System76

I’ve had mine for about 2 weeks now. Good machine. Build quality is middle of the road. For the price you would expect high quality. Though I would not consider the quality bad or low. I’m perfectly happy with it.

I have the Lemur Pro (lemp9) which is about three years old.

I really do not have any complaints. Battery life is very good (I did replace the battery, tho, which is easy to do). The display is fine (I don't need 4K). The keyboard isn't spectacular, but I also can't complain. The speakers are awful. I dearly love how lightweight this thing is.

You want to just get work done and you want battery life? I can't recommend the Lemur Pro more. It's pretty good. And of course: a Phillips head is all you need to open the thing up.

I would not suggest it if you're a gamer. But if you just want a day-to-day machine that does not irritate you, I'd say go for the Lemur Pro.

Also, I have had good experiences with the System76 support folk. I've had minor issues (WiFi card, cracked control key, etc). They addressed those things quickly.

Also, you are not constrained to Pop_OS. I have no complaints about Pop_OS. I just prefer Arch.

I have got the newest Lemur 12 and have had it since launch. If you mean by "build quality" durability, and sturdiness it isn't bad. I have actually dropped it (wouldn't suggest) and still works. Hinge works looks and feels sturdy. Keyboard is acceptable. If you mean does it feel luxurious and look fashionable. Nope. I am pretty rough on my laptops (using on planes, on the couch and in bed) and am hoping it last two years.