What are your thoughts on Framework Laptops?
What are your thoughts on Framework Laptops?
I believe these devices will not succeed.
Framework laptops address issues that seem nonexistent.
The only real advantage is the ability to upgrade components. However, even this benefit comes with significant drawbacks.
Regarding current laptop challenges:
- Efficiency
Modern laptops suffer from poor efficiency. Solutions exist: improving the x86 architecture (which they are doing now) or switching to an APU instead of a CPU and GPU. I think APUs will become the standard for future laptops. At similar performance levels, APUs offer better cooling, higher efficiency, and lower costs.
- Battery
Two issues arise: First, batteries aren’t easily replaceable. While some models do support it, the designs vary widely, making it hard to justify the extra cost. A possible fix would be standardizing battery shapes. Second, current battery sizes are too small. This stems from a strict regulation that blocks devices with more than 99Wh capacity from being used in aircraft. Some makers have tried increasing capacity but were blocked by this rule. I think raising the limit to around 199Wh would help extend battery life.
Framework laptops fail to tackle these problems and often make them worse:
- Price
These machines are extremely costly—$1400 for a $900 laptop. Expansion cards also add significant expense.
- Proprietary
I’m open to correction, but I think the components used by Framework are exclusive. Even if not intentionally so, they remain unique since no one else has produced parts for these laptops. This raises concerns about their long-term viability.
Intel and AMD's laptop processors all function as APUs, and significant graphics upgrades won't appear until DRAM becomes standard, which would hinder upgradability or repairability. Standardizing battery shapes isn't feasible without broader changes to laptop design, and large batteries remain a weak solution to existing issues. The latest models begin around $849 for DIY builds and $1049 for prebuilt units, though original prices were closer to $1399 despite current discounts. This pricing aligns more closely with current market rates considering screen quality and other factors. Expansion cards appear reasonably priced, except for storage options. These components aren't proprietary, but custom designs take time to develop. Most firms likely avoided complex custom work during the initial phase, suggesting future improvements may emerge. The original pricing targeted enthusiasts, but the updated prices seem more accessible, potentially broadening the user base. They’re introducing a 16-inch model and discrete graphics options, which could further expand opportunities. Collaborating with Cooler Master to develop SFF motherboards will support custom PC builds after upgrades. E-waste remains a major concern, and if Framework succeeds, it could drive industry-wide change. This development holds substantial environmental implications, emphasizing the importance of repairability and reusability. Success here could be pivotal for sustainability, making it a critical matter for the environment.
There are several issues with the present laptop market, particularly regarding repairability, upgrade potential, and electronic waste. Since they don't operate at large volumes, they're focusing on the "ultrabook" segment, which tends to be pricier for certain reasons. Many high-performing laptops already include APUs, but they lack powerful GPUs. While they can't match Apple's figures, some x86 models come close. The battery size restriction exists mainly for safety—higher capacity batteries are more likely to overheat or explode. Until safer battery technology emerges, this will remain a constraint.
You're noticing a $1400 laptop on Framework that you could find for around $900? That seems unusual. Based on what I see, I chose the Framework 13 model with the "Performance" configuration, which costs $1469 and includes:
- Core i7-1360P
- 16 GB RAM
- 512 GB storage
- 61 W battery life
Comparing it to the Dell XPS 13 Plus (55 W, $30 more), and considering Lenovo's X1 Nano Gen 3 at $1511.30 (originally listed at $2159), I don't see a clear equivalent for $900. HP doesn’t appear to offer comparable specs either. They’ve shared their motherboard details and are developing an open-source UEFI, and they’re also working on USB-C ports. Even without major upgrades, the port remains USB-C.
I’m not convinced Framework will fail. Even if a top-tier system builder fully commits to right-to-repair initiatives and pushes them out of business, the goal behind Framework was to demonstrate that an ultrabook can match desktop flexibility in terms of modularity, repairability, upgradability, and reuse.
Clevo has been producing laptops with swappable CPUs and MXM-standard GPUs for some time, but the Framework lets you switch motherboard platforms at any moment, such as from Intel to AMD. The motherboard and GPU parts are proprietary, yet the concept is that after upgrading your laptop, the old motherboard can be reused as a compact desktop version, while older GPUs can fit into an eGPU module for smaller machines. This approach is appealing because the component costs appear very reasonable, and the desktop cases are surprisingly affordable—sometimes even free if you have access to a 3D printer, as they shared the design publicly.
The issue with the "proprietary" aspects feels similar to claiming the IBM 5150 PC is proprietary, since no one else was using anything they had. Framework aims to publish documentation for their parts so anyone can use them. Whether others choose to follow those guidelines depends on their interest.
The whole idea is quite foolish and tries to take advantage of those who aren’t fully informed. A standard laptop is similar in upgradability and repairability to a basic one, but it costs 1.5 times more. It’s also less durable than a MacBook, and if a port fails, fixing it usually means replacing the mainboard, which can cost around £500—far more than what you’d pay for most other models.
It seems you're looking for a concise summary of the situation and options presented. The text describes various troubleshooting steps and alternatives for different issues, along with questions about sourcing replacement parts.
Here are a few problems to note. RAM and storage usually don’t fail, and you can purchase replacement logic boards from Apple. You can also obtain the display from Apple. The battery connects using pull tabs, without needing alcohol. The framework display is of low quality.
If a port on the framework fails, you must buy a completely new mainboard, which can cost as much as buying a new laptop. An Apple logic board for similar performance is roughly one-third the price of the framework and includes an SSD and memory. Also, don’t forget that the Mac is an ultrabook while the framework is a regular laptop, which by default has removable RAM and storage since it doesn’t have size restrictions.
In summary, if you need a framework, consider buying a standard laptop for $600–800. It will likely perform better and be more repairable.