Help on choosing NUC

Plex Media Server
1

Hello,
I’m looking for some advices on choosing my futur Plex Server.
I currently have an HTPC with a pretty old configuration (i3-4430 / 8GB RAM) that works “fine” with 1080p content. But I’m thinking on changing my HTPC to a smaller PC like a NUC.
I don’t need a crazy machine. All I’m asking is to be able to play 4k content with subs in local and 1080p content for maybe 1 or 2 friends in remote.

I don’t wanna spend a lot of money on this so I looked at second hand NUC/Mini-PC and selected 3 models that look interesting.

  • NUC11TNKi5 (i5-1135G7 4core @2.4 GHz)
  • Asrock BOX-1165G7 (i7-1165G7 4core @2.8 GHz)
  • NUC Hades Canyon NUC8I7HNK (i7-8705G 4core @3.1 GHz)

I would like to have your recommendations on these 3 models. In particular, if there is any interest in choosing an 11th generation Intel CPU that has Iris Xe graphics for Plex use (and maybe some Cloud Gaming with Nvidia GeForce Now) or an 8th generation CPU with a higher clock speed would be more interesting.

Thank you !

2

Without a Plex Pass and the desire for 4K I would say none of the above. https://support.plex.tv/articles/201774043-what-kind-of-cpu-do-i-need-for-my-server/

I would stay away from the NUC8I7HNK because of the hybrid graphics, it is old enough that Intel will stop supporting it sooner than later.

The Asrock is most likely to have the fewest performance issues.

3

If you want to transcode 4K HDR, you’ll need a Plex Pass. FWIW, a post on Reddit says a lifetime Plex Pass is on sale for $90 USD.

Either the NUC11 or Asrock would make a fine Plex server. They both have Intel Xe graphics and similar PassMark ratings (i5-1135G7, i7-1167G7)

Of the three you list, the Hades Canyon would be my last choice (purely on technical grounds, as you don’t list cost). It will transcode & tonemap 4K HDR if you’ve a Plex Pass. However, it consumes more power. The i7-8705G is a 65 watt CPU and the others are roughly half that. They will only draw that level of power when running full out, not when idling, or doing something relatively easy such as transcoding audio, but it is something to consider.

4

Hello,

Thanks to both of you for the clarification! I’m planning on subscribing to the Plex Pass, so I think I’ll go with either the NUC11 or the Asrock BOX. :slight_smile:

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