He recommends the most popular programs because support is better for high-volume products. Price computers on the basis of features you need. Basic prices often include only 32 megabytes of memory, which is not enough. Ask what extra memory costs. Monitors are often sold separately.
Prices vary widely, and some people care more about screen size and screen quality than others.
Look at several monitors in a store. Make sure there are enough expansion slots for peripherals and extra storage you may want, but don't pay big bucks for expandability. Ignore free software in evaluating the deal, unless it's something you've already planned to buy. Sometimes you can negotiate for software you need. Laptops are indispensable if you travel on business, and a luxury if you don't.