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Looking to set up a Plex media server on a NAS? Check out the best options in 2023, from QNAP to Synology and more. Find the perfect fit for your needs and budget!
Setting up a Plex media server on a NAS is the ultimate solution for storing, organizing, and streaming your media files. With Plex, you can have your own personal Spotify, Google Photos, Netflix, and OneDrive all in one service, without any monthly fees. While Plex itself is free, upgrading to unlock additional benefits like hardware transcoding is worth considering. To set up Plex on a NAS, there are various options available in 2023, such as the QNAP TS-464, QNAP TVS-h674-i3, Synology DiskStation DS224+, ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T), and TerraMaster F2-221. Each NAS has its own unique features, from 4K transcoding support to expandable storage, allowing you to choose the best fit for your specific needs and budget.
Introduction
Setting up a Plex media server allows you to store, catalog, and stream various media files using your own server. It provides a versatile platform to enjoy music, movies, shows, photos, and more, all using the files that you already own. Plex itself is free, but there is an option to upgrade for additional benefits, including hardware transcoding. One of the best ways to set up Plex is by using a network-attached storage (NAS) unit. In this article, we will explore the best options for setting up a Plex media server on a NAS in 2023.
What is a Plex media server?
A Plex media server is a software application that allows you to organize and stream your media files. It acts as a central hub for all your movies, TV shows, music, and photos. With Plex, you can access your media from any device, anywhere, and at any time. It provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to browse and play your favorite media content. Whether you’re using a computer, smartphone, tablet, or smart TV, Plex ensures a seamless streaming experience.
Benefits of setting up a Plex media server
There are several benefits to setting up a Plex media server:
- Versatile platform for storing and streaming media: With Plex, you can consolidate all your media files in one place and easily access them from multiple devices. It eliminates the need to switch between different apps or devices to find and play your favorite content.
- Consolidation of media files: Instead of having your movies, TV shows, music, and photos scattered across different devices or storage devices, Plex allows you to bring everything together in one organized library. This makes it easy to find and enjoy your media collection.
- No monthly subscription fee: Unlike many streaming services, Plex itself is free to use. You don’t have to pay a monthly subscription fee to access and stream your own media files. This makes it a cost-effective solution for enjoying your favorite movies and shows.
- Optional upgrade for additional benefits: While the basic version of Plex is free, there is an option to upgrade to Plex Pass. Plex Pass unlocks additional features and benefits, such as hardware transcoding, mobile sync, offline access, parental controls, and more. The upgrade is optional, allowing you to choose the features that best suit your needs.
- Hardware transcoding: Plex supports hardware transcoding, which enables you to stream high-definition media files even with limited processing power. This is especially useful when streaming 4K content, as it reduces buffering and ensures smooth playback.
Why use a NAS for Plex?
A NAS is an ideal choice for setting up a Plex media server for several reasons:
- Storage capacity: NAS units offer large storage capacities, allowing you to store a vast amount of media files. They come with multiple bays, which can be populated with hard drives of your choice. This means you can start with a lower capacity and easily expand as your library grows.
- Centralized storage: By using a NAS, you centralize your media storage in one device. This eliminates the need to store media files on different devices or external hard drives. It simplifies the management and organization of your media library.
- Redundancy and data protection: Most NAS units support RAID configurations, which provide redundancy and data protection. This means that even if one of your hard drives fails, your media files will remain intact. It adds an extra layer of security and ensures that your precious data is safe.
- Low power consumption: NAS units are designed to be energy-efficient. They consume less power compared to a traditional desktop computer or server. This not only reduces your electricity bills but also contributes to a greener environment.
- Remote access: NAS units often come with built-in remote access capabilities. This means you can access your media files from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, you can stream your favorite content without any limitations.
The best Plex NAS options in 2023
In 2023, there are several top-notch NAS options available for setting up a Plex media server. Here are some of the best choices:
QNAP TS-464
Overview
The QNAP TS-464 is a powerful NAS unit that offers great performance and versatility. It features a quad-core Intel processor, 4GB of RAM (expandable up to 8GB), and four drive bays for storage. It comes with a user-friendly interface and supports a wide range of apps, including Plex.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The QNAP TS-464 is capable of transcoding 4K media files in real-time. This means you can stream high-quality content to your devices without any hiccups.
- Expandable storage options: With four drive bays, the TS-464 provides ample storage capacity. You can start with a few hard drives and easily expand your storage as needed.
- Intel CPU: The quad-core Intel processor ensures smooth performance and efficient transcoding capabilities. It is capable of handling multiple streams simultaneously without any lag.
Price
The QNAP TS-464 is priced competitively, making it an affordable option for those looking to set up a Plex media server on a NAS. It offers a great balance between performance and affordability.
QNAP TVS-h674-i3
Overview
The QNAP TVS-h674-i3 is a high-end NAS unit that delivers exceptional performance and features. It is powered by an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM (expandable up to 64GB), and six drive bays for storage. It offers a wealth of features and is specifically optimized for media streaming.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The TVS-h674-i3 is capable of transcoding 4K media files flawlessly. It ensures smooth playback and eliminates buffering issues when streaming high-definition content.
- Expandable storage options: With six drive bays, this NAS provides plenty of room for all your media files. You can start with a few hard drives and easily expand your storage capacity as your library grows.
- Intel CPU: The powerful Intel Core i3 processor delivers outstanding performance and handles multiple streams with ease. It ensures a seamless streaming experience for all your devices.
Price
The QNAP TVS-h674-i3 is priced higher compared to entry-level NAS units, but it offers exceptional performance and features that make it worth the investment. If you require a NAS that can handle heavy workloads and demanding transcoding tasks, this is an excellent choice.
Synology DiskStation DS224+
Overview
The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is a compact and reliable NAS unit designed for home and small office use. It is equipped with a quad-core Intel processor, 4GB of RAM (upgradeable up to 8GB), and four drive bays. It offers an intuitive user interface and seamless integration with Plex.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The DS224+ is capable of transcoding 4K media files on the fly. It ensures smooth playback and eliminates the need for manual transcoding before streaming.
- Expandable storage options: With four drive bays, the DS224+ provides sufficient storage capacity for most home users. You can easily add more hard drives as your storage needs grow.
- Intel CPU: The quad-core Intel processor delivers excellent performance and ensures fast data access. It allows multiple devices to stream media simultaneously without any performance issues.
Price
The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is priced competitively, making it a budget-friendly option for Plex enthusiasts. It offers a reliable and feature-rich solution for setting up a media server on a NAS.
ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T)
Overview
The ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T) is a high-performance NAS unit with a sleek and modern design. It is powered by a quad-core Intel processor, 8GB of RAM (expandable up to 32GB), and four drive bays. It offers a comprehensive set of features and excellent compatibility with Plex.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The Lockerstor 4 Gen2 is capable of transcoding 4K media files in real-time. It ensures smooth playback and enhances your viewing experience.
- Expandable storage options: With four drive bays, this NAS provides ample storage capacity for your media files. You can easily add more hard drives to accommodate your growing library.
- Intel CPU: The quad-core Intel processor delivers powerful performance and handles multiple streams effortlessly. It ensures smooth playback and eliminates buffering issues.
Price
The ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T) is priced competitively, making it a great value for money option. It offers impressive performance and features that cater to the needs of Plex users.
TerraMaster F2-221
Overview
The TerraMaster F2-221 is a compact and affordable NAS unit that offers excellent performance and features. It is equipped with a quad-core Intel processor, 2GB of RAM (expandable up to 4GB), and two drive bays. Despite its small size, it packs a punch in terms of performance and compatibility with Plex.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The F2-221 is capable of transcoding 4K media files smoothly. It ensures high-quality streaming and eliminates any issues with playing back your favorite content.
- Expandable storage options: With two drive bays, this NAS provides sufficient storage capacity for most home users. You can easily add more hard drives to accommodate your growing media collection.
- Intel CPU: The quad-core Intel processor ensures fast data processing and seamless streaming. It delivers reliable performance and allows multiple devices to access your media library simultaneously.
Price
The TerraMaster F2-221 is one of the most affordable options for setting up a Plex media server on a NAS. It offers excellent value for money and is an ideal choice for users with a limited budget.
Synology DiskStation DS223j
Overview
The Synology DiskStation DS223j is a user-friendly NAS unit designed for home users and beginners. It features a dual-core processor, 512MB of RAM, and two drive bays. While it may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end NAS units, it still provides a reliable solution for Plex streaming.
Features
- 4K transcoding support: The DS223j is capable of transcoding 4K media files to ensure smooth playback. While it may not handle multiple streams simultaneously, it still delivers a decent streaming experience for single-device usage.
- Expandable storage options: With two drive bays, this NAS offers sufficient storage capacity for basic media libraries. You can easily add more hard drives as your storage needs grow.
- User-friendly interface: The DS223j comes with Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, which provides a simple and intuitive interface. It is easy to set up and navigate, making it suitable for beginners.
Price
The Synology DiskStation DS223j is one of the most affordable options for setting up a Plex media server on a NAS. It is a budget-friendly choice for users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use.
Factors to consider when choosing a Plex NAS
When choosing a Plex NAS, you should consider the following factors:
- Performance: Look for a NAS with a powerful processor and sufficient RAM to handle the transcoding and streaming requirements of Plex. This ensures smooth and uninterrupted playback.
- Storage capacity: Consider the number of drive bays and the expandability options offered by the NAS. Ensure that it can accommodate your current media files and has room to grow as your library expands.
- Transcoding capabilities: If you plan to stream 4K content or have multiple devices accessing your media server simultaneously, ensure that the NAS supports hardware transcoding. This ensures optimal streaming performance.
- Compatibility and app support: Check the compatibility of the NAS with Plex and ensure that it is officially supported. Additionally, consider other apps and features provided by the NAS, as they can enhance your media streaming experience.
- Price: Set a budget for your Plex NAS and choose one that offers the best balance of performance, features, and affordability. Consider the long-term costs of additional hard drives and any optional upgrades or subscriptions.
Conclusion
Setting up a Plex media server on a NAS provides a convenient and versatile solution for storing, cataloging, and streaming your media files. With numerous options available in 2023, such as the QNAP TS-464, QNAP TVS-h674-i3, Synology DiskStation DS224+, ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T), TerraMaster F2-221, and Synology DiskStation DS223j, you can choose a Plex NAS that suits your specific needs and budget.
Consider factors such as performance, storage capacity, transcoding capabilities, compatibility, and price when making your decision. With the right Plex NAS, you can enjoy a seamless streaming experience and access your media library from anywhere, at any time. So go ahead and set up your own Plex media server on a NAS to unlock the full potential of your media collection.
