Best laptop picks for $700–$900?

Hey! I’m looking to pick up a new laptop soon. I’ve been digging through the threads here and it looks like everyone keeps pointing me toward the HP Pavilion 700-15ISK, but I could really use some actual advice since comparing specs always leaves me a bit lost.

So, here’s the deal:

1. Screen size: 15.6''

2. Resolution: Standard

3. Glossy or matte: Doesn't matter to me

4. Usage: Basic stuff + photo and video editing

5. OS: Don't need macOS

6. Favorites: Personally, I’m leaning toward Dell because my current one’s been running fine for six years, but it seems like nothing from Dell in this price range can actually compete with
that HP Pavilion mentioned above.

7. Budget: Ideally around $1667, but I can stretch to $6,000 if there's a real win-win situation. Paying cash.

8. Warranty: Yes, please.

9. Other: I’d really love an SSD, which is kind of what’s holding me back from pulling the trigger on that "best buy" HP.

Bottom line: speed is my priority, followed by build quality. It needs to feel solid.

Thanks!

Every MacBook Air comes with an M.2 slot for an SSD, plus you’ve already got this one with an SSD pre-installed.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=80RU00S7SC

Then there's the newer model, an Alienware, but let's be real—that's not even in your budget, and it doesn't come with an SSD either.