Ask HN: Where are we with meltdown and ME? Does an Intel CPU not make sense now?

I'm in the market for a laptop. (Actually, as a quick side note - if you have a specific linux laptop suggestion, by all means bring it.)

Now, obviously both Intel and AMD have security concerns that come with a purchase of their products. But is Intel materially worse?

1) Is it better to avoid Intel until the Management Engine issues are worked out?

2) Is meltdown a specific concern to take into account?