One of the keys to smooth computer recording is building your own machine using only well known standard parts (Intel, Asus, Gigabyte, rather than AMD, MSI, Asrock whatever) and then using it for recording purposes only. Without an internet connection, you don't need anti-virus software or a firewall etc. A desktop machine obviously is more powerfull than a laptop. But if you have to use a laptop, get one with a "real" graphics processor, avoid by all means shared memory onboard graphics. It's not the graphics power that you need, it's just that the shared memory thing gets in the way of audio processing (i.e. dropouts). Also avoid exotic chipsets. Intel CPU + Intel chipset is the way to go.
But for quick song demos and couch recording, the Zoom H2 is hard to beat. ;D