This is only half true. 401k matching typically takes time to vest, and you don't have the same amount of personal control over a 401k. Also, particularly in tech, if you move from a larger company with 401k to a small company with no benefits plan in place, you're not going to be able to roll the 401k stuff into your IRA. Obviously it won't just disappear, but you'll have just leave it in your previous employer's care.