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10 Best Servers For Plex 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Hewlett Packard Enterprise HPE ProLiant ML30 Gen10 Plus Tower Server, Xeon E-2314 4-Core 2.8GHz CPU, 32GB DDR4 Memory, 4TB SSD Storage, RAID, iLO

The HPE ProLiant ML30 Gen10 Plus Tower Server appears to be a robust option, especially for small businesses or remote offices that need a reliable server for Plex. Its Xeon E-2314 4-Core 2.8GHz CPU can handle the processing demands, and with Turbo up to 4.5GHz, it should manage multiple Plex streams without significant lag. The inclusion of 32GB DDR4 memory ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,366
Processor (CPU)
Storage
Form Factor

Most important from
3 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The server delivers noticeably faster performance compared to previous models, making it a strong upgrade choice.
Storage
Setting up the four SSDs with HP VROC was straightforward and hassle-free, simplifying RAID configuration.
Form Factor
The absence of a DVD drive is hardly missed, reflecting modern usage trends and streamlined hardware.
#2
10.0 score

Hewlett Packard Enterprise HPE ProLiant MicroServer Gen10 Plus v2 Ultra Micro Tower Server for Small Business, Xeon E-2314 2.8GHz, 32GB Memory, 4TB SSD Storage, RAID, iLo

The HPE ProLiant MicroServer Gen10 Plus v2 is a solid choice for a small business server that can handle Plex media streaming well. Its Intel Xeon E-2314 processor with 4 cores and 2.8 GHz speed (boosting up to 4.5 GHz) offers reliable power to transcode and stream multiple videos smoothly. The 32GB of fast DDR4 RAM is more than enough for Plex's memory needs, ensuring stable performance even with several users. Storage comes as 4TB of SSD space spread across four 1TB drives, offering quick access to your media files and improved loading times compared to traditional hard drives. This also supports RAID, which can help protect your data with redundancy.

#3
10.0 score

Hewlett Packard Enterprise ProLiant MicroServer Gen11 Tower Server, Intel Xeon E-2414 Processor, 16GB Memory, External 180W US Power Supply (HPE Smart Choice P78521-005)

The HPE ProLiant MicroServer Gen11 is a compact and quiet tower server powered by a 4-core Intel Xeon E-2414 processor running at 2.6 GHz, making it capable of handling Plex media streaming and related tasks smoothly for small to medium-sized setups. It comes with 16GB of fast DDR5 memory, which can be upgraded to 128GB if you need to run more applications alongside Plex or support multiple users.

Rating
10.0
Form Factor
Memory (RAM)
Operating System

Most important from
11 reviews

Form Factor
Its compact size is a standout feature, being about the size of a toaster, making it ideal for small spaces without sacrificing power.
Memory (RAM)
Expanding RAM to 32GB and adding large disks sets the server up for smooth Plex streaming and multitasking.
Operating System
After updating firmware, the server runs modern operating systems like Microsoft Server 2022 seamlessly, ensuring compatibility.
Network Connectivity
Remote management via the iLO enablement kit is highly valued, allowing full control and troubleshooting from anywhere.

Top 10 Best Servers For Plex 2026 in the United States

Supermicro SYS-5019D-4C-FN8TP Xeon D-2133IT Quad Core Front I/O Short Depth 1U Server, 2X SFP+, 2X 10GBase-T, 4X GbE LAN

Processor (CPU): Intel Xeon D-2123IT quad-core 2.2-3.0GHz
Memory (RAM): up to 512GB ECC
Storage: four 2.5" or two 3.5" drives
Network Connectivity: two 10G SFP+, two 10GBase-T, 4 gigabit
Form Factor: 1U rackmount
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Buying Guide for the Best Servers For Plex

When choosing a server for Plex, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance for your needs. Plex is a media server software that allows you to stream your personal media library to various devices. The right server will depend on the size of your media library, the number of simultaneous streams, and the types of media you plan to stream. Here are the key specifications to consider and how to choose the best fit for you.
Processor (CPU)The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your server and is crucial for handling multiple tasks and transcoding media files. Transcoding is the process of converting media files into a format that is compatible with the device you are streaming to. For basic use with a few simultaneous streams, a mid-range CPU with 4-6 cores should suffice. For more demanding use, such as multiple 4K streams or a large number of simultaneous users, a high-end CPU with 8 or more cores is recommended. Consider your typical usage patterns and choose a CPU that can handle your peak demands.
Memory (RAM)RAM is important for the smooth operation of your server, especially when handling multiple streams or large media libraries. For basic use, 4-8GB of RAM is usually sufficient. For more intensive use, such as running additional applications or handling a large number of simultaneous streams, 16GB or more may be necessary. Assess the size of your media library and the number of users to determine the appropriate amount of RAM.
StorageStorage is where your media files will be kept, so it's important to have enough space to accommodate your library. There are two main types of storage: HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) and SSDs (Solid State Drives). HDDs offer larger capacities at a lower cost, making them suitable for large media libraries. SSDs are faster and more reliable but come at a higher cost per gigabyte. For a balance of speed and capacity, consider using an SSD for your operating system and frequently accessed files, and an HDD for bulk storage. Estimate the size of your media library and choose storage accordingly.
Network ConnectivityA strong and stable network connection is essential for streaming media smoothly. Look for servers with Gigabit Ethernet ports to ensure fast and reliable wired connections. If you plan to use Wi-Fi, ensure your server supports the latest Wi-Fi standards (such as Wi-Fi 6) for the best performance. Consider the layout of your home and the distance between your server and streaming devices to determine the best network setup.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) you choose can affect the ease of use and compatibility with Plex. Popular choices include Windows, macOS, Linux, and dedicated NAS (Network Attached Storage) operating systems. Windows and macOS are user-friendly and widely supported, while Linux offers more customization and control. NAS operating systems are designed specifically for media servers and often come with additional features. Consider your familiarity with different operating systems and the specific features you need when making your choice.
Form FactorThe form factor of your server refers to its physical size and shape. Options range from compact mini PCs to larger tower servers. A smaller form factor is ideal if you have limited space or want a discreet setup. Larger servers typically offer more expandability and better cooling, which can be important for high-performance setups. Think about where you will place your server and how much space you have available when choosing the form factor.

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