The Framework Laptop is a fully modular, repairable notebook that allows users to swap ports, upgrade internal components, and replace parts to extend the device’s lifespan.
Most modern laptops are sealed shut with glue and soldered components. If one part breaks or becomes obsolete, you usually have to replace the entire machine. The Framework Laptop changes this logic entirely. It prioritizes longevity and user control without sacrificing performance.
This approach allows you to customize the ports on the side of the machine, replace the battery yourself, and even swap out the mainboard for a newer generation processor years down the line. For tech enthusiasts and eco-conscious buyers, this level of control is a major shift in how we own hardware.
What Makes The Framework Laptop Different
The core philosophy of Framework is repairability and modularity. Unlike competitors that discourage opening the chassis, Framework encourages it. The laptop ships with the exact screwdriver you need to take it apart.
Modular Port System: You do not have to settle for the ports the manufacturer chose. The laptop features four (or six on the 16-inch model) recessed bays called Expansion Cards. You can slide in a USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, or MicroSD card reader depending on what you need that day.
Repairable Components: Every part inside the machine has a QR code. scanning this code takes you directly to a guide on how to replace it and a link to buy the spare part. This includes the screen, keyboard, battery, and bezel.
Mainboard Upgrades: This is the distinct advantage. When a new processor generation comes out (like moving from Intel 13th Gen to Core Ultra, or switching to AMD), you can buy just the mainboard. You keep your screen, chassis, and keyboard, effectively getting a new computer for a fraction of the cost.
Detailed Guide To Framework Laptop Models
Framework currently offers two main form factors. Choosing the right one depends on your portability needs and performance requirements.
The Framework Laptop 13
This is the original ultraportable model. It competes directly with the MacBook Air and Dell XPS 13. It is lightweight, compact, and designed for general productivity, coding, and office work.
- Screen: 13.5-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is excellent for reading code or documents.
- Chassis: Milled aluminum housing that feels premium and sturdy.
- Configurability: Available with various Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors.
The Framework Laptop 16
This model targets power users, gamers, and creators. It is significantly larger and introduces a new Expansion Bay system at the back of the device.
- Graphics: The Expansion Bay allows you to insert a discrete graphics module (GPU). You can upgrade graphics performance later, a rarity in laptops.
- Input Deck: The keyboard and trackpad area is modular. You can shift the keyboard to the center or side, add a number pad, or insert LED matrix spacers.
- Thermal Headroom: The larger chassis allows for better cooling, sustaining higher performance for compiling code or rendering video.
Understanding The Expansion Card System
The Expansion Card system solves the “dongle hell” problem many laptop users face. Instead of carrying a bag of adapters, you configure the laptop chassis to fit your workflow.
Universal Interface: The internal slots connect via USB-C (Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 protocols depending on the processor). The cards sit flush with the laptop body.
Available Options:
- USB-C: Supports charging and high-speed data transfer.
- USB-A: Essential for legacy peripherals like mice and thumb drives.
- Video Output: HDMI (2.0b) and DisplayPort (1.4) cards are available for connecting monitors.
- Storage: You can insert 250GB or 1TB Expansion Cards to act as fast, semi-permanent external drives.
- Ethernet: A slightly protruding card provides a 2.5Gbe RJ45 jack for wired networking.
Switching On The Fly: You do not need to turn off the laptop to swap cards. If you are heading into a presentation, you can pop out a USB-A card and slide in an HDMI card in seconds.
Comparison: Framework 13 vs Framework 16
To help you decide which chassis fits your specific workflow, here is a direct comparison of the key specifications.
| Feature | Framework 13 | Framework 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 13.5″ (2256×1504) 60Hz/120Hz | 16″ (2560×1600) 165Hz VRR |
| Discrete GPU | No (eGPU via USB-C only) | Yes (Modular Expansion Bay) |
| Expansion Slots | 4 Slots | 6 Slots |
| Weight | 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs) | 2.1 – 2.4 kg (4.6 – 5.3 lbs) |
| Input Customization | Fixed Keyboard Layout | Hot-swappable Input Modules |
DIY Edition vs Pre-Built: Which To Buy?
Framework sells their laptops in two configurations. The hardware is identical, but the assembly and software experience differ greatly.
The Pre-Built Option
This arrives like any standard laptop. It comes fully assembled with Windows installed and drivers ready to go. You open the box, press the power button, and start working. This is the best choice if you are buying for a business or simply want a working machine immediately.
The DIY Edition
This version offers significant savings and customization. The laptop arrives with the memory, storage, and operating system separate (or omitted entirely if you choose “Bring Your Own”).
Installation Process: Putting it together is straightforward. You use the included tool to loosen five fasteners on the bottom cover. The keyboard deck lifts off magnetically. You slot in your RAM sticks and NVMe SSD, then close it up.
OS Flexibility: The DIY edition is ideal for Linux users. You save money by not paying for a Windows license you do not need. Framework hardware is officially supported by several Linux distributions, providing a stable experience out of the box.
Operating System Support And Drivers
Hardware modularity requires robust software support. Framework actively maintains BIOS updates and driver packs for multiple operating systems.
Windows 11 Experience
On Windows, Framework provides a single “Driver Bundle” installer. You run one executable file, and it installs every driver for the chipset, Wi-Fi, and fingerprint reader. This eliminates the tedious process of hunting down individual drivers in Device Manager.
Linux Compatibility
The laptop is highly regarded in the open-source community. Distributions like Fedora and Ubuntu work exceptionally well. Framework’s Linux compatibility page offers specific guides for setting up fingerprint readers and optimizing battery life for these systems.
Quick tip: If you install Linux, verify your specific expansion cards. Some HDMI or DisplayPort cards may require specific kernel parameters on older distributions to function at maximum refresh rates.
Repairability And Upgrading The Mainboard
The defining feature of this ecosystem is the ability to upgrade the processor without throwing away the chassis. This process is known as a Mainboard swap.
How The Swap Works
When you feel your laptop is getting slow, perhaps after three or four years, you purchase a new Mainboard from the Framework Marketplace. The swap takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Disconnect cables: You open the chassis and unplug the battery, display, webcam, and audio cables.
- Remove screws: There are five main screws holding the board in place.
- Swap and Reboot: You lift out the old board, place the new one in, and reconnect the cables.
Reusing The Old Part: You do not need to throw the old Mainboard away. Framework offers a 3D-printable case design (and sells a transparent case) that turns the old Mainboard into a standalone desktop PC. You can use it as a media server or a home PC for a family member.
Battery Life And Display Performance
While modularity is great, the laptop must perform well as a daily driver. The display and battery are critical components of that experience.
Screen Quality: The 13.5-inch panel is bright, hitting over 400 nits. The 3:2 aspect ratio offers more vertical space than standard 16:9 screens, which reduces scrolling when browsing websites or writing documents. The matte finish handles glare well in office environments.
Battery Expectations: Early generations of the Framework Laptop struggled with high battery drain during sleep. However, the latest AMD Ryzen 7040 Series and Intel Core Ultra models have significantly improved efficiency. Users can generally expect a full work day (8-10 hours) of mixed usage on the 13-inch model. The 16-inch model varies heavily based on whether the discrete GPU is in use.
Keyboard And Input Experience
The input devices are often a point of failure on thin laptops. On the Framework, they are user-replaceable and excellent to type on.
Key Travel: The keys have 1.5mm of travel, which is deeper than many modern ultrabooks. The tactile feel is crisp and responsive, making it suitable for long typing sessions.
Bezel Customization: The bezel around the screen attaches magnetically. You can pull it off and replace it with a different color (orange, green, red, etc.) to personalize the look of the machine without using stickers or skins.
Is The Framework Laptop Right For You?
Buying a Framework Laptop is an investment in a different kind of ownership model. It might not be for everyone, but for specific users, it is the only logical choice.
Who Should Buy It
Tech Enthusiasts: If you enjoy tinkering with hardware or want the latest ports without buying a new machine, this is for you.
Right-to-Repair Advocates: Your purchase supports a company actively fighting against planned obsolescence. The iFixit repairability scores for Framework devices are consistently a perfect 10/10, confirming their commitment to easy maintenance.
Linux Users: The hardware compatibility and community support for Linux are superior to almost any other consumer laptop brand.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Budget Buyers: The entry price for a Framework is higher than a standard budget laptop from Acer or HP. You pay a premium for the engineering that allows modularity.
Aesthetics-First Users: While the aluminum chassis is nice, it is utilitarian. It lacks the seamless, single-block feel of a MacBook Air because it is held together by screws, not glue.
Pricing And Value Proposition
When evaluating the price, you must consider the “total cost of ownership” rather than just the sticker price. A standard laptop usually lasts 3-5 years before the battery degrades or the CPU feels slow, at which point you buy a whole new $1000+ machine.
With a Framework, you might spend $400 on a new mainboard or $50 on a new battery to get that same “new computer” performance. Over a 7-8 year period, the Framework often works out to be cheaper than buying two separate premium laptops.
The DIY edition also allows you to hunt for deals on RAM and storage separately. SSD prices fluctuate, and buying your own drive from Amazon or Newegg is often much cheaper than paying the manufacturer markup for storage upgrades.
Getting Started With Setup
Once you have your Framework Laptop, the setup process is simple but differs slightly depending on your edition.
BIOS Updates: Check the Framework knowledge base immediately. Even new units might have a BIOS update available that improves sleep battery life or fan curves. Updating this first ensures the smoothest experience.
Expansion Card Layout: Place your USB-C cards (for charging) on the side where you usually plug in your power adapter. You can move them anytime, but having a dedicated charging port location builds muscle memory.
Fingerprint Reader: The power button doubles as a fingerprint reader. On Windows, this works with Windows Hello. On Linux, you may need to run a specific terminal command to enable the sensor, depending on your distro.
The Framework Laptop represents a shift toward sustainable, user-controlled technology. By choosing a device you can repair and upgrade, you reduce e-waste and ensure your hardware adapts to your needs, rather than forcing you to adapt to its limitations.