Building a DIY Framework laptop | part 3 | Installing Windows

For those not familiar with Framework, they are a company committed to making consumer electronics that are upgradeable, customisable and repairable. So as we needed a new Windows computer, and we felt Framework’s goals should be supported, we decided to try and build an 11th Generation Intel Framework laptop. 

In the third of four videos, we document the journey we took to built a Framework DIY Edition laptop. So in this video we create a Windows 11 installation drive, and install Windows onto our new computer. Then because we had a few issues with the fan, WiFi and battery. We run through the measures we took to fix them.

Please note that this is not a sponsored video, so if you are looking to build your own Framework laptop, using the following affiliate links will help towards our production costs.

Components used in the build our Framework laptop:

• Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2
• Crucial RAM CT8G4SFRA32A 8GB DDR4 3200MHz CL22
• Windows 11 License
• Anker USB C Hub PowerExpand 6-in-1
• DataTraveler 100 G3 USB flash drive

Note: You might be able to find a copy of Windows which is far cheaper than the prices listed by Framework or Microsoft. For example in the UK you can buy a CD copy of Windows 11 Home or Pro, more cheaply than the price listed on the Microsoft website. 

However purchasing a Windows license key is fraught with issues, and EU rules are different with regards to the resale of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacture) and unused licensed software, too that of other places in the world. So if you are unsure buy your copy of Windows directly from either Microsoft or Framework.

Alternative Linux Operating Systems to use

As Windows is not the only operating system you can install on a Framework laptop. If you are on a limited budget seriously consider using Linux. The following are a list of of our favourite Linux distributions. 

• ElementaryOS
• Ubuntu
• Mint
• Pop!OS

Note: While ChromeOS Flex will run and install on a Framework laptop. At the time of posting this video, a AX210 wireless card is currently not compatible with ChromeOS Flex. So if you are looking to use ChromeOS with your Framework laptop, you should purchase an official ChromeOS Framework laptop, or check that Flex supports the AX210. 

Software used in the build

• Rufus – Create bootable USB drives the easy way
• Microsoft Windows 11

Reference materials:

• Framework website
• Framework Knowledge Base
• Framework Laptop BIOS and Driver Release (11th Gen Intel Core) 
• Framework Laptop BIOS and Driver Release (12th Gen Intel Core)
• Tech Adviser article – Do cheap Windows keys work?