this post was submitted on 15 Nov 2023
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DIY Edition Build it yourself and bring your OS, including Linux. Starting at $1,399.00I hate to crap on a project like framework too much, but I fail to see the value it brings to the table compared to other options. 900$ for a Chromebook, 1.4k for a "DIY" laptop, 1.7k for the same laptop but assembled.
300-400$ used gaming laptops can be found on eBay, are repairable, and run Linux just as easily (minus maybe switching to official Nvidia drivers, but it's still only a couple commands a way). For 1k I'm sure you can get a variety of very premium laptops.
Edit: by repairable meant they're easy to repair if they break, not that they come pre-broken.
It pretty much comes down to three things, all driven by their system's modularity:
Whether this is worth it is up to you. Anecdotally, I have to replace my current laptop because the keyboard is dying. The rest is still fine, it's just the keyboard. In hindsight, paying more upfront and being able to just order a new keyboard for fifty bucks would've saved me some money.
Definitely look into keyboard replacement. I've replaced so many laptop keyboards and flipped the laptop or used it for myself from people too lazy to learn how to replace the keyboard. I have yet to run into a model that doesn't have one you can buy on eBay.
Fair enough, although I'm using the opportunity to upgrade and attempt to switch to Linux. And probably replace an older desktop computer with the old laptop (with a USB keyboard attached).
But yeah, under different circumstances it would make sense to buy a keyboard from eBay and attempt a repair.
I agree with your points, but aren't most laptop keyboards replacable?
Many are, true. There's a few other factors involved as well (I'm using the opportunity to upgrade, for instance). Most manufacturers won't commit to selling you first-party components right from their own store, though. That still remains a bonus.
The big thing you get with frameworks is super simple repairability. This means service manuals, parts availability, easy access to components like the battery, RAM, ssd, etc. Customizable ports are also a nice feature. You can even upgrade the motherboard later down the line instead of buying a whole new laptop.
I recently upgraded my 12th gen Intel with a new gorgeous matte screen and the process didn't take more than 5 minutes, despite one of my arms being in a cast!
Curious as I want to also make this change. We're you able to sell your old display? Or did you repurpose it.
Ehh I should do one of those two but it's just sitting in storage as a spare.
Good point but the upgradability is important to
I dunno, I would think these are two different markets.
Used gaming laptops on eBay that you need to repair a little bit is a different market than built to order Linux compatible laptops.
Maybe I didn't word that right. Meant that they run out of the box, but if they break they can be repaired fairly easily.