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Gadgets2026-03-18T00:00:00+00:00

Framework Laptop 16: The Right to Repair Revolution

FrameworkLaptopRight to RepairModular
Framework Laptop 16: The Right to Repair Revolution

The Philosophy

Framework's mission is radical: build a laptop where every component can be replaced, upgraded, or repaired by the user. The Laptop 16 is the most ambitious expression of this vision.

Hardware Overview

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS (Zen 5)
  • GPU: Modular — choose between AMD RX 7700S or Framework's own dGPU
  • RAM: 2x DDR5 slots (up to 96GB)
  • Display: 16" 2560x1600, 165Hz, 500 nits
  • Storage: 2x M.2 2280 NVMe
  • Battery: 85Wh (hot-swappable!)
  • Weight: 2.1kg

The Modular System

This is where Framework gets wild:

Expansion Cards

Six expansion card slots that accept USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, MicroSD, Ethernet, and even a secondary SSD. You choose the port layout.

Input Modules

The keyboard and numpad section is fully modular. Swap to a different layout, replace a broken key mechanism, or slot in a macro pad.

GPU Module

The discrete GPU slides out with a single lever. Upgrade your graphics without replacing the entire machine. When a new GPU module launches, you buy just the module — not a new laptop.

My Experience

I've been daily-driving the Laptop 16 for three months. Key observations:

  1. Build quality is premium — no creaks, no flex, machined aluminum throughout
  2. Performance matches competitors — the Ryzen 9 + RX 7700S handles everything from coding to light gaming
  3. Repairability is real — I replaced the Wi-Fi card in 30 seconds. Try that with a MacBook.
  4. Battery life is honest — 8 hours of mixed use, which matches what Framework claims

The Trade-offs

  • Slightly thicker than non-modular competitors
  • Fan noise under load is noticeable
  • Some expansion cards add slight port wobble
  • Limited GPU upgrade path (depends on Framework releasing new modules)

Who Should Buy It?

Anyone who keeps laptops for more than 2 years. The ability to upgrade RAM, storage, GPU, and even the CPU board means this laptop could last 5-7 years. That's sustainable, and it's smart.

Framework sponsored none of this. I bought it at full retail because I believe in the mission.