Framework 16 Laptop Overview

Key Features

• Customization: Unprecedented level of customization, repairability, and upgradability.
• Graphics Upgrade: Easy installation of Radeon GPU module; allows fast GPU upgrades.
• Build Quality: Professional design with magnesium alloy bottom shell and CNC aluminum lid.
  • Notable lid flex when twisted but normal usage is fine.
  • Keyboard flex is present but similar to other laptops.

Specifications

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS.
• Graphics: Optional Radeon RX 7700S graphics module (costs an additional $400).
• Installation Process: Simple and documented, can be done in approximately 2 minutes.
• Dimensions: Thicker and heavier with added graphics module, contains extra cooling.

Keyboard and Touchpad

• Custom Placement: Keyboard and touchpad can be positioned according to user preference (middle, left, right).
  • Magnetic alignment, easy to change on-the-fly.
• Lighting Options: RGB keyboard with various customizable effects; numpad has white backlighting.
• Key Customization: VIA software for remapping keys; requires no additional software installation.
• Typing Experience: Good key travel (1.5mm), overall typing experience is pleasant.

Ports and Connectivity

• Expansion Cards: Allows customization of port layout (supports USB Type-A, Type-C, HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4, and more).
• Charging Options: Type-C charging on either side with up to 240 watts.
• SSD Upgrade Options: Additional SSD space can be installed via expansion cards.

Display

• Screen Quality: Taller 16:10 screen; 500 nit brightness, excellent color gamut.
• Response Time: Approximately 9-11ms rise and fall time, suitable for gaming.
• Smart Access Graphics: AMD's MUX solution provides dynamic switching between integrated and discrete graphics.

Performance and Gaming

• Game Performance: Comparable to RTX 4060 and 4070 laptops in various benchmarks (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2).
• Content Creation: Performs well in Adobe Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve, but less effective in Premiere and Blender.
  • Performs better on battery compared to many other laptops.

Thermal Performance

• Cooling System: Three heat pipes and dedicated cooling for CPU and GPU; effective cooling observed.
• Fan Noise: Silent at idle, but louder during heavy workloads, typical for gaming laptops.

Battery Life

• Battery Capacity: 85 watt-hour battery.
• Testing Results: Over 9 hours in YouTube video playback test without graphics module; drains under heavy workload.

Operating System Compatibility

• Linux Support: Tested with Ubuntu 23.10; most peripherals worked out of the box.

Pricing and Availability

• Base Model: Starts at $1399 (DIY version without SSD or RAM).
• Upgrades: Additional costs for graphics module, better processor options, and power adapter.
• Value Proposition: Premium pricing reflects customization and upgrade options rather than raw performance.

Conclusion

• Unique Offering: Framework 16 stands out for customization, repairability, and future-proofing.
• Best for Users Seeking Customization: Ideal for those who prioritize these aspects over raw gaming performance.
• Consider Alternatives: Cheaper options available for those only seeking gaming performance.