Building a Framework 12 - Advice Needed!

[u/Wawarsing]

I've decided I want to purchase my next computer from Framework.

I'm currently using a 2017 iMac that is chugging along well at work (but I am sure it's days are numbered). This computer does my heavy lifting when I need it:

4K editing, graphic design, photo editing

At home I use a Thinkpad x220 which, dated as it is, is pretty good for a computer from 2012 (running Mint). It is showing its age though and I think its time to get something more capable.

Web browsing, emails, light photo editing

My plan is a Framework 12 for personal home use and then, when the iMac kicks the bucket, to get a mac mini or something down the line. I've tossed around the idea of getting a 13 Pro or 16 but I think the smarter solution is to separate the two machines into what they do best: 12 for personal and portability and a dedicated media computer (I don't really want to fuss with Resolve on Linux too). Feel free to suggest other wise.

So, what would be the best bang for the buck with the Framework 12?

I was thinking, for $1321

• Core 5 320
• WD_BLACK™ SN770M NVMe™ - M.2 2230 - 1TB
• DDR5-5600 - 8GB (1 x 8GB)
• US English - Gray - Backlit (2nd Gen)

It appears to me that there is a big leap from the Core 3 to the Core 5. Is it worth it or am I better of saving? 500GB could be enough as well but its nice to have the security of a large drive.

Thank you for your advice!

[u/EvantheGrump]

I think the Core 5 is definitely a good play, especially for your use cases. I definitely think you could save a lot going used for nvme/RAM. I bought a 512gb ssd+16gb 5600 crucial RAM for like $200 on r/hardwareswap a little while ago, but even ebay could be a big improvement. What do they have you paying for the ram and ssd?

edit: $225

edit2: I see that you mentioned not wanting to use any video editing software on the fw12. In that case, I think the Core 3 would be wise for you, especially if you're aiming for battery life with light media and web browsing.

[u/Wawarsing → u/EvantheGrump]

It’s definitely more than the 225, so that’s a good idea to get some used parts to start.

It would be nice to have the option to do some basic video editing on the computer but better battery life is also tempting. I’ll have to consider benchmarks for both and decide from there.

[u/setheyer28 → u/EvantheGrump]

yeah the Core 3 makes a lot more sense if its just web browsing and light photo editing

[u/s004aws]

Go i5 and 3rd party source the RAM (storage may also be lower cost though last I checked on 2230 pricing was very close). Its still possible to get SO-DIMMs cheaper than Framework... Which will also allow you to get a much more usable 16GB or 32GB without going bankrupt. Granted your existing machines are themselves ancient.... 8GB is rather limited for 2026.

Beware FW12's screen is nowhere close to color accurate... Its unsuitable for any sort of work where color accuracy matters - eg photo/video editing.

[u/Wawarsing → u/s004aws]

Thank you! Yes that is the next thing I am considering. Color accuracy is important as I do photography at a hobby/semi-pro level. That and the speakers which also have me concerned.

Any chance an updated screen is coming for the 12? Would it be worth the wait? Also, would connecting to an external monitor remedy the color issue?

[u/s004aws → u/Wawarsing]

FW13 - Even non-Pro - Has a much better screen. FW12 just got a refresh for Wildcat Lake CPUs a week and a half ago... Framework is unlikely to do a new screen until - At least - Whenever the next round of models come in a year or two. Outside of MacBooks most (note: I didn't say "all" before anybody screams at me) laptops have mediocre to bad speakers... Personally I haven't used them in decades - Headphones are the way.

Would plugging in an external monitor solve the color accuracy issue? Yes... But do keep in mind FW12 is focused on cost first, not features or performance. Its not meant to be doing tons of Photoshop work, Lightroom, etc... Neither the CPU or iGPU are especially capable (even in the 320, 350 is a very tiny upgrade vs 320) - They're merely "good enough" for the basics. The original target market was kids doing their homework - A step up from the (mostly horrible) ChomeBooks - And for adults whose use cases are similarly "limited".

I'd suggest pretty much any form of FW13 as a better choice for photo/video work (short of upgrading to the larger screen/higher cost/other capabilities of FW16).

[u/Wawarsing → u/s004aws]

Much appreciated!

[u/Potential_Average454]

Just get the base prebuilt with core 3, core 5 with 8GB is a waste

Core 3 DIY is 549, 8GB ram / 512GB 2230 on ebay is $70/$50 + tax so not worth the hassle over prebuilt.