Framework has started taking preorders for a new high-end configuration of its compact Framework Desktop, this time pairing AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495 with a massive 192GB of memory. The system is clearly aimed at users who need serious local computing power in a relatively small desktop footprint, particularly for demanding workloads involving AI, development, content creation and other memory-intensive tasks. However, the price reflects just how specialised this configuration is, especially once storage and extended warranty options are added.
Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495 At The Core
The new Framework Desktop is powered by AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495, part of the company's Gorgon Halo family of APUs. It features 16 CPU cores and 32 threads, with a base clock of 3.1GHz and a boost clock of up to 5.2GHz. This gives the machine a considerable amount of multi-threaded processing capability without requiring a traditional full-sized desktop platform.
Graphics are handled by the integrated Radeon 8065S, which features 40 compute units based on AMD's RDNA 3.5 architecture. That makes the system considerably more capable than a typical desktop relying on conventional integrated graphics. Combined with the large memory pool, the configuration is particularly interesting for workloads that can take advantage of shared high-capacity memory between CPU and GPU resources.
A Massive 192GB Memory Configuration
The headline feature is undoubtedly the 192GB memory capacity. That amount of RAM is well beyond what most mainstream desktops require and places this Framework model firmly into workstation territory. It could be particularly useful for users working with large AI models, virtual machines, professional content production, software development environments and other applications where memory capacity can become a major bottleneck.
Framework's approach also makes the system unusual because all of that capability is being delivered in a relatively compact desktop design. Rather than building a large workstation around separate high-end components, the Ryzen AI Max+ platform combines much of the processing and graphics capability into a tightly integrated package. This helps keep the overall system considerably smaller while still providing substantial computing resources.
Noctua Cooling Comes Preinstalled
To manage the heat generated by the hardware, Framework is equipping this special configuration with a Noctua NF-A12x25 HS-PWM cooling fan. The 120mm fan is designed with compact and small-form-factor systems in mind, where airflow and noise levels can become particularly important. Depending on the operating mode, its fan speed ranges between approximately 1,700 RPM and 2,000 RPM.
The lower-speed operation is intended to provide quieter cooling when the system is not under maximum load. Noctua has built a strong reputation in the PC hardware market for producing cooling solutions that balance airflow performance with relatively low noise levels. Its inclusion should therefore be a welcome addition given the amount of processing power packed inside the Framework Desktop.
Plenty Of Connectivity And Expansion
Despite its compact dimensions, the Framework Desktop still provides a reasonably comprehensive selection of ports and expansion options. Internally, users get two M.2 SSD slots together with a PCIe x4 expansion slot, allowing some flexibility when configuring storage or adding compatible hardware. Framework has also retained its modular approach through two front Expansion Card slots.
Connectivity includes two USB4 ports, two USB-A ports, two DisplayPort 2.1 outputs and an HDMI 2.1 connection. There is also a standard 3.5mm audio jack, 5Gbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7 support. This gives the system enough connectivity for high-resolution displays, fast networking and modern external peripherals without requiring extensive adapters.
Starting Price Of US$6,799
The 192GB Framework Desktop starts at US$6,799, or approximately RM27,790. However, that starting price does not include storage, meaning buyers will need to either provide their own SSD or purchase one of Framework's optional pre-installed drives. Given the already premium base price, the final cost can increase significantly depending on how the system is configured.
Framework's available SSD options are all PCIe 4.0 drives from Sandisk. Pricing begins at US$135, around RM551, for a 500GB model and goes all the way up to US$2,269, approximately RM9,274, for the highest-capacity option available. Buyers therefore have considerable flexibility, although higher-end storage configurations can add a substantial amount to the overall price.
Warranty Can Also Be Extended
A one-year warranty is included with the system as standard. Framework also offers the option of extending coverage to three years for an additional US$1,019, equivalent to approximately RM4,165. For a machine priced at this level, some professional buyers may see the extended coverage as worthwhile, particularly if the desktop is intended for critical workloads.
Adding high-capacity storage and the longer warranty could push the total cost considerably beyond the US$6,799 starting point. As a result, this particular Framework Desktop is unlikely to appeal to typical home PC users. It is positioned much more towards professionals and specialised users who specifically need the combination of extremely large memory capacity, compact design and powerful integrated processing.
Still No Official Framework Shipping To Malaysia
Unfortunately, Framework does not currently ship its products directly to Malaysia. Malaysian buyers interested in the new 192GB configuration would therefore need to purchase it in one of the supported countries or rely on third-party importers and the grey market. This can make the already expensive desktop even more costly once international shipping, taxes and potential warranty complications are taken into account.
The lack of official local availability also means after-sales support may be less straightforward for Malaysian buyers. Anyone considering importing the system should therefore factor in not only the purchase price, but also possible shipping costs and the practicality of handling warranty claims from Malaysia. For such an expensive configuration, those additional considerations could be significant.
Final Thoughts
The new 192GB Framework Desktop is an impressive demonstration of how much computing power can now be packed into a relatively compact machine. With the Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495, 16 CPU cores, Radeon 8065S graphics and an enormous memory pool, it offers workstation-class specifications without requiring a traditional large desktop tower. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 7, 5Gbps networking, USB4 and modern display connectivity also makes it a very capable platform from a technical perspective.
Its biggest limitation is clearly the price, especially considering that the US$6,799 starting figure does not include storage. For Malaysian buyers, the lack of official shipping makes ownership even more complicated and potentially more expensive. Nevertheless, for professionals who genuinely need 192GB of memory and strong CPU and GPU performance in a compact system, this is one of the more unusual and technically interesting desktop configurations currently available.
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