I have a Dell Inspiron 8600. My advice is this:

If you get a Dell, an extended warranty is MANDATORY

Something is bound to break. Dell computers are assembled in SE Asia (quickly). If you have a warranty this is how it goes:

(This is what happened to me)

My DVD-burner broke, I called.
1) Waited 15 minutes on hold
2) Got ahold of Indian tech support guy
3) He said to restart computer, blah blah.
4) I told him that I would not have wasted my time on hold without doing that already.
5) He sent email saying check....a variety of random things.
6) I sent back email saying I'd already done all that....
7) They sent new burner

If you don't have a warranty, they won't even talk to you.

So, here is what to do if something goes wrong. Call them. Tell them you KNOW computers (even if you don't). Get the "do-it-yourself" diagnosis email. Send reply saying it didn't work (you don't really have to try). They will then send you a new part.

If you get a bad person (it is really hit or miss), just say you will try to self-diagnose (lie), hang up, and call back. Yeah, I know it's annoying, but is is better spending an hour on the phone with a clueless tech guy.

Good Luck
Dizzy

EDIT: oh yeah, I forgot sales. I called sales to order. They were really helpful friendly, etc. I ordered and checked email. I had ordered a 2nd battery (fits in modular bay). He had selected the primary one (big one) instead. I tried to get him back, but couldn't for 2 days. Lesson: Once they get your order, they suddenly become "busy"