ive bought 3 systems from dell. all desktops, no laptops.

as for DELL: my experience is this. yes, component failures. good news was replacement parts were on fed-x for next day delivery. bad news was having to reload software etc.

as for big retail chains: bought compaq from best buys. yes, component failures. good news was none. bad news was system gone for weeks while BB sent to their service center for repairs. it was a terrible experience. just bought a compaq laptop from BB was extended warranty due to pricing/availability.

as for laptops: expect to pay approx $1500 for a CURRENT high spec model with 15"/P4M/512MB/50GB/DVD/CD-RW/etc.etc.etc. you could probably pay less than half that for a desktop. its been argued here that a desktop is a better cost effective solution. thats true. also that desktop is easier upgraded. also true. when was the last time you upgraded? yeah, thats what i thought.

display: the LCD on my compaq laptops are WAY better than any monitor ive ever had at home or at work.

portability: work in the living room, bedroom, dining, deck, pool, camping, friends, on the can (sick b#stard), ANYWHERE !!!

dell and gateway both have "closeouts" and refurb areas on their sites that offer pretty good discounts and selection of products.

if you have the bucks, i think you would be very happy if you get a QUALITY laptop. dont get a cheap generic mom and pop one.

upgrades: my experience is that if you have a system for several years, by that time, its more cost effective to replace than to upgrade.

i hope that helps some. - benton