The Framework Laptop 13 2021 emerged as a groundbreaking entry in the personal computing space, fundamentally challenging the prevailing paradigm of disposable electronics. It wasn’t just another laptop. it was a manifesto for repairability, upgradeability, and modularity, designed from the ground up to empower users to maintain, customize, and extend the life of their devices. This initial iteration, while not without its first-gen quirks, laid the groundwork for a truly sustainable and user-centric approach to laptops, allowing owners to easily swap out components like RAM, storage, Wi-Fi cards, and even the mainboard, significantly reducing electronic waste and offering a compelling alternative to traditional, sealed-unit laptops. It appealed directly to the DIY enthusiast, the environmentally conscious consumer, and anyone fed up with planned obsolescence, proving that performance and portability didn’t have to come at the expense of user control.

Feature	Framework Laptop 13 2021	Dell XPS 13 2021	Apple MacBook Air M1 2020	Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9	HP Spectre x360 13 2021	Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 13.5-inch	LG Gram 14 2021
Core Philosophy	User-repairability, modularity, sustainability	Premium design, performance, thin & light	Efficiency, performance Apple Silicon, ecosystem	Business-class durability, keyboard, security	Versatility 2-in-1, design, privacy features	Premium build, touch screen, productivity	Ultra-lightweight, long battery life, portability
CPU Options	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7	Apple M1	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen	Intel 11th Gen Core i5/i7
RAM User Upgradeable	Yes up to 64GB	No soldered	No integrated	Some models up to 32GB, often soldered in X1	No soldered	No soldered	Yes up to 16GB, usually soldered
Storage User Upgradeable	Yes NVMe SSD	Yes NVMe SSD	No integrated	Yes NVMe SSD	Yes NVMe SSD	Yes NVMe SSD, but can be tricky to access	Yes NVMe SSD
Ports	4x USB-C Thunderbolt 4, modular Expansion Cards	2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB-C, microSD, 3.5mm	2x Thunderbolt/USB 4, 3.5mm	2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-A, HDMI, 3.5mm	2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB-A, microSD, 3.5mm	1x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 3.5mm, Surface Connect	2x USB-C Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-A, HDMI, microSD, 3.5mm
Display	13.5″ 2256×1504 3:2 IPS	13.4″ FHD+ or 3.5K OLED 16:10	13.3″ 2560×1600 Retina IPS	14″ FHD or UHD+ 16:10	13.3″ FHD or 4K OLED 16:9	13.5″ 2256×1504 PixelSense 3:2	14″ 1920×1200 16:10 IPS
Keyboard	Excellent, comfortable	Good, shallow travel	Excellent, Magic Keyboard	Industry-leading	Good, responsive	Comfortable, Alcantara option	Good, responsive
Webcam	1080p user upgradeable	720p	720p	720p/1080p	720p	720p	720p
Notable Feature	Expansion Card system, user-replaceable everything	Near bezel-less display, premium build	Unrivaled battery life, silent operation	Robust security, enterprise features	Convertible design, privacy shutter	Unique Alcantara keyboard deck some models	Extremely light, exceptional battery life

Table of Contents

The Genesis of a Movement: Why the Framework Laptop 13 2021 Mattered

The year 2021 marked a pivotal moment for the laptop industry with the release of the Framework Laptop 13. In an era dominated by sleek, sealed-unit designs where components were often glued in and upgrades were practically impossible, Framework’s approach was a breath of fresh air.

It wasn’t just about offering a customizable laptop.

It was about empowering the user, extending product lifecycles, and reducing electronic waste.

This philosophy resonated deeply with a growing segment of consumers frustrated by planned obsolescence.

Challenging the Status Quo of Planned Obsolescence

For years, laptop manufacturers have increasingly embraced designs that prioritize aesthetics and thinness over repairability.

Components like RAM and storage are often soldered directly onto the motherboard, making upgrades or repairs by the end-user impossible.

This forces consumers into a cycle of buying new devices sooner, even if only one small component fails or becomes outdated.

Environmental Impact: This model creates enormous amounts of e-waste, burdening landfills with perfectly good components simply because one part failed or couldn’t be upgraded.
Consumer Costs: Users face higher long-term costs, as they’re compelled to replace an entire laptop rather than a single, inexpensive part.
Loss of Control: Consumers lose agency over their own devices, becoming entirely reliant on manufacturers for service and upgrades.

Framework directly addressed these pain points.

Their initial 2021 model was a clear statement that a different path was not only possible but commercially viable.

It provided a tangible alternative to the “throwaway” culture pervasive in tech. Dell Alienware m18 (2023)

The Rise of the Repairability Movement

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 didn’t just appear out of nowhere.

It rode a wave of increasing public awareness and advocacy for the “Right to Repair.” This global movement champions legislation and consumer rights that allow individuals and independent repair shops to fix electronic devices.

Key Principles of Right to Repair: Access to parts, tools, and repair manuals. ability to unlock software necessary for repair. no restrictions on independent repair.
Legislative Efforts: In 2021, various states in the U.S. and countries in the EU were actively considering or passing right-to-repair bills, putting pressure on manufacturers.
Consumer Demand: Surveys consistently show strong consumer support for the ability to repair their own products.

Framework’s timing was impeccable, tapping directly into this growing desire for more sustainable and controllable technology.

They became a poster child for what a company committed to repairability could look like, proving that transparency and user empowerment could be a core business tenet.

Modular Design at its Core: The Expansion Card System

One of the most revolutionary aspects of the Framework Laptop 13 2021 was its innovative Expansion Card system.

Instead of fixed ports, the laptop featured four bays where users could insert hot-swappable modules, offering unprecedented flexibility and future-proofing.

How the Expansion Cards Work

Each Expansion Card is essentially a small, standardized module that plugs into one of the four bays on the side of the laptop.

These bays connect directly to the system’s internal buses, providing high-speed connectivity.

Variety of Modules: At launch, Framework offered modules for:
- USB-C Thunderbolt 4 compatible: The default and most versatile option.
- USB-A: For legacy devices.
- HDMI: For external displays.
- DisplayPort: Another option for external displays.
- MicroSD: For memory card access.
- 1TB Storage: A small, portable SSD for extra capacity.
Hot-Swappable: Cards can be inserted and removed while the laptop is powered on, much like a USB drive.
Future-Proofing: As new standards or port types emerge, Framework can release new cards, allowing users to upgrade their laptop’s connectivity without buying a whole new machine. For instance, if you bought the 2021 model and later needed a new type of port, you could just buy that specific card.

Impact on User Experience and Longevity

This modularity had a profound impact on how users could interact with and prolong the life of their laptop.

Tailored Connectivity: Users could configure their port selection precisely to their needs on any given day. Traveling and need two USB-C and an HDMI? Done. At home and need two USB-A for peripherals? Easy.
Reduced Dongle Dependence: For many, the Expansion Card system eliminated the need for bulky external dongles and hubs, common with ultra-thin laptops.
Upgradability and Adaptability: This system is perhaps the purest embodiment of Framework’s ethos. If a new, faster USB standard comes out in a few years, Framework could theoretically release a new Expansion Card, giving older Framework Laptops modern connectivity. This significantly extends the useful life of the core machine.
Cost Savings: Instead of replacing a laptop due to insufficient ports or a lack of a specific connectivity option, users could simply buy a new card, which is significantly cheaper.

The Expansion Card system was not just a gimmick. Dell XPS 14 (2024)

It was a fundamental shift in how laptop ports are designed and utilized, offering a tangible example of user-centric innovation.

Performance and Specifications: What the 2021 Model Packed

While the Framework Laptop 13 2021 prioritized repairability, it didn’t skimp on core performance.

It featured respectable specifications for its time, making it a capable machine for everyday productivity, light creative work, and general computing tasks.

Intel 11th Gen Tiger Lake Processors

The 2021 model was powered by Intel’s 11th generation “Tiger Lake” processors.

These CPUs were known for their improved single-core performance and significantly enhanced integrated graphics Iris Xe Graphics compared to previous generations.

Available Configurations:
- Intel Core i5-1135G7: A quad-core, eight-thread CPU offering good performance for most users. Base clock of 2.4 GHz, boost up to 4.2 GHz.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7: A step up, also a quad-core, eight-thread CPU with higher clock speeds 2.8 GHz base, 4.7 GHz boost for more demanding tasks.
- Intel Core i7-1185G7: The top-tier option, offering slightly higher clock speeds 3.0 GHz base, 4.8 GHz boost and often better sustained performance for professional users.
Iris Xe Graphics: This integrated GPU was a significant upgrade, capable of handling 4K video playback, light gaming, and accelerating creative applications that support GPU compute. It was competitive with entry-level discrete GPUs from a few years prior.

Memory, Storage, and Wi-Fi Options

Unlike many competitors, Framework allowed users to choose and install their own RAM, storage, and Wi-Fi modules, providing ultimate flexibility and cost savings.

RAM: Supports up to 64GB of DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM RAM across two slots. Users could purchase the laptop without RAM and install their own, or select pre-configured options. This was a massive advantage for power users who might need large amounts of RAM for virtual machines, video editing, or complex data analysis.
Storage: Features a single M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD slot. This meant users could install high-speed SSDs from any reputable manufacturer, up to several terabytes. Framework also offered its own SSDs, but the choice was always with the user.
Wi-Fi: Utilized a standard M.2 E-key slot for the Wi-Fi card. The 2021 models typically shipped with the Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210, offering excellent wireless performance and future-proofing with Wi-Fi 6E support. This was also user-replaceable, allowing for easy upgrades should new wireless standards emerge.

Display and Peripherals

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 also came with a high-quality display and a thoughtfully designed keyboard and trackpad.

Display: A 13.5-inch IPS display with a 2256 x 1504 resolution and a productivity-friendly 3:2 aspect ratio. This resolution offered crisp text and ample vertical screen real estate, ideal for documents, coding, and web browsing.
Webcam: Featured a 1080p webcam, a significant improvement over the common 720p cameras found in most laptops, especially important for remote work and video conferencing. This module was also designed to be easily replaceable.
Keyboard and Trackpad: The keyboard offered a comfortable typing experience with good key travel and a satisfying tactile response. The glass trackpad was large and precise, supporting Windows Precision drivers for smooth multi-touch gestures. Both were designed for easy replacement.

The combination of solid core components and unparalleled user-upgradability made the 2021 Framework Laptop a compelling option for those who valued longevity and control over their hardware.

User Experience and Repairability: A Deep Dive

The true magic of the Framework Laptop 13 2021 wasn’t just in its specs, but in the entire user experience centered around easy access and repair. This wasn’t just marketing hype.

It was a fundamental design principle baked into every component. Apple MacBook Air 15 (2023)

The Tool-Less Design Philosophy

Framework’s commitment to repairability began with making the laptop incredibly easy to open.

Single Screwdriver: The entire laptop, from the top cover to internal components, can be opened using a single Torx T5 screwdriver, which Framework thoughtfully includes in the box. No specialized tools, no proprietary fasteners.
Magnetic Bezels: The display bezel is held on by magnets, making it simple to remove and replace if you need to access the display cable or swap out the webcam module. This is a stark contrast to glued bezels found on many laptops.
Captive Screws: Most internal screws are captive, meaning they stay attached to the part even when loosened. This prevents lost screws during disassembly and streamlines the process.

This design makes it feasible for even a novice user to perform common upgrades or repairs, eliminating the need for expensive professional service for many issues.

Component Accessibility and Replacement

Once inside, the level of modularity becomes truly apparent.

Almost every significant component is designed to be user-replaceable.

RAM and SSD: Located under the bottom cover, these are standard SO-DIMM and M.2 NVMe slots, respectively. Swapping them out takes literally minutes.
Wi-Fi Card: Also easily accessible under the bottom cover, using a standard M.2 E-key slot.
Battery: A large, clearly labeled battery pack held in by a few screws and a standard connector. Replacement is straightforward, significantly extending the life of the laptop if the battery degrades.
Keyboard, Trackpad, Speakers: These are also modular units. If a keycap breaks, or the trackpad becomes unresponsive, or a speaker blows, you can order the specific part and replace it.
Mainboard: Even the entire mainboard, containing the CPU and integrated graphics, is designed to be replaceable. This is the ultimate upgrade path: in future years, if Framework releases new mainboards with updated processors, you can essentially drop a new “brain” into your existing chassis. This is unheard of in mainstream laptops.
Webcam and Microphone: These are separate modules that can be swapped out. This is a must for privacy or if you want to upgrade to a higher-quality camera in the future.

Comprehensive Repair Guides and Parts Availability

Framework backs up its design with an extensive knowledge base and commitment to parts availability.

Detailed Guides: Their website features incredibly detailed, step-by-step repair and upgrade guides with high-quality photos and videos for every component. These guides are clear, concise, and empowering.
Parts Store: Framework maintains an online marketplace where users can purchase genuine replacement parts, from a single screw to a new mainboard, display assembly, or a pack of Expansion Cards. This eliminates the “parts scarcity” issue that plagues many other brands.
Community Support: A vibrant online community and forums exist where users share tips, troubleshoot issues, and provide mutual support.

This holistic approach to repairability truly sets the Framework Laptop 13 2021 apart, transforming what was once a complex, intimidating task into a simple, accessible process for anyone with a screwdriver and a little patience.

Software Compatibility and Ecosystem

When a new hardware platform emerges, especially one focused on open design, questions naturally arise about its software compatibility.

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 was designed to be platform-agnostic, supporting a wide range of operating systems and fitting seamlessly into various software ecosystems.

Windows 10 and 11 Support

Out of the box, the Framework Laptop 13 2021 was optimized for Microsoft Windows.

Official Drivers: Framework provided all necessary drivers for Windows 10 and 11, ensuring full functionality for all hardware components, including the display, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, trackpad, and webcam.
Performance: Performance on Windows was comparable to other laptops featuring the same Intel 11th Gen processors, offering a smooth experience for office productivity, web browsing, and general use.
Windows Hello: The laptop included a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for biometric login via Windows Hello, a convenient security feature.

For the vast majority of users, running Windows on the Framework Laptop was a familiar and stable experience, without any significant compatibility hurdles due to its modular nature. Acer Swift Go 14 (2024)

Excellent Linux Compatibility

One of the areas where the Framework Laptop truly shone, especially for its target audience of tinkerers and open-source enthusiasts, was its robust Linux compatibility.

Community Endorsement: From its inception, the Framework Laptop was embraced by the Linux community, quickly becoming a highly recommended device for various distributions.
Official Support & Guides: While not every Linux distro is officially supported by Framework in the same way Windows is, Framework provided specific guides and recommendations for popular distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Manjaro, detailing any necessary tweaks or driver installations.
Kernel Integration: Due to its use of standard, off-the-shelf components Intel CPUs, common Wi-Fi chips, most modern Linux kernels had excellent built-in support, often requiring minimal extra effort for core functionality.
User-Contributed Solutions: The vibrant Framework community often contributed fixes and workarounds for niche issues, further solidifying its reputation as a Linux-friendly machine.

Running Linux on the Framework Laptop often felt like a natural fit, aligning with the open and customizable philosophy of the hardware itself.

It offered users the freedom to choose their preferred desktop environment, package manager, and suite of open-source applications.

Other Operating Systems and Virtualization

Beyond Windows and Linux, the Framework Laptop also provided avenues for other operating systems and advanced configurations.

ChromeOS Flex: While not natively a Chromebook, the Framework Laptop could comfortably run ChromeOS Flex, offering a lightweight, cloud-centric computing experience.
Virtualization: The Intel 11th Gen CPUs supported virtualization technologies VT-x, VT-d, making the Framework Laptop an excellent platform for running virtual machines using software like VMware Workstation, VirtualBox, or KVM. This allowed users to run multiple operating systems concurrently, or test different software environments without affecting their main OS.
Custom Builds: The modularity also appealed to users interested in custom OS builds, unusual Linux distributions, or even hobbyist operating systems, as the hardware was well-documented and accessible.

The Framework Laptop 13 2021’s software compatibility ensured that its innovative hardware design was not constrained by limited operating system choices, making it a versatile machine for a diverse user base.

Pricing, Configurations, and Value Proposition

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 entered the market with a unique pricing strategy, reflecting its commitment to modularity and user choice.

It offered both pre-built configurations and a “DIY Edition,” allowing users to save money by sourcing their own components.

Understanding the Pricing Model

Unlike traditional laptops where you buy a fixed configuration, Framework’s approach gave you granular control.

DIY Edition: This was often the most compelling option for budget-conscious users or those who already had spare RAM or storage. You’d buy the barebones laptop chassis, display, mainboard with CPU, battery, webcam, keyboard, trackpad, and then add your own:
- RAM DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM
- NVMe SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4
- Wi-Fi Card M.2 E-key
- Operating System Windows license or free Linux
- Expansion Cards from Framework’s store
This allowed for significant cost savings if you could find components on sale or repurpose existing ones. ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023)
Pre-Built Configurations: For users who preferred a ready-to-go machine, Framework also offered pre-configured models with varying levels of RAM, storage, and CPU options. These came with Windows pre-installed and a selection of Expansion Cards. While more expensive than the DIY route, they offered convenience.

The pricing of the core laptop itself mainboard, display, chassis was competitive with other premium ultraportables of similar specifications from Dell, HP, or Lenovo, especially considering the added value of repairability and modularity.

Long-Term Value and Total Cost of Ownership

The true value proposition of the Framework Laptop 13 2021 became evident when considering its long-term total cost of ownership TCO.

Extended Lifespan: The ability to easily upgrade components RAM, storage, Wi-Fi and replace parts battery, keyboard, even the mainboard with a newer CPU means the laptop can stay relevant and functional for many more years than a typical sealed-unit laptop. If a display cracks, you replace the display, not the entire laptop. If the battery wears out, you replace the battery for $70-100, not a $1000+ new machine.
Reduced Upgrade Cycles: Instead of buying a completely new laptop every 3-5 years, a Framework user might only need to buy a new mainboard every 5-7 years, or simply upgrade RAM/storage as needed.
Lower Repair Costs: User-performable repairs drastically reduce labor costs associated with professional repair shops. Framework’s transparent pricing for parts also means no hidden fees.
Environmental Benefit: While not a direct monetary saving, the reduced environmental footprint from fewer discarded devices is a significant long-term benefit.

Example Scenario:

Traditional Laptop: Buy for $1200. After 4 years, battery degrades, RAM/storage is insufficient, new OS update demands more power. Replace for $1200. Total over 8 years: $2400.
Framework Laptop 2021: Buy for $1100 DIY + components. After 4 years, replace battery $70 and upgrade RAM/storage $100. After 6 years, upgrade mainboard to newer gen CPU $500. Total over 8 years: $1770.

This hypothetical scenario clearly illustrates the potential for significant long-term savings with a Framework Laptop, provided the user actively leverages its repairability and upgradeability features.

Challenges and Considerations for a First-Generation Product

As with any innovative first-generation product, the Framework Laptop 13 2021 wasn’t without its challenges and areas for improvement.

While its core philosophy was revolutionary, the initial implementation had some rough edges that early adopters navigated.

Battery Life

One of the most frequently cited drawbacks of the 2021 model was its battery life.

While not terrible, it wasn’t class-leading, especially when compared to highly optimized machines like Apple’s M1 MacBooks or some Intel Evo-certified laptops.

Capacity: The 55Wh battery, while decent, struggled to consistently deliver all-day usage for power users.
Efficiency of 11th Gen Intel: While Tiger Lake was an improvement, it wasn’t as power-efficient as later Intel generations or Apple Silicon, especially under sustained loads.
Early Firmware Optimizations: As a new platform, early firmware and driver optimizations weren’t as mature, which could sometimes impact power draw.

Framework has actively worked on improving battery life with subsequent mainboard upgrades and firmware updates, but the 2021 model’s battery life was a common point of discussion. Acer Chromebook Plus 514 (2023)

Initial Availability and Production Scale

As a startup, Framework faced the inherent challenges of scaling production and distribution for a brand-new product.

Pre-orders and Wait Times: Early adopters often experienced significant wait times after placing pre-orders, as manufacturing ramped up.
Limited Regions: Initially, the laptop was primarily available in the United States and Canada, slowly expanding to other regions over time. This limited accessibility for many international customers.
Supply Chain Resilience: The global supply chain issues during 2021 and 2022 also presented hurdles, impacting component availability and shipping timelines.

These were typical challenges for a small, innovative company disrupting a mature industry, and Framework largely managed them transparently, communicating directly with its community.

Minor First-Gen Quirks

Some minor design or usability quirks were present in the first iteration, common for a product breaking new ground.

Expansion Card Fit: While excellent conceptually, some early Expansion Cards could occasionally feel a little loose or require a firm push to seat properly. This was largely improved in later batches and subsequent models.
Thermals Under Load: While adequate for general use, the cooling system with the 11th Gen Intel chips could sometimes lead to fan noise under heavy, sustained workloads, such as video rendering or intense compiling.
Webcam Quality Initial Software: While hardware was 1080p, early software optimization might have left some room for improvement in image processing compared to more mature platforms. This could often be improved with driver and firmware updates.
Lack of dGPU Option: For users needing serious graphical horsepower for gaming or demanding creative applications, the integrated Iris Xe graphics were a limitation. Framework has since addressed this in later generations with external GPU solutions, but the 2021 model was integrated-graphics-only.

Despite these minor points, the overwhelmingly positive reception for the Framework Laptop 13 2021 demonstrated that its core value proposition – repairability and modularity – far outweighed these initial first-gen challenges.

It laid a solid foundation for future iterations to refine the experience.

The Legacy of the Framework Laptop 13 2021 and its Future

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 wasn’t just a product.

It was a proof of concept, a statement, and the beginning of a significant shift in the personal computing industry.

Its legacy extends far beyond its initial sales figures, impacting consumer expectations and influencing competitors.

A Catalyst for Change in the Industry

Framework’s bold move sent ripples through the tech industry.

Increased Awareness: The Framework Laptop brought the concept of repairability and upgradeability to the forefront of mainstream tech discussions. Reviewers praised its approach, and consumers began to demand more from other manufacturers.
Competitive Pressure: While no major laptop manufacturer has fully adopted Framework’s modularity, there’s been subtle movement. Some brands have started making RAM and storage slightly more accessible, or offering more transparent repair services, albeit slowly. The “Right to Repair” movement gained significant momentum partly because Framework showed it could be done commercially.
A Blueprint for Startups: Framework provided a successful model for other startups looking to challenge established norms in hardware development, demonstrating that focusing on sustainability and user empowerment can attract a dedicated customer base.

The 2021 model proved that there was a viable market for highly repairable and upgradeable laptops, effectively debunking the industry’s long-held belief that consumers only cared about thinness and disposability. Acer Chromebook 315 (2020)

Evolution to Newer Generations

Framework didn’t stop with the 2021 model.

The core design has been refined and expanded upon in subsequent years.

12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Mainboards: Framework consistently released new mainboards with updated Intel processors, allowing 2021 owners to upgrade their laptops to the latest performance simply by swapping out the mainboard. This is the ultimate testament to the “upgradeable” promise.
AMD Mainboards: In a significant move, Framework introduced mainboards with AMD Ryzen processors, offering alternative CPU architectures and strong integrated graphics performance.
Framework Laptop 16: Building on the 13-inch model’s success, Framework launched the Framework Laptop 16, a larger, more powerful machine that takes modularity to the next level with upgradeable discrete graphics modules and a customizable input deck.
Improved Components: Successive iterations saw refinements to the display, battery life optimizations through firmware, and general quality-of-life improvements based on community feedback.

The continuous evolution shows Framework’s long-term commitment to its vision, ensuring that early adopters of the 2021 model still have an upgrade path forward.

Impact on Consumer Behavior and Expectations

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 has fundamentally altered how a segment of consumers views laptops.

Empowered Consumers: Users of Framework laptops often feel a greater sense of ownership and empowerment over their devices, knowing they can fix and upgrade them.
Longevity Mindset: It encourages a shift from a “replace and discard” mentality to a “repair and retain” approach, fostering greater sustainability awareness.
Demand for Transparency: Consumers are increasingly looking for transparency from manufacturers regarding parts, repairability scores, and environmental impact.

In conclusion, the Framework Laptop 13 2021 was far more than just a new laptop.

It was a catalyst that ignited a powerful conversation about product longevity, repairability, and consumer rights in the tech world.

Its innovative modular design and commitment to empowering users have left an indelible mark, paving the way for a more sustainable and user-centric future for personal computing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 was the inaugural model of a modular, user-repairable laptop designed to extend product lifespan and reduce electronic waste, allowing users to easily swap components like RAM, storage, and even the mainboard.

What makes the Framework Laptop 13 2021 unique?

It is unique due to its extreme modularity, featuring an Expansion Card system for customizable ports, and nearly every component RAM, storage, Wi-Fi, battery, keyboard, display, mainboard being user-replaceable with standard tools and readily available parts.

What processors did the 2021 Framework Laptop use?

The 2021 Framework Laptop 13 was powered by Intel’s 11th Generation “Tiger Lake” Core i5 and Core i7 processors, including the i5-1135G7, i7-1165G7, and i7-1185G7. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2022)

Can I upgrade the RAM on the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

Yes, absolutely.

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 has two SO-DIMM slots, allowing users to easily upgrade the RAM themselves, supporting up to 64GB of DDR4-3200 memory.

Can I upgrade the storage on the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

Yes, you can.

It features one M.2 2280 slot for an NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD, which is user-replaceable and upgradeable to higher capacities.

What are Expansion Cards and how do they work?

Expansion Cards are hot-swappable modules that plug into four bays on the side of the laptop, allowing users to customize their port selection e.g., USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, microSD, 1TB storage on demand.

Is the Framework Laptop 13 2021 good for gaming?

No, not really for demanding titles.

While its integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics are capable of light gaming and casual titles, the 2021 model does not have a dedicated graphics card and is not designed for serious gaming.

What operating systems are compatible with the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 is fully compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11. It also has excellent support for various Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Manjaro.

How is the battery life on the 2021 Framework Laptop?

The battery life on the 2021 model, with its 55Wh battery and 11th Gen Intel processors, was generally considered good but not class-leading compared to some competitors.

It typically offered 5-8 hours of mixed use depending on workload. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 (2024) GU605

Can I replace the battery on the Framework Laptop 13 2021 myself?

Yes, replacing the battery is a straightforward process.

It’s held in by a few screws and connects with a standard cable, making it easily user-replaceable.

Is the keyboard and trackpad good on the 2021 model?

Yes, the keyboard is generally well-regarded for its comfortable key travel and tactile feedback.

The glass trackpad is large and precise, supporting Windows Precision drivers. Both are designed to be user-replaceable.

What kind of display does it have?

The 2021 model features a 13.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 and a productivity-friendly 3:2 aspect ratio.

Where can I buy replacement parts for the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

Framework maintains an online Marketplace where users can purchase genuine replacement parts, including Expansion Cards, mainboards, batteries, keyboards, and other components.

How easy is it to repair the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

It’s exceptionally easy.

The laptop is designed with repairability in mind, requiring only a single Torx T5 screwdriver included to access and replace nearly all major components, with detailed guides provided by Framework.

Can I upgrade the CPU on my 2021 Framework Laptop?

Yes, you can effectively upgrade the CPU by replacing the entire mainboard.

Framework offers newer mainboards with more powerful and recent generation Intel and AMD processors that are compatible with the original 2021 chassis. Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II

Does the Framework Laptop 13 2021 have a fingerprint reader?

Yes, the 2021 model includes a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for convenient and secure login.

What is the webcam quality like on the 2021 model?

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 features a 1080p webcam, which was a notable improvement over the common 720p webcams found in many laptops at the time. The module itself is also user-replaceable.

Does it come with an operating system pre-installed?

If you purchase a pre-built configuration, it typically comes with Windows pre-installed.

The “DIY Edition” allows you to install your own operating system, such as Windows or a Linux distribution.

What materials is the laptop chassis made from?

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 features an aluminum top cover and keyboard deck, with a polycarbonate bottom cover.

What are the main benefits of owning a Framework Laptop 13 2021?

The main benefits include extreme repairability, upgradeability, reduced electronic waste, lower total cost of ownership over time, and the ability to customize and extend the life of your device.

Are there any drawbacks to the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

Potential drawbacks for the first-generation model included somewhat average battery life compared to some competitors, and initial limited availability or longer wait times. There was also no option for a discrete GPU.

How does the Framework Laptop compare to a MacBook Air M1?

The Framework Laptop 13 2021 offers unparalleled repairability and modularity, which the MacBook Air M1 lacks entirely.

The M1 MacBook Air generally offered superior battery life and performance efficiency, especially in its class, due to Apple’s custom silicon.

Framework focused on user control, Apple on integrated optimization. Nikon Z 30

What was the original price range for the Framework Laptop 13 2021?

The pricing varied depending on the configuration and whether it was a DIY or pre-built model.

The DIY Edition started significantly lower, often around $750 for the barebones, while pre-built configurations could range from $999 to over $1500 for higher-end specs.

Can I put a different Expansion Card type into any of the four bays?

Yes, any Expansion Card can be inserted into any of the four bays on the side of the laptop. They are fully interchangeable.

Did Framework offer a guarantee on parts availability for the 2021 model?

While Framework doesn’t offer an explicit “guarantee” for eternity, their core business model relies on long-term parts availability and backward compatibility.

They have a strong track record of supporting older modules and releasing upgrade paths for their original chassis.

What kind of cooling system does the 2021 Framework Laptop have?

It uses an active cooling system with a single fan and heat pipes to dissipate heat from the Intel CPU.

Under heavy load, the fan can become audible, but it generally manages temperatures well for its class.

Is the webcam module user-replaceable?

Yes, the webcam and microphone module is designed to be easily user-replaceable, allowing for future upgrades or repairs.

Can I run CAD software or video editing on the 2021 Framework Laptop?

For lighter CAD work and basic video editing, the Intel 11th Gen i7 with Iris Xe graphics can handle it.

However, for professional-level or heavy-duty tasks, the lack of a discrete GPU might be a limiting factor compared to workstations. Panasonic LUMIX G100

How does Framework handle firmware updates?

Framework provides firmware updates through standard channels, often via Windows Update or directly downloadable from their support site, ensuring users can keep their system optimized and secure.

What is the future outlook for users who bought the 2021 model?

The future outlook is excellent.

Framework’s commitment to releasing newer mainboards e.g., 12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel, AMD Ryzen means that owners of the original 2021 chassis can continually upgrade their laptop’s core performance, essentially transforming it into a much newer machine without buying a whole new device.

Framework Laptop 13 (2021)