I will most likely be returning my batch 3 Framework Laptop 16 for the following reasons:
- The rear stand in the expansion module digs into my legs when used on my lap, as I mentioned here and on Reddit
- Poor build quality: The input modules don’t line up and have hard plastic lines, as you can see in these pictures
- So-so battery life
Exactly.
Can Framework fix these problems? Maybe, but $2,000 is a lot of money to gamble on a maybe. I’m trying not to fall for the sunk cost fallacy.
There are some things I like about the laptop.
- My choice of the exact ports I want (with a few limitations about placement)
- This is my number one reason for choosing Framework. I hate dongles!
- The display is beautiful, once you turn off AMD Veri-Bright
- And of course unmatched repairability and upgradability
I’m very disappointed because I was so hyped and looking forward to getting this laptop for months.
I’m thinking about a couple different options:
- Downgrade to the AMD Framework 13
- Still get to pick my ports…just fewer ports
- Less screen real estate
- More portable
- More mature platform
- Keep my storage and RAM
- Save a little money
- Still supporting Framework
- Switch to the base model of the 2023 Dell XPS 15 (9530) and replace the RAM and SSD with what I have
- About the same price as a base DIY Framework 16
- From a well-established brand
- A sweet spot between potability and screen real estate
- A Beautiful screen
- All USB-C
