Big brands should take note of this since this is something customers might genuinely want.
Framework is a computer brand that decided to hand the power of modularity to its customers.
Its objective is to deliver remarkably flexible, repairable, and affordable systems.
On a few critical levels, what you are paying for here is choice.
The Framework 7040 series is a modular laptop design that takes the plug-and-play nature of USB.
And it isnt anything were expecting Apple to repeat anytime soon.
In our review machine, the port connection included four USB-C, one USB-A and a DisplayPort.
But these arent the only options that a customer gets.
Other choices include HDMI (3rd gen), Ethernet, MicroSD card reader and Audio.
Therefore, it cant support technologies that need PCIe or some other special technology.
One important detail about the modular slots is that theyre all not created equal.
The top slots, those nearest the hinge, are full USB 4.0 with DP capable.
Whereas the lower two are only USB 3.2 Gen 2.
But this isnt the only modular aspect of the 7040 series.
Even the coloured bezel can be replaced with another shade, should that be a requirement.
Its all engineered to aerospace tolerances, providing a form that is easy to handle and use.
Another standout feature of this design is the size and quality of the display.
What this platform offers is PCIe 4.0, allowing faster internal NVMe storage.
Framework went with an odd resolution display of 2256 x 1504, an iPad-like 3:2 ratio.
One omission on a laptop that costs this much is a webcam that supports Windows Hello.
The webcam is a decent-quality camera with 1080p capture, but it cant be used for biometric confirmations.
The only option for that is a fingerprint reader that is on the power button.
It might be a problem to get these confused, so be careful when running streaming applications.
It has a Zen 4 architecture and is the fastest Phoenix series U class gadget model.
It might not be amazing graphically, but in single and multithreaded compute tests it smashes the 6850H.
By the default setting of Auto mode, the iGPU is only given 512MB of system memory by default.
The module mechanism is elegant, and support should continue as long as Framework doesnt cease to exist.
Should you buy a Framework 7040 Series?
The latest AMD Ryzen 7 processor provides both high performance and power efficiency in a single package.
You need more graphics powerWithout a discrete GPU, the graphics capabilities of this machine are limited.
But it lacks a USB-A port, and its battery life is less impressive than the 7040 series.
This machine competes more with the Framework Laptop 16, and as such, is an impressive performer.
Read ourLenovo ThinkPad Z16 Gen 1 reviewfor more information.
And curiously, the 2023 model doesnt perform as well on battery power as the 2022 version did.
Check out ourDell XPS 15 (2023) review
For more business laptop options check out ourBest Business Laptopsselection.
