14 DAY TRIAL // Everex is mostly known for its inexpensive computing systems it designs and distributes. Immediately after the stealthy launch of its CloudBook ultra-mobile computer, the company announced yet another miniature creation, the Everex gPC Mini.
The miniature computer was touted last month, but it has just got official. The Everex Mini is a Mac Mini-like desktop computer powered by the company's Linux-based operating system, the gOS 2.0. It comes loaded with a 1.83GHz T2130 processor, 120GB hard drive, 512MB DDR2 RAM, a DVD writer and Intel GMA950 integrated graphics. The small-form factor computer is not poor when it comes to connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, DVI / S-Video outputs, FireWire, four USB 2.0 ports, as well as a 4-in-1 universal SD card reader and audio input/output analog connectors.
Mac Mini clones seem to be very popular. Asustek has also tried to release its own version of Mini, with their Nova P22. However, Everex played the honesty card and admitted having inspired their work from the Mac and added the "Mini" as part of the system's name. This time, it's a Linux-based version of the Mac Mini, which seems to be way better than Asustek's Nova P22, yet unable to raise up to the original Mini.
Everex's small-form factor computer is packed with features that the Nova P22 missed out: the fire wire port and 4-1 media card reader. It may seem ridiculous, but keep in mind that the system is tailored for multimedia use. The company carefully picked the operating system distribution: gOS is just another derivative of the extremely user-friendly Ubuntu branch.
Curiously enough, Everex encourages its customers to get involved in the open-source community, yet they recommend Windows Vista Home Premium as the best pick for their $499 miniature PC. Everex mini will be available from Newegg.com for $499 starting on March 1st. However, the difference between the Mac Mini and its clone is just $100, so chances are that the clone won't overpace its master.