The Framework Laptop 12 just got a welcome upgrade, particularly if you prefer Linux to Windows.Framework has updated its more affordable PC with not just Intel's newer Core Series 3 chips, but an option to have Linux pre-installed.The new 12-inch convertible can ship with Fedora 44 KDE Plasma Desktop ready to go, with Framework promising an "excellent" experience that doesn't require extra setup.
Other Linux distros should work once the PC ships, including Bazzite and CachyOS, but they'll need at least the 7.1 kernel to support the new CPU and Wi-Fi 7 radio.Framework Laptop 12 Operating System Windows 11, Linux, or bare-bones CPU Intel Core 3, Core 5, or Core 7 The Framework Laptop 12 is a modular, 2-in-1 convertible with options to run Linux and Windows.$699 at Framework Expand Collapse The decision was obvious, according to the company: nearly 80% of Laptop 12 buyers are running some form of Linux.
Fedora just streamlines that process.Core Series 3, meanwhile, is pitched more as an upgrade to efficiency than performance.It's not as fast as the Core Ultra Series 3 in the Laptop 13 Pro, but Framework claims a 70% jump in Netflix 4K streaming battery life for a Core 5 320 model compared to the original with a Core i5-1334U.
You also get up to 64GB of faster DDR5 memory.The new Intel part also enables Thunderbolt 4 support for the two rear expansion slots, although you'll be relegated to USB 3.2 Gen 2 for the two front slots.A fingerprint reader is now built into every Laptop 12 with a Core 5 or Core 7 processor, although you'll have to choose Linux if you want a backlit keyboard in US English.
The touchscreen with pen support remains intact, as does Framework's signature modularity.You can even upgrade the original Laptop 12 piece-by-piece to the new version if you're determined.Framework Laptop 12 with Linux: price and release date It could be worth the wait The updated Framework Laptop 12 is available to pre-order now, with the first batch shipping in October.
DIY models start at $549 with a Core 3 304, although that doesn't include memory, storage, or a USB-C port for charging.Related I’ve tested dozens of Linux distros, and these 3 are the only ones I’d put on a laptop Not all Linux is built for laptops.From Ubuntu’s gesture support to Linux Mint’s efficiency, these are the best "laptop-first" choices Posts 99 By Dibakar Ghosh To get Linux pre-installed, you'll need to spend at least $699 on a pre-built Laptop 12 with the Core 3 CPU, 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
Windows 11 Home adds another $100, and you'll likely be spending at least $40 to fill the expansion slots.A stylus costs $59.While this isn't the lowest-priced laptop you can get, it sits in direct competition with stylish-but-small portables like Apple's MacBook Neo and Dell's XPS 13.
It's also one of the few mainstream-oriented Linux laptops in this price range and size class, making it an easy pick if you want to use the open-source OS with minimal fuss.
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