First, don't think laptop, think notebook. Laptops run hot and that heat causes the electronic components to break down quickly. Plus, you can't hold them on your lap or you'll burn yourself!

Think notebook, think centrino first.

Don't buy from best buy nor comp usa... they have a high return rate and they repackage and resell it. (Comp USA won't let you return anything without a large restock fee, even if the item doesn't work right- they expect you to continue to take a replacement.)

Circuit City is good, imo. You can also check pricing and capabilities with QVC.com and HSN.com Dell, HP, and my favorite Toshiba all have websites you can visit. Office Depot is convenient but outsources it's warranty service.

If you google notebook computers, comparisons or something to the effect, there are sites that will show you all that's available and you can compare that way.

Good wishes! Have fun!