TL;DR
The author sold a 2021 M1 Max MacBook Pro and purchased a Framework 13 DIY Edition, motivated by a long history of modifying laptops and a desire for repairability and upgradeability. The decision followed a period of observing Framework's development, an AMD refresh of the 13, and a friend's positive report.
What happened
The writer, who describes themselves as a habitual laptop tinkerer, recently sold a 2021 M1 Max MacBook Pro and bought a Framework 13 DIY Edition. They trace a history of hardware modifications back to a 2008 Samsung NC10 netbook — swapping drives, adding RAM, making it a Hackintosh and later running lightweight Linux distributions — and to a 2011 MacBook Pro where they added drives and triple-booted macOS, Windows and Linux. They later owned a Lenovo Gen 7 X1 Carbon but found it largely unmodifiable. A HubSpot severance brought a relatively new M1 Max machine into their hands, which they used briefly before deciding to buy the Framework. The author waited for Framework to mature and for a couple of product iterations; factors that pushed them to buy included the Framework 13 refresh with new AMD chips, portability compared with larger laptops, the MacBook's residual resale value, and a friend's recommendation. They highlight Framework’s user-replaceable RAM, storage and display components as central attractions.
Why it matters
- Framework promotes repairability and user upgrades at a time when many mainstream laptops are less serviceable.
- Modular designs can extend device lifespans and appeal to users who like to modify hardware or avoid frequent full replacements.
- The choice reflects a broader interest in computing environments where owners control hardware and software choices.
Key facts
- Author sold a 2021 M1 Max MacBook Pro and bought a Framework 13 DIY Edition.
- The author has a long history of modifying laptops, beginning with a 2008 Samsung NC10 netbook.
- On older machines the author upgraded RAM, swapped HDDs for SSDs, and experimented with Hackintosh and Linux installations.
- A 2011 MacBook Pro used by the author was modified with dual drives and configured to triple-boot macOS, Windows and Linux.
- The author briefly owned a Lenovo Gen 7 X1 Carbon but found it largely unmodifiable and used it without hardware changes.
- The 2021 MacBook received via severance was noted as having limited repairability in an iFixit review (initially scored 4/10, later updated to 5/10 after Apple released parts and a service manual).
- Factors that influenced the Framework purchase included a refreshed Framework 13 with new AMD chips, better portability compared with a 16-inch laptop, resale value for the MacBook, and a friend’s positive judgment.
- The author lists being able to change RAM, SSD and repair the screen among Framework’s practical advantages.
What to watch next
- How Framework’s parts availability and long-term service evolve as the platform matures.
- Whether broader laptop makers adopt more repairable, modular designs over time.
- not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- DIY Edition: A laptop configuration sold with components intended for user assembly, repair or upgrade rather than a fully factory-assembled system.
- Repairability: A measure of how easily a device can be opened, serviced, or have components replaced by users or technicians.
- SSD: Solid-state drive, a storage device that uses flash memory and generally offers faster performance than traditional hard disk drives.
- RAM: Random-access memory — volatile memory used by a computer to hold data for active processes.
- Hackintosh: A non-Apple computer configured to run macOS through unofficial methods.
Reader FAQ
Did the author install Linux on the Framework 13?
not confirmed in the source
Why did the author choose the Framework 13?
They cited repairability and upgradeability, a recent AMD refresh of the Framework 13, better portability than larger laptops, resale value for the MacBook, and a friend's positive recommendation.
Was the 2021 M1 Max MacBook Pro kept?
No — the author sold the 2021 M1 Max MacBook Pro.
Can you change RAM and storage on Framework laptops?
According to the author, Framework laptops allow users to change RAM and SSDs and also make some screen repairs easier.
Aug 29, 2025 Framework I'm a laptop weirdo and that's why I like my new Framework 13 It turns out I've always done weird things to my laptops. This month…
Sources
- I'm a laptop weirdo and that's why I like my new Framework 13
- Farewell Framework – General Topics
- Why I Bought A Framework Laptop
- Apple M1 Pro/Max announced – General Topics
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