I apologise if this is the wrong community to post this in, I wasn’t sure which one was ideal.
I’m suffering a difficult decision of choosing between a Framework laptop or a Macbook Air (M1, 2020). I really like the ethical principles of Framework, i.e. you actually own it and can repair it any time, leading to an increased longevity. At the same time, I have heard people claim Macbook is superior in almost all aspects (especially battery life).
I know both Apple and Microsoft are greedy CorpGiants, but seeing as I have an iPhone, I figure it would be easier using a Mac? But then again, the prices really are not worth it, especially considering it costs a lot to repair them. I have 0 experience with Linux, and this computer will be used at school, so I suppose it stands between macOS and Windows.
I guess I just want some advice? Or some guidance and comparisons. Is 8GB enough for a Framework laptop? The 16GB version costs nearly as much as the Mac I’m looking at, hence my hesitance. If anybody has some experience using Framework and / or Macbook, I would love to hear about it. What are some pros and cons? Which people are better off with FW and Mac respectively?
Thank you!
*Edit, forgot to mention: I need a Swedish keyboard on the computer, and Framework apparently only offers English. This is the largest obstacle preventing me from leaning towards FW.
What do you do on your laptop? For example, engineering students and STEM hobbyists probably want Windows, maybe Linux depending on their interests, specced out to run CAD or whatever simulation software their major will dictate. Graphic artists and photographer hobbyists might want Mac.
Framework laptops can ship with Windows already installed. You can also install Windows or Linux yourself, but Linux is not required.
You mention you don’t know Linux, but how comfortable are you with hardware? Can you open your current laptop and add memory? Are you interested in upgrading your laptop hardware periodically or is it going to be a chore you avoid?
Your question on 8 vs 16GB memory should be driven by your use. Personally, 8gb isn’t enough for me anymore, it locks out a lot of newer games and programs that I want to use. Does your school recommend OS and specs for your major? Make sure those are met at a minimum.
I will be studying cyber security and network infrastructure with some limited script programming. I understand it is far easier to use Windows if you study in engineering.
I am interested in Linux, but seeing as Microsoft is very closed-off (cannot use installed versions of Microsoft365), I am a bit unsure if I want to fully commit to it. I am absolutely willing to try running it and getting a feel of it, though.
What does the process look like when you install Windows on your own? Is it difficult / costly?
You basically have a usb-stick with the windows installer… stick it it… boot from it (usually F12 or F8 at start brings up the menu)… and follow the steps on the screen… and thats it.
But if you are unsure you can also pay like 20 or 30$ for some shop to do it for you.
If you think Microsoft has closed off Windows, what until you learn about Apple/Mac…
I am aware of that, I was just saying.
No offense, but I don’t get why you’re looking at MAC OR FRAMEWORK.
You don’t need either, you’re not an Apple fanboy and you aren’t into graphic design or video editing type jobs/hobbies… Mac isn’t for you.
You aren’t into hardware or Linux, you don’t even have strong knowledge on how much memory you would need or what keeping it upgraded would entail. Framework isn’t for you.
Why not a normal Windows laptop where you aren’t paying a premium for branding? Unless the brand is what’s most important to you, in which case that’s totally your personal call. Want to be an Apple-vibe person or a Framework-vibe person?