A notebook computer, also known as a laptop, is a small, portable personal computer that can be easily transported and conveniently used in temporary spaces such as airplanes, libraries, temporary offices, and meetings. Notebooks are typically smaller than briefcases, weigh less than 5 pounds, and are 3 inches or less in thickness. They have a clamshell form factor with a flat panel display and a keyboard. Most of the computers internal hardware is fitted inside the lower lid enclosure under the keyboard, although many laptops have a built-in webcam at the top of the screen and some modern ones even feature a touch-screen display. Notebook computers generally cost more than desktop computers with the same capabilities because these portable computers are more difficult to design and manufacture. Notebooks include the following components:

• Embedded central processing unit, such as ones made by Intel or AMD.
• Motherboard.
• Operating system, most often a version of Microsoft Windows.
• Processors to handle peripherals and video displays.
• Keyboard.
• Cursor control device, typically a touchpad.
• Internal storage such as a hard drive or solid-state drive.

While the terms laptop and notebook are used interchangeably today, there are some questions as to the original etymology and specificity of either term. The term laptop was coined in 1983 to describe a mobile computer which could be used on ones lap, and to distinguish these devices from earlier and much larger portable computers. Although the term "notebook" originally referred to a specific size of laptop (originally smaller and lighter than mainstream laptops of the time), the term has come to mean the same thing and no longer refers to any specific size.