Help Me Buy a HTPC/Plex Server

Spootage on 07/11/2022 - 14:02
Last edited 07/11/2022 - 14:03

I am looking for a new PC to replace my 2012 Mac Mini.

I use it as a HTPC in the lounge with the odd browsing of internets and the writing of some Word documents, as well as a Plex sever for the other devices locally in the house.

I have been looking at a current Mac Mini or an Intel NUC, but these are around $1000 and feel like overkill for my needs. I want something in this small form factor.

https://www.apple.com/au/mac-mini/
https://www.mwave.com.au/barebone-systems/barebone-desktops?…

I am happy to store the files on an external drive plugged in via USB so doesn't need a huge amount of space. I do want something QUIET as it will be in the loungeroom while watching Netflix, etc.

Halp!

Computing

Comments

  • scrimshaw on 07/11/2022 - 14:32
    +1

    Could consider a second-hand HP Prodesk with 8th Gen Intel. Not as small as a NUC but at least it's got space for some 3.5" drives and a single slot GPU

    I can also see some old 11th Gen NUCs for sale for $479 though when you factor in the cost of storage and 16GB RAM you're probably looking at $650 for a complete system.

    There's also a ASUS PN51 barebone with Ryzen 3 5300U (Quad core) for $449.10 with the coupon code CA10. Intel is probably better if you want Intel Quicksync feature though.

  • spackbace on 07/11/2022 - 14:34
    +1

    Hmm or go another way, nas + shield + tablet etc for word documents?

  • jizmo on 07/11/2022 - 18:44

    something like this under $100 . Fan.less Just need a wireless keyboard and a word processing app off google play. Wack a USB drive in to the side of it and BAM you got yourself an ultra cheap pretend HTPC
    I use the KT1 and love it.

    • spackbace on 07/11/2022 - 19:00

      Lol that aint gonna act as a media server for the household

  • jizmo on 07/11/2022 - 19:37

    Could get the Beelink GK35 for under $200. I bought the dual LAN one over the Covid period stuck overseas they do run hot from what I can remember. When I returned home I've never used it again.
    https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005004771411618.html?spm=a2…

  • bargaino on 08/11/2022 - 11:10

    I'd have thought the 2012 Mac Mini makes a perfect home server. You could replace HDD with SSD and add RAM if you like, but home server tasks are not demanding.

    Are you also using it as a Plex front-end with HDMI connect to TV? You could get an Apple TV or equivalent for that purpose, while keeping the Mac Mini as the server. It could be moved to another room to eliminate fan noise. The idea of an all-in-one HTPC is very outdated.

    I would get a separate PC for the "odd browsing of internets and the writing of some Word documents", which can sleep when not in use so as to be silent.
    One of the ex-lease micro-PCs that appear here regularly would be perfect.

    • Spootage on 08/11/2022 - 11:29

      Thanks for the reply. I am using it as a Plex front-end too via HDMI to my TV. I am using a Sony X90J which does have Plex so wouldn't need an ATV.

      I also upgraded the SSD, but to a small one. I guess I could just put a bigger SSD and more RAM in the current Mini. I was just worried that it was getting a bit old to warrant doing that.

      • bargaino on 08/11/2022 - 11:38

        A small SSD with large HDD for media collection is fine. Plex server does not need much RAM.
        I'd keep the old Mac as a Plex server. Quiet, low power, and more than enough grunt.

        Do you need another front-end or is the smart TV enough?

        For the lounge desktop: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/search/node/usff

        • Spootage on 08/11/2022 - 11:52

          I think the smart TV will be enough. I think I just need to get on top of the Plex Server better. I've installed it but haven't really configured much.

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