Framework has unveiled its latest generation of desktop and laptop solutions, now featuring the powerful AMD Ryzen AI 300 and Ryzen AI MAX series processors.
Introducing Framework’s High-Performance 4.5L Desktop and Upgraded Laptops
The flagship offering from Framework’s second-generation lineup is undoubtedly the Framework Desktop. This innovative desktop solution is equipped with AMD’s upcoming Ryzen AI MAX APUs, including the top-tier Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 model, boasting up to 16 cores utilizing the advanced Zen 5 architecture. Additionally, it features the Radeon 8060S integrated graphics chip, which includes 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, and supports a generous 128 GB of RAM.
The desktop is housed in a compact 4.5-liter chassis featuring a conventional box design. Within this case is a Mini-ITX motherboard that comes with a pre-installed heatsink, optimized with multiple fins and heat pipes that ensure effective cooling for the APU and RAM. For enhanced airflow, users can configure the system with three 120mm fans, including Noctua and Cooler Master models.
This advanced desktop setup operates on standard ATX power and utilizes an 8-pin plus 24-pin connector configuration. On the connectivity front, the system boasts two M.2 SSD slots, a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot, and three fan headers. It also comes equipped with dual USB Type-A ports, two USB4 Type-C ports, HDMI, dual DisplayPort outputs, 5G Ethernet LAN, a 3.5mm audio jack, and has integrated Wi-Fi 7 support for solid wireless connectivity. Powering the system is a semi-custom Flex ATX designed PSU by FSP.
During the launch event, Framework showcased impressive gaming performance metrics using the Framework Desktop, with AMD’s Frank Azor providing insights. Testing was conducted on various titles at 1080P High settings, revealing substantial improvements both in native performance and with the introduction of FSR3 technology, yielding frame rates exceeding 100 FPS on many games. This excellent performance persists even at 1440P resolutions, with the Radeon 8060S graphic solution ensuring smooth gameplay.
Framework presented an intriguing comparison of its latest Desktop as a robust AI processing solution, contrasting it against the $4, 800 Mac Studio with 128 GB, and the substantially pricier NVIDIA DIGITS 128 GB unit. In stark comparison, the Framework Desktop will retail at just $1, 999 for a similar 128 GB configuration, providing exceptional value.
To further enhance its capabilities, Framework demonstrated a network of four Desktops interconnected via 5G Ethernet and USB4, showcasing dramatic gains in AI performance.
The Framework Desktop technology will be offered as both a mainboard and a complete DIY kit. The mainboard option allows users to buy the motherboard alongside the AMD Ryzen AI MAX+ APU, or they can construct their system from scratch by selecting their storage, cooling, and operating system. Notably, the Setup is remarkably user-friendly—claimed to be assembled in just five minutes with only a single screwdriver included in the packaging. Furthermore, the front panel of the chassis can be fully customized, featuring a tile design that invites creative expression akin to building with LEGOs.
Pre-orders for the Framework Desktop are available as of today, with shipments scheduled to commence in Q3. Three configurations are currently offered: the entry-level Ryzen AI MAX 385 with 32 GB of RAM priced at $1, 099, the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 with 64 GB of RAM available for $1, 599, and a high-end $1, 999 option.
Framework’s Laptop 12 & 13: Enhanced Portability and Performance
On the mobile side, Framework is introducing two new models: the Laptop 12 and Laptop 13. The Laptop 12 features an updated 12.2-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of up to 1920×1200 and 400 nits brightness. It is powered by Intel’s 13th Gen Core i5 and Core i3 CPUs, supports up to 48 GB of DDR5-5200 memory, offers 2 TB of NVMe storage, and features Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Pre-orders for this model will begin in April, with initial shipments anticipated in mid-2025.
Conversely, the Laptop 13 offers AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 APUs coupled with a redesigned motherboard featuring enhanced cooling solutions like an active fan and a large heatpipe system. Thermal management has also been improved with Honeywell’s PTM7958 phase-change thermal interface material.
The Laptop 13 supports up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 memory and features up to 8 TB of PCIe Gen4 SSD storage, as well as Wi-Fi 7 connectivity (AMD RZ717) and USB4 IO for high-speed data transfer.
The pricing strategy for the Laptop 13 starts at $899 for the DIY edition and $1, 099 for a pre-built variant. Additionally, the mainboard is also available separately for $449. The new Laptop 13 is available for pre-order now.
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