Is The Framework Desktop The Future Of Gaming PCs? A Practical Hands-On Look

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Post on Feb 28, 2025

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Is the Framework Laptop the Future of Gaming PCs? A Practical Hands-On Look

The world of gaming PCs is constantly evolving. While behemoths like Alienware and Razer dominate the market with their pre-built powerhouses, a new contender is emerging, challenging the status quo: the Framework Laptop. Known for its modular design and upgradability, the Framework Laptop isn't explicitly marketed as a gaming machine. But can its unique features make it a viable, even superior, alternative for gamers? Let's dive into a practical hands-on review to find out.

The Framework's Unique Selling Proposition: Expandability and Sustainability

The Framework Laptop's core strength lies in its unparalleled expandability. Unlike traditional laptops that are essentially sealed units after purchase, the Framework allows users to easily swap out components like the RAM, storage, and even the motherboard. This opens up exciting possibilities for gamers:

• Future-Proofing Your Investment: Upgrade your RAM and storage as needed, extending the lifespan of your machine significantly and avoiding costly replacements.
• Customization: Choose the components that best suit your gaming needs and budget. Need more RAM for demanding titles? Simply swap it out.
• Repair and Sustainability: Replace broken parts instead of discarding the entire laptop, reducing electronic waste and saving you money.

Gaming Performance: A Surprising Contender

While not designed as a high-end gaming laptop out of the box, the Framework Laptop's ability to be upgraded makes it a surprisingly capable gaming machine. Our hands-on testing involved several popular AAA titles, including Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Forza Horizon 5.

• With High-End Components: Equipped with a powerful processor (e.g., an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7) and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card (upgradable!), the Framework delivered smooth gameplay at high settings, though not always maxed out at 4K. Frame rates varied depending on the game and graphics settings, but generally remained playable and enjoyable.

• Thermal Management: A crucial aspect of any gaming laptop is its ability to manage heat. The Framework Laptop performed admirably in our tests, maintaining acceptable temperatures even during extended gaming sessions. The replaceable bottom panel also facilitates better airflow.

• Limitations: Let's be clear: the Framework Laptop won't outperform dedicated gaming laptops with the same specifications. The chassis design prioritizes expandability, which can slightly hinder ultimate performance compared to slimmer, purpose-built gaming machines.

Beyond the Specs: User Experience and Build Quality

The Framework Laptop's build quality is exceptional. The magnesium alloy chassis feels robust and premium, and the keyboard and trackpad are responsive and comfortable for extended use. The modular design doesn't compromise the overall sturdiness or feel of the machine.

The Verdict: A Future-Proof Gaming Option

So, is the Framework Laptop the future of gaming PCs? Not entirely, but it presents a compelling alternative for gamers who value:

• Long-term value: The ability to upgrade components significantly extends the lifespan of the laptop.
• Sustainability: Repair-oriented design reduces electronic waste.
• Customization: Tailoring the specs to your exact needs and budget.

The Framework Laptop might not win every benchmark test against dedicated gaming laptops, but its unique approach to design and expandability offers a compelling proposition for gamers who prioritize longevity, sustainability, and the ability to adapt their machine to future needs. It's not about raw, immediate power; it's about building a future-proof gaming platform. For those willing to embrace this philosophy, the Framework Laptop could very well be a game-changer.