I’m considering a Framework 13 for my second, travel laptop (it’ll be my first non-Thinkpad laptop since the 1990s) but still have some nagging doubts and am curious if others have grappled with any of them. I generally keep laptops for 2-3 years before selling my old one and buying a new one so none of my laptops have ever ended up in landfill by my hand, at least.
First doubt is about the whole Framework business model thing, not least because the company is private and thus a bit of a mystery in terms of financing, burn rate, longevity etc. Basically, if I buy a Framework laptop now, will the company still be around in 2-3 years when I’d consider a CPU update and still supporting current models?
Second is whether I want to buy a laptop that’s such a basic clamshell design when all other manufacturers are constantly bringing some interesting new design options to the table. Sure, it’s fine now, but in 2-3 years will I want a 2-in-1 or a smaller footprint or different screen ratio etc.? Looking back at my Thinkpad purchases, I did stick with 14" T-series for quite a while (T20 onwards), but those evolved in terms of size/shape, and since I shook my T-series addiction I’ve tried all sorts of different sizes and shapes (currently typing this on a P1 Gen 4).
And finally there’s the price, which TBH is on the high side even with me bringing my own RAM, using an older Gen3 SSD I have, using a 60W charger I already have etc. Even the new Main Boards/CPUs are pretty darn expensive if you want anything higher end. This is especially pertinent with BF coming up when all the major manufacturers will no doubt be offering big discounts on current models (some already are).
It seems to be the USP of Framework is the lower e-waste thing because otherwise it’s just another mid-range 13" laptop in a crowded field. TBH I’d be more impressed if Framework offered to take back replaced components for recycling, otherwise upgrading stuff just generates its own potential e-waste, albeit much less than binning a whole laptop.
Ultimately I’ll probably buy a Framework 13 – curiosity about new toys and memories of rummaging around in the internals of Thinkpads of Yore are just too strong to overcome! But I’m still curious about other folks’ motivations.
These are all risks we take. If you can’t afford to take them, don’t. If you don’t personally see it as worth it, don’t. It’s a very personal decision and is very much based on your feelings and wallet.
I’m a computer geek and have always repaired my own laptops and drag out their lifespan as far as possible. I’ve replaced just about everything on regular laptops and know how much it sucks to find parts and do the repairs.
Within a couple months I had to replace my main board under warranty and was able to replace it in under 10 minutes. That felt so damned good! :) Very happy with my purchase.