After winning the Sustainable Tech Award at Computex 2024, the MSI Cubi NUC series proves that you don’t need a big PC to get big performance and eco-friendly features.
There is something to be said for big gaming PCs with the ability to pack in all the components you could ever need, but MSI is taking a bold step and trying something different, and the Cubi series shows that good things can come in small packages. These compact yet powerful machines redefine what it means to have a powerful, versatile and eco-friendly PC. Let’s take a look at what makes the MSI Cubi so exciting and why it’s worth considering for your next computer upgrade.
At first glance, the MSI Cubi’s small size might lead you to underestimate its capabilities since who expects a powerhouse in a case slightly bigger than an Android TV box? However, its small stature is deceiving. Packed within its 0.66-liter case is a computing powerhouse that rivals the performance of full-sized desktops. For instance, the Cubi 5 10M boasts an Intel Core i7 processor from the Comet Lake series, ensuring you have all the computing power you need to tackle even the most demanding tasks.
One of the most impressive aspects of the MSI Cubi series is its commitment to sustainability. The Cubi NUC 1MG and Cubi NUC 13MQG were awarded the prestigious Sustainable Tech Award at Computex 2024 and the Red Dot Award 2024 for their eco-friendly design. These models are manufactured using post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic materials and feature a recycled pulp tray packaging design that significantly reduces waste. In addition, the Cubi series comes with an exclusive Power Meter app that supports a one-click power save button, carbon emissions and energy cost calculation, enabling users to make environmentally conscious decisions.
But the MSI Cubi isn’t just about being green; it’s also about delivering unparalleled performance and convenience. The Cubi NUC supports up to four displays and can be VESA mounted for incredible flexibility, whether you’re watching a movie with family or participating in an online conference call at work. With Thunderbolt 4 technology, the Cubi NUC offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps, allowing seamless editing, collaboration, and sharing.
The power of these small PCs is amazing, but the versatility is even more so. These mini-PCs are designed to support standard VESA mounts, which means you can easily attach them to the back of a monitor, making the PC completely invisible. This not only saves valuable desk space but also adds a sleek, minimalist aesthetic to your setup. What’s more, the Cubi NUC supports an external power switch, making it incredibly convenient to turn on your computer even when it’s in a hard-to-reach area.
Even though the Cubi PCs are small, MSI has not neglected the tinkerers and has somehow managed to make them upgradeable, thanks to their user-friendly design. By simply removing four screws on the bottom cover, you can access and replace the M.2 SSD, memory modules and 2.5″ HDD/SSD storage bays. This level of upgradability ensures that your Cubi can grow with your needs, extending its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
“The MSI Cubi NUC range of mini PCs is an example of the company’s commitment to pushing the envelope with innovation, sustainability and user-centric design.”
Despite its powerful performance, the MSI Cubi series remains remarkably quiet and energy-efficient. With an excellent thermal design and low-noise fan, the Cubi operates at a mere 23.6 dB in idle mode. This means you can enjoy a peaceful working environment without the distracting hum of a noisy computer. The Cubi’s energy efficiency is also noteworthy, with some models consuming less than 30 watts under full load, making them true energy vanguards.
The MSI Cubi series offers an impressive array of connectivity options, ensuring that you can connect all your devices seamlessly. With a complete array of I/O ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and dual Ethernet ports, the Cubi NUC allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking. The latest wireless standards, such as Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, provide fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
These little boxes are impressive on many levels, but somehow, I was still shocked by just how much the MSI Cubi series punches well above its weight class. Benchmark tests have shown that the Cubi 5 12M, equipped with an Intel Core i3-1215U processor, delivers smooth everyday computing performance, making it an excellent choice for basic productivity tasks and media streaming. While it may not be suitable for intensive gaming or media editing, the Cubi’s integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics provide enough graphical power to handle graphics-heavy web pages and smoothly display HD video.
We are in an age where a tiny PC can compete with bigger machines, and it is amazing to see. The MSI Cubi NUC range of mini PCs is an example of the company’s commitment to pushing the envelope with innovation, sustainability and user-centric design. Whether you’re a professional looking for a compact yet powerful workstation or a home user looking for a versatile and eco-friendly computing solution, the MSI Cubi has something to offer.
With impressive performance, expandability and convenience features, it’s no wonder the Cubi series has won numerous awards and accolades, even at Computex 2024. So, if you’re looking for a Mini PC that redefines compact computing, look no further than the MSI Cubi — a small wonder that packs a big punch.
Make sure to stay up to date with Computex 2024 here.
