Framework Laptop 13 (Intel) Review: Coming in Handy
Three generations in, the Framework Laptop 13 is still the most repairable laptop around, but with some new tricks.
www.tomshardware.comHere’s the latest on Framework Laptop 13 Pro as of April 2026.
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Overview: The Framework Laptop 13 Pro is a major revision of the original 13-inch model, featuring a redesigned chassis, a larger battery, a custom 13.5-inch touchscreen display, and a new haptic touchpad. It uses Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors and LPCAMM2 memory options, with 16–64 GB memory configurations. It’s designed to be highly repairable and upgradeable, continuing Framework’s core mission.
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Key specs and claims: The 13 Pro increases battery capacity to around 74 Wh (larger than the prior 13), adds a 100 W GaN charger, and uses a fully custom display with touchscreen support. It also brings a redesigned bottom chassis to accommodate the bigger battery and a revised keyboard area around the new haptic touchpad. It supports a range of memory modules up to 64 GB and faster LPDDR5x memory.
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Linux readiness and ecosystem: Framework emphasizes strong Linux support and upstream collaboration, with Ubuntu-certified configurations announced alongside broader distro compatibility. This aligns with their longstanding focus on open software and repairability.
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Availability and ecosystem updates: Pre-orders were opened around the Next Gen event, with additional updates to the Framework Laptop 16 and related accessories announced (e.g., new modules, touchpad/keyboard options, and a high-speed networking expansion card). The company also teased a wireless touchpad keyboard and a laptop sleeve, expanding the modular accessories ecosystem.
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Practical take: If you value repairability, modular upgrades, and open ecosystem, the 13 Pro represents a meaningful step forward. Expect better battery life and a more modern touch and input experience, at the cost of potentially higher initial price and the need to choose compatible components within Framework’s ecosystem.
Illustration (example): A side-by-side comparison shows the 13 Pro with a larger battery, a new touch-enabled display, and a revamped chassis versus the previous 13 model with a smaller battery and older display.
If you’d like, I can pull key specs (CPU options, memory, panel brightness, weight, and battery life) into a compact spec table or compare the 13 Pro against the 13 and 16 models. I can also summarize reviews from Tom’s Hardware, Ars Technica, and Tom’s Guide to give you a sense of real-world performance and upgradeability.