@wifwolf when you say “lower end” about what rough budget do you have in mind? (Since I guess it means something different for everyone) I’ve been looking into options quite recently so maybe I have some ideas depending on the budget.
Edit: https://frame.work has some very nice options also for compact laptops and has the possibility to purchase them without windows license. All parts are also very easily replaceable from what I’ve seen (I’ve had the chance to see some at FOSDEM last week, too). But they are north of 600€. Even though you can find something comfortable and decent and compact within the 600-800€ frame if that counts as your budget still.