If you plan to run off of the battery a great deal, we recommend the new 486-SL processors. These were designed especially for portable computers to maximize battery life. Several vendors have products using this chip. Look for a portable computer with a screen that does not overly drain your battery. Super-twist LCD screens that are visible without back lighting will prolong battery life.
Some portable computers are now available with color monitors.
A color display may be important if this portable computer will be your primary computer. Color display will significantly increase the cost of the notebook computer. Ask if the portable computer can drive an external color monitor. Try out the keyboard before making your purchase. You may want to attach a full size keyboard, so make sure the portable has an industry standard external keyboard port.