Modder builds DIY gaming handheld with Framework laptop motherboard

DIY gaming handhelds are becoming more and more popular. Recently, a modder transformed the original Xbox into a functional gaming handheld, and now another modder, Beth Le, has built a handheld using a Framework motherboard. Beth isn't the first to do it, however, as TommyB created something similar back in March of this year.

However, Beth Le's attempt looks more polished than TommyB's Framework gaming handheld. Called Beth Deck, it is said to be easy to build as well. More specifically, Beth says you can construct the whole thing in just 15 minutes, sticking true to Framework's core principle.

As for the hardware inside, the Beth Deck has a 13-inch laptop mainboard. Framework has multiple options listed in its store, with the one featuring the 11th Gen Core i7 1165G7 currently going for only $299. However, it would be a good idea to get an AMD 7040 series board if you're planning to build something that can offer comparable performance to ROG Ally or Legion Go (curr. $499 on Amazon).

This DIY gaming handheld also relies on the 13-inch Framework battery, which means the battery life will be comparable to the laptop. There are other parts involved, including an 8-inch touchscreen and a USB-C dongle with multiple ports. For the controller button aspect, Beth repurposed a mobile gaming controller.

You would also need 3D-printed parts, which Beth has listed on the project page. While all these sound great, like most DIY projects, this one has its flaws. For example, the battery inside the gaming handheld can overheat due to the lack of airflow on that specific area of the chassis. However, Beth notes that the issue will be fixed in the second revision of the project.