Modern laptops have limited DIY upgrade options, such as RAM and storage. In the worst cases, just getting inside is a pain, the RAM is soldered to the motherboard, or the ribbon cables tear when you pry open the panel A startup company called Framework has designed a modular laptop designed to make all kinds of upgrades easy. A start-up company called Framework has taken a decidedly different approach with its modular notebooks designed for easy upgrades of all kinds.

Remember the bare-bones whitebooks? This approach is reminiscent of that, but with the latest hardware and built thinner.

"The industry wisdom is that making a product repairable makes it thicker, heavier, uglier, less robust, and more expensive. We are here to prove that wrong and repair consumer electronics one category at a time," Framework explains.

Framework's first effort is somewhat similar to the MacBook, but built around Intel's 11th generation Core processors, with up to 64GB of DDR4 memory, 4TB (or more) of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, and Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity It consists of a configurable 13.5" laptop.

The machined aluminum "precision molded" chassis measures 15.85 mm (0.62") and weighs only 1.3 kg (2.87 lbs).

What really stands out, however, is the extreme focus on user customization, repairs, and upgrades. From socketed storage and RAM to the mainboard and display, the framework promises to be easily accessed and removed as needed.

"Frequently used parts such as the battery, screen, keyboard, and color-customizable magnetic bezel are easy to replace. Each item's QR code gives you direct access to the guide and web store listing," says Framework.

The feasibility of modular laptops is predicated on Framework offering future compatible hardware upgrades, for which the company intends to offer new parts "on a regular basis." The company is also making its ecosystem open so that other companies can sell compatible parts and modules.

Speaking of the latter, there are four external bays where users can mount various modules: USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, microSD, storage, headphone amplifier, and other modules that plug into both sides of the chassis. Options will be available.

Framework will offer a variety of preconfigured models running Windows 10 and a Framework Laptop DIY Edition "available as a kit of modules that you can customize and assemble yourself." In any case, Framework emphasizes that it has designed these systems to be easy to tinker with, with drivers included in the box.

This is a great concept and I applaud Framework for embracing the right to repair. However, it does not appear that the CPU or GPU can be replaced individually, and the entire mainboard would need to be replaced. But you have to start somewhere, that's for sure. We hope Framework will follow suit and release a modular gaming laptop model. As it stands, the first Framework Laptop will be available this summer.