What do I need to look for in a new laptop, please?

[SoftKittyWarmKitty]

I'm in the market for a new laptop - my Acer Aspire is 7 years old and on its last legs. I went to John Lewis today and realised I have no idea what to look for! Can anyone help me out with an idea of spec - good brands, minimum memory needed etc? I'll be mainly using it for internet, emailing, writing documents, saving/printing photos and I know I don't want a mac or a netbook. I don't really want to spend more than £400, ideally less.

well for a start i'd think you will get very little for £400 mark at John Lewis.
I have just recently bought an Acer E1 571 core i5(quick processor),with 500gb hard disk storage.Its fine for everything you mentioned.I bought it as an Amazon warehouse deal as it was a refurb or opened box or something.Still had the guarantee though.Cost £311.

I just happened to be in JL, I doubt I'll buy from there after seeing their prices!

What's an Amazon warehouse deal?

Just seen this, have no idea if it's a good spec though .

If you wanted a laptop for gaming or video editing or other so-called 'power' applications then there are various must-haves boxes that you need to tick. But since your rrequirements are quite vanilla, go back to JL, find a model that you like the look off and then buy it off Amazon :)