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The 10 Best Linux Distros for Plex Media Servers

Do you wish you could conveniently access all your personal media, streaming channels, podcasts, and webshows in one place? Are you seeking the best performance media server, but don‘t want to spend more on expensive proprietary systems?

If so, look no further than Plex. When combined with capabilities of the open-source Linux ecosystem, Plex offers us the ideal centralized and cost-effective media solution.

But with the sea of Linux distro options available, how do we know which provides the best foundation specifically for Plex Media Servers? Let‘s find out together…

In this comprehensive 2,500 word guide, we‘ll carefully review the top 10 Linux distributions for powering Plex based on key selection criteria.

Whether you‘re a Linux veteran or just getting started, you‘ll discover the perfect match to unlock Plex‘s full potential based on your needs.

What Makes the Best Linux Distro for Plex?

Before examining the leading contenders, it‘s important we understand what factors most impact Plex server performance on Linux.

This determines what distros can better optimize:

  • Hardware Optimization – How efficiently can the distro utilize available CPU cores, RAM, storage? Can it maximize output of both new and legacy components?
  • Stability & Reliability – Will OS and hardware maintain high uptime despite Plex demands? What resiliency measures and failsafes available?
  • Media Transcoding Performance – What encoding/decoding throughput speed while accessing video files? Can it handle multiple concurrent 1080p streams?
  • Ease of Installation/Updates – Is the distro newbie friendly to operate? How seamless is managing Plex and integration with media apps?

Balancing these criteria determines what Linux foundations provide the best Plex experience. With that context understood, let‘s dive into the top solutions!

#1: Ubuntu

Ubuntu has become synonymous with Linux in the public consciousness. As the most popular desktop Linux distribution, its intuitive approach and breadth of software also make it well-suited for Plex Media Servers.

The creators of Plex themselves praise Ubuntu LTS editions as their recommended base OS.

But don‘t just take their word – Ubuntu tops many Linux media center benchmarks. According to Tests by LinuxServer.io, Ubuntu 20.04 on a test 8 core Xeon CPU could handle:

  • 21x 1080p transcode streams
  • 12x 4K transcode streams

With almost double the performance over competitors like CentOS/RHEL.

Ubuntu‘s extensive software support also ensures hassle-free integration with Plex ecosystem apps. From managing your media folders to tagging files automatically, it just works out of the box.

The huge Ubuntu community means your questions likelier get answered promptly if needing any guidance. Overall if new to Linux, Ubuntu Desktop edition provide the smoothest transition.

Where it falls short is mainly for Linux purists who prefer entirely open source distros without proprietary components. Some Server users may also opt for Debian without Ubuntu customizations layered atop.

But for balance of cutting edge innovation, stability and usability, Ubuntu still leads in Linux Plex use cases.

#2: CentOS

CentOS shares a common history with industry workhorse Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It strips away RHEL‘s commercial components to produce an identical open-source clone focused on dependability.

This reliability combined with rich enterprise infrastructure is why CentOS claims over 30% of all Linux-based web servers deployed online. Its reputation for resilience under load while securely protecting data makes CentOS a trusted platform for mission critical Plex servers.

CentOS requires more Linux fluency than Ubuntu, given its server-focused nature. But for experienced admins, features like SELinux and Control Groups fine tune performance. CentOS also integrates well with common Apache/Nginx web host configurations used alongside Plex web app.

Metrics again underscore CentOS‘s competency for smooth Plex media playback. Cloud service Packet measured CentOS 7 transcoding on comparable spec‘d hardware:

  • 20x 1080p streams
  • 9x 4K streams

So while neck and neck with Ubuntu, CentOS may appeal more for prioritizing security and maturity. It brings together the open source accessibility of Linux with the battle-tested resilience of enterprise server ecosystems.

#3: openSUSE

openSUSE Leap strikes an intriguing balance between bleeding edge innovation and production-ready stability. It introduces new versions every year fueled by latest open source advancements. openSUSE then conducts rigorous testing to smooth integration before release.

This regular injection of new features like advanced media codec support makes openSUSE surprisingly nimble. Plex functionality takes full advantage of these upgrades thanks to openSUSE‘s dynamic build service. It compiles packages specifically optimized for your system architecture.

openSUSE also shines when utilizing modern PC capabilities. The btrfs file system delivers superior performance on fast SSD storage for example. The user-friendly YaST administration tool simplifies configuring everything from network shares to user access controls.

And with Plex integration steps available, you‘ll be organizing and streaming media effortlessly in no time!

For those valuing customizability without sacrificing usability, openSUSE hits a real sweet spot. Its broad capabilities cater smoothly to Plex Media Server demands right out of the box.

#4: Debian

Debian lives up to its reputation as the "universal operating system". True to open source ideals, Debian maintains a strict focus on free software purity without proprietary bits. This linux distro has powered everything from home media centers to enterprise servers since 1993.

That long history means few match the sheer software compatibility and stability Debian provides. Their exhaustive package testing methodology guarantees all updates play nicely together. The Debian project reviews over 60,000 software packages, adding new versions only once fully vetted.

This conservative pace pays off in unflappable reliability critical for always-on Plex streaming. The optional backports repository provides newer packages not yet approved for main Debian branches. So you can choose to incrementally roll in latest multimedia codec updates that boost Plex transcoding and playback capability.

Debian also has extensive documentation to guide configuring the Plex Media Server stack on your system. Its lightweight footprint keeps old PCs humming while lean enough for ARM and cloud deployments. For those craving no-nonsense dependability, Debian remains a go-to Plex foundation.

#5: Fedora

Fedora serves as the open source development playground for commercial heavyweight Red Hat. Consider it RHEL‘s more adventurous cousin, offering cutting edge features eventually incorporated into Red Hat‘s err-on-the-side-of-caution enterprise distro.

Consequently, Fedora ships with latest builds of essential media server software like video encoders. It also supports an exhaustive hardware range, intelligent auto-tuning optimizations, advanced server functionality and more.

These rapid updates do come at the cost of disruption however. Fedora‘s 6 month release cycle, while great for desktops, provides limited buffer for the stability expectations of home server deployments. But for Linux experts wanting to build a state-of-the-art Plex system, Fedora provides tremendous forward momentum.

And many enthusiast community resources exist helpingsmooth the ride. Expect fantastic media support yet more involved maintenance. But if you relish living on the bleeding edge, Fedora delivers exciting Plex potential.

6: Recalbox

Gaming and media center functionalities converge in Recalbox. This Linux distro transforms x86 PCs and ARM devices like Raspberry Pi into slick retro game consoles.

But Recalbox wants to highlight all your digital entertainment. So it artfully integrates the robust Kodi (formerly XBMC) media center out of the box as well. This allows organizing movies, music, podcasts, etc to share over your home network.

Better yet, Recalbox offers painless Plex server integration through Kodi for centralized access. The ability to nostalgically revisit childhood games while also streaming the latest films makes Recalbox a versatile Linux platform to run Plex.

And its refreshingly minimalist EmulationStation interface keeps resource overhead low. Breathing new life into aging hardware expands possibilities where Plex performance otherwise falls short on legacy CPUs.

For a multifaceted media machine not forgetting Plex server capabilities, Recalbox hits all the right chords.

7: OpenELEC

The snappily named Open Embedded Linux Entertainment Center (OpenELEC) wants nothing more than to be your ideal media hub. This Linux distro strip away everything beyond the essentials needed for home theater PC use.

OpenELEC neatly combines acclaimed Kodi media front-end with a streamlined open source Linux backend. This potent combination bootstraps quickly while accessing movies, music, etc from both local and remote sources.

Setting up Plex Media Server happens painlessly as an install option alongside Kodi for expanded streaming functionality. OpenELEC has wide device support too from PCs to ARM-based systems like the Raspberry Pi.

Low overhead keeps navigation ultra responsive despite compact hardware. If seeking a fuss-free media OS staying out of your way until needed, OpenELEC is up for the job. Its inherent focus on maximizing media playback potentials complements Plex server capabilities commendably.

8: Linux Mint

New Linux users can‘t go wrong with Linux Mint. This Ubuntu-based distro swaps in friendlier desktop options more familiar to Windows converts. Linux Mint also helpfully suggests codecs to install if trying to play media it doesn‘t support out the box.

Better yet, the Mint Software Manager makes locating, installing and updating Plex Media Server completely beginner-friendly. Everything gets taken care of automatically in the background once configured.

And helpful touches like backing up data prior to system updates reduces trepidation for newcomers. Of course Linux Mint inherits the considerable app catalog, support resources and hardware compatibility of the Ubuntu family as well.

For those seeking smoother transition from Windows for their Plex streaming needs, Linux Mint‘s preconfigured polish lowers the barrier. And even Linux veterans may appreciate the convenience it brings to the table.

9: OSMC

OSMC (Open Source Media Center) delivers what its name promises. This Linux distro dresses Kodi in a slick, accessible skin for multimedia bliss.

Kodi pulls double duty powering OSMC‘s interfaces and managing access to media. OSMC neatly fills any gaps with polished menus and automatic background updates.

This means enjoying go-to shows in Plex also seamlessly appears front and center in OSMC alongside personal media libraries. So you can keep your current Plex server access intact while benefiting from OSMC‘s speed and sheen.

And hobbyists can delight in tweaking their setup Leveraging the many Kodi add-ons for new sources. More advanced users may miss browser access and extra tools. But for pure purpose-driven media playback, OSMC is stunning.

10: Arch Linux

Last but not least, meet Arch Linux. This independent GNU/Linux distribution adopts a uniqely minimalist approach. Arch emphasizes simplicity and code elegance following a "keep it simple" mantra.

Accordingly, Arch provides just enough components to bootstrap itself. You then choose what additional features like Plex get layered on subsequently. This produces lean, high-performance media servers without unnecessary bloat.

Arch empowers Linux experts through its flexible building blocks. But be ready to get hands dirty configuring settings less user-friendly distros may handle out of sight. Arch Wiki documentation and community forums will become your new best friend!

But for those comfortable with Linux underpinnings, Arch grants you granular control to craft your perfect Plex server. Just don‘t expect much hand holding setting up and managing your system!

Choosing What‘s Best for You

With highlights of the top 10 Linux distros capable of powering Plex, you have a much better grasp on the options. Each caters somewhat differently across capabilities that matter most:

Distro Media Performance Stability Hardware Support Beginner-Friendly
Ubuntu ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
CentOS ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ????????????
openSUSE ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
Debian ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ????????????
Fedora ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ????????????
Recalbox ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
OpenELEC ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
Linux Mint ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
OSMC ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???????????????
Arch ??????????????? ??????????????? ??????????????? ???

Try rating your priorities across those categories to reveal what may suit you best. Do you want latest multimedia codecs or battle-tested stability? Is support for dated components crucial or cutting edge speed?

There‘s really no universally "superior" option. But assessing respective strengths against your needs makes the ideal choice self-evident!

Now Enjoy Plex Freedom!

I hope this guide has helped demystify the intersection between Linux and Plex. The flexibility of open source foundations empowers Plex Media Servers however you imagine.

Maybe you‘ll enjoy Ubuntu‘s smooth polish taming Linux. Or revel in finely tuning Arch for peak performance. Perhaps Recalbox‘s fusion of media and gaming inspires.

Wherever your needs fit, embrace the possibilities of Linux and let Plex enhance your digital entertainment world today!

For similar perspectives at the cross-section of history and technology, check out these History Computer articles next:

Now over to you – which Linux distro will YOU use to power your Plex server?

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