Framework Desktop Prices Rise by Up to $460 Due to RAM Shortage

Key Takeaways

1. Framework has adjusted its desktop model prices for the first time, following several increases in laptop prices.
2. The price hikes are intended to counterbalance rising production costs, with lower-end models seeing only a $40 increase.
3. The high-end model’s price increased by $460 due to the cost of components, now priced at $2,459.
4. The Framework Desktop remains competitive against similar mini-PCs, despite higher prices, particularly for developers.
5. The base model is attractive for gamers, offering good value compared to custom builds, but individual components might provide better deals.

After increasing laptop prices several times recently, Framework has now adjusted the prices for its desktop models for the very first time. The Framework Desktop doesn’t have user-upgradeable RAM like its laptop versions, which is why the company waited before making any price changes.

Price Adjustments Explained

In a recent blog post, Framework stated that the price hikes are only meant to balance out the rising costs of production. Interestingly, the lower-end models with 32 GB or 64 GB of RAM experienced just a small increase of $40. The variant equipped with a Ryzen AI Max 385 and 32 GB of RAM now sells for $1,139, while the upgraded model that includes a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and 64 GB of RAM is now priced at $1,639 after the change.

High-End Model’s Price Surge

The top-end model took a significant blow from the price increase because it needs eight 128-Gbit chips, which have seen a sharp rise in cost. The 128 GB configuration is now offered at $2,459, reflecting a $460 increase. While this higher price might deter some AI developers, the Framework Desktop still stands strong against other mini-PCs with similar specifications, like the GMKtec Evo-X2, which also has the same processor and 128 GB of RAM (around $2,300 on Amazon).

Gaming Performance and Value

The base model is particularly appealing to gamers. According to Framework, it offers better value compared to a custom-built desktop with similar capabilities. However, shoppers might find better deals by purchasing individual components in the current market. For example, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, which outperforms the AMD Radeon 8050S, is available for about $300 on Amazon.

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