PC laptop advice

So, I'm helping do research for polywolf, who needs to buy a laptop. Budget is under 1K, preferably more in the 500-800 range, especially if there's going to be room for a warranty.

Advice I've gotten so far:
Good: Samsung, Acer, Toshiba
Bad: HP, Gateway, Compaq

Celeron chips are bad

Factory refurbished is okay.

Comments or advice or suggestions?