The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is more expensive and has less storage and memory than the Lenovo Flex 5 16, which offers better value for money. The Framework is smaller and lighter, making it more portable compared to the heavier Flex 5 with a larger screen. Performance-wise, the Framework has a lower-tier CPU compared to the Lenovo's more powerful i7 processor. The Framework has a higher battery capacity, but the Lenovo claims longer battery life, possibly due to more efficient power management. Consequently, the Framework may suit those who prioritize portability and build quality, while the Lenovo is better for users needing more power and longer usage times. 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)
Very good portability
Very good speakers
Very good keyboard
Advantages of the Lenovo Flex 5 16
Very good battery life
Key differences
Screen Quality
7.4/10
7.3/10
13.5in
SIZE
16.0in
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
2560 x 1600
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
472.0 nits
BRIGHTNESS
400.0 nits
The Framework Laptop 13 and the Lenovo Flex 5 16 have similar screen quality.
The Framework Laptop 13 offers a high-resolution display with ample brightness and a panel type known for sharp images and vivid colors, meeting general use and engineering requirements, but its standard refresh rate limits its appeal for 3D applications where smoother motion is crucial. The Lenovo Flex 5 16 provides a similar visual experience with a display that works well for everyday tasks and professional design work, boasting accurate color reproduction necessary for precise engineering tasks. However, like the Framework, it falls short for gaming or any 3D-intensive activities due to a refresh rate that doesn't match the higher standards demanded by such use cases.
Battery
7.5 Hours
11.5 Hours
The Framework Laptop 13 has 7.5 hours of battery life. The Lenovo Flex 5 16 has 11.5 hours of battery life.
Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.
Portability
Very Good
Good
13.5in
SIZE
16.0in
2.9 lbs
WEIGHT
4.6 lbs
0.6in
THICKNESS
0.7in
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has very good portability, while the Lenovo Flex 5 16 has good portability.
The most portable laptops are small, thin, and light.
Build Quality
7.8/10
7.0/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and Lenovo Flex 5 16 both have good build quality, though the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has somewhat better build quality.
PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.
Cost
$1,079
$740
$200
$400
$600
$800
$1,000
$1,200
$1,400
$1,600
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) has a price of $1,079 and the Lenovo Flex 5 16 costs $740.
The Lenovo Flex 5 16 and Framework Laptop 13 (2023) are both good for general use.
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) with its lightweight design and smaller screen size provides more portability and a sharp display that enhances user experience in everyday tasks, though it has less storage and RAM compared to its counterpart.
Gaming and AI
6.3/10
6.2/10
3.7/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.7/10
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
2560 x 1600
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
No
SUPPORTS DLSS
No
No
MUX SWITCH / ADVANCED OPTIMUS
No
7.5/10
FAN NOISE SCORE
7.5/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and Lenovo Flex 5 16 are both only fair for gaming and AI.
Both the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and the Lenovo Flex 5 16 are equipped with integrated graphics rather than dedicated gaming GPUs, and both have screen refresh rates capped at the standard 60Hz, which is sufficient for basic gaming but not ideal for fast-paced action where higher refresh rates can provide smoother motion and a competitive edge. Despite their adequate CPU performance and decent screen quality, the absence of more powerful gaming-focused graphic processors and higher refresh rates means these laptops are better suited for casual gaming and 3D tasks, not for meeting the demands of more intensive gaming sessions.
Engineering and Design
7.3/10
7.2/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.9/10
3.7/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.7/10
8.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and Lenovo Flex 5 16 are both good for engineering and design.
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
7.6/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.9/10
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
2560 x 1600
8.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
The Lenovo Flex 5 16 and Framework Laptop 13 (2023) are both good for content creation.
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
7.5/10
7.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.9/10
8.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
2256 x 1504
RESOLUTION
2560 x 1600
8.5/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
7.0/10
The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and Lenovo Flex 5 16 are both good for software development.
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.
Give feedback
We’re constantly working to improve.
How the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) and the Lenovo Flex 5 16 compare to other laptops
"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 Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 is a solidly equipped, 2-in-1 in the lower price segment. Performance is definitely sufficient for everyday tasks and in tests the battery proved itself to be very economical. That aside, there is a lot of standard fare on show and a search for real highlights ends in vain. The low color coverage and reflective display can be avoided by going for an optional 2.5K display but this also presumably results in poorer battery life. The cooling uses only one fan and leads to a raised temperature on one side of the device under load. Additionally, there is very loud fan noise, also under load or when gaming. On top of that, we also occasionally noticed electronic noises."
Get a great deal on the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) or the Lenovo Flex 5 16
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 Lenovo
Lenovo is a Chinese technology company, and one of the largest personal computer vendor. They are well known for a variety of technology products, including laptops. Their consumer series include their entry level IdeaPad and LOQ series and mid-to-high-end Yoga and Legion series. On the business-oriented side, their series include their entry-level ThinkBook series and mid-to-high-end ThinkPad series. Lenovo laptops offer strong performance for reasonable prices, and are often on sale.
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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