Framework’s Linux Laptop 13 Pro Surpasses Windows Sales Milestone
Framework Computer, renowned for its modular and repairable laptop designs, has achieved a significant sales benchmark with its latest Laptop 13 model equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series processors. In a notable shift, the Linux-preloaded variant of the Framework Laptop 13 Pro is outselling its Windows counterpart, marking the first time such a reversal has occurred in the company’s sales data.
The Framework Laptop 13 Pro represents the newest iteration in Framework’s lineup, featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor as its flagship configuration. This high-performance chip delivers substantial improvements in CPU, GPU, and NPU capabilities compared to previous generations. Specifically, it offers a 73% increase in single-threaded performance, a 127% boost in multi-threaded performance, and an impressive 274% enhancement in integrated graphics performance over the prior Ryzen 7040 series. These gains position the Laptop 13 Pro as a powerhouse for demanding workloads, from content creation to AI-accelerated tasks.
What sets this laptop apart is Framework’s commitment to modularity and user upgradability. The device supports interchangeable mainboards, allowing owners to swap between Intel, AMD, or ARM architectures as future expansions become available. Storage and RAM modules are also easily replaceable, with configurations supporting up to 64GB of DDR5-5600 memory and dual M.2 2280 SSD slots for PCIe Gen4 storage. The chassis maintains the company’s signature thin-and-light profile at 13.5mm thick and 1.3kg in weight, featuring a 2,880x1,920 resolution display with 500 nits brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and touchscreen options.
Battery life has been optimized, with claims of up to 12 hours of video playback or 10 hours of office productivity on a standard 61Wh battery. Connectivity is expansive, including four USB-C ports with USB4/Thunderbolt 4 support, dual audio jacks, and expansion card slots for additional ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-A, or even 10GbE Ethernet. The keyboard and trackpad have been refined for improved typing experience and haptic feedback, respectively.
A key differentiator for the Linux edition is its pre-installed operating system. Customers can select from Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or Nobara 41, both optimized out-of-the-box for the Ryzen AI hardware. Nobara, a Fedora-based distribution tuned for gaming and content creation, includes enhancements like proprietary drivers and performance tweaks. Framework ensures full hardware compatibility, with suspend/resume functionality, webcam operation, and fingerprint reader support all verified on Linux. This seamless integration eliminates the common hurdles associated with post-purchase Linux installations on new hardware.
Sales figures underscore the growing appeal of Linux among Framework’s customer base. Pre-orders for the Laptop 13 Pro have exceeded expectations, with the Linux version accounting for over 50% of total units sold—specifically outpacing Windows by a ratio of approximately 2:1 in recent data. This surpasses previous models where Windows editions dominated, even as Linux options gained traction. Framework attributes this trend to its audience of enthusiasts, developers, and professionals who prioritize open-source ecosystems, privacy, and customization.
The company’s expansion module ecosystem further enhances the Linux experience. Users can customize I/O without voiding warranties, mixing and matching cards for specific needs. For instance, Linux users benefit from native support for high-speed networking and display outputs, crucial for multi-monitor setups in development environments.
Framework’s approach to pricing remains competitive. The base Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 configuration starts at $1,699 for Windows and $1,699 for Linux, with DIY editions offering mainboards alone from $1,099. Higher-end builds with 64GB RAM and 2TB storage push prices to around $2,299. Shipping began in late 2024 for early adopters, with broader availability ramping up through 2025.
This sales milestone highlights shifting market dynamics. Linux’s resurgence on premium, consumer-facing hardware signals increasing mainstream acceptance, particularly among users disillusioned with vendor lock-in and telemetry in proprietary OSes. Framework’s model empowers longevity, reducing e-waste and extending device lifespans through upgradability—a ethos that resonates strongly with the Linux community.
As Framework continues to iterate, future mainboards teased for 2025 promise even more powerful options, potentially including next-gen AMD Strix Point refreshes or Intel alternatives. The Laptop 13 Pro’s success validates Linux as a viable, high-performance choice for modern computing.
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