OpenMac: The Apple Alternative!

Here it is... The first company that defies Apple. Psystar announced the first Apple compatible personal computer. The OpenMac!
Psystar doesn't care that Apple's EULA prohibits using OS X on any machine not made by Apple and, in fact, they say that Apple's terms "violate U.S. monopoly laws", posing the example of Microsoft theoretically saying you could only install Windows on Dell machines.

The Open Computer is a PC that works just like a Mac with Apple's latest operating system OS X 10.5 a.k.a. Leopard. With the Open Computer you can run OS X natively as if you had purchased an expensive Apple computer except that, while paying less, you receive more. More after the jump.

Apple's entry-level computer, the Mac Mini, is a small and not very powerful machine. When comparing base configurations, the Mac Mini costs 150% of the price of the Open Computer 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 Open Computer does so playing games on it is a lost cause.

The new Mac clone comes in two flavors:

* Open Computer selling at $399.99 (252€). The highly extensible Open Computer is a configuration of PC hardware capable of running unmodified OS X Leopard kernels. If you purchase Leopard with your Open Computer we will not only include the actual Leopard retail package with genuine installation disc, but we also include a Psystar restore disc for your Open Computer and we will preinstall Leopard for free so you can begin to use your computer right out of the box.

Base Configuration:
- 2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo E4500 Processor
- 2GB of DDR2 667 memory
- Integrated Intel GMA 950 Graphics
- 20x DVD+/-R SATA drive that is Lightscribe-capable
- 4 rear USB Ports

* OpenPro Computer selling at $999.99 (631€). The bad boy OpenPro is a configuration of high-end PC hardware capable of running OS X Leopard kernels. With a slick case and 600 watts of power the OpenPro can take everything you can throw at it.
The new case features 3 120mm fans for a computer that runs completely cool regardless of how much CPU time you need and a 600W power supply. Firewire is standard on the OpenPro and it has USB ports on the front panel as well.
No base configuration. You have to choose what to buy on the site.

What about this Steve? Are you ready to support Apple's rising with all the related problems it comes with? ;-)