MSI Cubi 5 12M NUC Mini PC Barebone System — Intel Core i5-1235U, WiFi 6, BT 5.3, Dual LAN

Small in footprint, big on capability—the MSI Cubi 5 12M is a true NUC-style mini PC barebone designed for modern living and working spaces. This compact powerhouse delivers desktop-like responsiveness without the desk clutter, making it an excellent choice for a home office, a living room media hub, or a portable storage companion. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1235U processor and outfitted with cutting-edge wireless tech, it brings fast performance, reliable connectivity, and flexible expansion to your setup. Because it’s a barebone system, you tailor RAM and storage to your exact needs, so you can create a nimble productivity box, a compact media center, or a lightweight workstation that travels with you. And with support for up to 8K resolution, this tiny machine is built to handle high-resolution content with ease, letting you enjoy cinematic visuals from the comfort of your sofa or during late-night creative sessions.

• Ultra-compact design with powerful performance: The Cubi 5 12M packs desktop-grade capability into a compact chassis, letting you multitask smoothly, stream HD or 4K content, and run productivity apps side-by-side. Its efficient power profile keeps energy consumption low while still delivering responsive everyday computing—perfect for a clutter-free home office or a discreet media workstation.
• Intel Core i5-1235U processor: Built on a 12th‑generation architecture, this CPU features multiple cores and threads to balance performance and efficiency. It handles everyday tasks, office software, light photo editing, and streaming with ease, while maintaining a cool, quiet operation in a small form factor.
• Connectivity you can rely on: With integrated WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, you’ll experience faster wireless speeds, improved range, and snappier device pairing. The Dual LAN configuration adds flexible networking options, enabling you to set up reliable wired connections or implement simple routing/segmentation for a home office or media center.
• 8K display support for immersive viewing: The Cubi 5 12M supports ultra-high-resolution content, so you can enjoy films, games, and professional media at up to 8K. Pair it with a capable display and you’ll experience exceptional detail, color fidelity, and a cinematic viewing experience in a compact package.
• Barebone flexibility and upgrade freedom: This is not a pre-configured system—RAM and storage are added by you. That means you can choose the exact capacity and speed you need, keep costs aligned with your budget, and upgrade later as your requirements evolve, all while maintaining a small footprint and clean setup.

Technical Details of MSI Cubi 5 12M

• Processor: Intel Core i5-1235U
• Memory: Not included (barebone system; supports user installable RAM per your selection)
• Storage: Not included (barebone system; internal drive or SSD/HDD to be installed by user)
• Wireless: WiFi 6
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3
• Networking: Dual LAN (two Ethernet connections available for wired networking scenarios)
• Video/Display: Supports up to 8K resolution for high-end media and presentation needs
• Form Factor: NUC-style mini PC barebone system designed for space-saving setups

How to install MSI Cubi 5 12M

Setting up the Cubi 5 12M is straightforward, thanks to its barebone design that invites you to customize the core components to your needs. Here are practical steps to get your system up and running with minimal hassle.

• Prepare RAM and storage: Determine the memory type and capacity supported by the Cubi 5 12M and choose a compatible RAM module. Select a solid-state drive (SSD) or hard drive that fits your performance goals and storage needs. Since this is a barebone, you’ll install these components yourself.
• Open the chassis and install components: Follow the user manual to safely open the chassis. Install the RAM modules firmly in their slots and mount the storage drive in the designated bay or slot. Ensure the components are seated properly and reassemble the enclosure securely.
• Connect prerequisites: Attach a monitor or display, power supply, keyboard, and mouse. If you plan to use wired networking, connect an Ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports. If you’ll rely on wireless, you’re ready to configure after boot.
• Power on and enter BIOS/UEFI: On first boot, access the BIOS/UEFI to verify memory recognized, configure boot order if you plan to install an operating system on the storage drive, and enable any preferred security or virtualization settings.
• Install the operating system and drivers: Install your preferred OS (Windows, Linux, etc.) onto the installed storage. After the OS is ready, install essential drivers for network, audio, and any peripherals. Update to the latest firmware if available for improved stability.
• Optimize and customize: Configure display output, power settings, and network preferences. Set up your user accounts, install productivity software, and tailor the Cubi 5 to your workflow. You now have a compact, capable computer ready for daily tasks.

Frequently asked questions

• What exactly comes with the MSI Cubi 5 12M? The product is a barebone system. RAM and storage are not included, and the operating system is not pre-installed. You’ll add your own memory, storage, and software to create a personalized, ready-to-use PC.
• Can I run an 8K display from this mini PC? Yes. The Cubi 5 12M supports up to 8K resolution, allowing you to enjoy high-resolution media and professional content when connected to a compatible 8K-capable monitor or TV with an appropriate video interface.
• What kind of connectivity does it offer? It includes WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 for modern wireless connectivity, plus Dual LAN ports for flexible wired networking. This makes it suitable for home offices, media setups, and small business environments where stable connections matter.
• Is this system portable or fixed? The Cubi 5 12M is a compact, portable mini PC that can be moved easily between rooms or taken to different locations. Because it’s a barebone, you’ll want to mount or place it in a suitable spot with access to power and any required peripherals.
• Do I need to buy cooling or extra hardware? The unit is designed to operate within its compact form factor with appropriate cooling provided in the chassis. Depending on your workload and the RAM/storage you install, you may want to ensure adequate airflow around the device to maintain optimal performance.