Framework Laptop 12: An Upgrade-Friendly, Convertible 2-in-1 Linux Laptop
Back in February the Framework Laptop 12 was announced as the company's first 2-in-1 convertible laptop while still being well-built and upgrade-friendly/modular as we have come to enjoy out of their various Linux-friendly laptops. Today the review embargo lifts on the Framework Laptop 12 and thus can share our initial impressions on this Intel-powered 12-inch laptop.
👁 Framework Laptop 12 in tabletm ode
The Framework Laptop 12 is a 12.2-inch convertible laptop with touchscreen support and optional stylus whether you want to treat it as a mini Linux laptop or as needed convert to a Linux tablet. Windows 11 remains, of course, supported but all of my testing the past week and a half has been under Linux: predominantly Ubuntu 25.04 but also Fedora Workstation 42.
👁 Framework Laptop 12 DIY assembly
The Framework Laptop 12 is upgrade-friendly with modular/replaceable hardware just like what we have come to enjoy out of the Framework Laptop 13 and Framework Laptop 16 models. But unlike the larger laptops is in a 2-in-1 convertible design with a 360-degree hinge.
👁 Framework Laptop 12 DIY Edition
The build quality on the Framework Laptop 12 is very nice and complies with MIL-STD-810 durability standards. It's not too thick yet not too thin and is the right balance of portability and durability. In fact, one of the better feeling convertible devices I have tested over the years at Phoronix.
👁 Framework Laptop 12 motherboard
The Framework Laptop 12 components are replaceable from the motherboard to the single channel RAM, WiFi, battery, and other components. Plus all of the I/O ports are replaceable too just like the other Framework Laptop models.
👁 Framework Laptop 12 keyboard
From a build quality and upgrade perspective, the Framework Laptop 12 is a very nice and rugged convertible laptop. Let's move on to talking more about the performance characteristics and capabilities of the Framework Laptop 12.