My Last Gaming Laptop - Framework 16 Full Review
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Promos
Sell your old graphics card the easy way and offset the cost of your new card at bit.ly Feel the power! Buy a Seasonic TX 1000 PSU at lmg.gg Can manufacturers finally get it right when it comes to upgradeable gaming laptops? Framework wants to try with the Framework 16, featuring a DGPU that only takes 6 screws and a few minutes of your time to swap out. Discuss on the forum: linustechtips.com Checkout dbrand skins for the Framework Laptop 16: dbrand.com (SPONSOR) Buy a Framework Laptop 16: lmg.gg Buy a Lenovo Legion Slim 7i Gaming Laptop: lmg.gg (Canada: lmg.gg ) Buy an ASUS TUF A16 Gaming Laptop: lmg.gg (Canada: lmg.gg ) Purchases made through some store links may provide some compensation to Linus Media Group. ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg ► EQUIPMENT WE USE TO FILM LTT: lmg.gg ► OUR WAN PODCAST GEAR: lmg.gg FOLLOW US --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Facebook: @LinusTech Instagram: @linustech TikTok: @linustech Twitch: twitch.tv MUSIC CREDIT --------------------------------------------------- Intro: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High Video Link: youtube.com Listen on Spotify: spoti.fi Artist Link: youtube.com Intro animation by MBarek Abdelwassaa @mbarek_abdel Monitor And Keyboard by vadimmihalkevich / CC BY 4.0 geni.us Mechanical RGB Keyboard by BigBrotherECE / CC BY 4.0 geni.us Mouse Gamer free Model By Oscar Creativo / CC BY 4.0 geni.us CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:00 Intro 1:25 Modular 2:25 DGPU Removal 3:25 Keyboard Issues 5:02 Speakers 6:05 IO 7:45 Repairability 9:02 Benchmarks 12:39 Battery and Thermals 14:18 Webcam and Mic 14:45 Display 15:32 Price 15:57 Conclusion
The Framework 16 is presented as a groundbreaking attempt at a truly upgradable gaming laptop, with every component designed to be user replaceable and serviceable. The host emphasizes Framework’s modular philosophy, including swappable IO modules, a removable GPU, and a configurable keyboard area, all aimed at extending the laptop’s lifespan far beyond typical cycles. The GPU swap process is demonstrated step by step, highlighting how Framework claims a couple of minutes for a swap, though real-world labor and tool quality can affect the experience. Despite the bold modular promise, the reviewer notes significant trade offs, such as keyboard quality and chassis rigidity, which impact the overall value at the laptop’s price. The video shifts to a broader hardware comparison, pitting the Framework 16 against competing laptops like the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i and an ASUS TUF A16, focusing on benchmarks, thermals, and power efficiency. The designer note about the DIY edition and pre-assembly process underlines Framework’s unique approach to customization. The conclusion underscores the potential of a truly flexible platform while acknowledging that for most buyers, the price-to-performance ratio and some build compromises may steer them toward traditional laptops or desktops. The collaboration with sponsor content and accessory partners like dbrand is integrated as part of the product ecosystem, illustrating how Framework sits within a broader modular PC culture. Ultimately, the video frames the Framework 16 as possibly the last gaming laptop a user might need if Framework continues to deliver improvements and robust upgrade paths. The review ends with a forward-looking note on support, part availability, and the ongoing evolution of modular laptops in the industry.
Topics · technology · hardware · laptops · reviews
Questions answered
- What makes the Framework 16 modular and how does that affect repairability?
- The Framework 16 features modular IO slots, a removable discrete GPU, and replaceable keyboard area, which together allow end users to swap or customize components with minimal tools and effort, enhancing repairability and upgradability.
- How does the GPU swap process work and is it practical for most users?
- The GPU swap involves removing a few screws, lifting the GPU interposer, and sliding out the card. Framework claims this can be done in a few minutes, but practical experience shows it requires careful handling and the right tools, making it feasible for enthusiasts but perhaps daunting for casual users.
- Is the Framework 16 worth the price compared to rivals?
- Value depends on what you prize most; theFramework 16 offers extraordinary upgrade potential and modularity, but its price and some build compromises like keyboard and display quality may not appeal to everyone, especially when competing laptops offer lower prices for similar gaming performance.