Server Version#: Last
Player Version#: Last
Hey guys.
I’m having a problem with video playback on Plex.
The problem is this: I have a server on a NAS and a client app on Android TV. When playing a video on the TV, the client app lets you see the bandwidth (if you enable detailed playback statistics in the settings). The bandwidth is good. A video with a bitrate of 50 Mbps starts buffering at 150-200 Mbps for the first few seconds, and then gradually decreases. Everything is fine, but after a week, sometimes two, the bandwidth drops. For the same video, Plex shows a bandwidth of 20-40 Mbps, indicating constant buffering. However, if I delete the app and reinstall it, or simply delete the app’s data and cache, the bandwidth is restored. I’d also like to point out that, for example, Jellyfin doesn’t have this problem. The Dune client app lets you see the bandwidth, and when playing a video, it’s 500-600 Mbps, with the buffer filling up in two seconds. In other SMB video players, the buffer also fills up within two seconds, and there’s no buffering.
I’m ruling out a network issue; I only use direct local playback, without transcoding, and my TCL TV supports it. I’ve tried both Wi-Fi 6 and a wired connection with a 1GB adapter, and it makes no difference.
You might suggest I just switch to Jellyfin or Emby, and you’d be right. They’re good services, and I’ve tried them, but I prefer Plex. In my opinion, it has the best and most user-friendly interface on Android TV. So, I want to figure out what’s wrong with Plex. It’s clearly a client issue; perhaps I’ve missed some settings on the server somewhere.
