It really depends on your own preference. You can check this website for more information www.pcmag.com/reviews/laptop-computers. I am sure it will help you decide which is better for you.
Laptops will give you more ability. You can get a DVD player with it and more memory and hard drive space. If you need something that is very small and portable and do not need a DVD then choose a netbook.
dont buy anything
If you have a laptop or netbook that comes with Windows 7 Starter, you will not have to buy or download the rest of it. Windows 7 Starter is a complete operating system. You can buy windows 7 for buy Microsoftprokey website
chicken
You can buy a new laptop/netbook for as low as $250 online. Just remember that these are not the most powerful systems and should only be used for basic functions.
eBay is your best friend. look for IBM thinkpads
If you are looking for an inexpensive netbook, I would probably try Wal-Mart first. The only downside is their limited selection. If you want more options I would try BestBuy.
IBM doesn't make laptops anymore. They spun-off their laptop division as a new company, Lenovo. Here's a link to their site: http://www.lenovo.com/xe/en/index.html
If you're looking for a "netbook", your best bet is to go to a store like Best Buy or a local computer shop.
If you are looking for a laptop and not a netbook, then the most inexpensive ones will be those with AMD processors. You can buy these for around $300 at Wal-Mart.
you should buy the ipad and cheap laptop.
One can purchase IBM Thinkpad T41 from Best Buy, Staples, Amazon, eBay. CNET website also provide this laptop at reasonable prices, so as thinkpaddepot website.