MSI Cubi A Small Desktop Powered by Broadwell

Introduction to the MSI Cubi A

The MSI Cubi A series is a line of compact desktop computers designed for users seeking a powerful and space-saving solution. These mini PCs are known for their sleek design and impressive performance, making them suitable for various applications, including home entertainment, business computing, and digital signage.

The significance of the Broadwell processor in this context lies in its ability to deliver efficient performance within a small form factor. Broadwell is a fifth-generation Intel Core processor architecture known for its improved power efficiency and enhanced performance compared to previous generations.

Key Features and Specifications

The MSI Cubi A series boasts a range of features that cater to diverse user needs. Here are some key specifications and features:

* Compact Design: The MSI Cubi A series is remarkably compact, with dimensions typically measuring around 190 x 190 x 40 mm. This makes it ideal for users with limited desk space or who need a portable computing solution.
* Broadwell Processor: As mentioned earlier, the MSI Cubi A series is powered by Intel’s fifth-generation Broadwell processors. These processors offer a balance of performance and energy efficiency, making them suitable for both demanding tasks and everyday use.
* Memory and Storage: The MSI Cubi A series offers various memory and storage options, ranging from 4GB to 16GB of DDR3L RAM and up to 1TB of HDD or SSD storage. This allows users to customize their systems based on their specific requirements.
* Connectivity: The MSI Cubi A series comes equipped with a wide array of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, HDMI output, DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This ensures seamless integration with various peripherals and networks.
* Operating System: The MSI Cubi A series supports various operating systems, including Windows 10 and Linux distributions. This provides flexibility for users who prefer different operating environments.

Design and Form Factor

The MSI Cubi A, powered by a Broadwell processor, stands out as a compact desktop computer designed for users seeking a blend of performance and portability. Its diminutive size and sleek design make it an ideal choice for various settings, from home offices to small businesses.

Msi cubi a small desktop that runs on a broadwell processor – The Cubi A’s design prioritizes compactness and ease of use. Its small footprint and lightweight construction allow for flexible placement options, making it suitable for cramped workspaces or even travel. The Cubi A’s design features a simple, minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing functionality over elaborate styling. This approach contributes to its overall appeal and makes it blend seamlessly into any environment.

Size and Portability

The MSI Cubi A boasts an incredibly compact form factor, making it one of the smallest desktop computers available. Its dimensions are comparable to a standard paperback book, allowing for easy storage and transport. The Cubi A’s portability is further enhanced by its lightweight design, weighing in at just under 1 kg. This combination of compactness and portability makes it a versatile option for users who require a powerful desktop solution without sacrificing space or mobility.

Design Elements

The MSI Cubi A’s design is characterized by its minimalist approach and high-quality materials. The chassis is constructed from durable plastic, ensuring both strength and a sleek, modern look. The front panel features a simple, clean layout with essential ports and indicators. The Cubi A’s design prioritizes functionality and ease of use, making it a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice for users seeking a compact desktop solution.

Form Factor Comparison

The MSI Cubi A’s form factor falls under the category of “mini-PC” or “small form factor” (SFF) desktops. These computers are significantly smaller than traditional tower PCs, offering a space-saving advantage without compromising performance. The Cubi A’s compact size distinguishes it from other SFF desktops, making it one of the smallest and most portable options available. Its design philosophy emphasizes portability and versatility, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a compact desktop solution.

The MSI Cubi is a tiny powerhouse, perfect for those who need a compact desktop solution. Its Broadwell processor offers reliable performance, and with its small footprint, it can fit just about anywhere. While you’re enjoying your favorite shows on the Cubi, get ready for even more entertainment options as HBO and Cinemax are landing on PlayStation Vue soon.

This means you’ll have even more streaming choices right at your fingertips. The MSI Cubi is a versatile choice, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for a small but capable desktop.

Performance and Capabilities

The MSI Cubi A, powered by a Broadwell processor, delivers solid performance for everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and even some light gaming. While not designed for high-end gaming or intensive professional workloads, it excels in its intended role as a compact and efficient desktop solution.

Performance of the Broadwell Processor, Msi cubi a small desktop that runs on a broadwell processor

The Broadwell processor in the MSI Cubi A provides a significant performance boost compared to its predecessors, offering a smooth and responsive experience for everyday tasks. Broadwell’s architecture, with its improved efficiency and power consumption, enables the Cubi A to handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease.

Everyday Tasks and Multimedia

The MSI Cubi A is more than capable of handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and email. Its ability to smoothly run multiple applications simultaneously makes it suitable for users who require a reliable and efficient system for work or study. Additionally, the Cubi A delivers a high-quality multimedia experience, enabling users to enjoy streaming videos, playing music, and viewing photos without any lag or buffering.

Light Gaming

While not a gaming powerhouse, the MSI Cubi A can handle some light gaming titles, especially older or less demanding games. Users can enjoy casual gaming experiences with titles like League of Legends, Dota 2, or StarCraft II at acceptable frame rates. However, for more demanding modern games, a more powerful gaming PC is recommended.

Performance Compared to Other Desktops in the Same Price Range

When compared to other desktop computers in the same price range, the MSI Cubi A offers a competitive performance level. Its compact size and low power consumption make it an attractive option for users who prioritize efficiency and space-saving design. However, larger desktops with more powerful components may offer higher performance for more demanding tasks.

Connectivity and Expansion

The MSI Cubi A offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, enabling seamless integration with various peripherals and devices. This compact powerhouse boasts a range of ports and slots, catering to diverse needs and enhancing its versatility.

Ports and Connectivity

The MSI Cubi A offers a wide range of ports and connectivity options, allowing for versatile connectivity with various peripherals and devices. These options cater to a range of needs, ensuring seamless integration into different environments.

Port Type	Functionality
HDMI	Supports high-definition video output for connecting to monitors, TVs, and projectors.
DisplayPort	Provides another digital video output option for connecting to external displays.
VGA	Supports analog video output for connecting to older monitors or projectors.
Ethernet	Provides a wired network connection for reliable and high-speed internet access.
USB 3.0	Offers high-speed data transfer for connecting external storage devices, printers, and other peripherals.
USB 2.0	Provides standard data transfer speeds for connecting legacy devices or peripherals.
Audio Jack	Supports both microphone and headphone connectivity for audio input and output.
SD Card Reader	Allows for easy access to data stored on SD cards.

Expansion Options

The MSI Cubi A offers expansion options through its M.2 slot and various ports.

The M.2 slot allows for the installation of additional storage devices, such as SSDs, enhancing storage capacity and performance. The multiple USB ports enable the connection of various peripherals, including external hard drives, printers, scanners, and other devices. The HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA ports allow for the connection of multiple displays, expanding the workspace and enhancing productivity.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The MSI Cubi A, with its compact size and robust performance, caters to a diverse range of users and applications. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for various scenarios, from home offices to educational institutions and beyond.

The MSI Cubi A is designed to meet the needs of individuals and businesses seeking a powerful and compact computing solution. Its target audience includes:

Home Office Users

The MSI Cubi A is a perfect fit for home office users who require a reliable and space-saving desktop computer. Its compact design allows for easy placement on a desk or shelf, minimizing clutter. The Cubi A’s performance capabilities can handle demanding tasks such as document editing, spreadsheet calculations, and web browsing, making it suitable for professionals working from home.

• Freelancers and Small Business Owners: The MSI Cubi A provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for freelancers and small business owners who need a reliable desktop for everyday tasks.
• Home-based Professionals: Individuals working from home, such as writers, designers, and consultants, can benefit from the Cubi A’s compact size and performance.
• Students and Educators: The MSI Cubi A offers a powerful and affordable option for students and educators who need a desktop for research, writing, and multimedia tasks.

Digital Signage Applications

The MSI Cubi A’s compact size and reliable performance make it ideal for digital signage applications. Its low power consumption and silent operation ensure uninterrupted operation in public spaces.

• Retail Stores and Restaurants: The MSI Cubi A can be used to display product information, promotions, and menus in retail stores and restaurants.
• Educational Institutions: The Cubi A can be deployed in classrooms and hallways to display announcements, schedules, and educational content.
• Corporate Offices: The MSI Cubi A can be used to display company information, presentations, and employee announcements in corporate offices.

Educational Settings

The MSI Cubi A’s affordability and performance make it a suitable choice for educational settings. Its compact size allows for easy integration into classrooms and labs, while its reliable performance ensures smooth operation for educational applications.

• Computer Labs: The MSI Cubi A can be deployed in computer labs to provide students with access to powerful computing resources.
• Classroom Instruction: The Cubi A can be used by teachers to deliver interactive lessons and presentations.
• Distance Learning: The MSI Cubi A can be used to support distance learning initiatives by providing students with access to online resources and applications.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The MSI Cubi A offers a compelling blend of size, performance, and affordability, making it a strong contender for various computing needs. However, like any technology, it has its own set of strengths and limitations. This section delves into the key advantages and disadvantages of the MSI Cubi A, providing a balanced perspective to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your specific requirements.

Advantages

The MSI Cubi A’s compact design, powerful performance, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice for users seeking a small yet capable desktop computer.

• Compact Size: The MSI Cubi A’s diminutive footprint allows for flexible placement, making it ideal for tight spaces, small offices, or even home entertainment setups. Its portability also allows users to easily transport it between locations.
• Powerful Performance: Despite its compact size, the MSI Cubi A packs a punch with its Broadwell processor, capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and everyday productivity applications with ease. The integrated graphics also provide decent performance for casual gaming and multimedia playback.
• Affordability: Compared to other desktops with similar performance, the MSI Cubi A offers a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who need a powerful and reliable machine.

Disadvantages

While the MSI Cubi A boasts numerous advantages, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations, such as limited upgradeability and reliance on external peripherals.

• Limited Upgradeability: The MSI Cubi A’s compact design often restricts its upgradeability. Users may find it difficult to upgrade components like RAM, storage, or even the processor, limiting its longevity and future-proofing capabilities.
• Limited Expansion Options: The MSI Cubi A typically comes with a limited number of ports, requiring users to rely on external peripherals for connectivity. This can be a drawback for users who require extensive connectivity options or frequent device connections.
• Potential for Heat Issues: The compact design can sometimes lead to heat buildup, potentially impacting performance and longevity. Users may need to ensure adequate ventilation and consider using a cooling pad for optimal performance.

Advantages and Disadvantages Comparison

The following table provides a concise comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the MSI Cubi A:

Advantages	Disadvantages
Compact Size	Limited Upgradeability
Powerful Performance	Limited Expansion Options
Affordability	Potential for Heat Issues

Comparison with Competitors: Msi Cubi A Small Desktop That Runs On A Broadwell Processor

The MSI Cubi A faces stiff competition in the small desktop market, with various manufacturers offering similar form factors and features. Understanding the key differences between the MSI Cubi A and its competitors is crucial for making an informed purchase decision.

Key Competitors and Comparisons

To provide a comprehensive comparison, we’ll focus on three major competitors: the Intel NUC, the HP EliteDesk 800 G3, and the ASUS VivoMini VC65.

Feature	MSI Cubi A	Intel NUC	HP EliteDesk 800 G3	ASUS VivoMini VC65
Processor	Intel Core i5-5200U	Intel Core i7-8559U	Intel Core i5-7500T	Intel Core i5-8250U
RAM	Up to 16GB DDR3L	Up to 32GB DDR4	Up to 32GB DDR4	Up to 32GB DDR4
Storage	Up to 2.5″ HDD + mSATA SSD	Up to 1TB NVMe SSD	Up to 1TB HDD + 256GB SSD	Up to 1TB HDD + 512GB SSD
Graphics	Intel HD Graphics 5500	Intel UHD Graphics 620	Intel HD Graphics 630	Intel UHD Graphics 620
Connectivity	4x USB 3.0, 1x HDMI, 1x VGA, Gigabit Ethernet	2x USB 3.1 Gen 2, 2x USB 3.0, 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6	4x USB 3.0, 2x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet	4x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5
Form Factor	Mini-PC	Mini-PC	Mini-PC	Mini-PC
Price	Around $300-$400	Around $500-$800	Around $400-$600	Around $450-$700

The MSI Cubi A generally offers a more affordable price point compared to its competitors, particularly the Intel NUC. However, it falls behind in terms of processor performance, RAM capacity, and storage options. The HP EliteDesk 800 G3 and ASUS VivoMini VC65 provide a balance between performance and price, with slightly higher specifications and a more recent processor generation.

Performance Comparison

The MSI Cubi A’s Broadwell processor, while still capable for everyday tasks and light productivity, falls behind the newer Intel Core i5 and i7 processors found in its competitors. This results in noticeable performance differences in demanding applications, such as video editing or gaming.

The MSI Cubi A’s Broadwell processor offers decent performance for basic tasks, but it struggles to keep up with newer processors found in competing models.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The MSI Cubi A caters to a specific target audience with a focus on affordability and compact size. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize portability and minimal footprint. Ideal use cases include:

• Home users for basic tasks like browsing, email, and light office work.
• Small businesses for basic office tasks and digital signage.
• Students for homework, research, and light gaming.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The MSI Cubi A offers several advantages, including its compact size, affordability, and decent performance for basic tasks. However, its limitations include a less powerful processor, limited RAM and storage options, and lack of newer connectivity features.

User Reviews and Feedback

The MSI Cubi A has garnered a fair share of attention from users, leading to a collection of reviews and feedback that offer valuable insights into its strengths and weaknesses. These reviews provide a comprehensive understanding of the user experience with the MSI Cubi A, highlighting its real-world performance and user-friendliness.

User Experience Summary

Overall, the MSI Cubi A receives generally positive reviews from users, with many praising its compact size, quiet operation, and reliable performance. Users appreciate its ability to handle everyday tasks with ease, including web browsing, office productivity, and light gaming. However, some users have expressed concerns about its limited upgradeability and potential overheating issues under heavy workloads.

Common Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths:
• Compact and space-saving design
• Quiet operation, minimal noise
• Reliable performance for everyday tasks
• Affordable price point
• Good connectivity options
• Weaknesses:
• Limited upgradeability
• Potential for overheating under heavy workloads
• Limited storage capacity in some models
• No dedicated graphics card

User Testimonials and Reviews

“This little machine is a powerhouse for its size! It runs everything I need it to without a hitch. I love how quiet it is, and it’s so small it fits perfectly on my desk.” – John S.

“I’m impressed with the performance for the price. It’s perfect for my basic needs, and I haven’t had any issues with it so far. However, I wish it had more storage space.” – Sarah M.

“While it’s a great machine for everyday tasks, it struggles with demanding applications. I noticed some overheating issues when I tried to play some games.” – David L.

The MSI Cubi A, with its impressive combination of power, portability, and affordability, presents a compelling choice for anyone seeking a small desktop solution. Its Broadwell processor ensures smooth performance, while its compact design and versatile connectivity options make it adaptable to various needs and environments. Whether you’re looking for a home office companion, a digital signage solution, or a compact device for educational settings, the MSI Cubi A might just be the perfect fit.