Comparable Alternatives to Cisco C2960x

Hello r/networking!

I am looking for suggestions for a new access switch model that is comparable to the Cisco C2960x platform. Some background- my employer has been using 2960x's forever, and this switch model has reached end of life. We're considered the Cisco C9200, but are not in love with the licensing/subscription model Cisco is requiring. We've been a Cisco shop for a long time, and aren't too familiar with other vendors unfortunately. But now we're looking around to see what other vendors have to offer.

Basic requirements (nothing too fancy):

• [48] 1G copper access ports
• [2-4] 1G SFP uplink ports

1. What non-Cisco vendors do you recommend? HPE/Aruba? Extreme Networks?
2. Do you know of any models of switch that are relatively new (not near end-of-life) that would be a similar replacement for the 2960x?
3. Is it pretty standard for all major vendors to have a "subscription" type licensing model?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions you can provide!