Comparison · Strix Halo
Same AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 silicon, same ~256 GB/s ceiling, same 128GB memory cap. One is a kit you assemble and can repair. One is a sealed mini PC that costs more for the privilege of being finished.
| Framework Desktop | GMKtec EVO-X2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Street USD (Aug 2026) | $1,269–$3,449 | $3,500–$3,650 (128GB) |
| Chip | Ryzen AI Max+ 395 | Ryzen AI Max+ 395 |
| Memory | up to 128GB unified | 128GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Bandwidth | ~256 GB/s | ~256 GB/s |
| What it runs | 24B–32B comfortable, 70B-class possible | Same model tiers |
| Form factor | DIY kit, repairable | Sealed 193mm mini, assembled |
| Networking | Board-dependent | 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, dual USB4 |
| Catch | You assemble it; not CUDA | Sealed; fans vs 120W chip; not CUDA |
You want the cheaper entry into this exact silicon, you do not mind building it, and you want a machine you can open and repair in five years instead of replacing.
You want the same chip already built into a real Windows PC today, you do not want to assemble anything, and the ~$300–400 premium over a comparable Framework config is worth not touching a screwdriver. Get the 128GB SKU — the $2,199 listing is the 64GB config.
It is the same silicon and the same bandwidth wall either way. This is not a performance decision — it is whether you want to build the box and repair it later, or pay a premium to skip that step. Everything else is chassis and warranty.