Wondering if Laptop 16 is good for my use case

Framework Laptop 16
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Hey there,

I recently sold my MSI Crosshair 17 as I noticed I wasn’t using it for gaming, but for development and workstation-like workloads. It had its own issues, mainly no Linux support at all and I frequently encountered all sorts of problems due to MSI’s way of doing things.

I do game development and 3D modeling. Occassionally, I play games like RDR2 or Death Stranding - both have realistic graphics and demand resources. I don’t need the most powerful machine in the world, however - plus I have another higher-end, desktop computer.

My budget is 2100 at most. I frequently change computers due to my frequent changes of demands, so the Framework sounds like an ideal fit for me - buy once, and upgrade when needed. I’m eyeing the Laptop 16 because it’s the only one to allow graphics modules, even if there’s only one for the Radeon RX 7700S. If the Laptop 13 ever allowed that, it would be even better.

So I have some questions that I’d really appreciate be answered.

  • Will the Laptop 13 have graphics modules in the future?
  • Is the Laptop 16 good for me?
  • What are some other modules in development for the Laptop 16?

Thank you

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  • I doubt that the FW13 will ever have an internal discrete graphics module. I don’t think there’s any place in the design for it. (EDIT: there’s always external discrete graphics though.)
  • The FW16 should be good for what you want, but I’m not clear on what graphics capabilities you’re asking for. Even with the discrete graphics module, it may not be sufficient for your needs. It can also be pricey, not sure what US$2,100 would get you, particularly with the on-again, off-again tariffs.
  • Nobody knows. :slight_smile: Framework is pretty close-mouthed about that sort of thing, which makes sense considering how all the other laptop manufacturers suddenly started having (more-)repairable laptops with captured screws as soon as Framework introduced them. They’re obviously paying attention to Framework and what it does, and would steal appropriate any ideas they could, as soon as they heard about them.
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I have a FW16, and traditional dev work, it would be good enough. Linux & games with the 7700s will be ok… But for that money I think you can get a much better system for your needs. If FW comes out with a better graphics card for the FW16, then all bets are off! Maybe the FW13 with the AI300 series would be good and in your budget. I’ve seen that it is on par with some of the laptops with dedicated GPUs.

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Sure, I use my FW16 for development work all the time. I even play games on it… but I’m one of those people who don’t play any game 'til it’s been out for at least five years, more likely ten. :laughing: That’s why I can’t comment on how it would work with modern games. The ones I play don’t even need the discrete graphics module.

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