Framework Laptop 12 vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Framework Laptop 12 is the better pick — it scores 53/100 to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)'s 50, leading on Memory and Storage. Choose the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) instead if processor and integrated graphics matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Performance is scored from the laptop's CPU and GPU; few laptops have a published whole-system benchmark.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Framework Laptop 12 and Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) are closely matched

Framework Laptop 12

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

Where Framework Laptop 12 stands out

Memory capacity: 16 GB (100% more)
Storage capacity: 512 GB (100% more)
Battery Maximum charge power: 60 W (100% more)

Where Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) stands out

Processor model: Apple M1
Integrated graphics model: Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Memory Technology: Unified

Watch-outs

Compromises to know before you buy

Framework Laptop 12

No keyboard backlight — hard to type in the dark.

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
Storage isn't user-upgradeable.
60 Hz panel — less smooth than 120 Hz+ rivals.
No HDMI — you'll need a dongle for projectors/TVs.

Winner by category for Framework Laptop 12 vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Category	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)	Winner
Processor	35	47	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Integrated Graphics	23	43	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Discrete Graphics	0	0	Tie
Memory	76	36	Framework Laptop 12
Storage	86	17	Framework Laptop 12
Display	45	70	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Sound	71	72	Tie
Webcam	80	20	Framework Laptop 12
Battery	53	47	Framework Laptop 12
Connectivity	74	67	Framework Laptop 12
Input	4	96	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Ports	83	67	Framework Laptop 12
Design & Weight	49	51	Tie
Security	4	63	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Performance	46	45	Tie

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Framework Laptop 12

The Framework Laptop 12 is a compact 12.2-inch convertible 2-in-1 notebook powered by Intel Core Series 3 processors. Designed with repairability and user customizability at its core, it features stylus support alongside strong out-of-the-box Linux compatibility. Modern hardware options include Thunderbolt 4 connectivity as well as configurable choices for a backlit keyboard and biometric fingerprint scanner.

Best for Buyers seeking a highly repairable 2-in-1 compact laptop with dedicated Linux suBest for Users needing a versatile convertible device for note-taking and mobile work wit

Pros

Highly modular and repairable 12.2-inch convertible form factor with stylus support
Equipped with Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for flexible expansion and high-speed data transfer
First-class, official Linux compatibility alongside optional hardware features like a fingerprint reader

Cons

The 12.2-inch display form factor offers less screen real estate for intensive multi-window productivity

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

The 2020 Apple MacBook Air is a thin-and-light 13.3-inch laptop designed primarily for everyday productivity and general consumer use. This model year represents a major transition point, featuring an early-year release with 10th Gen Intel processors and a late-year version powered by Apple's custom fanless M1 system-on-a-chip. Key features include a high-resolution Retina display, a robust physical construction, and a silent internal design.

Best for working in quiet environments like libraries or officesBest for all-day battery life at moderate display brightness settingsBest for lightweight travel and everyday multi-tasking

Pros

Completely silent operation thanks to a fanless thermal design
Highly responsive system performance driven by the custom M1 chip
High-quality display featuring a wide P3 color gamut and True Tone technology
Comfortable typing experience with the updated keyboard design

Cons

Restricted physical connectivity with only two USB-C ports
Limited external display support, allowing only one external monitor
Lower-resolution 720p FaceTime webcam
Permanently soldered storage and memory that cannot be upgraded by the user

Source

MacBook Air (Apple silicon) - WikipediaProvides detailed technical specifications, display capabilities, performance limitations, and hardware reception for the M1 model.

Video — reviews used (2)

Provides historical context on the early 2020 Intel-based release, noting the upgraded keyboard and storage configurations.

Generated Jun 30, 2026

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Framework Laptop 12

Check Price on Amazon

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

Check Price on Amazon

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Framework Laptop 1212,967

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)14,121

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Battery capacity

Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life

Framework Laptop 1250 Wh

Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)49.9 Wh

Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.

Physical Comparison

Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D

Framework Laptop 12Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)

Framework Laptop 12 is 0.01 kg (1%) heavier than Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1).

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Processor

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Processor model

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Integrated graphics model

Memory

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Memory capacity	16 GB100% more	8 GB
Technology
Memory upgradeable	Yes	No

Storage

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Storage capacity	512 GB100% more	256 GB
Socket type		N/A
PCIe version	N/A	N/A
Storage upgradeable	Yes	No

Display

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Size	12.2 in	13.3 in9% more
Display resolution	1920 × 1200 px	2560 × 1600 px
Aspect ratio	16:10	16:10
Refresh rate	N/A	60 Hz
Response time	N/A	N/A
Display type
Brightness	400 nits	400 nits
Has pen support	Yes	No
Has touch support	Yes	No
Screen-to-body ratio	70%	79%

Sound

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Number of speakers	2	2
Power	4 W	N/A
Has Dolby Atmos	N/A	Yes
Number of microphones	2	3

Webcam

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Webcam resolution	1920 × 1080 px	1280 × 720 px

Battery

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Battery capacity	50 Wh	49.9 Wh
Maximum charge power	60 W100% more	30 W

Connectivity

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Wi-Fi technology
Bluetooth technology	N/A

Input

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Has a backlit keyboard	No	Yes
Has a numpad	N/A	No

Ports

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
USB Type A	N/A	0
USB Type C	4	2
Thunderbolt technology	N/A
Has an HDMI port	N/A	No
Has a card reader	N/A	No
Has a headphone jack	Yes	Yes

Design & Weight

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Color
Dimensions	28.7 × 21.388 × 1.845 cm	30.41 × 21.24 × 1.61 cm
Weight	1.3 kg	1.29 kg

Security

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
Has a fingerprint scanner	No	Yes
Has infrared face recognition support	N/A	No

Performance

Feature	Framework Laptop 12	Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1)
PassMark CPU Mark	12,967	14,1219% more
Active cooling	N/A	No
Release Date	June 18, 2025	November 17, 2020

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Framework Laptop 12 vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Framework Laptop 12 rates higher at 38/100 versus 30/100 for Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) — a 8-point lead. Framework Laptop 12 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Framework Laptop 12 and Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) are compared side by side above across every spec in the laptops category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 38/100 for Framework Laptop 12 and 30/100 for Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1).

If you want the higher-rated laptops option overall, Framework Laptop 12 (38/100) edges out Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) (30/100). But if Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.