In the market for a new laptop in the 800-1200 dollar range, any suggestions.

[sarcasmo]

I would like a 4GB with a 400 plus anyone steer me in the right direction. I like the Sony VGN-FW351J/H but have read some bad reviews on the way they heat up. The Dell XpsM1530 appears to be a nice system but has the same heat issues when in use.

[struggle4progress]

1. You can get a Macbook w/ 4GB for $1100

http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MB881LL/A?mco=MzE2NjMyOA

[sarcasmo]

3. The sony I am looking at has the same 4gb and the same features for 300 less.

[EvolveOrConvolve]

2. I have a friend that uses a Sony Vaio and raves about it ($799)

It looks like you can get a pretty beefy machine for $799. This is the VGN-CS220J/W model and it comes with a dual core processor (64 bit), 4 GB of memory, double layer burn capability DVD ± RW, 320 GB hard drive, webcam etc.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9293597&type=product&id=1218076082044

That's the quick Best Buy link I found: you can probably find it cheaper if you shop around a bit. I can usually find products at 25% less than the Best Buy price if I look hard enough. If you can get it for under $700, you're saving a ton of money over the MacBook.

(And FWIW, I personally use a Dell XPS and probably wouldn't recommend it - it has had numerous problems that didn't actually kill the machine, but have been constant minor irritants. The old "death by a thousand cuts" routine and all.)

[sarcasmo]

4. Went to pick one up today and they are out of Stock of the Sony Vaio I want.

You are right about Dell and it's customer service the reviews are horrible. If you get a deal you MUST get the extended warranty.

[qanda]

5. I have a Sony FW170J and my husband has the FW351J and neither of them have heat issues

If you have any questions about the Sony, feel free to ask.

[sarcasmo]

6. Picked up the sony 351J and the wife couldn't put it down this weekend.

Installed Wireless and made the wife a happy camper.

[qanda]

7. It's a great laptop. Glad you were able to get it and make the wife happy in the process.