Need a new laptop. Recommendations?

[JDC]

12. I'm not sure I understand the question.

I run Mac OS for all my day to day. But for times when I need to run windows or need to run Linux, I turn on my VMWare and boot whichever OS I want to run in parallel with my MacBook OS. I can toggle from "machine" to "machine" in real time as they are both running simultaneously. It is a battery suck I'll admit, but I'm plugged into power mostly. Things get slower on the machines if I have all 3 OSs running at the same time. I usually just pause one so I only have 2 running max at any given time. The VMWare offers "Unity" mode where all OSs are given a blended feel, but it's a pain and kinda confusing.

It is much more efficient when you use 2 or three monitors. If you want 3, you'll have to get a docking station/hub. Belkin makes an OK one. What's nice is I usually have 2 Deaktops set up per monitor, so I can run multiple apps in their own screen and just toggle between them with a fingers swipe or hot corner.

One thing about my Mac that I do not like is that it only has 4 USB-C ports. Period. Good that Any of which can be used for power and accessories; BUT, I have to use a dongle if I don't have my dock connected. So if I want to use a thumb drive that is regular USB, out comes the dongle. HDMI so I can connect to a customer's conference room projector...dongle. It's a pain.