Framework Desktop: A Practical Look At Its Gaming Capabilities

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Post on Feb 28, 2025

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Framework Laptop's Desktop: Can It Really Game? A Practical Look at its Performance

The modular Framework Laptop has garnered significant attention for its repairability and upgradability. But what about its less-discussed sibling, the Framework Desktop? Can this customizable powerhouse actually hold its own in the gaming world? We put it to the test, examining its capabilities and limitations for gamers. Forget the hype; let's dive into a practical assessment of the Framework Desktop's gaming performance.

The Framework Desktop: A Quick Overview

Before we jump into the gaming benchmarks, let's briefly recap the Framework Desktop's key features relevant to gaming. This isn't your typical pre-built gaming rig. Instead, it offers a highly customizable platform, allowing users to select their preferred CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. This flexibility is a major selling point, allowing users to tailor their system to their specific needs and budget. However, this flexibility also means performance can vary wildly depending on the components chosen.

Gaming Performance: Expectations vs. Reality

The Framework Desktop's gaming capabilities depend entirely on the chosen components. Opting for a high-end GPU like an NVIDIA RTX 4070 or AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT will deliver a vastly different gaming experience than a more budget-friendly option. Our test system, equipped with an Intel Core i7-13700K processor and an NVIDIA RTX 3070, provided a solid foundation for 1080p and 1440p gaming.

Benchmark Results: Key Games Tested

We ran several popular titles to assess the Framework Desktop's performance. Here's a summary of our findings at 1080p and 1440p with various settings:

• Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p High): Achieved a consistent 60fps, with occasional dips below in heavily populated areas.
• Cyberpunk 2077 (1440p High): Averaged 45-50fps, requiring some graphical settings adjustments for smoother gameplay.
• Red Dead Redemption 2 (1080p High): Maintained a smooth 60fps with minimal drops.
• Red Dead Redemption 2 (1440p High): Delivered around 40-45fps, playable but not ideal for high refresh rate monitors.
• Forza Horizon 5 (1080p Ultra): Consistently above 60fps, showcasing excellent performance.
• Forza Horizon 5 (1440p Ultra): Maintained a mostly smooth 60fps with occasional dips.

Limitations and Considerations

While the Framework Desktop can certainly handle modern games, it's important to be aware of its limitations:

• Case Size: The smaller form factor means less internal space for advanced cooling solutions, potentially limiting overclocking potential and high-end component choices.
• Price: Building a high-performing gaming PC with Framework components can be more expensive than buying a pre-built gaming PC with similar specs. The benefit lies in the long-term upgradability.
• Component Selection: Choosing the right components is crucial. Careful consideration of CPU, GPU, and RAM is essential for achieving the desired gaming performance.

Conclusion: A Practical and Sustainable Gaming Option

The Framework Desktop isn't a direct competitor to high-end, pre-built gaming PCs designed solely for maximum performance. However, it offers a compelling alternative for gamers who prioritize repairability, upgradability, and sustainability. Its modular design allows for future upgrades, making it a potentially more cost-effective long-term investment. While not the absolute fastest gaming PC on the market, the Framework Desktop delivers solid gaming performance at 1080p and 1440p with the right component choices, making it a viable option for environmentally conscious gamers who value flexibility and longevity. The key is choosing the right components to meet your gaming needs and budget.