A desktop computer that operates in total silence is already enough to turn heads, but the Monochrome custom build takes things even further with its striking visual identity. Conceived and crafted by modder TheJiral, this 3D printed fanless PC is a showcase of both minimalist design and clever engineering. Rather than relying on a jumble of fans or flashy lighting, Monochrome achieves a serene, noise-free experience, all housed within a dramatic black-and-white enclosure.
The heart of Monochrome is a ready-made Framework mainboard, a part more often found inside a modular laptop than a DIY desktop. This clever choice gives the project a future-proof edge; f something fails or an upgrade beckons, you just swap the board, no fussing with dozens of tiny connections. It’s an unusual move that makes perfect sense for anyone who dreams of repairable, modular hardware in a world where most gadgets feel disposable.
Designer: TheJiral
Every inch of Monochrome’s chassis is 3D printed, with panels alternating between deep black and crisp white. The result is a desktop that looks more like a design object than a typical shoebox PC. The plastic’s texture and the sharp contrast between colors make it a joy to look at and touch, while the compact 7.5-liter footprint means it fits easily on any desk. Cable management, I/O cutouts, and even the mounts for the Framework board all get the same careful attention, keeping the aesthetic clean and purposeful.
Of course, the real magic of Monochrome is what you don’t hear. By ditching fans altogether, the project leans heavily on passive cooling, a feat that’s far trickier than it looks. The designer engineered custom heatsinks and heat spreaders, using copper shims and thermal pads to draw heat away from the CPU and into the case itself. Airflow channels are built into the 3D printed structure, guiding heat upward and out without the need for moving parts. TheJiral’s careful benchmarking and iterative tweaks keep temperatures in check, even during demanding sessions.
Running a fanless PC in such a tiny enclosure comes with real thermal challenges. Unlike a traditional tower where air circulates freely, every degree of heat in Monochrome’s closed shell must be managed with precision. The builder’s logs show a process of constant testing and adjustment, with temperature readings and small changes to ensure everything stays within safe limits. It’s a balancing act that turns the case itself into an active participant in cooling, rather than just a container for parts.
Monochrome is proof that you don’t have to choose between style, silence, and sustainability. It’s a computer that’s equal parts technical experiment and art piece, built for people who want their machines to last and who appreciate the quiet beauty of thoughtful design.
