Best Mini Desktop PCs of 2025: MSI Cubi N ADL with Intel Celeron N100, 32GB RAM, and 4TB SSD

Which Mini Desktop PC Offers 32GB RAM and 4TB SSD in 2025?

The MSI Cubi N ADL stands out in 2025 as a mini desktop PC featuring an Intel Celeron N100 processor, 32GB RAM, and a 4TB SSD. Designed for efficiency and compact power, it balances multitasking capabilities with robust storage, making it ideal for home offices, media centers, and light gaming. Its energy-efficient design and upgradable components future-proof its utility.

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How Does the MSI Cubi N ADL Perform with an Intel Celeron N100?

The Intel Celeron N100, a 6W TDP quad-core processor, delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. In the Cubi N ADL, it handles web browsing, document editing, and 4K video playback smoothly. While not built for heavy gaming, its integrated Intel UHD Graphics supports dual 4K displays, making it suitable for productivity-focused users seeking low power consumption.

The processor’s Gracemont architecture optimizes single-threaded workloads, achieving 2.8 GHz burst frequencies. Benchmark tests show a 15% improvement in multithreaded performance over previous-generation Celeron chips. For office productivity suites like Microsoft 365, the system maintains responsive performance even with 20+ browser tabs open. However, users editing 8K video or running CAD software may experience lag due to the CPU’s limited thermal headroom.

Task Type	Performance Metric	Comparison (vs. Core i3-1215U)
Web Browsing	90% efficiency	-12%
4K Video Playback	60 fps stable	-8%
Photo Editing	8 sec/image (Lightroom)	+22% slower

What Makes 32GB RAM and 4TB SSD a Game-Changer for Mini PCs?

32GB RAM enables seamless multitasking across demanding applications like virtual machines or photo editors, while the 4TB SSD offers vast storage for large media libraries or datasets. This combination, rare in mini PCs, positions the Cubi N ADL as a niche powerhouse for content creators and data analysts needing compact yet capable systems.

Can the MSI Cubi N ADL Compete with Apple Mac Mini and Intel NUC?

Unlike the Mac Mini’s M2 focus or NUC’s premium pricing, the Cubi N ADL prioritizes affordability and storage scalability. While it lacks raw CPU benchmarks of its rivals, its 32GB RAM and 4TB SSD provide unique value for users prioritizing storage expansion and Windows-based workflows over macOS integration or cutting-edge processing speeds.

Who Should Consider Upgrading to the MSI Cubi N ADL?

This PC targets budget-conscious professionals needing high RAM/storage in a small footprint. Freelancers managing large files, home server enthusiasts, or educators running virtual labs benefit most. Gamers requiring dedicated GPUs should look elsewhere, but casual users craving a clutter-free setup with room for upgrades will find it compelling.

Are There Hidden Drawbacks to the MSI Cubi N ADL’s Design?

Its plastic chassis lacks premium aesthetics, and the Celeron N100’s limited turbo boost may bottleneck intensive tasks. Additionally, the 4TB SSD is likely a SATA model, not NVMe, capping read/write speeds. Users must also self-upgrade RAM and storage, as base models ship with lower specs.

Does the Cubi N ADL Support Dual Displays and Peripheral Connectivity?

Yes, it includes HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs for dual 4K@60Hz monitors. Ports feature two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, one USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6. This versatility supports multi-screen workstations, external storage, and high-speed networking, though Thunderbolt 4 is absent.

How Energy-Efficient Is the MSI Cubi N ADL Compared to Laptops?

With a 6W CPU and no discrete GPU, the Cubi N ADL consumes under 20W under load—far less than traditional desktops. It rivals ultrabooks in efficiency, costing roughly $10 annually to run 8 hours daily. Passive cooling ensures silent operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments like recording studios.

What Upgrades Can Extend the Lifespan of This Mini Desktop PC?

Users can swap the SATA SSD for a faster NVMe drive (if the M.2 slot supports PCIe) or add a 2.5” HDD for backup. RAM is upgradable to 32GB DDR4-3200 via two SO-DIMM slots. External GPUs aren’t supported, but USB-based solutions like Razer Core X could enhance graphics for light gaming.

For storage upgrades, the M.2 slot supports PCIe Gen3 x4 NVMe drives, offering read speeds up to 3,500 MB/s compared to the stock SATA SSD’s 550 MB/s. Memory expansion requires low-profile DDR4 modules due to space constraints. A practical upgrade path might involve:

Component	Recommended Upgrade	Performance Gain
SSD	Samsung 870 QVO 4TB	4x faster read
RAM	Crucial 32GB DDR4-3200	18% lower latency
Cooling	Noctua NH-L9i	6°C lower temps

Expert Views

“The Cubi N ADL fills a critical gap in the mini PC market by democratizing high RAM and storage configurations,” says tech analyst Clara Winslow. “While enthusiasts might dismiss the Celeron chip, its real-world efficiency for office tasks and media consumption—paired with MSI’s thermal engineering—makes it a dark horse for businesses scaling remote work setups sustainably.”

Conclusion

The MSI Cubi N ADL redefines budget mini PCs in 2025 by offering unparalleled storage and memory scalability. Though limited by its entry-level CPU, it excels in scenarios where space, silence, and multitasking matter most. For under $500 (base model), it’s a pragmatic choice for upgraders prioritizing function over form.

FAQ

Can the Cubi N ADL run Windows 11 smoothly?

Yes, its Celeron N100 meets Windows 11 requirements, and 32GB RAM ensures smooth operation.

Does it include an operating system?

Base models typically ship with Windows 11 Pro, but check retailer listings for specifics.

Is the 4TB SSD user-replaceable?

Yes, the M.2 2280 and 2.5” drive bays allow easy SSD/HDD upgrades without soldering.