Cooling Upgrades for the Framework Desktop
Noctua, known for its cooling technology, has shared some insights about upgrading the cooling system on the Framework Desktop. If you want your system to run cooler or quieter, here are some useful tips.
Firstly, Noctua observed that adding an 80 mm exhaust fan to the front can lower temperatures. However, the noise from this fan might outweigh the cooling benefits. Instead of the default fan, using their newer NF-A12x25 G2 fan can make the system quieter. But keep in mind, this fan operates at a lower RPM (1,800) than the original (2,400), making it less effective under heavy loads.
Noctua concluded in a blog post, “Not all cooling tweaks are effective.” They noted that if you own a 3D printer, swapping the original side panel and fan duct for specially designed ones could significantly reduce noise.
While Noctua isn’t mass-producing these upgrades, you can download the designs for the side panel and fan duct for free. Framework also endorsed these designs on social media.
Noctua played a key role in creating the stock cooling system. Their original design includes a fan that helps keep temperatures 7° Celsius lower compared to setups without it. The new printable duct and panel build on that foundation.
The Framework Desktop itself is a robust machine, featuring up to 16-core Ryzen CPUs and Radeon integrated graphics. It offers between 32GB and 128GB of RAM, making it a solid choice for gamers and professionals, especially those engaging in AI or demanding workloads. Currently, it’s available for preorder starting at $1,099, with delivery expected in late 2025.
Upgrading your cooling can definitely impact performance, but not every mod will give you the results you’re looking for. As technology continues to evolve, being mindful of both noise level and temperature management will keep your setup running smoothly.
