Get a Macbook, I got "converted" two years ago and I've not looked back, I'm running Office and all the standard Microsoft stuff, plus it still (much to my amazement) runs as fast as the day it was bought, not like a Windows PC/Laptop in the slightest.

Also, I just run free virus software as you really don't need any over the top protection as the hacking market for Mac's only represents between 5 and 10 % of total machines, apparently if your going to hack its pointless making stuff that can only shut down "5% of the worldwide market".

maybe they've improved then, my last one was an Acer (bought it about 4-5years ago) and its cooling system was so poor it'd practically be on fire after about 10mins use!

Standees advice is on the nail really. Expense wise. Get a console for games. Mainly because of no need for upgrades etc...
Then any medium spec lappy should be good for the net.
If the budgets a problem. try Gamestation etc...for the console, good quality second hand ones with a guarentee.

I still use an Acer that was bought about 4 years ago and it has that problem as well, I keep on telling myself I'll buy a new one eventually but never get round to it! It's burning a hole in my desk as I type...

My one and only Acer laptop had exactly the same problem. Constantly going back to them to have the heatsink repaired as it got so hot all the thermal paste burned off and the thing kept cutting out.

Currently using a Dell that I've had 3-4 years and I must admit it's been rock solid.

I bought a dell for the first time.A dell 17 with windows 7 and got to admit it's bloody great.