For you crafty types out there that work with woods and metals, you may find that those skills could come in handy if you want to build a Steampunk computer.

Know not what Steampunk is?

Steampunk is a style. It refers to a time in the world when steam power was primarily used (think Victorian era 19th century), and no, your computer doesn’t have to run on steam, it just has to look like something from that era.

The best example I’ve ever seen of a Steampunk’d computer box is Dave Veloz’s Mac Mini Mod, Monitor and Keyboard. You would never guess in a million years that the setup is a Mac.. or even a computer for that matter. It is, said honestly, awesome.

If you want to build a Steampunk-style box for yourself, you don’t have to go as crazy as the example above. You could go with something as simple as a humidor (cigar box) like this.

Recommendations for modders those who want to give this a go

Motherboard

Smaller is obviously better and that starts with the motherboard. A tiny mobo form factor is Mini-ITX; it only measures 17 x 17cm (6.7 x 6.7 inches).

The reason you want small is so whatever box you house the computer in looks as "uncomputery" as possible. Mini-ITX also comes available in "fan-less" setups so it can run completely silent.

If you want to go super itty-bitty, there’s Nano-ITX. Those mobo’s only measure in as 120mm x 120mm (4.7 x 4.7 inch). Newegg has one. Just one. And it’s not cheap. But if space is the primary concern, well.. that’s about as itty-bitty as you can get away with.

Mouse

You’ll want a mouse that can be painted easily and made to appear vintage. Mice that work well in the style of Steampunk setup are typically less "curvy" than others.

Microsoft’s newest mice, somewhat "swoop" shaped, are actually a good fit because of the style.

Keyboard

You want the most basic keyboard you can find, and if possible one with absolutely no custom assignable buttons. An IBM Model M is a good start.

Monitor

Start with an old crappy LCD. Odds are the first time you try to mod an LCD frame, you may destroy it. They’re rough to work on concerning modding (which is why few attempt it).

Final notes

If you were looking for that killer mod you wanted to try, don’t bother with LEDs, custom fans and all that other crapola. Steampunk style is always better – and looks classy as heck if done right.