[OT] laptop recommendations

[Stephen <ukha@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi,

I am looking to buy my first laptop. I wondered about a couple of
options:

I don't need it to be top of the range ultra-fast, so would second
hand be an option or is this too risky? If there are reliable sellers
who are they? I worry about paying for a scratched, broken laptop on
ebay and having no way to get my money back!

With the exchange rates, is it possible to get a bargain from abroad
(the US?) or will I get hit by big customs bills and risk damage in
transit?

What makes do you recommend? Is it best to go for a known name like
Sony, etc?

Thanks & Merry Christmas,
Stephen.