I usually go and buy a new computing device once every 6 years or so. This year my trusty Late 2017 Apple MacBook Pro i5 8GB/500GB is officially sunsetted. While I’ve been eyeing a new Macbook to take its place, it would be one of the newer Apple Silicon M2 joints. But I really want to jump back into doing all my computing in Linux full time and also game more so… I’m taking a chance here.
I’ve always dreamed of a modular laptop since it’s kind of the only way I can get the specs and ports I want. Framework makes it possible by having this form factor that should never be obsolete; all the parts are user serviceable and replaceable including the motherboard, ports, screen, keyboard, and so on.
My config is the 16 inch Ryzen™ 9 7940HS – Radeon™ RX 7700S – 180W. That’s right, there’s a kick-ass discreet graphics card in there and it’s user swappable! Whenever the new hotness comes along, or other modules like an extra battery or whatever is needed, its a simple 10 minute swap out needing only a screwdriver (which is also included).
The bad news: I gotta wait until Spring 2024. The good news, I can save up the rest of the money by Spring 2024– this thing IS NOT cheap; about $1000 more than my current Mac was when I bought it new in 2017. BUT it will basically become the workhorse PC as I plan on using it for work, home-labbing, and gaming. Any tool you use to make your livelihood off of should have no expense spared (within reason.)
You can check out more here: https://frame.work/products/laptop16-diy-amd-7040
The Framework Laptop 16 is a high-performance laptop with an upgradeable and completely modular design that allows endless options for configuration, including a fully reconfigurable input deck and modular discrete graphics.
Leave a Reply