I bought a Framework 13 laptop and it's a breath of fresh air.
Buying the laptop was a no-brainer, but finding a case for it wasn't as easy as it is with other laptops.
So I did the research and I found something that I really like.
This is the case I use whenever I travel.
What you won't find in this article, is a list of random cases that someone found on Amazon. I found that a lot of the cases on those lists don't actually work.
Here's why…
Why You Can't Use Just Any 13 inch Case
One unique thing about the Framework 13 is that the screen has a 3:2 aspect ratio.
Most laptops nowadays have a 16:9 aspect ratio.
That means that the Framework computers have a taller screen. Great for productivity, but not as great for finding a laptop case.
They easiest way to find a Framework 13 case is to look for cases that are compatible with Microsoft Surface tablets.
Surface tablets have a 3:2 aspect ratio. It's one of the few things that Microsoft does right.
That may change in the future, so be sure to check the specs of the laptops that are compatible with the case you are looking to purchase.
If you only look at the diagonal measurement of 13 inches, that can be deceiving because the length and width could be different.
Here's a perfect example, I tried to fit my Framework 13 into a case for my 14 inch MacBook Pro. Again, if you only look at the diagonal measurement, then the Framework should fit, with room to spare.
But in reality, here's what it looks like. I can get it to fit, if I shove it in, but it's really tight and not ideal.
After I discovered this, I looked around and this is what I bought.
My Favorite Framework 13 Case
I use is the tomtoc 360° Laptop Sleeve for the 13.5″ to 14.4″ Surface Studio and Surface Book.
Here's the fit…perfect.
On top of the great fit and protection, it also comes in some cool colors. Most laptop cases come in the boring black…or the even more boring gray.
Yes, tomtoc has black and gray too, but they also have some other fun colors that aren't too weird.
There are a lot of laptop cases out there that have just way too much going on. They have 50 pockets, 2 sets of handles and a cup holder.
I'm half joking of course, but you get my meaning.
One of the best things about this case is that it has one zippered pocket to hold a few cables, a cleaning cloth, or charger.
That's it.
Great protection and no unnecessary features.
To find the current pricing, check here. You might also be able to find it cheaper on eBay.
How to Find the Best Case For You
This case is my personal preference. It's excellent, but you might be looking for something different.
Maybe you want a hardshell case, something made by a specific brand or a case that's more like a briefcase.
If so, then look for a case for a laptop that has a 3:2 aspect ratio and a 13.5 to 14.4 inch diagonal measurement.
Some online case listings may not show you the internal length/width/height of the case. But if they do, the Framework 13 has the following measurements:
- Length: 9 in / 22.86 cm
- Width: 11.75 in / 29.84 cm
- Height: 0.375 in / 0.95 cm
Just look for a case that has about the same internal measurements.
Final Thoughts
So that's the case that I use for the Framework 13 laptop. It's durable, portable…and relatively inexpensive.
Even if you don't like the case I use, I've given you the fastest way to find the best case for you.
Now go find the perfect case for you.
