MSI has announced two new additions to its compact desktop portfolio, introducing the Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG-024JP and Cubi 5 1MA-656JP for the Japanese market. Both systems are scheduled to launch on June 18 and focus on productivity, business workloads, and multi-display environments while maintaining extremely compact form factors. The flagship model, the Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG-024JP, is built around Intel's Core Ultra 7 355 processor and qualifies as a Copilot+ PC. MSI pairs the processor with 16GB of DDR5 memory and a 512GB NVMe SSD. The system features extensive connectivity, including dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and Thunderbolt 4. One of the more notable features of the Cubi NUC AI+ is its ability to support up to four displays simultaneously despite its compact dimensions of just 119.6 x 115.2 x 37.5 mm. The mini PC weighs approximately 0.5 kg and ships with Windows 11 Pro. Power is supplied through a 120W external adapter.
MSI is also introducing the Cubi 5 1MA-656JP, a more mainstream-oriented system powered by Intel's Core 5 120U processor. It includes 16GB of DDR4 memory in a dual-channel configuration and a 512GB NVMe SSD. Connectivity remains strong with one 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, one Gigabit Ethernet port, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Thunderbolt 4 support. The Cubi 5 supports up to three displays simultaneously and ships with Windows 11 Home. Measuring 124 x 124 x 53.7 mm and weighing approximately 0.6 kg, it remains suitable for space-constrained workspaces, digital signage applications, and home office deployments. Both systems incorporate MSI's Power Link functionality. When connected to compatible MSI displays, users can power the PC on or off directly using the monitor's power button. MSI also includes a power switch extension cable, providing easier access when the mini PC is mounted behind a monitor or installed in locations where the built-in power button may be difficult to reach. The launch highlights the continued evolution of mini PCs as viable desktop alternatives. Features such as Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, multi-gigabit networking, and support for multiple displays are increasingly common in systems occupying only a fraction of the space of a traditional desktop PC.
| Specification | Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG-024JP | Cubi 5 1MA-656JP |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 355 | Intel Core 5 120U |
| Memory | 16GB DDR5 | 16GB DDR4 (2x8GB) |
| Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD | 512GB NVMe SSD |
| Ethernet | Dual 2.5GbE | 1x 2.5GbE + 1x GbE |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Thunderbolt | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 4 |
| Display Support | Up to 4 Displays | Up to 3 Displays |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home |
| Power Adapter | 120W | 65W |
| Weight | 0.5 kg | 0.6 kg |
Source: MSI