Framework has refreshed its 12-inch convertible laptop, introducing Intel’s latest Core Series 3 processors, expanded hardware customizations, and a pre-built Linux option. The cheapest pre-built base configuration for the Framework Laptop 12 now starts at $699 — $100 less than the previous version when it launched last year.

Preorders are open now, with the first wave of deliveries expected to ship in October. That pre-built base configuration is only available in green, and includes an Intel Core 3 304 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

It also comes preloaded with Linux Fedora 44 KDE Plasma, a decision brought on by Framework finding that almost 80 percent of Laptop 12 owners are already running Linux “across a range of distros.” You can still configure the updated laptop to come with Microsoft’s Windows 11 Home operating system instead, but doing so will increase the price by $100.

Framework says that the Core Series 3 is “purpose built for smaller, lower-power, entry-priced laptops,” and should help to improve battery life, temperatures, and fan noise on the more powerful chip options. The Core 3 304 chip only has one performance core, however, and the only laptop we’ve tested with this Intel Wildcat Lake processor left us bitterly disappointed.

That chip update does allow for a smattering of internal hardware and port improvements, including higher DDR5 memory speeds of up to 6400 MT/s, Wi-Fi 7 R2, and Thunderbolt 4 support for the rear two Expansion Card slots, which allows you to plug in two 4K 60Hz displays or eGPUs. 2 Gen 2, but Framework says all four slots still support power input for charging.

For all Core 5 and Core 7 configurations, the Laptop 12 now includes two additional features as standard: a fingerprint reader built into the power button, and a backlit keyboard. The illuminated keyboard is also available as an optional customization on the DIY Edition of the Laptop 12, which starts at $549 and provides more color options compared to the pre-built version.

The original Laptop 12 that uses 13th Gen Intel Core chips is still available if none of this entices you, however, and prices now start at $699 for the pre-built version or $499 for the DIY Edition. Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.