Dell spends the most on promoting their product and their direct sales model allows them higher margins. This allows them to compete with the other majors Lenovo (IBM), HP and Toshiba. Toshiba and IBM make the best laptops and since calling Dell can be a complete hassle should there be a problem I would consider Toshiba or IBM.

Rather than worrying about the manufacturer I would concentrate on what you intend on using the laptop for and the features that matter the most and of course your budget.

Once you have figured that out then look at what IBM and Toshiba offer and if you must compare it to a similar Dell.

Dell runs teasers all the time, but this means people spend more than they intend on spending. Since, you will keep the laptop 3-4 years buying the most appropriate laptop for you needs is the most cost effective strategy.