Netbooks making laptops cheaper, gaining favor with older users

Over the past few years computer manufacturers have fully embraced the netbook, churning out innovative designs, low cost computers and even adding long battery life and HD video viewing on some models.

While netbooks still aren't for everyone they have had an effect on the laptop market that everyone, except computer manufacturers, can be happy about -- they've cut the cost of laptops in half including many in our Best Computer Deals of 2010 roundup.

A new study from PriceGrabber analyzed the average price of laptops from December 2006 through this past holiday season and found that the price had dropped from more than $1,000 to the current $600 price-point that many laptop hunters look for when they want a basic laptop.