Framework has expanded its modular Laptop 16 line with a new graphics upgrade that swaps in an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 12 GB GPU. The add‑on replaces the earlier 8 GB version and pushes the laptop’s rasterization capability well into the high‑end gaming tier. Pricing jumps to $1,199, more than double the base model’s cost. Its plug‑in design retains the brand’s hallmark of tool‑free swaps, appealing to DIY enthusiasts.

The original Laptop 16 graphics module, priced at $699, paired the RTX 5070 8 GB with an AMD Radeon RX 7700S baseline chip. Moving to 12 GB of VRAM adds roughly 50% more memory, but the price surge—about 72%—reflects Framework’s low‑volume production and a broader DRAM shortage that has inflated component costs across the PC market. Additionally, the module’s thermal solution has been upgraded to handle the higher power draw without sacrificing the laptop’s thin profile.

Consumers eyeing a repairable, upgradable laptop now face a steep cost decision: the performance boost may justify the expense for professionals who need extra VRAM for rendering or AI workloads, while casual gamers might stick with the cheaper 8 GB option. Ultimately, buyers must weigh the novelty of a fully serviceable high‑end GPU against the sticker shock of a $1,199 upgrade. Framework’s pricing strategy underscores the premium attached to niche, modular hardware in a strained supply chain.