When choosing between the Framework Laptop 16 (2023) and the Lenovo ThinkPad P16, consider that the Framework model offers the advantage of easy repairs and upgrades due to its modular design, potentially extending its use over time, while the ThinkPad P16 is recognized for its robust build and is frequently favored by professionals for heavy-duty computing tasks. Although the ThinkPad might deliver superior performance for demanding work such as engineering and 3D rendering, the Framework's design allows a level of customization which can be appealing to those who prioritize longevity and personalization in their tech. If budget is a concern, despite the Framework being more expensive upfront, its upgradability may lead to cost savings in the future. However, the ThinkPad typically provides a reliable workstation experience out of the box, making it a go-to for immediate high-performance needs. 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 16 (2023)
Good portability
Best in class speakers
Advantages of the Lenovo ThinkPad P16
Very good battery life
Excellent keyboard
Key differences
Screen Quality
8.4/10
8.2/10
16.0in
SIZE
16.0in
2560 x 1600
RESOLUTION
3840 x 2400
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
165Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
490.0 nits
BRIGHTNESS
569.0 nits
The Framework Laptop 16 has a better screen than the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 for gaming and AI, while the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 has a better screen for engineering and design, and content creation.
For general use, both the Framework Laptop 16 and the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 offer panels with high resolution and brightness, ensuring clear and vibrant visuals essential for everyday tasks. In engineering and design, their screens excel by covering a wide range of colors, which is crucial for professionals needing precision in color-critical work. However, for gaming and 3D applications, their lower refresh rates result in less fluid motion, making them less suitable for the fast-paced visuals that these activities often demand.
Portability
Good
Poor
16.0in
SIZE
16.0in
4.6 lbs
WEIGHT
6.5 lbs
0.7in
THICKNESS
1.2in
The Framework Laptop 16 (2023) has good portability, while the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 has poor portability.
The most portable laptops are small, thin, and light.
Cost
$1,699
$1,449
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
$3,000
The Framework Laptop 16 (2023) has a price of $1,699 and the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 costs $1,449.
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) are both very good for general use.
The Framework Laptop 16 provides an excellent screen, good portability, and a balance of performance and battery life for everyday tasks, complemented by a modular design allowing for easy upgrades and repairs. The Lenovo ThinkPad P16, while heavier and with a shorter battery life, offers robust performance through a superior CPU and RAM, and a high-quality screen and keyboard, tailor-made for demanding engineering applications and heavy multitasking.
Gaming and AI
6.8/10
6.9/10
4.0/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
4.5/10
2560 x 1600
RESOLUTION
3840 x 2400
165Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
No
SUPPORTS DLSS
Yes
No
MUX SWITCH / ADVANCED OPTIMUS
No
7.5/10
FAN NOISE SCORE
7.5/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) are both only fair for gaming and AI.
The Framework Laptop 16, equipped with a dedicated GPU and high refresh rate screen, delivers smooth visuals essential for gaming and 3D applications; however, its performance is on par with the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 which also boasts strong graphics capabilities and a quality display but may have a slightly more robust CPU that could enhance performance in demanding tasks. Both offer solid choices for gaming and 3D work, but the Framework's design leans more towards modularity and user upgrades while the ThinkPad P16 traditionally offers outstanding durability and keyboard comfort.
Engineering and Design
8.1/10
8.3/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
9.6/10
4.0/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
4.5/10
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) are both very good for engineering and design.
The Framework Laptop 16 is designed for customization, allowing engineers and designers to upgrade the CPU, RAM, and GPU to keep up with demanding software, while its high-resolution screen makes detailed work more precise. The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 typically comes with robust processing power and excellent screen quality but is heavier, making it less portable, though its keyboard is well-regarded for comfort during long work sessions.
Content Creation
8.1/10
8.2/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
9.6/10
2560 x 1600
RESOLUTION
3840 x 2400
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) are both very 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
8.0/10
8.4/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
9.6/10
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
2560 x 1600
RESOLUTION
3840 x 2400
8.0/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
9.0/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) are both very 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.
Battery
9.0 Hours
10.0 Hours
The Framework Laptop 16 has 9 hours of battery life. The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 has 10 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.
Build Quality
8.0/10
8.5/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 and Framework Laptop 16 (2023) both have very good build quality.
PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.
Give feedback
We’re constantly working to improve.
How the Framework Laptop 16 (2023) and the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 compare to other laptops
"The trend towards thinner and lighter laptops is made possible by fusing more and more components onto the mainboard. The main drawback to this approach is that it limits repairability as even a small fault may require replacing entire boards. Framework is one of the only manufacturers looking the other way in an attempt to improve end-user customization and servicing. There's no question that the Laptop 16 is more user-friendly to service than any alternative, but this lucrative feature comes at the cost of size and weight as individual components must be easily replaceable."
"It's only a few months since we gave the MSI CreatorPro X17 one of our rare 4.5-star ratings and our top mobile workstation honor, but the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 1 matches that achievement in a more premium overall build. Ultimately, its build quality, screen, and keyboard give our latest Editors' Choice nod to the Lenovo—it's enough of a monster on almost all fronts that it simply cannot be ignored."
Get a great deal on the Framework Laptop 16 (2023) or the Lenovo ThinkPad P16
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.
By the numbers
380
Laptops evaluated
48,640
Laptops stats compiled
13
Proprietary Laptops ratings developed
98,295
Recommendations made
21,298
Consumer hours saved
About the laptop team
Joe Golden, Ph.D
CEO and Laptops Editor
Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Jason Lew
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Jason is a staff expert and software engineer that has been making laptop recommendations for 7 years and moderates one of the largest laptop subreddits.
Chandradeep Chowdhury
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Chandradeep is a staff expert and software engineer and expert in televisions and monitors. He’s been making monitor recommendations for ten years.
Craig Russell
Laptops Expert
Craig is a UK-based laptops expert. Craig works in IT, where he recommends and supports laptops and PCs for clients and has been recommending laptops on Reddit for five years.