Framework refreshes 12-inch laptop with new Intel chips, Linux option, and lower starting price
Framework has updated its 12-inch convertible laptop with Intel Core Series 3 processors, a pre-built Linux option, and a $699 starting price, $100 less than before.
The pre-built base configuration is only available in green and includes an Intel Core 3 304 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. It comes preloaded with Linux Fedora 44 KDE Plasma, a decision made after Framework found that almost 80 percent of Laptop 12 owners are already running Linux across a range of distros. Customers can still configure the updated laptop with Microsoft’s Windows 11 Home, but doing so increases the price by $100.
Framework says the Core Series 3 is purpose built for smaller, lower-power, entry-priced laptops and should improve battery life, temperatures, and fan noise on the more powerful chip options. However, The Verge notes that the Core 3 304 chip only has one performance core, and the only laptop they tested with this Intel Wildcat Lake processor left them bitterly disappointed.
The chip update allows for internal hardware and port improvements, including higher DDR5 memory speeds of up to 6400 MT/s, Wi-Fi 7 R2, and Thunderbolt 4 support for the rear two Expansion Card slots, which enables plugging in two 4K 60Hz displays or eGPUs. One downgrade is that the front two USB slots are now only USB 3.2 Gen 2, but Framework says all four slots still support power input for charging.
For all Core 5 and Core 7 configurations, the Laptop 12 now includes a fingerprint reader built into the power button and a backlit keyboard as standard. The illuminated keyboard is also available as an optional customization on the DIY Edition of the Laptop 12, which starts at $549 and offers more color options compared to the pre-built version. The original Laptop 12 using 13th Gen Intel Core chips remains available, with prices starting at $699 for the pre-built version or $499 for the DIY Edition.