Just keep in mind that it’ll die sooner and consume more power than a NAS HDD.

If you don’t want to pay extra for a NAS HDD and external drive enclosure, you could use a consumer-grade external HDD like the WD Passport instead. Also, a NAS device makes it easy to back up multiple copies of your Plex library-that’s kinda what they’re made for. But if you aren’t comfortable using Linux or shoving components into a motherboard, then pre-built Windows 10 devices like the Lenovo ThinkCentre or HP Prodesk are probably your best bet.īut what if you want to run everything off of a NAS device? While NAS devices don’t have the horsepower or reusability of PCs, they’re incredibly power efficient and can help you achieve a clean setup. Intel NUC devices don’t come with RAM or an OS, which most enthusiasts prefer, as aftermarket RAM isn’t that expensive and Linux operating systems are free. Again, you can use any PC that fits the Plex hardware requirements, but mini PCs like the Intel NUC are the gold standard thanks to their small footprint, power efficiency, and low price. If you’re familiar with Linux, try using a distro without a GUI to save computer resources and maximize performance.Ī PC-based Plex server offers more flexibility and power than a Rasberry Pi, NVIDIA Shield, or NAS device, especially if said PC has upgradeable components. That said, Linux is ideal because it requires little maintenance and is very power efficient. Windows and macOS-based servers offer similar performance to Linux-based servers, so if you aren’t comfortable with Linux, don’t bother using it. Plex works on Windows, Linux, macOS, and dedicated NAS systems like the Synology Diskstation.

Of course, you can save a lot of money turning any old PC or laptop into a Plex server, but such a machine will take up a lot of space and use a lot of power. This computer should be small and power efficient, as it requires a wired internet connection and will run 24/7. The most important component of your Plex server is the computer that manages your media files and runs the Plex software. What Are the Plex Hardware Requirements?Ī Computer to Run the Plex Media Server Intel, NVIDIA.

A Computer to Run the Plex Media Server.

Plex media server for windows xp