MSI unveiled its latest mini-PC models, with the Copilot+ PC version of the Cubi NUC being a potential workplace desktop replacement.
MSI, a well-known brand among PC gamers for their value graphics cards and motherboards, has expanded its horizons with the introduction of mini PCs. At CES 2025, MSI unveiled the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG and AI 1UMG, compact mini PCs designed for AI-augmented productivity and general computing.
These new devices utilise Intel’s latest “Lunar Lake” and “Meteor Lake” Core Ultra processors, respectively. The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, priced at $949.99 on Amazon, boasts the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB solid-state drive. In contrast, the AI 1UMG can be configured with the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, which was also featured in Lenovo’s Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9).
Key Features and Specifications
| Feature | MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG | MSI Cubi NUC AI 1UMG | |--------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------| | Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 or 9 (Lunar Lake) with AI NPU | Intel Core Ultra (Meteor Lake) | | RAM | Up to 32GB DDR5 | Configurable, typically less than 2MG | | Storage | 1TB NVMe SSD | Configurable, SSD options | | Size/Volume | 0.826 liters | 0.51 liters | | Connectivity | Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, Dual 2.5G Ethernet | Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, Dual 2.5G Ethernet | | Wireless | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.x | | Operating System | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | | Special Features | Dedicated Copilot Button for AI functions, NPU for AI acceleration, quick-access fingerprint sensor | Detachable power button, VESA mount included | | Build | PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) materials, sustainable packaging | PCR materials, monitor-mountable design | | Form Factor | Mini cube, barebones form factor (storage/OS configurable) | Mini cube, highly compact |
The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Power and Sustainability
The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG targets heavy AI-centric tasks with a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9-288V processor featuring integrated Neural Processing Units (NPUs) for AI workloads, large fast memory (up to 32 GB), and advanced connectivity including Thunderbolt 4 and WiFi 6E. It includes a dedicated Copilot button to invoke AI-related productivity features with ease. The device is slightly larger but still very compact, focusing on high performance in a small chassis along with sustainability (PCR materials) and ease of use (fingerprint access, detachable power button).
The AI 1UMG: Versatility and Portability
The AI 1UMG is a smaller, lighter variant powered by slightly different “Meteor Lake” Intel Core Ultra processors, designed for similarly versatile productivity but with a smaller footprint (0.51 L vs. 0.826 L) and slightly fewer premium features, focusing on portability and attachability behind monitors with included VESA mounts.
Comparison to Similar Copilot+ PCs
MSI’s Cubi NUC AI+ line stands out with a combination of AI-specific hardware (NPU integration), dedicated AI control buttons, and sustainability efforts (use of recycled materials and eco-friendly packaging), which are not yet widespread in comparable mini PCs. The presence of dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity aligns MSI’s offerings with other high-end Copilot+ PCs, supporting robust wired and peripheral connections. Compared to other Copilot+ PCs, MSI’s Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG and AI 1UMG emphasize compactness with enterprise-grade capabilities and environmental responsibility. The barebones form factor allowing storage and OS customization is common in this segment, but MSI’s quick-access power button and fingerprint scanner add user convenience.
In summary, MSI's Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG represents a powerful, AI-optimized mini PC with strong connectivity and sustainable design, while the AI 1UMG is a smaller, versatile version catering to space-conscious users. Both are competitive in the Copilot+ PC market that focuses on AI integration and next-gen connectivity.
[1] MSI Press Release [2] Intel's Copilot+ PC Platform [3] Lunar Lake and Meteor Lake Processors [4] Best Buy Price for Cubi NUC AI 1UMG [5] Amazon Price for Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG
- These mini PCs from MSI, including the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG and AI 1UMG, run on Windows 11 software, leveraging its advanced features and capabilities.
- For gaming enthusiasts, these devices are compatible with Microsoft's Windows 11 operating system, providing an immersive gaming experience on a laptop or desktop gadget.
- The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, offered on Amazon, comes equipped with a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, suitable for handling intense software applications, such as Microsoft Office.
- MSI's Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, designed for heavy AI-centric tasks, boasts hardware support for AI workloads, similar to that found in high-end Microsoft Surface Studio desktop computers.
- These mini PCs from MSI, including the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG and AI 1UMG, are ergonomically designed, with features like a quick-access fingerprint sensor and a detachable power button, similar to the clean, modern design aesthetic of Microsoft's Edge web browser.
- When equipped with the latest Intel processors, like the ones featured in MSI's Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, these mini PCs can handle multiple gadgets and devices with ease, much like how Microsoft's Azure cloud services handle diverse technology requirements.
- For users seeking a compact, AI-powered, and environmentally friendly gadget, the MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG offers a balance between power, sustainability, and size, comparable to Microsoft's Surface Go 3 tablet in terms of portability and versatility.
