It became known about the Framework Laptop 16 modular laptop in March 2023 – the developers reported that such a device is being developed and will soon go on sale. Now the project team has finally presented the device’s specifications and detailed which modules will be available to users. It also became known that the device will go on sale at the end of 2023, so we don’t have long to wait. Well, more details about the possibilities of the new product are below.


Overall, it can be considered one of the best options among modular laptops. Most of these devices look like a DIY project created in your spare time. And here we have a well-thought-out design, ergonomics, and that’s all. And of course, the development team has taken care of quite a large number of different modules.

The new device received a 16-inch screen, plus a metal case and 6 connectors for installing modules, including USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet. It is possible to add modules with SSD, and without the need to open the cover and install all this inside. The advantage of the company’s modules is that they are compatible with other models – we are talking about laptops with a screen diagonal of 13.5 inches.

Unfortunately, there is no word on the price yet, but it is unlikely that this laptop will cost me $1000. Despite other advantages, the price of merit can hardly be added. On the other hand, there is no need to buy a new laptop every 3-4 years, so the cost can be considered justified (or not?).

The developers introduced a new module – audio, a 3.5 mm connector that can be added to any of the above ports. It is possible to install several such modules at once, of course, if you need to get several 3.5-connectors.

The updated Expansion Bay allows you to install a module with discrete graphics – also without the need to disassemble the device, which in general is also easy to do. Admittedly, this is an optional module, but if eGPU functionality is desired, it can be easily added. It’s cool that outdated graphics can be replaced with more modern ones without having to buy a new device or motherboard. Of course, this module itself will not be cheap (the price is not known yet), but in any case it is cheaper than buying a new laptop. The size of the modules themselves also varies, so some of them, which are larger, can include more productive video systems.

A PCIe x8 interface has been added specifically for the GPU. It makes it possible to install not only an external discrete adapter, but also speed modules of other types. For example, the company developed a dual M.2 SSD interface. As a result, the laptop can be installed up to 16 TB in the form of expansion modules. And it will be possible to add AI accelerators, video capture devices, additional batteries or card readers. Most of the named modules are already ready or are being developed today.

According to company representatives, most input modules are based on the Raspberry Pi RP2040. The creators of the device provide the source code of the firmware for both the device and the modules. So, third-party developers can create their own add-ons and extensions without any restrictions.

As for the expansion modules available now, they are:

• USB-C port.
• Card reader.
• Slot with additional memory of 250 GB.
• Slot with additional memory of 1 TB.
• HDMI.
• Display Port.
• USB-A.
• Ethernet module.
• Dual USB-C.
• RFID reader.
• Raspberry Pi Pico.

The company regularly releases other updates, including both devices and modules for them. But, of course, I would like to see a 16-inch modular laptop on sale.