Jack Schofield, on the Guardian Technology Blog, recently asked the question “Are netbooks extra devices, or PC replacements?” using a recent ABI Research study to highlight the results that 79% of respondents view a Netbook as a secondary device.

This is an interesting question as I have always considered the Netbook to be a secondary device, to support either a laptop or a desktop based computer. In that vein, to me at least, a Netbook is akin to a mobile device (enhanced mobile phone, PDA) with its distinguishing benefit being a larger keyboard and screen and more ready access to familiar applications.

Whilst Netbooks are certainly evolving, with their hard drives and larger screens, Netbooks certainly have more of a gadgety feel about them than something I might sit down and seriously attempt to do any work on.

If I am looking for a Netbook I really want:

• A small light compact device
• A long battery life (8hrs+)
• A small and light power unit/recharger
• Reasonable keyboard with a positive feel
• Good track pad or usable touch screen
• Access to the Internet and Internet applications (including Flash and Java)
• Connectivity options including USB and Bluetooth (to co-ordinate data with my master device)

Pretty much everything else is just a nice to have.

What are your thoughts? Can the current wave of Netbook really replace a laptop?

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