Ultra customizable framework framework laptop We are moving to a new type of laptop, the Chromebook, with a fully interchangeable mainboard and expansion modules for different ports.
Starting today, Framework is accepting pre-orders for the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition. Pricing starts at $999 and will ship in early December.
In its release, Framework said the laptop would run on a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1240P and deliver 30 watts of sustained performance. The pre-built version comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and 256GB of NVMe storage, which can be upgraded up to 64GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The company has not disclosed what kind of upgrades will be available in the future, but a representative said all current expansion cards are cross-compatible between Framework Laptop and Chromebook Editions. .
Most of the known framework laptops remain unchanged in the Chromebook Edition, including the 3:2 display, Intel 12th Gen P-series processors, magnetic bezels, and hardware switches that block access to the microphone and camera. Upgrading and replacing parts is still easy, like socketed RAM and storage, and QR codes that link to repair guides.
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There are some differences. The biggest problem is that Chromebook keyboard layouts are different from typical Windows laptop keyboard layouts. For example, the Control and Alt keys are long, so the cutout is long. It’s unclear what options the framework offers to customize its layout.
Additionally, Framework says battery optimizations by Google and Intel should lead to even longer battery life. I found the Windows version to have moderate battery life, so this is a good thing.
The Chromebook will also use Google’s Titan C security chip, and the company says the laptop will auto-update for “up to eight years.”
I think this laptop has great potential for schools. Replacing the mainboard every few years and getting more updates to his ChromeOS could save the school district from having to buy a new laptop. That said, the same school district may have a ton of deals with companies like his HP, Dell, and Microsoft. Frameworks have proven themselves by producing multiple generations of workhorse products, but they are not a household name, especially outside of tech enthusiasts.
I haven’t tested it, but Saw the latest Windows version, we have high hopes. Many DIY enthusiasts would want Chrome? Perhaps especially for those looking for simplicity or passing the device to a child. But there are plenty of options available for less than a fifth of that price. There’s no arguing that $999 (at the start) is a lot of money for a Chromebook when (admittedly, much less serviceable or powerful).
