Howdy, I reserved a gen 2 framework 16 laptop and am currently awaiting reviews for it. I was curious how easy or hard to put together are the DIY kits for the framework 16? My current resume for putting together computers is basically switching out the hard drive on a Steam Deck and upgrading the ram and ssd on a asus gaming laptop. Do they provide step by step instructions that are easy to follow? The task seems a little daunting to me, but being in control over every piece of the laptop seems pretty cool as well.
The DIY edition is pretty much just putting in the RAM and storage yourself (and some minor things, like snapping in the bezel, which attaches just via magnets).
So if you can upgrade the SSD on a gaming laptop, you are more than good 
And yes, there is detailed step-by-step instructions to help you along the way as well. You can take a look at all the FW16 guides here: Framework Laptop 16 - Framework Guides
And, specifically, the guide you’d follow would be: Framework Laptop 16 DIY Edition Quick Start Guide - Framework Guides which shows you exactly which parts you need to install.
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If you didn’t those without trouble, then the Frameworks should present no problem.
I would advise always treating the mid-plate cable and connector with care, though. Ram and ssd slots are pretty durable and are able to take frequent use that’s not always careful. I would not consider the type of cable or type of connector used for the mid-plate cable to be as durable to roughness. The FFC, Flat Flexible Cable, can be torn if pulled roughly. If the cable has been creased sharply, then bent back and forth many times, such as may happen with repeated removing of the midplate, wire traces can break. The connector also I don’t believe can take the same level of rough handling as ram and ssd slots.
But really, everything inside a device should be treated carefully. They are not on the same level as external connectors such as USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc, do not treat them the same. If you feel significant resistance, stop. Due mostly to space limitations I think, internal connectors and cables just aren’t made as durable.
But I think most people treat them less than careful, and many seem to do ok despite that. You can never discount blind luck.
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Also there are comments left by others you have done it.. such as :
I can’t remember which of the steps it was that i was most nervous about but then I noticed there were comments and one of them answered what I was wondering
but yeah since the one of the ideas behind this laptop is its repair ability… putting it together your self makes you a little more comfortable if you have to o something on it.. like finding what on earth is making a rattling sounds in gpu fan
grass seed found it way in there somehow)so yeah their guides are in my oppinion well made and easy to follow.. but don’t rush it
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