What you definitely should have is an SSD and a docking station. And remember, in computers you get what you pay for, so if it's a work laptop you shouldn't go cheap. Personally I'm using Dell Latitude, and have no complaints. I have had Asus laptops before and I'm happier with Dell, but the Dells have also been more expensive. Also remember that they have different support levels for cheap and expensive computers. Dells support for cheapo computers suck elephant balls, while the pro-support leave nothing extra to wish for.
Light moves faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright, until you hear them speak. List of common misconceptions