The Framework Laptop 13 Pro is the Linux users' anticipated alternative to the MacBook Pro that emphasizes repairability.

      Framework has been refining its modular laptop concept for six years, and the new Framework Laptop 13 Pro may be nearing its ultimate design. This model features a comprehensive redesign addressing key user concerns, beginning with battery life.

      Does it truly outperform a MacBook Pro in terms of battery?

      That's correct. Framework asserts that the Laptop 13 Pro can last over 20 hours while streaming Netflix in 4K. This is a 12-hour improvement over the previous Framework Laptop 13 and, notably, slightly exceeds the battery life of Apple’s 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro.

      Apple states its latest M5 Pro MacBook Pro can achieve up to 22 hours of video streaming, which is marginally more than Framework's claim, though this could result from different testing conditions. Framework plans to release comprehensive battery test videos on its YouTube channel, allowing you to verify their statement.

      What excites me more than the general figures is that the battery is now 74Wh, a 22% increase from the last generation, and it includes a 100W GaN charger in the box for quicker charging.

      Aside from the larger battery, the significantly enhanced battery performance is also attributed to the new Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, which feature specialized Low Power Efficient cores that activate during lighter activities like streaming, helping to keep the fans off entirely.

      There are three additional chip options: Core Ultra 5, Core Ultra X7, and Core Ultra X9. According to Framework, the X7 and X9 models can even manage AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077, which is unexpected for an ultrabook equipped with integrated graphics.

      What other updates are there?

      Nearly everything in the Framework 13 Pro laptop is new. It now incorporates LPCAMM2 memory, a new format that provides power-efficient LPDDR5X RAM in an upgradeable module. You can choose from 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, with the option to swap it out later if necessary. Storage can go up to 8TB with PCIe 5.0 NVMe support, which is fast enough to make most desktop drives seem slow.

      The display has been revamped as well, boasting a 13.5-inch 3:2 panel featuring touch support, 700 nits of brightness, a contrast ratio of 1800:1, and a variable refresh rate ranging from 30Hz to 120Hz.

      The chassis is now entirely machined from aluminum, it includes a new haptic touchpad, and for the first time, Ubuntu comes pre-installed as an option. Of course, you can also choose Windows 11 if that's your preferred operating system.

      What are the prices?

      The Framework Laptop 13 Pro starts at $1,199 for the DIY Edition and $1,499 for the pre-built version (pre-built Windows models begin at $1,699). Given that other laptop manufacturers have raised their prices, this seems competitive. Pre-orders are available now, with shipments slated to start in June.