Upgradable laptop vendor Framework Computer is releasing a second-generation model of its 16-inch laptop, which now supports an Nvidia GPU.
More than two years after introducing its first stab at a 16-inch notebook, the San Francisco company debuted the new Framework 16. At launch, the product only had an AMD Radeon RX 7700S GPU as an attachable module. But it now supports Nvidia graphics via a laptop-focused GeForce RTX 5070 GPU.
The result is a custom graphics module that can slot in the back of the Framework 16, similar to the first-gen model. This time, the company also upgraded the Nvidia module’s USB-C port to funnel power to the laptop, rather than merely act as a DisplayPort for a third-party monitor.
The GPU module (Credit: Framework)
On the downside, the RTX 5070 graphics module is expensive at $700. However, owners of the original Framework 16 can also use the new module, which is up for preorder.
But what about the RTX 5080 or 5090? In a video, Framework CEO Nirav Patel said fitting on a more powerful Nvidia GPU currently isn’t possible without significantly increasing the graphics module’s size and creating a bulky attachment to the laptop’s rear.
(Credit: Framework)
Buyers can also configure the Framework 16 with a second-generation Radeon RX 7700S GPU, which features an “updated thermal system.” But it’s also pricey at $400 for the module. In addition, a customer can drop the GPU bay altogether, reducing the laptop’s weight, and swap it for an “expansion bay shell,” which can add other modules, such as extra storage.
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The other major enhancement is an improved mainboard, which can now come with the newest AMD laptop CPUs, including the Ryzen AI 7 350 or the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. Original Framework 16 owners can also buy and swap in the new mainboards, too.
(Credit: Framework)
In a video, Framework’s CEO added that the second-generation 16-inch model includes new fans to reduce noise, citing user feedback on the first-generation model. The second-generation version can also support up to four simultaneous display outputs, up from three. Other upgrades include a Wi-Fi 7 module, a second-generation web camera, and a more rigid aluminum laptop top cover.
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Meanwhile, the display remains the same, offering a 2,560-by-1,600 resolution. But the company has certified it as an Nvidia G-Sync panel. “To support all of this combined GPU, CPU, and system performance, we’re excited to announce our new default power adapter for Framework Laptop 16: an ultra-high-power-density compact 240W USB-C adapter supporting the USB-PD 3.1 spec,” the company added.
The laptop’s original 180-watt adapter also works for the RTX 5070 GPU module, but users can expect some battery drain even when connected to an electrical outlet if they’re running a graphically intense game.
Framework is already taking preorders for the 16-inch laptop, starting at $1,499 for the do-it-yourself edition, which arrives as a barebones laptop without the GPU module or memory. The pre-built model starts at $1,799, but again, it doesn’t come with a dedicated GPU. The product is slated to start shipping in November if you preorder now.
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About Michael Kan
Senior Reporter
