“ideal” groupset for a “modernish” touring bike

Hi there,

I am currently stuck in a loop of overthinking (probably). My plan is build a touring bike that will last for thousands of kilometres/miles.

These are the current must-haves:

1. frame and fork -> steel
2. semi-hydraulic disc brakes (TRP probably)
3. wheels I am going to built myself with a SON dyno-hub
4. heavy duty front and rear rack
5. (bar end shifters)
6. (if 2×10, there are also STIs available for mechanical brakes)

What I am stuck on is the groupset. I just don't know what to pick. Currently there is a sale of 2×11 Shimano GRX that probably do the job just fine but I am also curious about a Microshift Sword 2×10 setup which is also somewhat affordable. In both cases I would most likely use Microshift bar end shifters (these are available for 2×10 and 2×11).

To give you some backround; my current bike has its limits. Like ALL of my bicycles it is old, probably made in 1989. While it is still in a well maintained good condition, it has a somewhat little tire clearance of approx. 37mm, a 3×8 Deore LX (formally 3×6) groupset with Cantilevers and non indexed bar end shifters, a dyno mounted behind the bottom bracket and for 2000+ km trips not the best geometry. Especially the tire clearance and the geometry makes me reluctant to upgrade it even more. Also its rear spacing is limited to 130mm.

The most modern bike I have is a high-end mid-90s road bike with a Campagnolo Record 2×11 installed, but other than that I lack first-experience with anything more modern.

I don't want to run a fully hydraulic brake system due to reasons. I just don't trust it, might be stupid, but I just don't want to end up in the middle of nowhere with a leaking system.

So my questions are:

1. Generally speaking, is a 2×10 setup more durable for whatever reason (could be the cassettes/chains are more durable?)
2. Is Microshift "good enough" to withstand the beating of trips that last weeks/months? This also includes the 2×10 crankset Microshift offers. I am just unsure how good the quality is and a broke crank arm is no fun.
3. Is Shimano the better choice for whatever reason? If so why?
4. Does the additional sprocket (2×10 vs. 2×11) make that much of a difference?
5. Are there other factors I have forgotten? Any other brands/groups that are worth checking out?
6. What rear hubs would be a good choice?
7. Should I go Rohloff?

*picture related, somewhere in France last year