I would say it depends on how “good” (defined by academia) you are. If you think you’re a super star, then academia all the way. If you think you’re about avera

I would say it depends on how “good” (defined by academia) you are. If you think you’re a super star, then academia all the way. If you think you’re about average (especially at the phd stage), then industry may be more attractive. Being a successful academic (eg consistent publications in top conferences or journals) brings a qualitatively better life style than SWE at a company. You are globally recognised as an expert, can travel to meet like minded colleagues all over the world, and have full control of how you spend your time. If however you’re struggling in academia, then it can be brutal because you spend more and more of your time trying to attract resources to continue your work.