I'd probably analyze what you want here. List it out...
1. What do you want to spend?
2. Do you want constant maintenance?
3. What do you want to do with it? If it's graphics, etc, you'll be paying more as a higher end video card for a laptop will push the price up.
4. Does it need to be light?
5. What if it breaks???? Warrantly, you'll pay for this as well. Don't go less than a 3 year warranty (probably buying new in this case).
6. How long do you expect to have this machine? When will you buy another one? Keep this in mind as you might want to spend more if you want this machine for more than 2 years.
Major price factors:
Screen size and resolution (largest cost is right here, bar none)
Warranty
Processor
Video Card
Mac vs. PC (macs are higher, period)
Dell makes a VERY solid laptop at a very reasonable price. They are known for top quality customer service, though in the past year or two they've pushed much of their support oversees and it's not as good as it was.
IBM thinkpads are sensational laptops but are spendy. They work, they're reliable, they're time tested, but they're spendy.
Macs are sensational tools but are again spendy. They're reliable, not as suseptible to viruses, spyware, etc, and thusly easier to just use with less maintanence. This is nice. They are also spendy... did I mention this?
IF cost is an issue, and you want new... get a Dell, don't pass go...
IF cost is an issue and you want to go used, there are various places to find good deals, but you run the risk of not having a warranty or not having a long warranty and who knows. If you're PC/laptop savvy, this isn't as much of an issue and you can get by much easier.
If you want some more help or opinions, you can ALWAYS hit me up on MSN or AIM... "
[email protected]" for MSN or aim is "penguit"
I'd be glad to take some time and we can find something that'll fit.
Later bro!
FYI -- I'm a senior network admin who's been in the computer industry for 9 years, since I was 18. I've done hardware for many years, and have worked with most laptops, desktops around. I've built hundreds, bordering on 1000 of machines from the ground up. Just so ya know, I've got some experience... ****, I don't know it all though, that's for damn sure
And yeah, everybody has their own opinions. There are safe bets or you can gamble. Depends what you want to spend, and what you want to gamble on.