I need a keyboard so laptops is a good choice. I am now using an Asus P5 CPU and don't remember the rest of the specs. I have it hooked to a 24" monitor so I have two screens. The Asus was less than $500. Related, I recently bought two Lenovo notebooks at Best Buy for the Wife and Son, open box items at less than $250 for both.
If you need the functionality of a notebook/laptop, I'd suggest to browse the Big Box stores in person and see what's on the shelf. Most have good specs and will operate MS office without a hiccup. Good luck on your choice!
