TheFramework 13is in a place where it can shine as more than an idealistic novelty.
Frameworks build quality has improved sinceits original laptops.
The bezels and keyboard snap onto the frame with magnets, rather than any adhesive.
© Kyle Barr / Gizmodo
Theres a tangibility to the Framework 13.
Its like a Lego set.
Take into account the expansion cards and a power adapter and my unit would cost around $1,680.
© Kyle Barr / Gizmodo
That price is also ignoring the Windows license, which will set you back another $140.
Framework recommends Fedora 41.
Theres one caveat to this customizability.
© Kyle Barr / Gizmodo
You simply cant expect the same performance for the price as you would for other laptops.
Besides, at $1,600, you could grab a rig with a discrete GPU.
Both those laptops have RAM soldered on, so the choice is between overt performance or upgradability.
© Kyle Barr / Gizmodo
I cant blame anybody who opts for more juice.
Sometimes, a keyboard and trackpad make all the difference.
The Framework 13s 1.5 mm depth and sturdy keys offered an excellent typing experience.
© Kyle Barr / Gizmodo
Framework has also done more work to the systems thermals this go around.
Even when connected to an outlet and running benchmarks, the fans never became so loud they were distracting.
It even got toasty when using a single web app with a dozen tabs.
There are other aspects to this laptop that are just middling.
Its built-in webcam offers grainy, low-res video especially in low light.
However, the modularity and customizability more than make up for it.
Its enough I wish Framework went further with it and offered more outlandish color options.
Thats a shame because now all I want is a gear full of translucent components.
Its enough to make me wonder why Framework doesnt have more frame color options for its 13-inch and16-inch models.
Frameworks devices seem the perfect place to promote ostentatious color choices and materials you simply cant get elsewhere.
Thats why Imintrigued by the Framework 12 2-in-1 laptopwith its touchscreen and cool pastel colors.
But thats the price you pay for modularity.
And Frameworks modular design has had an impact.
More laptops like theAsus ROG Strix Scar for 2025now sport tool-less carapaces to let you access battery and RAM.
Even if Frameworks devices are too expensive, its a good thing the company exists in the first place.
News from the future, delivered to your present.
However, some of our most-anticipated tech for the month won’t arrive until April.
Bless the Modder Who Is Fixing AMDs Newest GPUs
Modders FTW!
