Post by account_disabled on Sept 10, 2023 5:21:08 GMT -5
Review: This is a product that implements a laptop design that can be truly repaired and upgraded, as well as replaceable ports. The nice display and powerful processor also attract attention.
ⓒ Brendan Nystedt/IDG
As of 2023, the situation in the Phone Number List laptop sector is somewhat pessimistic. People who value flashy design and light weight more than functionality are flocking to products that are virtually impossible to repair or upgrade. This is why Framework Laptop 13 feels even more special.
It is a product of a small startup that aims to create a laptop that users can trust and use for a long period of time. While most laptops are Shein's fast fashion, Framework's products are oriented toward American Giant hoodies. In other words, although it is not the cheapest product, it aims to be a laptop that can be used for a long time.
For this purpose, a screwdriver is included with the framework product. It supports a unique modular port system that can be exchanged and changed as needed. RAM and SSDs can also be swapped out with universal components in minutes, without the need to solder new chips to the motherboard. So, overall, is this product really a good laptop? Let’s find out together.
Reviewed product specifications
The product reviewed this time is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1360P CPU, Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD. More detailed specifications are as follows.
CPU: Intel Core i7-1360P (12 cores, 16 threads, 4 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores)
Memory: 16GB LPDDR5 (2 x 8GB SODIMM, user upgradeable)
Graphics/GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Display: 13.5 inches 2356×1504 3:3 matte IPS LCD, maximum brightness over 400 nits
Storage device: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Webcam: 1080p IR camera (with hardware kill switch)
Connectivity: 4 Thunderbolt 4 plus optional ports with 4 expansion cards, 3.5 mm headset jack
Networking: Intel AX210 (WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 capable)
Biometric: Fingerprint Scanner
Battery capacity: 61Wh
Size: 29.6cm (width) × 21.6cm (length) × 1.2cm (height)
Weight: 1.3 kg (excluding AC adapter)
Price: $1,469
Design and build quality
The Framework Laptop 13 shown in the photo is ordinary. With a black chiclet keyboard and a silver design that tapers towards the end, if there were a MacBook Air look-alike contest, it would at least come in second place. There's a Framework logo on the back of the screen, but it doesn't stand out enough to be memorable. When I first saw the actual product, I was surprised at how similar it was to what I saw in the photo. The design is plain, but fortunately the finish is pretty good.
The biggest feature of framework laptops is the already mentioned ‘repairability’. There are only five screws that secure the keyboard, and the remaining parts are designed to be held in place with magnets so that they can be opened quickly. Designs like this tend to get sloppy, but that's not the case with Framework Laptop 13. Not only is it relatively thin and easy to open, but it also feels sturdy enough to allow for future repairs and upgrades. To date, Framework has produced three generations of compatible Intel Framework 13 motherboards, and this year added an AMD Ryzen-based motherboard. We look forward to continuing to support upgrades to motherboards that support new performance in the future.
Although the design looks a bit plain, it has the advantage of being able to add at least a few custom parts. Replacement display bezels, available directly from Framework, are available in some transparent and several colors to help you spruce up your system. There is also a black and transparent keyboard for experienced users that does not require engraving on the keycaps. It is also positive that both new and recycled materials were used throughout the product.
Brendan Nystedt/IDG
connectivity
Unlike other laptops, you need to plan in advance when purchasing a framework. Framework computers are not equipped with physical ports as standard, but instead come with four small bays into which various “expansion cards” can be inserted. In theory, this configuration is more flexible than other laptops because it allows the user to decide which ports are needed and when. It's also easier to repair. For example, if the USB port doesn't work properly, just slide the module out and it comes out cleanly, so it can be replaced within seconds.
ⓒ Brendan Nystedt/IDG
As of 2023, the situation in the Phone Number List laptop sector is somewhat pessimistic. People who value flashy design and light weight more than functionality are flocking to products that are virtually impossible to repair or upgrade. This is why Framework Laptop 13 feels even more special.
It is a product of a small startup that aims to create a laptop that users can trust and use for a long period of time. While most laptops are Shein's fast fashion, Framework's products are oriented toward American Giant hoodies. In other words, although it is not the cheapest product, it aims to be a laptop that can be used for a long time.
For this purpose, a screwdriver is included with the framework product. It supports a unique modular port system that can be exchanged and changed as needed. RAM and SSDs can also be swapped out with universal components in minutes, without the need to solder new chips to the motherboard. So, overall, is this product really a good laptop? Let’s find out together.
Reviewed product specifications
The product reviewed this time is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1360P CPU, Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD. More detailed specifications are as follows.
CPU: Intel Core i7-1360P (12 cores, 16 threads, 4 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores)
Memory: 16GB LPDDR5 (2 x 8GB SODIMM, user upgradeable)
Graphics/GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Display: 13.5 inches 2356×1504 3:3 matte IPS LCD, maximum brightness over 400 nits
Storage device: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Webcam: 1080p IR camera (with hardware kill switch)
Connectivity: 4 Thunderbolt 4 plus optional ports with 4 expansion cards, 3.5 mm headset jack
Networking: Intel AX210 (WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 capable)
Biometric: Fingerprint Scanner
Battery capacity: 61Wh
Size: 29.6cm (width) × 21.6cm (length) × 1.2cm (height)
Weight: 1.3 kg (excluding AC adapter)
Price: $1,469
Design and build quality
The Framework Laptop 13 shown in the photo is ordinary. With a black chiclet keyboard and a silver design that tapers towards the end, if there were a MacBook Air look-alike contest, it would at least come in second place. There's a Framework logo on the back of the screen, but it doesn't stand out enough to be memorable. When I first saw the actual product, I was surprised at how similar it was to what I saw in the photo. The design is plain, but fortunately the finish is pretty good.
The biggest feature of framework laptops is the already mentioned ‘repairability’. There are only five screws that secure the keyboard, and the remaining parts are designed to be held in place with magnets so that they can be opened quickly. Designs like this tend to get sloppy, but that's not the case with Framework Laptop 13. Not only is it relatively thin and easy to open, but it also feels sturdy enough to allow for future repairs and upgrades. To date, Framework has produced three generations of compatible Intel Framework 13 motherboards, and this year added an AMD Ryzen-based motherboard. We look forward to continuing to support upgrades to motherboards that support new performance in the future.
Although the design looks a bit plain, it has the advantage of being able to add at least a few custom parts. Replacement display bezels, available directly from Framework, are available in some transparent and several colors to help you spruce up your system. There is also a black and transparent keyboard for experienced users that does not require engraving on the keycaps. It is also positive that both new and recycled materials were used throughout the product.
Brendan Nystedt/IDG
connectivity
Unlike other laptops, you need to plan in advance when purchasing a framework. Framework computers are not equipped with physical ports as standard, but instead come with four small bays into which various “expansion cards” can be inserted. In theory, this configuration is more flexible than other laptops because it allows the user to decide which ports are needed and when. It's also easier to repair. For example, if the USB port doesn't work properly, just slide the module out and it comes out cleanly, so it can be replaced within seconds.