[philso]

Definitely get a "business class" laptop like one of the ThinkPads. Look for one that has a rigid metal frame. The frame prevents the motherboard from being flexed and ultimately breaking one of the components or solder joints. The consumer grade laptops flex like a cheap keyboard and will tend to lead a shorter life. A good alternative is an off-lease HP or one of the refurbished Dells from their Outlet Store. Many of the Dells have not even gone out to a customer. The Dell Vostro, we purchased 7 years ago is still going strong though I did have to replace the hard drive. If you do get one that has actually been used, you may want to replace the hard drive with a solid state one.