[nuclearcat]

One thing everybody is missing, you should avoid NOT BRAND, you should avoid specific models. And "works for me" it is not a feedback, just some people not very choosy.

1 rule)Avoid extensive (and expensive) capabilities. Too small, too powerful, too ... - means very high possibility, that hardware working on the edge. If you need a "workhourse", find a "middle" Mhz Core 2 Duo, or if u cannot afford - Celeron. Avoid P4 - they are too hot for laptop, and consuming too much power.

2 rule) Avoid Nvidia/ATI video, they are still far for gaming, and you need laptop for work, so Intel onboard will work pretty well (less watts going as heat and less wats draws from battery).

3 rule)Find laptop with 1-2G ram at least, better even more. Laptops usually have slow HDD's, so more RAM - more satisfying "desktop performance" you have.

4)Thermal design matter. Try to find laptop you gonna buy on stand. If in idle state or average load fan is spinning with noise - most probably it has problems with proper cooling.

And few more small points.

Check what is wireless chipset. Most trouble-free - Intel Wireless.
After you find out, what model you want (check EXACTLY which one), go home/work, and check in internet feedbacks about it.

Btw even Acers can work very well. I had Acer, if you use it carefully - it will last 2-3 year without problem. Only one problem - their batteries degradating fast.
Toshiba i had for 3 years - one time(after 6 month) power connector board failed, manufacturing defect. I had to fight with dealer who sold me it, because he dont want to take it as warranty repair. The lid was painted very bad way, easily scratchable. After 3 year LCD was busted.
Sony Vaio (very small one, i dont remember model, but it costs around $2k) - battery charger busted without any reason.
But that specific case of specific models.