Thanks everyone for your information and suggestions!
A couple of people mentioned looking at the DIY option, and it sounded like fun. I found all the alternative parts I wanted for a bit lower cost than the ones packaged with the Framework, but ultimately, even if I downgraded my RAM to half a gig, it was still less expensive to get the pre-built because I don’t have any parts lying around to reuse.
For reference, Framework just came out with a list of compatible RAM that they have tested:
and there’s a Poll in the forums that has a recent list of other options that people are trying from Crucial, g.skill, etc.
Since the RAM options I was considering would only save me a few bucks and weren’t on the compatibility list, I decided I’d rather be able to stay eligible for support, no questions asked. (I’m guessing the other RAM options that are truly compatible will eventually show up on the list, so maybe I’m being overly cautious.)
I may still switch out the SSD on the pre-built. I’ve read that the SK Hynix Gold P31 is good for minimizing power usage.
I am definitely going to buy a second power cord to use as the one I carry with me. I saw some recommendations in other posts.