If you’re building a media server setup in 2025, choosing the right streaming device is critical—especially if you use Plex to manage your personal movie, music, and TV libraries. Plex offers a clean interface, multi-device support, and transcoding—but not every streaming box is built to handle it well.
This guide walks you through the top streaming devices for Plex, whether you’re using it as a media server, client, or both.
What Makes a Great Plex Streaming Device?
To run Plex efficiently in 2025, look for:
Hardware transcoding support
Gigabit Ethernet (for reliable 4K streaming)
Expandable storage
Plex client and/or server capabilities
Broad codec support (H.264, HEVC, etc.)
Best Overall: NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
Built-in Plex Media Server (no PC required)
Transcodes 4K files on the fly
USB 3.0 for external storage and libraries
Dual-band Wi-Fi + Ethernet
AI upscaling and Dolby Vision/Atmos
Why It Wins: The Shield TV Pro is the only device with both server and client functionality in one compact box. Ideal for both beginners and power users.
Best Value: Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen)
Ultra-smooth Plex client experience
High-quality playback via direct play
Limited server use (requires external NAS or server)
Why It’s Great: For Apple users, it’s the smoothest Plex interface with AirPlay and Siri support.
Best Budget Option: Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Ultra-smooth Plex client experience
High-quality playback via direct play
Limited server use (requires external NAS or server)
Why It’s Great: For Apple users, it’s the smoothest Plex interface with AirPlay and Siri support.
Best for Server Use: Intel NUC + Shield TV Combo
Intel NUC handles Plex server (Windows/Linux)
Shield TV Pro acts as premium client
Why It Works: A powerful solution for large libraries and multiple users.
Best for Network Streaming: Roku Ultra
Supports 4K direct play
USB port for basic local playback
Ethernet included
Plex Transcoding: Do You Need It?
Transcoding is required when:
File formats don’t match the client device
Bitrate exceeds playback capability
You need audio conversion (e.g., DTS to AAC)
Shield TV’s Tegra X1+ processor can handle most transcoding natively.
Storage Options for Plex
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro: External USB drive, NAS, or shared network folder
Apple TV: Relies on external server (Mac, Synology, etc.)
Firestick: No local storage—requires streaming from network
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
| Use Case | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| All-in-One Device | NVIDIA Shield TV Pro |
| Best Client Only | Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) |
| Most Affordable | Fire TV Stick 4K Max |
| Custom Server | Intel NUC + Shield TV |
If you’re serious about managing your own streaming library, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro remains unmatched in 2025.