The world of mini desktops has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with numerous manufacturers introducing compact and powerful devices that cater to various user needs. Two such products that have garnered attention are the Beelink SEi8 and the MSI Cubi 5. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, specifications, and performance of these mini desktops to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
The Beelink SEi8 boasts a sleek and compact design, measuring 115 x 120 x 46mm, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. The device is constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy, which provides excellent heat dissipation and durability. On the other hand, the MSI Cubi 5 has a slightly larger footprint, measuring 124 x 118 x 54mm. Although it's still compact, it may not be as discreet as the Beelink SEi8. The MSI Cubi 5 features a plastic and metal construction, which is sturdy but may not match the premium feel of the Beelink SEi8.
Processor and Performance
The Beelink SEi8 is powered by an Intel Core i7-8565U processor, which offers impressive performance for its size. With a clock speed of up to 4.6GHz, this processor can handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. In contrast, the MSI Cubi 5 comes with an Intel Core i5-10210U processor, which has a slightly lower clock speed of up to 4.2GHz. While it's still a capable processor, it may not match the Beelink SEi8's performance in resource-intensive tasks.
Memory and Storage
Both mini desktops offer ample memory and storage options. The Beelink SEi8 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing fast data transfer speeds and sufficient storage for most users. The MSI Cubi 5 also features 16GB of DDR4 RAM but offers a slightly larger 1TB HDD storage option. However, the slower hard drive may impact overall system performance compared to the Beelink SEi8's faster SSD.
Graphics and Display
The Beelink SEi8 features Intel UHD Graphics 620, which provides decent graphics performance for casual gaming and multimedia applications. The MSI Cubi 5, on the other hand, comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which offers slightly better performance. However, neither of these mini desktops is designed for demanding gaming or graphics-intensive tasks.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices offer a range of connectivity options, including USB-A ports, USB-C ports, HDMI, and Ethernet. The Beelink SEi8 has a total of 4 USB-A ports, while the MSI Cubi 5 has 3 USB-A ports. The Beelink SEi8 also features a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 3 support, which provides faster data transfer speeds and the ability to connect multiple displays.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Beelink SEi8 and the MSI Cubi 5 are excellent examples of mini desktops that offer impressive performance and features in compact packages. While the Beelink SEi8 has a slight edge in terms of processor performance, design, and storage speed, the MSI Cubi 5 offers more storage capacity and a slightly lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you're looking for a powerful mini desktop with a premium design and fast storage, the Beelink SEi8 may be the better option. However, if you prioritize storage capacity and a more affordable price, the MSI Cubi 5 is definitely worth considering.
