MSI Crystal 945 PC emulates iMac styling
updated 02:30 pm EDT, Tue October 3, 2006
MSI PC Emulates iMac
Computer manufacturers have at different times been accused of drawing from Apple's design elements once they prove popular. While the Sony VAIO LS1 has been likened to newer iMacs in its design philosophy, the newly-unveiled Crystal 945 by MSI is the first all-in-one computer beyond Apple to directly implement the iMac's balancing computer design. As with the Apple model, the MSI system's 17-inch screen and internal components pivot on the tip of an angled metal stand which includes a slot for cable management in the back. The design also shares the iMac's use of a minimalist silver and white enclosure.
Notably, MSI has had to make multiple sacrifices to achieve a similar style. As the Crystal 945 uses Intel's dual-core Pentium 4 rather than the more efficient Core architecture, the casing is considerably thicker and requires extensive vent grilles on the back to accommodate system heat. However, the MSI unit also features more expansion options, including a PC Card slot, 7-in-1 card reader, and a removable 2.5-inch hard drive. MSI does not list pricing, though its modest specifications suggest a lower price than Apple's $999 iMac. The Taiwan firm says it is already shipping the Crystal to North America.
