10 Best mini PC for plex media server 2026 in the United States

The MINISFORUM Mini PC AI X1 Pro is a very powerful mini computer equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 processor boasting 12 cores and speeds up to 5.1 GHz, making it more than capable of handling a Plex media server along with multiple other tasks without slowing down. Its 64GB of fast DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD offer plenty of space and speed for storing and streaming large media libraries smoothly. The PC supports up to four 4K displays and 8K resolution, which is great if you want crystal-clear video output or multitasking on multiple screens. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, WiFi 7 for fast wireless connections, Bluetooth 5.4, and multiple USB4 ports for quick data transfer or adding external devices.

The compact form factor and intelligent cooling system keep the device quiet and energy-efficient, even under heavy loads. It runs on Windows 11, which is user-friendly and compatible with Plex software. On the downside, this mini PC is quite advanced and might be more expensive than simpler models designed solely for media streaming. Its gaming-oriented graphics and AI assistant features are nice extras but not essential for a Plex server. Unless you also need a powerful machine for gaming or creative work, this might be more than you need. For those seeking a future-proof, high-performance mini PC that excels in multitasking, fast network speeds, and high-resolution video, the MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro represents a strong choice.

The ROG NUC 760 Full System Mini PC stands out as a powerful option for users looking to set up a Plex Media Server due to its robust specifications. At the heart of this mini PC is the latest Intel 14th Gen Core Ultra 7 processor paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics. This combination ensures smooth media streaming, transcoding, and even gaming capabilities if desired. With 16GB of DDR5 RAM, it offers ample memory for handling multiple streams simultaneously, which is crucial for a media server environment.

Storage is another highlight, featuring a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD that provides fast read/write speeds, essential for quick access to large media files. This ample storage capacity allows users to store a significant library of movies and shows without running out of space quickly.

The connectivity options are also impressive, with multiple USB ports and support for both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which ensures that it can connect to various devices and networks easily. The compact design, with a versatile form factor that allows for vertical or horizontal placement, makes it a space-saving addition to any setup. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the powerful CPU and GPU cater well to gaming and AI applications, they may be overkill if your primary use is just streaming media—leading to unnecessary energy consumption. Furthermore, the system comes pre-installed with Windows 11, which may not be the ideal operating system for every Plex server user looking for a lightweight setup.

Lastly, the RGB lighting and gaming-oriented features may appeal more to gamers than to those focused solely on media streaming. If you're looking for a straightforward Plex Media Server, there might be simpler and more energy-efficient options available. In essence, the ROG NUC 760 is an excellent choice for users who desire a multi-functional device that excels in both gaming and media streaming, but it might not be necessary for those solely interested in Plex.

The Dell OptiPlex 7020 MFF is a compact and powerful mini PC that fits well for use as a Plex media server, especially if you want strong performance in a small footprint. Its standout feature is the 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700T processor with 20 cores, which offers plenty of speed and multitasking power to handle streaming multiple media files smoothly. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM is more than enough for running Plex alongside other tasks without slowdowns. Storage is excellent with a 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD, providing fast read/write speeds and enough space for a large media library. Connectivity options like WiFi 6, Ethernet, USB-C, and multiple USB-A ports ensure you can easily connect to networks and external drives. The inclusion of DisplayPort and HDMI allows for direct monitor connections if needed.

Windows 11 Pro is the operating system, offering compatibility with Plex and other apps, though some users might prefer a lightweight Linux alternative for a dedicated media server. The mini form factor is ultra-small and quiet, making it easy to place anywhere without noise distraction or space issues. On the downside, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 is fine for video playback but not suited for heavy transcoding tasks that Plex sometimes requires. Also, this model is on the higher end price-wise compared to simpler Plex server setups.

If your Plex usage involves multiple simultaneous 4K streams or additional computing tasks, this PC will serve you well. However, if you only need basic streaming on a budget, it might be more than necessary. This Dell mini PC combines strong processing power, ample memory, and fast storage in a compact design, making it a solid choice for a versatile, high-performance Plex media server environment.