How to Make the Framework Desktop Run Even Quieter The Framework Desktop is a compact, small form factor PC notable for being the first desktop PC to feature the AMD Ryzen AI Max APU, a processor formerly exclusive to laptops. This chip offers: Exceptional speed and integrated graphics Performance suitable for gaming and complex AI/deep learning workloads Support for a large memory pool (up to 96GB) for AI tasks Collaboration with Noctua for Noise Reduction Noctua partnered with Framework to enhance the desktop's cooling with: The NF-A12x25 fan and a custom fan duct, reducing noise while maintaining safe temperatures (details here). They explored further improvements by integrating Noctua's signature fan grill design, originally used on the Seasonic Prime TX-1600 Noctua Edition power supply, with considerations for: Customer safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) regulations Ventilation openings smaller than 5mm in diameter Noctua designed an updated fan grille with more struts and smaller openings to comply with these standards, paired with a funnel-shaped custom fan duct maximizing airflow via the side panel. Benefits of Custom Parts Noise reduction of approximately 7 dB(A) at 50% fan speed and up to 5 dB(A) at higher fan speeds compared to stock configuration at the same APU temperature Improved sound profile and potential temperature reductions Both the custom side panel and fan duct CAD files are publicly available for 3D printing: Custom side panel with Noctua-style fan grill Custom fan duct Thanks to recent advances in 3D printing, users can achieve a professional-looking upgrade at home. Additional Experiments and Recommendations Noctua tested: Replacing the NF-A12x25 with the NF-A12x25 G2 variant Adding an NF-A8 PWM 8cm exhaust fan at the front Findings: The added 8cm exhaust fan slightly lowered temperatures but increased noise, making it inefficient in terms of noise-to-performance ratio. The NF-A12x25 G2 fan reduces noise by 1 to 1.5 dB(A) but has a max speed of 1800 RPM (vs. 2400 RPM for the default NF-A12x25), meaning reduced performance headroom in high-temperature scenarios. Recommended to upgrade to G2 only if noise reduction is prioritized over max cooling performance. Summary Not all cooling tweaks improve the Framework Desktop meaningfully. The most effective modification for quieter operation is swapping the stock side panel and fan duct with Noctua’s custom 3D-printable designs. These modifications yield substantial noise reduction while maintaining cooling performance. Related Products Seasonic Prime TX-1600 Noctua Edition NF-A12x25 G2 PWM NF-A12x25 PWM NF-A8 PWM