I'd say I'd be willing to pay $800 tops even if I have to wait a bit to save that much up. My current laptop has a few annoyances (slightly damaged screen and short battery life), but it still works fine for now. Still, I'd like to get a new one in 3 or so months, unless I see a really killer deal right now.

Keep in mind, I'm at a regional flying props so my roller bag goes in the back. Therefore, any laptop must fit in my flight case.