Framework, the company known for its user-buildable laptops, has officially announced its first desktop computer, aptly named the Framework Desktop. This compact mini-PC measures just 205mm deep, 96mm wide, and 226mm tall, offering users an innovative blend of size and power. The Framework Desktop maintains the company's commitment to modularity by allowing users to insert expansion cards for various inputs, including USB-C, USB-A, and MicroSD slots, as well as options for additional storage.
Equipped with the new AMD Ryzen AI Max APU, the Framework Desktop promises exceptional gaming performance. Consumers can choose between two configurations: the Max 385 with 32GB of memory or the higher-end Max+ 395 featuring either 64GB or 128GB of memory. According to benchmarks released by Framework, this desktop is capable of running games like Monster Hunter World at over 60 frames per second (FPS) at 1440p and hitting more than 70 FPS for Cyberpunk 2077. Such performance positions it ontop of comparable gaming systems, even surpassing the RTX 4070 laptop GPU.
Adding to the excitement, Framework has also unveiled significant upgrades for its popular Framework Laptop 13. This latest refresh includes the powerful AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, which incorporate newer Zen 5 cores and Radeon RDNA 3.5 graphics technology. Customers will have the option between Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, or the high-end Ryzen 9 HX model, providing flexibility to tailor their machines according to their needs. Framework has been praised for offering eco-conscious solutions; originally launched as models equipped with 11th-generation Intel CPUs, the updated Laptop 13 allows customers to upgrade to the newer Ryzen AI chips, adding longevity to their devices.
"We’re probably the only company who can announce a product...and get cheers," remarked Nirav Patel, Framework Founder during the livestream announcement. It is this enduring commitment to upgradeability and sustainability, combined with the newfound processor power, which encapsulates Framework's philosophy.
Not to be overlooked, Framework also announced its new Framework Laptop 12, aimed at entry-level buyers including students and young professionals. This 12.2-inch convertible notebook is marketed as affordable without skimping on quality. The Laptop 12 will feature 13th Gen Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, up to 48GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB of NVMe SSD storage, as well as Wi-Fi 6E support. The display boasts 1920 x 1200 resolution at over 400 nits of brightness, accommodating touch and stylus capabilities.
Framework has zeroed in on the problems pervasive within traditional entry-level laptops, stating, "We build products to fix what we see as a broken industry." The company’s philosophy emphasizes longevity—allowing consumers to upgrade or repair rather than discard their devices after use. With such features, Framework seeks to redefine the low-cost laptop market.
The Framework 12 will come dressed in vibrant colors, appealing to younger audiences who may lean toward aesthetic choices. A novel design approach using shock-absorbing materials promises increased durability, making it the easiest product to repair yet. It's refreshing to see how thoughtfully crafted these entries are compared to many existing disposable devices.
Prices for the Framework products reflect their quality and sustainability focus. The Framework Desktop is slated to ship later this year with pre-orders available now, though specific pricing details were not disclosed. For the Framework Laptop 13, personal configurations start at $899 for the DIY version and go up to $1,099 for assembled units. The Ryzen AI 300 Series laptops will also be offered starting at $499 for just the mainboard upgrade, representing fantastic potential for existing Framework users.
The Laptop 12, opening up pre-orders next April 2025, serves as an exciting expansion to Framework's existing offerings. Its combination of pricing, powering capabilities, and appealing design places it squarely as Framework's bid to shake up the entry-level market.
For those interested, these new modules highlight the unique opportunities within the brand, particularly for anyone tired of the disposable tech trend which plagues countless electronics today. Framework’s commitment to rethink user experience—constructing products meant to last, with easy upgrades and repairs—should resonate well as technology crosses paths with environmental consciousness.