The newest addition to the modular and repairable PC lineup from Framework ventures into the challenging realm of 2-in-1 devices with an engaging 12-inch laptop featuring a touchscreen and a 360-degree hinge.
This latest model supports the company’s innovative expansion cards that allow for various port configurations on the sides, aligning with the Framework 13 and 16 offerings. Additionally, it can be easily opened to access and replace memory, storage, and internal components using just a few screws.
The Framework 12 is available in a DIY configuration starting at £499 (€569/$549/$909). It slots in below the £799-and-up laptop 13 and the £1,399 laptop 16, making it the most compact and affordable option from the company.
While the laptop 13 exudes a premium look, the laptop 12 stands out with its robust build, featuring extra plastic components for enhanced impact resistance. It is designed to comply with the MIL-STD-810 standard, typical for rugged electronics. Rather than appearing as a flimsy DIY assembly, it presents a sturdy impression.
The glossy 12.2-inch display is bright and relatively sharp, though it is quite reflective, framed by a sizable black bezel that limits color range compared to more vibrant displays. It’s adequate for productivity tasks, but not the best choice for photo editing. The touchscreen can pivot back, converting the laptop into a tablet, tent mode, or managed parallel to the keyboard. It supports a wide variety of first and third-party styluses for drawing and note-taking, which is a great asset in educational settings.
The DIY version offers a vibrant selection of colors, enhancing its appeal for students. The 1080p webcam positioned at the top is decent but doesn’t compare to higher-end models, alongside a physical privacy switch among the microphones. The stereo speakers deliver a loud and clear sound, although they lack deep bass.
Weighing in at 1.3kg, the laptop 12 is not ultra-light, but its compact design allows it to fit easily into bags and snug spaces. The ample mechanical trackpad is responsive and functions well. However, the laptop lacks fingerprint or facial recognition, requiring a PIN or password entry each time it opens or when accessing secure applications like password managers.
Specifications
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Screen: 12.2in LCD 1920×1200 (60Hz; 186ppi)
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Processor: Intel Core i3 or i5 (U Series, 13th Gen)
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RAM: 8 or 16GB (up to 48GB)
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Storage: 512GB (up to 2TB)
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Operating System: Windows 11 or Linux
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Camera: 1080p front
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.3, Headphone jack + 4 port selection: USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, MicroSD, SD
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Size: 287 x 213.9 x 18.5mm
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Weight: 1.3kg
Modular Ports and Performance
The Laptop 12 offers two options for Intel 13th Generation U-Series processors, featuring a power-efficient chip from previous years. In testing with the mid-range i5-1334U, it may not have set raw performance records, but it handled tasks beyond basic computing without issues. For everyday tasks, it feels responsive, but struggles with more demanding applications like video conversion.
Due to the older chip, battery life tends to be on the lower end of 2025 standards, lasting around 7-8 hours with light office applications such as browsers, word processors, note-taking apps, and emails. Using more intensive applications can reduce that time significantly. The battery can be fully charged in about 100 minutes using a USB-C power adapter rated at 60W or more.
Port selection is highly customizable, featuring a fixed headphone jack and four expansion card slots. Available options include USB-A and USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, as well as MicroSD and SD card readers. Other cards can add storage of up to 1TB, with USB-C cards available in various vibrant or semi-transparent colors to enhance the appearance. This is a fantastic system, but it’s important to note that the laptop 12 is limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2; the more advanced USB4/Thunderbolt connectivity found in newer devices is not present here.
Sustainability
The framework claims the battery will retain at least 80% of its original capacity for a minimum of 1,000 full charge cycles. It can be easily replaced, along with other components including RAM and SSD.
Framework sells replacement parts and upgrades through their marketplace, while also supporting third-party components. Many laptop components include recycled plastic materials.
Price
The DIY version of the Framework 12 starts at £499 (€569/$549/$909). A pre-built model begins at £749 (€849/$799/$1,369) running Windows 11.
For context, the DIY Framework 13 is priced at £799 while the DIY Framework 16 is £1,399. Similarly, comparable 2-in-1 Windows devices begin at around £500.
Verdict
Just like previous Framework devices, the laptop 12 illustrates the possibility of having a repairable, upgradeable, and adaptable computer that functions well, appealing to both tech enthusiasts and casual users. It brings fun to the process in ways that many mid-range PCs do not.
The keyboard is solid, the trackpad performs admirably, and the speakers deliver clear, crisp sound. Modular ports are a standout feature that every PC manufacturer should consider adopting, as the ability to easily repair or upgrade is still quite rare. The absence of biometric authentication is a drawback, while the touchscreen, though bright, lacks brilliance; fitting older processors may result in reduced performance for demanding tasks, and battery life could be better by modern standards.
The main disadvantage is its price, as it is approximately £150 to £200 higher than similar spec-based closed models. Unless you already have spare components like storage or RAM, the cost reflects the benefits of a modular and open system.
Pros: Swappable ports, repairable and upgradeable, engaging and durable design, compact size, a variety of color options, strong keyboard and trackpad, solid performance for daily tasks.
Cons: Below-average battery life, a bright but slightly dull screen, absence of biometric authentication. Pricier than competitors, utilizes older processors, waits for purchase fulfillment.
Source: www.theguardian.com
