Framework now accepts US dollars for new Laptop 12, starting at $549

Earlier this year, the modular computer company Framework set out to revolutionize "entry-level laptops" with the launch of the Framework Laptop 12, their first 12-inch model and their initial foray into 2-in-1 touchscreen PCs. However, recent US tariffs imposed by Trump have thrown a wrench into Framework's plans, causing a brief delay in US preorders for the Laptop 12 and halting sales of their other budget-friendly machines.

Yet, despite these challenges, the Framework Laptop 12 is not positioned as a budget option.

Framework opened pre-orders for the Laptop 12 in the US on Thursday, starting at $549. This follows their earlier launch in the UK, Europe, and Canada at €569/£499/$719 CAD. While these prices are significantly lower than Framework's other DIY laptops, they still sit above the price point of typical entry-level Windows laptops and Chromebooks. Remember, this base price doesn't include essentials like storage, memory, ports, or an operating system. If you opt for these preinstalled, the price jumps to $799 in the US, €849 in Europe, £749 in the UK, and $1,079 CAD in Canada, which brings it close to the cost of Framework's Laptop 13.

Why Pay More for Framework?

The higher price tag of Framework laptops is justified by their commitment to repairability and upgradability, which can lead to long-term savings. Framework stands out as the only company to successfully deliver a fully upgradable laptop. You can even upgrade the earliest Intel-based models with new AMD motherboards and chips. Plus, the Laptop 12 boasts a vibrant and appealing design!

With the Framework Laptop 12, you're not just investing in repairability; you're also getting a 2-in-1 backflipping touchscreen. The base model, starting at $549 or £499, comes equipped with a six-core 13th Gen Intel Core i3-1315U from 2023. For an additional $150 or £150, you can upgrade to a 10-core i5-1334U. The prebuilt model, starting at $799/£749, includes the same i3 chip, along with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Upgrading to the i5 and 16GB of memory will set you back an extra $250/£200, bringing the total to $1049/£949.

At $799 and $1,049, these machines are far from entry-level in the US market. My colleague Jess Weatherbed informs me that similarly spec'd laptops are available in the UK for £400 to £600. In both regions, you can find more powerful thin-and-light laptops at Framework's price points. Remember, repairability and modularity come at a cost.

Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge

Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge

Framework has yet to release the color-matched stylus with a removable battery that was teased as an accessory for the Laptop 12. It's slated to go on sale "soon" and will be sold separately. However, Framework assures that any USI 2.0 or MPP 2.0-compatible stylus will work with the laptop, supporting both Windows and Linux.

Regarding colors, it seems the prebuilt Laptop 12 will only come in black for now. If you want fun colors like mint and pink, you'll need to opt for the mostly preassembled "DIY" version.

Framework anticipates shipping the DIY and prebuilt models in June and July, respectively. However, new buyers might not receive their machines until July or later, as the June batch sold out within an hour of preorders opening. If you're willing to donate $250 to Hack Club, you can expedite your preorder to June, but this option is limited to the black color.

Update, April 10th: This article has been updated to reflect that Framework has now opened preorders for the US version of the Laptop 12.