Framework Laptop Preorder: Repairable & Customizable

The Growing Demand for Repairable Electronics

The difficulty of repairing consumer electronics has become a significant concern for consumers in recent years. As devices become increasingly compact, and manufacturers prioritize proprietary systems, self-repair is often rendered impractical for the average user.

This presents several challenges, notably the inability to upgrade components instead of replacing the entire device. Given the increasing awareness of environmental impact, planned obsolescence is a critical issue for many individuals.

Framework Laptop: A New Approach

Framework is among a growing number of companies striving to address these concerns. Similar initiatives include products like the Fairphone in the mobile sector. While currently a niche market, its potential for expansion is considerable.

The Framework Laptop, first announced in January, is now available for preorder. This 13.5-inch notebook has a starting price of $999 and is scheduled to begin shipping in late July.

Initially, the company aimed for a spring release, but ongoing global chip shortages have caused a delay. Despite this, the system’s design is surprisingly appealing, particularly considering its focus on repairability and upgradability.

Configuration Options and Pricing

Three primary configurations are offered: Base, Performance, and Professional. These range in price from $999 to $1,999.

Upgrades include transitioning from an Intel Core i5 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage to a Core i7 processor paired with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB storage drive. The operating system is also upgraded from Windows Home to Windows Pro in the highest-tier configuration.

For users who prefer to customize their build, a barebones shell is available for $749, allowing them to install their own internal components.