F5F Stay Refreshed Software Operating Systems Inquiries regarding Plex

Inquiries regarding Plex

Inquiries regarding Plex

N
NooahFNA
Junior Member
Find
42
02-12-2025, 05:46 PM
#1
I’m thinking about converting my old desktop into a media server using Plex. I have some questions for those who’ve tried it before.

1. The machine is an Athlon 64 3800+, a 2.4Ghz single-core processor with around 2GB of DDR2 RAM. It meets the minimum requirements, but will it run smoothly?
2. The Plex app is free to download, while the Android and iOS versions cost $5. Is the streaming version available for free?
3. Can I purchase the app once so multiple family members can use their own accounts to access the server, or is it limited to one account?
4. Do you have any suggestions for alternatives? Thanks for reading, and I’m open to any Plex advice you have.
Reply
Reply
N
NooahFNA
02-12-2025, 05:46 PM #1

I’m thinking about converting my old desktop into a media server using Plex. I have some questions for those who’ve tried it before.

1. The machine is an Athlon 64 3800+, a 2.4Ghz single-core processor with around 2GB of DDR2 RAM. It meets the minimum requirements, but will it run smoothly?
2. The Plex app is free to download, while the Android and iOS versions cost $5. Is the streaming version available for free?
3. Can I purchase the app once so multiple family members can use their own accounts to access the server, or is it limited to one account?
4. Do you have any suggestions for alternatives? Thanks for reading, and I’m open to any Plex advice you have.

Reply
Reply
G
g_ft
Member
Find
170
02-13-2025, 02:28 PM
#2
1. Depends what you consider well. 1080p and well encoded yes.. 4k no 2. yep just set up as a network drive 3. not sure sorry 4. nope plex is amazing. I run it as a jail in my Freenas and it works wonders
Reply
Reply
G
g_ft
02-13-2025, 02:28 PM #2

1. Depends what you consider well. 1080p and well encoded yes.. 4k no 2. yep just set up as a network drive 3. not sure sorry 4. nope plex is amazing. I run it as a jail in my Freenas and it works wonders

Reply
Reply
E
EthanLG
Member
Find
162
02-24-2025, 11:11 PM
#3
1. If the server does not have to transcode it will be perfectly fine, It could probably transcode some things though. 2. The server creates a local webpage on your network that allows streaming and you can still use a shared network drive. (Also there is a free desktop HTPC app) 3. If you have plex premium (or whatever they call it) then yes but that is $149 or $5 a month 4. Personally other than setting up network drives I cant think of an alternative. Do note that it does support DLNA streaming so you could use a Third party app if you want.
Reply
Reply
E
EthanLG
02-24-2025, 11:11 PM #3

1. If the server does not have to transcode it will be perfectly fine, It could probably transcode some things though. 2. The server creates a local webpage on your network that allows streaming and you can still use a shared network drive. (Also there is a free desktop HTPC app) 3. If you have plex premium (or whatever they call it) then yes but that is $149 or $5 a month 4. Personally other than setting up network drives I cant think of an alternative. Do note that it does support DLNA streaming so you could use a Third party app if you want.

Reply
Reply
C
CAMOOO
Member
Find
225
03-05-2025, 02:19 AM
#4
1. This CPU can't handle HD conversion with that processor. Plex suggests a minimum of 1500 Passmark for 720p and 2000 for 1080p. Your CPU scores 1005, which means it can only stream HD to a PC that supports all video formats and has the necessary containers installed. Avoid devices like Roku, iPads, iPhones, Android, or anything with subtitle files.
2. Local streaming is free.
3. You must purchase the app for each device you use outside of a PC. Individual accounts require a monthly subscription, which isn't appealing.
4. Upgrade your hardware—consider an Athlon x4 860k or FX-6300 for smooth transcoding. Ensure your network uses cat6 cables and a gigabit router if you plan to stream 1080p.
Reply
Reply
C
CAMOOO
03-05-2025, 02:19 AM #4

1. This CPU can't handle HD conversion with that processor. Plex suggests a minimum of 1500 Passmark for 720p and 2000 for 1080p. Your CPU scores 1005, which means it can only stream HD to a PC that supports all video formats and has the necessary containers installed. Avoid devices like Roku, iPads, iPhones, Android, or anything with subtitle files.
2. Local streaming is free.
3. You must purchase the app for each device you use outside of a PC. Individual accounts require a monthly subscription, which isn't appealing.
4. Upgrade your hardware—consider an Athlon x4 860k or FX-6300 for smooth transcoding. Ensure your network uses cat6 cables and a gigabit router if you plan to stream 1080p.

Reply
Reply