Small and inexpensive netbooks were some of the most popular computers in the recession, wooing consumers with their portability and prices that were often below $400. Now with the economy improving, consumers will be asked to open their wallets to new styles of computers, including some costing a bit more.

Among the new offerings being unveiled at this week's International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas: lightweight, medium-sized laptops meant as a step above netbooks in price and performance. There also will be at least one "smartbook" — a tiny computer that combines elements of netbooks and so-called smart phones.

And while netbooks proved that there is an appetite for highly mobile computers, consumers will likely come to want more power and portability.