1. FOSS support and free + open + user-controlled, user-repairable, user-upgradable hardware.
2. Webcam and microphone with kill switches.
3. Battery life.
4. (added) Portable: about 13-14" screen, not too heavy.
5. Longevity, durability (sustainability).
6. Other factors: keyboard, touchpad, screen, wifi, quiet.
I'm fortunate that I don't need a GPU or extreme power for my daily laptop driver (and if I do, I have a desktop).
I'm also fortunate financially to be able to own both a Purism Librem 14 and a Framework DIY edition. It feels good to have my money support those causes, and the laptops are both perfect (except the Framework's battery life, so far).