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How Would You Spec a Framework 13 for an Educational Use Case?

Currently looking at a DIY AMD 7640U, 1x16GB RAM, 250GB storage, 1 USB-C, 2 USB-A, 1 HDMI.

My use case will mostly entail note taking in class. I've got a built PC at home.

But I'm not a hardware guy, would I be better served w/ different CPU or RAM set up in your opinions? I've mostly picked bottom tier specs but is there anything in your opinions that is worth splurging on, all things considered?

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  • imo 250gb is not enough at all, at least spec a 500gb or 1tb. I don't even have games on my 256gb machine and it's out of storage because of proprietary software bullshit.

    Buying storage directly from framework is expensive though, I recommend just buying it from a local hardware store. The cheapest out of the sn550/570/580/750/850, crucial p5, kc2500 should do.

    Also, 1x16gb will halve your memory bandwidth, get a 2x8gb kit

  • Linux or Windows?

    As for your questions:

    • this CPU will be fine for years for absolutely everything except AAA gaming.
    • On Linux, 16Gbs of RAM is fine. As other said, prefer 2x8Gb instead of a single 16Gb.
    • 250Gb of storage is very cramped by modern standards. I would go at least 512Gb. Buy your SSD from elsewhere, it's much cheaper.
    • maybe grab an extra USB-C in case you need to plug an external drive while charging your PC.
  • Would it be better to go 2 USB c + 1 USB A?

    I'm not as familiar with how the framework laptops charge, but if it's done over USB C then it might get annoying if you need to charge and connect to something at the same time

    • They recommended 2 USB C + 1 USB A on their website as the most popular choice. I find myself using Type A more often with peripherals, flashdrives, & etc. So that's why I was going with 2 USB A. But maybe I'm behind the times on that and aught to move forward.

      • Fair enough! Whichever is more convenient for you. I imagine it's much easier to swap or upgrade with a framework laptop, so it's not a big deal regardless

      • @FireTower @otter I have 2 USB-A adaptors, because I use an external CD drive with additional USB-A cable to deliver power. Same for the external DVD drive.

        I also have a 2nd (spare) USB-C in my bag if I need it, or in case one gets damaged.

11 comments