Framework’s computers aren’t perfect, but they are exciting
theverge.com
theverge.com
Marketing? Intangible concepts?
From the article:
> I can appreciate the excitement generated by Framework’s computers even if I don’t ever buy one
> I don’t know if I will ever buy a Framework laptop.
Like many people, I have owned a series of laptops. The smartest hardware design has been the Framework. It is a pleasure to use and it is a Linux-first device as well.
At the low end of cost, Chromebooks have come a long way and provide very good value and functionality for the money. At the high end, the Framework is a smart, quality product that is unencumbered by Redmond and Cupertino.
Frameworks are my latest "coolest thing I'll never buy". I love their Chromebook offering. I'm thrilled that they have AMD boards now. I can't wait to see what kind of stuff is going to be built out of the parts people replace as they upgrade. It's been amazing watching them continue to develop their products and grow in spite of global challenges.
But I'll probably never buy one because the MacBook Air and Gram are cheaper and more powerful, and my Chromebooks do everything I need for less than $200. I also don't think I really need project laptop newer than a T-series.
But man, I'd snatch up a second hand unit for $750 in a heartbeat.
Why? ChromeOS is just a weirdo Linux distro. Any Framework should be able to run it. Why would you need a special machine to run one particular OS?
And, if you want a Chromebook, why would you spend more than $250 on one?
All Framework has to do for that effect to kick in is to keep going and building out to a critical mass, which they seem to be well-positioned for - they've got funding, industry hypemen championing the cause, and some "pretty decent" enthusiast products carving a path.
I'm not sure why one can't get excited about the Framework without owning one. I haven't bought a Framework because I already have a perfectly good laptop. But it's still great to see a laptop like this in the market and I hope that it (or something else inspired by it) is still around when I eventually do need to buy a laptop again.
> I don’t know if I will ever buy a Framework laptop.
vs your statement:
> I hope that it (or something else inspired by it) is still around when I eventually do need to buy a laptop again.
Atleast you are open to potentially owning one (subject to conditions, of course).
> Sure, the MacBook Pro I’m writing this article on works incredibly well — it’s objectively the best laptop I’ve ever owned — but it’s also the same thing everyone else has.
The VPR Matrix laptop was somewhat interesting though, I never knew those existed. Looks pretty nice for 2005.
It is a Windows-first device with an option not to have operating system and vibrant Linux community.
They've brought on dedicated staff for Linux support (Matt Hartley) and utilized LVFS to deliver seamless firmware updates. They've also continued to address Linux specific hardware/firmware bugs, which many companies prefer not to deal with.
I'm really hoping to see this Linux-friendliness continue with out-of-the-gate support for their new releases, particularly the GPU situation on the 16". It's certainly laudable to respond quickly to the enthusiast community, but it's even better to launch products with some level of testing on major distros.
Once they get QA up and built, I anticipate trying again. Until then, if the keyboard remains too hot to use comfortably its sort of a no-go.
I see no use in splitting this follicle. The explicit option not to have an OS installed is intended for Linux users. I installed Linux and all the hardware works as intended.
Being open to people installing Linux isn't exactly the same thing as shipping it, even if the "support" some of those larger vendors provide is of questionable value.
He has had it for about 6 months now and he absolutely loves it. I'm about to replace the hinges with the stiffer variants.
No regrets whatsoever.
Maybe Framework has those too now though?
The shell is my last remaining point against Framework; if their next generation has Thinkpad-level build quality or even if they sell such a shell under a separate "pro" model (and charge extra for it), there won't be any hurdles left.
Asahi progress is so impressive, that it will probably be daily driver ready by next year!
Currently I’m looking forward to being able to do gaming through wine on my MacBook with Asahi.
That being said, I've had my Framework 13 for just over a year now and it's a fantastic computer, none of the compromises affect me much, although I could believe that they could affect other peoples' workflows. For reference I'd previously used a 16-inch 2018 MacBook Pro for work and it was an absolute piece of shit compared to the Framework (I now have the 2022 M1 Max 16 inch MacBook Pro for work and it's in a league of its own tbh).
But the main advantage Framework offers to me as a remote worker is the ability to replace components without having my work machine be out of service while waiting for shipping+servicing.
I only wish Framework would do a better job at keeping their bespoke components in stock and available for overnight/same day shipping, maybe charge a premium or something.
But I'm a first-generation adopter, I am assuming these types of things are getting ironed out in future generations or have already been.
1. Tell them the part was broken. 2. Send them a photo of the broken part and serial number at their request. 3. The replacement was on its way.
Perhaps they're a bit miserly with more expensive components like the mainboard.
On balance though, I would probably give them another go when this needs an upgrade.
Why we are reading opinion pieces from Apple sheep that does not known anything?
Framework has its place. But bigger problem is that industry is dominated by idiots, who should not be able to share their opinion, on things they did not even try!!!