If you’re looking to set up a reliable Plex server, the right mini PC can make all the difference. In 2025, options abound, with models that boast powerful processors, ample memory, and solid connectivity features. From compact gaming solutions to high-performance workstations, you’ll want to evaluate what fits your needs best. Let’s explore the top picks and see which mini PCs stand out for ideal media streaming.

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

If you’re looking for a compact and powerful solution for your Plex server, the GMKtec Mini PC with Intel Twin Lake N150 is an excellent choice. With a 4-core processor that boosts up to 3.6GHz, it handles streaming and multitasking effortlessly. Its 16GB DDR4 RAM guarantees smooth performance, while the 512GB NVMe SSD means quick boot times and fast file transfers. Dual HDMI ports support 4K displays, making it perfect for a home theater setup. Plus, WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 keep you connected. With a 1-year warranty and solid customer reviews, this mini PC is a reliable option for any setup.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and efficient mini PC for home entertainment, office work, or as a Plex server.

Pros:

• High performance with a 4-core Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, boosting up to 3.6GHz for smooth multitasking.
• Ample storage featuring a 512GB NVMe SSD for quick boot times and fast file transfers.
• Versatile connectivity with WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and dual HDMI ports supporting dual 4K displays.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options due to the compact design of the mini PC.
• Potential thermal concerns in sustained high-performance scenarios despite upgraded cooling.
• Not suitable for high-end gaming or intensive graphical applications due to integrated graphics capabilities.

GMKtec Mini PC Workstation with Intel Core i9 13900HK

The GMKtec Mini PC Workstation with Intel Core i9 13900HK is an exceptional choice for power users and media enthusiasts looking to run a Plex server efficiently. With a robust 14-core processor that boosts up to 5.4GHz, coupled with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, this mini PC delivers impressive performance. You’ll appreciate the 1TB NVMe SSD, expandable up to 12TB, allowing ample storage for your media library. Its 8K display capability and multi-screen support enhance your viewing experience. Plus, with WiFi6 and Bluetooth 5.2, connectivity is seamless. Overall, it’s a high-performing workstation for your Plex needs.

Best For: Power users and media enthusiasts seeking a high-performance mini PC for tasks such as running a Plex server.

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Core i9-13900HK processor with 14 cores, providing excellent speed and multitasking capabilities.
• Expandable storage options up to 12TB, ensuring ample space for large media libraries.
• Impressive display capabilities with support for 8K resolution and multi-screen setups.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to standard mini PCs, which may not suit budget-conscious buyers.
• Limited warranty period of only one year may raise concerns for long-term use.
• Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics may not meet the demands of high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.

GMKtec Mini PC N150 (G3 Plus Intel Twin Lake)

Looking for a powerful yet compact solution for your Plex server? The GMKtec Mini PC N150 (G3 Plus Intel Twin Lake) packs a punch with its 4-core processor, reaching burst speeds up to 3.6GHz. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, you’ll enjoy speedy boot-ups and efficient multitasking. It supports dual 4K displays, ensuring smooth video playback. Plus, the connectivity options are impressive, featuring USB 3.2 ports, HDMI outputs, and WiFi 6. With upgraded cooling and a one-year warranty, this mini PC is perfect for your home entertainment needs.

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

Pros:

• High performance with a 4-core Intel Twin Lake N150 processor and burst speeds up to 3.6GHz.
• Ample storage with a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD and 16GB DDR4 RAM for efficient multitasking.
• Excellent connectivity options including dual 4K HDMI outputs, USB 3.2 ports, and WiFi 6 support.

Cons:

• Limited upgradeability compared to larger desktop PCs due to its compact design.
• No dedicated graphics card, which may affect performance for high-end gaming or intensive graphic tasks.
• Potential noise from the cooling fan under heavy load, despite upgraded cooling features.

GMKtec Mini PC Workstation (Intel Core i9, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD)

For those seeking a high-performance solution for their Plex server, the GMKtec Mini PC Workstation stands out with its powerful Intel Core i9-13900HK processor, boasting 14 cores and a maximum frequency of 5.4 GHz. With 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM and a massive 2TB NVMe SSD, you’ll enjoy seamless streaming and quick access to your media library. The device supports quad-screen 8K display setups and offers a range of connectivity options, including WiFi6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Plus, with a one-year warranty and dedicated support, you can invest with confidence in this robust mini PC.

Best For: The GMKtec Mini PC Workstation is best for users seeking a powerful and compact solution for high-performance tasks like media streaming, gaming, and professional applications.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i9 processor and 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM for superior multitasking and processing power.
• Massive Storage: 2TB NVMe SSD ensures ample space for large media libraries and quick access to files.
• Advanced Display Support: Capable of quad-screen 8K display setups, perfect for creative professionals or multi-taskers.

Cons:

• Price Point: Higher-end specifications may come with a premium price, which may not fit all budgets.
• Limited Warranty: The one-year warranty may be short for users looking for long-term protection.
• Compact Design Limitations: Smaller form factor might limit upgrade options or thermal performance under heavy workloads.

GMKtec Mini PC Computer N95 (Turbo 3.4GHz)

With its powerful 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 processor, the GMKtec Mini PC Computer N95 (Turbo 3.4GHz) stands out as an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable Plex server solution. You’ll appreciate its 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB M.2 SSD, ensuring swift performance and quick boot times. The mini PC handles multitasking with ease, letting you run multiple applications seamlessly. Its dual HDMI ports support stunning 4K displays, perfect for home theater setups. Plus, with robust connectivity options like USB 3.2 and Bluetooth 5.0, you can easily connect various devices for an enhanced entertainment experience.

Best For: Those seeking a compact and efficient mini PC for home entertainment, office work, and seamless multitasking.

Pros:

• High Performance: Equipped with a powerful 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking and fast operation.
• 4K Display Support: Dual HDMI ports allow for stunning 4K video playback, ideal for home theater setups.
• Versatile Connectivity: Features USB 3.2, Gigabit Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.0 for easy connections to various devices.

Cons:

• Limited Expandability: The compact design may restrict upgrades or expansions compared to larger desktop PCs.
• No Pre-installed Operating System: Users may need to install their own OS, which could be a barrier for less tech-savvy individuals.
• Noise Levels: Depending on usage, the mini PC’s fan may produce noticeable noise under heavy load.

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

The GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC, powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, is an excellent choice for users seeking high-performance capabilities in a compact form factor. With 8 cores and a turbo boost up to 4.50GHz, it delivers a significant 35% performance increase over previous Ryzen models. You’ll enjoy 32GB of expandable DDR4 RAM and a 1TB SSD, perfect for multitasking and storage. Its dual 2.5GbE Ethernet guarantees lightning-fast networking, while the integrated Radeon graphics support triple 4K displays. Plus, with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, you’ll have seamless connectivity for all your needs.

Best For: Users looking for a powerful and compact gaming mini PC that excels in productivity, office work, and gaming.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor with 8 cores and turbo boost capabilities for demanding tasks.
• Ample memory and storage with 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB SSD, expandable for future needs.
• Versatile connectivity options including dual 2.5GbE Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and support for triple 4K displays.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options for storage and memory, as upgrades are not included.
• Compact design may limit thermal performance under heavy loads compared to larger systems.
• Price point may be higher than entry-level gaming PCs, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users.

GEEKOM IT15 Mini PC (Intel Ultra 9 285H, 32GB DDR5, 2TB SSD)

Designed specifically for demanding applications, the GEEKOM IT15 Mini PC stands out as an ideal choice for professionals seeking a powerful Plex server. With its Intel Ultra 9 285H processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, it delivers exceptional performance. You can easily manage over 50 concurrent tasks, making it perfect for video production and live streaming. The mini PC supports dual HDMI 2.0 for 8K displays and features ultra-fast WiFi 7 for seamless connectivity. Plus, its robust design and advanced cooling system guarantee reliability during heavy usage, backed by a three-year warranty for peace of mind.

Best For: Professionals in video production, graphic design, and live streaming who require high performance and multitasking capabilities.

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Ultra 9 285H processor optimized for demanding applications.
• Supports up to four displays with 8K and 4K resolutions, ideal for multitasking.
• Robust build quality and advanced cooling system ensure reliable operation under heavy loads.

Cons:

• Higher initial investment compared to standard mini PCs.
• Limited upgradability for integrated components beyond RAM and SSD.
• May be overkill for casual users or those with less demanding computing needs.

wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 Gaming Mini PC

For those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for their Plex server needs, the wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 Gaming Mini PC stands out as an excellent choice. With its AMD Ryzen 5 3550H processor and Radeon Vega 8 graphics, you’ll enjoy smooth multimedia experiences and casual gaming. It boasts 16GB of RAM, upgradeable to 32GB, and a 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD for fast multitasking. You can connect up to three displays with 4K support, making it perfect for presentations or streaming. Plus, its compact design and silent cooling system guarantee you save space and enjoy quiet operation.

Best For: The wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 Gaming Mini PC is best for users looking for a compact and powerful solution for home offices, multimedia tasks, and casual gaming.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 5 processor with Radeon Vega 8 graphics for smooth multimedia and gaming experiences.
• Supports triple-screen setup with 4K resolution for enhanced productivity and visual quality.
• Compact design with silent cooling system, ideal for space-saving installations.

Cons:

• Limited to 16GB of RAM by default, requiring an upgrade for more demanding multitasking.
• May not support high-end gaming performance for the latest AAA titles.
• Wall-mounted installation might not be suitable for all environments or preferences.

GMKtec Mini PC Computer G10 Ryzen 5 3500U

Looking for a powerful yet compact solution to run your Plex server seamlessly? The GMKtec Mini PC G10, featuring the Ryzen 5 3500U processor, offers impressive performance with its 2.1 GHz base and 3.7 GHz boost frequencies. With 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, you can expand storage up to 16TB. Its AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics support three displays, perfect for video playback and casual gaming. Plus, the 2.5GbE Ethernet guarantees speedy connectivity. Lightweight and portable, it’s ideal for mobile offices, backed by a one-year warranty for peace of mind.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and efficient mini PC for tasks like running a Plex server, casual gaming, or mobile office use.

Pros:

• Compact design makes it easy to transport and set up in various environments.
• High performance with Ryzen 5 3500U processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM for multitasking.
• Supports multiple displays and high-speed connectivity with 2.5GbE Ethernet.

Cons:

• Upgrades for RAM and storage are not included, requiring additional investment.
• Limited graphics capabilities for high-end gaming beyond casual use.
• The 1-year warranty may not be sufficient for heavy users needing long-term reliability.

HP Elite 805 Mini PC Desktop Computer (Ryzen 5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)

The HP Elite 805 Mini PC Desktop Computer stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for a Plex server. With its AMD Ryzen 5 5650G processor and 16GB RAM, you’ll enjoy smooth multitasking and performance. The 512GB SSD guarantees fast boot times and quick data access. Weighing less than 3 pounds and measuring just 6.96 x 6.88 x 1.33 inches, it’s easily portable. Plus, with Wi-Fi 6 and multiple USB ports, connectivity is seamless. Dual 4K display support enhances your streaming experience. With a solid customer rating, it’s a reliable pick for your media needs.

Best For: Those seeking a powerful, compact mini PC for multitasking and media streaming.

Pros:

• Compact and portable design, weighing less than 3 pounds.
• Fast performance with AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 16GB RAM.
• Supports dual 4K displays for an enhanced viewing experience.

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity with the base model at 512GB SSD, expandable options may be needed.
• Integrated graphics may not suffice for heavy gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
• Warranty and return policy may have specific conditions that could be restrictive.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for Plex Server 2025

When choosing a mini PC for your Plex server in 2025, you need to think about several key factors. Consider processing power, RAM capacity, and storage options to guarantee smooth streaming. Don’t forget to evaluate connectivity features and graphics capabilities to meet your specific needs.

Processing Power Requirements

Choosing the right processing power for your mini PC as a Plex server can make all the difference in performance and usability. For peak transcoding and simultaneous streaming, consider processors with multiple cores and threads, like Intel’s Core i9 or AMD’s Ryzen series. While the Intel Twin Lake N150 is suitable for basic tasks with its base speed of 800MHz and burst speed of 3.6GHz, advanced options like the Intel Core i9-13900HK, reaching up to 5.4GHz, offer faster response times. Look for higher cache sizes, such as the 24MB Smart Cache, to speed up data access during streaming. Also, pay attention to the TDP; lower values, like 45W, promote quieter operation and less heat in your home server setup.

RAM Capacity Considerations

For a seamless Plex server experience, having the right amount of RAM is essential. You should aim for a minimum of 16GB, especially if you plan to handle multiple streams or transcoding tasks. If you’re looking to multitask or run additional applications alongside Plex, consider opting for 32GB or more. This extra capacity will enhance performance and guarantee efficient buffering, reducing latency during video playback—key for high-resolution content. Don’t forget about RAM types; DDR4 is common, but DDR5 offers superior speeds and efficiency. Finally, check for expandability options; as your media library grows, being able to upgrade your RAM can help your server adapt to increasing demands.

Storage Options Available

Having sufficient RAM sets the stage for a successful Plex server, but the right storage options are just as important. When choosing a mini PC, consider storage capacity; you’ll find options ranging from 512GB to 2TB SSDs, with some supporting expansion to 12TB or more via additional M.2 slots. Opt for mini PCs with NVMe SSDs for faster read and write speeds, which enhance media streaming and minimize buffering. Check the storage interface too; PCIe 3.0 or 4.0 M.2 slots outperform SATA connections and are essential for large media libraries. Finally, think about RAID configurations, as they provide data redundancy and improved performance, making your Plex server more reliable and efficient for streaming.

Connectivity Features Needed

When setting up a Plex server, ensuring robust connectivity features is vital for ideal performance and user experience. Look for a mini PC with multiple USB 3.2 ports for fast data transfer rates, ideally up to 10 Gbps, to efficiently support external storage devices. You’ll also want at least one HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort for 4K video output at 60Hz, ensuring high-quality media playback. A 2.5GbE Ethernet port can greatly enhance wired network connections, providing speeds up to 2500Mbps for seamless streaming. Additionally, WiFi 6 capability is essential for wireless connectivity, offering speeds up to 600Mbps. Finally, multiple HDMI or DisplayPort outputs allow for dual or quad-screen setups, improving multitasking and overall management of your media server.

Graphics Capabilities Assessment

Choosing the right graphics capabilities for your mini PC is vital, especially if you want a seamless Plex server experience. Look for a graphics card that supports hardware acceleration to guarantee smooth transcoding of video files. This feature is important when streaming to multiple devices. Make certain the mini PC can handle 4K video playback, as many users have high-resolution content in their libraries. Check how many simultaneous streams it can manage, as this ties directly to its graphics and processing power. Additionally, opt for a model that supports various video codecs like H.264 and HEVC (H.265) for better compatibility. Finally, consider dual HDMI or DisplayPort outputs for effective multi-display setups when managing your server.

Cooling Solutions Effectiveness

Graphics capabilities play a significant role in how well your mini PC performs as a Plex server, but effective cooling solutions are just as important. When you’re streaming, your mini PC will undergo significant workloads, generating heat that can impact performance. Look for upgraded cooling systems with advanced fans and thermal paste to keep CPU temperatures low, minimizing the risk of thermal throttling. Quiet cooling solutions are essential in a home environment, allowing your mini PC to run efficiently without disturbing your peace. Consider models featuring multiple cooling mechanisms like heat pipes and direct-contact designs for better heat dissipation. A well-cooled mini PC supports continuous operation, ensuring reliable performance for streaming services like Plex.

Operating System Compatibility

Operating system compatibility is vital for guaranteeing your mini PC functions effectively as a Plex server. Make sure the mini PC supports an OS compatible with Plex, like Windows, Linux, or macOS, for easy installation and updates. It’s important to choose a system that can run the latest version of Plex Media Server, as this typically requires recent operating systems to access new features and optimizations. If you plan to run Plex alongside other applications, consider a mini PC that supports virtualization with systems like ESXi or Proxmox. Additionally, check that your OS supports necessary codecs for transcoding, as this greatly impacts your streaming experience. Finally, verify the mini PC meets the resource requirements for smooth performance.

Size and Portability Factors

When setting up a Plex server, size and portability are key considerations that can greatly affect your experience. Look for a mini PC with a compact form factor; dimensions around 4.5 x 4.2 inches fit perfectly in tight spaces like entertainment centers or small offices. Weighing less than 3 pounds enhances portability, making it easy to relocate if needed. Consider designs that support wall mounting or other space-saving solutions to maximize usability in limited areas. Additionally, prioritize models that emphasize energy efficiency and low noise levels, ensuring a pleasant environment while running continuously. Choosing the right size and portability features will make your Plex server setup seamless and convenient.