In today’s fast-paced tech world, most laptops are hard to upgrade or repair. The Framework Laptop changes that by offering a fully modular, customizable design. It puts the power back in your hands to build, fix, and upgrade your device easily. This fresh approach promotes sustainability and long-term use like never before.
What is the Framework Laptop?
The Framework Laptop is a revolutionary notebook designed with one bold mission: to put you in control of your technology. Unlike most laptops that are sealed shut and nearly impossible to upgrade or repair, the Framework Laptop is built around modularity, repairability, and customization. Every major component-RAM, storage, ports, keyboard, even the motherboard-can be swapped, upgraded, or replaced by the user, often with just a screwdriver and a little curiosity.
Why Was the Framework Laptop Created?
Framework Computer, the company behind the laptop, was founded in 2020 in the United States. Their goal is to challenge the wasteful, disposable nature of modern electronics by making a laptop that lasts, adapts, and empowers its owner. Framework is a vocal supporter of the right-to-repair movement, believing consumers should have the freedom to fix and upgrade their devices rather than throw them away.
Key Models and Features
The original and most popular model, the Framework Laptop 13, now in its fifth generation, offers Intel and AMD processor options, up to 96GB DDR5 RAM, and a 2.8K 120Hz display. It’s lightweight (about 1.3kg), with a 13.5” screen and a 3:2 aspect ratio for productivity.
The Framework Laptop 16 is a larger, more powerful version designed for creators and gamers, supporting up to AMD Ryzen 9 CPUs, discrete Radeon graphics, and a 16” 165Hz display. It features even more modularity, including a replaceable GPU and keyboard.
For those who want a hands-on experience, the DIY Edition allows buyers to assemble the laptop themselves, choosing their own RAM, storage, and even operating system. This edition is perfect for tinkerers and those who want to save money or reuse existing components.
What Makes Framework Different?
What truly sets Framework apart is its modularity. Want more storage or a faster processor? Just swap out the relevant module. Need different ports? Slide in a new expansion card-USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and more.
Every part is labeled with a QR code linking to step-by-step guides, making repair and upgrades accessible to most users. Framework laptop consistently scores 10/10 on repairability scales, a rarity in the laptop market.
The company also emphasizes sustainability by using recycled materials, offering carbon offset shipping, and minimizing electronic waste by letting users upgrade instead of replace.
Additionally, Framework embraces an open ecosystem by open-sourcing some hardware designs, encouraging a community of makers and developers to create new modules and accessories.
User Experience: The Pros and Cons
Users praise Framework laptops for their flexibility, solid performance, and the sheer joy of being able to customize their machines. Tech enthusiasts love the freedom to upgrade or repair almost anything.
However, early models and even the latest Framework Laptop 16 have faced some teething issues: heat and fan noise, firmware glitches, and occasional hardware quirks like touchpad malfunctions or sleep mode bugs. While many issues have been addressed through updates, the experience isn’t always as seamless as with mainstream laptops from bigger brands.
What’s Next for Framework?
Framework continues to innovate, recently launching laptops with the latest AMD Ryzen AI processors and Wi-Fi 7 support. The company’s roadmap includes more upgrades and accessories, and a growing community is developing new modules and mods.
But as with any ambitious startup, there’s some uncertainty about long-term support and the pace of improvements. Still, Framework’s commitment to transparency and user empowerment sets it apart in a crowded market.
Final Thoughts
The Framework Laptop isn’t just another gadget-it’s a statement about how technology should serve its users, not the other way around. If you value freedom, flexibility, and sustainability, and don’t mind the occasional technical hiccup, the Framework Laptop could be your perfect companion for years to come.