PCBuilder CUBE Mini PC Review and Buying Guide
The PCBUiLDER CUBE-R5-3500 Mini PC (Part Number PCB_CUBE_3500U16GB_OFFICE) is engineered to deliver full desktop performance within a footprint that fits anywhere. Designed for professionals who need reliability without the bulk, this system handles office productivity, retail point-of-sale operations, and digital signage displays with ease. The compact chassis houses a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor paired with Radeon Vega graphics, ensuring smooth multitasking even when running multiple applications simultaneously.
This mini PC combines high-speed computing with modern connectivity to create an ideal workspace solution. It comes pre-installed with Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for enhanced security and productivity tools. The unit features a sleek silver design that supports VESA mounting, allowing users to hide the computer behind a monitor for a clean, cable-free desk setup. With dual display support via HDMI and DisplayPort, it enables users to extend their workspace or mirror content for presentations effortlessly.
Performance and Design Highlights
At the heart of this machine lies the AMD Ryzen 5 3500U mobile processor, which offers four cores and eight threads capable of boosting speeds up to 3.70GHz. This architecture ensures that data-intensive tasks are handled quickly without lag. The system is equipped with 16GB of DDR4 memory running at 3200MHz, providing ample room for web browsing, document editing, and light creative work. Storage is managed by a fast 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD, which significantly reduces boot times and application load speeds compared to traditional hard drives.
Beyond raw power, connectivity plays a major role in the user experience. The CUBE model includes Wi-Fi 6 capabilities for stable wireless internet connections and Bluetooth 5.0 for pairing peripherals like headphones or mice. Video output is handled by Radeon Vega 8 integrated graphics, supporting crisp visuals on up to two external displays simultaneously. Whether you are connecting a 4K monitor at 30Hz via HDMI or utilizing the DisplayPort for smoother refresh rates, the visual fidelity remains sharp and clear.
The physical build quality focuses on durability and space efficiency. Constructed from high-grade PC and ABS materials, the unit weighs only 550 grams while maintaining a robust structure. It operates quietly within a temperature range of 0degrees C to 40degrees C, making it suitable for office environments or retail counters where noise reduction is valued. Security features include a Kensington lock slot to prevent theft in public spaces.
The following details outline the core components and connectivity options available on this model:
The port selection is comprehensive, catering to various peripheral needs. On the front panel, you will find a combo audio jack, a USB Type-C port supporting data transfer up to 5Gbps, and two additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The rear of the unit houses the DC power input, an HDMI 1.4 port capable of 4K resolution at 30Hz, a DisplayPort 1.4 for higher refresh rates, another Type-C port supporting Power Delivery alongside USB 2.0 data, two legacy USB 2.0 ports, and an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet jack.
What's in the box
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Specifications | |
| Product Code | PCB_CUBE_3500U16GB_OFFICE |
| Operating System Installed | Windows 11 Pro |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 3500U (4 cores/8 threads, 4MB cache up to 3.70GHz) |
| GPU | Radeon Vega 8 Graphics |
| Memory Slots | 2x Dual-channel DDR4 SO-DIMM (4GB up to 64GB@2400MT/s) |
| Installed Memory | 16GB 3200MHz DDR4 SODIMM (2 x 8GB) |
| Storage Slots | 1x M.2 2280 PCIE3.0x4 (SSD) Not Support SATA |
| Installed Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD |
| Wireless | LAN Wi-Fi 5 (Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) |
| Bluetooth | V5.0 |
| Ports (front) | 1x Audio, 3.5mm Combo audio jack, CTIA |
| 1x Type-C (Data only USB3.0 5Gbps) | |
| 1x Power button, with LED | |
| 2x USB3.2 Gen 1 (up to 5 Gbps) | |
| Ports (back) | 1x DC power |
| 1x HDMI 1.4 3840x2160 (4K@30Hz) | |
| 1x DP 1.4 3840x2160 (4K@60Hz) | |
| 1x Type-C (PD+USB2.0 data) | |
| 2x USB2.0 | |
| 1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (1Gbps) | |
| VESA Mount | Yes |
| AC Input | 65W/19V/3.42A , 5.5*2.5mm |
| Total Draw Power (TDP) | 15W |
| Kensington Lock Slot | Yes |
| Operating System Support | Windows & Linux |
| Colour | Silver |
| Material | PC & ABS |
| Operating Temperature | 0degreesC to 40degreesC |
| Product Dimensions | 11.2 x 11.2 x 3.8 cm |
| Product Weight | 550g |
Can I connect multiple monitors to this Mini PC? Yes, the PCBUiLDER CUBE supports connecting up to 2 displays simultaneously using the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. While both ports can handle 4K resolution, note that the HDMI port runs at 30Hz while the DisplayPort supports a smoother 60Hz refresh rate.
Is the RAM upgradeable if I need more storage capacity later? This Mini PC comes with 16GB of DDR4 memory installed, but it features 2 dual-channel slots that allow for upgrades up to 64GB. The system supports SO-DIMM modules running at speeds up to 3200MHz.
Does this unit include a power supply or mounting hardware? The package includes the Mini PC, an AC adapter with specific 19V/65W requirements, and a VESA mounting bracket. This allows you to securely mount the silver PC behind a monitor for a clean, cable-free setup.
Can I install Linux or change the operating system? Absolutely. Although it ships with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, the hardware is fully compatible with Linux operating systems as well, giving you flexibility to choose your preferred software environment.
What connectivity options are available for wireless networking and peripherals? You can stay connected via built-in Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 5.0. For wired connections, there is a Gigabit Ethernet port, along with multiple USB ports including Type-C data-only ports on the front and rear for fast data transfer speeds.
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