lenovo IdeaPad Z580 (59345252) Notebook Intel Core i3 3110M(2.40GHz) 15.6" 4GB Memory 750GB HDD DVD±R/RW Intel HD Graphics 4000

Pros: Nice machine for less than $400. All around good buy for a college kids needs. Can and may be downgraded to Windows 7. The aluminum surfaces seem nice if they hold up. I ordered a Dell machine for him and they pushed the delivery date back 2 times. Newegg shipped the machine and I got it in 2 days. You guys ROCK.

Cons: Windows 8, What is the point. Well maybe the kid will like it after he stumbles his way through the system. Not sure if I really like the touchpad buttons, Guess they will be easy to get used to.

Other Thoughts: Good idea is to set the power options to shut the machine down when the power button is pressed. Going through the menu is a pain in the ***.

Pros: My fiancé bought this for me for Christmas and I totally love this laptop. I really love the fact that it has a number pad built right in. The music sounds phenomenal on this too.

Cons: Windows 8 being installed on it, very confusing will have to do some research or hit up the IT guys at work.

Pros: Looks nice and professional. It doesn't look cheap like most of other lower end laptops
Great sound quality for an entry level laptop
Screen looks great with vibrant colors(bit glossy but can't complain)
Cool and quiet operation even with prolonged use
Nice comfortable keyboard with numeric pad
Better positioning of built-in microphone - IMO
Lightweight

Cons: Screen can be little bit shaky if not operated on a steady surface due to the way hinges are designed.
Comes only with Windows 8
Keyboard Caps lock indicator light is located below the touchpad - along with power and HDD indicators - which really minor but too bad for otherwise very good keyboard design

Other Thoughts: Booted and configured Windows 8 in 2-3 mins and could connect to WiFi right away with no problems whatsoever. Wasn't too happy about not being able to opt for Windows 7 though but still no big deal. (There's Windows 7 driver support) Battery stays 4-5 hours with full WiFi activity.
Seems this can handle games with decent config - however don't expect much on the gaming aspect.

Overall great laptop for the price.

Got this at the discount price and really glad I picked this. And I'm impressed by Newegg shipping that delivered earlier than expected.