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

The MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro-370 Mini PC is a powerful choice for running a Plex media server thanks to its high-performance AMD Ryzen 9 HX 370 processor, which features 12 cores and 24 threads. This means it can handle multiple streaming tasks and media transcodes efficiently, even for demanding formats or several users at once. Its 96GB of DDR5 RAM is more than enough for smooth operation, and the 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD provides fast storage access, with options to expand up to 12TB, which is great for growing media libraries.

Connectivity is a strong point here, with dual 2.5G LAN ports and support for the new Wi-Fi 7 standard, enabling fast and stable wired or wireless connections—important for streaming high-quality video without buffering. The inclusion of multiple video outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB4) is more than most Plex users need but could be handy if you want to use the PC for other tasks or connect multiple monitors.

The compact mini PC form factor saves space and is easy to fit into a home theater setup. The operating system requires users to install and configure Plex themselves, which might need some technical comfort. While the integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics are strong for general use, they are not essential for a Plex server but could help if you want to use the PC for light gaming or media editing. This mini PC offers excellent processing power, generous RAM, and flexible storage and connectivity options, making it well suited for a Plex media server and other demanding tasks, though it might be more than necessary for basic media streaming and require some initial setup effort.

The Beelink SER8 Mini PC is an excellent choice for setting up a Plex media server that can manage demanding tasks beyond simple streaming. It is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor featuring 8 cores and 16 threads, providing ample power to transcode multiple streams seamlessly or run other applications alongside Plex. The device includes 64GB of fast DDR5 RAM and a spacious 2TB NVMe SSD, offering sufficient memory and storage for large media libraries and quick file access.

Its integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics support 4K video playback at up to 144Hz, delivering crisp, high-quality visuals across multiple displays. Connectivity options include a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for smooth network streaming, WiFi 6 for fast wireless connections, Bluetooth 5.2, and a variety of USB ports and video outputs that support triple monitors. The compact mini PC design ensures it remains small and quiet, aided by an efficient cooling system, making it suitable for living rooms or offices.

Running Windows 11 Pro offers flexibility with software choices, although some setup might be needed for users less familiar with PC configurations. While the mini PC is powerful and well-equipped, its price and advanced features may exceed the needs of basic Plex users. The integrated graphics handle media playback effectively but are not designed for heavy gaming or GPU-intensive tasks. This mini PC is ideal for users seeking a versatile and capable Plex server that can multitask and smoothly handle 4K streaming in scenarios where connectivity and performance are important.

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.