Too many choices

I am looking to purchase a new laptop, but I am getting frustrated with the vast amount of computers there is to choose from. I read reviews and ask friends but they always seem to give me different information. Can someone please give me a general consensus on a few laptops that would be good for daily use, internet browsing, ebay, playing a game every once in a while, and most importantly, one that will not become incredibly and unbearable slow after just 1 year of use. I appreciate your input.