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Framework Laptop 12 Gets Wildcat Lake CPUs, 70% Better Battery Life

Daniel Cross 0 comments 2 min read

Framework Laptop 12 refresh brings Intel Core Series 3 Wildcat Lake processors, claiming 70% better battery life and Thunderbolt 4 support.

Framework Laptop 12
PC HARDWARE

Framework updated its Laptop 12 convertible to address the biggest complaint about its previous generation: battery life. The new models swap in Core Series 3 chips that deliver significantly longer run times without changing the physical battery size. This matters because buyers can finally get a portable machine that lasts through a full workday without hunting for an outlet. Framework has improved battery life with this update, supporting its modular design approach.

Framework updates modular notebook with Intel Core Series 3 chips

The core of the update lies in the new Intel Core Series 3 Wildcat Lake processors. Buyers can choose between the Core 3 304, Core 5 320, or the top-tier Core 7 350. These chips replace the older 13th-gen Intel options that powered the prior Laptop 12 iterations. The hardware retains the familiar 12.2-inch touch display and the company’s signature modular expansion slots.

Specifications

  • Processor: Intel Core Series 3 Wildcat Lake (Core 3 304, Core 5 320, Core 7 350)
  • Memory: Up to 64 GB LPDDR5-6400
  • Storage: Up to 2 TB
  • Battery: 50 Wh
  • Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4 (2 slots), USB 3.2 Gen 2 (2 slots)

Framework kept the 50 Wh battery capacity identical to the previous model, yet claims a 70 percent improvement in battery life with the new Core 5 320 chip. The system supports up to 64 GB of LPDDR5-6400 memory and offers storage options reaching 2 TB. Connectivity has also been refined, with two expansion slots now supporting Thunderbolt 4 speeds while the remaining two stick to USB 3.2 Gen 2. New standard features include a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader built into the power button.

Pricing for the DIY mainboards starts at $299 for the Core 3 304, rises to $449 for the Core 5 320, and reaches $669 for the Core 7 350. Pre-built units running Fedora 44 KDE Plasma Desktop OS start at $699. For those sticking with the older 13th-gen DIY model, the entry price remains at $499. Framework opened pre-orders on August 18, with all Core Series 3 mainboards scheduled to begin shipping in October.

We touched on Framework Laptop 13 Pro Battery Life in our earlier Framework coverage, noting the vendor's consistent push for efficiency. The Laptop 12 now joins that effort with concrete hardware changes rather than just software tweaks. Buyers who prioritize portability and repairability now have a clear path to longer battery life in a compact form factor.

Source: Framework, NotebookCheck

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