I Could Cry Over the Framework Pro 13

Introduction and Bias [00:00]

• The reviewer acknowledges potential bias due to investment in Framework but asserts a critical approach.
• The Framework Pro 13 is presented as a significant advancement, fulfilling the reviewer's ideal laptop specifications.

  If anything, to avoid the appearance of bias, I actually find myself treating them as kind of like a coach's son.

Design and Build Quality [00:22]

• The Framework Pro 13 features a CNC aluminum chassis, offering a premium feel.
• The screen and input panel are stiff, and the hinge allows for easy one-finger opening.
• While visually similar to the old model, most components have been updated.

  The Framework Pro 13 uses a CNC aluminum chassis that contributes to a surprisingly big difference in the feel.

Expansion Modules and I/O [02:54]

• The modular expansion system is improved with reduced idle power consumption.
• Support for 4K displays and Thunderbolt 4 is now official.
• Modules feature a new locking mechanism and are available in various accent colors.

  As someone with particular needs when it comes to IO, the inclusion of a headphone jack and the ability to move my USB-A over to the left for a corded mouse or hack a high-speed networking module into my thin and light is a huge selling point.

Fan Noise and Keyboard [03:43]

• Fan noise has been significantly reduced, even under heavy load.
• The keyboard is highly praised for its satisfying travel, quiet operation, and well-sized keys.

  And while my thingies did get a little on the toasty side, more so on the right than the left, the fan never ramped up to a level that I would describe as bothersome and under normal conditions it is downright quiet.

Performance and Trackpad [05:03]

• The laptop is positioned as a competitor to MacBook Pro for serious work, not gaming.
• Configurations offer 12-16 cores and support up to 64GB of LPDDR5 memory.
• The trackpad is good but smaller than Apple's offerings.

  12 to 16 cores is an obscene amount of compute for such a compact laptop and LPDDR5 2 enables configurations with up to 64 gigs of fast memory for heavy workloads and even decent-sized local AI models.

Display Quality [05:53]

• The display offers a tall aspect ratio ideal for productivity and reading.
• It features a matte finish and touchscreen, with excellent usability in direct sunlight.
• Adaptive refresh rate from 30 to 120 Hz is supported.

  But, Framework still managed to deliver the more usable display with a nice tall aspect ratio that's great for development work, content editing, and reading long documents, and a matte finish and touchscreen combo that delivers just the best of both worlds.

Battery Life and Upgradability [06:55]

• Battery life has been significantly improved with a new, larger battery.
• Older models can upgrade the battery with a new chassis and input cover.
• New motherboards are available for performance upgrades.

  The new battery that they needed those awful arrow keys to make room for uses a new chemistry and is larger.

User Experience and Drivers [08:36]

• Framework provides a single, simple executable for all core system drivers.
• This contrasts with other manufacturers who often bundle bloatware or adware.

  With just about everybody else, I am looking down the barrel of at best a bloated management utility, and at worst intentional adware that is packed alongside my mandatory system drivers.

Pricing and Availability Issues [09:23]

• Framework uses a batch system for pre-orders, leading to potential delays.
• Shortages of high-capacity LP CAM 2 modules are causing issues for some customers.
• Customers are offered downgrades or the option to reorder at new pricing.

  But, if you have an original Framework 13 from 5 years ago, you can grab a new chassis and a new battery and keep on trucking.

Conclusion [10:14]

• The reviewer expresses hope for the end of the "AI winter."
• The Framework Pro 13 is summarized as a comfortable and thoughtfully designed product.

  Please, AI winter, be over soon.