The world of mini desktops has witnessed a significant surge in popularity, with manufacturers like MSI and Lenovo offering compact, powerful, and energy-efficient solutions for various applications. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, specifications, and performance of two notable mini desktops: the MSI Cubi 5 and the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny.
Design and Build
Both the MSI Cubi 5 and the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny boast sleek, compact designs that make them perfect for space-constrained environments. The MSI Cubi 5 measures 4.7 inches wide, 4.1 inches deep, and 2.2 inches tall, while the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny comes in at 7.2 inches wide, 3.9 inches deep, and 1.4 inches tall.
The MSI Cubi 5 has a more angular design with a metallic finish, giving it a premium look and feel. The device is also VESA mountable, allowing users to attach it to the back of a monitor or wall for added convenience.
In contrast, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny features a more rounded design with a matte black finish, providing a subtle and professional appearance. Like the MSI Cubi 5, the ThinkCentre M75q Tiny is also VESA mountable, offering flexibility in terms of placement options.
Performance
Both mini desktops offer impressive performance capabilities, thanks to their powerful processors and ample memory. The MSI Cubi 5 comes equipped with up to an Intel Core i7-10510U processor, paired with up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and a range of storage options, including SSDs and HDDs.
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny, on the other hand, features up to an AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 3400GE processor, coupled with up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM and various storage configurations. While the AMD processor may not match the Intel Core i7 in terms of raw processing power, it provides excellent performance for general office applications and multitasking.
Connectivity and Expansion
In terms of connectivity, both devices offer a range of ports and options to cater to different needs. The MSI Cubi 5 features two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an HDMI output, a DisplayPort, and an Ethernet jack. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny also boasts an impressive array of ports, including four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, two DisplayPorts, and an Ethernet jack. It also features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring seamless wireless connections.
Power Consumption and Noise
As mini desktops are designed to be energy-efficient, both devices have relatively low power consumption. The MSI Cubi 5 has a maximum power consumption of around 65W, while the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny consumes up to 45W.
In terms of noise levels, both devices are remarkably quiet, thanks to their fanless or whisper-quiet cooling systems. The MSI Cubi 5 features a passive cooling system, ensuring silent operation, while the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny uses a low-noise fan that produces minimal sound during normal usage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the MSI Cubi 5 and the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny are excellent examples of mini desktops that offer impressive performance, compact designs, and energy efficiency. While the MSI Cubi 5 boasts more powerful processing capabilities and a wider range of storage options, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny provides excellent value for its price, with a robust feature set and reliable performance.
Ultimately, the choice between these two mini desktops will depend on your specific needs and requirements. If you prioritize raw processing power and advanced features, the MSI Cubi 5 may be the better option. However, if you're looking for a more affordable, yet still capable, solution for general office applications or home use, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q Tiny is definitely worth considering.
