Framework Laptop 16 review: The perfect laptop for PC hardware nerds

Price When Reviewed

$2,400

Best Prices Today: Framework Laptop 16 (2024)

The Framework Laptop 16 is a laptop computer with a mission. It desires to show a big, highly effective laptop computer can ship nice efficiency alongside a repairability that places different laptops to disgrace. The Laptop 16 delivers on that promise in case you’re keen to pay a premium. Let’s dive proper in.

Looking for extra choices? Check out PCWorld’s roundup of the best laptops.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Specs and options

The Framework Laptop 16 I acquired for overview was the DIY Edition, which meant some meeting was required. The reminiscence, storage, ports, and growth bay are configurable. Shoppers should buy their very own reminiscence and storage individually, however the ports (which Framework calls Expansion Cards) and the Expansion Bay should be bought from Framework since they’re designed for its laptops.

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
• Memory: 32GB LPDDR5 
• Graphics/GPU: AMD Radeon RX 7700S (in Expansion Bay)
• Display: 2560×1600 165Hz IPS
• Storage: 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe stable state drive
• Webcam: 1080p 60fps
• Connectivity: Configurable, six growth playing cards whole
• Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, Configurable
• Biometrics: Fingerprint reader
• Battery capability: 85 watt-hours
• Dimensions: 14.04 x 11.42 x 0.82 inches
• Weight: 5.29 kilos
• MSRP: Starts at $1,399, roughly $2,400 as-tested

The DIY Edition presents a protracted listing of choices for configuring the laptop computer. I configured it with the Radeon RX 7700S GPU (Radeon 780M built-in graphics can be found) and put in a complete of six ports: two USB-C, two USB-A, DisplayPort-out and 3.5mm combo audio. Framework additionally included Expansion Cards for different ports together with HDMI and Ethernet, however I made a decision to not use them.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Design and construct high quality

Unboxing the Framework Laptop 16 DIY Edition is a far totally different expertise than a common laptop computer. The DIY Edition is just not totally assembled however as a substitute a equipment with no less than a lot of the items you’ll must construct it (you should purchase reminiscence and storage from Framework or buy it individually). Instructions for meeting can be found on-line and a screwdriver, which is important to entry some inside parts, is included.

Customization, upgradability, and repairability are key factors for Framework, and the Laptop 16’s design embraces these concepts. Many configurable parts (together with the keyboard, numpad, macropad, LED matrix lights, and ports) will be swapped with out instruments and even whereas the laptop computer is turned on. Only the reminiscence, storage, and Expansion Bay require use of the screwdriver and must be serviced with the laptop computer off. The DIY Edition additionally requires an working system, which isn’t offered (I used Windows 11).

I had the Framework Laptop 16 DIY Edition up and working in lower than two hours. Framework’s directions have been each detailed and clear, which ought to make setup easy even in case you haven’t tinkered with PC {hardware} earlier than. With that stated, although, engaged on costly {hardware} can show intimidating. Framework additionally sells pre-assembled laptops for these leery about rolling their very own.

Once assembled, the Framework Laptop 16 is a sexy, if not particularly slim, machine. It opts for a basic look with comparatively thick bezels and a silver metallic exterior, however good materials high quality elevates the design and retains panel flex to a minimal. The laptop computer’s 5.29 kilos of heft is in the direction of the excessive finish for a contemporary 16-inch laptop computer, and the identical will be stated of its depth and width, so portability isn’t a power.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Keyboard, trackpad

IDG / Matthew Smith

The Framework Laptop 16’s focus of customization actually comes throughout with the keyboard. Framework presents a number of keyboards for varied languages and preferences (I acquired the US English, RGB-backlit keyboard). Owners can select so as to add a numpad or macropad, or neither, as desired. It’s additionally easy to take away or add the numpad because it’s wanted, so those that solely generally want a numpad can take away it when it’s undesirable.

I arrange the Framework Laptop 16 with out a numpad and as a substitute centered the keyboard with a clean spacer on all sides. The spacers can be found in a wide range of colours to boost the laptop computer’s look. Framework additionally presents an LED Matrix spacer that may be configured to show notifications or textual content.

Key really feel is simply okay, nonetheless. The keyboard has cheap key journey and a agency bottoming motion, however key actuation lacks tactile really feel and keyboard flex is important in the course of the keyboard. Don’t get me improper: once I say it’s okay, I imply it’s okay. I typed a number of hundreds phrases with no subject. Still, it would assist if Framework might discover a method to reinforce the middle of the keyboard. I’d additionally like to see an non-compulsory keyboard with mechanical switches.

The touchpad sadly lacks the keyboard’s customization. It measures a tad lower than 5 inches broad and about three inches deep, which is on the small aspect for a contemporary 16-inch laptop computer. It’s a responsive, satisfying touchpad, however the lack of bodily area could make it really feel a bit cramped when performing multi-touch gestures. 

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Display, audio

IDG / Matthew Smith

Every Framework Laptop 16 has the identical 16-inch, 2560×1600, 165Hz show with an IPS panel. This is one facet of the laptop computer that’s not customizable, although it’s designed to get replaced ought to it break (elements might be obtainable by Framework). 

I’ll begin with the plain criticism: this can be a primary show for an costly laptop computer offered in 2024. It doesn’t have 4K decision, an OLED panel, or a dynamic Mini-LED backlight. Image high quality is sweet, however lacks the depth and immersion present in OLED and Mini-LED opponents. TV reveals, films, and video games look much less vibrant than on price-competitive laptops like the Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED.

But it’s not all dangerous information.

Sticking to an IPS show offers a bonus in readability and brightness. The Laptop 16’s show panel has a matte coat that reduces glare and its decision, although not groundbreaking, stays excessive sufficient to ship glorious sharpness at a typical viewing distance. It’s an incredible show for viewing and modifying paperwork, spreadsheets, and PDFs.

Motion readability is sweet too due to the show’s 165Hz refresh price. Higher recent charges can be found (just a few laptops attain as much as 480Hz), however 165Hz is an effective match for the {hardware}. Compared to a 60Hz refresh price, it delivers a lift in readability each in video games and on the desktop.

IDG / Matthew Smith

Audio high quality is robust. The Framework 16 has upwards-firing audio system, which is a plus, because it means the audio is rarely muffled or distorted by the floor the laptop computer is positioned on. Maximum quantity is simply mediocre, however the presentation is nice. Bass and treble co-exists with out one demolishing the opposite. The result’s crisp audio that’s nice for casually listening to Spotify and works effectively sufficient for many Netflix reveals.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Webcam, microphone, biometrics

The Framework Laptop 16 has a 1080p, 60fps webcam with a twin microphone array. Video high quality is sweet with a pointy presentation and modest noise (for a laptop computer webcam), though colours are subdued. The microphones, in the meantime, picked up clear audio with good quantity. It’s a stable mixture for Zoom, Google Hangouts, and different video conferencing software program. 

Privacy-conscious customers might be joyful to listen to the laptop computer has a deactivation change for each the digital camera and the microphone. They are digital, nonetheless, so the digital camera and microphone stay bodily unobstructed. 

Biometric login is offered by a fingerprint reader within the laptop computer’s energy button. It works in addition to another I’ve tried. Fingerprint studying is often dependable however shortly fooled by grime or moisture. Framework presents Linux drivers for the fingerprint studying, so it would perform in that working system in addition to in Windows.

IDG / Matthew Smith

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Connectivity

The Framework Laptop 16’s connectivity is not like any laptop computer obtainable at this time (except for Framework’s different laptops, in fact). Its connectivity is just not mounted however configurable by Expansion Card slots. There’s three on all sides of the laptop computer for a complete of six.

These slots will be fitted with any port from the next listing: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm audio, Ethernet, or a MicroSD card reader. You can combine and match as you’d want, although Framework strongly recommends selecting no less than one USB-C port (since that’s how the laptop computer is charged).

Speaking of USB-C, the Framework Laptop 16 helps DisplayPort Alternate Mode and as much as 240 watts of energy supply over USB-C. That’s glorious, because it means the laptop computer will be totally powered by any USB-C adapter of adequate capability. The Graphics Module with AMD Radeon RX 7700S graphics provides a further USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode, nevertheless it doesn’t help USB-C charging. 

The Framework Laptop 16 ships with an AMD-provided Wi-Fi 6E card and Bluetooth 5.2. The Wi-Fi adapter, like a lot of the laptop computer, will be accessed and changed if wanted. I doubt most customers will see a lot motive, nonetheless, as AMD’s Wi-Fi adapter was dependable in my time with the laptop computer.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Performance

The Framework Laptop 16’s internals are intriguing, and never simply because they’re really easy to restore or change. The mannequin I examined has an AMD Ryzen 7 7940HS processor which, if the non-compulsory graphics Expansion Bay is bought, is paired with AMD Radeon RX 7700S graphics (if not, the built-in Radeon RX 780M is used). It’s essential to notice the Ryzen 7 7940HS is an improve: the entry-level mannequin has AMD’s Ryzen 7 7840HS.

Laptops that go AMD for each the CPU and GPU stay uncommon in 2024. Let’s see the way it stacks up.

IDG / Matthew Smith

PCMark 10 places the Framework Laptop 16 off to a stellar begin with a hanging rating of 8,328. That’s by far the very best of the laptops I selected for comparability. It’s even aggressive with some laptops in the next value bracket just like the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18.

The Framework Laptop 16’s efficiency is sweet due to the well-rounded configuration I acquired to check. PCMark 10 assessments each CPU and GPU. It additionally appears to desire a considerable amount of reminiscence, and the Laptop 16 I examined had 32GB geared up.

IDG / Matthew Smith

Cinebench R20, a closely multi-threaded CPU benchmark with a brief length, is much less sort to the Framework Laptop 16. The Ryzen 9 7940HS falls again from the top of the pack. However, it’s aggressive with some Intel Core i7 laptops with extra stringent energy budgets such because the MSI Prestige 16 Studio.

IDG / Matthew Smith

It’s an analogous story in Handbrake, a long-duration CPU benchmark. Here, the Ryzen 9 7940HS as soon as once more turns in a wholesome however common consequence. It runs forward of the MSI Prestige 16 Studio however falls behind the Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED. 

Now it’s time to present the GPU some train. AMD’s Radeon 7700S is a mid-tier GPU with 8GB of graphics reminiscence that’s meant to compete with Nvidia’s RTX 4060—and that’s precisely the place it lands.

IDG / Matthew Smith

3DMark Time Spy reported a rating of 8,513. That places the Framework Laptop 16 behind some RTX 4060 laptops just like the Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED, however forward of others just like the MSI Prestige 16 Studio. 

IDG / Matthew Smith

Shadow of the Tomb Raider, a demanding recreation from the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One console technology, reveals what the RX 7700S can do. It achieved a mean of 120 frames per second at 1080p decision with element set to Highest. That’s a particularly playable consequence, in fact, and as soon as once more places the Framework Laptop 16 in league with laptops which have Nvidia RTX 4060 graphics.

IDG / Matthew Smith

Metro Exodus is a extra demanding benchmark, no less than when examined at Extreme settings, however even it proves playable with a mean of 39 frames per second. That’s fairly good for a laptop computer that doesn’t explicitly promise nice recreation efficiency and it places the Framework Laptop 16 only a smidge behind the Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED.

The Framework Laptop 16’s total efficiency is what I’d count on from a 16-inch laptop computer in its value bracket and it doesn’t over or under-perform in any single take a look at. Keep in thoughts, nonetheless, that just about all laptops within the Laptop 16’s value and efficiency bracket are fast and can ship a wholesome enhance over any comparable laptop computer that’s now greater than a number of years previous. The Laptop 16’s can deal with all kinds of content material creation and leisure duties. 

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Battery life

The Framework 16 laptop computer has a 85 watt-hour battery which, like a lot of the laptop computer, is straightforward to entry and change (however can’t be custom-made). It’s not the most important battery potential in a 16-inch laptop computer, however that doesn’t maintain battery life again.

IDG / Matthew Smith

I noticed 9 hours and 36 minutes of battery life in our normal battery take a look at, which loops a 4K file of the quick movie Tears of Steel with the show calibrated to roughly 200 nits. 

That’s not a recording-breaking consequence, nevertheless it’s nice for a Windows laptop computer with discrete graphics. Quite a lot of credit score little doubt goes to AMD’s switchable graphics, which reverts to the extra power-efficient built-in Radeon 780M APU when the discrete GPU is just not required.

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Pre-production points

I encountered two minor, however probably annoying points with the pre-production laptop computer I acquired to check. The laptop computer produced odd noises, particularly when the GPU was engaged. A Framework consultant informed me it’s conscious of two noise points: one as a consequence of an “incorrect capacitor value,” the opposite “related to the inductors.” 

A Framework consultant informed me each points “have been corrected on customer units.” 

Framework Laptop 16 (2024): Conclusion

The Framework Laptop 16 is the very best proof but that trendy laptops can ship customization, repairability, and efficiency in a single package deal. It presents stable benchmark outcomes, good battery life, and sturdy design. That’s to not say it’s excellent: the keyboard is simply okay, the touchpad could possibly be bigger, and the show’s picture high quality is mediocre. But the laptop computer balances these disadvantages with different perks like sturdy audio efficiency and configurable connectivity that features USB-C with as much as 240 watts of energy supply, 

There’s only one wrinkle, and that’s the value. Though it begins at $1,400, my as-tested configuration rang up nearer to $2,400 (or round $2,600 if you buy the pre-built mannequin). That’s not an unreasonable value for a laptop computer with the Framework Laptop 16’s efficiency, nevertheless it’s nearer to the Razer Blade 16 than the Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED. Framework received’t make sense in case you don’t need to improve or restore your laptop computer. But in case you (like me) don’t thoughts tinkering, it’s effectively well worth the value.