I’ve been hunting around for a tiny desktop PC (prebuilt or barebone kit with parts) to use as a basic Windows home workstation, but the average Shuttle Cube is a bit high on the price-meter, so into the discount outlets and refurb bins we go for cheap deals:

This small form HP Evo d500 (from PC Mall ) runs on a 1.7GHz Intel Pentium 4 with 256MB RAM, 20GB hard disk, and Windows XP Pro preinstalled. It goes for $295 and measures 3.9 x 13.1 x 14.4 inches, which, standing vertically, should take up less space than your own head as it lies on the desk, nursing your all-night WoW hangover.

This old IBM Intellistation E Pro (from Tiger Direct) runs on a 1.6GHz Intel Pentium 4 with 256MB RAM, 40GB hard disk, no OS installed. It probably pushes the definition of “tiny,” and the dimensions aren’t shown on the product page, but hey, the photo shows that the box is a bit narrower than the keyboard, and for $169.99 (after $50 mail-in rebate), you can’t go wrong. (Update: I just ordered this off Tiger Direct, and it’s not tiny at all. It’s huge. The photos are lying; it doesn’t look anything like what’s pictured on the product page. And the rebate takes 12-14 weeks to come. Don’t get this one.)

Cappuccino PC specializes in tiny, tiny boxes. Their flagship Cappuccino GX-1 has a footprint scarcely larger than a portable CD player, and the Buddie series boxes go for under $400 for a complete system. The only catch: somewhat lower-powered processors, usually VIA Edens and Pentium IIIs for the cheaper machines.

Mac mini 1.25GHz G4 40GB HD + Combo Drive for $474. ‘Nuff said.

(Want your Mac minis cheaper? The Apple Special Deals store has certified refurbished Mac minis starting at $379.)

You’ll definitely want more RAM for these babies, so get a 1 GB stick and you’re good for just about anything, possibly even recent 3D games.

If you really want to go the 1337 DIY small form route, Newegg’s got Shuttle Barebone Kits starting at $152. Enjoy.