As with any computer recommendation, price always plays a major factor. It is usually the number one criteria when purchasing a computer as most people have a fixed amount they can spend. In today's economy price is even more a concern. This video plays out a scenario I often experience when helping people:
Video: Laptop Hunters $1000 - Lauren Gets an HP Pavilion
Now, to all my Mac friends, of which there are many, I am not out to spark a flame war. I am just stating the fact that an equivalent powered Mac costs 50%-100% more than a PC of the same power. You get more value and options for your money with a PC, and one can get quite a good PC laptop for around $700. Though I still use Macs in my profession, just one of the many reasons I switched from Mac to PC was value, and value is always a concern when people are shopping for a computer.
Another quick tip for computer shoppers: the best time to buy a computer is not after Christmas which most people think, but during the back to school sales for new computers, and right after school starts (Oct-Nov) for great refurbished deals.