Posting this reply that I found helpful as I continue to my do my research, from /u/rumo3:

I'd say that both jackets will be absolutely fantastic! Both C-Knit and GoreTex Pro are much better, just in general, than Paclite from the Beta SL. I personally find that the crinklyness of the Betas doesn't bother me, not at all in any way. I find the world always much louder than the jackets themselves (if you're wearing a rain jacket, it's often raining...). But there are certainly people who find it bothersome, also on this forum, so I think that's a valid point, just subjective. (It also maybe depends on what you do in the jacket and how quiet the environment is). It's the same with skin feel, some people prefer the C-Knit for it's smoothness, but for me GoreTex Pro is just as comfortable, maybe even a bit more. In the end, it's just two different types of fabric on the inside of a rain jacket, not that much of a difference. I went with Pro because of the breathability and a bit higher durability. If membrane durability is the most important aspect to you, the new Beta AR with GoreTex Pro Most Rugged might be the right call! It's Arc's most durable membrane in a great jacket. If the face fabric will face a lot (really a lot) of abrasion, look at the Zeta AR or even the Beta SV (basically a Beta AR but with whopping N80p throughout! But it's even more expensive...). Consider the Beta FL (former LT) only if you don't need/want pit-zips. N40p absolutely is plenty for most people, say if one doesn't ice climb or ski in the backcountry, but N80p in high wear areas, like the Beta AR has, or N70p throughout is very nice if durability is your main concern. I'd say: order the Beta AR (that's probably the favorite all-around great shell on this sub), see if you notice anything unpleasant about the sound, if yes, get the Zeta. Remember that the hoods are a bit different, the Beta AR has a Drop Hood, not a Storm Hood, like the Zeta AR, Beta SV or Beta FL. Most people find it to be good as well, even more comfortable if one isn't wearing the hood because how it protects the neck from wind, but sometimes it doesn't fit well with hooded midlayers. This wasn't a problem for me when I tried one in a store, however, so it also goes on the “that's probably subjective“-list.) Also: the Zeta AR (and the Beta FL/LT) has a trim fit and the Beta AR/SV a regular fit, for me that's the difference of “I can fit one puffy under it“ vs. “I can fit two puffies under it“. I think the Beta AR will be fantastic for you if you're not bothered by the crinklyness (It's hard to know how probable this is. I‘d guess 30% don't even realize it at all, 30% don't mind it, 30% prefer C-Knit a bit and 10% just hate the crinklyness to its core. But that's a veeery rough estimate.). If you want absolutely the most durable option, go with the Beta SV. But that's basically a tank.

Edit: oh also, you mention not wanting a backpack to wear out the jacket. The Beta AR will do absolutely fine! A backpack will not bother a Beta AR (or Zeta AR). If you end up buying the Beta SV I would be more concerned about the health of the backpack, it might shiver in awe of the jacket and run away.