It definitely sounds like you want something portable, so I wouldn't worry about getting a desktop unless you anticipate your needs changing soon.<br /><br />rule of thumb on a laptop is this, never spend less than $1000. Chances are if you do spend less than $1000 a lot of the features you might come to find that you wish you had, you won't have and there is no way to add them. Though everyone is different with computers especially laptops.<br /><br />Also if possible with a lap top check out the possibility for a docking station. If you are unfamiliar with a docking station, it allows you to "dock" the computer at the docking station, which the docking station has attached to it things like a full size keyboard, monitor, printer, regular mouse, usb devices, etc... Good for when you just want to sit down and compute!<br /><br />Most IMPORTANT! Portability. I own a laptop with a 17.8 inch screen, full size keyboard, and a lot of beef. Big mistake. I want to take my laptop places, and I find it's a little less convenient than it need be. Its kinda heavy to lug around, and it doesn't fit on some desks at school, especially in lecture halls.<br /><br />my vote is laptop, and pc or mac really doesn't matter. Just look at both together (you and your wife) and see which one you both like best, and go with that one.
