In February, the highly anticipated Framework Laptop 12 was unveiled as the company's inaugural 2-in-1 convertible laptop. True to Framework's reputation, this model is designed to be both well-built and upgrade-friendly, continuing the tradition of delivering modular systems that cater to users who appreciate Linux-friendly options. With the review embargo now lifted, we are excited to share our initial impressions of this Intel-powered 12-inch laptop.
The Framework Laptop 12 features a 12.2-inch display with full touchscreen support, making it an ideal device for users who wish to utilize it as a compact Linux laptop or seamlessly transition to a Linux tablet. While Windows 11 is fully supported, our testing over the past week and a half has primarily focused on various Linux distributions, with significant emphasis on Ubuntu 25.04 and Fedora Workstation 42.
One of the standout features of the Framework Laptop 12 is its upgrade-friendly design, which mirrors the modularity seen in the larger Framework Laptop 13 and Framework Laptop 16 models. This 2-in-1 convertible laptop boasts a 360-degree hinge, allowing for flexible usage modes. The build quality is impressive, adhering to MIL-STD-810 durability standards, which ensures that the laptop is both robust and reliable. It strikes an excellent balance between portability and durability, making it one of the most satisfying convertible devices we've tested at Phoronix.
The Framework Laptop 12 excels in modularity, with easily replaceable components ranging from the motherboard to single-channel RAM, WiFi modules, and the battery. Additionally, all I/O ports are user-replaceable, which is a hallmark of Framework's innovative approach to laptop design. This level of upgradeability ensures that users can customize and maintain their devices over time, enhancing the overall longevity and sustainability of the laptop.
As we delve deeper into the performance capabilities of the Framework Laptop 12, it is crucial to note that its design and modularity do not compromise its functionality. The Intel-powered architecture delivers solid performance across various applications, making it suitable for both casual and professional use. Whether you're multitasking between applications or engaging in resource-intensive tasks, the Framework Laptop 12 holds its ground effectively.
In summary, the Framework Laptop 12 is a remarkable addition to the Framework lineup, combining a sleek convertible design with robust build quality and exceptional upgradeability. As we continue to explore its performance, we look forward to sharing more insights and detailed analyses in future updates.
