So, I just got my FW 12, i3, gray. I wanted to test it out in a configuration similar to how a pre-built would com, so I installed 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD.
It booted right up with my Transcend SSD and Crucial 8GB, 5600MT RAM. Windows install and installing the driver bundle both went smooth, and it’s up and running. Initially, the touchpad was dragging slightly on the left side, and I could see that it was physically hitting on the left, with a slight gap on the right. I was able to quickly and easily loosen the mounting screws for the touchpad about a half a turn, scoot the touchpad over a smidgeon, so it was centered, then snugged the screws. Worked great. The touchpad is still a “diving board” style, but it has slightly easier physical clicks than the FW13, such that I prefer the physical clicks on the FW12 over the 13.
The keyboard is okay. Nothing special, but not bad. It seems recessed slightly further below flush with the palm rest area than I’m used to. Not a problem, but I noticed it right away, and it will take some getting used to before I stop noticing it, I think. On the plus side, this may help prevent the keys from making marks on the display over time when the laptop is transported in a bag, etc.
I literally just received it a couple hours ago, and have done pretty much nothing but get Windows and the drivers installed, and adjust the touchpad. So I don’t have any experience with software or anything yet. But so far, so good. It’s about 3/8" narrower than the FW13 side to side, and about 5/8" shorter front to back. Thickness is similar, but I didn’t measure it. The FW12 seems like it weighs less, but if I really think about it, they seem the same. The plastic feel and smaller size gives an initial impression of being lighter, but ultimately, they feel about the same.
I’ll be digging into it a lot more when I get time, but that’s about all I’ll be able to do with the machine for now.