The Promise of Upgradeable Gaming Laptops
The Framework 16 is paving the way for a new breed of notebooks that offer the potential for truly upgradeable gaming laptops. With its modular design, users can easily remove and replace the graphics card, much like a desktop PC’s add-in board. This opens up the possibility of upgrading to new, more powerful graphics silicon in the future, without having to buy an entirely new gaming laptop.
However, the success of this concept relies on support from both Framework and AMD. Currently, the Framework 16 is only compatible with mobile AMD GPUs, and there is only one SKU available. It remains to be seen if future generations of graphics cards will be released for this laptop. Nonetheless, the Framework 16 is an impressive achievement and offers a customizable and upgradeable gaming experience.
The Framework 16: A DIY Build Project
The Framework 16 is the gaming laptop every PC gamer dreams of. Its modularity allows users to customize the machine to their liking, making it a potential DIY build project and the starting point for an upgrade journey. The laptop is built with impressive engineering, offering a level of customization rarely seen in gaming laptops. However, the modular design does have its drawbacks, resulting in a slightly wayward finish on the metal spacers.
The Versatility of the Framework 16
One of the standout features of the Framework 16 is its versatility. Users can reconfigure the machine on the fly, depending on their needs and preferences. The ability to easily switch between different configurations makes the laptop adaptable and suitable for various tasks. Whether you’re at home or on the move, the Framework 16 allows you to customize your setup accordingly.
The Potential of Future Upgrades
While the current performance of the Framework 16 is not the best in terms of gaming, its real value lies in its potential. The promise of being able to upgrade to a new generation of graphics chips in the future makes this laptop an attractive choice for those looking for a more affordable upgrade path. Though the cost of the Framework 16 may be higher initially, it could save users money in the long run by avoiding the need to buy a whole new gaming laptop when newer graphics cards are released.
The Gaps in the Framework 16
It’s important to note that the Framework 16 is not a cheap gaming laptop. Its modularity comes with a cost, and its DIY nature does not lend itself to saving money. There are faster gaming laptops available for the same price, and the availability of new graphics cards for this laptop is uncertain. While the current RX 7700S works well, the laptop’s potential depends on the support from both Framework and AMD.
The Conclusion: A Great Option for the Future
Despite its limitations, the Framework 16 is an outstanding achievement and a game-changer in the gaming laptop market. Its customization options, upgradeability, and future potential make it a great choice for tech enthusiasts and those willing to invest in the promise of a more affordable upgrade path. While it may not be the right laptop for everyone, for those who can see the long-term benefits, the Framework 16 is a compelling option.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The Promise of Upgradeable Gaming Laptops
As an analyst, I predict that the market for upgradeable gaming laptops will experience growth due to the potential offered by the Framework 16. The modular design and ability to upgrade graphics cards without buying a whole new laptop are appealing to tech enthusiasts looking for affordable upgrade paths. However, support from both Framework and AMD will be crucial for the success of this concept.