There are many good hardware choices at this point in order to replace a Macbook. What is entirely not clear is what software to use to replace a Macbook.
This is why I'm probably going to opt for a maxed out 2015 Macbook Pro. Yes, I know I'm paying for "old" hardware but I don't use VMs or compile anything heavy so it should last me a while. After selling my current one it should come out to about $1000 so not too bad. I'm just too invested in macOS in terms of apps, comfortableness, muscle memory, etc. I actually really like it as well.
I just did this.
I currently use a second-from-last generation 11" Macbook air and it works perfectly and I expect it to last another 2-3 years.
However, I just purchased a refurbished latest-generation 11" macbook air, with maximum specs, to keep on reserve.
Now I can put off these decisions for 5 or more years.