4 Best NAS for Plex in 2024
As we move further into the digital age, the ability to store and stream media content efficiently becomes increasingly important. For those who require a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device that seamlessly integrates with Plex Media Server, 2024 brings a variety of options that stand out. Here are the four best NAS choices for Plex enthusiasts looking to bolster their home media experience.
1. Synology DiskStation DS1823xs+
Synology consistently delivers with its DiskStation series, and the DS1823xs+ is no exception. This powerhouse is equipped with an AMD Ryzen V1500B processor, providing exceptional performance for both 4K and 1080p video transcoding. With 8 bays, expandable memory up to 32GB, and high-speed storage options including NVMe SSD cache, the DS1823xs+ can handle large media libraries with ease. The inclusion of two 10GbE ports ensures rapid data transfer speeds, making this NAS an excellent choice for avid Plex users.
2. QNAP TVS-h1288X
QNAP’s TVS-h1288X is another top contender for those seeking premium storage solutions. Sporting a high-performance Intel Xeon W-1250 six-core processor and up to 128GB of DDR4 ECC memory, it’s designed to handle intensive tasks without a hitch. The NAS offers a unique blend of eight 3.5″ HDD bays for bulk storage and four 2.5″ SSD slots for caching or additional high-speed storage, yielding impressive performance enhancements when streaming high-definition content on Plex.
3. Asustor Lockerstor Gen2 AS6708T
The Asustor Lockerstor Gen2 AS6708T takes third place with its robust hardware and user-friendly interface. Its Intel Celeron quad-core processor combined with up to 64GB of RAM provides ample power for Plex media streaming. With eight drive bays supporting both HDDs and SSDs, it offers plenty of flexibility for expanding libraries. The inclusion of 2.5GbE ports adds faster network capabilities ensuring smoother playback across devices.
4. TerraMaster F5-422
Rounding out the list is the TerraMaster F5-422, which offers excellent value for money while still providing solid performance for Plex streaming. Underneath its sleek design lies a quad-core Intel Celeron processor capable of transcoding both H.264/H.265 formats seamlessly. Its five bays can accommodate large storage capacity while also allowing SSD caching to boost performance further. While it may not boast the same high-end specs as others on this list, it delivers more than enough capability for majority of home users at an attractive price point.
Each of these NAS devices provide outstanding performance, reliability, and expandability, making them ideal candidates for running a Plex Media Server in 2024. Whichever model you choose will be largely dependent on your specific needs and budget – but you can rest assured that any of these options will serve as the heart of your home entertainment system with distinction.