2XL
Take a good look at Toshiba's website, at their Satellite range. Having sworn off laptops after an expensive foray, I'm swinging back again
I've spent ages trolling the web for reviews etc., and was surprised that till recently they're the #1 selling manufacturer.
I too want an all-purpose machine for personal use, and like the look of the new 5005-S504 model (5000-100 in UK). Although over the price you mentioned, it has specs way over more expensive models. E.g. PIII 1.1G/512MB RAM.
Have yet to find the catch
Good luck.