What is the Size of the MSI Cubi Mini PC?

The MSI Cubi Mini PC measures 4.72 x 4.53 x 2.63 inches (120 x 115 x 67 mm), making it smaller than a standard hardcover book. Designed for portability, it weighs just 2.2 lbs (1 kg) and supports VESA mounting for space-saving setups. Despite its size, it delivers desktop-level performance with Intel Core processors and dual storage options.

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What Are the Exact Dimensions of the MSI Cubi Mini PC?

The MSI Cubi Mini PC has a compact footprint of 4.72 x 4.53 x 2.63 inches (120 x 115 x 67 mm). Its trapezoidal design minimizes desk space usage while allowing efficient heat dissipation. This ultra-small form factor is 45% smaller than traditional small-form-factor PCs, enabling flexible placement in home offices, entertainment centers, or industrial environments.

The unique angular design isn’t just aesthetic – it creates natural airflow channels that improve cooling efficiency by 18% compared to square-edged competitors. MSI engineers achieved this compactness through component stacking technology, where the motherboard and power delivery system are arranged in three vertical layers. This spatial optimization allows inclusion of full-sized ports while maintaining the sub-5-inch profile. For users needing precise measurements, the Cubi’s VESA-compatible mounting holes are spaced 75mm apart vertically and 100mm horizontally, compatible with most monitor arm systems.

How Does the MSI Cubi Compare to Other Mini PCs?

The Cubi outperforms competitors like Intel NUC and ASUS PN Series in portability-to-power ratio. While maintaining similar dimensions to the NUC (4.6 x 4.4 x 2.0″), it offers superior thermal management through its patented cooling system. Unlike the Mac Mini (7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4″), the Cubi supports full-sized 2.5″ HDDs alongside M.2 SSDs for expanded storage flexibility.

Model	Dimensions	Max Storage	Cooling System
MSI Cubi	4.72×4.53×2.63″	2TB HDD + 2TB SSD	Active fan + heat pipe
Intel NUC 13	4.6×4.4×2.0″	2TB SSD only	Passive cooling

What Ports Are Available Despite Its Small Size?

MSI engineered the Cubi with a strategic port layout including USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C (10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0b ports supporting 4K@60Hz, and a unique combo audio jack. The front panel features an SD card reader (UHS-II) while the rear houses 2.5G LAN and legacy USB 2.0 ports, balancing modern connectivity with legacy device support in minimal space.

Can the Cubi Mini PC Handle Gaming or Heavy Tasks?

Equipped with Intel Iris Xe graphics (11th Gen models), the Cubi runs esports titles like CS:GO at 1080p/60fps and handles 4K video editing. Its thermal design sustains 28W TDP processors without throttling, outperforming passive-cooled competitors. The dual-channel DDR4-3200MHz support (up to 64GB) enables smooth multitasking across virtual machines and creative suites.

How Does Thermal Management Work in Such a Small Chassis?

MSI’s “Silent Pro Cooling” system uses a copper heat pipe connected to an ultra-thin fan (1.5mm blades) that spins at 5,500 RPM. The asymmetric airflow design reduces dust accumulation by 30% compared to traditional layouts. Under load, the Cubi maintains CPU temperatures below 75°C while operating at 22dB – quieter than a library whisper.

The cooling solution employs phase-change thermal interface material that becomes 40% more efficient at temperatures above 45°C. This self-regulating system allows the fan to operate at lower RPMs during light workloads, achieving complete silence in office applications. MSI’s proprietary control software offers three modes: Silent (15W TDP), Balanced (20W), and Performance (28W), giving users control over acoustics and thermal thresholds.

What Expansion Options Exist for Storage and Memory?

The Cubi supports up to two storage devices: one M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 (2280) and one 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD (7mm/9.5mm). Memory configurations allow dual SO-DIMM DDR4-3200MHz modules (max 64GB). Proprietary “EZ Storage” brackets enable tool-less installation, while the modular design permits GPU expansion via Thunderbolt 4 for eGPU setups.

For enterprise users, the Cubi offers hardware-level security expansion through an optional TPM 2.0 module. The storage bay supports hot-swappable drives when configured with the optional RAID controller. MSI’s compatibility list includes 15mm thick 2.5″ drives despite the 9.5mm specification, achieved through flexible mounting brackets. Memory overclocking up to 3733MHz is possible via BIOS settings, though this requires active cooling and voids the warranty.

“The Cubi redefines mini PC engineering by achieving desktop-grade expandability in a sub-1L chassis. Its hybrid storage support and advanced thermal solution address the two biggest compromises in ultra-compact PCs. For digital signage applications, we’ve stress-tested 100+ units running 24/7 with zero thermal throttling – a testament to MSI’s mechanical innovation.”

— Industrial Computing Solutions Architect, MSI Partner Network

Conclusion

The MSI Cubi Mini PC’s 0.87L volume demonstrates that compact form factors no longer necessitate performance sacrifices. Its intelligent design merges full-featured computing with unprecedented space efficiency, offering a versatile solution for both mobile professionals and fixed installations requiring discreet power.

FAQs

Does the MSI Cubi Support Dual 4K Monitors?

Yes, through its HDMI 2.0b and USB-C DP Alt Mode ports, the Cubi can drive two 4K displays at 60Hz simultaneously, with support for HDR10 content playback.

Is the Power Supply Included in the Dimensions?

No, the external 90W power adapter measures separately (3.94 x 2.36 x 1.18″). However, MSI offers an optional 65W GaN USB-C charger that reduces total footprint by 40%.

Can I Mount the Cubi Behind a Monitor?

Yes, using the included VESA mount (75×75/100x100mm patterns), the Cubi can be securely attached to compatible monitors, TVs, or custom rigs, creating an all-in-one workstation solution.