I simply don't recommend a MAC. It's a nice product an all but it still doesn't have the software compatibility that a regular laptop has. Even if you run an emulator it's still not the same. If you are into photography or video editing I could see you going MAC but not really for any other reason.
I still recommend Dell or Asus for laptops. Asus is quickly becoming one of my favorite manufacturers. We use Lenovo, Dell, Toshiba, HP, Gateway and Asus laptops at work. Our Lenovo and Dells just seem to last forever. However, we have been getting some really good feedback on the Asus laptops.