Long time computer user here (former Bell Labs researcher, I now run a proof-of-concept networking lab in downtown Chicago). My preferences for a personal laptop are small but powerful, and LONG battery life. My current fav is Toshiba Portege. But I also like lots of screen real estate so I create a desktop dock with an external (super large, like 28 inch) screen. This gives me great desktop presence AND excellent portability for travel.

My two sons chose macbooks when they went to college. #1 son is still a fan (does software dev for wall street investment analysis) of macbooks partly because you have to use a mac for iphone/ipad app development. Daughter chose the portege this year when she entered Depaul (because she has a W7 phone and likes how they integrate).