Building a computer is supposed to be easy; or so I’ve heard. Many computer geeks are opting to build their own computers now due to the inflated cost of buying a computer pre-built. Not only is it cheaper to build this way, but it’s also leading to some highly creative contraptions. These Franken-computers are some of the most intriguing designs out there. Think you could create something similar?
My personal favorite style of customized computer are those with clear cases, when embellished with LEDs and futuristic lighting the computers become a whole new device; they are like something plucked out of your favorite sci-fi game, likely hence why they tend to be favored by gamers.
Star Wars geek? Then you’ll probably love this Millennium Falcon computer case. Just by looking at the age of that monitor, we’re pretty sure this computer never ran at light-speed, but it’s nice to dream.
This computer case mod is my personal favorite, I’m a Child of Atom and a massive Fallout geek – I love the retro nuclear apocalypse graphics, and the only thing that would make this computer even better is if it ticked and clicked like a Geiger counter.
Steampunk is a staple geek trend to fall back on; everyone loves the nostalgia of it, and the quirky futuristic engineering meets the Victorian style look might even impress friends who aren’t tech and sci-fi fans. It’s quite easy to source the components for this computer case too; all you need is various metallic spray paints and a few pipes and trimmings from your local hardware store.
If cute Disney robots are your thing then you might enjoy this Wall-E themed computer case. This adorable little fella will fill you with joy every day and be the ultimate computing companion. He may not be a NASA super robot of any sorts, but he sure will make some sweet whizzy noises and beeps. Endless entertainment.
This is the droid you’re looking for! (We know, that joke has been said a thousand times…) This R2-D2 case requires minimal computer building experience – in fact, at that size, you could probably just shove any standard desktop computer into his compartment, and voila! Extra points if you can add a motor into his head so it spins.
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Many great, customized computers are housed in ordinary everyday objects; these are a great way of showing off your passion for another hobby in your life. This modder was also interested in guitars, so a custom acrylic case was made and an old fret board was added. We wouldn’t advise picking this up to play it, unless you want every note to potentially erase a folder…
Fancy making your computer “control room” into something reminiscent of a bio-weapon testing centre? You might get blamed for the zombie apocalypse, but at least you’ll have a completely awe-inspiring beast-like machine.
Everyone seems to love Imperial AT-ATs, regardless of their somewhat evil nature. An At-AT computer case is all the fun of a pet, but with none of the mess; it can perform better calculations than your cat, and never moans at you to go outside like your dog does. This wonderful contraption was created over at Asphiax.
It might be considered slightly socially unacceptable to create a replica Bioshock gun, but you might easily get away with a Bioshock inspired computer; and you won’t need at hack darts to get into it! This computer mod is a beautiful selection of copper, gears and pipes, it’s a steam-punk lover’s dream.
So, what is your dream computer mod?
Article by Kirstie, chief geek and tech blogger at Flow Optics, specialists in optical transceivers.