By request, here are three updated builds, based on the original CustoMac post from June 2010 . These builds are our most current 1156 recommendations for fully compatible budget builds running Mac OS X as the primary operating system.





All three builds include:

Gigabyte LGA 1156 Motherboard

Intel Core i-series Quad-Core CPU

4GB or 8GB of RAM, expandable up to 16GB

1 TB Hard Drive

CD/DVD Burner

Case and Power Supply

Mac OS X Snow Leopard Retail DVD

We've included all components besides monitor, as any standard monitor will do. You can use these recommendations as a jumping off point for further customization, or as a shopping list. Prices reflect those as of February 2011, and do not include shipping or tax.





Budget Power Build 1

Core i5-760 / Gigabyte GA-H55M-UD2H / GeForce GT 240 / 4GB DDR3 RAM

$683.88







Hard Drive: Samsung Spinpoint 1 TB $62.99





Operating System: Mac OS X Snow Leopard $ 29.00





Budget Power Build 2



Core i7-870 / Gigabyte GA-H55M-UD2H / Radeon HD 5770 / 4GB DDR3 RAM

$991.23















Hard Drive: Samsung Spinpoint 1 TB $62.99



CPU Cooler: Scythe Mugen 2 $47.35





Power Supply: Corsair 650HX Modular 650W $119.99





Operating System: Mac OS X Snow Leopard $29.00





Budget Power Build 3

Core i7-870 / Gigabyte GA-P55A-UD3 / Radeon HD 5870 / 8GB DDR3 RAM

$1211.41







Hard Drive: Samsung Spinpoint 1 TB $62.95



CPU Cooler: Scythe Mugen 2 $47.35



Power Supply: Corsair 650HX Modular 650W $119.99



Operating System: Mac OS X Snow Leopard $ 29.00





Optional Accessories



Targus USB Bluetooth Adapter $22.98 NOTE: Only MODEL NO: ACB10us v1.0 will wake from sleep.

Oh, and don't forget, if you end up buying anything, click through one of the links above, or in the sidebar. That way, you'll be supporting the site, as well as getting the best prices. Thanks in advance!



