Review of MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: A Solid Mini PC, If Available

In the past week, I’ve had the chance to use the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ as my main work computer, diving deep into its capabilities and putting it through a series of benchmark tests to understand its performance compared to other similar devices available. While it may not be the flagship mini PC out there, the Cubi NUC 13MQ does offer a robust performance. Let’s explore what it does well and where it has room for improvement.

Why You Should Trust My Review

I’m Rebecca Spear, a dedicated Gaming and News Editor passionate about minimalistic design paired with superior functionality. I’ve invested countless hours evaluating mini PCs from a wide array of brands, honing my eye for what makes a mini PC worth your time and money. With that background, I dive into each device ensuring a thorough assessment supported by extensive real-world testing experience.

A Note on Review Conditions

Before delving into details, it’s important to mention that MSI kindly provided a sample for this review. However, they had no influence on, nor did they view, the content of this review prior to its publication.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Pricing and Specifications

The MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ carries a higher price tag, especially given its various configuration options. The particular configuration I analyzed isn’t readily available in most listings, presenting difficulty in finding it online. Here’s a closer view of its setup:

• Reviewed Configuration:
  • Price: $1,029.00 at B&H
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-1365U (10 cores, 12 threads, up to 5.2 GHz)
  • GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics (6 cores)
  • RAM: 16GB DDR5 @ 2,593 MHz
  • Storage: 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
  • Dimensions: 135.6 x 132.5 x 50.10mm
  • Weight: 1.45kg
  • Warranty: 2-year

With a sturdy Intel Core i7-1365U vPro CPU and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, alongside 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, this package is shrouded in a sense of durability with a two-year warranty cover, although its listed cost skews higher than its stated MSRP of $667.

Hunting online for this specific setup was challenging, as available configurations are priced well above the suggested retail value. A similar setup with 32GB of RAM comes in at an eye-watering $1,229.00 at B&H, which many would agree is steep.

What’s Inside the Box?

Upon opening the box, you’ll find the mini PC paired with essentials like a power adapter, power cable, VESA mount, and an external power button. However, unlike many competitors, MSI does not include HDMI cables, so you’ll need to provide your own for monitor connections.

Design and Build Quality

Adorned in sleek, professional black casing, this mini PC makes a seamless addition to either home or office environments. A simple yet effective selection of ports allows for easy connections. It’s subtly design-oriented, void of excessive RGB lighting or intricate design features, yet robust enough to support practical office or casual interactions.

Spatially, it claims no more real estate than a regular bagel on your desk and can be mounted behind your monitor with the VESA bracket for a cleaner appearance. A neat touch is the external power button, allowing you to easily manage the device’s power without having to fumble for hidden buttons.

The assortment of ports includes 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, and 2x HDMI ports, as well as connections for LAN, headphones, plus others – altogether supporting up to four displays.

Component access and upgradability

For those favoring custom modifications, gaining access to the internal components is straightforward—simply unscrew the parts within the rubber feet at its base. Inside, you can upgrade the machine’s memory and storage as needed.

Performance and Thermals

In terms of performance, the Cubi NUC 13MQ doesn’t disappoint, yet also doesn’t overly impress. Benchmarks reveal mixed outcomes, with its Intel Core i7 meeting expectations in Geekbench tests, but falling short in CPU-heavy Cinebench tests. While GPU tasks with Intel Iris Xe Graphics scored pretty well, especially noted in some 3DMark tests, certain actions drew out longer than anticipated.

Storage performance hit promising notes in CrystalDiskMark results, though the overall speed felt dampened with certain real-world tasks. Expectations were misaligned when evaluating how the device managed intensive projects like 4K transcoding—a tedious process for this setup.

Thermal and Auditory Experience

Thermally sound, it sustains a comfortable heat profile even under stress tests. However, the persistent, albeit soft, high-pitched noise emanating from it is something to note if you’re sensitive to such disturbances.

Exploring Alternatives

For those scouting alternatives, mini PC options abound with varied pricing and features that might suit varied needs and budgets better than the Cubi NUC 13MQ for now.

Final Verdict

Overall, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ carves out a respectable niche for itself as a compact, versatile computer with a hefty range of features neatly packed into a minuscule form factor. However, its price point could be a deterrent, especially when evaluated alongside its performance cap. If space-saving devices rank high on your requirements, with a good mix of accessibility and professional functionality, it might deserve a closer look, provided you catch it at an honest price!

Is This Mini PC for You?

Consider it if you seek a compact setup, being mindful of its higher price and lesser speed with demanding applications. Otherwise, alternative models might better match your cravings for powerful, budget-friendly tech companions.