10 Best Synology For Plex 2025 in the United States

The Synology DS1821+ 8-Bay Diskstation NAS is a powerful option for anyone looking to store and stream large amounts of media using Plex. With its AMD Ryzen quad-core processor, it offers solid performance for multitasking, making it suitable for file sharing, virtualization, and particularly multimedia streaming. The 8-bay capacity allows for significant storage (up to 32TB with the included drives), which is great for users with extensive media libraries. The addition of dual M.2 NVMe slots means you can boost its performance further by adding SSD cache, making access to frequently used files faster.

One of the standout features is its sophisticated software, which provides a range of applications for backups and streaming, enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, its expandable storage capability—allowing connection to two DX517 expansion units—provides flexibility for future needs.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the device is robust, its initial setup might be complex for someone less familiar with NAS systems. Additionally, the 4 GB of RAM may not be sufficient for heavy multitasking or for users with very demanding applications, although it can be expanded. The mechanical hard drives included run at 5400 RPM, which is decent but slower compared to SSDs, potentially resulting in slower read and write speeds, especially under heavy loads.

For users focused primarily on Plex media streaming, the DS1821+ performs well but may require additional RAM for optimal performance in larger households or heavy usage scenarios. It’s an excellent choice for those needing reliable storage and streaming capabilities but could be better suited for users willing to invest time in its setup and configuration.

The Synology RackStation RS820+ is a solid choice for those seeking a compact, rack-mounted NAS server, particularly for small businesses or remote offices. With an Intel Atom C3538 quad-core CPU and 18GB of DDR4 RAM, it provides decent performance for media streaming and file management. The 16TB storage capacity, spread across 4 drive bays, allows for significant data storage, making it suitable for Plex users who have extensive media libraries.

One of the standout features is the Synology DSM operating system, which is user-friendly and offers a desktop-like experience. This includes helpful functionalities like iSCSI Target, snapshot replication for backups, and robust security tools. Moreover, the inclusion of multiple network connectivity options, including four 1GbE LAN ports, supports link aggregation and failover, enhancing reliability.

The server does require installation of the hard drives and memory upgrades, which may not be ideal for less tech-savvy users. While the performance is generally good, some users may find the Intel Atom processor a bit limited for heavy transcoding needs, particularly if multiple streams are involved simultaneously. The RS820+ is a capable NAS for Plex when set up correctly, especially for users who prefer a rack-mounted solution with ample storage. Potential buyers should weigh the installation requirements and the processing limitations when considering their specific media streaming demands.