How Much Does it Cost?
The MSI PRO MP242C was £119.99 but is now £99.99 and the MSI Cubi N JSL-053UK as tested is just £259.99. Overall, that’s bloody good value for money for this system, and you get a lot more for your money in terms of performance than I was expecting, despite how limiting the hardware appears on paper.
Overview
I think this is a cracking little system. Would I have it as the only PC in my house? Nope, I do need something that can game at 4K, render videos and such, but that’s just me. However, I have four PC users in this house, and we actually already have two low-powered systems that we use for homework, media consumption, etc. However, none of them is as compact, stylish and affordable as the MSI Cubi N. In terms of ergonomics, this thing is hard to beat.
It’s very quiet too, there is a small fan in there, but with the system on the back of the monitor, it hides the noise extremely well. The little Intel CPU is low-powered, so doesn’t get very hot anyway, even when pushing it pretty hard. That being said, it’s also very cost-effective to run. While modern PCs are more efficient, a full desktop is going to use more power than this little Cubi N for sure. If you’re putting it in a tighter space, a TV cabinet, in a cupboard for a little nook workstation, it’s perfect for the job.
The cost is hard to argue with, for what is in many ways similar to a chrome book or cheap laptop. However, it’s all modern hardware, so compared to some more cost-effective or similarly priced second-hand options, it’s efficient to run, and still supports the latest software, such as Windows 11. Of course, you don’t have to buy this monitor either, something larger, an old TV or whatever, it’s all good. However, combined, I think the two make a great pairing.
The only thing I can fault is the monitor speakers, they’re pretty quiet even for a monitor. Hardly a deal breaker at this price though, as the monitor itself is lovely. However, if you are pairing it with the Cubi N and plan to consume some media, headphones or speakers are recommended.
Should I Buy One?
Can’t recommend it enough, for adding an extra PC to your family or workspace, it’s a great setup. The specifications may look weak, but it’s a well-balanced system overall. For social media, streaming a movie, playing some games, or actually bothering to do your work, I really can’t fault it. I’d replace my compact PCs in the spare office spaces at home with this quite happily.
