In an industry saturated with traditional designs, the Framework company continues to carve its niche with a distinctive approach to computing. Known primarily for its modular and easily repairable laptops, Framework has now expanded its horizons by introducing its inaugural desktop PC. The Framework Desktop is not just another entry into the burgeoning desktop market; it represents a significant advancement in miniaturization while challenging preconceptions about the capabilities of compact computers. Featuring a miniature footprint, this device combines innovative architecture with high-performance specifications, catering to two specific consumer segments: gamers seeking compact setups and AI developers who require local computing power for language models.
Upon first glance, the Framework Desktop may come off as unassuming, resembling a toy more than a robust desktop computer. However, its small 4.5-liter form factor, built around a mini-ITX motherboard, belies the powerhouse within. Notably smaller than gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, the Framework Desktop has drawn attention with its customizable aesthetic. Consumers can personalize the front panel using 21 available interchangeable plastic tiles in various colors and patterns, making each unit unique before it even leaves the seller’s site.
Apart from its striking appearance, the device features essential connectivity options, including Framework’s signature expansion cards. These cards allow for configuration versatility with additional ports like USB-C or USB-A, alongside flexible storage options, enhancing the overall user experience—an aspect often overlooked by competitors in the compact computing realm.
Digging into the specifications, the Framework Desktop showcases a pair of impressive options powered by AMD’s Strix Halo architecture, the latest in the Ryzen AI Max processor line. With configurations available from the Ryzen AI Max 385, featuring eight CPU cores and 32 graphics cores, to the more robust Ryzen AI Max+ 395, sporting 16 CPU cores and 40 graphics cores, the performance parameters are set for serious tasks. These configurations also boast up to 128GB of LPDDR5x RAM, providing substantial memory bandwidth critical for demanding applications.
Yet, this design decision comes with a caveat. The memory is soldered onto the mainboard, undeniably eliciting mixed responses from potential consumers. While some appreciate the trade-off for increased memory speeds and throughput—256 GB/s—others lament the inability to upgrade RAM after purchase. Framework CEO Nirav Patel addressed this nuance, explaining that achieving modular memory at such a high throughput was technically unfeasible. While this soldered approach may deter some, it does offer significant advantages, particularly for users planning to leverage the system for complex language models like Llama 3.3 70B.
The Framework Desktop perfectly encapsulates the aspirations of evolving computing needs. With AI model execution becoming a significant focus in the tech landscape, having a capable local computer can facilitate smoother operations for AI engineers and developers. Users can seamlessly run various open-weight models from institutions like Mistral and DeepSeek without experiencing performance issues. Furthermore, the introduction of an optional mini-rack configuration allowing four Framework Desktop mainboards to operate in tandem presents an enticing option for data-intensive tasks or extensive testing.
The pricing structure of the Framework Desktop remains competitive, with the entry-level model starting at $1,099 and the high-end model priced at $1,999. This pricing positions the desktop as an intriguing option for consumers exploring mid-range performance with an inclination toward specialty use cases.
With pre-orders already underway and shipments expected to commence in early Q3 2025, the Framework Desktop is poised to make a significant impact on the desktop computing realm. It aligns with a growing demand for customizable, performance-driven compact systems tailored to diverse users’ needs. Supporting both prominent operating systems, including Windows and several Linux variants, the Framework Desktop is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing a flexible computing experience.
Framework’s debut in the desktop market is not merely a transition; it signifies a bold step towards redefining the standards for compact computing. By balancing size, performance, and modularity, the Framework Desktop could very well inspire future designs in the industry. As technology continues to evolve, the focus on individualized computing experiences could hinge upon innovative designs like this one, showcasing that powerful performance and small form factors can indeed coexist harmoniously.