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Laptop for Pro Tools Express

If you're entering the world of Pro Tools I suggest you become acquainted with two very important resources:
  1. The DUC - aka Avid Pro Audio Community (http://duc.avid.com/). This is the official Pro Tools users forum. Not only is this a good place to discuss computer specs but it is the place to find all the recommended Windows configuration tweaks for stability with Pro Tools. There are a lot more than you think.
  2. Pro-Tools-Expert (http://www.pro-tools-expert.com/). This is IMO the best informational resource for PT users with tons of blog posts, tutorials, videos, reviews, and a weekly Podcast. You can find discussions about PC specs here as well.
 
To address your questions more specifically:

For laptop specs, it all depends on your needs. With PT Express you are limited to the number of tracks you can work with (which is 16) and the number of tracks you can record simultaneously (based on your interface). The upside to that limitation is that fewer tracks will be less taxing on your computer.

Avid list the basic requirements for PT Express on their website:

Windows
  • Computer: Avid-qualified computer
  • OS: Windows 7 (with Service Pack 1)
  • RAM: 2 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended)
  • Hard disk space: 5 GB free hard disk space (for Pro Tools Express installation)
  • 2 USB ports: For Interface and iLok
Also remember it is best not to record audio on the same drive as Pro Tools or your OS, so use a high speed or SSD external drive.

Regarding your interface:

PT Express will only work with the interfaces it was bundled with. From the PT Express FAQ (Invalid Link Removed)
"Pro Tools Express is only available bundled with Mbox (3rd Gen), Mbox Mini (3rd Gen), Fast Track Solo, and Fast Track Duo interfaces and is not available for sale separately. Pro Tools Express is also included with select Akai Professional and M-Audio interfaces, distributed by InMusic Brands."

To use your choice of interface you would need the full version of Pro Tools 10 or 11.