Best Dedicated Server For Plex

Ever dreamed of creating your personal Netflix, a treasure trove of movies, TV shows, and home videos available at your fingertips, accessible from anywhere? That dream is within reach with Plex, a powerful media server software.

However, running Plex smoothly, especially when streaming to multiple devices or transcoding high-resolution content, demands a robust engine under the hood: a dedicated server.

This guide is designed for those new to the world of dedicated servers, individuals eager to ditch buffering and embrace seamless streaming, all while maintaining complete control over their media library.

Why a Dedicated Server for Plex Matters

Using a general-purpose computer or NAS device for Plex can quickly lead to performance bottlenecks.

A dedicated server, on the other hand, is built specifically for handling the heavy lifting of media serving: transcoding, streaming, and managing a vast library.

This means smoother playback, less buffering, and the ability to share your media with friends and family without impacting your primary computer's performance.

Top 5 Dedicated Servers for Plex: A Comparison

Choosing the right server can feel overwhelming. Here's a comparison table to get you started:

Detailed Reviews

Dell PowerEdge R740xd

A powerhouse known for its exceptional storage capacity and processing power.

Its dual Intel Xeon processors can handle multiple simultaneous streams with ease, even in 4K.

Consider this if you have a large media library and need maximum performance.

HP ProLiant DL380 Gen10

Another enterprise-grade server offering excellent reliability and scalability.

The HP ProLiant DL380 Gen10 provides a balance of performance and features, suitable for demanding Plex users.

Its robust management tools are beneficial for users comfortable with server administration.

Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650

Offering a similar level of performance and reliability to the Dell and HP options.

The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 is a solid choice for those seeking a dependable server with ample expansion capabilities.

It's well-suited for users with growing media libraries and future streaming needs.

Intel NUC 13 Pro Kit

A compact and energy-efficient option that packs a surprising punch.

The Intel NUC 13 Pro Kit is a great choice for users with smaller media libraries and less demanding streaming requirements.

It's easy to set up and consumes less power than traditional rack servers.

Beelink SER7 Mini PC

The Beelink SER7 is a surprisingly powerful mini PC equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor and 32GB of RAM.

Its small form factor and ease of setup make it an attractive option for users who want a dedicated Plex server without the bulk or complexity of a traditional server.

The included 1TB SSD provides ample storage for a moderate media library, and its price point makes it a budget-friendly choice.

Used vs. New: Weighing the Options

Buying a used server can save you a significant amount of money, but it also comes with risks.

Pros of Used Servers: Lower cost, access to enterprise-grade hardware at a fraction of the price.

Cons of Used Servers: Limited or no warranty, potential for wear and tear, outdated components.

Pros of New Servers: Full warranty, latest technology, peace of mind.

Cons of New Servers: Higher cost, potentially overkill for basic Plex setups.

Reliability Ratings by Brand

Reliability is paramount when choosing a server.

Dell, HP, and Lenovo are generally considered highly reliable brands, especially in their enterprise-grade server lines.

Intel and Beelink are also known for reliability in their smaller form factor PCs.

Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying

1. CPU Power: Ensure the CPU has enough cores and processing power to handle transcoding (converting video formats on the fly). Look for benchmark scores online.
2. RAM: 16GB of RAM is a good starting point, but 32GB or more is recommended for multiple simultaneous streams or 4K content.
3. Storage: Consider your current and future media library size. Scalability is key; choose a server that allows you to add more storage easily.
4. Network Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet is a must. Consider 10GbE if you plan on streaming ultra-high-definition content to multiple devices simultaneously.
5. Operating System Compatibility: Ensure the server supports the operating system you plan to use for Plex (Windows, Linux, etc.).

Summary

Choosing the best dedicated server for Plex requires careful consideration of your needs, budget, and technical expertise.

Enterprise-grade servers like Dell PowerEdge, HP ProLiant, and Lenovo ThinkSystem offer unparalleled performance and scalability but come with a higher price tag and complexity.

Mini PCs like Intel NUC and Beelink SER7 provide a more affordable and user-friendly option for smaller media libraries and less demanding streaming scenarios.

Remember to weigh the pros and cons of used versus new equipment, and always prioritize reliability.

Ready to Unleash Your Inner Media Mogul?

Take the time to research each option thoroughly and choose the server that best fits your specific needs and budget.

Don't hesitate to consult with online communities and forums for advice and recommendations.

Start building your ultimate Plex media server today!