Adam ConoverJan 8, 2023
Home Plex server update / Q: I have decided affirmatively to go the Mac Mini route. My preference is to make use of old hardware, so I'm eyeing the 2014 i5 with an SSD, which OWC i selling for < $200. Will this be enough horsepower to run Plex and occasionally transcode? I plan to only store 1080p media, and I'd like to give access to a few friends so they can enjoy my collection. Will the i5 do the job or should I just get an M1 Mini now so I don't outgrow it too soon? https://eshop.macsales.com/configure-my-mac/UAEG2FS3XX2XXXA
Configure your own Apple Mac mini (2014) at OWC

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Show threadMega “Byte” Matt Jan 8, 2023
@adamconover that Mac mini will last you many years, still. No need to upgrade, unless you plan on doing work on it. For server stuff (like this) you will not notice a difference over the network. 4K HDR stuff should work fine as well, since that cpu supports those displays.
Tip: try to use Ethernet rather than WiFi. That’s a big performance gain you can get for free.
Show threadAdam ConoverJan 8, 2023
@megamatt Okay, I'm going to trust you on this! I'm definitely going to use Wifi. And yes, I'm hopeful that I'll have to transcode very little, since I'll be using standard file formats.
Show threadMega “Byte” Matt Jan 8, 2023
@adamconover video standards (and support for them) has come a long way since DivX (jeez, remember that?).
Show threadDimerHunton :toucan:Jan 9, 2023
@megamatt @adamconover Chiming in that I bought a 2012 MacMini solely for Infuse (not Plex, but similar), I have it connected via Ethernet and it serves me 4K content without any issues.
Show threadAdam Conover
@dimerhunton @megamatt Awesome. Okay, thank you! I'm going to try the 2014 first though. It's just a lot more fun to truly repurpose old tech than to buy anything made in the last two years...
Jan 9, 2023 at 1:21amWeb