I’ve got a 2017 12” MacBook, and I love the form factor. It’s super light and easier to travel with. Downsides are the anemic Intel processor and lack of Thunderbolt as it only has one USB-C port. I thought when buying usb-c would be enough but now I wish it had a bit more oomph.
I feel like I’m part of the target demographic, and I wouldn’t touch a Macbook with an A17, I’d rather grab my iPad. I doubt the A17 would handle Thunderbolt, and I don’t think the cost of an M1 or M2 is that much more than an A series to bring the price down significantly. The new Mac Mini is a good example of that. I think if you went with a cheaper screen and plastic case you’d have more savings.