It does not matter where you buy the laptop from as long as it meets your needs. Personally, I prefer the following specs: Dual core processor - 64 bits if possible, but that would be way too expensive. 100 GB SATA hard-drive 2GB RAM - not sure which kind is better Dedicated video RAM - 512MB or more DVR +- RW Screen size - I would go for 17 inch if this is going to be desktop replacement, but 12 inch should be fine if you are going to be carrying it around all the time. Battery - 8 cell, and preferably not made by Sony (well, I'm sure you have heard) All this for around $1000 would be a good buy, me thinks.