If you're price conscious, buy the self-assembled framework kit. It's fun and takes half an hour to assemble.

I got a framework 16 with a handful of upgrades for $1400. I added 96GB of RAM purchased separately for $300 (before the shortage). I also got a 4TB NVMe for $300. What do those upgrades cost cost in a macbook?

I think most people care more about their OS than their hardware specs, so they defend their purchase like it's part of their identity and it's hard to have a rational discussion.

Edit: If you're talking about the Intel model, I agree with you. The Ryzens are fantastic.