I have a Framework 13 personal laptop and a work-provided MacBook Pro. I'd put them at about the same level when it comes to build quality: the Framework doesn't feel quite as streamlined (it's still very sleek!), while the MacBook has developed a finicky USB-C port that can't be easily repaired. Both of those issues come down to the design tradeoffs the two companies have made.

If you'd run Asahi anyways, seriously consider a Framework. You'll get much more for your money, and they have people on staff dedicated to providing a good Linux experience.

How's the battery life compare?

I haven't used it on battery much, but the Framework definitely seems adequate. I have the AMD version, which is apparently much better than Intel. It's not going to compete with the M1 in my MacBook, but it's enough that I don't have to think about it.

Not GP, but I also have a Framework 13 AMD and a MacBook Pro M2 for work. The battery life of the Framework is worse, but I still easily get 9+ hours with it. To me that’s plenty, so battery isn’t even something I think about anymore.

Could you share if you have the ryzen 5 or 7 variant, and what OS you're running? I get closer to 6 hours on my FW13 (R7, Windows 10 LTSC).

I have the Ryzen 7 with NixOS unstable.