I love LOVE my ($999) Pixelbook. As my primary computer, I can appreciate the fact that the design, build quality, and hardware are second to none. A $600 machine can copy some of the specs but not replicate the entire experience. That said, I've been buying these things since at least as far back as 2012 and they just keep getting nicer and nicer, more powerful and more capable. But they stay as reliable, hassle-free, and as secure as you're going to find.
Software is the only (near) constant from Chromebook to Chromebook and I happen to prefer Chrome OS to Windows. I only use Windows when I want to mess with security software or whatever. Windows is my play machine. Quite the opposite of a lot of other non-gamers use cases.
If you don't want the headaches and hassles that come with a Windows PC, or even a Mac, the best option is probably a Chromebook. And to me, if you're going to use a laptop all the time, you should get the nicest one you can afford. Because you have to use it, every day. Every. Day. Yeah, so really the only thing in question is if I'm getting my money's worth. And maybe not (especially now that they're being sold for $699), but I don't mind splurging on something I really want. YMMV.