Here are the strongest boards available to you if you require a more potent, server-grade motherboard with loads of expansion options & a few extra features. The load on the processor increases significantly as more devices that Plex supports require video transcoding for 4K resolution. Most of the time, you might wish to utilize a GPU to get the most out of every component.
Numerous motherboards for AMD & Intel processors were put to the test, and the top ones were chosen. No matter what CPU you choose, we made sure to evaluate motherboards for Plex & Home Theater systems based on their functionality, style, form, and price.
Top Products:
Best Mobo for Plex Server
ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus
- Has wifi and Bluetooth
- Compatible for PCIEs gen 3 and 4
- Durable
- Reasonable price
Best ASUS Motherboard for Plex Server
ASUS ROG Strix B550-A
- Supports 4.0 PCIe
- Looks nice and sturdy
- runs with stability
- Reasonable price
Best Budget Motherboard for Plex Server
MSI MPG B560I Gaming
- Sturdy motherboard
- Has E-Z Debug
- 2x M.2 storage options
- Easy to install
As a result, customers looking for the highest level of component performance should choose more expensive motherboards. We’ve chosen a few best motherboard for plex server & reviewed them for your needs using our skills in boards plus our knowledge of Plex media. Let’s get going.
Things To Consider Before Buying the best motherboard for plex server
In this article, we have listed the best options of a motherboard for a plex server keeping in mind the following aspects that ensure its compatibility and give you the best experience of running a plex server for your device.
Core and threads of the processor
The cores and thread of the processor you are running for your computer determine the performance of your PC. For general use or multitasking, eight cores and threads are sufficient. But the greater number of cores always means better performance.
As more cores yield better performance for the processor, it will also improve the performance of the server. But be ready to spend more on that while buying the CPU.
PCIe slots on the motherboard
It’s better to get the motherboard with PCIe slots (peripheral components interface Express) for connecting peripheral devices and improving the graphics as well as the sound of videos.
For Plex users, more power is required for better video and audio quality. Therefore, you cannot depend on the pre-installed graphics for the Plex server and should consider using additional graphic cards or sound cards.
Processor’s clock speed
Finding out the clock speed of the processor while buying it will let you estimate how fast it can execute and run applications. The higher clock speed of your processor will ultimately improve the performance of everything running on your PC including the media server.
This clock speed is the figure calculated in gigahertz and is mentioned in the product description of every processor.
Brand of the CPU and motherboard
The two most popular brands of CPU, Intel, and AMD are normally the option for users now. And for the motherboard, ASUS and MSI are manufacturing the best motherboards. You can select any model of these companies that has the most suitable features for the Plex server, to get the most out of it.
Motherboard’s heat dissipation for efficiency
When choosing the motherboard, check the reviews and make sure that it has fans that can dissipate the heat effectively to keep the temperature as low as possible for the efficient performance of the CPU as well as all other components.
You can go for the motherboard with VRM cooling and heatsinks for the Plex server as heavy power usage can cause the board to heat up quickly.
Cache
The cache of the CPU is important for watching shows and movies to retrieve the data immediately. Many models of Intel and AMD offer different RAM speeds for improved speed.
Top Best Motherboard for Plex Server In 2023
As we have discussed all the necessary aspects of motherboard and processors for better performance of the server, you can now choose any one suitable motherboard from the following after reading their reviews and pros and cons.
| Award | Design | Retailer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best MSI Motherboard for Plex Server |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Mobo for Plex Server | Best Pick | view on amazon | |
| Best Budget Motherboard for Plex Server | Budget Pick | View | |
| Best Mid-Range Motherboard for Plex Server |  | view on amazon | |
| Best ASUS Motherboard for Plex Server | Staff Pick | view on amazon | |
| Best High-End Motherboard for Plex Server |  | view on amazon |
MSI MPG Z690 Edge
Best MSI Motherboard for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: MSI | Chipset: Intel Z170 | Socket: LGA 1700 | Form Factor: ATX | Memory accommodation: 128 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 5000 MHz |
PROS
✓Has additional useful features
✓Smooth performance
✓Looks aesthetic
✓Durable
CONS
✗There is only one port for a USB 3 connection
With 5000 MHz base speed and 5600 MHz overclocked speed, MSI MPG Z690 Edge offers reliable performance. As it is compatible with the LGA 1700 socket, I installed it for my Ryzen i7 – 12700k and it required no effort to start running.
It is also one of the best motherboards for media servers. I use a plex server and with the heavy power usage of Plex, I am quite amazed by the smooth and stable performance of my processor with this motherboard.
Thanks to the favorable design of the heatsink and M.2 shield freezer for keeping the temperature low and letting the motherboard run efficiently to control everything. You can stream videos and audio for hours running the plex server without getting the motherboard heated up. It ensures professional usage of computers with the upgraded network solution.
No wonder it is a reliable motherboard for gaming as it has 128 GB of memory accommodation that allows you to run heavy games on it. With the compatibility for PCIEs gen 4, the speed can be maximized for NVMe SSDs. What else do you expect from a motherboard?
No issues with the settings for network connection, BIOS, booting, or overclocking made the process of installing it easier and quicker. Even if you have never installed a motherboard before, just read the instructions and go for it.
The construction seems very durable and everything seems to be made of good quality. I am sure it will last for a long time for both its construction and performance. All the components are user friendly and useful including the USB ports and fan connectors. Therefore, it is reliable for professional and gaming purposes. Also, MSI has included a USB memory stick which comes in handy.
To dissipate the heat, the fans work efficiently and keep the motherboard cool enough to run with stability even at high power usage. This motherboard has made my PC run faster and smoother due to its amazing fans and high quality heatsinks.
For the looks, I would give it a 10. Although general users don’t care about the looks, If you are a gamer, you would certainly love the RGB dragon logo. It does seem expensive but with all the great features, and comparison with other motherboard models, this motherboard is the best!
ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus
Best Mobo for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ASUS | Chipset: AMD 570x | Socket: AM4 | Form Factor: ATX | Memory accommodation: 128 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 4400 MHz |
PROS
✓Has wifi and Bluetooth
✓Compatible for PCIEs gen 3 and 4
✓Durable
✓Reasonable price
CONS
✗Dim RGB
✗USB C header is missing
I have a R7 3700x and this ASUS TUF Gaming X570 Plus is exactly what I needed in a processor. It has 128 GB of memory storage, which is ideal for gamers like myself. Plus, with the memory speed of 4400 MHz, this proved to be one of the best motherboards for Plex Servers which most gamers prefer for high quality graphics and sound for gaming.
Plex server demands a processor with a motherboard that doesn’t heat up quickly as more power means more heat. To make it reliable, the TUF gaming motherboard has a Pro Cool socket and Digi plus VRM that ensures its long lasting efficient performance.
Mourning it was easy for me but I faced the issue of windows 10 not picking up the wifi drivers and also the bios needed some changes in settings. But if you know how to do the settings, it won’t take long for you. Once these issues were resolved, my PC was running smoothly.
Don’t depend on the manuals for installing it, the manuals are not helpful at all and are difficult to understand. If you are a beginner, it would be better to watch tutorials or get someone to help you out with installing it. Moreover, It has wifi and Bluetooth features for gaming purposes which was the main thing that made me get into buying it. Also, this is compatible with PCIe gen 3 and gen 4, it was compatible with my Ryzen model.
For my Ryzen 7 3700x, it allows smooth running even at overclocked speed. Thus reliable with many models of Ryzen. However, mounting it might be different for different models. However, I liked the aesthetic look of this motherboard. Being a gaming board, it had to be a nice looking board. Besides, it is a well constructed motherboard and all of the components are the best in quality.
The RGB is not for those looking for some bright light, it is a dim light that doesn’t add to the look like an RGB is intended to. But for me, it was fine as I was not looking to buy a motherboard with lights. All that mattered to me was that it is a durable motherboard and is priced reasonably for the performance it offers.
MSI MPG B560I Gaming
Best Budget Motherboard for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: MSI | Chipset: Intel B560 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: Mini ITX | Memory accommodation: 64 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 5200 MHz |
PROS
✓Sturdy motherboard
✓Has E-Z Debug
✓2x M.2 storage options
✓Easy to install
CONS
✗The fan ports should have been placed somewhere else
With a 5200 MHz memory speed, the MSI MPG B560I gaming motherboard is one of the best motherboard for plex servers. It has an improved power design than the previous models of MSI. for the power it has 8 pin power connectors and Core Boost as well as DDR4 Boost.
Therefore, it ensures the best performance with stability and speed. Good for plex server users who need a motherboard that can function efficiently under high power usage. The LGA 1200 socket makes it compatible with 10th and 11th Gen Intel processors. Also, being a gaming board, it has PCIe 4.0 and Gen 4 x 4 M.2 slots for improving the experience of gamers.
Even with the 64 GB DDR4, it runs smoothly. I never experienced any crashes in my months of experience with this motherboard. It also has 2.5G LAN and offers a wifi connection for Intel processors. Besides the wifi, the great features make it a reliable motherboard for all users.
Not only is this motherboard easy to install but also with the EZ- debug feature of MSI, you can detect any problem with the setup easily. It for sure saves a lot of time during the installation as well as for any problem afterward. Besides that, setting the Bios and overclocking is also easy.
The build quality is amazing except for the Realtek built for sound. That doesn’t bother me but you might consider that if you need a board for using for a long period of time. No major cons or quality issues, and is worth the price. Plus, it costs less than many models but offers the same performance with additional features.
It includes the best heatsinks with fans that offer an effective Thermal solution and lets the motherboard stay cool enough to perform for hours with stability. Moreover, the four modes of fans, performance, balanced, silent, and custom, all work perfectly.
Lastly, It has cool RGB lights that make the board look amazing in the case. The board overall is solid and has all the features to make it reliable. I would highly recommend it to you if your processor is compatible with it. Price is fair for the performance you get.
ASUS ROG Strix B560-A
Best Mid-Range Motherboard for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ASUS | Chipset: Intel B560 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Memory accommodation: 128 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 5000 MHz |
PROS
✓Durable construction and performance
✓Has more features than previous models
✓Fairly priced
✓Looks good
CONS
✗M.2 slots are not compatible with every processor
With the amazing performance of ASUS ROG Strix B560-A, I was happy to get the best motherboard fora server that I use. Plex server’s performance relies on a compatible processor and motherboard and with my Ryzen 5000, this motherboard proved to be highly reliable for Plex media server.
The 5000 MHz of speed ensures smooth and stable performance even when streaming 4k videos with heavy power usage. The graphics and sound are always perfect no matter how much power the media server requires.
However, It is not only easy to install but also the setup comes ready for the Ryzen 5000 series as well as intel core 10th and 11th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors. Therefore, the installation process saves a lot of time for the users.
It has two M.2 slots, and a USB port for 3.2 Gen 2×2 USB Type C. However, the M.2 slots won’t work with every processor like Intel 10th Gen and Ryzen 5000. It only works for 11th Gen Intel. Furthermore, it supports HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 output which makes it reliable for gaming. The smooth networking solution adds to its reliability for gaming as well as professional purposes.
It is a solid motherboard built at the best quality with a ProCool power connector and durable capacitors that support multicore processors. Besides that, the good VRMs add to the performance as well. If you are into boards with fascinating RGB lights and good looks, this board will meet your expectations for that too, and will look amazing in every case.
Compared to a Z motherboard, this board lacks overclocking capabilities like the Z560 chipset, still, the performance is not so bad and it runs without crashes at activated XMP. But it has features such as wifi 6, Bluetooth, and ethernet which are not to be found in the other models of B550.
Overall a great motherboard at a reasonable price and outperforms many other models at the same price. I have been using it for over a year and no issue was found.
ASUS ROG Strix B550-A
Best ASUS Motherboard for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ASUS | Chipset: AMD B550 | Socket: AM4 | Form Factor: ATX | Memory accommodation: 128 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 2666 MHz |
PROS
✓Supports 4.0 PCIe
✓Looks nice and sturdy
✓runs with stability
✓Reasonable price
CONS
✗No RGB
✗The bottom RGB header could have better placement
ASUS ROG Strix B550-A is the best motherboard for the price. It runs smoothly with a memory speed of 2666 MHz and allows the processor to work efficiently. I have a Ryzen 5600x CPU and was looking for a MOBO that would serve the best for running the Plex media server on my computer. Up to my mark, the motherboard is reliable for running the heavy software effectively.
Having AMD AM4 sockets and also PCIe 4.0 makes this board compatible with zen 3 Ryzen 5000 and all other models with the compatible sockets. If you are a professional gamer, this will be a perfect choice for you as it supports HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 output to ensure the best connection for gaming purposes.
Also, it has dual M.2 slots making it more user friendly for professionals. The motherboard is super easy to install and the settings are simple even for first time builders. As it comes ready for the Ryzen 5000 series, I didn’t have to update bios. Besides, it comes with a Type C port for 1 Type C connector but it doesn’t come with the metal adapter for connection, you will have to buy it separately.
The board seems durable as it is well built and all the parts including the ports are constructed well. It looks good with my case and has silver construction that makes the rgb reflect even better in the case making it more attractive. But it doesn’t have the RGB with it. Moreover, the VRMs work perfectly fine.
What made me buy this board was the silver and metal look and the great features at this price. It has all the additional features one can expect from a motherboard to have for gaming purposes including the fan heads, and RGB software, and supports a 4.0 PCIe SSD that most of the previous models don’t.
Although I don’t have the wifi and Bluetooth the other features compensate for that and one can use alternatives for wifi and Bluetooth as well. Because compared to those that are wifi and Bluetooth enabled, this motherboard is way cheaper. In short, a great board that offers high stability and various features at a good price and with no major cons.
ASUS ROG Strix X570-I
Best High-End Motherboard for Plex Server
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ASUS | Chipset: AMD 570 | Socket: AM4 | Form Factor: Mini ITX | Memory accommodation: 64 GB | Type: DDR4 | Memory speed: 2133 MHz |
PROS
✓Performs well
✓Solid build
✓Rgbs are great
✓Has all required Ports and features
CONS
✗Heats up with heavy gaming
ASUS ROG Strix X570-I runs efficiently and is the best choice for those using Plex servers. It can smoothly run at high power with a memory speed of 2133 MHz and 64 GB of memory storage capacity.
It has an AM4 socket and thus is compatible with all Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 series and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs. I bought this for gaming and paired it with a Ryzen 5900 in an NR200P case and am very satisfied with the purchase. As it is a mini ITX board, make sure that it will fit in your case before buying.
Furthermore, It has PCIe 4.0 and 2x M.2 slots like other great mobos. Even after using it for over 6 months, I didn’t notice any crashes. Although the board has active VRM fans and does dissipate the heat with solid heatsinks and is designed well, running the board for a long period of time for heavy games did make it get hot.
It gets heated up like most of the ASUS X570-I models. So if you are a Plex server user and a gamer, be ready for that. Also, for this reason, I can’t say much about how durable it will be.
Besides the performance, the board is made solid and all the parts are placed perfectly. It supports multi-core processors with the ProCool II power connector and durable capacitors. Besides, It has all the required USB Ports for connectivity and also HDMI 2.0 as well as the DisplayPort 1.4. The USB connections are for both Type-A and Type-C connectivity but Type C is only one.
With the Intel Gigabit Ethernet and wifi 6, it is indeed a professional gaming board. It fits properly with the compatible processors in the case. Installing and setting up is very easy and doesn’t take long. I just had to figure out how to set it up for overclocked speed. However, I didn’t face any issues with the booting up of the PC.
Also, I tried updating the BIOs with USB and it was impossible with this motherboard. But as it is the latest model it has the latest BIOS already installed in it. So that wasn’t an issue for me.
RGB lights are great for making it look aesthetic and can be adjusted easily using the software for them. Keep in mind that it is an expensive board but has all the features and performs well for professional gamers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What motherboards are good for servers?
The following motherboards are reliable for running media servers efficiently:
ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus
MSI MPG B560I Gaming
MSI MPG Z690 Edge
ASUS ROG Strix B550-A
What is the best motherboard for the plex server?
ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus is the best board for Plex servers for efficient performance in the above list.
Can you game on a server motherboard?
Yes, you can game on a server motherboard. You will just need suitable graphics and memory with the best compatible processor for it.
Key Takeaways:
ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus and MSI MPG Z690 Edge are the best motherboard for plex server users. They have sufficient memory speed and storage capacity to let the server software run effectively. While for 11th Gen Intel processorsASUS ROG Strix B560-A is the most compatible motherboard with stable performance. Also, ASUS ROG Strix X570-I motherboards have great features but they cost you a lot.