Linux Mint version 22.2 isn't compatible with your Framework laptop model 13.
Linux Mint version 22.2 isn't compatible with your Framework laptop model 13.
Yes, I understand it’s a DE. You can install Debian with Cinnamon and maybe KDE on Mint if you attempt it. There’s only a connection (not cause) between current distros and the software it comes with. I’d have been better off avoiding Ubuntu-based systems. Ubuntu isn’t the same as Debian. LTS versions are rooted in an older, unstable Debian. Also, Kubuntu felt very slow compared to other KDE options like Fedora or Debian. This appears to point to an Ubuntu issue. My experience comes from using a 6th/7th generation i7 with 16GB RAM; anything based on Ubuntu didn’t perform well, while Fedora, Debian, or Suse did fine. MX Linux KDE is an AHS version and allows you to upgrade kernels if needed. I’m unsure if this makes it as adaptable for new hardware as Fedora or Arch, but it should outpace Mint 22 (Kernel 6.8). The 6.12 or 6.16 kernels are still superior to 6.8. Currently, Mint relies on Arch, Debian, RHEL/Fedora, and OpenSUSE. I think moving beyond just one step isn’t practical. Mint 22 is built on Ubuntu LTS, which itself depends on outdated Debian... too many layers. Plus, the Mint team must allocate resources to support LMDE, showing a lack of focus. I’d prefer a system that’s truly exceptional. I attempted Mint several years ago and recently, and I really enjoy it, but its performance is slow, hardware compatibility is limited compared to others, and fractional scaling isn’t available. That makes it less appealing when MX Linux exists. Fixing these issues would make it worth trying again once they clarify their direction. On an older dual-core machine a few years back, Mint wasn’t faster than the W11; modern distros are much quicker. We can debate all day, but Mint seems unsuitable for most users. It might be better to try another distribution. Linux isn’t like Windows, where almost any hardware works. Ubuntu/Mint are just automated suggestions for newcomers. Ten years ago those might have been smart choices, but today there are many fresh, beginner-friendly options. That’s why I argue you should test real systems, not just virtual ones.
Choose it as one. It doesn’t make sense to mislead newcomers by calling things “simplified” when they’re not. That adds confusion and slows their Linux experience more than clarifying what’s available. Kernel → distro → DE (or WM), keeping three points in mind will help. Mint 22.2 comes with a clean install at 6.14. The CPU used in the OP’s Framework isn’t new; it’s compatible with version 6.8 or higher. As noted, I prefer newer kernels, but the one included should work on this system.
The desktop setup defines how you interact with your computer—showing windows, buttons, taskbars, menus, and more. It’s managed by Windows Shell or File Explorer on Windows, Quartz/Aqua/Finder on macOS, and varies by Linux distribution. Linux Mint comes pre-installed with Cinnamon. The kernel serves as the bridge between the operating system and hardware, handling tasks like CPU scheduling, memory management, security features, and device drivers. On Windows, it uses Windows NT; macOS relies on Darwin; Linux depends on the Linux Kernel. Additional layers exist but aren’t crucial here. You’re running Linux Mint 22.2, which should start with GRUB, load the Linux Kernel 6.14.x, and open Cinnamon Desktop Environment along with necessary services. If this doesn’t work, something after the boot process failed—possibly the kernel loading or Cinnamon installation. Consider a fresh install. If needed, Fedora’s KDE Plasma offers a similar interface, and it’s officially supported by Framework. Mint appears only on community-supported distributions; see their list here: https://frame.work/linux.