Those needing to work on the move have never had it so good. Once restricted to a notebook, they now are spoilt for choice between notebooks that combine desktop-like functionality with mobility, netbooks that are not quite as powerful as desktops but are much more portable than increasingly bulky notebooks, and smartphones that may have smaller displays and keypads but slip into a pocket, while keeping users connected. As the lines between the three continue to blur, a good deal of confusion has set in as to which is the best mobile computing option. As always, there is no clear answer-each device has its own advantages as well as shortcomings.

We have attempted to clear matters up by devising a simple Q&A session. Just pick the answer that most closely describes your situation and we will try and pinpoint the device that meets your needs the best:

1. Is the device going to be
a) Your main computer .
b) A more mobile version of your main computer.
c) Not meant to be a computer replacement at all, but purely a device that keeps you in touch on the move, while providing some basic computing features.

2. What do you plan to use your mobile computing device most for?
a) Major data processing, video editing, program development, apart from regular features like browsing the Internet, chatting online and Office suite applications
b) Regular net access and office suite applications
c) Mainly e-mail and some Internet browsing

3. How important a factor is portability for you?
a) Not of paramount importance. The device should be easy enough to carry, although I do not plan to carry it around too often.
b) Very important. I intend to carry it around almost everywhere with me. Would prefer if it did not require a special carrying bag of its own.
c) Vital. It should be light enough to carry around and should not add much to my travel baggage, while allowing me to work just about anywhere.

4. In terms of processing power and specifications, should your device be
a) Almost as powerful as a desktop, with a large display and spacious keyboard and mouse.
b) Powerful enough to view videos, use Office suite applications and browse the net.
c) The specs do not matter as long as it gives me access to the Internet and email on the move.

smartphone	Netbook	Notebook

5. How important is being connected to the Internet?
a) Important, but not really essential. Most of the work will be done offline.
b) Very important. Will be spending most of the time online.
c) Vital. Being accessible constantly on the mail is essential!

6. Do you plan to connect a lot of peripherals to your device?
a) Definitely-everything from a printer to a scanner to a projector. The device is going to be a hub of sorts.
b) Not too many. For the most part, the device will be working on its own, but it should have connectivity options, should the need arise.
c) Almost none. This is a stand-alone device, except for emergencies!

7. How much multimedia (video and audio) do you intend to use on your device?
a) Lots. Will be gaming, watching films and doing major presentations on it.
b) A bare minimum – mainly while browsing the net or viewing attachments.
c) Almost not at all. The device will be used almost totally for viewing text.

8. How will you be transferring data to and from your device?
a) In every possible way-by burning DVDs, USB drives, e-mail attachments, memory cards, online storage, et al.
b) Mainly by portable storage devices such as thumb drives and storage cards.
c) Will not be transferring too much data from the device.

 9. What kind of battery back-up would you be needing?
a) Not too much. Anything in the vicinity of 2-3 hours would do.
b) Need enough to last out a decent flight. Nothing less than 5 hours.
c) Need a device that will keep ticking over for almost the entire day even if I do not keep it plugged in.

10. And now for the bottomline, what is your budget like?
a) Above Rs 30,000
b) Rs 15,000 –Rs. 30,000
c) Upto Rs 15,000

All answered? Now, read below to find out what fits your needs the best
Mostly a): What you need is a powerful notebook that is almost a desktop replacement. It will not be cheap or light, but will be a powerhouse
Mostly b): Your needs are more towards a device that is light enough to be carried around and yet powerful for most basic computing tasks. We would recommend a netbook to you.
Mostly c): You are a smartphone candidate, needing to be connected all the time with minimum fuss.
If you end up choosing two options a similar number of times (say four 'a's and four 'c's), we think you just need to define your needs a bit more clearly.