If you’re looking for the best NAS for Plex, Docker, and Home Assistant, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to stream your favorite media, run containerized applications, or manage your smart home, a powerful and flexible NAS setup is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover the best hardware and software choices, linking you to our Golden Build: CloudMaker for the perfect DIY NAS solution.
Why a DIY NAS for Plex, Docker, and Home Assistant?
Many pre-built NAS devices offer limited performance and upgrade options, making them less than ideal for power users. A DIY NAS allows you to:
- Optimize performance for media streaming, virtualization, and automation.
- Choose the best components suited to your needs.
- Save money by building a high-end NAS at a lower cost than proprietary solutions.
- Future-proof your system with scalable and upgradable hardware.
Key Requirements for a NAS Running Plex, Docker, and Home Assistant
To ensure smooth performance, here are the essential hardware and software considerations:
1. CPU – Powering Your NAS
- For Plex transcoding, an Intel Quick Sync-enabled CPU (e.g., Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 or Xeon E-series) is recommended.
- If you plan to run virtual machines, consider a CPU with hardware virtualization support (VT-x, AMD-V).
2. RAM – Multitasking Power
- Minimum 16GB DDR4 RAM, but 32GB or more is ideal for multiple containers and VM usage.
- ECC RAM has benefits for data integrity, especially in a ZFS-based NAS. However, it comes at a higher cost due to the need for compatible hardware (mainboard, CPU). For most personal and small business use cases, non-ECC RAM is sufficient, but if data integrity is a top priority, investing in ECC can be worthwhile.
3. Storage – Speed vs. Capacity
- SSD for caching and OS (NVMe recommended).
- HDDs for bulk storage (preferably NAS-rated drives like Seagate IronWolf or WD Red Pro).
- RAID/ZFS configurations for redundancy and data protection.
4. Network – High-Speed Access
- 2.5GbE or 10GbE NIC for high-speed local access.
- Optional: A separate VLAN for Docker and Home Assistant to enhance security and network segmentation.
5. Power Efficiency & Cooling
- Efficient 80+ Gold or better PSU to reduce energy consumption.
- Adequate cooling and airflow to maintain stable performance under load.
Best DIY NAS Build for Plex, Docker, and Home Assistant
If you’re looking for a pre-selected hardware build designed to host your own cloud services securely without relying on paid subscriptions, the CloudMaker Build is the perfect solution. It allows you to self-host services like Nextcloud, Paperless-ngx, and Home Assistant while keeping full control over your data.
The CloudMaker Build is our recommended Golden Build, designed to handle media streaming, containerized applications, and home automation effortlessly.
CloudMaker Build Highlights:
✅ No need for paid subscriptions – host your own Nextcloud, media server, and more.
✅ Perfect for self-hosting cloud services with enhanced security and privacy.
✅ Intel 12th/13th/14th Gen CPU with Quick Sync for hardware transcoding.
✅ 32GB+ RAM for smooth multitasking.
✅ NVMe SSD Cache for improved performance.
✅ 2.5GbE onboard Networking for fast data transfers.
✅ Low Power Consumption with efficient hardware components and power supply.
Software Considerations – Plex, Docker, and Home Assistant
Plex Media Server
- Install Plex on Unraid or TrueNAS Scale for best performance.
- Use hardware transcoding (with Intel Quick Sync) to stream 4K content smoothly.
- Store media on a ZFS or RAID-protected volume for reliability.
Docker for Containers
- Set up Portainer for easy container management.
- Recommended containers: Plex, Immich, Nextcloud, paperless ngx, Home Assistant, Pi-hole.
Home Assistant – Smart Home Automation
- Install Home Assistant OS in a Docker container or as a VM.
- Use Zigbee/Z-Wave adapters for smart home integration.
- Automate devices locally without cloud dependency.
Conclusion – Build Your Own Ultimate NAS
A DIY NAS is the best choice if you want full control over your Plex media streaming, Docker applications, and Home Assistant automation. With the CloudMaker Build, you’ll get the best performance, flexibility, and future-proofing for your setup.
Ready to build your own NAS? Start with our Hardware Components Guide and check out the pre-configured CloudMaker NAS build to get started!
Components Guide
CloudMaker Build
Do you have any questions or need advice on your NAS build? Drop a comment below!
