What is a good laptop for college?

I'm going to be graduating this year from High School (a year overdue) and plan to attend 2 years in college. Before heading off, I would like some recommendations for a laptop that I can buy so I won't be completely unprepared for college.

My budget is around $400-$1,000. I enjoy Sony, HP, Toshiba, and Gateway but I don't mind looking at other laptops too (Dell, Acer, Asus, etc.)

Basically, I need a laptop that will last me for a long time and effective at helping me speed through college.

If you guys have any recommendations, please do so.

Thanks

- mNote

$400-$1000 is a big gap. What would you normally use it for? What kind of software do you intend to use on it?

If it can run TF2 without lagging, then that'd be the laptop I'd get.

I plan to use it mainly for studying on google and doing homework. Playing PC games on my spare time is also a must-have.

ibuypower.com is where I got my laptop and I use it for all my gaming needs and homework. I had no problem with it and the laptop I got is great. Can run Crysis pretty well too.

If you want something to game on your going to need a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. Most start around $900 and a good one will break your $1000 budget. Fortunately for you Dell has the Dell XPS m1530 on sale.

- XPS M1530 (PRODUCT) RED

- Add the 8600M GT as your video card

- Use coupon code 7J7G9TP6Z52FS3 at check out

- Final price is $999.20

The other colors will currently cost you more and they come with Vista Premium instead of Ultimate. I don't know how long the (PRODUCT) RED will be at that price, but the coupon is good until Wednesday.

ibuypower.com is where I got my laptop and I use it for all my gaming needs and homework. I had no problem with it and the laptop I got is great. Can run Crysis pretty well too.

What laptop did you get? I remember you mentioning in vent couple months ago but I didn't really pay attention.