That server has the ability to transcode files so that they can be played on target devices that don't have the requisite codec.įor instance, if you're playing a movie on an iPad, but the tablet lacks the codecs for that media file, Plex will transcode that file natively on the NAS and deliver a version that can play on the iPad. It doesn't let you transcode though, so if you need that particular feature, you will need to get an older model like the DS220+. Synology's DiskStation DS220+ illustrates this point perfectly - the two-bay NAS server features the Ryzen R1600 and handles Plex native streaming without breaking a sweat. Thankfully, the biggest NAS manufacturers - Synology, QNAP, and ASUSTOR - deliver models catered for Plex media streaming. For one thing, Plex transcoding is a very CPU-intensive task, so you will need to look at NAS enclosures that have a powerful chipset.

There are plenty of options if you want the best NAS for home use, and you can choose between entry-level picks that have a single or two drive bays, and there are four-bay models that are designed to last.īut if you're in the best Plex server, there are a few additional points to consider.

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