When choosing between the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and the Gateway 14.1", consider that the Framework offers better performance for general use, 3D/machine learning, and engineering tasks owing to its higher-quality processor, more RAM, and better GPU, which is essential for intensive applications. It also has a higher-resolution screen with more vibrant colors, beneficial for tasks where visual detail is important, like photo editing or design. Moreover, it features a backlit keyboard, more ports including Thunderbolt, and is designed with modularity in mind, allowing for easier upgrades and repairs.
The Gateway, however, is more budget-friendly but comes with less storage, lower RAM, and a less powerful processor which limits its capability for demanding tasks. It's more suited for basic general use like browsing, document editing, or streaming. Also, its battery life and the quality of its screen and keyboard are lower compared to the Framework Laptop. If you prioritize cost and primarily engage in light computing tasks, the Gateway may suffice. But if performance and future-proofing are key considerations for you, investing in the Framework Laptop would be beneficial. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Framework Laptop 13 (2023)
Good for general use
Good for engineering and design
Good for software development
Good for content creation
Good overall display quality
Good overall build quality
Very good speakers
Very good keyboard
Advantages of the Gateway 14.1"
The Gateway 14.1" has no clear advantages over the Framework Laptop 13 (2023).
Key differences
General Use
7.5/10
5.6/10
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1080
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
472.0 nits
DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS
208.0 nits
7.5 Hours
BATTERY LIFE
8.0 Hours
8.5/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
5.3/10
8.8/10
PORTABILITY SCORE
8.0/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is good for general use, while the Gateway 14.1" is poor.
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is equipped with a more powerful CPU, more RAM, and a higher resolution screen, which together enhance its performance, multitasking capabilities, and visual clarity, making it well-suited for general use. In contrast, the Gateway 14.1" has a less powerful CPU, less RAM, and a lower resolution screen, which may result in slower performance and less detailed visuals, diminishing its effectiveness for general tasks.
Gaming and AI
6.3/10
5.4/10
3.7/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.5/10
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1080
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
No
SUPPORTS DLSS
No
No
MUX SWITCH / ADVANCED OPTIMUS
No
7.5/10
FAN NOISE SCORE
7.0/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is only fair for gaming and AI, while the Gateway 14.1" is poor.
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) provides a fair gaming and 3D experience primarily because it has a more capable GPU, the Intel Iris Xe, and a higher resolution screen compared to the Gateway 14.1" which offers poor performance in these areas due to its weaker Intel UHD Graphics 600 and a standard full HD screen.
Engineering and Design
7.3/10
5.5/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
3.3/10
3.7/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.5/10
8.0 GB
RAM
4.0 GB
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is good for engineering and design, while the Gateway 14.1" is poor.
PerfectRec’s Engineering and Design Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for graphic design and 3D rendering work.
Content Creation
7.5/10
5.8/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
3.3/10
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1080
8.0 GB
RAM
4.0 GB
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is good for content creation, while the Gateway 14.1" is poor.
PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.
Software Development
7.6/10
5.8/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
3.3/10
8.0 GB
RAM
4.0 GB
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1080
8.5/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
5.3/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is good for software development, while the Gateway 14.1" is poor.
PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.
Screen Quality
7.4/10
6.0/10
13.5in
SIZE
14.1in
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1080
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
472.0 nits
BRIGHTNESS
208.0 nits
The Framework Laptop 13 has a better screen than the Gateway 14.1" for general use, gaming and AI, engineering and design, software development, and content creation.
The Framework Laptop 13 likely provides a clear and vibrant display suitable for tasks like browsing and watching videos, thanks to a combination of a high-resolution screen and good brightness levels. For engineering and design work, its screen probably offers a wide color range, ensuring professionals can see accurate colors for precise projects. However, for gaming and 3D applications, where a high refresh rate is crucial for smooth visuals, the Framework's display falls short, possibly leading to less fluid motion and gameplay experiences.
Portability
Very Good
Very Good
13.5in
SIZE
14.1in
2.9 lbs
WEIGHT
3.3 lbs
0.6in
THICKNESS
0.7in
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and Gateway 14.1" both have very good portability, though the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has somewhat better portability.
The most portable laptops are small, thin, and light.
Build Quality
7.8/10
5.1/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has good build quality, while the Gateway 14.1" has poor build quality.
PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.
Cost
$1,079
$99
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has a price of $1,079 and the Gateway 14.1" costs $99.
"If you’re thinking of investing in your first Framework, now is the time. The kinks and rough edges have all been smoothed out and this is a very nice machine with a bright, upgradable future. The only reason I can think of to wait is the AMD model, which I’ll be sure to test as soon as I can get my hands on one."
"The Gateway Ultra Slim 14" is surprisingly quiet with long battery life. The inexpensive Gateway excels at maximizing performance per dollar with lots of RAM and storage, super-quiet fan, and a long battery life. It can even house up to two M.2 SSDs which we weren't expecting from such a cheap system. However, the iffy reliability of the keyboard and USB-C port on our test unit means users should double-check for these potential issues immediately after purchasing."
Get a great deal on the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) or the Gateway 14.1"
About Framework
Framework is a new American laptop manufacturer, specializing in modular and repairable laptops with the goals of promoting longevity and reducing electronic waste. They are a strong proponent of the right to repair movement. Framework laptops have replaceable RAM, storage, ports, keyboards, display bezels, mainboards, and more, making them a great choice for repairability-oriented individuals.
About Gateway
Gateway is a laptop and tablet brand owned by Acer which sells budget-friendly laptops exclusively through Walmart. It was previously an American computer company until its acquisition by Acer in 2007, who then revived the brand in 2020. Gateway laptops are manufactured by Chinese company Shenzhen Bmorn Technology, which also makes EVOO-branded models.
This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec laptops team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest laptop information and makes it digestible for you.
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