Framework Laptop 13 (2023)

Framework Laptop 13 (2023)

Manufacturer	Framework
Release date	2023 (2023)
Introductory price	USD 1049 to 2049
Discontinued	No
Operating system	Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro DIY Edition (supports Linux)
CPU	Intel Core i5-1340P Intel Core i7-1360P Intel Core i7-1370P Intel Core Ultra 5 125H Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Intel Core Ultra 7 165H AMD Ryzen 5 7640U AMD Ryzen 7 7840U
Memory	8 GB (1x8) or 16 GB (2x8) or 32 GB (2x16) DDR5-5600 MHz (supports up to 96 GB)
Memory slots	2 user accessible
Storage	256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB M.2 NVMe (supports up to 8 TB)
Storage slots	1 user accessible
Removable storage	MicroSD card reader
Display	Screen size: 13.5 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 2256 x 1504 Aspect ratio: 3:2 Refresh rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 400 Nits sRGB: 100 % Screen-to-body ratio:
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics Intel Iris Xe Graphics AMD Radeon 780M
Sound	2 x 2 W stereo speakers
Camera	1080p with >80 degree field of view
Touchpad	Glass, 13.5 in²
Connectivity	Intel AX210 WiFi 6E Bluetooth 5.3 4 x user-selectable Expansion Cards supporting Thunderbolt 4, USB4, USB-PD, DisplayPort Alt Mode
Dimensions	W: 11.7 inches (30 cm) D: 9 inches (23 cm) H: 0.62 inches (1.6 cm)
Mass	2.9 pounds (1.3 kg)
Power brick	60W GaN USB-C power adapter
Battery	55 Wh or 61 Wh
Keyboard	Adjustable backlight
Chassis	Color: Aluminum CNC Top Cover, Aluminum formed Input Cover and Bottom Cover Materials: Aluminum
Number pad	No
Fingerprint reader	Yes
Facial recognition	No
Website	Framework

All statements attributed to reviews are the reviewer's own opinion. Note that these claims were accurate at the time of publication and may be dated when you are reading this article. Read more.

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The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is a modular, repairable, and upgradable ultraportable laptop designed by Framework. It is available with both Intel and AMD processors, offering a range of configurations to suit different user needs. The laptop is designed to be user-friendly, with easy access to internal components for upgrades and repairs, making it a sustainable choice for those who value longevity and customization in their devices.

Primary Hardware

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Processor

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) can be configured with the following processors:

• Intel Core i5-1340P with 4 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 4.6 GHz.
• Intel Core i7-1360P with 4 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 5.0 GHz.
• Intel Core i7-1370P with 6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 5.2 GHz.
• Intel Core Ultra 5 125H with 4 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 4.5 GHz.
• Intel Core Ultra 7 155H with 6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 4.8 GHz.
• Intel Core Ultra 7 165H with 6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores, up to 5.0 GHz.
• AMD Ryzen 5 7640U with 6 cores and 12 threads, up to 4.9 GHz.
• AMD Ryzen 7 7840U with 8 cores and 16 threads, up to 5.1 GHz.

The Intel Core i7-1360P processor in the Framework 13 delivers significantly better performance in synthetic benchmarks like PCMark 10, Cinebench, and Geekbench compared to older models and budget-friendly alternatives. It is suitable for both productivity and content creation tasks. The AMD Ryzen 7 7840U also performs well for general productivity tasks and moderately heavy workloads, making it suitable for multitasking and business applications.

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R23:
  • Ryzen 7 7840U: 13,844 pts (multi-core), 1,693 pts (single-core)
  • i7-1370P: 13,159 pts (multi-core), 764 pts (single-core)

Graphics

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) offers the following integrated graphics options:

• Intel UHD Graphics (for i5-1340P)
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics (for i7-1360P and i7-1370P)
• AMD Radeon 780M (for AMD Ryzen 7 7840U)

The Intel Iris Xe Graphics in the Framework 13 provides decent performance for an ultraportable, outpacing older and lower-powered systems. It is sufficient for daily use, streaming media, and light gaming. The AMD Radeon 780M offers significantly better graphics performance than Intel's integrated solutions, especially in DX12 applications, and is capable of running most games reasonably well at 1080p.

Benchmarks:

• 3DMark Fire Strike:
  • Radeon 780M: 7,455 pts
  • Iris Xe: 5,705 pts
• 3DMark Time Spy:
  • Radeon 780M: 2,575 pts
  • Iris Xe: 1,951 pts

Memory

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) supports up to 96 GB of high-speed DDR5 memory. Pre-configured SKUs come with either 8 GB (1x8), 16 GB (2x8), or 32 GB (2x16) DDR5-5600 MHz memory.

The laptop performs well in productivity and content creation tasks, showcasing its capability in handling multiple applications simultaneously without lag. Dual-channel memory is recommended for better performance, especially for multitasking and running memory-intensive applications.

Benchmarks:

• AIDA64 Memory Copy: 62,540 MB/s

Storage

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) can be configured with 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB M.2 NVMe SSDs, and it supports up to 8 TB of storage.

The storage performance is solid, contributing to the overall speed and responsiveness of the system. The SSD allows for quick boot times and fast file access, enhancing the user experience.

Benchmarks:

• CrystalDiskMark:
  • Read Seq: 5,130 MB/s
  • Write Seq: 4,724 MB/s

Co-processors

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) does not include any dedicated co-processors.

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) features a comfortable and responsive keyboard with 1.5mm key travel and an adjustable backlight. The keyboard layout is spacious, with good travel and tactile feedback, but the high operating force can cause fatigue during extended typing sessions.

Touchpad

The laptop comes with a glass touchpad measuring 13.5 in². The touchpad tracks well and supports multi-touch gestures, providing a smooth user experience. However, the edges are less responsive, and clicking behavior may vary by unit.

Webcam

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) includes a 1080p webcam with a >80 degree field of view. The webcam provides clear video quality for video conferencing, making it suitable for remote work and online meetings.

Microphone

The laptop is equipped with dual MEMS microphones with a hardware privacy switch, ensuring clear audio and privacy protection.

Output Devices

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Display

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) offers one display option:

• 13.5", 2256 x 1504 resolution, 3:2 aspect ratio, >400 nits brightness, 60Hz refresh rate, 100% sRGB color gamut, matte anti-glare surface.

The display is sharp and bright, with good color accuracy and viewing angles. The 3:2 aspect ratio is beneficial for productivity, providing more vertical space for documents and web pages.

Benchmarks:

• Brightness: Maximum 439.9 cd/m²
• Contrast: 1211:1
• Color Accuracy: ΔE Color 1.81

Audio

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) comes with stereo 2W speakers.

Connectivity

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WiFi

The laptop is equipped with Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 or AMD RZ616 Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity.

Bluetooth

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) includes Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless peripheral connectivity.

SD Card Reader

The laptop features a MicroSD card reader, providing a convenient option for users needing additional storage.

USB

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) offers 4 user-selectable Expansion Cards supporting Thunderbolt 4, USB4, USB-PD, and DisplayPort Alt Mode, allowing for customizable connectivity options.

Display Outputs

The laptop supports HDMI and DisplayPort options available through expansion cards, enhancing usability for various setups and allowing users to connect to multiple external displays or projectors.

Case

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The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) features an aluminum CNC Top Cover, Aluminum formed Input Cover, and Bottom Cover, providing a sturdy and premium feel. The chassis is light, pleasant to feel, and robust, measuring 0.62 by 11.7 by 9 inches and weighing 2.9 lbs. The design is sleek and modern, making it an attractive ultraportable option.

Maintenance

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The laptop is designed for easy access to internal components for upgrades and repairs, promoting a user-friendly experience. Users can upgrade the mainboard and other components easily, allowing for long-term use and customization.

Cooling System

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The cooling system in the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is effective, with minimal thermal throttling under load, ensuring consistent performance during demanding tasks. However, the fan noise can be relatively loud under load.

Benchmarks:

• Fan Noise: Idle: 25.0 dBA, Load: 47.0 dBA

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The laptop comes with a 60W GaN USB-C power adapter, providing efficient charging capabilities.

Battery Life

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is equipped with either a 55Wh or 61Wh battery. The laptop offers excellent battery life, lasting over ten hours for web browsing and video playback, making it suitable for all-day use.

Benchmarks:

• Battery Life (Web Browsing): 10.4 hrs
• Battery Life (Video Playback): 9.5 hrs

Biometrics

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The laptop includes a fingerprint reader for secure access.

Software

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The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) ships with Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, with the option for a DIY Edition that allows users to bring their preferred OS, including Linux. The laptop supports Linux installations, appealing to users who prefer open-source operating systems.

Accessories & Warranty

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The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) comes with a 60W GaN USB-C power adapter and paperwork. There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is highly regarded for its modular, repairable, and upgradable design, making it a sustainable choice for users who value longevity and customization. The laptop offers strong performance, excellent battery life, and a sharp display, making it suitable for school, business, and general productivity tasks. However, its integrated graphics may struggle with demanding tasks, and the keyboard can be tiring for extended typing sessions.

Problems Summary

• Integrated graphics may struggle with demanding tasks.
• Keyboard can be tiring for extended typing sessions.
• Fan noise can be relatively loud under load.
• Some design aspects feel outdated compared to competitors* The modular design has more seams than unibody laptops, which may affect the overall aesthetic.
• The touchpad edges are less responsive, and clicking behavior may vary by unit.
• The speakers lack bass and may not satisfy audiophiles.
• The laptop lacks advanced display options like OLED or mini-LED.

Links

• PCMag Review: Framework Laptop 13 (2023)
• RTINGS Review: Framework Laptop 13 (2023)
• NotebookCheck Review: Framework Laptop 13.5 (AMD Ryzen 7 7840U)
• NotebookCheck Review: Framework Laptop 13.5 (Intel Core i7-1370P)