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We often brag about all the advantages of using Linux over other operating systems. One of those advantages is the cost. Most Linux distributions that offer support only cost $100 or less, while the vast majority of those without official support are free, as in freedom.

That factor allowed a geek like Lockergnome Forums’ own MrStevenRogers to put together a computer for less than £100.

Even converted into dollars (about $180), that’s cheaper than any pre-constructed computer with a pre-installed operating system you’re likely to find.

To be fair, he did already have some components on hand, such as a 250W power supply,a 30GB hard drive and a CD-RW/DVD combo, but he was able to add the following, including the OS, for that great price:
Duron 1600 @266 processor (£30)
2×256 DDR266 memory (£25)
Case (in blue) (£5)
PCCHIPS KT266 motherboard (£15)
ATI 7000 64MB DDR video card (£15)
Kubuntu Linux operating system (£0)

As prices are even lower for many of these components on this side of the pond, I’m willing to bet a geek in the U.S. could beat that price, with enough change left over for a celebratory beer.

Perhaps the most amazing part of this story is that the parts arrived at MrStevenRogers’ house at 11:00 AM and by 3:30 PM he was up and running. Whether that speed was due to excitement or coffee MSR didn’t reveal to us.

Have you put together a system at a substantial savings thanks in part to the fact you’ve used Linux as your operating system? Stop by the Lockergnome Forums and share your story with us.