Framework's Franken‑Laptop Returns with Major Chip Upgrade Amid Ongoing Concerns
Framework has unveiled the latest iteration of its modular laptop, dubbed the Laptop 16, featuring a high‑performance RTX 5070 graphics processor and other hardware upgrades. The company markets the device as a more powerful, repairable alternative to mainstream ultrabooks, aiming to attract users who value both performance and sustainability.
The new model upgrades the central processing unit to a latest‑generation 13‑core processor and expands memory options up to 64 GB, while the inclusion of the RTX 5070 brings desktop‑class gaming and AI capabilities to a portable form factor. Battery capacity has also been increased to 96 Wh, and the chassis retains the company’s signature removable‑panel design that allows owners to swap components such as the keyboard, storage, and ports without voiding the warranty.
Despite the hardware improvements, reviewers have noted that several long‑standing issues persist. Thermal management remains a challenge, with the laptop reportedly running hotter under sustained load than comparable devices. The added GPU also contributes to a noticeable increase in weight and thickness, potentially undermining the sleek profile that some users expect from a 16‑inch notebook. Additionally, the price point, which now exceeds $2,500 for the base configuration, places the device in a competitive segment dominated by established brands.
Industry analysts suggest that Framework’s approach could influence the broader market by demonstrating that modularity and high performance are not mutually exclusive, but they caution that the company must address durability and cost concerns to achieve wider adoption. The company’s spokesperson indicated that ongoing firmware updates and future accessory releases are intended to refine the user experience. As the laptop becomes available later this quarter, consumer response will likely determine whether the balance of upgradeability and performance can outweigh the lingering drawbacks highlighted by early reviewers.
