My bud needs a windows lappy that we're going to put XP on. He doesn't need it for gaming, but would like to get the most processing for his bucks.

Any advice on current lappys?

Lot of good deals right now. Processing meaning what exactly? Best processor? Is there a specific task you want to do with the notebook? If this is just a generic use notebook, get a lower end processor that isn't power hungry, and save on battery life. Dell Vostros seem to be all the rage, and I keep hearing good things about 'em.