Netbooks continue to drive the overall European PC market with sales of the smaller form factor through distribution powering up 37.7 per cent annually in November.

According to Context, distributors in Europe’s top 14 economies shipped 420,000 netbooks last month. The mini form factor now makes up 22 per cent of all PCs being sold through distribution across the region and 30 per cent of all notebook sales.

Context’s figures also exposed the polarisation of the competitive landscape, with Acer and Asus way out in front with a 26 per cent share of unit shipments each.

However, it was Samsung that held the lead in the UK with 43.3 per cent market share. Acer was second on 24.2 per cent with Asus a distant third on 11.1 per cent share.

Context co-founder Jeremy Davies said the smaller form factor remains in vogue.

“Netbooks are still in fashion and offer an affordable entry into portable computing especially for buyers with tight budgets,” he said.

“In addition to this, mobile operators are offering subsidised entry by offering netbook deals through relatively small monthly payments.”