I still use Thinkpads (T or L models), and think they're quite ok, now that they went back to the synaptic or elan touchpads.
If you need (prefer) a RJ-45 network plug, along with WiFi. Make sure to check if the model you select has one, as some of the new slim TP's only have WiFi.
I prefer the 14" or 15" , as i think the bigger models (P line) is too big.
A used
L14 Gen1 (either) Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen, is my preferred model atm. - I replaced the 512GB NVME w. a 1TB Samsung NVME SSD 980.
Ie:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/186005727797But i have also used T460s, T470s, T480s, L470, L480 and L490.
Note: T460 & T/L470 doesn't support Win11 - I don't care as i use linux.
You'd need an Intel Gen8+ CPU for Win11 , as is in the 480,490 & L14 models.
I have tried the L14 Gen2 ... It's FAST , but IMHO it gets too hot. And it's not on the "Used" market yet.
I usually buy my Thinkpads used, and the price varies but starts at around $250
I have only ever had one "mechanically" damaged TP (a L470, with a crack in the plastic that developed a bit)
And i have had an x260, where the "mobo ram controller died".
I still have my T430s that i paid $160 for (used), running fine ... I only replaced to get FullHD graphics.
Btw: I NEVER had a TP PSU die on me ... Not even my old T600 PSU from Y2k.
/Bingo