Framework, renowned for its modular and easily repairable laptops, has just announced the launch of its inaugural desktop computer. This compact desktop PC is surprisingly powerful given its size.
What truly stands out, however, is the technology embedded in the device. Framework is among the pioneering companies to incorporate AMD’s new Strix Halo architecture, also referred to as the Ryzen AI Max processors. This all-in-one processing unit is expected to deliver impressive performance.
In essence, Framework has created a PC tailored for two distinct groups: individuals seeking a compact gaming machine or those aiming to run large language models on personal hardware.
Visually, the Framework Desktop resembles more of a toy than a traditional computer. It boasts a small 4.5L footprint, housing a mini-ITX motherboard, which is notably smaller than both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
The device features a customizable front panel, complete with 21 interchangeable plastic tiles. Customers purchasing a Framework Desktop through the company’s website can choose from various tile colors and designs to personalize their front panel.
Along with the standard ports typically found on mini-ITX motherboards, Framework’s signature expansion cards are positioned at the bottom of the unit—two on the front and two on the back. Users can select from an extensive array of modules, including USB-C and USB-A ports, a headphone jack, an SD card reader, and even a storage expansion card.
Internally, the configuration is straightforward: It encompasses the motherboard with AMD’s accelerated processing unit, a cooling fan, a heat sink, a power supply, and two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for storage expansion.
The AMD Strix Halo APU is affixed to the motherboard, and Framework offers two configurations—AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 and AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The higher-end version features 16 CPU cores, 40 graphics cores, and 80MB of cache, while the entry-level version includes 8 CPU cores, 32 graphics cores, and 40MB of cache.
But you may wonder, where is the RAM? This aspect could be contentious, as Framework provides 32GB to 128GB of soldered RAM. Unfortunately, upgrades for RAM in the future are not possible.
“We had to diverge from conventional PC design when it comes to memory. To harness the incredible 256GB/s memory bandwidth facilitated by the Ryzen AI Max, we opted for soldered LPDDR5x,” explained Framework CEO Nirav Patel in the company blog post wrote.
“We spent months collaborating with AMD to find alternatives, but ultimately found it unfeasible to achieve modular memory at the high throughput required for the 256-bit memory bus,” he added.
Nevertheless, having up to 128GB of unified memory opens a realm of possibilities for running large language models. The Llama 3.3 70B can operate smoothly using tools like Ollama, llama.cpp, and various other open-source applications for local AI tasks.
Other models from Mistral, Nous, Hermes, or DeepSeek should perform well too. Additionally, Framework markets the motherboard separately, allowing enthusiasts to create setups like mini-racks with four Framework Desktop motherboards working in unison for AI experimentation.
The entry-level Framework Desktop is priced at $1,099, while the premium model retails for $1,999. Similar to other Framework products, the company guarantees compatibility with Windows as well as popular Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, and its gaming-optimized variant Bazzite.
Pre-orders are currently available, with deliveries scheduled to begin in early Q3 2025.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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