You don't have to be a computer guru anymore, like I said, manufacturers are almost all about the same when it comes to dollars vs. what you get. Names like HP, Compaq, Dell, Gateway, Sony etc are all good computers. For every HP owner that isn't happy the same Gateway owner isn't happy. So if you start asking which is better that debate will never end. Plus all computers swtich factories and manufacturers almost daily so one day you'll have the parts Gateway was just using and being made in a factory Dell just moved out of for a Compaq computer.

You need to provide a dollar amount for laptop or desktop if you want a good suggestion because that's the only way we can help you. Desktops always give much more bang and performance for the buck.