A Livable Compromise

Quick note on what a typical netbook would be like right now:

• Intel Atom CPU N270 processor @ 1.60 GHz
• 9''-10.1'' screens @ 1024 x 600 resolution
• 1 GB RAM
• 2-3 USB slots/ports
• integrated graphic chip
• SSD (flash-based)/hard drive disk 5400 rpm
  
• Wi-Fi B/G
  
• card readers
• microphone/headphone jacks

Keeping the purpose for using a netbook in mind, the specs are fine to live with. The key feature would be the card reader and USB jacks since most netbooks are lacking storage space, and the most prominent feature missing from a standard full-size computer is the optical drive. The optical drive is used for accessing and transferring data to and from the computer onto a disk (whether that'd be a DVD or CD). The importance of card readers and USB slots is that you have an alternate method in completing your task that would've been otherwise done via an optical drive.

If you already have a computer with an optical drive, you can transfer the disc's contents and files onto a USB stick or a flash memory card (e.g. Memory Stick PRO Duo). Take the card and connect it to the netbook's card reader/USB port to make the transfer. If you'd like, you can also purchase a portable optical drive when needed. If you're having trouble deciding whether you need an optical drive or not, simply ask yourself how often you ever use an optical drive. You may be surprised at how little you are dependent on it to get a task done.

In general, the optical drive would only be of important need if you don't have a computer already with an optical drive and you desperately need to depend on one to complete your tasks. Try considering other more convenient ways of completing your tasks like USB/memory cards.

On a further note, if disk space is limiting, u can opt for a portable hard drive of a bigger size-they're relatively light weight.