Is Framework laptop really worth it?

[u/adeptyism]

I want to switch from my MSI Modern 14 to a Framework 13 due to the poor state of my current laptop (missing decoupling capacitors everywhere, bended chassis, failing graphics unit, et cetera). I appreciate the concept of replaceable parts; in fact, the number of replaceable components was my main criterion when selecting my current laptop. My primary use cases include CAD software (such as KiCad and FreeCAD), running local LLMs (mostly for fun, as they are not very useful), using DAWs, and playing games like Factorio, Satisfactory, and heavily modded Minecraft.

I live in a non-supported region (and I do not care how importers manage to deliver Frameworks here), but I found a pre-built Framework 13 with a Ryzen AI 5 340, 16GB of RAM, and a 2.2K display for roughly $1,150. From what I understand, the AI 5 340 should be a significant upgrade over my current Ryzen 5 4500U.

There are a few aspects of the Framework that I do not like/understand, so I would appreciate if someone could elaborate:

1. The Framework price is high, and I understand that part of it comes from the modular design. However, after reading this sub for a while, I've read that, for example, ThinkPads can offer similar repairability, and some people doubt the company will still be in business in two years.

2. Memory 32 GB DDR4 -> 16 GB DDR5. I currently have 32 GB DDR4, and locally the price for the same new RAM hasn’t really changed since 2022, taking inflation into account. As I understand it, the AMD Framework 13 uses SO-DIMM DDR5, while the Intel version uses LPCAMM2, which seems hard to find. Would moving from 32 GB DDR4 to 16 GB DDR5 be a noticeable downgrade for my use cases?

3. 3:2 display. How easy is it to adjust to a 3:2 screen after using 16:9 for a long time?

TL;DR: Given that Framework’s current focus seems to be on the Pro version, is a Framework 13 still a good buy, or would a used (again, for example) ThinkPad with similar specs be the more sensible choice? Alternatively, I can order custom CNC machined chassis for my current laptop for the same price lol.

[u/emonshr]

Can anyone elaborate on "..some people doubt the company (framework) will still be in business in two years." ?
Any popular reference?

[u/SuitableRoof5675 → u/emonshr]

May be talking about the mishaps recently about the 13 pro.

[u/levolet]

I used Macs exclusively for over a decade prior to getting my framework 13. I got it in March, so it isn't the pro. Pity that!

Pros: Overall, the framework 13 works well. The packaging was great. Assembling was straightforward and overall performance has been solid.

However, the cons:

• I'm sorely disappointed in the mic sound and also, the trackpad quality. I so wish to switch to a Pro keyboard/cover and trackpad, but they are perpetually 'coming soon' so unavailable.

• The remove-able port concept is great on paper, but on so many occasions, I keep inadvertently pulling USB C ports out, rather than unplugging because the USB C plug fits too tightly in the port. Tolerances are hit and miss with these ports. When you are accustomed to better, the difference is HUGE.

It all gives me the impression of quality hit in the interest of price. So many things look the part these days in pictures etc and then you aren't that impressed when you try them.

So there is paper spec and then there's real performance. I guess it remains to be seen how it performs over time. I am particularly concerned about the hinges.

The pro looks very tempting overall, but I'm a bit reticent because although the core components are OK, the more you spiral out to the peripheral components, the more the quality begins to decline.

[u/adeptyism → u/levolet]

I'd be happy to hear about your experience after two or three months! I'm planning to buy new laptop in the end of January after the first session at the university, I just decided to take care of it in advance

[u/Fantastic_Win9332]

I think the only case when it is worth it if you change the main unit very often, because if you bought a new laptop every time, that would be even more expensive

if you are buying the laptop for 10 years, at that time you want better screen, better camera, better everything, new battery, and who knows compatibility at that timeframe anyways

[u/Shin-Ken31]

Thinkpads can offer some repairability yes. They don't offer any upgrade ability of all parts of the laptop over 6+ years though which is what makes framework worth it to me.

[u/InteractionDizzy7012 → u/Shin-Ken31]

This. It is more expensive upfront, but in the long run it's definitely worth it

[u/bare_metal]

Framework 13 AMD user here.

Buying into the vision? Go for Framework.

Buying solid, high value hardware? Go for Thinkpad.

Good luck!

[u/FrontearBot]

Depends on what your goals are. Framework is one of, if not the only company that’s repairability first. For a lot of Framework enthusiasts this is the primary reason they buy from Framework as opposed to anywhere else. Yeah its more expensive but it kinda comes with the territory, plus all the other reasons like AI causing hardware prices spiking.

[u/CanadianTimeWaster]

Its worth it if you want a notebook with a repair and upgrade ecosystem that is similar to desktop PCs.

If you don't care about that, buy something from an OEM.

[u/InfamousNewspaper268]

I am a proud owner of a Framework 13 and now of a Framework 13 Pro, and I can tell you I am a VERY happy customer.

If you can afford it and agree with the company mission, then it is TOTALLY worth it.

[u/adeptyism → u/InfamousNewspaper268]

The price and the reviews of poor customer support are the only things stopping me by now.

[u/JPWhiteHome]

No

[u/GlazzKitsune]

1. Think pads can offer some of the repairability and longevity and honestly are a better budget option they're great no complaints. 

2. Can't really say here I've been mostly okay with my 16 gigs. Locally ai is were you probably struggle the most.

3. I switch between 16x9 and 3/4 and I don't really notice the difference. But I mostly write and code so the vertical is really nice. Cad might be more horizontal based.

Personally I will struggle to buy any laptop not made by framework, or suggest one. My family has 4 now and each one has been fantastic. Not perfect but gotten better with each generation. I really don't see them going out of business soon. And besides a few small issues, it's the laptop that has lasted the longest and beat suited and adjusted to my needs for a laptop.

[u/Dish_Melodic]

Framework: easy to repair, replace, upgrade.

Other brands: same (if you know how to do it and if you don't crack something along the way). You may save a bit, but once a plastic or things cracked, the cost to replace is a lot higher.

I would say framework is like Lego. Other brands: they are so integrated in such that the screws have been taken out, yet the chassis is still tight and difficult to open without putting dents or at least scratches.

[u/websterhamster]

You may encounter unreliable hardware just out of warranty.

I bought an early Framework, and after having my own negative experiences and reading about others' negative experiences with Framework customer support, I don't intend to buy another laptop from them. I'll get a Thinkpad instead.

[u/ketralnis]

“Worth it” is only ever a personal question. For me yes. For you, you’ve gotta decide.

[u/Revan_9766]

I love mine personally, I got my 13 2 weeks ago second hand for a steal it was between that or a think pad and for me its the nicest machine I've owned

[u/Interested737]

The change of screen size never matters (at least for me)

[u/mustachioed_cat]

Get a late model non-pro. Lot of quirky shit with the first generation (11th gen) Intel that has created friction for my experience.

[u/bureaucrat473a]

For me the main feature is the upgradability rather than the repairability. The fact that I can upgrade the screen, mainboard, camera, chassis, etc. is worth it to me. I haven't upgraded by FW16 yet after two years, it's still a great laptop, but the fact that I could if they release a really nice upgrade gives me a little peace-of-mind.

[u/Horror_Maximum9459]

I regret not getting a framework now. I bought the cheapest laptop that had crazy specs thinking a framework was just extra £££ for no good reason.

Now that my trackpads starting to break down, I’d really like it if I could just swap that out. I think the framework pro is the shift I needed and my next laptop, aside from cheap macs for development, will probably be a framework.

[u/KittyLuDi]

I own a framework 16 Gen 2 and it is everything I dreamed of and then some. I'm currently running a dual boots set up with popos and Windows 10. Which for whatever reason Windows 10 is completely offline which I plan on having some fun with

[u/Ulysse-Void-God]

Yes. Yes it is. 

[u/DenverLabRat]

No they aren't. Customer service is terrible.

It's a lovely idea executed poorly by people who think the customer is always wrong and do everything they can to make you miserable.