I have had a couple of acer computers (travelmate) over the last few years and did not have any problems with them. They are relatively cheap for the spec and you should be able to get something to fit under a £1000. If battery life is important I would do a little research because the manufacturers claims are a little optimistic. I had a basic sony vaio which could only manage 40 mins! However, one of the best machines on the market at the moment is (in my opinion) the Sony Z1 - I got one for under £1500 - it is superb and gives around 4hours use. Check out technoworld.co.uk (cheap) but avoid PCworld at all costs!