Poll: Would you buy a modular laptop?

As the right to repair has apparently become the law of the country, there is a growing demand for computers that can be easily repaired and upgraded. Don’t you want a laptop with modular components that you can upgrade or replace to keep your system running for years?

Fortunately, there is an option. As Linus tech tips noted, Framework recently started shipping a modular laptop design with most of the major components either out-of-the-box replaceable or relatively easy to repair. In addition to upgrading your RAM and storage, you can choose your own Wi-Fi module, operating system, and even ports. Do you need full-size DisplayPort instead of an additional USB-C jack? You can make this change yourself.

While items like the motherboard aren’t as modular as you might want them to be (mobile CPUs aren’t typically sold separately from boards), the Framework laptop also makes many parts relatively easy to maintain. You can insert a replacement motherboard, customize your buttons, or swap out the display bezel if you want something more colorful. And most importantly, you don’t have to make a lot of compromises – the 13.5-inch device is about as thick, modern and fast as many of its traditional competitors.

Of course there are victims. Framework’s modular laptop is not as slim as established competitors and offers no special tricks other than being upgradeable. There are no dedicated GPUs, exotic cooling options, or other perks often associated with portable PCs. You also need to be patient when systems are shipped in batches rather than on-demand.

Continue reading: Should we tolerate devices that are difficult to repair?

Even so, the introduction begs a good question: Given these tradeoffs, would you buy a modular laptop from Framework (or someone else)? Or are you more interested in sleek design and clever features that might not be possible in a computer like this one? Let us know in the poll below and in the comments.