AMD Ryzen processors are finally coming to upgradeable laptops from Framework Computer.
The company is debuting the AMD chips in the third-generation 13.5-inch Framework Windows laptop, which the San Francisco PC maker showed off during a Thursday event.
“The question has always been: ‘AMD, when?’” said Framework CEO Nirav Patel, citing the request for AMD processors as one of the biggest demands from customers.
The third-gen model adopts the AMD Ryzen 7040 chip series with options for Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7 CPUs. But Framework isn’t forgetting about Intel fans. The upcoming 13.5-inch laptop model will also support 13th generation Core “Raptor Lake” mobile CPUs from Team Blue, across three configurations.
The new Framework laptop retains the same aluminum chassis as last year’s model, so it seemingly looks and feels the same. However, the company has upgraded the 13.5-inch display with a new matte screen that’s designed to reduce light reflections and cut down on eye strain.
Another major improvement is the battery. Framework developed a 61Wh battery using the same footprint as the original 55Wh battery. “With lithium ion chemistry improvements, we’ve been able to get that extra 11% capacity,” Patel said. This means the Intel version of the new laptop should run about 20% to 30% longer.
Other improvements include revamping the laptop’s hinge to make it firmer, and adding louder speakers, already available on the Framework Chromebook Edition. Customers will also be able to select a variety of colors for the display's bezel, including transparent.
All the improvements to the third-gen model, including the Ryzen and Intel Raptor Lake CPUs, will be available to existing customers as purchasable upgrades, which are backward-compatible with the earlier Framework models. This includes the 61Wh battery, too.
In addition, customers can change an Intel-based Framework laptop into an AMD one, or vice-versa. All they have to do is buy the necessary mainboard, Wi-Fi module, and compatible RAM, Framework’s CEO told PCMag. Some component swaps, such as the display, will only take five to 10 minutes for a customer to complete with the help of a screwdriver, although switching out the mainboard can take longer.
Despite Thursday’s announcement, interested buyers will have to wait a while for the new laptop. The AMD model will start shipping in Q3 while the Intel 13th Gen Raptor Lake versions will begin arriving in May. For both chip brands, the third-gen Framework laptop will start at $849 for the DIY (do-it-yourself) version, and $1,049 for the pre-built models. Pre-orders kick off today on Framework’s website.
During Thursday's event, Framework also showed a 16-inch Windows laptop featuring a discrete GPU. But it remains unclear what chips the product will run.