Trying to decide between HP or Dell

HP is not well known for reliability; in my experience, far worse than Dell. Dell is not the king of the hill either, but Vostro is the business class of their notebook line, so I would get that.

For reliability, asus seams to be #1 followed by toshibia.

Agreed; but those were not on his/her list.

Yes, I know, was just tring to provide additional option as Dell is about 3rd to 5th place and HP is even lower. But you are correct to recommend the "business class" as they are more reliable than the "General Public" offers, but on the same token the bussiness class are often based on older, proven tech.