Framework has just rolled out the biggest upgrade to its Laptop 16 lineup, turning a modest gaming machine into a true upgradable powerhouse. If you’ve owned the original laptop, you can now swap the Radeon RX 7700S for NVIDIA’s RTX 5070 and add 8 GB of DDR7 VRAM. The move also brings a brand‑new mainboard, a 165 Hz G‑Sync panel, Wi‑Fi 7, and a 240 W power adapter.
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Hardware Highlights
The 2025 build ships with two new AMD Ryzen AI chips—Ryzen AI 7 350 and Ryzen AI 9 HZ 370—both rated at 45 W TDP. Memory can reach 86 GB, and you can install one or two SSDs. Expansion is handled through six modular slots that house GPUs, Wi‑Fi cards, and more.
Inside the chassis, the RTX 5070 module is a self‑contained unit that plugs into the back of the laptop. It brings 8 GB of GDDR7 RAM, and when paired with the new mainboard it delivers sub‑200 fps in demanding titles at 1080p (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077 on highest settings). For productivity, the machine can compress a 38 GB 4K video to 8 GB in just over 28 minutes and run AI workloads like Gemini 3 27B with solid speed.
Modularity Made Easy
Framework’s modular approach is its biggest selling point. The company provides clear iFixit‑style instructions; swapping the mainboard and GPU usually takes under 30 minutes. The new design also fixes a long‑standing issue: the rear USB‑C port now supports charging, a feature that was missing on earlier models.
Because the laptop relies on separate cooling paths for the mainboard and GPU, users may notice more fan noise and heat under load. A test unit warmed enough that it was uncomfortable on a lap, but performance remained strong.
Display, Ports, and Connectivity
With a 2,560 × 1,600 panel running at 165 Hz, the new laptop supports NVIDIA G‑Sync and offers a sharp, responsive gaming experience. Additional upgrades include a new top cover, improved keyboard and numpad, a better webcam, and Wi‑Fi 7 support.
Port flexibility remains tied to the expansion card chosen. AMD‑based configurations use a specific set of slots, so users must plan which ports they need ahead of time.
Pricing & Value
Pre‑built models start at $1,500 for the Ryzen AI 7, $1,800 for the Ryzen AI 9, and an extra $699 for the RTX 5070 module. Buying the base laptop and adding the GPU later keeps costs manageable, especially compared to a new gaming rig that can cost under $2,000 (e.g., HP’s Omen Max).
The modular philosophy means you can swap in newer GPUs or CPUs a couple of years down the line without purchasing a brand‑new machine, which can save money if future prices rise.
Verdict
If you value longevity, upgradeability, and raw power, the Framework Laptop 16 with the RTX 5070 is a compelling choice. It delivers strong gaming and AI performance, though the fan noise and heat under heavy load may not suit every user. For professionals and enthusiasts who prefer a machine that can evolve, the 2025 upgrade makes the Laptop 16 a standout in the modular laptop market.
