I've decided to stick with a desktop Windows PC. I bought my wife a powerbook so but overall I am familiar with Windows a lot more and feel more comfortable with it.

I've had the same experience with Dell laptops. I've always had IBM desktops but feel they are over priced for what you get. Dell seems to be quite reasonably priced but I'm worried about reliability.

How about HP, NEC, Sony, and other brands out there?