We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best mini PC for plex media server 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

MINISFORUM Mini PC AI X1 Pro AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370(12 Cores/24 Threads, up to 5.1GHz)&AMD Radeon 890M Mini Gaming Computer,64GB DDR5 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, 8K Quad Display,Dual 2.5 LAN/WiFi 7/BT5.4/Oculink

The MINISFORUM Mini PC AI X1 Pro is a very powerful mini computer equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 processor boasting 12 cores and speeds up to 5.1 GHz, making it more than capable of handling a Plex media server along with multiple other tasks without slowing down. Its 64GB of fast DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD offer plenty of space and speed for storing and streaming large media libraries smoothly. The PC supports up to four 4K displays and 8K resolution, which is great if you want crystal-clear video output or multitasking on multiple screens. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, WiFi 7 for fast wireless connections, Bluetooth 5.4, and multiple USB4 ports for quick data transfer or adding external devices.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,114
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Operating System

Most important from
324 reviews

Processor (CPU)
This mini PC is incredibly fast and handles multitasking with ease, making it perfect for demanding setups.
Connectivity
Dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports configured for aggregated connection deliver a seamless and speedy 5Gbps network experience.
Operating System
BIOS design is somewhat limited, lacking legacy boot support and granular PXE boot options, which can be a drawback for advanced network booting needs.
#2
9.4 score

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

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.

Rating
9.4
Connectivity
Graphics (GPU)

Most important from
97 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.
#3
9.1 score

GMKtec M3 Ultra Mini PC with Intel Core i7 12700H (14C/20T 4.7 GHz), 32GB DDR4 RAM+1TB NVMe SSD, Mini Desktop Computer Iris XE Graphics, Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6, BT5.2, USB-C

The GMKtec M3 Ultra Mini PC is a powerful choice for a Plex media server thanks to its strong Intel Core i7-12700H processor with 14 cores and up to 4.7 GHz speed. This means it can handle multiple streams and transcoding tasks smoothly, which is great for streaming media to various devices simultaneously. With 32GB of DDR4 RAM and a fast 1TB NVMe SSD, it offers plenty of memory and storage for large media libraries and quick data access, both important for seamless playback.

Rating
9.1
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
RAM

Most important from
359 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The mini PC delivers turbo-speed performance, handling multiple applications and numerous browser tabs flawlessly without lag.
Connectivity
Despite its compact size, the device runs extremely quiet and maintains impressive network responsiveness across various WiFi bands.
RAM
The 32GB of RAM supports demanding multitasking and media server workloads, with easy upgrade options available for even more memory.
Operating System
Windows 11 Pro comes preinstalled and updates smoothly, providing a familiar and flexible environment for media server software.
Form Factor
The unit's design includes convenient features like an easy access panel for adding a second SSD and a Kensington Lock for physical security.

Top 10 Best mini PC for plex media server 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

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.

FAQ