Mini PC with giant APU: Framework presents the desktop

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Framework is no longer just a notebook manufacturer. With the newcomer, simply called Desktop, the company is presenting its first mini PC. Like the Framework laptops, the Framework Desktop is designed to be particularly user-friendly thanks to its simple structure. The enclosed screwdriver is sufficient for any modifications. The mini-ITX mainboard and processor are also sold separately.

At the heart of the Framework Desktop is the fastest combined processor series for consumer devices: AMD's Ryzen AI Max 300 with a particularly powerful integrated graphics unit. Framework offers three variants: The base configuration features the eight-core Ryzen AI Max 385 with 32 GByte LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and integrated Radeon 8050S (2048 shaders, 2.8 GHz).

The top model Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is used in the two more expensive models. It combines 16 Zen 5 cores with a Radeon 8060S (2560 shaders, 2.9 GHz) and 64 GB of LPDDR5X 8000 RAM in the mid-range configuration and 128 GB in the most expensive configuration.

Framework operates all three Ryzen variants with a permanent 120 watts plus a short-term 140 watt boost as standard. Because AMD solders the memory directly onto the processor carrier, it cannot be expanded or replaced. All other components can be replaced individually, as usual with Framework.

USB4, HDMI 2.1, Displayport 2.1

There are two M.2 slots for SSDs (PCI Express 4.0 x4, M-Key) and a third for a WLAN module (E-Key). There is a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot for an expansion card – Graphics cards do not fit, but are not intended due to the powerful Radeon GPU.

On the connection side, there are two USB4 ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, two Displayport 2.1 ports (apparently 40 Gbit/s each), 5 Gbit/s Ethernet, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (5 Gbit/s, formerly known as USB 3.0) and an audio combo jack. Two USB front ports with 10 Gbit/s each (USB 3.2 Gen 2) are provided for cases.

Own mini-ITX housing

Framework has designed its own 4.5-liter case – but the Mini-ITX mainboard also fits into conventional PC cases and works with standard ATX power supplies. Only a 24-pin ATX connector and an eight-pin EPS connector are required for operation. Framework itself builds a 400-watt power supply unit in compact Flex-ATX format into the underside of the case. Two of the USB-C modules that Framework originally designed for its notebooks fit into the bottom of the front. This means you can choose from USB-A, USB-C, a card reader or other ports.

The heat sink is supplied by Cooler Master. Instead of thermal paste, there is a phase change pad from Honeywell (PTM7958). Buyers can choose between two fan variants from Cooler Master or Noctua's high-end NF-A12x25 HS-PWM fan. All three run at up to 2400 revolutions per minute. There are no case fans, just numerous openings to allow air to circulate. There is a 40 mm fan in the power supply unit, which switches off at low loads.

It starts at 1279 euros

The basic version with Ryzen AI Max 385, 32 GB RAM and without SSD or USB-C modules costs 1279 euros. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with 64 GB costs 1859 euros and the 128 GB version 2329 euros. In addition to Windows 11, all kinds of Linux operating systems run on the computer.

Buyers have to choose 21 "tiles" for the front. Seven of them cost 12 to 18 euros, and there are also several logo variants. A USB front module costs between 10 and 45 euros. If you have the money, you can also buy an SSD module as an alternative to the USB stick. 250 GBytes cost 50 euros, 1 TByte is available for 140.

Delivery is scheduled to begin at the start of the third quarter of 2025. The mainboard, CPU and RAM will then also be available separately.

(mma)