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10 Best Mini Pc For Plex Media Server 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

GMKtec Mini PC, Intel Twin Lake N150 (Upgraded N100), 16GB DDR4 RAM 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD, Desktop Computer 4K Dual HDMI/USB3.2/WiFi 6/BT5.2/2.5GbE RJ45 for Office, Business

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,308
Processor (CPU)
Memory (RAM)
Storage

Most important from
915 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Remarkable performance for the price, running games like Clone Hero and Raceroom better than expected.
Memory (RAM)
Easily expandable with straightforward upgrades to RAM and storage.
Storage
Easily expandable with straightforward upgrades to RAM and storage.
Form Factor and Design
Compact and quiet, making it perfect for limited spaces and low-noise environments.

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.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,308
Processor (CPU)
Memory (RAM)
Storage

Most important from
915 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Remarkable performance for the price, running games like Clone Hero and Raceroom better than expected.
Memory (RAM)
Easily expandable with straightforward upgrades to RAM and storage.
Storage
Easily expandable with straightforward upgrades to RAM and storage.
Form Factor and Design
Compact and quiet, making it perfect for limited spaces and low-noise environments.
#2

KAMRUI Mini Gaming PC, E3B 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 7430U Micro Desktop Computers (Max 4.3GHz,6C/12T, Beat 5650U), Small Computer Support WiFi 6, BT5.2, Triple Display for Office Home

Rating
9.6
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Operating System

Most important from
10 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Runs everything perfectly and exceeds expectations.
Connectivity
The 4K triple display feature is very useful for multitasking.
Operating System
Setup is super easy and the system runs smoothly.
Form Factor
Strikes a great balance between power and portability.

The KAMRUI Mini Gaming PC E3B is a compelling choice for those seeking a mini-pc for Plex media server functions. It boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with a speed of up to 4.3GHz, making it well-suited for handling media server tasks efficiently. With 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, it offers sufficient memory and storage space for most users, with the added flexibility of expanding storage up to 2TB and RAM to 64GB if needed.

Connectivity is a strong suit here, featuring WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, which ensure fast and stable wireless connections. The inclusion of multiple ports, including USB 3.2, HDMI, and DisplayPort, facilitates easy connection to various devices and displays, supporting up to three monitors for multitasking or media streaming setups.

This mini-PC also comes equipped with integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, capable of delivering 4K output, which is a boon for high-definition media streaming. Its compact form factor makes it easy to fit into any setup, particularly with the provided VESA bracket for mounting behind a monitor, helping maintain a tidy workspace.

However, some limitations exist. The mention of 'OS' as the operating system might imply that users need to install their preferred OS, which can be an additional step for those less tech-savvy. Also, while the integrated graphics are suitable for media streaming, they might not meet the needs of high-end gaming enthusiasts.

As a device for Plex media server use, this mini-PC is a solid option, offering a good blend of processing power, storage capabilities, and connectivity in a compact form. It’s ideal for users who value performance and flexibility in a sleek package, though those requiring out-of-the-box operating systems or advanced gaming capabilities might need to look elsewhere.

Rating
9.6
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Operating System

Most important from
10 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Runs everything perfectly and exceeds expectations.
Connectivity
The 4K triple display feature is very useful for multitasking.
Operating System
Setup is super easy and the system runs smoothly.
Form Factor
Strikes a great balance between power and portability.
#3

ROG NUC 760 Full System Mini PC with Intel 14th Gen Core Ultra 7 155H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Graphics, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe G4x4 NVMe SSD, Win 11, ARGB Lighting, with Vertical Stand Included

Rating
9.4
Connectivity
Graphics (GPU)

Most important from
33 reviews

Connectivity
Adding a Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, and Xbox controllers is key for living room use.
Graphics (GPU)
This is a perfect addition to the modern living room entertainment system, supporting modern PC games at high settings and streaming video and audio at the highest definitions available.

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.

Rating
9.4
Connectivity
Graphics (GPU)

Most important from
33 reviews

Connectivity
Adding a Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, and Xbox controllers is key for living room use.
Graphics (GPU)
This is a perfect addition to the modern living room entertainment system, supporting modern PC games at high settings and streaming video and audio at the highest definitions available.

Buying Guide for the Best Mini Pc For Plex Media Server

Choosing a mini PC for a Plex media server involves understanding your needs and matching them with the right specifications. Plex media servers require a balance of processing power, storage, and connectivity to ensure smooth streaming and management of your media library. Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting a mini PC for this purpose.
Processor (CPU)The processor is the brain of your mini PC and is crucial for handling the tasks required by Plex, such as transcoding media files. A more powerful CPU can handle multiple streams and higher resolution content more efficiently. For basic usage, a dual-core processor might suffice, but for more demanding tasks, look for quad-core or higher CPUs. If you plan to stream 4K content or have multiple users accessing the server simultaneously, opt for a higher-end processor.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is important for multitasking and ensuring smooth performance. Plex media server can benefit from having more RAM, especially if you are running other applications simultaneously. For basic usage, 4GB of RAM might be enough, but for better performance and future-proofing, consider 8GB or more. If you have a large media library or multiple users, more RAM will help keep everything running smoothly.
StorageStorage is where your media files will be stored. You can choose between SSD (Solid State Drive) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive). SSDs are faster and more reliable but typically offer less storage space for the price compared to HDDs. If you have a large media library, you might need a combination of both: an SSD for the operating system and frequently accessed files, and an HDD for bulk storage. Consider your media library size and future growth when deciding on storage capacity.
ConnectivityConnectivity options like USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet are important for connecting external drives, monitors, and ensuring a stable network connection. Ethernet is preferred for a stable and fast connection, especially for streaming high-resolution content. Ensure the mini PC has enough USB ports for your external drives and other peripherals. HDMI ports are necessary if you plan to connect the mini PC directly to a TV or monitor.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) can affect the ease of use and compatibility with Plex. Windows, macOS, and Linux are all viable options, but Windows tends to be the most user-friendly for beginners. Linux can offer more customization and control but may require more technical knowledge. Choose an OS that you are comfortable with and that supports Plex well.
Form FactorThe form factor refers to the size and design of the mini PC. Since you are looking for a mini PC, compactness is key. Ensure the mini PC is small enough to fit in your desired location but still has adequate cooling and ventilation to prevent overheating. Some mini PCs are designed to be mounted behind a monitor or TV, which can save space and keep your setup tidy.

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