An ambitious hardware enthusiast is attempting to solve a very specific problem for high-end Apple desktop owners. A newly launched crowdfunding campaign introduces a conversion system designed to strip the proprietary interior out of a 2019 Mac Pro and replace it with standard, upgradable PC components. Known universally by its perforated aluminum moniker, the cheesegrater chassis represents a premium industrial design that many users remain reluctant to part with despite Apple's transition away from Intel architecture.
The proposed engineering package provides everything required to mount conventional hardware inside the Apple enclosure. It accommodates standard ATX motherboards, regular power supplies, and graphics cards measuring up to 308 mm long and 140 mm tall. Cooling flexibility comes via support for air coolers up to 140 mm in height or liquid cooling loops featuring radiators up to 240 mm. Additionally, the setup makes room for two storage drives of either 2.5 or 3.5 inches.
Retaining the signature external aesthetic requires clever internal engineering. The kit utilizes custom adapter circuit boards and specialized wiring to keep the Mac Pro's three original front cooling fans operational. A dedicated interface bridge also links the original hardware power button, status indicator light, and dual USB-C ports directly to the replacement motherboard.
Despite the clever repurposing strategy, the project faces a steep uphill battle in the market. The kit carries a projected price tag of roughly $500, and buyers must independently source the Mac Pro case alongside all internal components including the processor, memory, and graphics card. Early traction on Kickstarter reflects these hurdles, pulling in just a single backer pledge totaling $7 against a lofty goal of over $10,000 with less than a month remaining.
Turn Your 2019 Mac Pro Into a Custom PC With a New $500 Conversion Kit
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