Framework Laptop 12: A New Breed of Repairable 2-in-1
Framework is shaking up the laptop industry, and their latest release, the Framework Laptop 12, marks an exciting expansion into new territory. Announced in February 2025, this device is Framework’s first foray into the 2-in-1 convertible market, bringing their celebrated philosophy of upgradeability and repairability to a versatile form factor. Following the lifting of the review embargo, we can now share our initial impressions of this innovative 12-inch device powered by Intel silicon.
Unlike typical disposable entry-level machines often found targeting students or budget-conscious users, the Framework Laptop 12 aims to be a robust, customizable, and repairable alternative. While their larger Framework Laptop 13 and Framework Laptop 16 models have already proven the viability of user-serviceable design, the Laptop 12 introduces a 360-degree hinge and touchscreen, allowing it to function seamlessly as both a compact laptop and a tablet.
Design, Build Quality, and Durability
The Framework Laptop 12 features a 12.2-inch touchscreen display with a 1920×1200 resolution and brightness expected to exceed 400 nits, making it suitable for various lighting conditions. An optional stylus enhances its versatility for note-taking or creative tasks in tablet mode.
Setting it apart structurally from its aluminum-clad siblings, the Laptop 12 utilizes a durable two-tone plastic body built around an internal metal frame. This design is available in five color options and incorporates a shock-absorbing edge for added resilience. Despite the use of plastic, the build quality feels remarkably solid. It complies with MIL-STD-810 durability standards, striking an excellent balance between portability and ruggedness. In fact, it stands out as one of the better-feeling convertible devices we’ve tested.
Unmatched Modularity and Repairability
True to the Framework ethos, the Laptop 12 is designed from the ground up for user access and component replacement. Framework touts it as potentially their “easiest product ever to repair.” Nearly every major component is replaceable or upgradeable, including the motherboard, single-channel DDR5-5200 RAM (supporting up to 48GB), NVMe storage (up to 2TB), WiFi card, and battery.
Furthermore, the iconic Expansion Card system is fully supported, with four ports (two on each side) compatible with existing USB-C, HDMI, and other modules. This means you can customize your port selection on the fly, just like with the Laptop 13. This commitment to modularity and repairability directly aligns with Framework’s broader mission to extend the lifespan of consumer electronics, reducing waste and saving users money over time.
Hardware & Linux Compatibility
Powering the Framework Laptop 12 are 13th Generation Intel Core i3 and i5 processors. While these chips originally launched in late 2022, Framework suggests the system is “unusually powerful for its class,” aiming to deliver capable performance for typical student and entry-level tasks. The system also includes Wi-Fi 6E support.
Operating system compatibility is broad, with official support for both Windows 11 and Linux. For this review, testing over the past week and a half has focused heavily on Linux distributions, primarily Ubuntu 25.04, with additional testing on Fedora Workstation 42.
Initial Verdict on Build & Modularity
From a physical design and upgrade perspective, the Framework Laptop 12 presents itself as a very nice, rugged, and highly adaptable convertible laptop. While initial pricing details are yet to be officially announced, the use of slightly older processors and the plastic chassis suggests it will be positioned as a more budget-friendly option compared to the Framework Laptop 13, making its unique repairability more accessible.
This initial look has focused on the design, build quality, and the core modularity features. The subsequent pages of this review will delve into the performance characteristics and capabilities of the Framework Laptop 12 across various benchmarks and real-world scenarios.
