5 Best Msi Mini PCs with 1TB SSD, Compared
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Finding the best msi mini PCs with 1TB SSD requires comparing published specifications carefully. The MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB leads this list because it offers dual Ethernet and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. We compared 5 models strictly by their listed specs to ensure accuracy. Each entry meets the 1TB storage requirement and includes the RAM and processor details found on the product pages. This guide helps you decide which unit fits your specific workflow needs. You can review the dimensions, memory, and connectivity options below to make an informed choice.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB Best overall | Dual Ethernet and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity | Check price of MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB on Amazon |
| 2 | MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC Best budget | Office tasks and light media use | Check price of MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC on Amazon |
| 3 | MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC Best premium | multi-monitor office setups with fast networking | Check price of MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC on Amazon |
| 4 | MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC Best 8gb ram | Business users needing Windows 11 Pro and 1TB storage | Check price of MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC on Amazon |
| 5 | MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC Also great | Quad-display setups and dual 2.5G LAN needs | Check price of MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need dual Ethernet and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB It offers dual Ethernet ports and Thunderbolt 4 for balanced daily tasks and business use.
- You want the most compact model on the list MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC It measures 4.54 by 1.48 inches, making it the smallest chassis in this group.
- You require quad-display support and dual 2.5G LAN MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC It supports four displays and includes dual 2.5G LAN ports for reliable networking.
- You need Windows 11 Pro with 8GB RAM MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC It comes with Windows 11 Pro and 8GB RAM for standard office work.
Our 5 picks
MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB
Best for: Dual Ethernet and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- Storage
- 1TB SSD (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Intel Core 3 100U
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Ethernet Ports
- 2 x RJ45
- High-Speed Expansion
- Thunderbolt 4
View on Amazon: MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB Affiliate link
This MSI Cubi NUC mini PC pairs a 13th Gen Intel Core 3 100U processor with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It runs Windows 11 Pro and includes two RJ45 Ethernet ports plus Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. The compact chassis saves desk space while handling daily office tasks and media streaming. You get solid performance for light multitasking in a small form factor.
Pros
- 16GB high-bandwidth RAM for smooth multitasking
- 1TB M.2 SSD for fast data transfer
- Two RJ45 Ethernet ports for reliable networking
- Thunderbolt 4 support for high-speed expansion
- Windows 11 Pro operating system included
Cons
- Intel Core 3 processor is less powerful than Core 5 or Core 7 options
- WiFi 6 is standard, lacking the newer WiFi 7 found in comparable models
- Base clock speed of 1.2GHz is modest for heavy workloads
Good fit if
- You need dual Ethernet ports for home lab or office use
- You want Windows 11 Pro for business features
- You require Thunderbolt 4 for external storage or docks
Skip if
- You need the highest possible CPU performance for heavy editing
- You require the latest WiFi 7 connectivity
- You are looking for an Intel Core 5 or Core 7 processor
Verdict: MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB offers balanced specs for daily tasks and business use. It fits users who value dual Ethernet ports and Thunderbolt 4 over raw processing power.
MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC
Best for: Office tasks and light media use
- Storage
- 1TB SSD (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1255U
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
View on Amazon: MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC Affiliate link
This MSI Cubi 5 Premium desktop pairs a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It includes Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6 for fast connectivity. The system runs Windows 11 Pro and features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. It offers a compact form factor suitable for office tasks and home use. You get high performance in a small chassis with versatile port options.
Pros
- 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U with 10 cores
- 16GB RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Thunderbolt 4 port with USB-C
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Only 1TB SSD capacity compared to larger options
- 16GB RAM is not upgradeable in some configurations
- No dedicated graphics card for heavy gaming
Good fit if
- You need Thunderbolt 4 for fast external storage
- You want Windows 11 Pro for work
- You prefer a compact desktop with strong CPU power
Skip if
- You require more than 1TB of storage
- You need a dedicated graphics card for gaming
- You prefer the latest 13th Gen or newer processors
Verdict: MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC delivers solid performance with its i7-1255U and Thunderbolt 4. It fits users who need reliable office power and fast connectivity in a small space.
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC
Best for: multi-monitor office setups with fast networking
- Storage
- 1TB SSD (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 355
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Ethernet Ports
- Dual 2.5G
View on Amazon: MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC Affiliate link
The MSI Cubi NUC with a Core Ultra 7 355 processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM handles multitasking efficiently. It includes a 1TB SSD and supports up to four 4K displays via Thunderbolt 4. The compact 0.51L chassis mounts easily behind screens. This model runs Windows 11 Pro and features Wi-Fi 7 for fast connectivity. It suits users needing enterprise-grade ports and strong performance in a small footprint.
Pros
- Intel Core Ultra 7 355 processor for strong multitasking
- 16GB DDR5 memory for efficient workflow responsiveness
- Thunderbolt 4 supports up to four 4K displays
- Wi-Fi 7 and dual 2.5G LAN for fast networking
- 0.51L VESA-mountable design saves desk space
Cons
- Only 1.1 pounds weight adds bulk for portable setups
- No mention of built-in display or touch capability
- Windows 11 Pro may be unnecessary for basic home use
Good fit if
- You need to drive multiple high-resolution monitors
- You require Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless speeds
- You want a VESA-mountable PC for clean setups
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter, more portable form factor
- You only need basic web browsing and office apps
- You want a simpler Windows 11 Home experience
Verdict: MSI Cubi NUC Core Ultra 7 Mini PC delivers enterprise connectivity and multi-display support in a tiny chassis. It is ideal for professionals who need Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7 without sacrificing desk space.
MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC
Best for: Business users needing Windows 11 Pro and 1TB storage
- Storage
- 1TB SSD (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Intel Core 5-120U
- Installed RAM
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- Intel Graphics
View on Amazon: MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC Affiliate link
The MSI Cubi 5 Mini Desktop pairs an Intel Core 5-120U processor with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1TB SSD. It includes Windows 11 Pro and Wi-Fi 6E for reliable connectivity. Thunderbolt 4 support allows for high-speed data transfer and display output. This compact system suits users who need professional software features and ample storage for daily tasks without requiring heavy multitasking power.
Pros
- Intel Core 5-120U processor with 10 cores
- 1TB SSD for ample storage space
- Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
- Thunderbolt 4 port for fast connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking
Cons
- Only 8GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- Uses older DDR4 memory instead of DDR5
- Integrated Intel Graphics lacks dedicated power
Good fit if
- You need Windows 11 Pro for business tools
- You require 1TB of fast storage
- You want Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
Skip if
- You need more than 8GB of RAM
- You require dedicated graphics for gaming
- You prefer DDR5 memory speed
Verdict: MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC fits users who prioritize professional operating system features and large storage over maximum processing power. It is a solid choice for standard office work and media consumption.
MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC
Best for: Quad-display setups and dual 2.5G LAN needs
- Storage
- 1TB SSD (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Intel Core 5-120U
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Ethernet Ports
- Dual 2.5G LAN
- High-Speed Expansion
- Thunderbolt 4
View on Amazon: MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC Affiliate link
This MSI Cubi NUC model pairs an Intel Core 5-120U processor with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It includes WiFi 6E networking and Windows 11 Pro. The compact 1.97-inch chassis supports four displays and offers dual 2.5G LAN ports. It suits users needing strong multitasking power and reliable connectivity in a small footprint.
Pros
- Intel Core 5-120U processor with 10 cores
- 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage
- WiFi 6E and dual 2.5G LAN ports
- Supports up to four displays via HDMI and Thunderbolt 4
Cons
- Heavier at 4 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Lacks the latest WiFi 7 standard found in newer models
- No mention of built-in camera or microphone
Good fit if
- You need dual 2.5G LAN for network redundancy
- You require four simultaneous display outputs
- You want Windows 11 Pro included
Skip if
- You prioritize the newest WiFi 7 connectivity
- You need the lightest possible mini PC
- You prefer a processor with more than 10 cores
Verdict: MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC delivers solid performance with 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD for users who value dual 2.5G LAN and quad-display support. It fits professionals needing a reliable, compact workstation with Windows 11 Pro.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB | MSI Cubi 5 Premium i7 Mini PC | MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC | MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD Mini PC | MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core 3 100U | Intel Core i7-1255U | Intel Core Ultra 7 355 | Intel Core 5-120U | Intel Core 5-120U |
| Installed RAM | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB | 8GB | 16GB |
| Storage Capacity | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB |
| Memory Type | not stated | DDR4 | DDR5 | DDR4 | not stated |
| Graphics | not stated | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | not stated | Intel Graphics | not stated |
| Ethernet Ports | 2 x RJ45 | Dual 1GbE | Dual 2.5G | not stated | Dual 2.5G LAN |
| High-Speed Expansion | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Win 11 Pro |
| Memory | 16GB RAM | 16GB RAM | not stated | 8GB RAM | not stated |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Use | not stated | Home, Office, Gaming | not stated | Home, Office | not stated |
| Networking | not stated | not stated | not stated | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E |
| Dimensions | 5.34 × 5.22 × 1.9 inches | 4.88 × 4.88 × 2.11 inches | 4.71 × 4.54 × 1.48 inches | 4.88 × 4.88 × 2.11 inches | 5.34 × 5.22 × 1.97 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | 1.1 pounds | 1.3 pounds | 4 pounds |
| Size | 16GB RAM | 1TB SSD | 16GB RAM | 1TB SSD | not stated | 8GB | 1TB | not stated |
| Color | Black | i7-1255U | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | MSI Cubi Mini | Mini PC | CuNUCAI3MG018 | Cubi51MA665US | CUBINUC1M008 |
How to choose the right one
-
Check processor generation
Look at the specific CPU model to gauge performance. The MSI Cubi 5 Premium uses an i7-1255U, which provides strong power for office tasks. Newer chips generally handle multitasking better. If you need raw speed for heavy workloads, prioritize higher-tier processors. For basic browsing, older or lower-power chips may suffice. Always verify the exact model number in the specs rather than just the brand name.
-
Match RAM to tasks
Memory determines how many apps you can run at once. You will find models with 8GB or 16GB of RAM. The MSI Cubi 5 with 8GB is suitable for standard office work. If you keep many browser tabs or programs open, choose 16GB. The MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 offers 16GB for smoother performance. More RAM prevents slowdowns during heavy multitasking sessions.
-
Verify operating system
Windows 11 Pro offers features not found in Home editions. Several models here include Pro, such as the MSI Cubi 5 Premium. This is important for business users needing domain joining or advanced security. If you do not need these tools, standard Windows may be enough. Check the attributes list to confirm the OS version before buying to ensure compatibility with your work requirements.
-
Assess networking needs
Connectivity options vary significantly between models. The MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 supports Wi-Fi 6E and dual 2.5G LAN ports. This is ideal for fast file transfers and stable wireless connections. Other models may rely on standard Wi-Fi standards. If you work in a dense network environment or need wired redundancy, look for dual Ethernet ports. Check the networking specs to avoid surprises.
-
Consider physical dimensions
Size matters for desk space and mounting options. The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ is notably small, measuring 4.54 by 1.48 inches. It is the most compact choice for tight spaces. Larger models like the Cubi 5 measure around 4.88 inches square. Ensure the chassis fits your VESA mount or desk area. Measure your available space before comparing the width, height, and length in the specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which MSI mini PC is the smallest?
The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC is the most compact option. It measures 4.54 by 1.48 inches and weighs just 1.1 pounds. This tiny chassis fits easily on a desk without taking up much space. It also includes Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless connectivity.
Does any model support four monitors?
Yes, the MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 Mini PC supports quad-display setups. It is designed for professionals who need multiple screens for productivity. This model also features dual 2.5G LAN ports for reliable wired networking alongside its four-display capability.
Which model has the fastest Wi-Fi?
The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ Mini PC offers Wi-Fi 7. This is the latest wireless standard, providing faster speeds and better stability than older versions. It also includes Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer with compatible peripherals.
Is Windows 11 Pro included on these PCs?
Several models come with Windows 11 Pro installed. The MSI Cubi 5 Premium, MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD, and MSI Cubi NUC Core 5 all include this operating system. Windows 11 Pro provides additional features for business users and enhanced security.
Which PC has dual Ethernet ports?
The MSI Cubi NUC Core 3 16GB 1TB features dual Ethernet ports. This allows you to connect to two different networks simultaneously. It is ideal for users who need reliable connectivity for both internet access and local network tasks.
What is the difference between 8GB and 16GB RAM?
RAM determines how many applications you can run at once. The MSI Cubi 5 1TB SSD has 8GB, which is sufficient for standard office work. The other models have 16GB, allowing for heavier multitasking and smoother performance with multiple browser tabs or programs.
Does the MSI Cubi 5 Premium have Thunderbolt 4?
Yes, the MSI Cubi 5 Premium includes Thunderbolt 4. This port offers fast data transfer rates and supports high-resolution displays. It combines with the Intel Core i7-1255U processor to deliver solid performance for office tasks and light media use.