I Built a Modular Laptop with a Custom OS (Framework 12 + Omarchy)

Описание: In this Linux Out of the Box episode, I build the Framework 12-inch laptop with my son — and then install Omarchy OS, the lightweight Arch-based Linux distro built on Hyprland.

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This video combines two of my favourite things: Framework’s modular, repairable design and Omarchy’s fast, keyboard-driven Linux experience. We’ll go from unboxing and assembly to a full Omarchy install in under 10 minutes, proving that modern Linux doesn’t just belong on desktops — it’s perfect for cutting-edge, sustainable laptops too.

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🔹 What’s Covered in This Video

🧰 Building the Framework 12 Laptop
• Unboxing the Framework 12 laptop kit.
• Adding components:
• 16GB Crucial SO-DIMM RAM
• 1TB Lexar 2230 NVMe SSD
• Anker USB-C power adapter (budget alternative to Framework’s PSU).
• Step-by-step assembly — done by my 14-year-old son!
• Installing the I/O expansion cards: 2× USB-C, 1× USB-A, 1× HDMI.
• Why Framework’s screwdriver and modular parts are a perfect teaching tool for young builders.
• Discussion on the Framework ethos — repairability, sustainability, and modularity done right.

💻 Installing Omarchy OS
• Why Omarchy OS is perfect for Framework hardware.
• Arch-based, lightweight, optimized for speed.
• Full compatibility with Framework’s touchscreen and convertible features.
• BIOS setup and how to disable Secure Boot (hold F2 to access the alternate firmware menu).
• Omarchy installation process:
• 3 minutes, 40 seconds to full install.
• Automatic detection of Wi-Fi, display, and input devices.
• Smooth boot-up, instant updates, and perfect touchscreen support.
• Why Omarchy beats Windows 11 on this hardware:
• No bloatware, faster boot, zero driver installs.
• Total privacy, total control.

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🔹 Why Framework + Omarchy Just Works

Framework’s modular hardware meets Omarchy’s lean Linux environment — and the results are fantastic. The Framework 12 runs cooler and faster under Omarchy than Windows, and the Hyprland tiling interface makes multitasking effortless.

Framework highlights:
• Flip the screen to use as a tablet (keyboard locks automatically).
• Touchscreen and stylus support (coming in a future update).
• Replaceable RAM, SSD, ports, and even the CPU board.

Omarchy highlights:
• Arch Linux power with a beginner-friendly installer.
• Hyprland desktop: sleek, minimal, and efficient.
• Keyboard-driven workflow (Super key shortcuts).
• Perfect for developers, creators, and tinkerers.

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💡 Why This Build Makes Sense for 2025

Chromebooks are disposable, Macs are sealed, and most Windows laptops are bloated. The Framework 12 offers a sustainable middle ground — and when paired with Omarchy OS, you get:
• A rebuildable, repairable machine you can actually learn from.
• A fast, modern Linux desktop with zero compromise.
• The freedom to customize, upgrade, and improve it for years.

Whether you’re a parent helping a teen build their first laptop or a Linux enthusiast looking for the ultimate portable machine, this combo is something special.

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📌 Final Thoughts

The build was fun, educational, and surprisingly easy — and Omarchy installed flawlessly on the Framework 12. If you’re thinking about a new Linux laptop, skip the Chromebooks and locked-down Macs. The Framework 12 is the way forward: modular, open, and built to last.

🧩 Framework is the future of computing.
💻 Omarchy is the future of Linux.
Together, they’re unstoppable.

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🔔 Subscribe

Follow the Linux Out of the Box series for more real-world Linux experiments:
• Installing Linux on old Macs and Intel NUCs.
• Gaming and AI workflows on Omarchy.
• Creator tools and Resolve setups on Rocky, Bazzite, and Bluefin.

#Linux #OmarchyOS #FrameworkLaptop #ArchLinux #Hyprland #LinuxOutOfTheBox #Framework12 #LinuxInstall #LinuxOnLaptop #FrameworkBuild #RepairableLaptop
00:00 - Start
00:02 - INTRO
02:15 - PACKAGING
03:14 - BUILD
14:48 - OMARCHY INSTALL
17:43 - FINAL THOUGHTS