Im a overpaid IT-Gimp as i believe it was put
I have a MacBook Pro 13" and very happy with it. No reinstalls over the last year, no AV really needed but i have one as new virus/malware is being produced for iOS. Yes you can get a Windows based laptop for alot cheaper but its down to choice.
If your choice is to stay with PC's here's some advice from real life support-
Dell Vostro - these are simply refurb laptops that dell have put into main stream. Parts need replacing alot through warrnaty
Dell XPS/Alienware - Had a m15x great laptop stupidly expensive. XPS good laptop expensive
HP - Normally next day service on break down and if you hunt around youll always find a cashback deal
SONY - Great Looking laptops but poor specs for the large price tag.
ASUS - Great specs cheap, when they go wrong alot off effort to get fixed.
if you find something and want a yay or nay just post back