Framework has seen a flurry of activity this year, with the release of several models including a new Framework Laptop 13 with Ryzen AI processors, a fresh Framework Laptop 12, and a desktop version. Recently, the company hinted at an upcoming announcement, and it has now revealed significant updates to its flagship Framework Laptop 16, designed to enhance its gaming and workstation capabilities.
This update includes the introduction of Ryzen AI processors and new integrated Radeon GPUs, alongside a graphics module equipped with Nvidia’s mobile GeForce RTX 5070. Notably, this module is backward-compatible with the original Laptop 16, catering to users looking to upgrade.
Preorders for the revamped Laptop 16 commence today, with prices starting at $1,499 for a DIY edition that excludes RAM, storage, an operating system, and Expansion Cards. This marks a $100 increase compared to the initial version of the Laptop 16. The first units are expected to ship in November.
While Framework has previously rolled out various updates for the Laptop 13, the latest enhancements mark the first major hardware upgrade for the Laptop 16. Given that this model will reach the two-year mark by the time it launches, the company isn’t likely to alter the recently released Framework Laptop 12 or the desktop variant anytime soon.
The earlier model featuring the Ryzen 7 7840HS processor will remain available, albeit at a discounted starting price of $1,299 for the DIY edition, minus RAM and storage. The Ryzen 9 7940HS variant will stay on the market until supplies run out, after which it will be phased out.
Graphics Capabilities and G-Sync Features
The new RTX 5070 graphics module boasts a redesigned heatsink and fan system and includes an additional USB-C port capable of both display output and power input. This feature may free up one of the Expansion Card slots for alternative uses. With the added power requirements, Framework has upgraded the power supply from 180W to 240W for the new Laptop 16.
It’s essential to clarify that the mobile RTX 5070 differs significantly from its desktop counterpart; it features only 8GB of RAM and 4,608 shader cores compared to 12GB of RAM and 6,144 shader cores in its desktop version. Framework estimates that the new mobile GPU will perform 30% to 40% better than the original Radeon RX 7700S used in the first Laptop 16. It will also support Nvidia technologies like DLSS and CUDA, along with enhanced ray-tracing capabilities, though the 8GB RAM may limit performance in some high-demand games and workloads.
Another development regarding the screens is that the updated 16-inch display will officially support both Nvidia’s G-Sync and AMD’s FreeSync technologies, a departure from the original display which only supported FreeSync. There are lingering questions about whether a firmware update could enable G-Sync on existing displays, although Framework acknowledges that no technical solution has been identified yet.
A Framework representative mentioned, “End-user firmware updates are something that our display supplier had never attempted before… If they need G-Sync support, they should pick up the new (2nd Gen) version of the panel that has the new firmware.” The original panel continues to support FreeSync.
Those who prefer not to purchase a new display for G-Sync may explore using settings overrides typically available to desktop users with FreeSync displays. Although Framework is primarily focused on ensuring out-of-the-box support for the new hardware and display combination, enforcing G-Sync compatibility on older models is not a route they seem keen to promote.
Meanwhile, Framework plans to keep the Radeon RX 7700S available due to the stability of AMD’s open-source Linux drivers. This module will also benefit from the updated cooling system that accompanies the RTX 5070, though performance is anticipated to remain relatively unchanged.
Processor Updates and Other Enhancements
While the specifics regarding CPU models were not detailed in the press release, Framework hinted that it would feature both 8-core Ryzen 7 and 12-core Ryzen AI 300 chips. This suggests inclusion of the Ryzen AI 7 350 and either the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 or 375 models, which share architectural similarities with those used in the recent Framework Laptop 13. The new processors will incorporate four “big” Zen 5 cores and a mix of four to eight smaller Zen 5c cores.
The Ryzen AI 7 chip integrates an eight-core Radeon 860M GPU, while the Ryzen AI 9 chips come with a 16-core Radeon 890M GPU, providing a notable performance boost for Laptop 16 buyers who do not opt for the modular graphics card.
In addition to core upgrades, Framework is implementing various refinements for a better user experience. Enhancements include upgraded webcam technology, a sturdier aluminum top cover with optimized geometry, keyboards designed without Windows logos for Linux users, and a dedicated Copilot key for Windows users.
Furthermore, improvements to the laptop’s six USB-C Expansion Card bays now allow up to four simultaneous display outputs via two ports on each side, up from the previous configuration that supported two outputs on one side and one on the other.
As with the original model, the new Laptop 16’s motherboard accommodates two DDR5 RAM slots for a maximum of 96GB and two M.2 storage slots for SSDs, with one being 80mm and the other 30mm long.
A comprehensive assessment of the updates will be necessary to determine how effectively they address previous criticisms. However, these enhancements position the Laptop 16 to fulfill its promise as a modular, upgradeable, and repairable device in the evolving tech landscape.