I have a raspberry pi that I use for my retro gaming system and I've seen some of the build-it-yourself laptops people have created from them. They're neat, but not as powerful as what I am looking for. I wanted something comparable in performance to Lenovo or Mac.

Somewhat. I have accepted that eliminating the threat 100% is not possible, but my perfectionist self still wants to get as close as possible. Maybe I will save up for one of those kick-ass X-ray machines!

So far Snapdragon is one A LOT of people are recommending. I wanted something highly up-gradable which is why I considered Framework. Since I've heard about battery life issues and...questionable associates, I will pass on Framework. The RISC V was at the top of my list for boards but after hearing how much extra work it is going to be, I think I will pass on it too.

Right now my top contenders are:

1. Snapdragon laptop
2. MNT Reform
3. Starlabs

Which ones are the most up-gradable/customizeable? I want something that just might be the last full laptop I will have to buy (best case scenario).

I was hoping to get something this fall. If I could get something this summer, that would be great but I know it would be rushing. If I decide on risc-v, it doesn't matter. Because I would have to wait however long they make me. 😭

"Protect my privacy" is really my overall philosophy with ANYTHING tech-related. It's more being extra cautious/paranoid than anything else. The hardware itself supposedly doesn't track you, but I still don't 100% trust either side of the duopoly. Better safe than sorry. 😅

Do you recommend side-loading it or use Obtainium?

Thanks, I'll remember that. I am not going to worry about other OS's besides GrapheneOS...for now. I just got my first de-googled phone setup. The next milestone (and possible endgame) would be a phone that has open source hardware and that I can fully control, including any software installed.

😂

I don't think so. I followed the instructions at GraphenOS using the web installer. I bought the phone refurbished with OEM unlocked.