Framework's 10G Ethernet module exposes USB-C's complexity
3 hours ago
- WisdPi’s 10G Ethernet module for Framework laptops uses USB-C, which can bottleneck performance due to USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 requirements.
- On Framework 13 with AMD Ryzen, real-world speeds max at ~9.4 Gbps on Windows 11, while Linux performs slightly worse despite USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support on ports 1 and 3.
- The RTL8159 chip is bottlenecked on USB4 and USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 connections, capping bandwidth under 8 Gbps.
- Framework 12 with Intel CPU showed USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 in Windows, reaching 9.4+ Gbps, but Linux had driver issues and only achieved 7 Gbps.
- Bidirectional tests caused the module to reach ~70°C, risking Toasted Skin Syndrome; WisdPi claims compliance with IEC 62368-1 safety limits.
- Recommendation: Use the $40 2.5 Gbps Ethernet card for most users; choose the $99 WisdPi 10G card only if faster speeds are essential and external dongles are avoided.
- The 10G module is out of stock as of writing.