Right? I’m curious what pro’s do “at the indy 500”. Most devs where I work use 15” macs and probably a blend of apps from jetbrains toolbox. Mostly connected to power outlets to be fair. So we’re talking local installs of spring boot app Java servers, front end Webserver, an IDE to work on one of those, because opening a second one on a Intel mac will either run the dev out of RAM or the heat will cause a shutdown.

The thing is, the corporate DELL windows machines available were largely unsuitable to dev work due to the trashy interfaces (low resolution screens, bad trackpads, battery life so bad you can’t make it through a 2 hour meeting undocked). The Windows laptops available really failed hard when they needed to be laptops.

It's fine to work sometime on battery. Except, after 5 hours, marginal utility decreases, and 8 hours it goes to zero. Why would I need more than one day?

because you're a "dev" who makes web pages for a company that can't afford an oracle license. and your office is a starbucks. but you want to call your little toy a pro, because to non-programmers, you make missle guidance systems. well not you. but the other few people on this thread.

Yes, using a laptop for over 10 hours on battery is not for people who do any serious work needing a pro laptop - what is in the professional circle called a workstation. Glad you understand. Note apple's stated hours: 11 hours while browsing the internet, and 17 hours for watching videos. If this is your use case, you are not the target market for a workstation. Apple sells "pro" laptops like Kia sells racing cars.