In 3DMark Metal Nomad, a preferred graphics benchmark, the Framework Desktop carried out 13 p.c quicker than on the ROG Circulate Z13. That’s with each methods set on the Finest Efficiency mode, too. It’s nonetheless 32 p.c behind the most recent technology of desktop GPUs, such because the RTX 5060, however that’s to be anticipated. The closest comparable discrete GPU is the Laptop computer RTX 4060. Whereas that’s not thrilling for PC avid gamers, bear in mind: these are built-in graphics. The one built-in graphics efficiency that comes shut is on Apple’s aspect with the M4 chips.
I attempted out some fashionable video games, reminiscent of Cyberpunk 2077 and Marvel Rivals, and was totally impressed by how properly they carried out. I used to be shocked to seek out that I may play Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p and Extremely settings with none upscaling but nonetheless obtain a mean of 84 frames per second. You possibly can simply enterprise into larger resolutions and even ray tracing when you use AMD’s picture upscaling settings and even body technology. Lighter video games like Marvel Rivals play with out lacking a beat.
The RAM is just not detachable as a result of nature of the chip, although it does are available large-capacity choices. The bottom mannequin has 32 GB, whereas my configuration got here with 64 GB. There’s a 128 GB possibility, which is vital for anybody trying to work with native massive language fashions or different AI initiatives. The neural processing unit inside is able to over 50 TOPS, and Framework claims it will possibly run massive language AI fashions like Llama 3 70B regionally in actual time, particularly on the 128-GB mannequin that offers the GPU 96 GB of VRAM to work with.
A Area of interest of a Area of interest
{Photograph}: Luke Larsen
Framework laptops had been already good, however the Framework Desktop is maybe probably the most area of interest product the corporate has launched to this point. The advantages of selecting the Framework Desktop over another desktop on the market have much less to do with what makes the Framework ethos so distinctive. There are even smaller choices, such because the Corsair AI Workstation 300, which is barely taller however not as deep. They’re equally priced, although Corsair is promoting solely the higher-end possibility with 128 GB of RAM.
Then again, the Framework Desktop is an superior center floor between the compact nature of a mini-PC and the efficiency and upgradability of a real small-form-factor PC. I don’t like you can’t improve the RAM, and I want the aspect panels had been simpler to put in. I do have considerations in regards to the CPU inside, too. Whereas it performs nice, lots depends upon AMD persevering with to help this considerably specialised element. Framework hasn’t let me down to date, however its earlier computer systems have used extra customary components. However by now, the corporate has earned some belief from me.
For AI lovers hoping to run native LLMs, the Framework Desktop is a shoo-in, particularly with all of the obtainable reminiscence. Nevertheless it’s additionally a good possibility for individuals who need a compact PC that does not utterly forfeit efficiency or upgradability.
