Laptop stolen in Budapest - looking for a replacement.

Country of purchase: US

• Budget range: 600-900

• Purpose (netbook, ultraportable, mainstream, gaming, desktop replacement, etc.): Mainstream/Gaming

• Screen size preference: 14-15 inch

• OS preference (Windows/ Mac/ Linux): Windows

• Gaming requirements (example games and desired fps/settings): Guild Wars at medium/high settings

• Performance requirements (video, CAD, etc.): I would like something with a dedicated video card to run games

• Brand preferences and reasons (already owned accessories, familiarity, business compatibility): None

• Any particular style that you like (examples are great): I like the look of the Asus laptops, but I have read some concerns as to the sturdiness

• Which of the following qualities would you prefer? (Choose one, the other, or balanced): Balanced

• Long battery life -vs- Low weight: I would like a laptop that is not extremely heavy

• Build quality -vs- Low price: I would like something that feels sturdy and will last. I used my last laptop for 3.5 years, and had no intention of replacing it if it weren't for my travel mishap :)

Would you pay a premium for something that has:

• High resolution screen: Yes

• A great keyboard: No

• A great touchpad/mouse buttons: No

• Great audio: No (I plan to use external speakers)

List any features that are critical: (e.g. Optical drive, USB 3.0, SD card slot, ethernet port, HDMI port, bluetooth, VGA port, removable battery, glossy screen, matte screen, etc.): None

After doing a lot of browsing on the suggestalaptop forum yesterday, I narrowed my search to the Lenovo Y580, which I found for $840, or an Asus model.

Also - I would need something that comes with an OS, preferably Windows 8.

And one last question, since the holiday shopping season is getting under way, should I expect great deals on laptops in the next few weeks? Meaning, would it make more sense to wait a few weeks for great deals? Or is now the time to strike?

Thank you in advance!