I switched to a B&R commuter with 4 wheels for my short (2hr) flights and multiple segments through long airports. I use it for Europe as well. It fits everywhere and I can put my briefcase which is full of tech on top. It’s much easier to manage on trains and buses (yes you have to hold onto it-but same for 2 wheels depending on the vehicle. It works fine as a two wheeler when needed. A bonus for me is that I can use it instead of my cane when I need it for balance (back issue). Each time I travel I try to take less-thank you Doug of OneBag, so I can pack for a four day trip in the commuter. And after 25 years of travelling I realized that packing for a month is really similar to packing for one week-and who knew, there are stores everywhere:-)
I have an old B&R Transcend 2 wheeler which is a bit cheaper build than the current baseline. It’s indestructible, having been gate checked in multiple countries, dragged through Europe, on cobblestones, buses, trucks,and in rainstorms. I have to use the strap to put the weight on the wheels when carrying the briefcase.
Two wheelers if you are buying a less expensive bag I think would be most reliable. For B&R the four wheels have been good (I also have a 24”B&R to check with 4 wheels-never damaged in 8 years). If you prefer a duffel style to check, the B&R 2 wheel with the lower compartment, is great- a friend of mine drags hers through Nepal India Europe etc regularly and it looks like new.
a colleague of mine uses the Samsonite B-lite 4 wheel. She travels 100k per year and no issues. Most of her travel is in taxis buses and planes in cities.
I prefer the B&R 4 wheel- it’s simple, low key and tough- the only issue is that they are heavier than many other choices-usually 2-3 lbs more. I take the transcend 2 wheel if it’s likely it will need to be checked a lot (though I have had to gate check) the commuter on Barbie planes and no issues.
my briefcase is Tom Bihn dynema Pilot or a leather backpack.