MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ Review: A Solid Mini PC That’s Hard to Find

In this MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ review, I’ve put this mini PC through its paces as my primary work computer over the past week. To evaluate its prowess, I’ve run it through the typical battery of benchmark tests to see how well it stacks up against comparable models. While it might not be a groundbreaking mini PC, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ is a reliable performer. Let’s dig into its strengths and areas for improvement.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Pricing and Specifications

Thanks to a sample unit from MSI, I’m able to provide this review independently. Rest assured, the company had no control over the content I crafted. Now, speaking of specs and pricing, this little device is somewhat on the pricier side given its configuration options. Although nailing down the exact version I used for testing was a bit challenging online, there are a number of configurations you can choose from. Here’s the version I got to review:

• 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 (5.34 x 5.22 x 1.97in)
• Weight: 1.45kg (3.2lbs)
• Warranty: 2-year

The model I reviewed came endowed with an Intel Core i7-1365U processor, Iris Xe Graphics, 16GB RAM, and a formidable 1TB SSD. Covered under a two-year warranty, this mini PC touts an official MSRP of $667, according to MSI.

Finding this exact setup online proved tricky, as many listings I encountered had either inflated prices or differed in memory size. For instance, a comparable model with 32GB RAM was priced at a steep $1,229.00. This represents one of the current hurdles with this mini PC—rationally priced listings are scarce. Hopefully, we’ll see more wallet-friendly options soon.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: What’s in the Box?

Inside the box, aside from the mini PC itself, you’ll find a power adapter, power cable, VESA mount, and an external power button. However, unlike many competitors, no HDMI cables were supplied, so you’ll need to have one handy for connecting to your monitors or TV.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Design and Build Quality

This compact computer sports a sleek and professional black casing. It’s not the kind to shout for attention with flashy lights or extravagant designs, making it quite versatile for both home and work environments. Its unobtrusive size means it occupies as much desk space as a bagel, fitting snugly under your monitor. There’s an added VESA mount for tucking it neatly behind a compatible display or under a desk.

An external power button caters to the ease of switching the device on or off, wherever it’s mounted, without rummaging for the power switch. This thoughtfulness aligns with the understated elegance of the design.

In terms of connectivity, it boasts an impressive array of ports: Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, microSD, LAN, and more, allowing for multiple accessories and up to four displays, making it suitable for a capable workstation setup.

Component Access and Upgradability

To tinker with the Cubi NUC 13MQ, you unscrew the rubber foot screws underneath. With the metal shield removed, you can upgrade RAM, storage, and even slot in additional drives, allowing for future readiness.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Performance and Thermals

In performance scenarios, this mini PC could show patience-testing moments, whether it was launching programs like Photoshop or rendering edits. Nevertheless, it excelled at staying functional without crashes. Impressively, its benchmark scores held disappointment in areas like Cinebench yet managed to hit dandy speeds on CrystalDiskMark.

When visual capabilities came under scrutiny, tests like 3DMark Time Spy revealed expected results from the Iris Xe Graphics, though not exceptional. Meanwhile, transcoding tasks tested my patience but didn’t break the device’s stride.

Thermally, the device kept cool enough, and although there is no active fan, it still emits a faint whine when active, which can be distracting during quieter moments.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Alternatives

With its particular pricing, there are alternatives with arguably better value. If competitive pricing and minimal distractions are what you’re looking for in a mini PC, exploring options like Beelink or other brands might uncover more appealing devices that suit your needs without breaking the bank.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Final Thoughts

When all is said and done, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ delivers well on compactness and connectivity. It slots finely into any setting considering its professional design and VESA-mountable frame. However, finding this device at justifiable cost remains a concern. If you’re in the camp of those who appreciate functionality over flair and can find it at MSRP, it’s a worthy contender in the mini PC arena.