Framework unveils the Framework Desktop. That’s a compact mini-desktop that still has solid specifications courtesy of the AMD Ryzen AI Max CPU inside. That guarantees a lot of horsepower, though at the expense of the modularity Framework prides itself on.
Framework is showing its first desktop computer: the Framework Desktop. This is a mini-PC in a 4.5-liter case. Framework wants to extend its expertise built up with the laptop to desktop computers. Modularity is therefore in its DNA. For example, you can choose the I/O ports on the front, and dress up the front of the device as you choose. You can also customize storage at will.
AMD Ryzen AI Max
For performance, Framework relies on the new AMD Ryzen AI Max series of APUs. Those on those chips effectively combine AMD an entire workstation. The AMD Max processors combine one powerful Zen 5 CPU with an integrated GPU and a large amount of integrated memory. AMD uses a proprietary memory architecture where CPU and GPU have fast access to the RAM, and the GPU can claim up to 95 GB of RAM.
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Framework shows mini-desktop with Max processor
That approach theoretically guarantees very efficient, yet high performance, ideal for photo and video editing, AI development and even suitable for gaming. For example, the high amount of available graphics memory allows developers to load a model such as Llama 70B.
Less modular
On the other hand, Framework has to give up some of its famous modularity. In AMD’s Max series, CPU, GPU and system memory form one inseparable whole. So it is not possible to upgrade RAM memory, for example. This implies that when you purchase it, you should immediately choose carefully which AMD Ryzen AI Max you want in your Framework Desktop. The following options are available:
- With Max 385: 3.6 GHz / 5 GHz 8 core CPU, Radeon 8050S graphics (32 CUs), 32 GB RAM
- With Max+ 395: 3 GHz / 5.1 GHz 16 core CPU, Radeon 8060S graphics (40 CUs), 64 GB RAM
- With the same Max + 395 but 128 GB of RAM.
Price and beshcikability.
Price and availability vary with the model chosen. If you only buy the Framework Desktop box without operating system or SSD, the device has a starting price of 1,279 euros (including VAT) but you have to provide OS, storage memory and even the CPU fan yourself. The base version with Max 382 and 32 GB RAM, equipped with all the essentials (such as 500 GB SSD, Windows 11 Home, and a fan for the CPU) is available from 1,638 euros and will be delivered from the third quarter.
The base price for the Framework Desktop with Max+ 395 and 64 GB of RAM costs 1,859 euros without accessories, the edition with 128 GB costs 2,329 euros. Again, you have to count on an availability starting in Q3.