Okay, first off—this thing’s hard to ignore. The Framework Laptop 12 looks like something a modular design retro-futurist might dream up after one too many coffees. And I mean that in the best way possible. It’s a 2-in-1 modular laptop, wrapped in vibrant bubblegum hues, and it’s genuinely fun to use.
But here’s the million-dollar question: is it all style, or does it actually have some substance under the hood?
A Funky Shell with Brains Inside
The Framework 12 doesn’t just talk the talk—it’s surprisingly well-built too. The outer shell’s made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which feels sturdy and grippy at the same time. And those colors? Total throwback, but somehow still fresh.
In a sea of minimalist gray boxes, this laptop stands out without screaming for attention. It’s quirky, yeah—but not in a “trying too hard” kind of way. More like “I know what I’m doing, and I’m having fun doing it.”
Performance That’s (Mostly) Got You Covered
So what’s under the hood? A 13th Gen Intel Core i3—not top-tier, but definitely capable if you’re not planning to edit 8K videos or play AAA games on max settings. For regular use—think emails, streaming, docs, and light creative work—it’s perfectly fine.
Would I recommend it to someone building a VR game from scratch? Probably not. But for everyday tasks, it gets the job done without breaking a sweat—or your wallet.
Modular = Customizable, and That’s the Cool Part
Here’s where it gets interesting. Framework’s whole pitch is about modularity—easy upgrades, quick part swaps, zero fuss. And honestly, it delivers. Swapping components on this thing feels more like building with LEGO than performing surgery.
In a world where most laptops are basically glued shut, this one says, “Hey, wanna upgrade your RAM or storage? Go for it.” And that’s something we don’t see enough of these days.
If you’re even remotely curious, I’d suggest poking around the official Framework site just to see what’s possible with their modular setup.
Using It: The Good, The Great, and the “Could-Be-Better”
Now let’s talk day-to-day use. The touchscreen’s responsive, with a smoothness that makes you want to ditch your mouse half the time. Typing feels solid—not mechanical keyboard-level, but far from mushy. It’s the kind of keyboard you don’t think about, which is a compliment.
Only real gripe? The trackpad could stand to be a little roomier. It’s not bad, just… feels like it forgot to grow up with the rest of the design.
Oh, and fun fact: a recent survey showed that 70% of users now expect touchscreens on laptops. So yeah, good on Framework for making that a standard feature.
The Price: Worth It?
Let’s be real—modular laptops don’t come at bargain-bin prices. But with the Framework 12, you’re not just buying a device. You’re buying longevity and flexibility.
If you’re someone who upgrades over time, this could save you cash down the line. Not to mention less e-waste. It’s kind of a smart investment, especially if you hate the idea of ditching a laptop just because one piece goes kaput.
Final Thoughts? It’s Not About Being Perfect—It’s About Possibility
Look, the Framework Laptop 12 isn’t claiming to be a powerhouse or a gaming beast. What it is, though, is a genuinely exciting shift in how we think about laptops. Customizable. Repairable. Quirky, even. And in a world full of black rectangles that all look the same, that’s something worth celebrating.
Perfect laptop? Maybe not. But a clever, forward-thinking one with a lot of charm? Absolutely.
If you’re tired of cookie-cutter tech and want a device that feels like yours, this might just be your next favorite sidekick.
