Barebones PCs (13 products)

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Why choose a barebones PC?

When you want to have greater control over each element of the build of your PC, a barebones is one way to go. It's not, as the name might suggest, just an empty case in which you must start from scratch. These barebones computers are something of a head start, and are generally provided as the chassis and basic components (such as the motherboard and PSU). From this start you then need to purchase and install other devices and components to create a fully operational machine.

What components do I need?

When buying a barebones computer, it's essential that you check the specs carefully in advance so that you can ensure you know exactly what other components you're going to need to purchase in order to complete your PC system. Dependent on the particular barebones PC you go for, some of the things you might need to check out are processors, graphics cards, memory, storage and so on. Each of these is absolutely essential in a 'finished' computer so it's advisable to know in advance what you need and what the motherboard can handle.

You should also find out how many I/O devices the motherboard can accommodate, as well as how many PCI card slots are available. It will be necessary to connect up to a monitor, and a keyboard and mouse (even if this is through Wi-Fi rather than an I/O port), so you also need to check what the computer is capable of - ie. How many ports it has. Don't go for something with less HDMI, USB, DP or audio ports than you will need. You can even be smart, here, and factor in any future improvements you might make to your system.

Don't forget the operating system!

Another essential with a barebones PC is the OS you will use. Don't forget to also include the cost of an operating system in the calculations you will make for your PC budget. One of the most popular operating systems is Microsoft Windows, and the new iteration was released in late 2021 (Windows 11).

What's actually included with a barebones computer?

You will notice this when browsing the PCs on the Ebuyer website, but some barebones computers are more, well, barebones than others. The specifications do vary between models and manufacturers. Some barebones PCs will be near enough fully kitted out with almost every component required already installed, and just some to 'make up' the completion of your system. Other barebones computers will have the absolute minimum number of components included. But, typically, when you purchase a barebones you can expect to find that it comprises a computer case with the motherboard and power-supply already fitted.

It is then up to you as the builder to add storage, memory, CPU etc to flesh out the machine to a state of operational capability. Adding a monitor, keyboard and mouse and you are good to go. Not forgetting that operating system, of course.

Barebones: Perfect for case modding

A truly interesting development since PCs have become ubiquitous is case modding. It's a creative way to display some personality. Rather than just the traditional black or grey 'box' case which houses your PC components, case modding means altering the appearance of the case as a way to express yourself creatively.

This could mean painting the case, or building something else around it, or even just using futuristic and eye-catching components within a see-through case. The internet is littered with examples of case modifications by fans of gaming, fantasy and science-fiction or horror franchises. If you are into case modding or even if you just want to build your device with the most high-tech parts available, then choosing to use a barebones computer will give you an easy starting point.

Barebones PCs at Ebuyer

With Ebuyer, shopping for barebones PCs couldn't be easier. We will provide you with all of the information you need to ensure the device you choose is exactly the right one for you.