MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG vs. Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Improvements almost everywhere

The business-focused MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG is now shipping to directly succeed last year's Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG model. Aside from the processor upgrade, the newer model brings many worthwhile hardware changes while maintaining the understated visual design.
Arguably the most notable change to the newer model is its much smaller size at almost 50 percent of the volume of the original. The size reduction entails no compromises to serviceability as internal components are even easier to access this time around. Port options have changed to include more USB-C and HDMI ports for expanded docking capabilities.
RAM is now also removable whereas it was soldered on the Cubi NUC 2MG. By supporting up to 128 GB instead of the usual 32 GB, the Cubi NUC 3MG can run more local tasks and virtual machines than most other mini PCs of the same size.
There are still a number of features we wish the Cubi NUC 3MG supported. A speaker, for example, would have made the model more versatile while the new External Power Switch Pin may not be useful for everyone. We recommend checking out our full review of the model to learn more about its advantages and disadvantages.
| Specification | Cubi NUC AI+ 3MG | Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Core Ultra 9 386H (up to 60 percent faster multi-thread performance) | Core Ultra 7 258V |
| RAM | Up to 128 GB (2x SODIMM) | Up to 32 GB (Soldered) |
| Ports | 2x USB-A 3x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4, Power Delivery, DisplayPort) 2x RJ-45 (2.5 Gbps) 1x Kensington Lock 2x HDMI 2.1 1x External Power Switch Pin | 4x USB-A 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4, Power Delivery, DisplayPort) 2x RJ-45 (2 Gbps) 1x Kensington Lock 1x HDMI 2.1 Micro SD reader |
| Dimensions (mm) | 37.5 x 119.6 x 115.2 | 50.1 x 135.6 x 132.5 |
| Weight (g) | 552 | 669 |







