Framework Laptop 13 (2025) review: getting better with age

The most significant update for the 2025 Framework Laptop 13 is the introduction of AMD chip options. Pre-built configurations now start with the Ryzen AI 5 340 at $1,099, the Ryzen AI 7 350 from $1,529, and the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 beginning at $2,099. For existing Framework 13 owners, mainboards are also sold separately: $449 for the Ryzen 340, $699 for the 350, and $999 for the HX 370.

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Our review unit is a DIY Edition, featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, an optional 120Hz 2880 x 1920 matte display, and translucent bezels (opting for a green bezel for a subtle Halo aesthetic). The Laptop 13 includes four expansion card slots, and our test model arrived with five interchangeable cards: two USB-C, one USB-A, DisplayPort, and an Ethernet jack that extends slightly from the slender chassis.

Beyond new bezel and expansion card colors, the laptop’s appearance is virtually unchanged from prior generations. Subtle enhancements include Wi-Fi 7, an updated thermal management system featuring a larger heat pipe, and a minor keyboard refinement to prevent longer keys from vibrating when the speakers are at high volume. While the Framework’s speakers are average at best, apparently some users are pushing the audio loud enough to cause key rattle. Our review unit also incorporated improvements previously introduced with the Intel Core Ultra model last year, such as the 120Hz screen and an enhanced webcam, both available as upgrades for existing devices.

Mirroring the previous AMD model, the new Framework 13’s four USB-C expansion slots offer varied speeds. The rear two slots support USB4, while the front two are USB 3.2. All slots support DisplayPort, though the front left is DP 1.4, and the others are 2.0, potentially enabling video output to four displays. In contrast, the Intel version does not have these constraints; all four expansion slots are USB4 compatible.

Opting for the DIY Edition is advisable, even for users who are not experienced with hardware assembly. It is more cost-effective and provides greater configuration flexibility. Furthermore, it is the most affordable route to acquire the 120Hz display, which is not available on pre-built models that are limited to a 60Hz screen.

Setting up our DIY review unit was straightforward and enjoyable. It took roughly 30 minutes to unpack, install RAM, secure the M.2 SSD, and attach the keyboard and magnetic bezel. Framework’s detailed guides, complete with images and video demonstrations, simplify the process even for novices. Operating system setup, specifically Windows 11 configuration, took longer than the hardware assembly.

The updated Framework maintains its appealing compact design. Its 3:2 aspect ratio screen enhances productivity by providing more vertical display area compared to standard 16:9 and 16:10 ratios, and its battery sustains a full eight-hour workday. Performance feels as responsive as previous Intel and AMD models, with added fluidity at 120Hz when plugged in. By default, Windows reduces the refresh rate to 60Hz on battery, although this can be adjusted.

The trackpad remains in the adequate range, but its feel is still reminiscent of lower-cost laptops. While key rattling was not an issue in previous models during testing, the keyboard continues to be a positive aspect of the Framework experience. It offers 1.5mm of key travel, providing an overall comfortable typing experience, albeit slightly softer than preferred.

The cooling fan is rarely audible during typical usage involving Slack and Google Docs with multiple Chrome tabs, and the laptop only becomes slightly warm to the touch on its underside. Notably, the fan activation seems less frequent compared to the Intel model.

The eight-core AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 chip demonstrates up to a 22 percent performance increase in multicore CPU tasks compared to preceding Framework models. However, it underperforms somewhat in graphics-intensive applications due to its integrated GPU. The 350 chip’s Geekbench 6.4 GPU score is 34 percent lower than the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H model and 23 percent less than the previous-generation AMD Ryzen 7 7840U. For enhanced graphics capabilities, the Framework 13 is also available with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 for an additional $430, the same Strix Point chip found in devices like the Asus Zenbook S 16, offering a significantly more powerful integrated GPU than earlier Framework versions.

The Ryzen AI 350 offers sufficient power for basic Photoshop and Lightroom Classic tasks, but the Framework 13’s display, while acceptable, exhibits slightly muted colors for tasks requiring precise color accuracy. While the 2880 x 1920 matte 120Hz panel is appreciated, its color fidelity and contrast are unremarkable, akin to Framework’s original 60Hz, 2256 x 1504 display, which remains the sole option for pre-configured models. Although the 2880 x 1920 panel reaches a respectable 500 nits of brightness, its color performance is merely average.

Framework’s online configurator prices our review configuration at $1,781 (excluding a Windows 11 license). This price point aligns with entry-level M4 MacBook Pro models and is comparable to larger laptops like the Asus Zenbook S 16 equipped with the HX 370 CPU; Framework’s pre-built model with this chip costs $2,099.

The $999 M4 MacBook Air significantly outperforms the Framework 13 in single-core tasks, offers a superior display, and boasts considerably longer battery life. However, MacBooks offer no post-purchase upgradeability.

For users prioritizing repairability and upgradeability in a laptop, the Framework 13 stands unchallenged. We commend Framework’s ethos, and the Laptop 13 reliably delivers on its promise of a modular, repairable, and upgradeable computing experience.

While some components in the Framework 13 may be considered average for its price range, no other laptop manufacturer releases new models alongside readily available standalone parts for current owners to upgrade their existing devices. Consider the scenario where Apple allowed M1 MacBook Air users to purchase and install the M4 mainboard upon its release, instead of requiring a complete new laptop purchase.

What began as a nascent startup in 2021 has evolved into a compelling and practical alternative to established laptop brands, championing the right to repair movement. The Framework Marketplace, once sparsely populated, is now abundant with replacement components and readily available upgrades.

The Framework Laptop 13 is now a proven and dependable platform. The future success of the company’s forthcoming Desktop and budget 12-inch laptop remains to be seen. Will they achieve the long-term success of the Laptop 13 despite current market uncertainties, or will they remain ongoing experimental ventures, similar to the Laptop 16? Future performance will determine their trajectory, but increased modularity is a welcome direction.

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