What kind of SBC to use for such a project really is an interesting question.
On one hand I would love a "shell" where I could just plug in a compute module and have a working portable. On the other hand, the compute modules are more expensive and seem really hard to source, why it's easy and cheap to find a Pi Zero. If one would need to solder it to an expansion board oneself, this would probably be a hurdle for many people. And then, if we are thinking about different boards, why not something else entirely? With more/better capabilities, like included charging circuit or as you mentioned, PCI-E?
I guess there is just no good answer on what would be an adequate basis for such a type of computer. Every option has some drawbacks somewhere.
On one hand I would love a "shell" where I could just plug in a compute module and have a working portable. On the other hand, the compute modules are more expensive and seem really hard to source, why it's easy and cheap to find a Pi Zero. If one would need to solder it to an expansion board oneself, this would probably be a hurdle for many people. And then, if we are thinking about different boards, why not something else entirely? With more/better capabilities, like included charging circuit or as you mentioned, PCI-E?
I guess there is just no good answer on what would be an adequate basis for such a type of computer. Every option has some drawbacks somewhere.