Professional writers require a laptop that’s easily transportable, has a long battery life, and comes with an ergonomic keyboard. These three things are basic, yet also hard to find. For the most part, netbooks are not an optimal choice for writers. Since netbooks are simply too small, these mini-laptops have been excluded from the following list. A laptop that includes everything a writer needs may be more expensive than a standard laptop, but the extra price is justifiable. That said, optimal laptops for writers range from $900 to $2000.

Lenovo ThinkPad X201 3626 -- $1000+

The Lenovo ThinkPad is a durable computer that’s packed with plenty of extras. Lenovo has sunk an Intel Core i5 process into this ThinkPad, which is an impressive start. This laptop also includes a traditional keyboard with large, evenly spaced, keys that are perfect for typing all day long. The ThinkPad X201 3626 comes with a 12 inch screen, which makes this laptop portable enough for all kinds of travel. This ThinkPad also comes with a matte screen that effectively eliminates glare (perfect for working outdoors or in a bright room).

Sony VAIO VGN-TT190 -- $3000+

With a price tag that reaches over $3000, the Sony VAIO VGN-TT190 is a true laptop investment. While there’s no doubt that this laptop is expensive, it also comes packed with many worthwhile features. To begin with, this Sony has a Blu-ray drive, a built-in optical drive, and it also comes with mobile broadband. This VAIO also has 256GB of storage – impressive for a laptop this size. Writers will enjoy Sony’s well spaced keyboard that is responsive and easy to use. Aside from the price, the one drawback of this VAIO is the 11-inch screen, which may prove to be too small for some people. However, the VAIO VGN-TT190 is lightweight, filled with many admirable features, and will serve writing purposes well.

MacBook Pro 15-inch -- $2000+

There’s no doubt about the fact that Macs are sleek. The MacBook Pro 15-inch is no exception to this rule. Looks aside, the MacBook Pro includes some inspiring elements that most writers will find highly enjoyable. An Intel Core 17 processor makes the MacBook Pro extremely powerful, and a high resolution display (anti-glare coating option possible) makes this laptop fast and efficient. One of the best features of the MacBook Pro is the keyboard that comes with this computer. Large keys, Apple’s patented “island” design, and a responsive track pad make this keyboard top-notch. This laptop doesn’t come with a Blu-ray player, but this is a small drawback to an otherwise impressive machine.

Sony VAIO E -- $799+

Writers who have yet to sell a bestseller will appreciate all that the VAIO E has to offer. Beginning with a low price tag, the VAIO E also comes with an Intel Core i3 processor, 500 gig hard drive, 4 gigs of RAM, and a 15.5-inch screen (ideal for writing long scripts). Sony has been outfitting VAIOs with excellent keyboards, and the E version is no exception. This VAIO features a large keyboard that has soft, well-spaced, keys. The VAIO keyboard also has a built-in full number pad that is strategically placed. The Sony VAIO E is an inexpensive laptop with a lot of quality features that will serve most writing purposes well.