+6590230522 inboxleo@oleohub.com
Select Page

📱 Apple iPhone 17 Air – Slim Design, Features & Review 2025

by | Oct 3, 2025 | Mobile Phone

Apple has made a brand-new phone called the iPhone 17 Pro Max. It’s big, shiny, and super powerful. Every year, Apple makes their iPhones better, and this one is their best phone ever. It has a strong body, a really fast brain (chip), amazing cameras, and a long-lasting battery.

But the big question is: is it worth buying? Let’s check out what makes this phone so special.

(Credit: Apple.com)

Design (How It Looks and Feels)  

  • The phone is made with titanium and glass, so it’s strong but not too heavy.

  • It’s a little bigger than the last iPhone but also thinner, so it’s easier to hold.

  • Comes in cool new colors like Midnight Blue and Solar Titanium.

  • It’s waterproof and dustproof, so you don’t have to worry if it gets a little wet.

 

👉 In short: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is both tough and stylish.

 

 

Screen (What You See)

  • The screen is huge — 6.9 inches!

  • It’s super bright, so you can see it clearly even in the sun.

  • Colors look amazing, whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or scrolling TikTok.

  • The screen refreshes super fast (144Hz), so everything looks smooth.

👉 Watching videos or playing games feels like you’re looking at a mini movie theater in your hand.

One click and your internet is private. Get NordVPN today.

 

 

Performance (How Fast It Is)

  • It uses Apple’s newest brain called the A19 Bionic chip.

  • This chip makes the phone run super fast and saves battery too.

  • You can play heavy games, edit videos, or open many apps at once without slowing down.

  • Apple also added AI (artificial intelligence) to make things smarter — like fixing photos, predicting texts, and giving quick answers with Siri.

👉 This phone is basically like having a tiny powerful computer in your pocket.

 

Cameras (Take Amazing Photos and Videos)

  • The back has 4 cameras:

    • 200MP main camera (super detailed photos).

    • 48MP wide camera (great for landscapes).

    • 12MP zoom camera (can zoom in 10x without getting blurry).

    • LiDAR scanner (helps focus in the dark).

  • You can also record 8K videos (super sharp, like movies).

  • The selfie camera is 48MP, so your selfies look crystal clear.

  • Night photos look way better now — brighter and cleaner.

👉 If you love taking photos or making TikToks/YouTube videos, this phone is like carrying a pro camera everywhere.

 

 

One click and your internet is private. Get NordVPN today.

 

 

Battery (How Long It Lasts)

 

  • Big 5000mAh battery — lasts almost 2 days with normal use.

  • Can charge super fast: 50% in less than 20 minutes.

  • Works with wireless charging and can even charge your AirPods or Apple Watch.

👉 No more worrying about your phone dying in the middle of the day.

 

Software (What It Can Do)

  • Runs on iOS 19, Apple’s latest software.

  • Siri is smarter and faster — now it works even without the internet for some things.

  • You can connect smoothly with your iPad or MacBook — start something on your phone, finish it on another Apple device.

  • Fun new widgets and better privacy tools keep your data safe.

👉 The phone doesn’t just work well — it also works with all your other Apple gadgets.

 

 

One click and your internet is private. Get NordVPN today.

Price and Availability

  • Starts at $1,399 in the US (about S$1,899 in Singapore).

  • Comes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and even 2TB versions.

  • Pre-orders opened in September 2025, and it’s available worldwide now.

👉 It’s expensive, but it’s Apple’s top phone, made for people who want the very best.

 

🎯 Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is Apple’s most powerful phone yet. It has:

✅ A super-strong design

✅ One of the best screens ever

✅ A super-fast chip

✅ Cameras that beat most pro cameras

✅ Long battery life

✅ Smart new software

It’s pricey, but if you love gaming, photography, videos, or just want the top phone of 2025, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is hard to beat.

👉 It’s not just a phone — it’s like a mini computer, movie studio, and camera in your pocket.

The iPhone 17 Air is Apple’s sleekest and lightest iPhone yet — perfect for those who want power without the bulk. With its slim design, bright display, and strong performance, it feels like the perfect balance between style and speed. What are your thoughts on the iPhone 17 Air? Would you pick it over the Pro Max? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned to Oleohub for more hands-on reviews and the latest in tech.

 

 

One click and your internet is private. Get NordVPN today.

I Preordered the iPhone 17 Pro Max: Here’s Why (Plus 11 Buyer Mistakes to Avoid)

by | Sep 17, 2025 | Mobile Phone

Preorders for the iPhone 17 lineup went live this morning, and after fighting through a wall of traffic, I locked in an iPhone 17 Pro Max. In this piece, I’ll explain why I chose the Pro Max over the smaller Pro, what Apple actually focused on this year, and the 11 most common buying mistakes I’m already seeing—so you can pick the right model for you.

Why This Year Feels Different 

Last year’s iPhone 16 family leaned hard into Apple Intelligence. This year, Apple turned the spotlight back to hardware, and the shift is immediately obvious—especially on the 17 Pro series:
  • Cooling finally gets first-class treatment, with a redesigned thermal system intended to reduce heat, avoid performance throttling, and keep the screen from dimming during gaming and long 4K shoots.
  • A unibody aluminum design replaces titanium. It’s better for heat dissipation and pairs with the new thermal design to keep the phone comfortable and consistent under load.

Coming from a 16 Pro, I can’t overstate how welcome this is. On iOS 26, my 16 Pro often gets uncomfortably hot, which hurts battery life, triggers throttling, and dims the display. The 17 Pro series addresses that root problem instead of just adding more speed on paper.

Why I Picked the Pro Max 

I typically flip between sizes year to year to keep the experience feeling fresh. I went from 15 Pro Max → 16 Pro for a lighter, easier hold. This year I’m going back up to 17 Pro Max for two reasons:
  • Battery life. Apple rates the 17 Pro Max at up to 39 hours of video playback. I’ll be running a full battery comparison across the lineup (17/17 Pro/17 Pro Max/17 Air), but on paper, this is the endurance champ.
  • Bigger display. For editing, gaming, and camera work, the extra screen estate matters.
That said, 17 Pro is still a compelling option. The big twist: 17 Pro now inherits the kind of battery endurance the 16 Pro Max was known for, but in the smaller form factor. If you want “Max-like” staying power without the size, that alone makes the 17 Pro tempting.

Storage & Color Choices 

This time I ordered 512GB. I had 1TB on the 16 Pro and never filled it, and since I upgrade annually, that extra headroom wasn’t essential. 
On color, I chose Silver. Cosmic Orange looks awesome on camera, but I prefer a neutral that matches my Macs and iPad and won’t feel loud with a blazer in a meeting a year or two from now. I also skipped Dark Blue to switch up from my last dark iPhone.

The Standard iPhone 17 Is Shockingly Good 

The regular iPhone 17 is the best “standard” iPhone in years. You get:
  • 120Hz ProMotion
  • ~3,000-nit class peak brightness
  • The A19 chip
  • Much of the polish people used to associate with Pro models
Color and camera differences remain, but the gap is smaller than ever. If you don’t need the Pro’s photography tools or faster I/O, the regular 17 is now an easy recommendation.

 

A Word on the iPhone 17 Air 

The iPhone 17 Air is fascinating—incredibly thin and light, a true design statement—but it carries trade-offs: 
  • Single earpiece speaker (no traditional stereo pair)
  • Slower charging than the rest of the 17 family
  • Chips clustered in the camera plateau could concentrate heat
  • Despite the “Pro” silicon lineage, it likely won’t sustain Pro-level performance under load the way the Pro/Pro Max (with their cooling) can
It’s a luxury, style-first device that some will love. Just know what you’re giving up.

 

11 Buying Mistakes to Avoid 

 

1) Assuming you “need” a Pro 

With the 17’s 256GB base storage, fast chipset, 120Hz, and brighter display, the standard 17 will be more than enough for a lot of people. 

2) Thinking Apple still “cripples” the standard model 

This year the regular 17 isn’t artificially limited like past base models (think 60Hz era). You’re getting the smooth display, high brightness, and coatings that used to be Pro talking points. 

3) Misreading the 17 Air 

It’s not just a thinner 17. It’s a design piece with compromises: speaker setup, charging speed, and likely sustained performance due to tighter thermals. 

4) Misinterpreting the camera marketing 

18MP front camera across the lineup is a legit upgrade (wider, better quality). On the rear, Apple’s language can make it sound like you’re getting more cameras than you are. The Pro telephoto is the real story: 48MP with 4× optical that crops to 8×—more useful mid-zoom in day-to-day shooting. 

5) Assuming all USB-C is equal 

17 Pro/Pro Max: much faster data transfer for pro workflows. 17 and 17 Air: USB 2.0-class speeds that feel ancient if you move big files. 

6) Treating all A19 chips the same 

Yes, A19 and A19 Pro share architecture, but sustained performance on the Pro models is where the magic happens—thanks to the new thermal system. The Air may throttle earlier under heavy load. 

7) Believing “best glass ever” means case-free living 

It’s still glass. If you skip a case or protector, expect scratches over time. (If you want a built-in protector + kickstand + MagSafe, look for a well-designed folio/flip case.) 

8) Buying the Air just to avoid “heavy phones” 

It’s only ~12g lighter than the regular 17, and it’s taller and wider. Once you add a case (most of us do), the thinness advantage shrinks. 

9) Seeing aluminum as a downgrade from titanium 

For thermals, aluminum is better. It dissipates heat instead of trapping it, which helps prevent throttling and dimming. It also frees up internal space for larger batteries with modern milling. 

10) Taking the Air’s battery marketing at face value 

Small batteries + thin frames = physics still wins. Apple even introduced a MagSafe battery pack specifically for the Air to stretch it to Pro-Max-class video playback—but it becomes thicker and heavier than a Pro Max once attached. 

11) Assuming prices broadly went up 

Many prices held, and base storage is better. For example, standard 17 now starts at 256GB—what used to cost extra. The Pro Max price stays the same while delivering bigger thermal and battery upgrades. 

 

 

Who Should Buy What? 

 

iPhone 17 Air 

For the design-driven crowd that values thinness and style over battery, charging speed, and sustained performance. Ideal for light use (texting, socials, shorts), not for gaming or pro workloads. 

 

iPhone 17 

The default choice for most people—and honestly, many tech fans too. It’s the closest the base model has ever been to a Pro: fast chip, 120Hz, brighter display, better battery, and 256GB base at the same price. Hard to go wrong. 

 

iPhone 17 Pro 

For creators and power users who want Pro cameras, fast USB-C, and sustained performance in a smaller body. Notably, its battery is now closer than ever to last year’s Pro Max, which is wild. 

 

iPhone 17 Pro Max 

For maximum battery and thermal headroom. If you live on your phone—gaming, 4K recording, pro apps—the Pro Max is the top pick. That’s my daily driver this year. 

 

 

Final Thoughts 

The iPhone 17 series is the most intriguing lineup in years because Apple fixed the thing that mattered most: heat. With unibody aluminum and proper cooling, you get more stable performance, less dimming, and better battery—improvements you’ll feel every single day. 
  • If you’re tempted by the 17 Pro Max, you’re not alone—it’s the battery + thermals combo that tips the scales. 
  • If you want a smaller device without giving up endurance, the 17 Pro is finally that phone. 
  • If you want great value at the standard tier, the 17 is the best base model Apple’s made. 
  • And if you’re here for thin, gorgeous hardware and light use, the 17 Air is your runway phone. 
Which one are you leaning toward? Drop your pick and what you’re upgrading from in the comments. If you enjoy deep dives and real-world tests, join the newsletter and I’ll send you the full battery and camera comparisons as soon as they’re live. 
 

ASUS TUF Gaming F16 (FX607) Review: Rugged Power Meets Gaming Precision

by | Jul 1, 2025 | Computer

Hey guys here’s a robust review of the ASUS TUF Gaming F16 (FX607)—covering its standout strengths, capabilities, and how it stacks up against the competition.

Image source: asus.com/sg/

 

Overview

The ASUS TUF Gaming F16 FX607 is a mid‑range gaming laptop built to deliver strong performance and reliability. Configured with up to:

  • Intel Core i7‑13650HX (6 P‑cores + 8 E‑cores, 55 W base TDP)

  • NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 (130 W TGP) or optional RTX 4050

  • High‑refresh 16″ IPS display (165 Hz FHD+ / 16 × 10)

  • Dual-channel DDR5 RAM and PCIe 4.0 SSDs

  • A large battery with USB‑C charging support

This blend targets gamers who need solid FPS, color-accurate screens for content creation, and a tough build—without breaking the bank.

 

Performance: Desktop-Class Power

CPU & GPU

  • The i7‑13650HX provides desktop-level multitasking with high single-thread and multi-core speeds.

  • RTX 4060 under a 130 W TGP handles modern AAA games smoothly at 1080p with high settings.

  • A MUX switch & NVIDIA Advanced Optimus allows direct dGPU output, reducing latency by up to ~8–10% FPS loss during gameplay

Cooling

  • Dual 84‑blade Arc Flow fans, 4 exhaust vents, and up to 5 copper heatpipes ensure sustained boost clocks with thermal headroom

  • In “Turbo” mode, performance peaks—but fan noise increases; “Performance” mode offers a quieter balance. Verdict: Excellent real-world gaming performance, rivaling pricier systems without throttling.

    Display & Visuals

    • A 16″ IPS panel with 165 Hz refresh, fast response, and over 95% sRGB coverage—floor for both immersive gaming and accurate photo/video work

    • The 16:10 aspect ratio provides more vertical real estate—great for productivity and immersion.

    • G-Sync support adds smoother visuals during gameplay

    Edge: Almost desktop-class panel quality at a mid-tier price, excellent for dual gamers/creators.

    Build Quality & Durability

    • MIL‑STD‑810H certified: withstands vibration, shock, altitude, and extreme temperature—built for rugged use.

    • Solid chassis design featuring plastic reinforced with metal and unyielding hinges.

    Edge: More durable than other budget gaming laptops that often cut corners on chassis quality.

    Upgradability & I/O

    • Two SODIMM slots + two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for easy RAM and SSD upgrades.

    • Versatile ports including HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4/USB‑C (DP 1.4 + 100 W PD), multiple USB‑A ports, RJ‑45 LAN, Kensington lock, and audio combo jack.

    Edge: A rare combination of strong upgradability and port variety in this segment.

    Battery Life & Mobility

    • ASUS claims an impressive 90 Wh battery (though some markets may have 56 Wh), delivering ~20 hours of web browsing in iGPU mode with panel power-saving features enabled.

    • Works with lightweight USB-C charging, enabling mobile productivity if you forget the bulky 240 Watts brick.

    Edge: Exceptional endurance for a gaming laptop, unmatched by most rivals.

    User Experience: Keyboard, Audio, Software

    • Comfortable, 7 mm travel backlit keyboard (with dedicated media keys) and spacious 128 × 76 mm touchpad.

    • Dolby Atmos + AI noise cancellation speakers/mic, ideal for gaming and content creation.

    • Armoury Crate centralizes performance/power profiles, lighting, fan control, with a “Panel Power Saver” toggle for battery mode.

    Edge: Polished input experience with thoughtful software offering system-level control.

    Where It Falls Short

    • Under full load, fans in “Turbo” mode can get loud & chassis warm.

    • Heavier and thicker than ultraportable gaming machines—though remains acceptable for desk‑based use.

    • Some misconfigurations ship with lower-tier CPUs (like Core i5‑12450H) and RTX 3050, but the i7 + RTX 4060 SKU is the sweet spot.

     

    Competitive Comparison

    How does the FX607 stack up against competitors?

    Competitor

    Strengths

    FX607 Advantages

    Lenovo Legion 5

    Sleek premium build, RTX 4070 variant

    Better upgradability, MIL‑STD durability, USB‑C PD, louder but more rugged

    HP Victus 16

    Lower cost entry‑level, similar display

    Superior build quality, stronger CPU, better cooling, upgradability

    Acer / Dell mid‑range

    Often better screens or aesthetics

    MUX switch, dual SSD+RAM slots, durability, battery life

    ROG Strix / Omen

    High-end models with RTX 4070–4080 series

    More affordable, quieter design, upgrades remain easy

    The TUF is worth the difference… Better build and display quality… larger capacity battery + stronger CPU. reddit.com

     

    Value & Pricing

    • Current deals show FX607 with i7‑13650HX + RTX 4060 + 16 GB DDR5 + 512 GB SSD under SGD 1,400–1,600 .

    • Configurations with RTX 4050 offer further savings (~$1,000), though performance scales accordingly.

    Edge: Best-in-class spec-to-price ratio—especially in RTX 4060 tier.

    Product Highlight

    The ASUS TUF Gaming F16 FX607 is a well-balanced gaming powerhouse, featuring an Intel Core i7-13650HX processor, RTX 4060 GPU, and a 16″ FHD+ 165Hz display. Priced at approximately SG$1,777.00 and available from the ASUS Store SG, it delivers strong performance across the board. With a solid 4.7★ rating, this model stands out for its rugged build quality, excellent screen, MUX switch, reliable battery life, and effective thermal management—making it a great choice for gamers who demand both power and durability.

    Final Verdict

    The ASUS TUF Gaming F16 FX607 is a standout gaming laptop that punches well above its price.

    Pros:

    • Near desktop gaming performance with RTX 4060 + i7‑13650HX

    • High-refresh, color‑accurate 16:10 panel

    • Rugged MIL‑STD build & excellent cooling

    • Dual‑slot RAM/SSD for future-proofing

    • Robust battery life with USB‑C charging

    Cons:

    • Noisy peak fans under heavy load

    • Slightly bulky/unwieldy for travel

    • Entry configs can underdeliver—opt for i7 + RTX 4060

    Compared to rivals, the FX607 wins on reliability, performance, and features, offering a more compelling package—especially for gamers who also need creator tools or want longevity.

    Recommendations

    • For gamers who also content-create: This is one of the top choices in the sub-SGD 1,900 bracket.

    • For portability-prioritized users: Consider thinner RTX laptops (e.g., Zephyrus G14) but understand you’ll sacrifice thermal headroom & repairability.

    • Looking for a future-proof rig: The FX607’s upgradable platform ensures a multi-year lifespan, even when gaming budgets tighten.

     

    Framework Laptop Review: The Modular Machine Built to Last

    by | Jun 23, 2025 | Computer

    Here is the Framework Laptop—highlighting its best features, specifications, pricing—with a summary and verdict at the end.

    Framework Laptop image used with attribution to Framework

     

     

    Introduction: The Modular Revolution

    The Framework Laptop stands apart in today’s laptop market by embracing modularity, repairability, and sustainability. Born from the right-to-repair movement, Framework’s mission is clear: empower users with full control over their devices. Whether it’s upgrading a component, replacing damaged parts, or customizing ports—you can easily DIY it yourself.

     

    Best Features

    Modular & Repairable Design

    Every major component—mainboard, RAM, storage, keyboard, trackpad, battery, ports, and even the screen—is user-replaceable. Framework publishes guides and sells individual parts, upholding its open-source ethos pcworld.com+9frame.work+9reddit.com+9theverge.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2theverge.com+2.

    Customizable Expansion Cards –

    Rather than fixed ports, Framework includes configurable expansion-card slots. You choose what ports you need—USB-C (with Thunderbolt/USB4), USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, microSD, Ethernet, headphone jack—swapping them as desired.

     

    DIY Edition – Choose a barebones chassis at a reduced price and install components yourself. Ideal for tinkerers or budget-conscious users looking to upgrade later frame.work+15frame.work+15reddit.com+15.

     

    Future-Proof Upgrades – Need a more powerful CPU or upgraded GPU? Framework’s swappable mainboards make it possible—across generations, even cross-CPU-line (e.g., Intel to AMD) community.frame.work+13en.wikipedia.org+13theverge.com+13.

     

    Sustainability Commitment – Framework’s ecosystem extends beyond hardware—it includes firmware openness (coreboot/UEFI) and community development. The company actively refurbishes and sells “factory seconds” to reduce waste .

     

    Models & Specifications

    Framework Laptop 13 (2025)

    • CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (12-core AI-centric)
    • Memory: Up to 96 GB DDR5‑5600
    • Display: 13.5″, 2880×1920, 120Hz matte panel
    • Graphics: Integrated RDNA3 or discrete GPU via Expansion Bay
    • Ports: 4 user-swappable expansion slots + combo audio jack
    • Connectivity: Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
    • Webcam: 1080p with privacy LED and hardware kill-switch
    • Battery: 61 Wh
    • Weight: ~1.36 kg (3 lb) laptopmag.com+10pcworld.com+10fr.wikipedia.org+10en.wikipedia.org

     

    Framework Laptop 12

    • Type: 12.2″ convertible touchscreen 2-in-1
    • CPU: 13th Gen Intel Core i3/i5
    • Memory/Storage: Upgradeable via single SO-DIMM and M.2 slot
    • Display: 1920×1200, stylus-compatible, 360° hinge
    • Durability: Shock-absorbing TPU chassis, MIL‑STD‑810 rated pcworld.com+4theverge.com+4frame.work+4frame.work+1wired.com+1

     

    Framework Laptop 16

     

    Framework Laptop image used with attribution to Framework

     

    Performance Overview

    Framework Laptop 13

    With Ryzen AI 5/7/9 CPUs, this model delivers competitive performance in productivity and light creative workloads. The discrete GPU bay adds flexibility for heavier tasks wired.com+3theverge.com+3pcworld.com+3.

    Reviewers noted strong multi-core performance but modest single-core results. Battery life ranged from 7.5 to 11 hours, lagging behind MacBook Air, but still adequate wired.com.

    Framework Laptop 12

    Optimized for light use—web, documents, education. Convertible functionality and screen repairability are its core strengths wired.com+4theverge.com+4wired.com+4.

    Framework Laptop 16

    Powered by Ryzen 7040HS, it offers desktop-like performance with great efficiency and integrated graphics. Modular GPU support further enhances its capabilities frame.work.

    Framework Laptop image used with attribution to Framework

     

     

    Pricing

    Framework’s transparent pricing model offers configurations at two levels:

    Framework Laptop 13

    Models:

    Framework Laptop 12

    • Starts at US $799 for assembled units
    • DIY Edition: From US $549 frame.work

    Framework Laptop 16

    Pricing aligns with premium Ryzen HS performance and modular GPU support—expect US $1,200+ depending on specs .

     

    Pros & Cons

    ✅ Pros

    • Truly modular and repairable—parts available and upgradeable
    • Customizable port layout to suit your use
    • DIY edition reduces entry cost and appeals to tinkerers
    • Swappable mainboards enable CPU upgrades across generations
    • Strong sustainability message, refurbishing, and open firmware

    ⚠️ Cons

    • Premium pricing compared with sealed competitors
    • Older peripherals (webcam, keyboard) can feel dated
    • Battery life trails behind leading ultrabooks
    • Performance modest in entry CPU options (e.g., i3, Ryzen 7040U)

     

    Summary

    The Framework Laptop is a bold step forward for user empowerment in computing. It bucks the sealed, disposable model by offering full component access, part-level support, and upgrade paths spanning beyond typical warranty periods. The expansion card architecture lets you truly personalize your machine.

    Whether it’s the ultraportable Laptop 12, the balanced Laptop 13, or the powerful Laptop 16, Framework nails the ethos of sustainability and flexibility—though often at a cost premium and with some older hardware quirks.

     

    Verdict: Should You Buy It?

    Yes, if you:

    • Value repairability and component-level upgrades
    • Want a laptop that can evolve (CPU, RAM, ports, storage)
    • Care about sustainability and reducing e-waste
    • Enjoy customizing hardware and DIY builds

    Maybe consider alternatives if you:

    • Prioritize top-tier performance per dollar (e.g., MacBook Air, XPS 13)
    • Need long battery life or premium media features
    • Prefer a truly sealed, maintenance-free notebook

     

    Final Recommendation

    For tech enthusiasts, longevity-focused professionals, and those tired of throwaway electronics, the Framework Laptop is a groundbreaking choice. It’s not for everyone—its strength lies in modularity rather than maximum specs. If your top goals are flame graphics benchmarks or all-day battery life, other laptops may serve you better. But if you want a tool that lasts, you can fix, and you can future-proof—Framework stands almost alone.

    🧾 TL;DR:

    • What it is: Fully modular, repairable, customizable laptop (12″, 13″, 16″ sizes)
    • Price: DIY from $549–899; prebuilt from $799–1,829
    • Specs: Up to Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (12-core), 96 GB RAM, 120Hz QHD+ display, swappable GPU
    • Best for: Tech-savvy users, DIYers, sustainability advocates
    • Not ideal for: Those needing max perf, long battery life, or sealed convenience

     

    Check this out for the comparison to other laptops in your budget, or help configuring a Framework build?

    Here’s a detailed comparison between the Framework Laptop and its competitors from Lenovo and Asus, focusing on similar premium thin-and-light or modular models. This helps determine which one is the best fit based on upgradeability, performance, value, and purpose.

    Comparison Table

    Feature Framework Laptop 13 Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 Asus ZenBook 14 OLED (UX3405)
    CPU Up to AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 or Intel Core Ultra 7 Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
    RAM Up to 96 GB (upgradeable SO-DIMM) Up to 64 GB (soldered) 32 GB LPDDR5X (soldered)
    Storage M.2 NVMe SSD (user upgradeable) M.2 NVMe SSD (upgradeable) M.2 NVMe SSD (upgradeable)
    Display 13.5″, 2880×1920, 120Hz 14″, 2.8K OLED or WUXGA LCD 14″, 2.8K OLED, 120Hz
    GPU Integrated RDNA3 or optional eGPU module Integrated only (Intel Arc) Integrated only (Intel Arc)
    Ports 4 swappable expansion cards 2× Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI 2× Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI
    Battery 61 Wh 57–65 Wh 75 Wh
    Weight ~1.36 kg ~1.09 kg ~1.20 kg
    Repairability Excellent (fully modular) Moderate (some parts replaceable) Limited (non-modular)
    Price (USD) $899–$1,829 $1,600–$2,200 $1,300–$1,700

     

    Breakdown

    🔧 Upgradeability & Repairability

    • Framework Laptop dominates here. Everything from the mainboard to ports and even the screen is user-replaceable or upgradeable.
    • ThinkPad X1 Carbon allows SSD replacement, but RAM is soldered. Battery, keyboard, and screen replacements are possible but harder.
    • ZenBook 14 OLED has soldered RAM, sealed chassis, and limited serviceability.

    Winner: 🥇 Framework Laptop

     

    Performance

    All three offer Intel Core Ultra CPUs (or AMD Ryzen AI in Framework). Performance is comparable in productivity tasks.

    However:

    • Framework offers up to 96 GB RAM and optional GPU expansion (on the 16″ model), making it better for devs, creators, or engineers.
    • Lenovo and Asus use faster LPDDR5X RAM (though not upgradable), better for quick access but less flexible.

    Winner: Tie — depends on your use case.
    For raw flexibility and RAM ceiling: Framework.
    For speed out-of-box: Asus/Lenovo.

     

    Display Quality

    • ZenBook 14 OLED and ThinkPad X1 Carbon OLED variant both have stunning 2.8K OLED panels with deep blacks and vibrant colors.
    • Framework has a high-res 3:2 matte display (2880×1920) at 120 Hz—great for productivity, less eye-catching than OLED.

    Winner: 🥇 Asus ZenBook 14 OLED (for media)
    Framework wins for aspect ratio and matte workspace if you’re not after OLED glamor.

     

    Battery Life

    • ZenBook 14 OLED typically lasts 12–13 hours (larger battery, efficient screen).
    • ThinkPad X1 Carbon also achieves 10–12 hours depending on config.
    • Framework Laptop gets 7.5–9 hours in mixed use, which is decent but not best-in-class.

    Winner: 🥇 Asus ZenBook

     

     Build & Design

    • ThinkPad X1 Carbon is incredibly thin and light, built with carbon fiber—legendary durability and portability.
    • ZenBook feels premium with its metal unibody and sleek design.
    • Framework is solid but slightly heavier due to modularity. Slightly chunkier chassis.

    Winner: 🥇 ThinkPad X1 Carbon (for business)
    ZenBook also strong contender for elegance.

     

    Value for Money

    • Framework Laptop DIY Edition starts at $899—you add your own RAM and storage.
    • ZenBook offers a complete premium package for ~$1,300.
    • ThinkPad X1 Carbon tends to be most expensive, but with great support and enterprise features.

    Winner: Depends on needs
    Want flexibility & future-proofing: Framework
    All-in-one premium feel: ZenBook

     

    Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?

    Use Case Best Choice
    Modular, upgradeable, future-proof laptop Framework Laptop
    Lightweight business ultrabook with enterprise features ThinkPad X1 Carbon
    Media consumption, lightweight premium design Asus ZenBook 14 OLED

     

    🟢 Final Thoughts

    The Framework Laptop isn’t for everyone—but for tech-savvy users, developers, and sustainability-minded buyers, it’s unmatched. It’s not just a laptop—it’s a long-term computing platform.

    • Buy Framework if you want to own your laptop—tinker, upgrade, and repair on your terms.
    • Choose ThinkPad if you want a rock-solid business laptop with excellent support.
    • Pick ZenBook if you want a beautiful OLED screen in a slim, fast package with no intention of opening the chassis.

    Aftershock X‑16 PRO Review: Built for Gamers, Designed for Professionals

    by | Jun 19, 2025 | Computer

    Check this out. Here’s a comprehensive review of the Aftershock X‑16 PRO, covering its design, performance, display, thermals, battery life, keyboard, and overall value.

     

     

    🖥️ Design & Build Quality

    The X‑16 PRO features a premium all-aluminium chassis that feels robust—“built like a tank” according to one user—while maintaining an understated, minimalist look suited for both gaming and professional settings youtube.com+15reddit.com+15canbuyornot.com+15aftershockpc.com.au. Available in configurations up to Intel’s 24-core Core Ultra 9 275HX and NVIDIA’s RTX 5090, it delivers desktop-grade power in a notebook form aftershockpc.com.au+2aftershockpc.com.au+2reddit.com+2.

     

    🌈 Display

    A standout feature is its 16″ 2560×1600 Mini‑LED panel, offering up to 300 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness reaching 1,200 nits on higher-end variants aftershockpc.com.au+1tiktok.com+1. Reddit users rave about the display, calling it “gorgeous and super bright,” though noting minor limitations in local dimming performance reddit.com+1canbuyornot.com+1.

     

    ⚙️ Performance

    The base configuration pairs the Core Ultra 9 275HX with the RTX 5070 Ti, scaling up to RTX 5090 on premium models. Users report strong thermals and stable performance:

    The laptop supports optional closed‑loop water cooling (“glacier module”) for improved thermals, quieter operation, and potential clock boosts when docked aftershockpc.com.au.

     

    🔋 Battery Life & Power

    Equipped with a 99 Wh battery, the laptop delivers 3–4 hours of general use on battery with reduced brightness and GPU power reddit.com. While gaming or heavy workloads significantly reduce longevity, this runtime aligns with expectations for a high-performance gaming system.

     

    🎧 Keyboard & Input

    The full-size RGB membrane keyboard includes a numpad and features per-key RGB, anti-ghosting, and N‑Key rollover. Built for a responsive, quiet typing experience, it scores highly for both efficiency and comfort tiktok.com+8aftershockpc.com.au+8tiktok.com+8.

     

    🎙️ Speakers

    While adequate for everyday tasks and media consumption, the speakers are average—similar to most gaming laptops reddit.com.

     

    🚨 BIOS & Undervolting

    One limitation is limited BIOS support—users are unable to undervolt the CPU reddit.com+1aftershockpc.com.au+1. This may affect enthusiasts seeking deeper thermal and power optimization.

     

    🧊 Thermals & Cooling

    In Overboost mode, core temperatures hover in the high 80s to low 90s °C. The optional water-cooling module significantly improves cooling efficiency and fan noise—an attractive option for power users reddit.com.

     

    🔄 Unique Features

    • Mux switch support adds control over routing between GPU and integrated graphics .
    • Thunderbolt 4 port connects directly to the dGPU for external display adapter use reddit.com.
    • No G‑Sync support, but the high-refresh panel compensates reddit.com.

     

    ✅ Pros & Cons

    ✅ Pros ⚠️ Cons
    Sturdy and premium build Limited BIOS undervolt control
    Exceptional Mini‑LED display Poor battery life under load
    Desktop-class performance with RTX 50-series Local dimming could be better
    Optional water cooling support Speakers are only average
    Good keyboard (RGB, N-key)

     

    🏆 Verdict

    The Aftershock X‑16 PRO is an elite gaming laptop for those desiring desktop-level performance in a portable package. Its stunning Mini‑LED display, premium build, and powerful RTX 50-series GPUs make it ideal for gamers, creators, and professionals. While limitations like BIOS undervolting and moderate battery life exist, the core strengths far outweigh the drawbacks—especially with optional water cooling and the presence of a Mux switch.

     

    📦 Model Variants & Pricing

    Here are the key configurations available:

    Entry‑high performance – $3,050.00

    Aftershock X‑16 PRO – Core U9 275HX + RTX 5070 Ti

     

    Flagship desktop‑class power – $5,299.00

    Aftershock X‑16 PRO – Core U9 275HX + RTX 5090

     

    Ask about this

    • Aftershock X‑16 PRO (RTX 5070 Ti) – Balanced performer with excellent display and build at ~S$4,000–4,500 in Singapore, offering solid thermals and near-peak capabilities.
    • Aftershock X‑16 PRO (RTX 5090) – Ultimate flagship model targeting users wanting the best mobile graphics available today.

     

    📣 Reddit Feedback

    “The mini‑LED display is gorgeous and super bright…” viascreens.com+7reddit.com+7aftershockpc.com.au+7
    “Built like a tank, with aluminium everywhere.” reddit.com

     

    🔧 Should You Buy It?

    Get the X‑16 PRO if you:

    • Prioritize top-tier gaming/creator performance.
    • Want a high‑end Mini‑LED display with 300 Hz refresh.
    • Appreciate a solid, stealthy metal build and premium keyboard.
    • Might use or want optional water cooling for better thermals and noise control.

     

    Consider other models if you:

    • Require long battery life for on-the-go work.
    • Are an enthusiast who values deep undervolting control (limited BIOS).
    • Want lighter portability—this weighs around 2.8 kg (~6.2 lbs).

     

    Final Score

    • Build & Design: 9.5/10
    • Display: 9.7/10
    • Performance: 9.6/10
    • Thermals/Noise: 8.5/10 (better with water module)
    • Battery Life: 7.0/10
    • Keyboard & Input: 9.0/10
    • Speakers: 7.5/10