I'm one of those guys at work people come to with questions and help with their computers. I should make a business of it.
I do it for the love of them.
I'm a huge fan of Dell. I've had very good luck over the years. Not one has failed or let me down. ( I know my sampling is small compared to how many systems DELL makes, but it's still a positive record since the year 2002) I recommend checking out Dell's outlet store. I've purchased a number of laptops and monitors from there, and I've been pleased with each purchase. So have co-workers and friends.
Here is a 20% off "code" you can use till 09-10-10 or until 10,000 uses of the code have been cashed in. Dell 20% off code
9RJ5SV0QB$$GTM
Dell's outlet website... http://www.dell.com/us/en/dfh/notebooks/inspnnb/ct.aspx?refid=inspnnb&s=dfh&cs=22
I highly recommend you stay with an
Intel processor. I know the AMD's are cheaper, but they are so for a reason. I've built a few AMD systems, and everyone had dependability issues. I've also worked a few Toshiba's with AMD, and they too had poor performance. If it's my money, I shy away from AMD. It's my personal experience, I'm sure there are those who've had very good luck, but it's not what I've seen.
Acer is now the number 2 computer manufacture in the US market second to Dell. I like the Acer units I've worked on or used.
HP also makes a fine computer, and has good backup and restore functions built in.
Bottom line, DELL is still top of my list when shopping for a laptop. Especially when you score one of these 20% coupons. 10% or 15% is more common with Dell.
Good luck in your search