A Review of the Framework Laptop | Hacker News Reader

A Review of the Framework Laptop

blog.emacsen.net

36 pointsemacsen8 comments

I'm planning to buy a framework when they start shipping to the UK. I looked into buying one in the US and getting it imported, but the additional costs were more than I wanted to pay.

I went through their website and chose my own customisation and there was an option which said 'None (bring your own)'. Windows included costed extra compared to this. I understood that it would be straightforward for me to run eg. Ubuntu on the machine.

"The Framework laptop is clearly designed with Windows in mind, and when I ordered mine, I did not see a Linux or "No OS" version, though. I do not believe that it's possible to use a 100% Free/Open Source operating system without binary blob drivers on the Framework at this time."

What does 'binary blob drivers' mean?

One minor nit: I've got a System76 Lemur Pro as mentioned in this comparison. It does ship with the round barrel connector, but is also capable of charging over the USB-C port.

I was unaware of that and will update accordingly.

I own a Lemur and the power connection was one of my complaints, but that does still mean you can only power it from one side. The XPS13 and the Framework can be powered on either side.

Totally agreed with that downside. Also I really appreciate your review. I've got a Framework arriving soon and I replaced my XPS 13 with the Lemur Pro, so your analysis is charting ahead of exactly the path I'm on :)

Thanks!

You're welcome :)

Not sure what the dimensions of the barrel are, but I am a fan of these cheap usb-c to barrel adapters[1]. They have allowed me to ditch the bricks for a couple of older laptops I have kicking around.

1: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0831F6Z7N/

Hadn't heard of the MNT Reform.

Seeing it uses Kailh Choc switches made me think it would be able to take an ortholinear keyboard replacement. https://www.reddit.com/r/olkb/comments/ocf32y/ortholinear_la...

>I could probably optimize the laptop more if I were willing to t

Seems to cut off here.

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