A rant about the Framework 16's lack of gaming capability

[Xavier_Jiang]

@FWPL

Framework would opt for outdated hardware from launch if they actually think about sustainability as they have put forward they do.

I think its connectivity reasons? This is also why the new AI Max 340 is not coming to the Framework 16. I think.

Like the “AI 9 HX 370”. Nope, only 16 lanes. Not enough. Framework need 17+ (8x + 4x + 4x + 1x). Ideally 18+ (wifi get 2x instead of 1x).
To be fair, they can just route 1x or 2x to the SSDs. But that would be quite a compromise, especially since its PCIe gen 4, and a lot of people are still running gen 3 drives (like me).

[Hok]

Thanks for this thread… I was very close to getting a 16… but I am need to use Windows and I would like to use the laptop for some very intermittent gaming without having to tinker with the computer… I think its not ready. I will be waiting for more wider practicality.

[TheLPeink]

Nothing to be the Devil’s advocate here, but literally days ago a BIOS update (3.06) was released, and it solved all my problems in using my FW16 on Atlas OS, gaming with the 7700S. The system now runs very well, no stuttering on 180w or 240w power supplies. Does not drain battery on “Balanced mode”, only in “ Max performance” in combination with the 180w OEM one.

Battlefield 6 beta and Helldivers II tested.

2100 points in Steel Nomad.

TL;DR: if the 7700S is enough for you, now it runs as it should.

[FWPL]

Unfortunately it is difficult to recommend the Framework 16 in August 2025 due to its price policy. I just checked and the laptop still costs 2500 Euros, same price as 2 years ago. 2 years is ages in tech, other 2 year old laptops certainly do not have the same price tag. I suggest to have a look at slightly older Razer Blades or Dell XPS. For 2500 Euros you will find that other laptops provide more gaming capabilities (unfortunately).

[James3]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone tried my windows ectool with the FW16 3.0.6 BIOS.

It apparently has an ectool interface, so winring0 might not be needed.

[Hok]

Thanks the GPU is not available for purchase though… I specd one out and can only use the integrated graphics…

[Hok]

I am looking at the Framework systems because of the upgradability but as you said the hardware is two years old…

[Xavier_Jiang]

@TheLPeink

but literally days ago a BIOS update (3.06)

Where?

Framework Laptop 16 BIOS and Driver Releases (AMD Ryzen™ 7040 Series)

Wait

bruh

If you copy the link (which for windows is)

https://downloads.frame.work/bios/Framework_Laptop_16_Amd_Ryzen7040_BIOS_3.05.exe

And just change it to https://downloads.frame.work/bios/Framework_Laptop_16_Amd_Ryzen7040_BIOS_3.06.exe
you get the 3.06.

framework, lol

But there is no EFI package yet. Really, it take 3 days to compile?

[Gmanny]

@Xavier_Jiang

Where?

Framework Laptop 16 Ryzen 7040 BIOS 3.06 Release BETA

Highlights Added Framework’s dbx key and updated the default CA of Windows Secure Boot. Fixed an issue where hardware encryption on OPAL drives could cause a missing boot drive on subsequent reboots. Fixed battery drain issues occurring with the Balanced Power Profile. Fixed CPU power limits to prevent unnecessary limitation when the GPU is in BOCO mode. Introduced Battery Charge Limiting status functionality. Introduced the Framework EC device. Note: Once you update to 3.06, you can downgra…

[wojciech_migas]

yes, it works on Windows. I’ve just tested it.

[TheLPeink]

I have! Works without LibreHardwareMonitorning, just as it should.

[jared_kidd]

@Xavier_Jiang

But there is no EFI package yet. Really, it take 3 days to compile?

A call on 240w adapter

About freaking time! Looks like the bootable upgrade is there as well: https://downloads.frame.work/bios/Framework_Laptop_16_Amd_Ryzen7040_BIOS_3.06.zip Can’t figure out the Linux specific link though, but most just get that through fwupdmgr anyway. I’m sure it will be up there when they are ready.

[FWPL]

It pains me to say this as I am in support of Framework, but at some point it has to be noted when people are asking for purchase opinions that it has simply not been reduced in price - while some parts on their website have. If you look for good business laptops you should have a look at Lenovo laptops, even used ones. Even the P1 series has surprising gaming performance for that price.