Compact/Mini computers?

[Guaranos]

As a PC tech I could make all sorts of Mac jokes...but the truth is I like macs just fine.  The down side to the mac mini is cost.  for the same $800 I could build a better PC for mame.(for $800 I could build a darn nice machine for anything)  If you need it for it'a size then that's another thing entirely but still then there are other options for your $800.

$800?  Yes, for the higher-end one with the DVD+/-RW drive.  The base one is $599, and can be had for even cheaper in their refurb section...

For small form factor PCs, which is what this guy is looking for, it's tough to find a better price/power, or price/quality, ratio.  I own both an older G4 Mac Mini and an older mini-ITX system, and quite frankly, the mini-ITX system is junk.  It's underpowered (even for its time) and the tv-out is blurry.  Worst of all, when you add the cost of the mini-ITX board, the case, the memory, the hard drive, a slim-line CD drive, and the video card (to avoid the blurry tv-out), you're pretty close to that $599 and almost twice the size.

[Demon-Seed]

Hey
Yea I have to agree the ITX is too expensive. Now the idea I have it does not have to be completely mini..just reasonable so that it blends with my decor/current cable box etc.... the newegg site has several options. I did not know about that site..its good.

thx
Jim

[knave]

$800?  Yes, for the higher-end one with the DVD+/-RW drive.  The base one is $599, and can be had for even cheaper in their refurb section...

Hey no problem, I think anyone would get their $$ worth out of a $599 mac mini.  And that's a good option if you need your PC to be small.  I still could build a good Mame PC for way less than $599.  You hit the nail on the head when you said the ITX is pricy.  I would not go that route.  I would use conventional parts.

[Demon-Seed]

Hey
Just curious has anyone on the board made a box to tv? Maybe some links could be posted of what others have done..to make the box stylish.  Also links of "Arcade in a box" that look stylish would be cool too..
thanks
Jim