I've had an HP Pavilion a6528p PC that's from 2007 or 2008, and it's still chugging along. I replaced the dual-core CPU with a quad-core for $25 on eBay, and maxed out the RAM to 8 GB, and replaced the HD with an SSD. It's most usable in current version of Windows 10. I use it for VFP9 and Visual Studio 2019 development in C/C++ mostly. I've been amazed by that machine.

My laptop was an HP Pavilion dm4, and has been the best laptop I've ever had. I used it daily from 2012 through 2019 when I finally got a new one. The only reason I got a new one was because the screen's hinge began to break. If I could replace the hinge, I'd still use it today.

I've also had good luck with Toshiba. But if you go Toshiba, make sure you get one with a solid frame. I've had them with a solid metal frame (from 2007) and used it daily through 2012 with zero issues. I bought another AMD-based Toshiba in 2014 that had a plastic frame and it's been a little bit quirky. It works, but about every 20th boot the video card won't initialize. I have to shut it off and restart it. And, it flexes more than I feel comfortable with. But if you get a sturdy solid frame design you'll be good to go with Toshiba IMO.

>Hi Rick, Thanks for your reply
>I have a HP Envy ,windows 8, which I have had for last 5 years or so
>Always found it a bit sluggish, in say loading up Visual studio, or Compiling
>May be down to model, although I got a fairly high spec at the time
>
>Any particular model, or spec that you have found good ?
>>
>>I have always had the best longevity and performance with Intel-based HP laptops and desktop computers. They are real workhorses.