Plex has been around for a while, but a
number of people still do not consider using it. This might be because of the
lack of awareness and understanding of how it works. Many people may think that
it is not too useful. However, if you own a lot of digital movies and songs,
and cannot effectively manage all your media collection, then you should
consider getting Plex.
What is Plex Media Server?
Those who have a large collection of
media know how hard it is to access and browse it. Plex is a popular digital
media player and media management tool which lets the users access their
movies, songs, videos, and images stored on one device(computer) from a
secondary device (computer or mobile). It can be installed for free on
computers running Windows, Mac, and Linux. With Plex, you can also allow your
friends and family members to access your media collection remotely.
Here are the best devices on which you can install Plex Media Server
Plex is compatible with a number of
devices. If you are wondering about which device you should use as a Plex Media
Server, then check out the list given below:
·
Laptop
In order to use a device as a Plex Media
Server, you need processing power. In case the device does not have sufficient
CPU power, then the server will start struggling with transcoding videos and
will not be able to handle multiple users at the same time. If your laptop is
old, then it may not be suitable. But, if your laptop is fairly new with a
decent processor, then you can run Plex on it.
·
Desktop
As Plex uses a lot of power, it is best
to run it on a desktop. You do not need
a high-spec PC for Plex. If multiple people are going to access Plex
simultaneously, then there will be no issues, glitches, lags, or delays.
·
Android TV
The Plex Media Center application was
killed a couple of years ago. After that, it became impossible for Plex to run
on Android devices. But, thankfully, there is an exception. Nvidia has
partnered with Plex, and the devices can now be used as Plex media servers.
·
Raspberry Pi
There are several upsides and downsides
of running Plex Media Server on Raspberry Pi devices. One of the most
significant disadvantages of Raspberry Pi devices is that they do not have
sufficient CPU power. But, one of the most significant advantages is
portability.
·
NAS
Do you wish to access your Plex content
remotely? If yes, then you should consider using NAS drives. If you wish to use
a NAS with Plex, then you should first determine a couple of things. For
instance, you can run the Plex Media Server on the NAS drive, but you will have
to choose a drive which meets the basic requirements.
Conclusion
In case you wish to use Plex just to view
your media content, then it is best to use a laptop or computer. However, if
you plan just to store your files on your NAS and wish to run the Plex Media
Server on another device, then it's not worth going for NAS.
Scarelett Thomas, an
employee currently living in USA and working at a top email service provider
company in the day, and a technical writer at night. I am passionate about
writing troubleshooting tips, beginner’s guides, news and other articles on
varied topics like HP Printer Support, Lexmark Printer Support etc.