As a media enthusiast, you deserve nothing but the best when it comes to enjoying your vast collection of movies, TV shows, and music. Plex, a powerful and user-friendly media server application, has gained immense popularity for its ability to stream content across devices. But, to get the most out of Plex, you need a solid NAS server that can store and manage your media efficiently.
No more compromising on quality or content – this is the digital revolution you’ve been waiting for. In this blog, we will explore the best NAS (Network Attached Storage) servers for Plex in 2023 that will elevate your Plex game, making it a breeze to organize, store, and stream your entire media collection.
1: Synology DiskStation DS920+
The Synology DiskStation DS920+ is a powerful and versatile NAS server designed for home users and small businesses. It offers excellent performance, scalability, and a comprehensive set of features, making it a top choice for Plex users.
Features and specifications
- Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core Processor
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 8 GB)
- 4 drive bays supporting up to 64 TB of storage
- 2 x M.2 NVMe SSD slots for cache acceleration
- 2 x 1GbE LAN ports
- Supports hardware transcoding for 4K video playback
- DSM operating system with built-in Plex Media Server app
2: QNAP TVS-672XT
The QNAP TVS-672XT is a high-performance NAS server that offers a robust set of features and advanced capabilities. It’s well-suited for media enthusiasts and professional users looking for a reliable Plex server with excellent performance.
Features and specifications
- Intel Core i3-8100T Quad-Core Processor
- 8 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 64 GB)
- 6 drive bays supporting up to 96 TB of storage
- 2 x M.2 PCIe SSD slots for cache acceleration
- 2 x 1GbE LAN ports and 1 x 10GbE LAN port
- Supports hardware transcoding for 4K video playback
- QTS operating system with built-in Plex Media Server app
3: ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 AS6604T
The ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 AS6604T is a feature-packed NAS server that offers an impressive combination of performance and functionality. Boasting a user-friendly interface and an extensive array of functionalities, it serves as the perfect option for Plex users seeking a potent and straightforward NAS server.
Features and specifications
- Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core Processor
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 8 GB)
- 4 drive bays supporting up to 64 TB of storage
- 2 x M.2 NVMe SSD slots for cache acceleration
- 2 x 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Supports hardware transcoding for 4K video playback
- ADM operating system with built-in Plex Media Server app
4: TerraMaster F2-221
The TerraMaster F2-221 is an affordable and efficient NAS server that is perfect for home users and small businesses looking for a reliable Plex server. Given its simplicity and reliable performance, it is an excellent choice for those with budget constraints.
Features and specifications
- Intel Celeron J3355 Dual-Core Processor
- 2 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 6 GB)
- 2 drive bays supporting up to 32 TB of storage
- 1 x M.2 SSD slot for cache acceleration
- 2 x 1GbE LAN ports
- Supports hardware transcoding for 4K video playback
- TOS operating system with built-in Plex Media Server app
5: Dell PowerEdge T40
The Dell PowerEdge T40 is a powerful and versatile NAS server that is suitable for users with advanced requirements. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a NAS server that can handle both Plex and other demanding applications.
Features and specifications
- Intel Xeon E-2224G Quad-Core Processor
- 8 GB DDR4 ECC RAM (expandable up to 64 GB)
- 4 drive bays supporting up to 64 TB of storage
- 1 x PCIe slot for additional storage or network cards
- 1 x 1GbE LAN port
- Supports hardware transcoding for 4K video playback (additional GPU may be required)
- Compatible with various operating systems, including FreeNAS and Unraid, which support Plex Media Server
6: Synology DiskStation DS220j
The Synology DiskStation DS220j is an entry-level NAS server that offers a user-friendly experience and a good set of features for those new to NAS servers and Plex. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a simple and cost-effective solution for their Plex server.
Features and specifications
- Realtek RTD1296 Quad-Core Processor
- 512 MB DDR4 RAM
- 2 drive bays supporting up to 32 TB of storage
- 1 x 1GbE LAN port
- Supports software transcoding for HD video playback
- DSM operating system with built-in Plex Media Server app
Factors to Consider When Choosing a NAS Server for Plex
- Performance
A high-performance NAS server is essential for the smooth and uninterrupted streaming of your media content. Ensure that the NAS server you choose has a powerful processor, sufficient RAM, and supports hardware transcoding for optimal Plex performance.
- Storage capacity
Consider the size of your media collection and future growth when selecting a NAS server. Opt for a NAS server with enough drive bays and storage capacity to accommodate your current and future media storage needs.
- Scalability
Choose a NAS server that offers scalability in terms of RAM and storage expansion. This will enable you to upgrade your NAS server as your Plex library grows, ensuring continued optimal performance.
- Connectivity
A NAS server with multiple LAN ports and high-speed network connections will provide faster streaming and better overall performance. Look for NAS servers with 2.5GbE or 10GbE LAN ports for improved network speeds and reduced buffering.
Conclusion
Finding the right NAS server for Plex in 2023 is all about understanding your specific requirements and selecting a device that caters to those needs. As you explore the top choices we have shared in this blog, remember to weigh the features, storage capacity, and price against your personal preferences. With a top-notch NAS server supporting your Plex setup, you can look forward to countless hours of entertainment at your fingertips. Dive into your media library like never before, and happy streaming!
