Framework’s new sub-$500 modular laptop has no RAM, memory or operating system

is all about upgradeable modular laptops, and now the company is offering people a more cost-effective entry point. It has reduced the price of its B-stock Factory Seconds systems (which are built with surplus parts and new components). As such it is Framework Laptop 13 barebone configuration for under $500 for the first time.

The 13-inch machine comes with an 11th generation Intel Core i7 processor with Iris Xe graphics. So the CPU should be enough for most basic tasks and some moderate gaming. Here’s the catch: Frameworks’ barebones laptops don’t include RAM, storage, Wi-Fi connectivity, a power adapter, or even an operating system.

Tinkerers (ie the people who would probably be most interested in playing around with a Framework system) will probably have some spare parts. You can purchase any other components you may need from the Framework Marketplace. To that end, Framework says it’s selling refurbished DDR4 memory for half the price of new.

Another thing worth noting is that Framework’s B-stock systems have the original display with “slight cosmetic issues.” The company notes that these can range from things like fine lines that can be seen from a certain angle, or a lack of uniform backlighting that can be seen on a white screen. A-stock systems have a matte display, but are slightly more expensive. Factory Seconds laptops are currently available in the US, Canada and Australia.