You have a growing library of movies, TV shows, and home videos scattered across hard drives. You want to stream them to every TV, tablet, and phone in your house without buffering or format issues. That is where a dedicated Plex media server comes in, and finding the best mini PC for Plex can make all the difference. In this review, we focus on the GMKtec G3S Mini PC, a compact powerhouse that handles 4K transcoding and multiple simultaneous streams. Whether you are a casual viewer or a media hoarder, this guide will help you decide if this mini PC fits your needs. For more options, check out our guide on best mini PC for everyday use.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Mini PC for Plex

Processor Performance for Transcoding

The heart of any Plex server is its CPU. When you stream to a device that does not support the original video format, Plex must transcode the file in real time. This process is CPU intensive. Look for a processor with strong single-core performance and support for modern codecs like AV1 and HEVC. The GMKtec G3S uses the 12th Gen Intel N95, which handles 4K transcoding smoothly for most home setups.

For a deeper look at processors in compact systems, read our best mini PC for home office article. It covers similar CPU considerations.

RAM and Storage Capacity

Plex recommends at least 4GB of RAM for basic transcoding, but 8GB or more is ideal for multiple streams and metadata caching. The G3S comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM, which is plenty for a household with up to three concurrent streams. For storage, a fast SSD ensures quick boot times and responsive library scanning. The included 256GB SSD is sufficient for the operating system and Plex metadata, though you will want external drives for your media library.

Connectivity and Networking

A stable network connection is vital for streaming. Look for Gigabit Ethernet and reliable Wi Fi. The G3S offers both, with a Gigabit RJ45 port and Wi Fi 5. Dual HDMI 2.0 ports support 4K@60Hz output, which is useful if you want to connect the mini PC directly to a TV or monitor. Bluetooth 5.0 also allows you to pair wireless peripherals without a mess of cables.

For more on connectivity in compact devices, see our Electronics category page.

Final Thoughts

After evaluating the GMKtec G3S Mini PC, we can confidently say it is one of the best mini PCs for Plex in 2026. Its Intel N95 processor delivers reliable transcoding, while the 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD provide a smooth out of the box experience. If you need a budget friendly Plex server that handles 4K streaming without breaking a sweat, this is it. For a different use case, such as a home office setup, consider the GMKtec G3S Mini PC Computers Intel N95 Processor; but for Plex, it remains our top recommendation. Either way, you get a compact, quiet, and capable machine that will serve your media needs for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the GMKtec G3S handle 4K Plex transcoding?

Yes, the Intel N95 processor supports hardware decoding for modern codecs like HEVC and AV1. This allows the G3S to transcode 4K video streams efficiently for most home networks.

How many simultaneous Plex streams can this mini PC support?

With 8GB of RAM and the N95 CPU, the G3S can handle two to three simultaneous 1080p transcodes or one 4K transcode. Direct play streams require far less power, so you can have more concurrent users if they use compatible clients.

Do I need to upgrade the RAM or storage for Plex?

For most users, the stock 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are sufficient for the operating system and Plex metadata. However, if you plan to store media on the internal drive, you will need to add external USB storage or upgrade the SSD.

Is the GMKtec G3S quiet enough for a living room?

Yes, the G3S uses a fanless or low noise cooling design. It runs quietly even under load, making it suitable for placement near a TV or in a media cabinet without distracting fan noise.