<p>Dells are arguably the most cost-efficient notebook computer, especially after coupons and discounts.</p>
<p>If a macbook and similar dell (we're talking things like both are thin and lights or both ultraportables... can't compare ultraportables to huge multimedia laptops) were selling for the same price, the Dell will have a better configuration.</p>
<p>Macbooks are encased in aluminum, Dells are encased in either plastic, plastic/carbon fiber, or magnesium/aluminum. I'd stick with Dell just because of its lower price, but go with the Latitude or the XPS series, I'd stay away from their Inspirons. It's a bigger bang for your buck.</p>
<p>But to answer your questions, neither is better. The tasks that you listed are only "basic needs," so even a low-end system is adequate. In fact, you could even get a used laptop that was THE system to have 2 years ago for ~700 bucks that could fulfill those tasks and possibly more.</p>