Anecdotal data counterpoint: I've had three hps in five years- one hard drive crash was the only issue, aside from a keyboard button falling off of one. (Kids

Anecdotal data counterpoint: I've had three hps in five years- one hard drive crash was the only issue, aside from a keyboard button falling off of one. (Kids have them now and they are doing fine). Currently running two Asus'- a "business" laptop (UL50V) and an eeePC for travel. Both with Ubuntu/Mint linux. The Biz machine is nice, the eeePC is what it is. Boots fast, standby works in ubuntu, etc. Better value than an ipad for my road needs (although the ipad is nice for other things).