The Framework Laptop 12 is back with a major hardware and software upgrade. Framework has updated its 12-inch convertible laptop, introducing new Intel Core Series 3 (“Wildcat Lake”) processors, additional hardware customization options, and — for the first time on this model — a pre-installed version of Linux. The cheapest pre-built configuration starts at $699, $100 less than the previous version, and pre-orders are now open with shipments expected in October.
Framework has built its reputation around a simple but revolutionary idea: laptops shouldn’t be consumable. Since its founding, the company has focused on modularity — users can replace the motherboard, ports , storage, memory, display, and battery, rather than treating the device as something to be thrown away when it gets old. The Framework Laptop 12 is the smallest convertible model in the ecosystem, and the new refresh follows the same pattern of incremental platform upgrades without a complete redesign.
See also: Framework announces Laptop 13 Pro for Linux users
The base pre-built configuration is available only in green and includes an Intel Core 3 304, 8GB of RAM , and 512GB of storage. It comes pre-installed with Linux Fedora 44 KDE Plasma — a choice that arose from the fact that almost 80% of Laptop 12 owners already use Linux in various distributions. Of course, there is the option to choose Windows 11 Home instead of Linux, but that increases the price by $ 100.
Framework Laptop 12: Technical specifications and Intel Core Series 3 processors
The company claims that the Core Series 3 is "designed specifically for smaller, low-power, entry-level laptops," improving battery life, temperatures, and fan noise.
In terms of memory and storage, the updated model supports up to 64GB of LPDDR5-6400 memory with speeds of up to 6,400 MT/s — a significant improvement over the previous generation. It's worth noting that the base configuration with 8GB of RAM is now considered mediocre for Windows, although for Linux it remains functional enough for most uses.
See also: Microsoft: Surface Pro 12 and Surface Laptop 8 with Intel processors are coming
On the ports front, the upgrade brings Wi-Fi 7 R2 and Thunderbolt 4 support to the two rear Expansion Card, allowing for the connection of two 4K 60Hz or external GPUs (eGPUs). One minor downgrade is that the two front USB ports are now USB 3.2 Gen 2, but Framework clarifies that all four ports support charging.
Framework Laptop 12: Choosing Linux and Buying Repairable Laptops
The inclusion of the Framework Laptop 12 with Fedora 44 KDE Plasma Linux is one of the company's most significant steps towards the mainstream audience. Framework has always been friendly to Linux as a DIY option, but offering a ready-made system with Linux pre-installed significantly lowers the barrier to entry for developers, students, and enthusiasts who want a ready-to-use open-source system without having to assemble it themselves.
See also: Framework Laptop 13 Pro: Less RAM due to price crisis
New hardware features also include a fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard — additions that make the Framework Laptop 12 more competitive against mainstream 2-in-1 devices.
The next critical test for Framework is execution: whether the October arrive on time and whether battery life, temperatures, and real-world performance live up to promises. If the new Intel platform delivers the expected efficiency gains, Framework can position the Framework Laptop 12 against mainstream 2-in-1s not only on repairability, but also on battery life.
