What do I look for? I'd like something powerful enough to run games, just in case I'm away from my console, but it'll mostly be used for work. Ideally I'd like it to be durable, because I'll probably have to take it on flights when Covid eventually burns out.
What's the lesser of two evils with Intel and AMD? One is run by a woman, the other talks about the future belonging to women.
I suppose I could buy used and negate that issue.
What's a good brand to get? I always had Lenovo before, except for a Surface Laptop that barely lasted a year.
AMD has less track record of throwing away money at DIE causes vs. Intel. Not that they are perfect given recent announcements.
Most laptop brands aren't that great now (if they ever were). For gaming you have to compromise on size, heat/noise, and battery life, and of course cost. I would travel with an ultrabook and Nintendo Switch, felt that gave me the best balance. Now I might be tempted to go with a Steam Deck and ultrabook.
The Lenovo Legion line is probably where I would go if I was in the market. Razer have tempted me as well, but they have poor long term track record (buy extended warranty for sure).
Good luck.