I like how everyone is like fuck Dell, get the IBM/Lenovo and there is a good reason. As far as laptops go, I always suggest Lenovo, good price, solid laptops. I usually recommend against HP/Compaq and Dell. If you want to go fancy go with ASUS and if you want to save a buck and get something cheap but still better than HP/Dell get an Acer. I've owned HPs, Compaqs, Dells, Acers, ASUS', and Lenovo. The two laptops I currently have is an ASUS Tablet/Laptop and a Lenovo, the one with a broken screen Acer, and the HP, Compaq and Dell are in the garbage.
Also the majority of laptops that get taken to me for repair from family and friends are usually HP/Compaq and Dell