Framework has redesigned its compact 12-inch laptop: The Framework Laptop 12 gets a new power boost with Intel’s new Core Series 3 (codenamed Wildcat Lake), along with Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, and, according to the manufacturer, up to 70 percent longer battery life when streaming in 4K. The DIY edition starts at 619 euros, while the preconfigured model with Fedora Linux starts at 789 euros. Pre-orders are already open, and the first units are scheduled to ship in October 2026.
In a nutshell:
- New processors: Intel Core 3 304, Core 5 320, Core 7 350 (Wildcat Lake)
- Up to 70% longer battery life, plus Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7
- New: Fingerprint sensor (starting with Core 5) and backlit keyboard (US layout only for now)
- Prices: DIY starting at 619 euros, preconfigured with Fedora 44 starting at 789 euros
- Motherboard upgrade for current owners starting at 339 euros; shipping begins in October 2026
Framework Laptop 12: What’s New with the Core Series 3
Since its launch, the Framework Laptop 12 has been aimed at anyone looking for a rugged, repairable entry-level or secondary device without sacrificing Framework’s modular philosophy. With the switch to Intel’s Core Series 3, the model now offers three new processor options: Core 3 304, Core 5 320, and Core 7 350. They are based on the same Wildcat Lake architecture as the larger Core Ultra Series 3 chips, combined with Cougar Cove P-cores and Darkmont LP-E-cores on Intel’s 18A manufacturing process.
In practice, this primarily means greater efficiency rather than pure raw performance. According to Framework, the Core 5 320 performs at a similar level in single-threaded operation as the Core 5 in the significantly more expensive Framework Laptop 13 Pro. When streaming 4K content via Netflix, battery life is said to increase by up to 70 percent compared to the original Core i5-1334U model—at least according to the manufacturer’s specifications. An independent test will have to show how this translates to real-world use.
New Features: Fingerprint Sensor and Backlit Keyboard
Two of the most frequently requested features have now made it into the Laptop 12: Starting with the Core 5 configuration, a fingerprint sensor is integrated into the power button, and the keyboard is available with backlighting for the first time. For now, however, this is exclusively available in the US ANSI layout; other language layouts are expected to follow. If that’s not enough: The keyboard can be completely remapped using the open-source ZMK firmware.
Framework Laptop 12 Core Series 3: Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processors | Intel Core 3 304 / Core 5 320 / Core 7 350 (Wildcat Lake, Intel 18A) |
| Display | 12.2-inch touchscreen with stylus support |
| RAM | Up to 64 GB DDR5-6400, replaceable SO-DIMM |
| Storage | Up to 2 TB M.2-2230 NVMe SSD |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4 (rear), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (front), hot-swappable expansion cards |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 R2 (Intel BE213), removable M.2 module |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor in the power button (Core 5 and up) |
| Keyboard | Optional backlighting, ZMK open-source firmware (currently US-ANSI only) |
| Operating System | Windows or Fedora 44 with KDE Plasma (preinstalled on select models) |
| Battery life | Up to 70% longer than the Core i5-1334U predecessor (4K Netflix streaming) |
Prices and Availability in Germany
For the German market, Framework lists the following starting prices: The DIY Edition without RAM and SSD starts at 619 euros, while the preconfigured model with Fedora 44, Core 3 304, 8 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD in Sage starts at 789 euros. If you already own a Framework Laptop 12, you can opt to upgrade just the motherboard. The new motherboards are fully backward compatible with the original model from 2025, so there’s no need to buy a completely new laptop. The individual prices are as follows:
| Motherboard | Price |
|---|---|
| Core 3 304 | 339 euros |
| Core 5 320 | 509 euros |
| Core 7 350 | 759 euros |
Good news for existing customers: Along with the launch, Framework has lowered the price of the original Laptop 12 from 2025, which is now available starting at 539 euros. Pre-orders for the Core Series 3 models have been open since August 17, 2026, and the first shipment (Batch 1) is scheduled for October 2026.
Linux and Fedora Play a Major Role
Framework is placing an unusually strong emphasis on Linux support for the Laptop 12. This is no coincidence: according to the company, around 80 percent of previous Laptop 12 buyers reportedly use Linux. Accordingly, select models now come with Fedora 44 and the KDE Plasma desktop preinstalled. Fedora project lead Jef Spaleta commented on the closer collaboration, saying it’s great to see that Framework customers now have a choice. Those who prefer to install the distribution themselves should make sure to use kernel 7.1 or newer, as only that version fully supports the Core Series 3 and the new BE213 Wi-Fi module.
Modularity Remains the Core Promise
The basic concept remains unchanged: the motherboard, fingerprint sensor, and input cover can still be replaced and upgraded individually, and the RAM and SSD are already installed in a way that allows for easy access. Framework itself calls the Laptop 12 one of the easiest devices in its own portfolio to repair and upgrade, and based on everything known so far about previous models, this isn’t just a marketing gimmick. Anyone who’s ever given up on a different laptop because of a glued-in or soldered RAM module will find the exact opposite here.
Assessment: What the Community Really Wanted
In an initial assessment, ComputerBase evaluated the update against five frequently expressed user requests and reached a mixed but positive conclusion: Longer battery life, the backlit keyboard, and the fingerprint sensor have been implemented; however, a significantly better display and better speakers remain (for now) a pipe dream. Critics also note that the keyboard backlighting is only available on the US layout, and the fingerprint sensor is not included in the most affordable configurations.
Conclusion
With the Core Series 3 edition, the Framework Laptop 12 remains true to its core: modular, repairable, and with unusually good Linux support. At the same time, Framework has refined precisely those areas that users have most frequently criticized since the original model, even if the display and speakers remain on the wish list. For a compact secondary device or an affordable entry-level model with some future-proofing, the starting price of 619 euros is fair. And for those who already own a Laptop 12, replacing the motherboard for between 339 and 759 euros is significantly cheaper than buying a brand-new laptop.
Sources: Framework Blog
