Setting up a Plex Media Server is a great way to enjoy your media library from anywhere. But to really get the most out of it, you need a reliable and fast storage solution. A Network Attached Storage (NAS) device is the perfect choice, providing ample storage space and the speed you need to stream your movies and shows without buffering.
With so many NAS devices on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve compiled a list of the 7 best NAS devices for Plex Media Server with Gigabit Ethernet, taking into account factors like performance, features, and price.
Whether you’re a casual home user or a serious media enthusiast, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks offer a balance of features and affordability, so you can find the perfect NAS for your needs.
These devices are specifically chosen to offer gigabit Ethernet connectivity, ensuring you get the most out of your Plex Media Server by enabling fast and reliable data transfers for smooth streaming. Get ready to discover the best NAS devices that will elevate your Plex experience!
You can find more information on 32 Best Network Attached Storage for Mac Users
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| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Synology DiskStation DS923+ |  |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| QNAP TS-h973AX |  |
4.0 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUSTOR AS6704T |  |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TerraMaster F5-422 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Synology DiskStation DS923+
A powerful and feature-rich NAS designed for demanding users, offering excellent performance, reliability, and a wide range of applications.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Storage: 4x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 108TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 10GbE SFP+ port
- Operating System: Synology DSM
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance with fast read and write speeds
- Comprehensive feature set, including Plex Media Server, file sharing, backup, and surveillance
- User-friendly interface and intuitive management tools
- Powerful hardware with ample processing power and RAM
- Supports 10GbE networking for blazing-fast data transfer speeds
Reasons to avoid :
- Relatively expensive compared to other NAS devices
- Can be overkill for basic home users
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS with advanced features
- You plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, file sharing, or surveillance
- You want a reliable and scalable storage solution with excellent performance
Don't buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You only need a basic NAS for simple file storage and backup
- You don't need the advanced features and performance offered by the DS923+
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is a powerful and versatile NAS that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and a wealth of features. It's a great choice for demanding users who need a high-performance storage solution for Plex Media Server, file sharing, backup, and more. While it might be a bit expensive compared to other NAS devices, its superior performance, comprehensive features, and user-friendly interface make it a worthwhile investment. If you're looking for a top-tier NAS that can handle anything you throw at it, the DS923+ is a compelling option.
QNAP TS-h973AX
A high-performance NAS designed for demanding users, featuring a powerful processor, ample RAM, and a comprehensive feature set.
Specifications :
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700G
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (expandable to 128GB)
- Storage: 8x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 128TB)
- Network: 2x 10GbE SFP+ ports, 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Operating System: QNAP QTS
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional performance for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server and large-file transfers
- Powerful hardware with ample processing power and RAM
- Extensive feature set, including virtualization, containerization, and AI capabilities
- 10GbE networking for blazing-fast data transfer speeds
- Excellent software ecosystem with a wide range of applications
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive compared to other NAS devices
- May be overkill for basic home users
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS with advanced features
- You plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, virtualization, or large-file transfers
- You want a powerful and scalable storage solution with excellent performance
Don't buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You only need a basic NAS for simple file storage and backup
- You don't need the advanced features and performance offered by the TS-h973AX
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-h973AX is a powerhouse NAS that delivers exceptional performance, scalability, and a comprehensive feature set. It's ideal for demanding users who need a high-performance storage solution for Plex Media Server, virtualization, large-file transfers, and more. While it comes with a premium price tag, its powerful hardware, extensive features, and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a top-tier NAS. If you need the best of the best and budget isn't a concern, the TS-h973AX is a strong contender.
ASUSTOR AS6704T
A powerful and versatile NAS designed for small businesses and power users, offering a wide range of features and excellent performance.
Check this blog on 22 Best Network Attached Storage for Small and Medium Businesses
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Core i5-11400
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 32GB)
- Storage: 4x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 64TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 10GbE SFP+ port
- Operating System: ASUSTOR ADM
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server and large-file transfers
- Wide range of features, including virtualization, containerization, and surveillance
- User-friendly interface and intuitive management tools
- Supports 10GbE networking for blazing-fast data transfer speeds
- Flexible hardware with ample processing power and RAM
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to other NAS devices
- May be overkill for basic home users
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS with advanced features
- You plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, virtualization, or large-file transfers
- You want a reliable and scalable storage solution with excellent performance
- You prefer the ASUSTOR ADM operating system
Don't buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You only need a basic NAS for simple file storage and backup
- You don't need the advanced features and performance offered by the AS6704T
Bottom Line:
The ASUSTOR AS6704T is a powerful and versatile NAS that delivers exceptional performance, a comprehensive feature set, and a user-friendly experience. It's a great choice for small businesses, power users, and anyone who needs a high-performance storage solution for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, virtualization, large-file transfers, and more. While its price might be a bit steep, its combination of performance, features, and flexibility makes it a compelling option for those seeking a robust and reliable NAS. If you need a powerful and versatile NAS with a comprehensive feature set and a user-friendly interface, the AS6704T is a great choice.
TerraMaster F5-422
Explore further with 22 Best Network Attached Storage for Mac Users
A compact and affordable NAS with a focus on simplicity and ease of use, offering a balance of performance and affordability.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron J4125
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 8GB)
- Storage: 5x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 80TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Operating System: TerraMaster TOS
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price compared to other NAS devices
- Compact and stylish design
- User-friendly interface and intuitive management tools
- Decent performance for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- Supports a wide range of applications
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited hardware specifications compared to other NAS devices
- Performance may be inadequate for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server
- Lacks advanced features like virtualization and containerization
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- You prefer a compact and stylish design
Don't buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server or virtualization
- You require advanced features like containerization or surveillance
- You prioritize performance over affordability
Bottom Line:
The TerraMaster F5-422 is an affordable and user-friendly NAS that offers a balance of performance and affordability. It's a great choice for users who need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup. While its hardware specifications are limited compared to other NAS devices, it delivers decent performance for its price and comes with a user-friendly interface. If you're looking for an affordable NAS with a simple and intuitive interface, the F5-422 is a solid option. However, if you need high performance, advanced features, or plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, you'll want to consider other options.
Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra
A reliable and feature-rich 2-bay NAS designed for home users, offering a balance of performance, affordability, and ease of use.
Specifications :
- CPU: Marvell Armada 388
- RAM: 2GB DDR3
- Storage: 2x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 16TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Operating System: WD My Cloud OS
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price compared to other NAS devices
- User-friendly interface and easy setup
- Reliable performance for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- Supports cloud connectivity and remote access
- Compact and stylish design
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited hardware specifications compared to other NAS devices
- Performance may be inadequate for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server
- Lacks advanced features like virtualization and containerization
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- You prioritize affordability and ease of use
Don't buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server or virtualization
- You require advanced features like containerization or surveillance
- You prioritize performance over affordability
Bottom Line:
The Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra is a reliable and affordable 2-bay NAS that offers a good balance of performance, features, and ease of use. It's a great choice for home users who need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup. While it doesn't have the powerful hardware or advanced features of some other NAS devices, it delivers decent performance for its price and is easy to set up and use. If you're looking for an affordable and reliable NAS with a user-friendly interface, the My Cloud EX2 Ultra is a good option. However, if you need high performance, advanced features, or plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, you'll want to consider other options.
Read more about this on 18 Best Network Attached Storage for Streaming
Seagate Personal Cloud 2-Bay
A compact and affordable NAS designed for home users, offering a user-friendly interface and a focus on cloud connectivity and remote access.
Specifications :
- CPU: Marvell Armada 388
- RAM: 2GB DDR3
- Storage: 2x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 16TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Operating System: Seagate Personal Cloud OS
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price compared to other NAS devices
- Compact and stylish design
- User-friendly interface and easy setup
- Supports cloud connectivity and remote access
- Excellent for mobile users
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited hardware specifications compared to other NAS devices
- Performance may be inadequate for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server
- Lacks advanced features like virtualization and containerization
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- You prioritize cloud connectivity and remote access
Don't buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server or virtualization
- You require advanced features like containerization or surveillance
- You prioritize performance over affordability
Bottom Line:
The Seagate Personal Cloud 2-Bay is a compact and affordable NAS that offers a user-friendly interface and a focus on cloud connectivity and remote access. It's a great choice for home users who need a simple and easy-to-use NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup, especially if they want to access their files remotely. While it doesn't have the powerful hardware or advanced features of some other NAS devices, it delivers decent performance for its price and is easy to set up and use. If you're looking for an affordable NAS with strong cloud connectivity and a user-friendly interface, the Seagate Personal Cloud 2-Bay is a good option. However, if you need high performance, advanced features, or plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, you'll want to consider other options.
Netgear ReadyNAS 424
A reliable and affordable 2-bay NAS designed for home users and small businesses, offering a user-friendly interface and a focus on ease of use and security.
Specifications :
- CPU: Marvell Armada 385
- RAM: 1GB DDR3
- Storage: 2x 3.5" SATA drive bays (supports up to 16TB)
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Operating System: ReadyNAS OS 6
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price compared to other NAS devices
- Reliable and secure platform with strong data protection features
- User-friendly interface and easy setup
- Supports a wide range of applications
- Ideal for small businesses and home users
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited hardware specifications compared to other NAS devices
- Performance may be inadequate for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server
- Lacks advanced features like virtualization and containerization
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You have a limited budget
- You need a reliable and secure NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup
- You prioritize ease of use and security
Don't buy it if:
- You need a high-performance NAS for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server or virtualization
- You require advanced features like containerization or surveillance
- You prioritize performance over affordability
Bottom Line:
The Netgear ReadyNAS 424 is a reliable and affordable 2-bay NAS that offers a user-friendly interface and a focus on ease of use and security. It's a great choice for home users and small businesses who need a simple and reliable NAS for basic tasks like file sharing and backup. While it doesn't have the powerful hardware or advanced features of some other NAS devices, it delivers decent performance for its price and is easy to set up and use. If you're looking for an affordable and secure NAS with a user-friendly interface, the ReadyNAS 424 is a good option. However, if you need high performance, advanced features, or plan to use it for demanding tasks like Plex Media Server, you'll want to consider other options.
Choosing the right NAS for your Plex server is essential for a smooth and enjoyable streaming experience. With gigabit Ethernet, you can expect fast file transfers and seamless playback, even for high-resolution media. The NAS options we've reviewed cater to various needs and budgets, from budget-friendly models to those with powerful hardware for demanding workloads.
Consider your specific requirements when making your decision. If you need a NAS solely for Plex, a smaller model with sufficient storage might suffice. However, if you plan to use it for other tasks like backups, file sharing, or even running a home security system, you'll need a more powerful NAS with ample storage capacity.
Remember to factor in the cost of hard drives. While the NAS unit itself might seem affordable, the cost of drives can quickly add up, especially for large storage needs. Additionally, consider the features that matter to you, such as RAID support for data redundancy, built-in Plex server apps, and remote access capabilities.
Find more on 7 Best Network Attached Storage for High-Performance Streaming with RAID Support
Ultimately, the best NAS for your Plex server is the one that fits your budget, storage needs, and specific requirements. We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision and enhance your Plex media experience.