If you’re planning to set up a Plex server in 2026, choosing the right mini PC is essential for smooth streaming. With various options available, you need to take into account performance, storage, and transcoding capabilities. From powerful workstations to compact designs, there’s a mini PC for every need. Let’s explore the top picks that can elevate your media experience and guarantee seamless playback. Your Plex server deserves the best, and the choices ahead might just surprise you.

GMKtec Mini PC (Intel Twin Lake N150, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD)

If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful solution for your Plex server, the GMKtec Mini PC with its Intel Twin Lake N150 processor is an excellent choice. With four cores and a burst speed of up to 3.6GHz, it handles routine tasks and home entertainment effortlessly. The 16GB DDR4 RAM enhances speed, while the 512GB SSD guarantees quick boot times and smooth multitasking. Dual HDMI ports support 4K playback, perfect for your home theater setup. Plus, with robust connectivity options like WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, you can easily connect to multiple devices without any hassle.

Best For: Those seeking a compact and powerful mini PC for routine tasks, home entertainment, and Plex server applications.

Pros:

• High performance with Intel Twin Lake N150 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking and quick responsiveness.
• Dual HDMI ports support 4K video playback, making it ideal for home theater setups.
• Rich connectivity options including WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless device integration.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options due to its compact design, which may restrict future enhancements.
• May not be suitable for demanding gaming or high-end graphic design tasks.
• The 1-year warranty may be shorter compared to some competitors that offer longer coverage.

KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC (AMD Ryzen 4300U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)

The KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC is an excellent choice for users who need a powerful yet compact solution for running a Plex server. With its AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, you’ll enjoy impressive performance for HD video streaming and multitasking. The 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide ample memory and fast storage, ensuring smooth operation. You can connect up to three 4K displays, making it perfect for a media-rich environment. Plus, with versatile connectivity options like USB3.2 Gen2 and Gigabit LAN, you’ll stay productive. Its compact design and quiet cooling system make it a great fit for any setup.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and powerful mini PC for HD video streaming, multitasking, and running a Plex server.

Pros:

• Compact design allows for easy placement in any workspace and compatibility with VESA mounts.
• Impressive performance with AMD Ryzen 4300U and 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking and HD video editing.
• Supports triple 4K displays, enhancing multimedia experiences and productivity.

Cons:

• Limited to integrated graphics, which may not meet the needs of high-end gaming.
• Maximum storage capacity is dependent on additional purchases for extra RAM and SSDs.
• Cooling system, while improved, may still produce noise under heavy loads.

Beelink Me Mini PC NAS with Intel N95 CPU and 12GB RAM

For those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for their Plex server, the Beelink Me Mini PC stands out with its Intel N95 CPU and 12GB of RAM. This mini PC features four cores, a max turbo frequency of 3.4GHz, and efficient Intel UHD Graphics. With 1TB PCIe SSD storage and expandable options up to 24TB, you can store thousands of movies and songs. Dual 2.5G LAN ports and WiFi 6 guarantee fast connectivity for smooth 4K streaming. Plus, its compact design and whisper-quiet operation make it perfect for any environment, allowing for 24/7 reliability.

Best For: Those looking for a compact and efficient mini PC solution for their Plex server or multimedia storage needs.

Pros:

• High performance: Equipped with an Intel N95 CPU and 12GB RAM, providing efficient multitasking and processing power.
• Expandable storage: Offers 1TB SSD with options to expand up to 24TB, accommodating vast media libraries.
• Fast connectivity: Dual 2.5G LAN ports and WiFi 6 ensure seamless streaming and data transfer.

Cons:

• Limited graphics performance: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
• Compact size limitations: The small form factor might restrict upgrade options beyond storage.
• Noise level: While whisper-quiet, the fan may still produce noticeable sound in very quiet environments.

GMKtec Mini PC Workstation with Intel Core i9 13900HK

Designed for power users and professionals alike, the GMKtec Mini PC Workstation with Intel Core i9 13900HK delivers exceptional performance with its 14-core processor, capable of reaching speeds up to 5.4GHz. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, you’ll experience lightning-fast multitasking and ample storage. Its quad-screen 8K display support guarantees stunning visuals, perfect for detailed work. Plus, the versatile connectivity options, including a 2.5G Ethernet port and WiFi 6, keep you connected seamlessly. With a one-year warranty and dedicated support, you’ll have peace of mind while tackling your most demanding tasks.

Best For: Power users and professionals seeking a high-performance mini PC for demanding tasks and multi-screen setups.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor and 32GB DDR5 RAM for fast multitasking and processing.
• Quad-Screen Support: Capable of supporting up to 8K display across four screens, ideal for detailed visual work.
• Versatile Connectivity: Features a range of ports including 2.5G Ethernet and WiFi 6 for seamless wired and wireless connections.

Cons:

• Price Point: Higher cost compared to standard mini PCs, which may not be budget-friendly for all users.
• Limited Warranty: The one-year limited warranty may be shorter than what some users expect for high-end devices.
• Size and Portability: Although it’s a mini PC, its performance specs may attract users seeking stationary setups rather than portable solutions.

Beelink EQ14 Mini PC (Intel Twin Lake N150, 16GB DDR4, 500GB NVMe SSD)

Looking for a powerful yet compact solution for your Plex server needs? The Beelink EQ14 Mini PC is your answer. Featuring the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, it delivers impressive performance with 4 cores and speeds up to 3.6GHz. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a speedy 500GB NVMe SSD, you’ll enjoy quick load times and ample storage for your media. Plus, its dual LAN and WiFi 6 guarantee lag-free streaming. The cooling system keeps it quiet and stable, making it perfect for home entertainment. Compatible with Linux and equipped with Intel Unison, it’s versatile for any task you throw at it.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and powerful mini PC for media streaming, light gaming, and productivity tasks.

Pros:

• Impressive performance with the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, 16GB RAM, and 500GB NVMe SSD for quick load times and multitasking.
• Versatile connectivity options including dual LAN, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless streaming and connections to multiple devices.
• Quiet cooling system ensures stable operation without noisy distractions, ideal for home entertainment setups.

Cons:

• Limited graphics capabilities for high-end gaming, as it relies on Intel UHD Graphics.
• Expandable storage options require additional investments in M.2 SSDs for users needing more space.
• Compatibility may be limited for some software applications that are not optimized for Linux or Ubuntu.

Beelink Mini PC S12 (Intel 12th N95, 8GB DDR4, 256GB SSD)

The Beelink Mini PC S12 stands out as an excellent choice for streaming enthusiasts and casual users seeking a compact yet powerful Plex server solution. Powered by the Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N95, it delivers impressive performance with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD, expandable up to 2TB. Its dual HDMI ports support 4K@60Hz dual displays, ensuring smooth streaming. Weighing just 9.9 ounces, this mini PC is easily portable. With Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2, you’ll enjoy seamless connectivity. Plus, its versatile design allows hard drive upgrades and a tidy VESA mount setup for your workspace.

Best For: The Beelink Mini PC S12 is best for streaming enthusiasts and casual users looking for a compact and powerful computing solution.

Pros:

• Compact design with a detachable base for easy hard drive upgrades.
• Dual HDMI ports supporting 4K@60Hz dual displays for enhanced streaming experience.
• Versatile connectivity options including Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2.

Cons:

• Limited built-in storage of 256GB may require expansion for heavy users.
• Power consumption of 25W may be higher than some ultra-efficient models.
• No USB-C ports available for modern device compatibility.

wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Gaming Mini PC

For those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for their Plex server needs, the wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Gaming Mini PC stands out with its impressive multitasking capabilities. With a quad-core processor and 16GB of RAM (upgradable to 32GB), you’ll handle multiple streams effortlessly. The 512GB NVMe SSD guarantees quick data access for smooth playback. Plus, it supports triple-screen setup with dual HDMI and USB-C outputs—perfect for multitasking. Its compact design, energy-saving features, and silent cooling make it ideal for home offices and media centers. Additionally, you’ll enjoy 24/7 customer support for any queries or issues.

Best For: Individuals seeking a compact and powerful mini PC for home office tasks, multimedia streaming, and casual gaming.

Pros:

• Impressive multitasking capabilities with AMD Ryzen 5 3550H and 16GB RAM, upgradable to 32GB.
• Supports triple-screen setup with dual HDMI and USB-C outputs for efficient multi-window applications.
• Compact and energy-efficient design with silent cooling, ideal for any workspace.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options for graphics performance, relying on integrated Radeon Vega 8.
• Storage capacity might be insufficient for users with extensive media libraries, though it can be expanded.
• Potential thermal throttling during heavy gaming sessions due to its compact form factor.

Dell Optiplex 3040 Micro Computer Mini Tower PC (Renewed)

If you’re in search of a compact and powerful solution for your Plex server, the Dell Optiplex 3040 Micro Computer Mini Tower PC (Renewed) stands out with its Intel Quad Core i5-6500T processor. It comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD, ensuring fast boot speeds and quick access to your media library. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, it maximizes your desktop experience right out of the box. This certified refurbished unit has undergone rigorous testing, so you can trust its reliability. Plus, it includes a minimum 90-day warranty for added peace of mind.

Best For: Individuals seeking a reliable and compact solution for running a Plex server or general computing tasks.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Quad Core i5-6500T processor for efficient multitasking.
• Fast Storage: Features a 256GB SSD that ensures quick boot times and rapid access to applications and files.
• Ready to Use: Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro and thoroughly tested for quality assurance, it’s ready to go right out of the box.

Cons:

• Limited Upgrade Options: Being a compact micro tower may restrict some hardware upgrades compared to larger systems.
• Refurbished Condition: As a renewed product, it may show minor cosmetic imperfections.
• RAM Limitations: With only 8GB of RAM, it may not be sufficient for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.

GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC (Ryzen 7 5825U)

Designed for those who demand high performance in a compact form, the GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC with the Ryzen 7 5825U is an excellent choice for a Plex server. With its 8 cores and 16 threads, you’ll experience impressive speeds, thanks to the turbo boost of up to 4.50GHz. The 32GB DDR4 RAM, expandable to 64GB, guarantees smooth multitasking, while the 1TB SSD provides ample storage. Plus, its triple 4K display support makes it perfect for UHD video streaming. Enjoy rapid connectivity with WiFi 6E and dual 2.5GbE Ethernet, making this mini PC a robust option for your media needs.

Best For: The GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC is best for gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking high-performance computing in a compact design.

Pros:

• High Performance: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, offering impressive speeds and multitasking capabilities.
• Expandable Storage and RAM: Comes with 1TB SSD and 32GB RAM, both expandable, allowing for future upgrades.
• Triple 4K Display Support: Ideal for UHD video editing and streaming across multiple monitors.

Cons:

• Limited Warranty: Only a 1-year limited warranty, which may not be sufficient for some users.
• Compact Size Limitations: While it offers powerful performance, the small form factor may limit certain upgrades or expansions.
• Cooling Needs: High-performance components may require adequate cooling solutions, potentially leading to increased noise.

GMKtec Mini PC N150 (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)

The GMKtec Mini PC N150, equipped with 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD, stands out as an excellent choice for anyone looking to run a Plex server efficiently. It features an Intel Twin Lake N150 processor with 4 cores, reaching burst speeds of up to 3.6GHz, ensuring smooth performance for your media needs. With dual HDMI 2.0 ports, you can enjoy 4K video playback across two displays. Its robust connectivity options, including WiFi 6 and multiple USB 3.2 ports, enhance versatility. Plus, the upgraded cooling system keeps noise to a minimum, making it perfect for home entertainment setups.

Best For: The GMKtec Mini PC N150 is best for users seeking a compact, high-performance solution for media consumption, office tasks, and light server applications.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with a 4-core Intel Twin Lake N150 processor for efficient multitasking and smooth media playback.
• Ample Storage: Comes with a 1TB SSD for fast boot times and quick file transfers, making it ideal for storing large media libraries.
• Versatile Connectivity: Multiple USB 3.2 ports and dual HDMI 2.0 ports support various devices and enable dual 4K display setups.

Cons:

• Limited Gaming Capability: While suitable for routine tasks, it may not handle demanding gaming applications effectively.
• No Dedicated Graphics Card: Relies on integrated graphics, which may limit performance for graphics-intensive tasks.
• Single Year Warranty: The 1-year limited warranty may not provide enough coverage for long-term users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for Plex Server

When choosing a mini PC for your Plex server, you need to reflect on several key factors. Processor performance, memory and storage capacity, and connectivity options will greatly impact your streaming experience. Don’t forget to contemplate the cooling system and graphics support, as they’ll also affect how well your server runs.

Processor Performance Requirements

Choosing the right processor for your mini PC as a Plex server is vital for ideal performance, especially if you’re planning to stream or transcode multiple videos simultaneously. Look for a processor with at least 4 cores and 4 threads to handle these tasks efficiently. A base speed around 2.0GHz and a burst speed up to 3.6GHz can greatly enhance performance during peak loads. Opt for robust architectures like AMD’s Ryzen or Intel’s latest generations to guarantee compatibility with modern codecs. Integrated graphics capabilities are important, especially for 4K playback, as they lighten the CPU’s load. Finally, consider a thermal design power (TDP) between 15-28W for an effective balance of performance, energy efficiency, and cooling.

Memory and Storage Capacity

A minimum of 16GB of RAM is essential for your mini PC if you’re running a Plex server, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient streaming of multiple videos at once. Storage capacity is equally important; aim for at least 512GB of SSD storage. This will accommodate your high-definition media library and provide quick access times. Additionally, consider the option to expand storage, as a robust Plex server may need several terabytes for extensive collections. Look for solutions that support up to 4TB or more. Using SSDs instead of traditional HDDs can dramatically reduce loading times, enhancing performance when accessing large files. Balancing RAM and storage is vital to prevent bottlenecks and maximize your Plex experience.

Connectivity Options Available

To guarantee your Plex server runs smoothly, it is vital to take into account the connectivity options available on your mini PC. Look for devices with dual Ethernet ports, like 2.5G LAN, which enable link aggregation for higher network speeds. Support for WiFi 6 is important, allowing for faster internet connectivity that guarantees seamless streaming of high-definition content. Evaluate the number and type of USB ports, particularly USB 3.2 Gen2, which offers high-speed data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps for external storage. Additionally, check for HDMI ports that support 4K output for direct connection to 4K displays. Finally, consider mini PCs with Bluetooth capabilities to connect various wireless devices, enhancing your media server experience.

Cooling System Efficiency

Since maintaining peak performance is vital for your Plex server, an efficient cooling system plays an important role in preventing thermal throttling during long streaming sessions. When choosing a mini PC, look for upgraded cooling solutions like improved fans and thermal paste. These features help reduce noise and heat, ensuring stable operation. Consider systems with bottom airflow designs, as they enhance cooling efficiency by allowing better heat dissipation in compact spaces. A quiet cooling system is also essential for home environments, providing uninterrupted media enjoyment. Finally, monitor the internal temperatures of your mini PC to catch potential cooling issues early, keeping your server reliable even under heavy workloads like transcoding video streams.

Graphics and Display Support

When selecting a mini PC for your Plex server, prioritizing graphics and display support can greatly enhance your streaming experience. Make certain it supports 4K video playback and has integrated graphics capable of handling high-resolution content, ideally with AV1 decoding for efficient streaming. Look for models with multiple HDMI or DisplayPort outputs, allowing for multi-screen setups that improve media management. A robust GPU can considerably boost transcoding performance, especially when streaming to multiple devices or handling different video formats. Additionally, check for support of advanced codecs like HEVC or H.264 to guarantee seamless playback of high-definition content. Don’t forget to assess cooling systems and noise levels, as effective thermal management is key during extended streaming sessions.

Expandability and Future-proofing

As you consider a mini PC for your Plex server, expandability and future-proofing play essential roles in guaranteeing your system remains effective over time. Look for a model with multiple RAM slots and upgradeable memory to enhance multitasking and streaming capabilities. A mini PC equipped with several storage slots allows you to add larger or additional SSDs, accommodating your growing media library. Aim for systems that support high-capacity drives, ideally up to 4TB or more, for seamless playback. Choose a robust processor with higher core counts for efficient transcoding tasks. Finally, prioritize modern connectivity options like USB 3.2 and 2.5G Ethernet or WiFi 6 to guarantee faster data transfers as your streaming needs evolve.