9 Best Mini PCs for Plex Servers (October 2026)

The best mini PCs for Plex servers include the KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer for a basic direct-play setup, the GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded for a compact always-on server, and the Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U for a modest media collection.

On this page (5 sections)

1. How we chose mini PCs for Plex servers
2. Compare the best mini PCs for Plex
3. Which mini PCs fit different Plex server setups?
4. What should you check before choosing a Plex mini PC?
5. Which mini PC should you choose for Plex?

The Beelink ME Mini PC is the best mini PC for Plex server use when your priority is a large local library, thanks to six M.2 NVMe slots and named Plex support. If you expect frequent video transcoding, choose a model with more CPU headroom and verify hardware acceleration compatibility before you buy.

A Plex server can be a small, quiet computer, but the right choice depends on how you watch. Direct play, where the client plays a compatible file without conversion, is a lighter job than transcoding video for a device or network that needs a different format.

Use the products below to match processor, storage and network features to your setup. For broader options, see our best mini PCs for home servers guide.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a basic direct-play setup

   KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a compact always-on server

   GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a modest media collection

   Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U

   Best for a multi-display server desk
   Check it
5. 5

   GMKtec M6 Ultra Gaming Mini PC Ryzen

   Best for heavier transcoding workloads
   Check it
6. 6

   Beelink ME Mini PC

   Best for a large local media library
   Check it
7. 7

   KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U

   Best for local playback and drive expansion
   Check it
8. 8

   GEEKOM IT12 Mini PC

   Best for a busy server and desktop
   Check it
9. 9

   BOSGAME E5 Mini PC Ryzen 3 5300U

   Best for a wired home server
   Check it

How we chose mini PCs for Plex servers

The strongest Plex mini PC depends on the server's main job: storing media, serving direct-play streams or transcoding video. We compared the stated processors, memory, storage expansion, network ports and media features, with extra weight on details that relate to a library or video workload.

We did not treat 4K display output as proof of 4K transcoding ability. A display port and a video codec feature describe different tasks, and Plex hardware acceleration also depends on compatible software and settings.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

Compare the best mini PCs for Plex

The Beelink focuses on storage capacity, while the M6 Ultra has the clearest stated codec support for hardware encoding and decoding. Compare the included storage and memory with your expected library before choosing.

Which mini PCs fit different Plex server setups?

Choose the Beelink for a storage-heavy server, the M6 Ultra for more processing headroom, and the G11 for a compact network-focused build. The remaining options fit smaller libraries, mixed home-server duties or desktop use alongside Plex.

1

KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer: Best for a basic direct-play setup

9.7/10Our score

• Intel Celeron N5095
• 16GB LPDDR4X memory
• 256GB M.2 SSD
• M.2 and 2.5-inch drive expansion

The 16GB memory and expansion options suit a basic Plex host with a separate media drive. Its processor is an entry-level choice, so match it to direct play or light use rather than demanding transcoding.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two drive expansion options
• Gigabit Ethernet
• 16GB memory

Cons

• Entry-level processor
• No stated hardware transcoding support

The KAMRUI AK1PLUS is a basic option for a Plex server that mostly sends compatible files to clients without changing them. Its 16GB LPDDR4X memory and 256GB SSD give the operating system and server software a straightforward starting point.

For media storage, it can take an additional M.2 drive and a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or hard drive. That flexibility helps if you want the mini PC to hold some media locally, though the Intel Celeron N5095 is better matched to a modest workload than repeated demanding transcodes.

It has Gigabit Ethernet, which suits a wired home server on a standard network. The product details don't state hardware transcoding support, so check Plex's current requirements if you expect the server to convert video.

Choose it when your clients can direct play most files and you want storage expansion options. For a more general comparison of server roles, see our best mini PC for Linux server guide.

2

GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded: Best for a compact always-on server

9.7/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Dual M.2 SSD slots
• H.265/HEVC support

GMKtec positions the G11 for continuous operation and describes H.265/HEVC support. Dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 slots give it useful room for a compact media server setup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Two M.2 SSD slots
• HEVC support

Cons

• No stated Plex-specific transcoding details
• Media library expansion may require external storage

The GMKtec G11 fits a compact Plex server that may also handle network services. Its dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 SSD slots make it useful for a wired setup with fast local connections.

GMKtec describes the Ryzen Embedded R2514 as designed for continuous operation and says the system supports H.265/HEVC. Those features are relevant to media serving, but they don't confirm how Plex will use hardware acceleration with your chosen operating system.

The G11 includes 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory. Its small footprint and three-display support are secondary benefits if you also use the machine at a desk, while the dual network ports may matter more for server and home-lab use.

Pick it if you want a network-focused mini PC that can run more than Plex. If storage sharing is the main job, compare it with our best mini PC for NAS guide.

3

Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U: Best for a modest media collection

9.6/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, 4 cores and 8 threads
• 16GB DDR4 memory
• 512GB NVMe SSD
• Expandable memory

Its 512GB SSD gives you more local space to start with than several smaller-drive options here. The Ryzen 5 3500U and 16GB memory are a reasonable starting point for a modest server, though transcoding needs depend on your streams and settings.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 512GB NVMe SSD included
• 16GB memory with an upgrade path
• Gigabit Ethernet

Cons

• No stated hardware transcoding support
• One-year warranty

The Getorli Ryzen 5 3500U is a practical fit for a modest media library and everyday server tasks. Its 512GB NVMe SSD provides more included local capacity than the 256GB drives on several options here.

It comes with 16GB of DDR4 memory, expandable up to 32GB. The processor has 4 cores and 8 threads, and Gigabit Ethernet gives you a wired network connection for serving media around the home.

The product details describe smooth media streaming, but don't specify Plex hardware transcoding support. Treat it as a general-purpose Plex host, and check whether your files can direct play on the devices you use most.

Choose it when you want more included SSD space and a mid-range processor for everyday use. If you expect a large collection, plan a separate or expanded drive before filling the system SSD with media.

4

ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U: Best for a multi-display server desk

9.5/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 7330U Pro
• 16GB LPDDR4 memory
• 256GB M.2 SSD with expansion
• Triple-display outputs

The K1 pairs a Ryzen 7330U Pro with storage expansion up to 2TB, making it suitable when the server also needs to drive a local display setup. Its memory is non-expandable, so choose the installed 16GB with your expected server workload in mind.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Storage expansion up to 2TB
• Gigabit Ethernet
• Wake-on-LAN support

Cons

• Memory cannot be expanded
• No stated hardware transcoding support

The ACEMAGIC K1 suits a small server that may also drive a multi-display workstation. Its Ryzen 7330U Pro processor, Gigabit Ethernet and storage expansion up to 2TB give it a capable base for general media serving.

The installed 16GB LPDDR4 memory is non-expandable, so consider other workloads you might run alongside Plex before choosing it. The 256GB SSD can be expanded with an M.2 NVMe or SATA drive.

The K1 supports triple displays through HDMI, USB-C and DisplayPort. That feature is more useful for local desktop work than server streaming, and the product details don't state Plex-specific transcoding support.

Pick it if the mini PC will do double duty at a desk and as a media server. For an automation-focused sibling use, see our best mini PC for Home Assistant guide.

5

GMKtec M6 Ultra Gaming Mini PC Ryzen: Best for heavier transcoding workloads

9.5/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS
• 32GB DDR5 memory
• Hardware encoding and decoding for AV1, HEVC and AVC
• Dual 2.5GbE ports

The Ryzen 5 7640HS, 32GB memory and 1TB SSD give this model room for a larger server workload. Its stated hardware encoding and decoding for AV1, HEVC and AVC may help with compatible video tasks, but Plex support depends on your software setup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Hardware encode and decode for three named codecs
• 32GB memory
• Dual 2.5GbE ports

Cons

• Higher-power processor class than basic server needs
• Confirm Plex and operating-system compatibility for hardware acceleration

The GMKtec M6 Ultra is the strongest fit here when processing headroom matters more than minimal power draw. It combines a Ryzen 5 7640HS, 32GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB SSD.

Its stated hardware encoding and decoding covers AV1, HEVC and AVC. That makes it the clearest option in this group for codec-related video work, though Plex support depends on the software, driver and settings in your setup.

The M6 Ultra also has dual 2.5GbE ports and supports a second M.2 drive. Its 32GB memory can expand to 128GB, which leaves room for other server tasks, virtual machines or a desktop workload.

Choose it if you expect heavier use or want one mini PC for Plex and other demanding jobs. For a simple direct-play server, its processor and memory may be more than you need.

6

Beelink ME Mini PC: Best for a large local media library

9.0/10Our score

• Six M.2 NVMe SSD slots
• Intel N95 processor
• 12GB LPDDR5 memory
• Plex listed among supported media center systems

This is the clearest library-first option because its six M.2 NVMe slots support up to 24TB total capacity, and Plex is among the named media center systems. The Intel N95 and 12GB memory suit a storage-focused server more naturally than a heavy transcoding workload.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Six M.2 NVMe slots
• Plex is named among supported media systems
• Dual 2.5G LAN

Cons

• 12GB memory
• No stated hardware transcoding details

The Beelink ME is the most library-focused pick because it has six M.2 NVMe slots and a stated total capacity of up to 24TB. Plex is named among the supported media center systems, along with Jellyfin and Kodi.

Its Intel N95 processor and 12GB of LPDDR5 memory are suited to a storage-centered setup where clients handle compatible playback. The system also has dual 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

This model's storage capacity stands out, but its product details don't specify hardware transcoding support. If your Plex clients often need video conversion, compare the processor and codec support with your planned stream count before choosing it.

Choose the Beelink when the server's main job is holding and sharing a large local media collection. For more background on network storage, read our guide to what a NAS mini PC needs.

7

KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U: Best for local playback and drive expansion

8.9/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 5425U, 4 cores and 8 threads
• 16GB LPDDR4 memory
• Two M.2 storage slots
• Gigabit Ethernet

Two M.2 slots allow storage expansion for a media library, while the 16GB memory and Ryzen 5425U can handle general server tasks. The stated graphics support 4K video playback, but that does not by itself guarantee Plex transcoding support.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two M.2 storage slots
• 16GB memory
• Gigabit Ethernet

Cons

• 256GB SSD included
• No stated hardware transcoding support

The KAMRUI Pinova P2 works as a local playback and general server option with room to expand storage. It has a Ryzen 5425U, 16GB of LPDDR4 memory and two M.2 slots.

The installed 256GB SSD can be joined by another drive, and the stated combined storage support reaches up to 4TB. Gigabit Ethernet supports a wired connection, while the integrated Radeon graphics are described for 4K video playback.

That playback detail does not confirm Plex transcoding performance. The P2's memory is not described as upgradeable, so account for any other services you want to run on the same machine.

Choose it if you want two internal M.2 storage slots and a mini PC that can also serve as a general desktop. For a NAS-first system with more drive bays, consider the Beelink ME instead.

8

GEEKOM IT12 Mini PC: Best for a busy server and desktop

8.9/10Our score

• Intel Core i3-12300HE
• 16GB DDR4 memory
• 256GB NVMe SSD
• 2.5Gb Ethernet

The 8-core, 12-thread Core i3-12300HE and memory expansion up to 96GB give this mini PC room for a busy server that also runs other tasks. Its 2.5Gb Ethernet can help on a fast wired network, while media storage needs planning beyond the included 256GB SSD.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Processor has 8 cores and 12 threads
• Memory expandable to 96GB
• 2.5Gb Ethernet

Cons

• 256GB SSD included
• No stated Plex hardware acceleration details

The GEEKOM IT12 suits a busier Plex server that will also run other applications. Its Core i3-12300HE has 8 cores and 12 threads, and its DDR4 memory can expand from 16GB up to 96GB.

A 256GB NVMe SSD is included, with additional SATA storage support. The 2.5Gb Ethernet port can fit a fast wired network, while Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4 offer other connection options.

The processor and memory ceiling give it room for more than basic file serving, but the product details don't give Plex-specific codec or hardware acceleration information. Confirm software compatibility and plan separate media storage if your library will outgrow the boot drive.

Pick it for a mixed-use server and desktop that may need additional memory later. If your media library is the priority, compare its expansion path with the Beelink's six M.2 slots.

9

BOSGAME E5 Mini PC Ryzen 3 5300U: Best for a wired home server

8.8/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 3 5300U, 4 cores and 8 threads
• 16GB DDR4 memory
• 512GB NVMe SSD
• Dual 2.5GbE ports

The E5 combines dual 2.5GbE ports with a second M.2 slot, making it a flexible wired server base. Its 512GB SSD and 16GB memory are a practical starting point for a smaller Plex library and other network services.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Second M.2 NVMe slot
• Memory expandable to 64GB

Cons

• No stated hardware transcoding support
• Not designed for demanding 3D work

The BOSGAME E5 is a wired home-server base with dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots. Its Ryzen 3 5300U, 16GB of DDR4 memory and 512GB SSD are a useful starting combination for a modest Plex setup.

The second M.2 slot gives you a path to add storage without replacing the original drive. Memory can also expand to 64GB, which may help if you run other services alongside the media server.

BOSGAME describes it for network server applications and daily productivity, while noting that it isn't designed for demanding 3D rendering or intensive gaming. Its details don't state hardware transcoding support, so check Plex compatibility for your operating system and media formats.

Choose the E5 if wired networking and internal storage expansion matter more than a dedicated transcoding feature. A small library that mostly direct plays should be a more suitable match than a workload with frequent video conversion.

What should you check before choosing a Plex mini PC?

Choose the processor and storage around your playback pattern, then check the network and operating system. A Plex server that mostly direct plays compatible files can have different needs from one that transcodes for several clients.

Is a mini PC for Plex server use better for direct play or transcoding?

A mini PC for Plex server use is easiest to size when you know whether clients can direct play your media. Direct play sends a compatible file as stored, while transcoding converts it for a client's format, resolution or bandwidth.

For direct play, prioritize reliable wired networking, enough storage and a processor suited to your other server tasks. For transcoding, check the specific CPU or GPU acceleration support in Plex and your operating system, along with the codecs your files use.

How much storage does a Plex media library need?

Storage needs depend on your files and how many you keep locally. A 256GB or 512GB system SSD may hold the OS and Plex software, but a larger video library often calls for extra internal or external drives.

The Beelink ME is unusual in this group because it has six M.2 NVMe slots. For any option, check drive compatibility and decide whether you want media on the mini PC or on a separate NAS.

Do Plex servers need 2.5Gb Ethernet?

Many home Plex setups can use Gigabit Ethernet, especially when the server and clients are on a stable wired network. 2.5GbE can help when large files move across a network or when other devices and storage also support that speed.

A faster Ethernet port won't improve every stream. Your router, switch, client connection and internet upload speed still shape performance, particularly for remote viewing.

Should a Plex server stay on Windows or use Linux?

Either can work, but choose an operating system that supports your Plex setup, hardware acceleration and server maintenance habits. Check that the mini PC's network, storage and video drivers are supported before you install a system.

If you want a Linux-based build, our best mini PCs for Linux servers guide compares options for that role. Make sure your chosen model's storage and boot setup fit the operating system you plan to run.

Which mini PC should you choose for Plex?

Choose the Beelink ME if your priority is a large local library and multiple internal M.2 drives. Pick the GMKtec M6 Ultra if you want the strongest stated codec support for hardware video work, and the G11 if dual 2.5GbE and continuous server use matter most.

For a modest direct-play setup, the Getorli and BOSGAME E5 offer 512GB SSDs, while the KAMRUI AK1PLUS and Pinova P2 provide internal storage expansion. Before buying, match your clients, media formats and Plex acceleration needs to the exact system.

If you're still weighing what a mini PC should do in your home, see what is a good use case for a mini PC.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a basic direct-play setup

   KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a compact always-on server

   GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a modest media collection

   Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

How much CPU does a mini PC need for a Plex server?

It depends on whether your clients can direct play your files or the server must transcode them. Direct play places less demand on the CPU, while video transcoding can raise the workload sharply.

For a basic setup, compare entry-level options with the Intel N95 or Celeron N5095.

For more headroom, consider a model with a higher-core processor, and confirm that Plex and your operating system support any hardware acceleration you plan to use.

Is 16GB of RAM enough for a Plex server?

For a small Plex server with a modest number of other tasks, 16GB is a reasonable starting point. Memory needs also depend on the operating system, other services and how many streams run at once.

A larger library does not automatically require more RAM, since media files usually take storage space rather than staying in memory.

How much storage should a Plex mini PC have?

Separate the space for the operating system and apps from the space for movies, shows, music and backups. A 256GB system drive can be a starting point when media lives on separate storage, but a large library needs more capacity.

For a deeper estimate, use our guide to how much storage a mini PC needs.

Can a mini PC transcode 4K video for Plex?

Some mini PCs can handle video work through supported hardware acceleration, but the processor, codec, Plex settings and client all matter. The GMKtec M6 Ultra names hardware encoding and decoding for AV1, HEVC and AVC, while the other options here do not state the same detail.

Check current Plex compatibility for your operating system and confirm the codecs your media uses.

Should a Plex mini PC use Ethernet?

Wired Ethernet is a good choice for a stationary server because it avoids relying on Wi-Fi signal quality. Gigabit Ethernet is enough for many home setups, while 2.5GbE can be useful when the rest of your network and storage also support faster links.

A faster port alone does not make remote streaming faster; your internet connection and client setup still matter.