What operating system are you planning to use? If you are a Linux user or open to it, you can get amazing performance on older hardware than with Windows. The difference is astonishing, especially compared to Windows 10 or 11.
If you post some details about your budget and needs, it will be easy to make a recommendation.
Need DVD drive?
Need lightweight?
Stuff like that.
In general you can usually trust brands like Asus, Toshiba, and older units like Thinkpads when they were still IBM. Seriously the most vital criteria is whether you are okay with Linux vs Windows. Huge difference in what you would need.