A Game Changer in Entry-Level Laptops!

This year, Framework is on a mission to revolutionize entry-level laptops with its latest offering, the Framework Laptop 12. This innovative 12-inch device marks the company’s first foray into 2-in-1 touchscreen PCs, designed for flexibility and performance.

Pricing Challenges Ahead!

However, rising tariffs under the Trump administration are complicating matters. This has led to a temporary pause in preorders for U.S. customers, along with a halt on sales of some of Framework’s lower-priced models.

Affordable Yet Premium?

Pre-orders for the Laptop 12 have kicked off in the UK, Europe, and Canada, starting at €569 / £499 / $719 CAD. While this is a more wallet-friendly option compared to Framework’s other DIY laptops, it still exceeds the prices of many standard Windows laptops and Chromebooks. Note that the base price excludes essential components like storage and memory, meaning the final setup could cost significantly more.

Why Pay More?

Purchasing a Framework laptop is about more than just the initial cost. Customers invest in repairability and future upgrades that can lead to long-term savings. Framework has blazed the trail as the only company that offers a fully upgradable laptop, allowing users to swap components like motherboards with ease.

What’s Under the Hood?

At £499, the Laptop 12 packs a six-core 13th Gen Intel Core i3-1315U processor, with an option for a more robust 10-core i5-1334U for an additional £150. The starting prebuilt model comes equipped with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

Competitive Landscape!

Comparing prices, similar laptops in the UK can range from £400 to £600, which makes Framework’s pricing look a bit steep despite their unique selling proposition of modularity.

What About U.S. Pricing?

While exact U.S. pricing remains unconfirmed, rough conversions suggest that if it weren’t for tariffs, the starting price might hover around $510 USD, with prebuilt options at about $765 USD.

What’s Next for U.S. Customers?

In a recent tweet, Framework hinted at updates regarding U.S. preorders for the Laptop 12, reassuring potential buyers that they are managing production capacity to ship pre-orders efficiently.

Stylus and Color Options!

The laptop will include a separate color-matched stylus that features a removable battery, although it won’t be sold until later. Users can also opt for any USI 2.0 or MPP 2.0-compatible stylus.

Color Customization!

Currently, the prebuilt Laptop 12 comes solely in black, while the DIY version offers enticing colors like mint and pink.

Shipping Timeline!

Anticipate your first batches of DIY and prebuilt models to ship in June and July, respectively. Get ready to join the future of laptops!