“A computer should be yours”: Framework CEO calls out MacBook Neo design

[Redaktion]

Framework CEO Nirav Patel posted a teardown comparing Apple's $599 MacBook Neo with the similarly priced Framework Laptop 12, arguing they embody opposing philosophies despite both targeting budget buyers. He praised Apple's improved access to parts like the battery and ports, but criticized its soldered RAM and storage, and the costly display replacement, positioning Framework's modular, upgradeable design as a longer-lasting alternative that reduces e-waste and avoids pulling users into Apple's "walled garden."

https://www.notebookcheck.net/A-computer-should-be-yours-Framework-CEO-calls-out-MacBook-Neo-design.1262826.0.html

[Agreed, but]

Generally I agree, but I bought things in the past that were made to be more easily repairable, etc., but I never needed that. For schools, etc., the probability of needing repair is higher, of course.

And how good is e.g. the touchpad that one would have to endure (if it's bad -- Neo's is just going to be better) for the ability to repair, which would probably would never need.

Regarding the Neo: All the big reviewers on YouTube recommend you get a Apple Refurbished Air instead. For organizations this may not be possible, obviously.

[AreYouSure]

"Similarly priced"

Macbook Neo  $599
Framework 12 $799

Obviously the framework is the better choice, I have one and I love it, but the price comparison is unfair.
The Neo really is there to compete with chromebooks, and it is.

I don't think framework has a "compete with chromebook" tier yet.

[Tommy the nerd]

Apples and Oranges.

I love upgradeability, but the SOC design of Apple's ARM implementation has other strengths.

Also, the Neo offers MacOs. What does this guy's machine offer? Windows? Linux?

I love Linux but its software or specialized device support won't be sufficient for many.

For those who want a mainstream popular Windows alternative, the Neo would be the choice.

Most people aren't into the upgrade thing. They'll just buy a new machine eventually.

The types of people who are into upgrading and running Linux are not the same people who would buy a Neo.

[Julian M]

Not trying to excuse Apple for how they build these all-soldered, nonupgradable computers - but really, it's a phone logic board slapped in a notebook case, it's amazing this thing is usable at all, and it's nothing like a normal notebook like Framework's.

[Randy Hill]

I guess framework is feeling the heat. The neo is a much better laptop than a framework 12. the Neo's screen is far better. Its processor is far faster, and its battery life is greater.

[._.]

I guess framework is feeling the heat.

Every OEM is feeling heat due to the increasing oil and gas prices happening cuz of the war, which is causing transportation costs to rise for individual components significantly among other things. Smaller companies are definitely impacted more, for sure. In fact, it is rumoured many will go out of business similar to what happened in COVID, only those with tons of money like Apple will be able to weather this storm long-term.