>>1726787>actual mountaineers,That's what they're made for, it makes it easier to climb with. And they're easier to travel with on plane and train.
If you're not mountaineering and are out for more than a couple of days, an external frame is superior.
The chad external frame needs minimal padding and simple shoulder straps/belt and still be reasonably comfortable with heavy weights. While the virgin internal frame need thick pillow cushioning and ultra ergonomic shapes and adjustments to compete with the external in the heavy weight division.