Do you still need to run a Linux VM to get WiFi working? The last time I tried FreeBSD on a laptop, that was a thing. It’s just never been all that focused on laptop/mobile use. I’ve used it as a desktop (okay) and as a server (wonderful). But laptop/daily driver use has just never been a focus. Especially if you are running on a battery or wifi - it’s certainly usable as a desktop/workstation with Ethernet.
I don’t entirely fault FreeBSD for this either - it’s not where they see their niche. So, when you have comparatively limited engineering resources, they shouldn’t be wasting them on areas where their users don’t need them. I personally think that dogfooding your own OS makes for a better OS, but there are already decent laptop OS options.
Focusing on server deployments that don’t need much in terms of graphics or consumer wifi chip support isn’t that big of deal to me.
BSDs handle WiFi fine as long as it's a supported device. Generally meaning there's a BSD-compatible licensed open-source driver for it.
Battery life hasn't been the best story but at present it's pretty good. Same with Linux on that front, maybe still lagging a bit.
If you're going to be running a BSD on a laptop, do some research first and buy one that's well supported. Thinkpads are generally a good choice AFAIK, but you need to look more deeply than a brand or manufacturer.
> when you have comparatively limited engineering resources, they shouldn’t be wasting them on areas where their users don’t need them
Or they could support one laptop well, and the CEO uses that and not a sexy MacBook because it looks cool.