Framework Laptop 13 Shell now available for $399 for AMD, Intel and RISC-V processors

Earlier this week, Framework finally began selling its long-awaited RISC-V Mainboard with a StarFive JH7100 processor. For reference, while the company's RISC-V Mainboard is much cheaper than those it sells with AMD or Intel processors, Waveshare provides the same RISC-V platform at almost half the price.

Framework is also now selling the Framework Laptop 13 Shell, which it describes in the following terms:

This is a complete Framework Laptop 13 chassis with everything except for the Mainboard, memory, storage, and Wi-Fi.

Specifically, the shell includes not just the chassis itself, but also a 55 Wh battery, a display and a keyboard, among other ancillary components. The price of this package is currently $399, or about twice the price of its RISC-V Mainboard.

By contrast, current-generation AMD and Intel Mainboards retail for at least $400. As a result, Framework primarily sells the shell kit for those that have a surplus mainboard. With that being said, the Framework Laptop 13 shell could be a good option for those who have the chance to pick up a second-hand Mainboard cheaply. Please see Framework's website for more details.