portability and a lower cost of operation as well as the ability to get online in an increasing number of wireless hot spots, a notebook-laptop computer is the right choice.