What Is the Difference Between a Laptop & a Notebook?

Laptops and notebook computers are essentially the same, but that was not always the case.

Portable computers were designed to provide computing with mobility. Created to carry and use anywhere, laptops and notebooks allow technology to travel with the user. There once were differences between the two, but that is no longer the case.

Original Versions

In 1982, when the first laptop and notebook computers were introduced, they were two different products. Laptop computers were created to allow all the power of a desktop in a portable package. High powered and with much the same hardware as a desktop, older laptop computers were somewhat bulky. In contrast, original notebooks were built for extreme mobility, and their design was stripped down to make a small light unit to carry. They had smaller displays; less dynamic sound and graphics; and less powerful capabilities and hardware than a laptop.

Advances in Technology

As hardware advances have made equipment faster, better and more compact, the difference between a notebook and a laptop have nearly disappeared. More technology can be fit into a smaller device, meaning notebooks no longer have to compromise power for size. Laptops by nature have evolved to look and feel more like a notebook, bringing the two pieces of equipment into the same category.

Name Association

Currently the focus is on shifting product recognition, and, for that reason, some companies now steer clear of calling their product a laptop. Images of hot bulky laptops associated with the name have cause manufacturers to label many of the newer lines of portable computers notebooks while playing up their speed, power and lightweight designs.

References

• Webopedia: Laptops and Notebooks
• Random History: History of the Laptop Computer