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Can this laptop finally make tech sustainable?
How economical is it to repair a Framework laptop? We run the numbers.
One of the main downsides of most modern laptops is that they are difficult or impossible to repair. Even if they are possible to repair, the availability of official, compatible parts can be patchy. And, if you can replace the parts and they are actually available, the cost and expertise required to perform what used to be basic repairs is likely to be high.
Framework’s laptops look to solve this. Almost every key component is replaceable – from critical internals such as the screen, speakers, battery and motherboard to things like the keyboard and individual USB ports. So if your laptop is faulty, you damage it or you simply want to upgrade, you don’t have to compromise cost-effectiveness over eco-friendliness. That’s the theory, anyway.
Need a new laptop? See all our laptop reviews to pick one that's right for you
Framework laptops: what you need to know
You can buy your laptop pre-built from Framework and you can either customise basic things, like which ports you want, or go for a DIY model that lets you pick each individual internal component, such as processor, storage and Ram, to your exact needs.
If you go down the DIY route, you will save money as it’s cheaper if you do the assembly yourself. That's not to say you should opt to do this; assembling a computer is tricky and requires patience and precision. But Framework has attempted to simplify the process as much as possible – for instance, every component can be installed using the same screwdriver.
How easy is it to get parts for Framework laptops?
As Framework prepares to launch its second laptop, the Laptop 16, it’s worth looking back at the 13-inch model to see whether it’s living up to expectations in terms of availability of parts.
Currently, things look good as far as replacement parts for last year’s model goes. Core components seem to have excellent availability with things like motherboards, memory, storage, ports, screens, batteries and keyboards all available for quick delivery from Framework's online marketplace.
In addition, Framework recently added new parts to its roster, with a new set of speakers, an upgraded screen and even new hinges – all of which are compatible with its older models. Of course, buying them simply because you fancy an upgrade might not be particularly eco-friendly, but if the parts you are replacing are in good working order, Framework has an active community where you can trade and sell parts.
Wondering whether Framework laptops are any good? See our expert (pre-built) Framework Laptop 13 review to find out how it did in our tough lab tests
Framework versus Apple: Cost of spare parts
Another company that has started to make spares and repairs more readily available is Apple, with its Apple Self Service Repair store. Below, we’ve compared a few of the equivalent parts that both companies have available, plus some that only one or the other offers, so you can understand the costs involved.
| Spare part | Apple MacBook Air M1 | Framework |
| Ram | £509.29 for 8GB (must replace whole mainboard) | £60 (16GB) |
| Replacement storage | £509.29 for 256GB (must replace whole mainboard) | £39 (250GB) |
| Replacement processor and mainboard | £509.29 (also includes Ram and storage) | From £399 |
| Keyboard and touchpad | £37.74 for key caps + £37.74 for keyboard switches. £86.24 for touchpad + £8.45 for cable | From £99 |
| Battery | £134 + £8.71 for adhesive | From £49 |
| Screen | Not available | £179 |
Apple parts typically cost considerably more than those from Framework. And while none of these components are like-for-like as these are completely different laptops, it gives you a sense of how economical (or not) it is to repair these two laptops versus simply buying a new one.
Looking for a new laptop? Check out our expert pick of the best laptops for all budgets. If you definitely want a MacBook, we can help – see our round-up of the best MacBooks
What’s new with the Framework Laptop 16?
The recently announced Framework Laptop 16 has a 16-inch screen versus the Framework Laptop 13’s 13.5-inch screen. There are six slots to install ports, instead of four, plus an additional new ‘expansion bay’ system that lets you install and replace the graphics card.
This expansion bay will be great news for anybody looking for a gaming laptop, as it lets you pick the graphics card that’s right for the games you currently play. Which means, all being well, you can replace it later on if it no longer meets your needs.
It has never been possible to replace a laptop’s built-in graphics card. So if this works in the real world, it will be big news for gamers.
The Framework Laptop 16 will be available in late 2023 and preorders will open soon via the Framework website. Prices are to be confirmed. The Framework Laptop 13 typically costs around £1,049, although what you pay will depend on which specs you order.
Can a laptop truly be eco-friendly?
Framework makes no claims about the most environmentally harmful components in its laptops. It uses the same components from the same manufacturers you’ll find in other laptops, including all the mined precious metals and environmentally harmful chemicals present in the batteries, for example.
However, in creating a laptop that can be upgraded and repaired with readily available spare parts, Framework has reduced the likelihood that someone who owns one will simply dispose of it when its useful lifespan has ended.
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