OpenMac ($399) - Leopard-Compatible Computer Built from Standard PC Parts

Psystar, a Miami-based consulting company, is showing off a $399 computer called "OpenMac." They say it is able to run Leopard like any real Mac would, only it is built from standard PC-parts and goes for a mere $399. Sounds quite attractive for folks looking to move to the Mac but can't afford the purchase of a decent system from Apple.

Take a look at the specs (via MacRumors):

- 2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- 2GB of DDR2 667 memory
- Integrated Intel GMA 950 Graphics
- 20x DVD+/-R Drive
- 4 USB Ports
- 250GB 7200RPM Drive

The company states: "The Psystar OpenMac works just like an Apple Macintosh. Why spend $1999 to get the least expensive Apple computer with a decent video card when you can pay less than a fourth of that for an equivalent sleek and small form-factor desktop with the same hardware. Sometimes reinventing the wheel is a good thing. The OpenMac can work for new Mac users and Mac geniuses, alike."

Psystar also claims that many of the components can be upgraded. The graphics card, for instance, can be taken to 512MB for $155 more, with a GeForce 8600GT. The system is also ready to run "out of the box" if you buy the Leopard-included version. "If you buy Leopard with your OpenMac we'll install it for free," says Psystar.

"When comparing base configurations, the Mac Mini costs 150% of the price of the OpenMac while offering poorer performance, smaller storage space, and RAM. Not only that but the Mac Mini doesn't have the option for an nVidia GeForce 8600 video card like the OpenMac does so playing games on it is a lost cause," Psystar says.

True. The OpenMac does however take up 150% (figurative) more space than the Mac Mini. Some people actually buy it for the looks and its small size. Has that ever occurred to Psystar? Nevertheless, if performance is your top priority and you definitely want Leopard ASAP, we can't not admit that OpenMac sounds more than attractive.

Psystar Corporation is a consulting company based in Miami, Florida. Specializing in Information Technology and Telecommunications, Psystar Corporation provides solutions for businesses of any size on any scale. The use of Apple's Mac OS X Leopard on non-Apple-branded hardware is a violation of the company's End User License Agreement (EULA), which is prohibited.