Updated review of the „Framework Laptop 16” platform ahead of early 2026: what has really changed in „Gen 2”, what makes the GPU module special, and where the compromises lie.
The idea of „laptop as a desktop” that is (finally) starting to work in practice
The „Framework Laptop 16” has been designed from the ground up as an antidote to disposable electronics: a computer that can not only be repaired but also consistently upgraded by replacing key components. The difference from most gaming laptops is significant: here, not only RAM or SSD are replaceable, but also the mainboard and a separate, removable graphics module via the „Expansion Bay”.
This direction aligns well with broader trends in Europe and Lithuania – increasing attention is being paid to repairability, longer use of items, and consumer rights to make repairs simpler and more accessible.
The 2025 update that resembles an evolution of the platform rather than a „completely new model”
The concept of „generation” in „Framework” is often understood differently than by traditional manufacturers: instead of a new chassis every year, the focus is on new modules and kits that previous version owners can often purchase as well. The 2025 update for the „Laptop 16” brought new processors, a new (and for many, the most important) graphics module, faster connectivity, more powerful power supply, and structural improvements.
In short, „Gen 2” here represents the „Framework 16” as an upgradable ecosystem: you can buy the entire computer, and later only replace what has actually aged (CPU board, GPU module, Wi-Fi card, display, or input modules).
Ryzen AI 300 series: more efficiency, NPU, and a clearer long-term direction
The 2025 „Framework Laptop 16” comes equipped with AMD „Ryzen AI 300” series options, including the „Ryzen AI 7 350” (8 cores / 16 threads) and „Ryzen AI 9 HX 370” (12 cores / 24 threads). The manufacturer’s specifications indicate up to 45 W sustained power and up to 54 W in boost mode, with the NPU part reaching up to 50 TOPS.
Practically, this means more than just an „AI” sticker. This generation is focused on a better performance/noise balance and a more modern platform (including a Wi-Fi 7 module), and the ability to change the board remains one of the strongest arguments for „Framework” – theoretically, after a couple of years, you can upgrade the CPU without buying a new chassis.
RTX 5070 module in the „Expansion Bay”: a „holy grail” moment, but with conditions
The biggest highlight of the 2025 update is the „NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU” graphics module, which functions as a separate, user-replaceable cartridge. Specifications mention up to 100 W TGP when connected to power (up to 50 W from the battery), 8 GB GDDR7, 4608 CUDA cores, DLSS 4, and other modern „NVIDIA” features.
Reviewers emphasize that the very fact of a real GPU upgrade in a laptop is what sets the „Laptop 16” apart in the market. They also note significant performance improvements compared to the previous „Radeon RX 7700S” module (with reported performance jumps in games of several dozen percent), although exact figures depend on the game and settings.
If „NVIDIA” is not appealing, „Framework” also offers an updated „Radeon RX 7700S (2nd Gen)” module with improved thermals and acoustics – important for those who value AMD’s open „Linux” driver advantages.
240 W USB-C and recycled thermal materials – to ensure power isn’t „eaten” from the battery
One of „Framework’s” most aggressive solutions is the switch to a powerful 240 W USB-C power supply. The manufacturer talks about a compact 240 W GaN adapter with USB-PD 3.1 support, and specifications show higher voltage modes (up to 48 V @ 5 A). The idea is simple: when simultaneously loading the CPU and GPU, the system should not rely on battery „doping” – full load should be maintained solely from the power supply.
On the cooling side, „Framework” mentions switching to „Honeywell” phase change thermal material (PTM7958) and fan optimization for lower noise while maintaining up to 100 W GPU modes. This is detailed in the specifications for both the mainboard and the graphics module.
165 Hz, VRR, and a „Display Kit” nuance worth knowing before purchasing
According to the manufacturer’s specs, the „Framework 16” maintains a focus on „gaming + creativity”: a 16-inch 16:10 matte display with a resolution of 2560×1600, 165 Hz refresh rate, VRR/FreeSync, 100% DCI-P3, and up to 500 nits brightness.
However, there is an important detail: „G-SYNC” support is indicated as dependent on the RTX 5070 and the „Display Kit (2nd gen)”. In other words, for some previous owners, just the GPU module may not be enough for full functionality – they may also need to change the display/kit itself. Reviews mention this as one of the most significant intersections of „Framework’s” philosophy and reality.
Where the „wow” is, and where the price and weight come for freedom
The modularity of the „Framework 16” has several layers:
- Mainboard Replacement: The CPU platform is a separate module, so theoretically, you can upgrade to a new generation without changing the entire computer.
- Expansion Bay Interface: This is where the GPU module fits, and the interface is described as PCIe x8, suitable for both high-speed and high-power scenarios.
- Connections via „Expansion Cards”: six user-selectable slots can accommodate USB-C/USB-A/HDMI/DP/SD and other modules, with some slots supporting up to 240 W charging and modern DP modes.
- DIY Philosophy: „Framework” clearly supports „bring your own” memory and storage (up to 96 GB DDR5-5600, two M.2 slots), allowing buyers to optimize price and choose what they like.
In Lithuanian technology media, the idea of modularity is often mentioned as an alternative to the era of „sealed” ultrabooks – especially regarding connection options and long-term value.
QMK, adjustable layout, and why some find it „not quite premium”
The uniqueness of the „Framework 16” is not just the GPU. The upper part with the keyboard/trackpad consists of interchangeable input modules: you can choose a number pad, macro pad, spacers, and keyboard position. The manufacturer’s specifications emphasize that the keyboards are „hot-swappable”, backlit, with 1.5 mm travel, work with QMK software, and support NKRO.
However, reviews often mention that this modular parts system comes at a price: one can feel unevenness, creaking, or a „Franken-laptop” impression, and the lid and some connection points do not always reflect classic „premium” integrity. In other words: freedom and repairability win here over a perfect monolith.
The „starting from” number looks nice, but modularity quickly adds a zero
The manufacturer indicates that the 2025 version starts at 1,499 USD, but the prebuilt base is mentioned in reviews as 1,799 USD (without discrete graphics). The interesting part begins when you add the RTX 5070 module, more RAM, additional connection modules, and other accessories – then the total can jump very quickly.
Another aspect: the „Framework” promise of „partial upgrades” can seem expensive in reality. For example, the RTX 5070 module is mentioned in reviews as costing around 699 USD, and CPU boards and other upgrades also carry significant costs – thus, upgrading an older model can sometimes approach the price of a „completely new computer”.
For that, you get something that almost no one else offers: the ability to solve the „aged GPU” problem without replacing the entire laptop. If this is important to you, the „Framework 16” practically has no direct analogs.
For those who buy not a „model”, but a long-lasting platform
- Developers and power users: if you want a 16″ 165 Hz display, plenty of connections, two M.2 slots, and the ability to upgrade RAM to 96 GB, while also having a clear upgrade path.
- Gamers tired of „locked” configurations: the RTX 5070 module is the main argument, even if the computer itself still has some „not fully polished” product traits.
- Right to repair advocates: if you care about repairability, parts, ecosystem, and reducing electronic waste.
If your priority is maximum „premium” integrity, quiet operation under any conditions, and „everything perfect out of the box”, reviews warn: the „Framework 16” still has areas where the compromises of modularity are felt.
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