Review of the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: A Solid Mini PC Worth Seeking Out

Over the past week, I’ve had the chance to work with the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ as my primary workstation, pushing this tiny powerhouse through a variety of benchmark tests to gauge its capabilities against similar mini PCs on the market. While the Cubi NUC 13MQ might not be the flashiest option out there, it holds its ground as a dependable choice. Here’s a closer look at its strengths and some areas where it could use a little more punch.

To kick things off, let me share a bit about my approach and why users can rely on my insights. As someone who’s enamored with minimalistic design and impressive performance, I’ve dedicated countless hours to reviewing mini PCs. My experience helps me determine which of these compact devices are worth considering.

The MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ came to me as a review unit from MSI, but rest assured, the company didn’t influence the content of this review.

### MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Pricing and Specifications

Getting your hands on the specific configuration I tested is a bit tricky since the exact model isn’t commonly available. Nonetheless, MSI’s pricing has the Cubi NUC 13MQ listed at $667, though I found its closest counterpart, with double the RAM, fetching a steeper $1,229. The cost variance poses a challenge, and for now, cheaper and more accessible alternatives might appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Inside the box, along with the mini PC itself, you’ll find a power adapter, a VESA mount, and an external power button. However, unlike some competitors, an HDMI cable isn’t part of the package, so you’ll need to have one ready to connect the device.

### Design and Build Quality

Unlike some mini PCs that boast flashy lights and edgy designs, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ keeps things professional with a straightforward black casing. It’s as space-efficient as a bagel and fits snugly under a monitor or can be mounted via its VESA compatibility for a cleaner setup. The inclusion of an external power button, which you can conveniently place within reach, is a thoughtful touch that enhances usability.

Connectivity on this device is robust, featuring options that accommodate up to four displays, as well as a variety of accessories. You’ll find a rich array of ports, including Thunderbolt, USB-A, HDMI, and more, ensuring your peripherals can easily connect.

### Component Access and Upgradability

Accessing the internals is as simple as unscrewing its rubber feet, where you’ll find opportunities to upgrade its memory and storage, allowing the Cubi NUC 13MQ to extend its usability as your needs grow.

### Performance and Thermals

In terms of performance, this mini PC performs tasks slower than I typically expect. Opening applications like Photoshop took some patience, and while it handled all actions without crashing, its responsiveness could be improved. Running benchmarks, its scores in Geekbench and Cinebench were generally what I anticipated but lagged behind a bit in multi-core tests.

The SSD showed commendable read/write speeds; however, real-world performance felt hampered in tasks like transcoding 4K video, which took longer than many other models I’ve tested recently. This lag does impact the overall appeal, especially if you’re seeking a speedy handset for heavier workloads.

### Thermals and Noise

Temperatures during stress tests remained within acceptable limits, but the constant high-pitched whine is something you’ll likely notice, as it’s fairly audible and might be distracting in quiet environments.

### Alternatives and Final Thoughts

If you’re shopping for alternatives, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ has a tough crowd to compete with, considering both price and performance. There are mini PCs out there offering better value without sacrificing too much in the way of performance.

All in all, while the Cubi NUC 13MQ sports a comprehensive selection of ports and a minimalist design that blends well in any setting, it struggles to justify its price point given its performance flaws. For those seeking a space-saving solution with essential functionality, it could work, but there are other players in this category worth exploring, especially if high performance is a key criterion in your decision-making.

In sum, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ is a solid desk companion with ample connectivity features. However, its performance lag and pricing challenges hold it back from being an obvious pick unless you find it at a justifiable price point.