I am looking to buy a new laptop, and I’d be interested in the Framework laptop. What I like are the replaceability and upgradeability of parts, and the fact it is not (to my knowledge) tied to any large corporation.
However, they are not available for Switzerland, and there is no telling if and when they will be. I’m not dead set on having replaceable parts, but I’d at least like to have something that would not cause issues if I were to install a Linux distrib’ on it (I had a Surface Pro, and had trouble setting up a Mint on it due to missing drivers for the keyboard). And helping smaller companies is a nice plus.
What would your recommendations be?
Every laptop part is replaceable if you have enough free time
There’s nothing truly like a Framework, because they’re a whole unique category of one. But if you just want something that is user serviceable there are other options.
I’m a big fan of my Star Labs laptop. It came with complete disassembly and reassembly instructions, and pretty much every part is available to buy individually as a replacement. It’s not magically “plug and go” like a Framework, but if you’re comfortable with a screwdriver you should have no trouble.
They’re a Linux specialist small independent producer, too. And being based in the UK, imports to Switzerland should be more straightforward than imports from the States.
I had a Surface Pro, and had trouble setting up a Mint on it due to missing drivers for the keyboard
There is a custom kernel for surface devices, and you might need it. Github
I got this laptop late last year. It works perfectly with Linux. And it is good as a development laptop while I’m watching TV. I was looking at the Framework and other upgradable laptops. But I couldn’t get anywhere near the specs for anywhere near the price.
im not sure this applies to Switzerland but Framework now allows freight forwarding within the EU it seems (it also seems recent as most older discussion says it was prohibited).
https://knowledgebase.frame.work/en_us/eu-unsupported-SJByUb7a
Also, I think a delivery to Switzerland is not too far out as they have finalized a keyboard layout a while ago and this is a necessary step before delivery.
(Notice how there is Sweden in that list which is now available for a laptop to order too officially).
I’m hoping these countries get expanded to soon!
