MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ Review: A Solid Mini PC Worth the Search

Over the past week, I had the chance to employ the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ as my primary work computer, running it through a gamut of benchmark tests alongside similar devices available today. It might not be the star in the mini PC realm, but the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ stands as a commendable piece of hardware. Let’s delve into where it really shines and where it has room for improvement.

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### Trust in My Insight

I’m Rebecca Spear, and as Gaming and News Editor, I’m all about the minimalist approach paired with high performance, something I greatly value in any tech product. I’ve invested hundreds, possibly thousands, of hours testing various mini PCs from numerous brands to discern which ones are worth your time and money.

Additionally, this review was facilitated by a sample provided by MSI, and it’s crucial to note they had no influence or insight into the evaluation before its publication.

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

This compact PC, while robust in performance, commands a significant price due to its configuration options. The particular configuration I tested isn’t commonly found online, presenting a slight challenge in gauging availability. Its price tag at B&H is set at $1,029, with specs like an Intel Core i7-1365U, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, enveloped within a neat 2-year warranty. This MSI mini PC, according to the manufacturer, has an MSRP of $667. Unfortunately, higher prices dominate the current listings I’ve seen, sticking out as a rather inflated cost compared to similar market offerings.

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### What’s Inside the Box?

Opening the box, aside from the mini PC itself, you’ll find a power adapter, power cable, VESA mount, and an external power button. Surprisingly, MSI didn’t include HDMI cables, so you’ll need one to connect your device to a display.

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### Design and Build Quality

Its design exudes a straightforward, professional look. The simple black casing seamlessly fits in both casual and business settings. Taking up only about the space of a bagel, it neatly fits beneath a monitor. Or, if you prefer a cleaner setup, the included VESA mount facilitates an easy attachment to the back of a compatible monitor or underneath a desk.

Beyond its pleasing design, the mini PC features an array of ports ready for any accessory you might need. You can connect up to four monitors through its various Thunderbolt, USB, and HDMI ports among others.

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### Component Access and Upgradability

Should you wish to make upgrades, accessing the inside of the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ is straightforward. Just unscrew the four screws under the rubber feet and you’re in. It supports upgrading the memory and storage, providing flexibility for future components.

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### Performance and Thermals

Now, here’s where things are a mixed bag. The Cubi NUC 13MQ performed slower than expected in some benchmarks, and it was a bit slow at times when launching applications like Photoshop. However, it didn’t crash or freeze during use.

After executing several tests, including CPU and GPU benchmarks, the performance scores came back a bit lower than expected. For instance, transcoding a 4K video took more time than other devices I’ve tested recently. On the thermal side, it ran cool even under stress but emitted a constant, high-pitched hum that could be distracting.

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### Could This Mini PC Be the Right Fit For You?

If your workspace demands a small footprint device with a focus on a multitude of connections, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ could be a viable option, particularly with its sleek design and the external power button for easy power cycling. However, its performance isn’t groundbreaking, and the price might steer some potential buyers towards more cost-effective alternatives.

In the end, if you’re looking for high-caliber power for gaming or intensive workflows, this probably isn’t the best fit. Conversely, for those seeking a pleasantly compact form factor with versatile mounting options and satisfying connectivity, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ might just hit the spot—if you can snag it at a friendly price.