Is the Framework 13 with Intel Lunar Lake worth it? How I finally got mine shipped to China
Table of Contents
- My dream of a modular laptop in 2026
- Why I think the Intel Core Ultra Series 2 changes everything
- Why I bought from the US instead of waiting
- How I used BuyForMe to avoid order cancellations
- My estimated shipping and weight breakdown
- How I handled my China delivery and customs
- My final verdict on the import process
My dream of a modular laptop in 2026
I have spent years looking for a laptop that does not end up in a landfill just because one port breaks or the battery dies. By early 2026, the Framework Laptop 13 has become more than just a niche experiment; it is a serious professional machine. However, getting one in China is still surprisingly difficult. I wanted the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 (Lunar Lake) model, but since the brand focuses on specific regions, I had to find my own way to get it here.
I decided to document my experience because I know many of you are asking if it is actually worth the extra steps. From my perspective, the ability to swap out a USB-C port for a MicroSD expansion card in seconds is worth a little bit of logistics planning. When I started looking for a freight forwarder, I found comGateway offered the most reliable tax-free us address to start the process.
Why I think the Intel Core Ultra Series 2 changes everything
We have seen a lot of chips come and go, but the Lunar Lake architecture in 2026 is a massive leap for the Framework 13. My main concern with modular laptops used to be battery life and heat, but this new Intel series handles efficiency much better. I get through a full workday without reaching for my charger, which was almost unheard of for thin-and-light modular builds a few years ago.
The performance is snappy for my coding projects and light video editing. Plus, Framework has refined the chassis. It feels more premium than the early versions. I love that I can buy the mainboard separately in the future, but for 2026, this Core Ultra Series 2 is the sweet spot for power and portability.
Why I bought from the US instead of waiting
You might wonder why I did not just wait for a local reseller. The truth is, US stores always get the newest expansion cards and keyboard layouts first. I specifically wanted the clear spacer set and the new haptic trackpad module that were only available on the US Framework store at launch. By using an international shipping service like this one, I managed to get the exact configuration I wanted without settling for whatever was left in local stock.
Buying from the US also allows me to access the modular ecosystem much cheaper. Even with shipping costs, the direct conversion often works out better than the inflated prices I see on secondary markets here in China.
How I used BuyForMe to avoid order cancellations
This is a crucial part of my story. I tried to use my local credit card on the Framework website, but the order was flagged almost immediately. Many US-based tech companies have strict fraud filters that block international cards or orders sent to known shipping hubs. It is incredibly frustrating when you are just trying to buy a laptop.
I solved this by using the comGateway "BuyForMe" service. Essentially, I told them what I wanted, and they used a US domestic credit card to make the purchase on my behalf. This is the safest way I found to guarantee that my order did not get cancelled. If you are worried about your payment being rejected, I highly recommend this assisted purchase option. It saved me a lot of headaches and multiple support emails.
My estimated shipping and weight breakdown
Before I committed, I had to know what the damage would be for my wallet. I used the shipping calculator on their site to get a rough idea. Here is what I found for the Framework 13 (2026 edition):
| Factor | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Box Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) including packaging |
| Box Dimensions | Medium (approx. 16 x 13 x 4 inches) |
| Volumetric Warning | Low. Laptops are dense, so actual weight usually applies. |
| Battery Check | Contains a Lithium-ion battery. Requires special handling labels. |
Because the laptop contains a battery, there are specific rules for international shipping. Most couriers are fine with it as long as the battery is installed inside the device, but it is always good to check the FAQ for the latest dangerous goods regulations. My package was handled safely without any delays regarding the battery.
How I handled my China delivery and customs
Getting my China delivery sorted here was the final hurdle. When you buy from US ship to China, you have to be mindful of import duties. I made sure to declare the item accurately. Framework laptops are clearly categorized as personal computers, which helps when the package reaches customs in cities like Shanghai or Shenzhen.
I found that choosing a tracked shipping option gave me peace of mind. Watching my Lunar Lake laptop move from Oregon to China was the most exciting part of my week. The package arrived in great condition, with the original Framework box tucked safely inside a larger, sturdier shipping container provided by the forwarder.
My final verdict on the import process
So, is it worth it? If you are a tech enthusiast who values repairability and the latest Intel 2026 silicon, then yes, absolutely. The process of using a US address and an assisted purchase service might seem like a lot of steps, but it is the only way to get this specific hardware in China right now. I am currently typing this on my new Framework 13, and the keyboard feels amazing. If you have more questions about the logistics, the help center or support team at your forwarder can usually clarify things. For me, the modular freedom was worth every mile it traveled.
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