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I mean, can't you just use the laptop?

I see the value proposition that this has in the particular case of Framework where you update certain parts, but the vast majority of laptops cannot have any change beside the RAM (if you're lucky) and the storage (same).

So in those situations, the best PC case is the one you already have: the laptop.



> I mean, can't you just use the laptop?

The idea is that you have a spare mainboard laying around if you've upgraded. A cheap $40 case is a great way of putting that hardware to use.


Yes, which is why I said it makes sense for Framework but not for other constructors where you can't upgrade the board but keep the shell...


It would make a lot of sense for a lot of others as well... Screens crack, keyboard keys pop off, batteries wear out. People will generally upgrade to a new laptop at that point. Being able to repurpose the compute/ram/storage in a stand-alone case is a great option for many old laptops.

And while many may not want the hassle, there's plenty of value for a home server with an external storage drive for a lot of people.


But then you'd need a new case for your new computer. The CoolerMaster case answers the question "how can I make use of this board I replaced?"


This is also good for people like me who have plenty of laptop ram and SSDs we can’t do anything with. I’ll be checking out the AMD main boards!

Also, don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. Framework have basically given us what we’ve always wanted in a laptop. Just say thanks and buy one the next time you need a laptop.


Definitely plan to do so myself. Would be cool to see 3D case options for other laptop MBs... too many go to waste when the screens, keyboards or batteries die. IF one can just transplant to a case, at least get some new life. Though really need to see better work for battery recovery/recycling... The existing infrastructure for e-waste doesn't do a good job at all, mostly gets dumped in someone else's backyard instead of your own.


I have a cheap laptop with a broken case and a flaky screen. Repurposing it as a desktop pc with a small case like this would be really nice.


It's just another option, you can use the laptop, or repurpose that mainboard after an upgrade and keep the screen/etc.




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