Dear Bargain Hunters:

I'm hoping IBM will follow suit on its web site (for the mass market), but I did want to point out that Dell Small Business is now offering PCs that do not require you to pay the "Microsoft tax." That's because these systems include a copy of FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org) in the box (but not installed -- the hard disk is empty).

FreeDOS is an open source version of DOS. Dell evidently imagines that most purchasers of these desktop systems (their "n" models) will install Linux, eComStation, or other non-Microsoft operating systems. (Without paying money to Microsoft for something they don't use.)

Here's the direct link to Dell's n-model web site:

http://www1.us.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/desktops_n

For a 3% cash rebate, visit FatCash.com, then link to Dell Small Business from there instead. I would also recommend monitoring FatWallet.com for information on Dell Small Business coupon codes that pop up from time to time.

As an example, as I write this you can get a basic Dell desktop system (without monitor and without Microsoft Windows) for $319 with free shipping.

Wal-Mart (http://www.wal-mart.com) is also selling new Microsoft-free PCs from its online store at prices starting below $200.

Of course, you might have to search a bit for a couple drivers for your favorite operating system. Audio and ethernet are the most likely to be the problem areas, in that order. However, it's probably worth the risk since you can always buy an inexpensive PCI adapter (with driver support) for either of these functions. I also don't think the risk is particularly high.

I have no affiliation with any of these companies.

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