Then the Framework Laptop 13 Pro might be for you, but it's quite expensive.
Though it's repairable nature and easy upgradeability (you can buy a new motherboard when you want to upgrade your CPU, while keeping the same chassis e.g.) might save you some money in the long run

You could just run Linux on a macbook air..

That said, I have used macbooks and thinkpads and the aluminium might feel sturdier it is not. Drop a macbook and your looking at an expensive repair especially if it is case related, basically easier to buy a new one. Thinkpad parts are very plentiful and easy to repair yourself. And the cases may scratch but are not easely damaged.

Edit: I'm talking about the mid to high end thinkpads, comparable in price with macbook. The cheap ones are absolute shit.