# Framework Laptop 12 Gets Newer Intel Chips: What the Review Says

> Engadget gave the repairable 2-in-1 8.4 out of 10 after the 2026 upgrade fixed its biggest flaw.

By Subhajit | 2026-10-19 | Reviews | Savvy VibeZ
Web page: https://savvyvibez.com/post/framework-laptop-12-gets-newer-intel-chips-what-the-review-says

## Key takeaways

- Engadget scored the 2026 Framework Laptop 12 8.4 out of 10. That is Engadget's score, not ours.
- New Intel Core Series 3 chips fix the earlier thermal limits, memory goes up to 64GB, and it stays modular and repairable.
- Prices run from $799 to $1,549; the 8GB base model and the high prices are the main complaints.

*A note on this page: Savvy VibeZ did not test this laptop. This is our summary of another outlet's review. The score below is Engadget's, not ours.*

Framework builds laptops you can repair and upgrade yourself. Engadget's Daniel Cooper reviewed the 2026 upgrade of its 12-inch 2-in-1 and scored it 8.4 out of 10, saying new Intel Core Series 3 chips fix a key flaw of the earlier model.

## What changed in the Framework Laptop 12

- New Intel chips: the tested unit used a Core 7 350, with Core 3 304 and Core 5 320 also offered.
- Maximum memory rises to 64GB, and the rear expansion slots now support Thunderbolt 4.
- A fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard are added, along with a Framework-made USI 2.0 stylus.

## Framework Laptop 12 prices listed in the review

- $799: Core 3 304, 8GB RAM, 512GB storage, four USB-C expansion cards.
- $1,199: Core 5 320, 16GB RAM, 512GB, Windows 11 Home.
- $1,549: Core 7 350, 32GB RAM, 512GB, Windows 11 Pro (the tested configuration).
- Choosing Fedora Linux instead of Windows saves $100.

## What worked, according to the review

Performance is strong for the class, and the new chips largely resolve the thermal bottleneck of the first generation. The reviewer played Fortnite, Hardspace: Shipbreaker and Cyberpunk 2077 (on its lowest settings) smoothly. The design remains modular and repairable: swapping the mainboard took him about 14 minutes, plus roughly 32 minutes of Windows and driver setup. He advises downloading Wi-Fi drivers first or using an ethernet adapter.

## What did not work, according to the review

- Prices are high, which the review attributes to the RAM market.
- The 8GB base model is a real limitation, especially with Windows.
- The underside gets very hot during sustained gaming on a table, within about ten minutes, so it is not a lap-top gaming machine.
- Battery life is roughly five hours of light work and under three hours under heavy load.

The review's verdict: the new chips make the Laptop 12 capable beyond basic tasks, and it is still a strong choice for people who value repairability, provided you pay attention to configuration and avoid demanding work on your lap.

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