I was debating between the MBA and Framework. For me the deal breakers were:

* The MBA comes with 256GB which is not enough storage, especially since when you run out of space you have to buy a whole new laptop to get more. That's compounded by the high prices that Apple charges for storage upgrades. The cost of upgrading to a 2TB SSD and 16GB of RAM (just the upgrade, NOT including the base price of the laptop) is more than an entire Framework laptop with a 2TB SSD and 16GB of RAM

* IIRC the MBA only supports 1 external monitor. The Framework supports 4 external monitor at 4k144hz (I'd only ever need 2, but it's nice to have extra headroom).

* Ideological reasons I won't belabor

How does your Framework perform with dual 4k144hz monitors? My 16” 2019 intel macbook pro really struggled even at its max output of 60hz. My new M1 Max doesn’t miss a beat.

It's still in the mail, so we'll see! As long as it avoids the macOS issue where my left and right monitors randomly flip positions, I'll be happy :)

The Framework product has a much bigger value: it demonstrates that it is possible to deliver a consumer product with less builtin obsolescence. If they can stay profitable long-term they will be an important POC that we do not need to maximize obsolescence for a company to survive.

It's unfortunate the modern Macbooks are such sealed boxes. The M1 compares surprisingly favorably against even the i7-1165G7 that you get in the Framework "Performance" series. About the only advantage you get with Intel right now is the higher maximum addressable memory (64GB vs 24). And Windows, of course, if you consider that an advantage.

The base model is $829 at Microcenter and $849 at Costco.