Barebones PCs are computers that takes a good chunk of the build process out. The box comes delivered completely assembled but you must put in your own supported processor, RAM, hard drive and possibly video card (some have built-in video on-board.)
If you’re looking for a box that has absolutely no “influence” from Microsoft, Apple or large OEMs like Dell, HP or Gateway, building yourself or going barebones is the way to go.
Three manufacturers that provide good barebones PCs are MSI, ASUS and Shuttle.
Here’s a few offerings for you to check out (and remember, the prices don’t include processors, RAM, hard drive, etc. – you have to add those in.)
- MSI MBOX K9N6SGM-V
Price: $104 - ASUS P1-AH2
Price: $174.99 - Shuttle SN68SG2
Price: $159.99
All three of these Barebones PCs are for AMD processors and not Intel. Yes you can go Intel if you wish, but if you go AMD you will usually save a few bucks.
Make sure to read the reviews for each so you can get a good idea of whether Barebones is right for you.
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