My my, so many questions....
Obviously there's a limit to what you should expect from a $200 bike. However it's also a very simple bike, so there is less stuff to break.
Bromptons do fold smaller, but they are also kind of heavy -- around 28 lbs iirc. They are easier to store but not that much easier to carry.
I'd say if you are looking for something ultra-ultra-foldable, you should consider a scooter.