Framework, maker of modular, repairable Framework laptops, has begun offering an updated version along with packs of branded USB-C expansion cards. Many hardware manufacturers offer remanufactured goods, but the Framework’s unique position in the notebook market makes that statement a little different.
The Framework blog post, announcing the new market, notes the company’s commitment to “redesigning consumer electronics with respect for people and the planet”, and that the company’s work to offer previously purchased devices is part of that. Buying refurbished means the laptop (and the planet) will get more value out of the parts already made. And, of course, there’s the discount: DIY Edition 11th Gen refurbished laptops start at $600 on the refurbished Framework Marketplace, while the new 11th Gen model costs at least $680.
Most refurbished models are returned under a 30-day laptop warranty, writes Framework in a post. Laptops are tested and cleaned at a service center in New Jersey, and then parts are replaced if necessary. The Framework notes that it can do the job in Europe or Australia as well, but – in a subtle piece of quality control marketing – it claims to have “made so little profit”that it can’t build that kind of inventory.
The specific appearance quality of each refurbished device will be listed on the product order page. Framework says it “set some pretty strict caps”on its initial sales. This means no more than 10 scratches on the top cover, with none exceeding 2 cm in length, and similar limits for the sides and keyboard case, although up to 30 are allowed on the bottom. Dents, cracks, breaks, chips are not allowed anywhere. Each device also carries the same one-year warranty as new products.
These DIY refurbished laptops do not come with memory, storage, Wi-Fi cards, power cables, operating systems, or expansion cards. For this final step at least, Framework offers four packs of refurbished expansion cards, hot-swappable square USB-C converters that slot into the sides of the laptop. You get two USB-C cards, one USB-A, and 1 HDMI card for $30, which is a noticeable discount from the $20 each new card typically costs.
The updated Framework offerings demonstrate commitment to the values of the circular economy by creating exciting opportunities for their customers. If almost any part of a repaired device seems too worn out to you at first or over time, you can almost certainly replace it. If buying 11th-generation Intel-based hardware makes you itching for upgrades, the company has so far offered motherboards in the field that you can install in existing models.
More than 54 million tons of electronics are destroyed worldwide every year. A small refurbished Framework start makes sense for the company and will hopefully keep working devices from this waste stream.