next, you have the processors--AMD, INTEL pentium I, II, III. A pentium III processor is top of the line and will be extra fast, but also extra expensive. An AMD processor is not as fast, but in my opinion its plenty fast, and ALOT cheaper.

megahertz is the word used for how fast the computer is. 4 years ago, 200 megahertz was fast, now that is VERY SLOW. Comps are updated about every 3 months if you didn't know.

Here is what I would suggest---find a comp with NO DVD {save 200-300$}, at least 400 megahertz, AMD processor-{intel is another 3-400$}. Other options vary such as screen size and battery, a NEW comp like this should run you about 14-1700$.

If your looking to spend around a grand or a little more, go for a refurbished comp, you can find a good one at compaqworks.com, I think thats the site. That is compaq's refurbishing wharehouse, those comps may have come out 6 months ago, but they are considered outdated. They have refurbished{used} comps everywhere, just do some research.

Dell comps are good, you can pick your own features, but they are expensive, probably gonna spend 2 grand. They have won awards for customer sevice.

It all depends on what you want to spend, but your going to have to spend at least 1000$ to get a quality laptop.