What is the predominant platform at your son's school? (Windows, Linux, Mac, etc.)? If there is no preferred platform (and if he's not doing anything that involves computers directly, like programming), you might want to consider the Apple iBooks. There's the 12" model and the 14" model, with various processor speeds. They're really well built (very sturdy), and the operating system is quite good these days. Of course, if he's into games, you'll probably want to look at a PC laptop. Also, which OS does he prefer? In any case, you should make sure you get (or can get) education pricing for whatever you buy. You'll save a couple of hundred dollars.
