Build Yourself a Hackintosh Computer

You can build your own hackintosh computer if you want a cheap way to run Mac OS on PC. Keep in mind that this is not hassle free and will require you having some technical computer knowledge to pull it off. However it is certainly possible ...

The Switch to Intel Processors

In 2005 when Apple switched to Intel processors the Macintosh became more like a regular PC hardware-wise. People started wondering if Apple was going to release Mac OS on PCs now when it supports that kind of hardware. It didn't happen and instead it started a "hackintosh" scene if you will. The idea is to get Mac OS X installed on a PC. Fooling Mac OS X thinking it is running on a real Mac.

Why not buy a Mac instead?

You may wonder why use so much time getting this to work, when buying a Mac will make it trouble free and get you up and running in no time. Well, first of all I would say it is a question about money. The Mac is expensive and if it is possible to save a few hundred $ the hackintosh may be an alternative. Also some other good arguments for building your own hackintosh:

• Saves you money
• It is getting easier to do every year
• Easy to upgrade
• You learn alot
• It is fun building your own computer!
• It is a challenge!

So How Do I Begin?

The easiest way is to build a new PC with hardware that is known to work. If you are planning to install Mac OS X on the PC you have now it may be possible but, it may require you to do some searching to find out if your hardware is supported. My recommendation is to build a new PC from scratch because this will get you the most compatible setup. It will be as you have a real Mac in front of you and it will work with software update etc..

Example: Powerful Budget Build

I will show you an example of components that is known working together hackintosh - wise. This setup requires no "tweaking" and will work right out of the box if you follow the installation instructions. (read below)

Motherboard: Gigabyte Micro ATX Motherboard GA-H55M-UD2H

CPU: Intel Core i5-760 2.8GHz

Memory (RAM): Corsair XMS3 4 GB Dual Channel DDR3

Graphics: GeForce GT240 SuperClocked

Hard Drive: Samsung 1 TB Spinpoint 7200 RPM

CD/DVD Burner: Sony Nec Optiarc AD-7241S-0B

Case: Cooler Master Elite

Power Supply: Antec BP550 Plus 550W ATX12V V2.2 Modular

Operating System: Mac OS X Snow Leopard

How to Install Mac OS X on my PC?

Now you have everything you need to get up and running. For installation instructions I recommend reading the excellent guide from tonymacx86. This guide will help you get up and running with the hardware suggested above. You are of course free to select another case, power supply, hard drive (SSD for example). Make sure you use the suggested motherboard though. Using the correct motherboard and graphic card is the most important parts in a custom Mac build. Other components can in most cases be changed to your own preference.