When it comes to setting up a Proxmox NAS for your home server, choosing the right mini PC can make all the difference. With so many options available, you’ll want to take into account factors like processing power, RAM, and storage. The right choice not only enhances performance but also guarantees efficient data management. Let’s explore the top picks that could elevate your home server experience to the next level.

Beelink Me Mini PC NAS with Intel N95 CPU and 1TB SSD

If you’re looking for a compact and efficient solution for your home media needs, the Beelink Me Mini PC NAS with the Intel N95 CPU and 1TB SSD is an excellent choice. This Mini PC boasts a powerful Intel Alder Lake N95 CPU with 4 cores and a turbo frequency of 3.4GHz, ensuring smooth performance for various applications. With 12GB RAM and expandable storage up to 24TB, you can easily manage extensive media libraries. The dual 2.5G LAN ports and WiFi 6 enable fast connectivity, while its quiet design makes it perfect for any room in your home.

Best For: Families seeking a compact and versatile media center solution that supports extensive storage and high-speed connectivity.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Alder Lake N95 CPU and 12GB RAM, it handles multiple applications seamlessly.
• Expandable Storage: 6 M.2 NVMe SSD slots allow for significant storage expansion, accommodating large media libraries.
• Quiet Operation: Designed to operate at low noise levels, making it suitable for use in living rooms and bedrooms.

Cons:

• Limited Graphics Capability: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics may not satisfy users looking for high-end gaming performance.
• Size Constraints: While compact, the size might limit some users’ preferences for larger desktop setups.
• Potential Overkill for Simple Tasks: Its advanced features may be unnecessary for users with basic computing needs.

Beelink ME Mini PC N150 (12GB RAM, 2TB SSD)

The Beelink ME Mini PC N150 is perfect for tech enthusiasts and professionals looking to set up a reliable Proxmox NAS. With its Intel N150 processor and 12GB LPDDR5 RAM, you’ll enjoy smooth performance for virtualization and data handling. The pre-installed 2TB SSD offers ample storage, expandable up to 24TB, making it ideal for your 4K movie library or secure documents. Its dual 2.5G Ethernet guarantees ultra-fast data transfers, while the compact design fits seamlessly into tight spaces. Plus, its whisper-quiet operation allows you to work or relax without distractions. You’ve found a worthy addition to your home server setup!

Best For: Tech enthusiasts and professionals seeking a compact, reliable solution for virtualization, NAS, and media applications.

Pros:

• Excellent performance with Intel N150 processor and 12GB LPDDR5 RAM for smooth multitasking.
• Large storage capacity with 2TB SSD, expandable up to 24TB for extensive media libraries and secure data storage.
• Whisper-quiet operation and efficient cooling system, making it suitable for quiet environments.

Cons:

• Limited to six M.2 SSD slots, which may not suffice for users needing extensive storage options beyond the maximum capacity.
• May require some technical knowledge to set up and configure for virtualization or NAS functions.
• The compact design might lead to overheating if not placed in well-ventilated areas during heavy usage.

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

For users seeking a compact yet powerful solution for running Proxmox NAS, the GMKtec Mini PC stands out with its Intel Twin Lake N150 processor and 16GB of RAM. This model offers impressive performance enhancements—6% to 10% better than its predecessors—making it perfect for multitasking and home entertainment. With a 512GB PCIe SSD, you’ll experience quick boot times and smooth file transfers. Its dual HDMI ports support 4K displays, while WiFi 6 guarantees fast connectivity. Plus, the upgraded cooling system keeps it quiet. With solid reviews and a one-year warranty, it’s a reliable choice for your home server setup.

Best For: Users looking for a compact and efficient mini PC for multitasking, home entertainment, or running a Proxmox NAS.

Pros:

• Powerful Intel Twin Lake N150 processor with performance improvements over previous models.
• Dual HDMI ports support up to two 4K displays for enhanced multitasking capabilities.
• Fast connectivity options with WiFi 6 and upgraded cooling system for quieter operation.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options due to its compact design.
• May not handle intensive gaming or high-end graphic tasks effectively.
• 1-year warranty might be considered short compared to some competitors.

MINISFORUM MS-01-S1260 Mini PC Barebone with Intel Core i5-12600H

Powerful and compact, the MINISFORUM MS-01-S1260 Mini PC Barebone is perfect for those looking to run a Proxmox NAS with efficiency and speed. Featuring the Intel Core i5-12600H processor, it boasts 12 cores and 16 threads, reaching speeds up to 4.5GHz. You can expand your memory with dual-channel DDR5 RAM, supporting up to 96GB, and enjoy ample storage options with three M.2 NVMe SSD slots. Its 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports guarantee lightning-fast data transfer, making it an excellent choice for your home server setup. With robust security features, this mini PC delivers excellent performance for virtual machines.

Best For: Users seeking a powerful and compact mini PC for running efficient home server setups or virtual machines.

Pros:

• High performance with Intel Core i5-12600H processor, featuring 12 cores and 16 threads.
• Ample storage options with support for up to three M.2 NVMe SSDs and total max storage of 24TB.
• Fast network connectivity with dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports and dual 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports.

Cons:

• Barebone design means RAM, SSD, and operating system must be purchased separately.
• Limited portability due to its weight of 3.12 pounds and larger dimensions compared to ultra-compact PCs.
• Potential complexity in setup for users unfamiliar with building or configuring PC components.

GMKtec G10 Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U

Ideal for those seeking a compact yet powerful solution for home office or light gaming, the GMKtec G10 Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U packs impressive performance in a small form factor. With its AMD Ryzen 5 3500U and Radeon Vega 8 graphics, you’ll enjoy fast processing speeds and smooth multitasking. Preinstalled with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, it offers excellent storage and upgrade options. The triple-display support and 2.5GbE LAN guarantee seamless connectivity and stunning visuals. Plus, its compact design and extensive ports make it a versatile choice for any setup. You won’t be disappointed with this mini powerhouse!

Best For: Those looking for a compact and efficient mini PC suitable for home office tasks and light gaming.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Features AMD Ryzen 5 3500U and Radeon Vega 8 graphics for fast processing and multitasking.
• Storage Flexibility: Comes with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, upgradeable to 32GB RAM and dual 8TB SSDs.
• Triple-Display Support: Capable of handling multiple displays with stunning 4K visuals, ideal for multitasking and design work.

Cons:

• Limited Gaming Capability: While suitable for light gaming, it may struggle with more demanding titles.
• No Thunderbolt Support: Lacks Thunderbolt ports for ultra-fast data transfer and connectivity options.
• Compact Size May Limit Expansion: Limited physical space could restrict some hardware upgrades compared to larger desktops.

Pulcro.io TK Two Mini PC – N150 CPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

The Pulcro.io TK Two Mini PC, equipped with an Intel N150 CPU and 16GB of RAM, is a standout choice for users seeking an efficient and compact server solution for Proxmox NAS. With its 512GB SSD, you’ll have plenty of storage for your files, and you can upgrade to 2TB NVMe if needed. This mini PC supports triple 4K displays, perfect for multitasking. Plus, its whisper-quiet design and low energy consumption make it ideal for home use. With 2.5Gbps Ethernet and dual-band WiFi, you’ll enjoy fast and reliable connectivity. Overall, it’s a great choice for your home server setup.

Best For: Users looking for a compact and efficient mini PC for home server solutions, particularly those using Proxmox NAS.

Pros:

• Compact Design: At only 5 x 5 x 1.7 inches, it fits easily into any workspace.
• Triple Monitor Support: Capable of supporting up to three 4K displays for enhanced multitasking.
• Energy Efficient: Consumes less than 1 kWh/day, making it economical for continuous use.

Cons:

• Limited Built-in Storage: The initial 512GB SSD may require an upgrade for users with extensive storage needs.
• Integrated Graphics: While sufficient for basic tasks, it may not meet the demands of high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
• Limited RAM Upgrade: Upgradable to 32GB, which may not be enough for users requiring extensive memory for heavy applications.

Beelink Mini S13 Pro Mini PC

For those seeking a compact yet efficient solution for their Proxmox NAS, the Beelink Mini S13 Pro Mini PC stands out with its impressive Intel 13th Generation N150 processor. With 16GB of high-speed DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe SSD, you’ll experience quick system responses and ample storage, expandable up to 4TB. Its dual HDMI ports allow for a dual display setup, while WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 guarantee fast connectivity. Plus, the efficient cooling system operates quietly. Weighing just 1.57 pounds, it’s perfect for productivity, content creation, and even casual gaming, all backed by lifetime technical support.

Best For: Those looking for a compact and efficient mini PC for productivity tasks, creative content creation, and casual gaming.

Pros:

• High-speed 16GB DDR4 RAM ensures quick system responses.
• Dual HDMI ports allow for a convenient dual display setup.
• Compact design and lightweight make it easy to transport and fit in small spaces.

Cons:

• Limited to integrated Intel UHD Graphics, which may not handle demanding gaming or graphic-intensive applications well.
• Storage expansion requires purchasing additional drives separately.
• Entry-level processor may not meet the performance needs of more demanding users.

GMKtec Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U

With its powerful Ryzen 5 3500U processor, the GMKtec Mini PC stands out as an excellent choice for users looking to run Proxmox NAS efficiently. This compact unit supports up to 32 GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory and comes with 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB NVMe SSD. You’ll appreciate the 2.5GbE Ethernet for lightning-fast data transmission, making it ideal for various applications. The integrated Radeon Vega 8 GPU enhances graphics performance, allowing for seamless video editing and casual gaming. Plus, enjoy fast wireless connectivity and multiple ports for all your peripherals.

Best For: The GMKtec Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U is best for users seeking a compact, high-performance solution for tasks such as running Proxmox NAS, video editing, and casual gaming.

Pros:

• Powerful performance with Ryzen 5 3500U processor and integrated Radeon Vega 8 GPU for demanding applications.
• Fast data transmission capabilities with 2.5GbE Ethernet, ideal for network-intensive tasks.
• Expandable memory and storage, supporting up to 64GB RAM and 16TB SSD, allowing for future upgrades.

Cons:

• Limited to integrated graphics, which may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or graphic design.
• No built-in optical drive, which may be a drawback for users needing physical media access.
• Compact design may lead to thermal constraints under heavy load, potentially affecting performance.

GMKtec G3S Mini PC (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)

Powerful multitasking capabilities make the GMKtec G3S Mini PC an excellent choice for anyone looking to run Proxmox NAS efficiently. With its 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, you’ll experience seamless performance for routine tasks and home entertainment. The 512GB M.2 SSD guarantees fast file transfers, while dual HDMI ports let you connect to two 4K displays for an enhanced visual experience. Plus, WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 keep you connected effortlessly. With a solid 4.6-star rating, this mini PC is a reliable option for your home server setup.

Best For: The GMKtec G3S Mini PC is best for users needing a compact and powerful solution for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment setups.

Pros:

• High Performance: Equipped with a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor, delivering up to 36% better performance than previous generations.
• Dual 4K Display Support: Dual HDMI 2.0 ports allow for connection to two 4K displays, enhancing your visual experience.
• Efficient Multitasking: With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, it provides smooth multitasking capabilities for various applications.

Cons:

• Limited Graphics Power: While upgraded Intel UHD Graphics are suitable for basic tasks, they may not meet the needs of demanding gaming or graphic design.
• No Thunderbolt Support: Lacks Thunderbolt ports which could limit connectivity options for high-speed data transfer.
• 1-Year Warranty: The limited 1-year warranty may not be sufficient for users seeking longer-term coverage for their investment.

BOSGAME P4 Light Gaming Mini PC

The BOSGAME P4 Light Gaming Mini PC stands out as an excellent choice for users who need robust performance in a compact form factor. With its Ryzen 7 5825U processor and 32GB of DDR4 RAM, you can handle gaming and design tasks effortlessly. The 1TB PCIe SSD guarantees quick load times, while the dual 2.5GbE LAN ports enhance your network capabilities. Plus, you’ll appreciate the triple display support at 4K@60Hz, perfect for multitasking. With WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, connectivity is seamless. Backed by a 3-year warranty and great customer support, it’s a solid investment for your home server setup.

Best For: The BOSGAME P4 Light Gaming Mini PC is best for gamers and creative professionals seeking high performance in a compact and versatile system.

Pros:

• High-performance Ryzen 7 5825U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads for efficient multitasking.
• Triple display support at 4K@60Hz, ideal for enhanced productivity and immersive gaming experiences.
• Extensive connectivity options, including dual 2.5GbE LAN ports and WiFi 6E for fast and reliable internet access.

Cons:

• Limited to integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, which may not satisfy hardcore gamers needing a dedicated GPU.
• Compact design may restrict internal upgrades beyond RAM and storage.
• Higher price point compared to basic mini PCs, which may not be justifiable for casual users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for Proxmox NAS

When you’re choosing a mini PC for Proxmox NAS, you’ll want to focus on several key factors. Consider the processor performance, memory capacity, and storage options to guarantee smooth operation. Networking capabilities and cooling efficiency also play an essential role in maintaining peak performance and longevity.

Processor Performance and Cores

Choosing the right processor performance and core count is crucial for maximizing your Proxmox NAS’s capabilities. A quad-core processor or higher allows you to run multiple virtual machines simultaneously without hiccups. Aim for clock speeds above 3.0 GHz, as they enhance performance during CPU-intensive tasks like data processing and virtualization. If you’re into media applications, consider processors with integrated graphics to offload graphical tasks, improving overall system efficiency. Additionally, the processor’s architecture, like Intel Alder Lake or AMD Ryzen, can greatly impact performance due to their advancements in efficiency. Finally, verify the processor supports virtualization technologies like Intel VT-x or AMD-V, as these are essential for managing virtual machines effectively in your NAS setup.

Memory Capacity and Type

Memory capacity and type play an essential role in the performance of your Proxmox NAS. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM to guarantee efficient multitasking and smooth operation of virtual machines and storage tasks. Choose DDR4 or DDR5 RAM, as they offer faster data transfer rates and better performance than older types. It’s also wise to select a mini PC that supports expandable memory options, ideally allowing upgrades to 32GB or more for future demands. Pay attention to the memory channel configuration; dual-channel setups considerably enhance data throughput compared to single-channel ones. Finally, validate the RAM’s compatibility with the mini PC’s motherboard to assure peak performance and stability when running Proxmox and its applications.

Storage Expansion Options

Given the critical role storage expansion plays in optimizing your Proxmox NAS, you’ll want to pick a mini PC that offers ample options. Look for models with multiple M.2 NVMe SSD slots, as some can accommodate up to six, providing a total capacity of 24TB. Compatibility with both SATA and PCIe SSDs maximizes your storage flexibility and performance. It’s also essential to guarantee the mini PC supports RAID configurations like RAID 0 and RAID 1, enhancing data redundancy and speed. Evaluate pre-installed storage, as many mini PCs come with SSDs ranging from 512GB to 2TB, which you can upgrade later. Finally, consider options for dual or multiple drive setups for managing larger storage arrays efficiently.

Networking Capabilities

While expanding storage is key for your Proxmox NAS, networking capabilities play an essential role in ensuring smooth data transfers and efficient operations. Look for mini PCs with dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, as they notably boost data transfer speeds and support link aggregation for better performance. WiFi 6 compatibility is also important, offering faster wireless connections and improved efficiency in multi-device environments, which is crucial for smooth virtual machine operations. Additionally, Bluetooth 5.2 enhances connectivity with various peripherals. Make sure the mini PC supports multiple network protocols and configurations, ensuring flexibility in managing your virtual machines and storage solutions. Investing in these features will optimize your Proxmox NAS experience.

Cooling and Noise Levels

When selecting a mini PC for your Proxmox NAS, it’s crucial to take into account cooling and noise levels, as they greatly affect performance and user experience. Look for mini PCs that feature efficient cooling systems, like vertical airflow designs, to keep operating temperatures ideal during prolonged use. Noise levels are equally important, especially in home environments; many mini PCs run at sound levels around 33-35 dB, ensuring whisper-quiet operation. A solid cooling solution not only enhances the lifespan of components by preventing overheating but also allows for 24/7 operation. Choose models with upgraded cooling fans and thermal management systems that effectively dissipate heat while maintaining low noise—perfect for a non-intrusive presence in your living space.

Compact Design and Portability

Choosing a mini PC for your Proxmox NAS means considering not just performance but also its compact design and portability. Many mini PCs measure around 4 to 6 inches in each dimension, making them perfect for tight spaces. Weighing less than 3 pounds, they’re easy to install in various environments, like home offices or entertainment centers. Their efficient cooling systems guarantee quiet operation, typically around 33 dB, which is a blessing in close quarters. Plus, most models support VESA mounting, so you can attach them to the back of monitors or under desks, freeing up valuable space. This lightweight, small form factor also makes it simple to relocate your NAS system whenever needed.

Power Supply Requirements

Understanding power supply requirements is vital for selecting a mini PC for your Proxmox NAS, as it directly impacts performance and stability. Look for devices that require between 45W to 100W, depending on their configuration and workload demands. Make sure the mini PC has a built-in power supply that meets voltage requirements, typically ranging from 12V to 19V for stability. Energy efficiency ratings are important; lower power consumption can lead to savings, especially with 24/7 operations. Opt for designs that allow for easy setup, ideally using a single AC power cable to reduce clutter. Finally, assess power supply compatibility with potential upgrades, as adding RAM or storage may require additional power, affecting overall performance.

Operating System Compatibility

To guarantee your mini PC runs Proxmox NAS effectively, it is vital to confirm its compatibility with the Proxmox Virtual Environment (VE), which is built on Debian Linux. Choose hardware that supports virtualization technologies, as Proxmox allows you to create and manage virtual machines and containers seamlessly. Pay attention to the processor’s architecture; Intel and AMD processors with virtualization support (VT-x for Intel and AMD-V for AMD) are significant for running multiple virtual environments. Also, consider RAM capacity—Proxmox recommends at least 2GB for basic use, with more needed for multiple VMs. Finally, check for storage options, favoring SSDs for faster I/O performance, especially when handling multiple virtual machines and NAS data storage solutions.