Framework from an Accessibility Standpoint

[M_H]

Linux Mint 21.3 | Framework 13, 11th Gen Intel

Hello all!

I just wanted to share my thoughts on the Framework after having it for about 2 weeks, from a disability and accessibility standpoint.

The assembly went fine- I have some fine motor/dexterity/strength issues with my hands, and everything was easy to do accept the Wifi install. I would have asked for help, but I was alone at the time so I struggled though it and got it done after a half hour. (I also did not destroy the contacts on the wifi in the process, which I was legit concerned about, as I had read that’s an issue other (presumably able bodied) people had)

On the assembled laptop: I think the size is quite well balanced between portability, weight, and a large enough screen. I’ve had no trouble carrying it around naked, but do have a heavy duty hardshell case that I use when I’m traveling longer distances with it. I like the one finger open, I’ve never had a laptop that did that. For short typing sessions, the keyboard is a good size and keeps my hands and wrists in reasonable positions, but I do still plug in my full size keyboard for longer periods. My biggest issues are with the touchpad and expansion slots. The touchpad can have trouble detecting my fingers when they are cold when other laptops I’ve had have no issues. However, I like uses an external mouse anyway, so it’s not a big deal for me. If I really wanted to, playing around in the sensitivity settings could probably help, but I haven’t done that yet. The expansion cards though are a beast to get out the first one or two times though. I ended up using the flat end of the screwdriver to give me some more leverage to push them out, which is working well.

The only big things that the laptop is missing at the moment for my own accesibilty standpoint is a touch screen, but it’s something I can work around. Right now I’m in a period where my symptoms are pretty well controlled, but when pain is bad enough that typing or moving a mouse is painful, a touchscreen is a lifesaver for me.

Overall, I’m very happy with choosing a Framework! I’d love to hear anyone elses thoughts on the topic <3

[Destroya]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! If there are any actionable feedbacks you’d like to share (about unboxing, installation, laptop, parts, or the guides) please let me know!

[M_H]

Just found this really insightful post on the ergomics of the FW 16’s keyboard and body, specifically comparing it to Thinkpads.

Ergonomics

Hello all, as far as I can tell, this seems to be the best place to post this, although given the tags I have to select, and it is hard to find fitting ones, I am not entirely sure. I first heard of Framework back in 2021 on LTT. This was the first time ever since my first laptop that I even interested in the product because of its modular approach. But I was quickly turned of by some of the design, I will explain shortly. Now, I work for a company that sells the laptops, so I have had them i…

[Kyle_Reis]

@M_H

everything was easy to do accept the Wifi install.

The Wi-Fi install is tedious even for people without any motor control issues.

On newer models Framework has made the Wi-Fi pre-installed and they also have a new bracket to make it easier (for upgrades).

@M_H

touch screen

The motherboard is equipped with support for a touchscreen connector and touchscreen is one of the most commonly requested features so I expect it will probably be an option in the future.

[amoun]

@M_H

the FW 16’s keyboard

This is about the 13" which the OP has said

@M_H

I think the size is quite well balanced between portability, weight, and a large enough screen.

So I’m not sure what the ergonomics of the 16" may add in this instance ??

@Kyle_Reis

I expect it will probably be an option in the future

That’s been a few years of dreams and not a hint of it in the wind

[Martin_Alpers]

@amoun

So I’m not sure what the ergonomics of the 16" may add in this instance ??

Hello, I am the author of the post that M_H is referring to. Not sure how clear it is, but it was not meant to be an exclusive 16" post. Some of it is, but most of it applies to both models. The larger keyboard layout is the same between both models, except the optional numpad part. That is the beauty of modularity.