Compute Module Upgrades for pi-top [3] - Opinions / Experiences

pi-top [3]
#1

Does anyone have an opinion on either of these Compute Modules + pi-top [3] combinatons?

  1. Waveshare CM4-NANO-B + Pi CM4 or CM5 looks promising though will it will involve a lot of cable)
    https://www.waveshare.com/cm4-nano-b.htm

  2. Waveshare CM4-IO-BASE-B + Pi CM4 or CM5 (this would reuse the GPIO and and heat bridge but would require re-positioning the double-USB ribbon cable to the second opening in the pitop case - how hard is this? It seems people preferred to cut through the case instead so I am assuming it is not an easy cable to move.) So that might leave the first pairing as the only option. https://www.waveshare.com/product/cm4-to-pi3-adapter.htm

I am aware there are some more ‘plug and play’ pitop3 compatible SBC options from Banana Pi, Libre (Potato, Alta/Cottonwood, Renegade) , Asus Tinkerboard , etc but if possible I would to stay in the Raspberry Pi ecosystem… if possible…
opinions / experiences from those who have used the compute modules with the pitop 3?

#2

This new board from Waveshare for the CM5 also looks promising, again, if an inch or so of wiggle room can be obtained from the double USB cable. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Waveshare-Compatible-Raspberry-Evaluating-Integrated/dp/B0DXZXH2H6?s=computers&tag=333337lee-21&language=en_GB

I am wondering how it would compare to this board for the CM4

I am leaning towards the CM4 possibly because of the 3.5mm audio and the fact it could be “plug and play” with the 3B footprint of the Pi-top[3] including the heatsink bridge. Has anyone tried this combination (Waveshare board + CM4) to confirm the Audio does indeed work as intended on the pi-top ? I notice on waveshare’s page it says: “Audio Interface 3.5mm Headphone Audio Jack, USB Audio Solution” not sure what this means for compatibility. Maybe someone experienced can chime in?