10 Best mini PC for plex media server 2025 in the United States

The GMKtec Mini PC with the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor is a solid choice for a Plex media server. The upgraded N150 offers decent performance for everyday tasks, office work, and home entertainment, boasting a burst speed of up to 3.6GHz. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD, this mini PC ensures ample memory and fast storage, reducing boot and load times significantly when managing media files or running multiple applications simultaneously.

The dual HDMI outputs supporting 4K resolution at 60Hz make it ideal for streaming high-definition content on multiple displays. Additionally, the integrated Intel graphics coprocessor performs well for media playback, though it may struggle with more intensive graphical tasks. Connectivity is robust, featuring four USB 3.2 ports, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, which provides fast and reliable network speeds crucial for streaming media.

The compact form factor and upgraded cooling system are also noteworthy, ensuring the device runs quietly and remains cool under load. However, the integrated graphics might be a limiting factor for users requiring higher-end graphical processing, and the single memory slot could restrict future expandability. This mini PC is a capable and efficient device for those seeking a compact and powerful media server setup.

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 MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra is a very powerful mini PC capable of handling demanding tasks, making it a strong candidate for a Plex media server, especially when streaming high-resolution videos or managing large media libraries. Its Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with 24 cores and speeds up to 5.5 GHz delivers fast and smooth performance, which is beneficial for video transcoding—a key task for Plex servers. It supports up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM across four slots, providing ample memory for multitasking and ensuring stability when serving multiple users.

For storage, the device includes four M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots that allow up to 24TB of fast SSD space, ideal for storing extensive collections of movies, shows, and music while maintaining quick access times. Connectivity options are a significant strength, featuring dual 25GbE ports, 10GbE and 2.5GbE Ethernet, as well as Wi-Fi 7, which ensures smooth streaming and rapid transfers over both wired and wireless networks. Additionally, USB4 ports enable fast connections to external devices. The compact form factor typical of mini PCs is complemented by a quiet cooling system and a reliable power supply to maintain performance under heavy use.

One limitation is the integrated graphics, meaning there is no additional GPU power out of the box; however, a PCIe x16 slot is available if you choose to add a dedicated GPU later. Memory installation may be somewhat challenging due to slot placement, so users should ensure they purchase compatible RAM to prevent boot issues. This mini PC represents a robust and expandable solution with excellent networking and storage options for Plex media server needs, though it might be more advanced than necessary for simpler home setups.