This Tiny 4.5L PC Has 128GB of RAM - Meet the Framework Desktop, 2025's Modular Mini-ITX Monster

Key Facts at a Glance

• What is it? A 4.5-liter mini-ITX desktop PC by Framework (known for modular laptops) focusing on high-performance integrated computing with AMD’s Ryzen “Strix Halo” processors community.frame.work theverge.com. It’s small enough to tote (about the size of a couple of hardcover books) but packs serious CPU/GPU power and up to 128GB soldered RAM theverge.com frame.work.
• Performance & Use Case: Built around AMD Ryzen AI Max 300-series APUs (up to 16 Zen 5 CPU cores + Radeon 8060S graphics) with performance roughly comparable to a desktop RTX 4060 GPU for 1440p gaming pcgamer.com. Geared toward AI developers, creators, and power users – it can run large AI models locally (e.g. Llama 70B) and handle content creation or moderate gaming, but it’s not a 4K ultra gaming rig theverge.com theverge.com.
• Modularity & Repairability: Uses standard PC parts where possible – the mainboard is Mini-ITX and even sold separately, the PSU is a FlexATX 400W unit, and it accepts any 120mm PC fan community.frame.work community.frame.work. Unique Expansion Card system (2 front slots for USB, audio, storage, etc.) lets you customize I/O tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. However, CPU, GPU, and RAM are soldered to the board (for technical reasons), meaning upgrades to those require swapping the whole mainboard theverge.com community.frame.work. Storage (dual M.2 SSD slots) and the Wi-Fi module are readily upgradeable tomshardware.com.
• Design & Customization: Compact 4.5L chassis with a modern minimalist look (black or translucent side panel options). The front face has 21 removable “tiles” that you can arrange or 3D-print in different colors/designs for personalization community.frame.work tomshardware.com. An optional built-in carrying handle is coming soon for portability frame.work. The machine is quiet and runs cool, with a bespoke heatpipe heatsink and your choice of 120mm fan (Noctua or Cooler Master) frame.work frame.work.
• Pricing & Availability: Starts at $1,099 (DIY kit with 8-core/32GB model) and up to $1,999 for the 16-core/128GB version community.frame.work theverge.com. These are “DIY Edition” kits, meaning you must add storage, OS, and any desired expansion cards/tiles (Framework offers SSDs, Windows licenses, etc. at extra cost) theverge.com. Framework opened pre-orders in early 2025, with first shipments in Q3 2025 community.frame.work. High demand: units are made in batches and as of mid-2025 were sold out until after October pcworld.com. A pre-built option (assembled for you) is also available for an added fee pcworld.com.
• Reception: Generally positive – praised for innovative design, ease of assembly, and potent performance in a tiny footprint. Reviews highlight it as “refreshing” and “endearing” in the SFF PC space theverge.com. It scored 8/10 in a Verge review theverge.com and earned an Editor’s Choice from PCWorld pcworld.com pcworld.com. Critics note significant trade-offs: it’s expensive for the gaming performance on offer theverge.com, and unlike most desktops, core components aren’t user-upgradeable, sparking debate about its “modularity” claims theverge.com theverge.com.

Overview of the Framework Desktop (Features, Specs, Build)

The Framework Desktop’s front panel is composed of 21 swappable tiles (one removed here), allowing personal customization of color and design. Two front Expansion Card slots (bottom left) let you choose I/O ports (USB-C, USB-A, audio jack, SD reader, etc.) using the same modular card system as Framework’s laptops community.frame.work tomshardware.com.

A Small Form Factor Beast: The Framework Desktop is a 4.5 L mini workstation that punches above its weight. At roughly 96.8 × 205.5 × 226.1 mm in size (and ~3.1 kg weight) frame.work frame.work, it’s truly tiny for a desktop – about the footprint of a game console or Mac Mini-style device, just a bit taller. Framework managed to fit a full Mini-ITX motherboard, a FlexATX power supply, and a 120mm cooling system inside this compact case theverge.com. The design language is clean and understated – a silver-on-black chassis with subtle Framework branding. Build materials are a mix of plastic and aluminum (50% post-consumer recycled aluminum in the shell) frame.work. You can choose a solid black side panel or a translucent clear panel ($40 extra) to show off the internals tomshardware.com. The top panel attaches with two thumbscrews (and can eventually host an optional carry handle) frame.work tomshardware.com. Overall, it’s a minimalist, utilitarian aesthetic – almost “industrial-chic,” which one reviewer described as “endearing and unmistakably Framework” theverge.com.

Core Specs: The Framework Desktop is built around AMD’s Ryzen AI Max “Strix Halo” processors, which are integrated CPU+GPU (APU) chips that blur the line between laptop and desktop silicon. Two chip options are offered: the Ryzen AI Max 385 (8-core/16-thread CPU, 32 RDNA3.5 GPU compute units, 32GB LPDDR5x) and the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (16-core/32-thread, 40 CUs, 64GB or 128GB LPDDR5x) frame.work frame.work. These chips come soldered to the mainboard along with quad-channel LPDDR5x-8000 memory (either 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB depending on model) frame.work. Clock speeds reach up to ~5.0–5.1 GHz boost on the CPU cores, and the integrated Radeon 8060S GPU runs up to ~2.8–2.9 GHz frame.work. Notably, the 8060S APU graphics are far more powerful than typical integrated GPUs – roughly equivalent to a mid-range discrete card. In fact, the top 16-core Strix Halo chip delivers gaming performance in the ballpark of an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 (desktop) or Intel Arc A580, according to PC Gamer’s tests pcgamer.com. This means the Framework Desktop can handle modern games at 1080p or 1440p with medium-high settings. However, it’s not suited for 4K ultra gaming – pushing to 4K requires dropping quality significantly theverge.com. The real strength of these APUs is in AI and compute workloads: thanks to 128GB of fast unified memory and a built-in NPU (Neural Engine) delivering 50 TOPS of AI acceleration frame.work frame.work, the Framework Desktop can run large AI models locally that typically need hefty GPUs or cloud servers community.frame.work.

Storage and Expansion: The system provides two M.2 2280 NVMe slots (PCIe 4.0 x4 each) for SSDs, supporting up to 8TB each (16TB total) frame.work. No drives are included in the base kit (DIY ethos), so users can bring their own storage or purchase pre-selected SSDs from Framework. Networking is high-end: an AMD RZ717 Wi-Fi 7 card is pre-installed for Wi-Fi 6E/7 and Bluetooth, plus 5 Gbit Ethernet (Realtek RTL8126) on the board frame.work frame.work. The rear I/O is fixed on the mainboard and includes 2× USB4 Type-C (Thunderbolt-compatible), 2× USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 1× HDMI 2.1, 2× DisplayPort 2.1, the 5 GbE RJ45 jack, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack frame.work frame.work. This selection is quite generous for such a small PC, enabling up to four monitors out-of-box (HDMI/DP ports) along with high-speed USB and networking. In addition, the motherboard has standard headers for things like extra USB, front panel, and even a PCIe x4 slot (though in Framework’s case design that slot isn’t externally accessible) frame.work frame.work.

Where Framework puts its signature twist is the front expansion system: the front panel has two bays for hot-swappable Expansion Cards, identical to those on Framework Laptops tomshardware.com. These cards (sold separately, ~$10–$39 each) let you add specific ports or features – e.g. USB-C, USB-A, MicroSD or full SD reader, an extra 2.5Gb Ethernet jack, a second audio jack, or even a tiny USB-powered SSD module tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. You get to pick any two to install at the front, customizing the I/O to your needs. For daily convenience, one can, for example, slot in a front USB-C and front USB-A (as many reviewers did) tomshardware.com; or a headphone jack module for easy headset access, etc. The trade-off is that only having two module bays limits how many front ports you can have at once – one Tom’s Hardware editor noted “just by eyeballing it, it’s clear Framework could have fit more ports on [the front] without the cards” if they’d simply wired them directly tomshardware.com. In other words, the modular card approach sacrifices a bit of port density in exchange for flexibility. The 21 front panel tiles surrounding the port bays are purely cosmetic (they cover the rest of the front face). They attach magnetically and can be ordered in various colors/designs or 3D-printed by users community.frame.work. Unfortunately, these tiles are not bundled with the base unit – if you don’t purchase a tile pack, you’ll have empty square holes on the front tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. Many reviewers flagged this as a mild annoyance, essentially an extra ~$10–15 accessory for a “complete” look.

Cooling & Acoustics: Despite its high 120W+ TDP chip, the Framework Desktop manages cooling with a single large heatsink and fan. The custom heatsink comes pre-mounted on the CPU, featuring six copper heatpipes and a dense array of aluminum fins tomshardware.com. You get to choose one 120mm fan (or bring your own) that screws onto the heatsink; Framework offers a quiet Noctua NF-A12x25 or two Cooler Master Mobius options (one with RGB lighting) frame.work frame.work. All three fan options spin up to ~2400 RPM and have max noise in the 29–34 dBA range frame.work frame.work – meaning the system stays relatively quiet under load. In testing, reviewers found it “quiet and cool”, even during sustained AI or gaming tasks pcgamer.com. The case’s side panels are perforated for airflow, and there was originally a plan to support an extra slim 92mm front fan, but the team found it unnecessary as the single CPU fan provided enough cooling for the whole system tomshardware.com. The internal PSU has its own small fan with 0-RPM idle mode frame.work. Overall, thermals appear well-handled – no throttling issues were reported in reviews, and the small case did not become overly hot to touch.

Inside the Framework Desktop: The Mini-ITX mainboard (center) comes pre-installed with the processor, RAM, and cooling solution. Users just need to add an SSD (which slots in on the back of the board) and attach a 120mm fan on the heatsink. Framework touts it as “the easiest PC you’ll ever build,” with detailed step-by-step instructions included tomshardware.com pcworld.com.

Assembly & Upgrades: Framework sells the Desktop primarily as a DIY kit, but don’t let that intimidate you – it’s nearly fully assembled out of the box. In fact, building it is far simpler than a typical PC build. The motherboard, CPU, RAM, Wi-Fi card, power supply, and heatsink are all pre-installed at the factory tomshardware.com. To “finish” the build, you basically unscrew the side panel and plug in your SSD(s) (one on the top side, and optionally a second M.2 on the underside of the board) and mount the fan on the heatsink tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. That’s it – no thermal paste to apply, no wiring for front panels (it’s a single-board design), and a handy long screwdriver is included in the box for the few screws involved tomshardware.com. Most reviewers reported a complete assembly time of 10–20 minutes tomshardware.com, with Framework’s online guide walking through each step. This makes it an appealing entry point for newcomers to PC building, or anyone who finds standard builds too tedious. As PCWorld noted, it’s a “DIY desktop without the complexity of building from scratch” – almost like a high-tech LEGO kit pcworld.com.

When it comes to upgradeability, the Framework Desktop is a tale of two philosophies. On the one hand, it embraces PC standards: the chassis will fit any Mini-ITX motherboard, the PSU is a standard format, the fan is standard – meaning down the line you could replace the mainboard with a newer one (either from Framework or any ITX board that fits) and keep using the same case and PSU community.frame.work pcgamer.com. In fact, Framework sells the Strix Halo mainboard standalone ($799), and even encourages tinkerers to transplant it into other SFF cases if they want community.frame.work community.frame.work. On the other hand, the soldered-on CPU, GPU, and RAM mean internal component swaps are limited. You cannot upgrade the RAM or processor independently – to get a more powerful chip or more memory, you’d have to replace the entire mainboard theverge.com. This is the opposite of typical desktops (where you might swap CPU, add RAM, etc.), and even a step down from Framework’s own laptops which allow RAM upgrades. Framework made this design choice to achieve the 256-bit memory bus needed for 128GB LPDDR5 at 8000 MT/s; they claim they “spent months” trying to support standard DIMMs but it wasn’t feasible at that bandwidth community.frame.work. The result is a bit controversial among PC enthusiasts: some feel Framework “stepped away from PC norms” of modularity in order to hit these performance targets community.frame.work theverge.com. Ars Technica pointed out the irony that Framework’s first desktop is actually less upgradeable than most desktops, even though Framework’s brand is built on upgradeability theverge.com. Still, certain upgrades are easy: storage drives, the Wi-Fi/BT card, the fan, and any external peripherals. And critically, if future APUs or boards come out (say a next-gen Strix Halo), you could swap the entire board – akin to a console or laptop upgrade path. The big unknown is whether Framework (or the industry) will continue producing such boards in the same form factor.

Right-to-Repair and Support: True to Framework’s ethos, the Desktop is designed for repairability. The company publishes repair guides and makes replacement parts available on their marketplace. The mainboard is essentially a single-field-replaceable unit for all core silicon. All screws are standardized and the enclosure opens tool-free or with a single screwdriver. There’s no software lock-in – you can install Windows or Linux freely (no “Secure Boot” hassles). In fact, Linux support is first-class: testers report that Ubuntu and other distros work out-of-box; Phoronix lauded the machine for “excellent, Linux-friendly performance” and full driver support on day onetechmeme.com. There’s no proprietary BIOS whitelisting, and even the firmware (UEFI) is being improved with community feedback (Framework has a track record of open-source EC code and Coreboot experimentation on their laptops). This makes the Framework Desktop stand out as a pro-right-to-repair, open-platform device in a segment where many mini PCs (like Intel NUCs or Apple Mac Minis) are not as serviceable or flexible.

Expert Opinions & Public Reception

General Reception: The Framework Desktop garnered a lot of interest in mid-2025 as an unusual entrant in the small-form-factor (SFF) PC market. Overall, professional reviews have been positive, often highlighting how unique this product is. The Verge’s Antonio G. Di Benedetto confessed that it “made me fall for small form factor PCs” all over again theverge.com, calling it “refreshing” despite SFF PCs not being new. Reviewers uniformly praised the tiny-yet-mighty design: “impressively small for what it offers… just large enough to fit the essentials” theverge.com. Many were charmed by the little details, from the printed labels and instructions on components to the magnetic tiles and overall build quality, describing an “overall sense of quality” in the engineering pcworld.com pcworld.com. PCWorld’s editor went so far as to call it a “thoughtfully engineered” SFF machine that’s “made with love”, awarding it an Editor’s Choice for blending enthusiast features with approachability pcworld.com pcworld.com.

Ease of Build & Design Praise: One recurring theme is how easy and friendly the Desktop is. Multiple reviewers noted that Framework’s documentation is top-notch, with extremely detailed assembly guides – even little stickers and etched hints on the hardware itself to guide you pcworld.com. This hand-holding, while unnecessary for hardcore builders, makes the product inviting to a broader audience. “The Framework Desktop may be the easiest PC you’ve ever built,” wrote one community member, noting the precise, clear instructions provided community.frame.work. The design elements like the swappable front tiles and expansion cards were often described as “fun” and novel customization features that add personality to the PC tomshardware.com pcworld.com. “It’s small, it’s relatively quiet, it has a handy sleep mode with remote wake-up, and the front tiles are even rotatable,” gushed one Verge piece about living with the device, clearly enamored with its quirky charm theverge.com. Several reviewers also commented on the portability factor – at under 7 pounds and with a compact footprint, it’s easy to carry room to room or even bring to LAN parties. The Verge called it “easy to transport… slip into a backpack, no problem,” especially with the handle accessory theverge.com. This is a niche appeal, but for those who ever lug their PC around, a SFF like this is liberating.

Performance & Use Cases: Experts generally agree the Framework Desktop delivers solid performance for its size, but they carefully frame its best use cases. Engadget summed it up by calling the machine “muscular and powerful” yet “perhaps not for everyone” – noting it excels in certain tasks but not others engadget.com. The integrated Radeon 8060S GPU impressed many by holding its own in gaming tests: Tom’s Hardware found 1080p gaming to be very smooth and even 1440p playable on high settings in many titles tomshardware.com. The Verge managed “respectable frame rates at 2.5K resolution” on modern games with the 8-core base model theverge.com – a remarkable feat for an iGPU. However, all reviewers caution that if pure gaming is your goal, you can do better with a different PC at the same price. The lack of a discrete GPU is the Achilles’ heel for gaming enthusiasts. “Not for 4K gaming unless you turn settings way, way down,” The Verge noted bluntly in its Pros/Cons list theverge.com. PC Gamer was more direct: “that chip isn’t a gaming chip; AMD folk have said that to us explicitly,” their review stated pcgamer.com. It can run games, even at times approaching an RTX 3060/4060 laptop level, but it’s really positioned as an “AI workstation” and productivity machine more than a traditional gaming rig pcgamer.com pcgamer.com. In fact, the high-end config with 128GB RAM is overkill for gaming but a boon for AI and data science folks. As one Reddit comment put it, “It’s their stab at an AI workstation competing in the same space as Mac Minis,” not an attempt to unseat dedicated gaming desktops reddit.com. Those who have been waiting for a way to experiment with large language models or stable diffusion locally have applauded the Framework Desktop – one can run hefty models without offloading to a server, thanks to that abundant fast memory. Content creators (video editors, 3D artists) who rely on GPU acceleration are more lukewarm, since the integrated GPU, while strong for an APU, still pales next to high-end discrete cards in pro apps.

Modularity Critiques: Perhaps the most controversial aspect discussed is the device’s modularity (or lack thereof) compared to Framework’s earlier products. A portion of the tech community expected a “Framework Desktop” to be a fully modular, configurable platform – maybe even with a socketed CPU or GPU slot. Instead, Framework delivered what Ars Technica called “a mash-up of a regular desktop PC and the Mac Studio”, leaning closer to the Mac side in sealed-integrated design arstechnica.com. Some critics and early adopters on Framework’s forum expressed disappointment that the modularity is mainly in aesthetics and I/O, not in the core components community.frame.work. “I don’t really see the value over other options currently available,” one user wrote, arguing that aside from the cute tiles and port flexibility, it’s basically a fixed configuration mini PC like many others community.frame.work. This sentiment is not universal, but it underscores that Framework’s target market might be different here – more general consumers and professionals rather than the tinker-everything crowd. As PC Gamer noted, the “endless upgradeability” ethos of Framework has far less potency in desktops, since desktops are by nature already modular – and indeed, a typical DIY Mini-ITX build would allow swapping CPU, GPU, RAM at will pcgamer.com pcgamer.com. By soldering those parts, Framework undercut its own selling point for some enthusiasts. “You can only have two ports of your choosing [up front]… it’s clear they could have fit more without the cards,” Tom’s Hardware likewise critiqued, suggesting the modular Expansion Cards felt a bit unnecessary on a desktop where space isn’t as constrained tomshardware.com.

That said, many reviewers defend Framework’s choices here as pragmatic and forward-looking. The soldered RAM was a technical necessity – without it, the machine couldn’t have the same bandwidth or compactness community.frame.work. And the lack of PCIe x16 for a GPU is by design, to keep the chassis tiny; Framework essentially bet on a future where high-end APUs (like Strix Halo) make bulky GPUs optional for a segment of users. In the present, this puts the Desktop in a bit of a niche: “It’s not a traditional small form factor PC, either,” wrote The Verge, highlighting that it’s neither a no-compromises gaming tower nor a super-cheap mini PC – it’s something new theverge.com. For those who understand what it is meant for, the reception has been positive. Creative professionals who value a small, quiet system for editing or AI research have been intrigued. Developers who want a powerful Linux box on their desk without building a full PC have also given positive feedback. And importantly, the device has no bloatware and no forced OEM crud – even Windows comes clean if you opt for it, which won applause from buyers tired of trial software on prebuilts theverge.com theverge.com.

Pricing and Value: On the topic of price, the consensus is that Framework Desktop isn’t cheap – you’re paying a premium for its compact, integrated design and boutique brand. Starting at $1,099 for a barebones 8-core system (no SSD, no OS) is on the higher end of SFF DIY kits. Fully equipped, most review units ended up ~$1,500–$2,500 depending on config pcworld.com pcworld.com. For example, The Verge’s recommended configuration (with 16-core/64GB, a mid-tier fan, a 512GB SSD, two expansion cards, Windows license, etc.) came to about $1,887 theverge.com theverge.com. PCWorld’s unit with all the bells and whistles (128GB, 2TB SSD, tiles, etc.) was around $2,515 pcworld.com pcworld.com. Reviews often compare this to what that money buys elsewhere: Tom’s Hardware bluntly stated “for the price, you can get a full-on gaming rig with discrete graphics” that would outperform it in games tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. PC Gamer calculated you could build a similarly performing Mini-ITX gaming PC for “at least $1,000 less” albeit in a larger case, if gaming was your priority pcgamer.com. This has led to some split opinions: if you need its unique strengths (AI capability, ultra-small size, Framework’s design), the price is justified; if you just want a small PC for general use, there are cheaper options.

Still, it’s worth noting the Framework Desktop is one of a kind in certain ways – no other mini PC of this size offers 16 cores + 128GB RAM + high-end integrated graphics in one package. That “wild value proposition for AI workloads” at $1999 (as Framework’s blog put it community.frame.work) is hard to replicate without spending much more on a workstation GPU. As The Verge summarized, “None of [the alternatives] are quite like the Framework Desktop. It’s a simple, compact computer that’s good enough for serious gaming or content creation and doesn’t come with a shred of bloatware… competently powerful, incredibly easy to assemble, and unmistakably Framework.” theverge.com. The key for potential buyers is to understand those trade-offs going in.

Current Public Reception: As of August 2025, early adopters who received their units have been sharing experiences on forums and Reddit. Many report satisfaction with the build quality and performance. Some have started tinkering – for instance, running Linux and setting up containers for AI inferencing, or using the USB4 ports to attach an external GPU (eGPU) for additional graphics horsepower when needed. Yes, one workaround for the no-GPU limitation is that via Thunderbolt/USB4, you can hook up an eGPU enclosure, effectively giving the system a desktop GPU externally (at some performance overhead). This wasn’t heavily advertised by Framework, but it’s an option enthusiasts have confirmed works. On the Framework Community forum, feedback has included feature requests like selling the case separately (for those who might want to use the beautiful 4.5L case for other projects) community.frame.work. Some folks are already imagining a future revision with a PCIe x16 slot or a bigger “Framework Desktop 2” that could support a compact GPU – although no such plans have been announced. In general, the first-generation Framework Desktop seems to have found a modest but passionate user base, much like the original Framework Laptop did: people who value its mix of DIY flexibility and pre-engineered convenience.

2025 Updates from Framework (News & Announcements)

2025 has been a busy year for Framework. The launch of the Framework Desktop in Q3 was one major milestone, but the company has also been expanding its laptop lineup and ecosystem:

• Framework Laptop 16: Announced earlier (pre-orders opened in late 2024) and getting a 2025 spec bump, the 16-inch Framework Laptop is a modular gaming/workstation laptop. Notably in 2025 it received an upgrade to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics (a new modular GPU module using Nvidia’s latest 8GB GDDR7 mobile GPU) and AMD “Zen 5” Ryzen HX series CPUs frame.work tomshardware.com. This 16” model is “endlessly customizable,” featuring a dual-SSD bay, swappable keyboard modules, and even the option to add a second screen or input deck via its expansion bay. The 2025 refresh added support for G-Sync displays and updated the expansion bay to accommodate the new GPU. However, it’s worth mentioning that some observers have expressed concern about the uptake of the Laptop 16’s modular GPU concept – as of mid-2025, only the initial AMD GPU and the new RTX 5070 module exist, and Framework hasn’t announced additional GPU options beyond those. Supply chain factors (like AMD exiting the mobile GPU market) have made this a challenge, leading one reviewer to candidly call the Laptop 16’s modular GPU experiment “a failure at this point” due to lack of follow-up models pcgamer.com. Framework, for its part, has reiterated its commitment to the Laptop 16 platform and encouraged third-party development of expansion bay devices.
• Framework Laptop 12: In August 2025, Framework also launched the Laptop 12, a 12.2-inch convertible 2-in-1 notebook aimed at students and budget-conscious users reddit.com. This is a new product line for them, featuring a smaller form factor with a 360° hinge (tablet mode) and stylus support. Importantly, it retains Framework’s hallmark traits: it’s durable and repairable, with upgradeable modules. The Laptop 12 uses an Intel Core U-series or AMD U-series processor (depending on config) and has user-replaceable battery, storage, and expansion card I/O (yes, it uses the same Expansion Cards on its sides). Reviews of the Laptop 12, such as by PCWorld, note that it offers “extreme customizability and repairability” in the budget 2-in-1 space, though with some compromises like middling battery life reddit.com. This product is significant as it shows Framework branching into more affordable, mass-market territory (base models start around $849) and targeting education/Chromebook replacements, a departure from their high-end only offerings.
• Marketplace and Ecosystem Growth: Framework in 2025 has been growing its Marketplace for parts and modules. They’ve introduced things like a higher-capacity battery upgrade for the Laptop 13, new lid colors, and even a DIY Ethernet expansion card designed by the community. They also piloted a Carbon Capture program where you can offset the carbon footprint of your device via the Marketplace frame.work. On the software side, Framework has been active with firmware updates enabling features like BIOS-based fan control options, and continued improving Linux support (they often collaborate with Fedora and Ubuntu engineers to ensure smooth operation).
• Corporate and Education Initiatives: Framework announced partnerships to supply laptops to tech education programs and businesses focused on sustainability. They have a program for bulk orders and are pitching the Framework devices as longer-lasting, lower TCO (total cost of ownership) due to easy part replacement frame.work. Late 2025 also saw them teasing a possible Chromium-based OS support (for the Laptop 12 perhaps) and participation in right-to-repair advocacy at regulatory levels.
• No Desktop 2… Yet: As for the Framework Desktop, there haven’t been announcements of new models beyond the initial AMD-based unit. There is no Intel-based Framework Desktop at this time (the company seems to have chosen AMD’s Strix Halo as the enabler for this form factor). Framework’s blog mentioned that they “shifted the roadmap a year ago” to create this desktop once they saw what the Ryzen AI Max chips could do community.frame.work. Future iterations likely depend on the success of this first one and whether compelling new APUs come out. Some industry rumors suggest AMD may follow up Strix Halo with newer APUs in 2026, potentially giving Framework something to upgrade to. But as of August 2025, no leaks or official hints confirm a second-gen Desktop yet. The company’s focus appears to be fulfilling orders and stabilizing production for the current model (which, as noted, has backorders into late 2025).

In summary, Framework in 2025 is continuing to push modular computing forward – expanding into desktops, convertibles, and refining their laptops – all while maintaining their core philosophy of upgradeable, long-lasting hardware. The Framework Desktop launch is arguably the boldest move, venturing into a new form factor and new customer segment. How it performs in the market will likely shape what Framework does next in the desktop space.

Upcoming Models & Future Outlook

While there haven’t been specific new models announced beyond what’s discussed, it’s interesting to consider the future outlook for the Framework Desktop concept and modular SFF PCs in general:

• Potential Future Iterations: If the first-gen Desktop is well-received, Framework could consider a “Framework Desktop 2” down the line. One possibility (speculation) is a version with a dedicated GPU option – perhaps a slightly larger case (maybe 8–10L) that can house a compact PCIe GPU, or leveraging upcoming technologies like PCIe 5.0 external graphics. However, given Framework’s partnership with AMD on the current unit, another likely route is to wait for AMD’s next APU that could succeed Strix Halo, thereby offering a drop-in mainboard upgrade. The company explicitly designed everything around standards (ITX, FlexATX) so that if they release a new mainboard with, say, “Ryzen AI Max 495” in a year or two, users could swap it in pcgamer.com. Framework has demonstrated this model with their laptops – e.g., people have upgraded 13-inch Framework Laptop mainboards across three CPU generations so far. So, the upgrade path for the Desktop may be via new mainboard releases. No timeline is given, but AMD’s roadmap might indicate something in late 2025 or 2026 for a Strix Halo successor, possibly enabling a refresh.
• Expanded Accessories: In the nearer term, expect more accessories for the current Desktop. The carrying handle is one – it was shown in prototype form and should be released to the public soon frame.work. Also, more front tile designs (Framework open-sourced the 3D models, so community-designed tiles could proliferate) and possibly unique Expansion Cards (imagine, for instance, a front panel OLED display card, or a fan controller, etc., which the community could develop). Framework has hinted at an active community involvement in modding and creating add-ons, similar to how some third parties made custom lid designs and even motherboards (like Cooler Master’s Mainboard case for Framework Laptop mainboards). This ecosystem approach could breathe longevity into the Desktop beyond just official models.
• Competitors Responding: The presence of the Framework Desktop could spur others in the industry to consider modular desktop kits. Intel’s NUC division (now with ASUS) and others are surely watching. If the concept of an APU-based powerful mini PC proves popular (especially for AI at the edge), we might see other OEMs release similar 4–5L mini workstations. For example, Gigabyte, ASUS, or MSI might integrate high-core-count mobile chips into small boxes with large RAM – effectively competing in the same niche. Framework’s differentiator, of course, is their openness and DIY focus, which is hard to replicate by bigger OEMs who prefer locked-down designs. So Framework may remain the go-to for that slice of the market that cares about repairability.
• Challenges: One challenge for the Desktop’s future is tied to silicon trends. The product heavily relies on a chip (Strix Halo) that is something of a one-off marvel – it’s a 120W laptop chip repurposed to act as a desktop CPU/GPU. If AMD (or Intel) don’t continue that category (monolithic high-end APUs), the concept could stagnate. PC Gamer voiced this concern: “I don’t know if AMD is really going to continue developing the Halo platform” they wrote, noting the expense and niche nature of Strix Halo pcgamer.com pcgamer.com. If Strix Halo remains an anomaly, Framework might have to pivot the Desktop to other solutions – perhaps lower-power APUs, or even a discrete GPU approach after all. Alternatively, advancements in external GPU connectivity (like USB4 version 2 at 80 Gbps, or future optical Thunderbolt) might allow the next Framework Desktop to lean more on an eGPU model for those who want graphics oomph, while keeping the main box small.

In any case, Framework’s roadmap has been adaptive (they literally said they shifted plans a year ago to do this Desktop community.frame.work). So, upcoming models will likely depend on community feedback and the evolving tech landscape. Enthusiasts are eagerly hoping for hints of a Framework Desktop with an Intel option (for those who prefer Intel/Nvidia combos) or perhaps a Fanless mini desktop (could Framework make a passive-cooled version in the future? That’d be an interesting twist, albeit challenging at these wattages). As of August 2025, no concrete leaks or announcements confirm any of these, so it’s largely speculation.

The bottom line on upcoming models: stay tuned. Framework has expanded from one laptop in 2021 to multiple form factors in 2025. It wouldn’t be surprising if by 2026 we hear about a new Desktop variant or significant upgrade. The company’s newsletter and blog remain the best places to watch, as they often tease products there first.

Comparison: Framework Desktop vs. Similar Modular/SFF Systems

How does the Framework Desktop stack up against other small form factor and modular PCs on the market? Below is a side-by-side comparison with a few notable rivals:

Analysis: Each of these systems has a different target niche:

• Framework Desktop stands out with its combination of powerful APU + massive RAM in a DIY package. Its strengths are customization, repairability, and balanced workload ability (AI, productivity, light gaming). But it lacks a path for internal GPU expansion, and the cost is high if judged purely on frame-per-dollar or spec-per-dollar against standard desktops. It’s almost in its own category as an “AI mini-workstation” and is ideal for those who want full control over their PC’s assembly and OS in a truly compact form.
• Intel NUC Extreme (especially the latest “Raptor Canyon”) is basically a mini gaming tower – bigger in volume, but with capability rivaling mid-tower desktops. It’s the most upgradeable of the bunch in terms of GPU/CPU (since it uses standard desktop parts on a replaceable card). However, it’s not small by any stretch (a 13L NUC is twice the size of the Framework Desktop), and it’s sold as a relatively expensive barebones kit. It appeals to enthusiasts who want a smaller-than-ATX machine but still want to use a top-tier GPU. With Intel’s exit from making NUCs, the future of these is now with ASUS, who may rebrand them in 2024/2025.
• ASUS ROG NUC 970 is essentially the successor to Intel’s Enthusiast line – and it goes after the “console killer” mini PC idea. Compared to Framework, the ROG NUC is all about gaming performance: it has a discrete RTX 4070 (mobile variant) so it handily outperforms the Framework in games (especially at higher settings or 3D rendering). It’s also user-upgradeable for RAM and storage, and slightly smaller in footprint. But it’s even more expensive (the reviewed config was $1,849 pcgamer.com) and not modular in the repair sense – it’s a sealed prebuilt essentially, with limited front-panel customization. The ROG NUC also draws more power under load (that GPU needs feeding). For someone deciding between these two: choose Framework Desktop for a more general-purpose, tinkerer-friendly system (and if AI/CPU tasks are priority), or ROG NUC for a tiny pure gaming PC with plug-and-play ease.
• HP Z2 Mini represents the professional mini workstation segment. In many ways, it’s the polar opposite of the Framework Desktop’s philosophy: the Z2 is aimed at corporate/enterprise buyers who want reliability, warranties, and don’t mind proprietary components. It’s impressively small (significantly smaller than Framework’s 4.5L) and can fit even a beefy 125W desktop CPU. By offering options for pro-grade GPUs (like Nvidia’s RTX A series), it caters to CAD engineers, architects, etc., who need certified drivers and lots of video outputs for multi-monitor setups. The Z2 is less modular for the end-user (aside from standard RAM/SSD swaps), but HP did make it somewhat accessible internally. It also typically includes things like a 3-year on-site warranty and HP’s security suite, which matter for business use. In raw specs, a Z2 Mini with an i7-12700 and say an RTX A2000 would not match the Framework Desktop in GPU compute or AI (A2000 has 12GB VRAM but is still a modest GPU, and CPU is fewer cores). However, it would excel in any application optimized for Nvidia or requiring certified hardware (and it can drive 8 displays which is crazy for its size) itpro.com itpro.com. Price-wise, the Z2 can actually start cheaper for a base model, but once you configure a high-end version it ends up similarly expensive. The Framework Desktop is more attractive to an individual/power user who might otherwise consider building an ITX workstation, whereas the HP is aimed at IT departments buying 100 of these for an office.

In summary, the Framework Desktop’s unique selling points in this competitive set are its user-centric modularity (expansion cards, tiles), its massive unified memory for AI tasks, and the open DIY approach. It sits in a sweet spot between DIY desktop and mini PC, whereas others skew one way or the other (NUCs and Z2 are mostly ready-made). Its main competitors in practice might be custom Mini-ITX builds – as in, an enthusiast could build a 5L DIY PC with an ITX motherboard and maybe an SFX GPU. But that requires considerable skill and often sacrifices warranty/support, whereas Framework delivers a polished kit. If you value ultimate upgrade flexibility (CPU/GPU), the NUC Extreme or a DIY SFF build wins. If you value size-to-performance ratio for gaming, the ROG NUC leads. If you need a polished tiny workstation for office, HP Z2 or Lenovo’s ThinkStation Tiny might be your pick. The Framework Desktop carves a niche right in between – a tiny PC for hobbyists, developers, and tinkerers who want something powerful yet different from a plain black-box PC.

Pros, Cons, and Unique Selling Points

Finally, let’s distill the pros and cons of the Framework Desktop, and what makes it unique in the market:

Pros:

• Ultra-Compact with High Performance: At just 4.5L, the Framework Desktop is one of the smallest PCs to offer this level of performance. You get true desktop-class processing (16 cores) and very capable 1440p graphics in a form factor you could slip into a backpack theverge.com theverge.com. It’s excellent for those with limited desk space or who want a portable desktop for events.
• “DIY” Made Easy (Great for Beginners): This is arguably the easiest PC-building experience out there tomshardware.com pcworld.com. No complex cable management or part selection; Framework pre-installs the tricky bits, and provides superb documentation. In 10–15 minutes, even a first-timer can assemble it. There’s a sense of accomplishment of building your own PC, without the usual stress.
• Modularity & Customization: The Expansion Card system and front panel tiles let you personalize the machine in ways other SFF PCs can’t. Need front access to an SD card or an extra USB-C? Just slot in a card. Want a purple-and-green checkerboard design on the front? Swap some tiles. This PC can be made truly your own, aesthetically and functionally community.frame.work tomshardware.com. Moreover, its internal design using standard form factors (Mini-ITX, FlexATX) means future whole-board upgrades or case swaps are feasible.
• Massive Unified Memory (for AI and Workstation Tasks): 128GB of ultra-fast unified memory is a dream for AI researchers, data scientists, and certain content creators. This much RAM, with 256GB/s bandwidth, means you can load huge datasets or run large ML models locally community.frame.work. It’s essentially a mini “AI server” for your desk. Traditional SFF PCs either max out at 64GB or use slower memory. For specialized workloads (machine learning, virtualization, etc.), the Framework Desktop offers capabilities usually found only in multi-thousand-dollar workstations or servers.
• No Bloatware, Linux-Friendly: The software experience is clean. If you install Windows, it’s a fresh Microsoft image – no McAfee pop-ups or OEM junk. If you prefer Linux, Framework officially supports it; everything from Wi-Fi to TB4 works in modern distros, and even the expansion cards are OS-agnostic. This is a big plus for developers and privacy-conscious users. Phoronix called its Linux performance “excellent”techmeme.com. The openness extends to repair resources – schematics, part numbers, and how-to guides are provided.
• Quiet and Efficient: Despite packing a 120W APU, the system runs cool and fairly quiet under load pcgamer.com. The cooling solution is well-engineered, and when not doing heavy tasks, the fans can even stop (the PSU fan has 0-RPM mode, and the main fan can ramp down to near-silent). Idle power draw is modest, and Framework’s use of a laptop-style SoC means good efficiency when cruising (it’ll sip power doing light tasks).
• Framework’s Support & Ethos: Buying from Framework means you’re supporting a company championing right-to-repair and sustainability. They design for longevity and user-service, not forced obsolescence. The Marketplace makes it easy to get parts or upgrades. There’s also a growing community of users who share mods, print custom tiles, write how-tos, etc., fostering a positive enthusiast community around the product.

Cons:

• Limited Upgradeability of Core Components: The flip side of the integrated design – you cannot upgrade the CPU, GPU, or RAM except by replacing the entire motherboard theverge.com. Unlike a traditional desktop where you might drop in a new graphics card or add more RAM after a couple of years, here you’re essentially locked to the specs you buy (the only path is if Framework later sells a new motherboard). This could impact the long-term value for some users.
• No Internal PCIe for GPU (Not a True Gaming PC): There is no PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card theverge.com, which firmly caps the gaming potential. It’s fine for moderate gaming, but if down the road you want top-tier graphics, you’ll be looking at external solutions or a different PC. Even now, similarly priced mini-PCs or small towers can beat it in gaming performance with discrete GPUs theverge.com. So gamers who want max frames/$ will find the Desktop lacking.
• High Cost for Specs: The Framework Desktop carries a premium price. Part of it is the expensive Strix Halo APU and the included PSU/case, but part is also the “early adopter tax” of a niche startup product. For $1,500–$2,000 one could assemble a larger ITX system with, say, a Ryzen 16-core CPU and a decent GPU which would outperform the Framework in many tasks (especially gaming/rendering) pcgamer.com. Prebuilt alternatives like Intel’s NUC kits or boutique SFF PCs might offer better raw performance per dollar. Essentially, you’re paying extra for the small size and Framework’s design – which is worth it for some, but not for bargain hunters.
• Extras Not Included: Small nitpicks but worth noting: The power cable for the PSU is not included in the box (Framework assumes you have one or lets you add for extra) tomshardware.com tomshardware.com. Also, as mentioned, the front tile packs cost extra, which feels stingy when even basic blank tiles aren’t in the base package tomshardware.com. These add small additional costs (and minor inconvenience) to the initial setup.
• Uncertain Longevity of Platform: Being the first of its kind, the Framework Desktop is a bit of an experiment. Will Framework (and AMD) continue releasing compatible mainboards so you can upgrade in the future? Will Strix Halo remain supported with driver optimizations? There’s some risk – e.g., if AMD doesn’t make another Halo APU, the whole concept might stagnate. PC Gamer expressed concern that the platform could be a “dead-end” if no follow-up chips come pcgamer.com. Early adopters have to trust that Framework will find a path forward, but it’s not guaranteed like, say, buying a standard ATX motherboard that supports next-gen CPUs.
• Niche Use Case: The Framework Desktop is a bit of a niche: if you don’t specifically need the combo of small size + lots of CPU cores/memory, you might be better served by other systems. A comment on Hacker News described it as “not really meant to be used as a normal computer” but rather for specialized scenarios reddit.com. That’s debatable, but it’s true that for simple web browsing, office work, or even light content creation, there are cheaper mini-PCs or laptops. Conversely, for hardcore gaming or heavy 3D rendering, a bigger PC with discrete GPU makes more sense. The Framework Desktop shines brightest for folks squarely in the middle – e.g., developers, AI tinkerers, tech enthusiasts – but could be an odd fit for others.

Unique Selling Points:

Despite the cons, the Framework Desktop’s USPs (Unique Selling Points) make it a one-of-a-kind option in 2025:

• It’s the only SFF PC with full front modularity and aesthetic customization (tiles system). No one else offers anything like that level of personalization on a mini PC.
• It’s one of the first desktops to capitalize on a new class of “AI-optimized” processors (with a beefy NPU onboard). In an era where AI workloads are becoming common, it’s ahead of the curve in making a PC ready for that without needing a specialized GPU community.frame.work.
• Framework’s brand ethos – being able to order a single replacement screw or a new mainboard from the manufacturer is a huge plus for longevity. The company actively engages with its community for feedback and improvements (e.g., BIOS updates, expansion card ideas). That kind of responsive support is rare in the PC industry, especially for desktops.
• Finally, it manages to “straddle the line” between a prebuilt and a DIY system elegantly theverge.com. You get the fun of building and upgrading, but none of the OEM junk or proprietary lock-in, and also none of the frustration of sourcing every part. For a tech-savvy consumer who values both convenience and control, the Framework Desktop is very appealing – it’s a product that says: you own this PC, you can modify it, and we’ll help you do it.

Conclusion

The Framework Desktop represents a bold new direction, not just for Framework, but for the concept of desktop PCs. It asks the question: Can a desktop be both ultra-compact and truly yours? In many ways, it succeeds – delivering a power-dense 4.5L machine that packs more RAM and CPU cores than most huge towers, and inviting users to engage in the build and customization process in a fun, approachable way. It’s not without compromises: you sacrifice some traditional modularity and pay a premium for the privilege. As one review aptly put it, “you can get more for less elsewhere, and the draw of its diminutive size has to be worth the price premium” pcgamer.com pcgamer.com. For the target audience, though, it absolutely will be worth it.

In the current landscape (as of August 2025), the Framework Desktop stands out as an innovator’s machine – perfect for early adopters, developers, and those who admire the intersection of engineering and design. It’s carving a niche that merges the DIY spirit of PC building with the sleek integration of modern electronics. And importantly, it carries forward the torch of repairable, sustainable hardware into the desktop arena, proving that even a tiny PC can be built with respect for the consumer’s right to upgrade and tinker.

Whether the Framework Desktop becomes a mainstream success or remains a cult favorite, it has undeniably expanded the conversation about what a desktop PC can be. It challenges bigger manufacturers to consider flexibility and user empowerment, not just raw specs. And for consumers, it offers a refreshing alternative in a world of sealed black boxes. In short, the Framework Desktop is small in size, big in ambition – a mini-ITX modular workstation that might just hint at the future of compact computing.

견고함 (The above is the comprehensive comparison and analysis up to August 2025, citing the latest available information and reviews.)

Sources:

• Framework Official Blog – “Introducing the Framework Desktop” (Feb 2025) community.frame.work community.frame.work
• The Verge – Review: “The Framework Desktop made me fall for small form factor PCs” (Aug 7, 2025) theverge.com theverge.com
• Tom’s Hardware – “Framework Desktop review: AMD’s Strix Halo in a petite, powerful, pricey PC” (Aug 7, 2025) tomshardware.com tomshardware.com
• PC Gamer – “Framework Desktop PC review – Not a gaming rig, but a hell of an AI PC.” (Aug 7, 2025) pcgamer.com pcgamer.com
• Engadget – “Framework Desktop (2025) Review: Powerful, but perhaps not for everyone” (Daniel Cooper, Aug 2025) engadget.com
• PCWorld – “Framework Desktop review: A powerful AI PC, made with love” (Mark Hachman, Aug 7, 2025) pcworld.com pcworld.com
• Ars Technica – “Framework’s first desktop is a strange—but unique—mini ITX gaming PC” (Andrew Cunningham, Aug 2025) arstechnica.com
• PCMag – “Framework Desktop – 4.0 Excellent” (Matthew Buzzi, 2025)techmeme.com
• Phoronix – “Framework Desktop With AMD Ryzen AI Max Offers Excellent, Linux-Friendly Performance” (Michael Larabel, Aug 2025)techmeme.com
• PC Gamer – “ASUS ROG NUC 970 review” (Al Bickham, July 5, 2024) pcgamer.com pcgamer.com
• IT Pro – “HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation review” (Oct 2022) itpro.com itpro.com
• Digital Engineering 24/7 – “Small But Powerful: HP Z2 Mini G9” (Nov 2022) digitalengineering247.com
• Framework Community Forum discussions and user feedback community.frame.work community.frame.work.