The high-end Thinkpads are generally safe choices. I've been really happy with my Broadwell X250, although there were similar kernel issues when it was flunking

The high-end Thinkpads are generally safe choices. I've been really happy with my Broadwell X250, although there were similar kernel issues when it was flunking new. Still does ~20 hours with extended battery after more than a year of heavy usage. And they're some of the most robust portables available.