Framework’s Most-Repairable Gaming Laptop Could Be the Only One You will Ever Want

When we discuss of “desktop replacement” laptops, we normally converse when it comes to uncooked efficiency, not upgradability. Framework, the corporate behind a number of generations of ultra-repairable and modular laptops and mini PCs, is the one firm that may name its gadgets an possibility in the event you demand true customizability. The firm is again once more with a brand new iteration of its Framework 16, packing new CPU and GPU choices with a full-fledged detachable Nvida possibility. If the texture is pretty much as good because it was with the Framework Laptop 13, the brand new mannequin might show to be the final laptop computer you’ll ever want, actually.

The revitalized Framework Laptop 16 now comes with an possibility for as much as an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070. Nvidia’s mid-range GPU is at its finest with gaming at round 1440p decision. The GPU is usually restricted by its 8GB of GDDR7 VRAM, which goes to hinder it for greater resolutions and for actual future-proofing. If you don’t wish to improve for some time, you’re higher off with a discrete graphics processing unit with at the very least 16GB of VRAM. Normally, I might warning anyone with this reality in the event that they thought of a system with these restricted graphics. Instead, Framework’s modularity signifies that you might improve your GPU slightly than having to purchase a whole new and more and more costly gaming laptop computer.

On the CPU aspect, you continue to have choices of AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 sequence CPUs, which can both be a Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9. The higher-end 12-core CPUs will likely be obligatory in the event you anticipate to do any intensive duties as much as and together with gaming.

If you have got the older Framework Laptop 16, the brand new RTX 50-series module ought to be backwards suitable, in response to Framework. Even past the graphics uplift, the brand new module has quite a few different advantages, together with energy and exterior monitor assist by way of the rear USB-C port. This module will assist as much as 100W TDP, which on older modules would push the followers to jet engine ranges. Framework claims it reengineered its thermal design to maintain the gadget cool whereas being much less noisy. There’s additionally a brand new 240W energy brick to produce the required energy and—higher but—it’s utilizing USB-C slightly than any proprietary port.

The last-gen Framework 16 made use of an AMD Radeon RX 7700S graphics module. It was sufficient for some graphics eventualities, however ultimately it wasn’t practically as succesful as a full discrete Nvidia GPU. While AMD nonetheless has not provided any trace it plans to carry its Radeon RX 9000 sequence desktop graphics playing cards to laptops, players’ solely alternative for cellular graphics able to taking part in the newest AAA releases remains to be Team Green. Now that it’s inside a detachable module constructed for Framework’s laptops, I can already see it changing into a go-to for DIY builders attempting to provide you with their very own distinctive PCs.

If you eschew the brand new graphics module, you possibly can nonetheless go for the Radeon RX 7700S. If you don’t need both, you possibly can go for the Expansion Bay shell with room for different elements. The gadget will assist 4 show outputs by way of its 4 growth card slots. These dongles stick into the open growth slots on the laptop computer shell for any model of I/O your coronary heart wishes. As for RAM and storage, you possibly can go for RAM as much as 96GB and as much as 10TB of storage by way of the 2 M.2 SSD slots.

I’m nonetheless utilizing my Framework Laptop 13. There’s one thing intrinsic about realizing you place one thing collectively—that you already know what’s inside it and learn how to take it aside if obligatory. That sense of possession sadly comes at a premium. The Framework Laptop 16 begins at $1,500 with out the GPU. The gadget comes inventory with a 2,560 x 1,600 IPS LCD panel that goes as much as a 165Hz refresh price with Nvidia G-Sync. Gaming laptops that vary from $2,000 on up usually provide mini LED or OLED shows with higher distinction and/or brighter screens.

The beginning value is $100 greater than the 2023 mannequin, and you’ll anticipate particular person modules will price extra, as nicely. Still, the considered lastly having a real gaming-ready laptop computer with Framework’s customizability is sufficient to spark a touch of pleasure, even from any individual who has clacked away on method too many gaming laptops in 2025 alone.