Framework 16 (2025) Review: Impressive Modularity, Underwhelming Value

Summary

If you’re shopping for raw performance, the Framework 16 is not competitive. It costs more than similarly sized laptops that deliver far higher CPU and GPU power, better displays, and more premium build quality. It’s also physically larger and heavier than most laptops with comparable components.

However, if modularity, repairability, and long-term part availability are your priorities, the Framework 16 stands in a category of its own. The design is remarkably open, well-documented, and customizable, with industry-leading port flexibility and excellent Linux support. One of our staff members even owns the original Framework 16 for these reasons.

Still, for many users, the Framework 13 offers clearer value because they compete in a market where most laptops have soldered components. At 16 inches with dedicated graphics, competitors already offer replaceable RAM, SSDs, Wi-Fi cards, and batteries, which covers the needs of most users.

The Pros

Unmatched Upgradeability

Every major component is accessible, replaceable, or swappable. Documentation is excellent, the community is active, and Framework continues to ship new parts long after launch.

Excellent Port Flexibility

Framework’s Expansion Bay system remains best-in-class. You can configure HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, SD card readers, USB-A, USB-C, and more—four of which support up to 240W USB-C charging. No other laptop we’ve tested supports power delivery this high.

Quiet Operation Under Load

Fan noise stays well below typical gaming laptop levels. The chassis does get warm during heavy use, but overall comfort is better than expected—especially considering its modular design.

Solid Build Quality

Despite its swappable components, the chassis feels sturdier than expected, with minimal keyboard flex, a bright display, and a comfortable RGB keyboard.

Linux Support

Framework continues to lead the industry here. Fedora worked nearly perfectly out of the box, aside from tinny speakers. As far as gaming on Linux goes, we've heard other distros like Ubuntu and Arch are more effective for that use-case.

The Cons

Weak Performance for the Size and Price

Our unit (Ryzen 7 350 + RTX 5070) costs around $2,450 yet performs significantly behind competing 16-inch laptops—sometimes even behind cheaper, thinner ones.

• The CPU caps at ~45W. 54W with boost.
• The GPU is limited to 100W with boost, below the 5070’s potential 125W.
• The GPU module tops out at the 5070, with only 8GB VRAM. This limits performance in modern titles like Monster Hunter Wilds.
  Even in gaming, where its sustained power helps, the Framework 16 still lags behind similarly priced alternatives.

Display Limitations

The 2560×1600 panel is good, but not exceptional. Coders may find it less crisp than higher-resolution displays on the Yoga Pro 9i or MacBook Pro. Our unit also required calibration due to a strong green tint.

High Pricing for Components

The GPU module alone costs $700 and doesn’t deliver performance competitive with similarly priced laptops. Given historical upgrade pricing, many users would be better off selling their old Framework and buying a new one—undermining the purpose of modularity.

Battery Life

Around eight hours of office use is decent for a GPU-equipped laptop, but underwhelming given its modest performance.

Aesthetic & Build Gaps

The modular pieces don’t always align perfectly, and some components wiggle slightly. The overall look leans utilitarian and lacks the cohesiveness of premium competitors like the Zephyrus G16 or Legion 7i.

Large, Heavy, and Ergonomically Challenging

With the GPU module attached, it’s deeper than most 16-inch laptops. Its thickness makes wrist angles awkward during long typing sessions.

Upgradeability Isn’t For Everyone

While modular, assembly still requires care. Even our team had to reseat the GPU after poor initial test results—something new users may struggle with.

Who Is This For?

If you value upgradability above all else, this is the only laptop like it. Linux support, repairable parts, and Framework’s ecosystem are all fantastic. Enthusiasts will appreciate what they are doing here.

But for most people wanting a performant 16-inch laptop, options like the Legion Pro series, Omen 16, or Zephyrus G16 offer better performance, more premium builds, or significantly stronger value.

The Framework 16 is a fascinating device with admirable goals, but it asks buyers to accept real-world tradeoffs in performance, price, and design.