Agree - I jumped from a OnePlus 5T to a Pixel 5a 2 years ago and have no regrets. It really depends on what you’re modding for, but I found that on Pixel not having (as much) bloatware, getting the latest Android updates, having real Google Camera support instead of chasing the best mod, and using Wavelet instead of Viper4Android took care of most of my rooting needs. Instead, with the unlockable bootloader I’ve been able to explore custom OSes like GrapheneOS which has been really great!
I got a Supernote A5X to read papers - I’m very happy with it and wouldn’t want a tablet. I specifically wanted a dumb device dedicated to notes/reading that I wouldn’t connect to the internet, which really helps me focus. The eink display is easy to read and is a great break from screens, it feels natural to write on.
However it’s not perfect - eink has a small lag in turning pages, so if you intend on flipping through a ton of pages while coding that may be a pain. The searching experience also isn’t great, typing takes longer because of the lag. I use it as an advanced notebook rather than a smart device, and I love it from that lens.