The very first thing you want to consider when buying a laptop either with or without a budget is: what are you going to use it for? You have to keep in mind your future needs of the machine and remember that the only things you can really upgrade are the hard drive and RAM.

For instance, if you are using the laptop for gaming you’ll want something with a better video card and a faster processor. Ram is inconsequential at this point, it’s always possible to upgrade later (and usually for much cheaper).
If you’re using the laptop to store music, movies and pictures look for a laptop that has a large drive off the bat. Something in the 250GB-320GB range.
If you’re considering a laptop for mobile entertainment (again, movies and music but on the go) consider a laptop with a larger screen (15.4 vs. 13.3) and a larger drive. You may also want to consider the weight of the system.
If you’re only going to use the machine for everyday items like using the internet, emails, word processing etc. Then you can choose any laptop from almost any category and be safe.

Also, you may want to keep in mind the length of time you plan on having the laptop for vs. what you will be doing with it for that time. Because the technology word is ever upgrading you may want to spend the few extra bucks and get a machine with a better processor or video card (if you can). It will help you stay on the current edge a little longer.

And, if I could offer one suggestion for a laptop (not knowing your budget is the hardest part but I will offer this anyway).
The Dell Studio Series. The 15 inch has great specs and upgrade options and the 17″ was given very good ratings for it’s class and size. They are both also under $1000.

hope this help.

Top Brands -

* VAIO **** (sony) (Buyers: Females ;P, Designers, CEO’s, Graphic/Art Workers.)

o Has a more feminine look and feel
o Most lightweight easy to carry
o Expensive from any other laptop brand with same configuration (Starts 1500
o High Performance with less problems.
o Ideal For working women (Web/Art/Graphic designers, Managers)
o Sales and Service - Average

* APPLE **** (Buyers : Audio/Video Editors and engineers,Animators)

o High performance with a dedicated software and hardware support
o Most Expensive in its category.
o Ideal for - Audio/Video Editors, Animators etc.
o After Sales Support - Excellent.
o Most of the Apple notebooks come large in size cause their users need bigger screen for their work.