My two cents...
- Avoid Vista (it's what made me buy my MacBook Pro).
- The MacBooks are good, but they have integrated graphics that use system RAM, so pretty dire for proper gaming. But as you're not doing any, you should be okay. There is some discussion that integrated graphics that use system RAM can slow down your computer. I've seen this on PCs, but don't have enough experience with Macs to comment reliably.
- If you want to run Windows apps for which there is no Mac equivalent, then learn about Boot Camp - boot in to XP. It can be tempremental to get set up, but once it's on there it's great. Then, get hold of a copy of Parallels or VMWare, and you boot that same XP installation in a Window while running OS X.
- Finally, give OS X a chance. If you're not a Mac person, it will take some getting used to, but be patient and it will pay off. I really like my Macbook Pro!
- PS - go to your local Mac store and buy your Macbook over the counter - easier, faster and no waiting! (Unless they're out of stock, check in advance!).
@777fred - The last few Dell systems I've set up haven't had AOL on them. They tend to ship with Tiscali or Orange or both. And anyways, PC Decrapifier will get rid of the junk that Dell ship on their systems anyway. (I recommend Dell in a professional capacity, both for home users and businesses, and both laptops and desktops).