Best NAS for Plex 4k Streaming

[Enquiries]

I want to move my Plex streaming from my Synology DS3617xs. All things being equal, what would be the perfect system for me to handle the workload of 4k files on Plex?

[ed]

If you’re moving Plex 4K streaming off the Synology DS3617xs and want a more efficient system for 4K playback—especially with support for hardware transcoding—then the main thing to look for is a NAS with an Intel CPU that includes Quick Sync Video. This will give you smoother playback and better performance, especially when transcoding is needed.

Within your $400–$800 range, here are a few of the best options:

QNAP TS-464
This is one of the best all-around options right now for Plex 4K use at home. It features an Intel N5105 CPU with Quick Sync support, 4 bays (expandable), and can run Plex natively with hardware transcoding. It also includes 2.5GbE and an HDMI out, which might be useful if you ever want direct playback.

Terramaster F4-424 or F4-424 Pro
The F4-424 Pro version has an N100 processor with solid transcoding support and plenty of performance overhead. It’s cheaper than QNAP but still gives you a good balance of Plex usability and hardware power.

Minisforum MS-01 or Beelink SER5 Pro (DIY NAS)
If you’re open to a small-form PC/NAS build, these are mini PCs with powerful CPUs that destroy typical NAS units in raw Plex performance, and still fall within your budget. Pair one with Unraid or TrueNAS SCALE and you’ll get far better value per dollar.

If your Plex setup doesn’t require transcoding (i.e., you’re direct playing everything), then most of the CPU load drops significantly, and even lower-end NAS models will work fine. But if you want the flexibility and future-proofing of being able to transcode 4K HEVC content smoothly, stick to systems with Intel Quick Sync (or dedicated GPU options, though that’s a different price class).