Framework has refreshed its compact Laptop 12 convertible with Intel’s latest Core Series 3 processors, replacing the older 13th-generation chips used in the original model. The updated machine is now available with the Core 3 304, Core 5 320 and Core 7 350, giving the small convertible a more modern CPU platform while retaining its compact and modular design.
The new processors, which are based on Intel’s Wildcat architecture, feature six cores, combining two Performance cores with four Efficient cores. Framework claims the move from the Core i5-1334U to the Core 5 320 can improve battery life by up to 70% in a 4K Netflix playback test. The Laptop 12 also gets a backlit keyboard with a programmable controller running ZMK firmware.
Another notable change is the addition of Thunderbolt 4. The two rear USB-C expansion bays now support the standard, allowing users to connect high-speed storage, displays and potentially external GPUs. The remaining two ports are still limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2, although all four expansion bays support USB Power Delivery.
The internal hardware remains pretty much the same and quite entry-level as the system has a single DDR5 SO-DIMM slot supporting up to 64GB of DDR5-6400 memory, while there are still no configurations featuring Intel’s higher-end Core Ultra X7 358H or a dedicated Arc B-series GPU. The updated Laptop 12 is therefore still aimed primarily at users looking for a compact, repairable and flexible system rather than a high-performance gaming machine.
The barebones version starts at $549 with the Core 3 304, while the Core 5 320 model costs $779 and the Core 7 350 version reaches $999, with memory and storage excluded. Pre-built systems start at $699 with 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. The Fedora-based Core 5 configuration starts at $1,099 with 16GB of RAM and 512GB storage, while the Core 7 model with 32GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD starts at $1,399.
Framework expects the first Core Series 3 Laptop 12 systems to ship in early October 2026.
