In the face of flexible computer assembly DIY, people may have wondered why laptops cannot be DIY. This expectation was finally realized by Framework Computer in 2021. The most distinctive feature of the product is the implementation of the design concept of modularization, easy maintenance and consumer self-customization in ultra-thin notebooks. On the 19th, a new generation of Framework DIY ultra-thin notebooks with 12th-generation Core processors was launched, and pre-orders were fully opened, with shipments in July at the earliest.
This time, Framework mainly promotes motherboards equipped with 12th-generation Intel CPUs, which are significantly improved compared to the previous generation. Since the modular design will take into account both maintainability and upgradeability, the motherboard can not only be used as a new notebook pre-installed or DIY components, but also compatible with previous generation products.
Intel’s 12th-generation Core processors use the Alder Lake CPU architecture, which combines high-performance cores (P-Core) and high-efficiency cores (E-Core) to maximize performance under high load and effectively reduce power consumption when the computer is idle. Compared with the 11th generation with 6~8 cores, the number of cores of the 12th generation is greatly improved. The two CPUs of Core i5-1240P and Core i7-1260P include 4 P-Core and 8 E-Core, the latter provides higher clock and more High GPU performance. As for the top-level Core i7-1280P, it has 6 P-Cores and 8 E-Cores built in.
You can buy finished products, self-assemble, and upgrade if you want. In addition to Linux, you can also install Windows 11.
Framework is divided into two categories: ready-to-use version and DIY version. The former is divided into Base basic version, Performance version and Professional professional version. The new 12th-generation Framework laptops currently start from as low as $1,049 (Core i5 basic version), the first batch is sold out, and the second batch will not ship until August. The performance version (Core i7-1260P) and the professional version (Core i7-1280P) are priced at $1,449 and $2,049 respectively, and the first batch will ship in July.
Users can choose what operating system is built-in at the time of shipment. In addition to Linux systems such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Fedora, Windows 11 Home and Pro systems are also pre-installed. Framework’s most recommended operating system is Fedora 36, which fully supports laptop CPU, Wi-Fi card and fingerprint reader, and works best.
Like the off-the-shelf version, the DIY version also has three price points according to the CPU level. The lowest bare metal price excluding memory, storage and operating system is $819, which is the most cost-effective for users with off-the-shelf components and operating systems. Of course, if the user lacks one of the above three options, they can also purchase it on the Framework official website.
For users of previous-generation Framework laptops, they can also enjoy the performance thrill of the latest Intel 12th-generation CPUs through the latest “upgrade kits”. The official website also offers three upgrade options (minimum $538) according to the CPU level, but all options include a new laptop cover ($89), which is redesigned and manufactured through a CNC process to be more durable. Another notable future additional upgrade is the Realtek RTL8156 chipset 2.5Gbps Ethernet expansion card, the first supported wired LAN module, expected to be generally available later this year.
(Source of the first image: Framework)
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