Mini PC Suggestions for Proxmox

Hardware Hub Storage
1

I have a Proxmox server that is in a mammoth Fractal Define R4 and older gaming-PC components (AMD-FX6300, 750watt PSU, 32GB RAM, 2x 4TB WD Reds).

This box has Proxmox, I’m a slowly learning home-labbr.

I’m currently running basic things:

  • Pi-hole (2 containers, primary/secondary)
  • Mirrored ZFS Share for backups

I have plans to extend capabilities in the future:

  • Tailscale
  • Jellyfin + supporting apps
  • More media storage (I have a goal of ending subscription services)
  • Reverse proxy
  • FreshRSS
  • SSO at some point

However, I’d like things in a much smaller footprint, less power consumption - and if I have to change how I manage storage (for example invest in Synology NAS) - that’s acceptable.

I’ve been reading about Proxmox clustering, it seems like something fun to learn about.

Admittedly, I’m out of the loop on minis but on the surface, seems like a good option. I wouldn’t say price isn’t a factor but I’m willing to invest a bit into this if it makes sense.

2

We’re about to switch our product line to use the ASUS PL64… might be worth a look… Mini PC PL64

3

The form factor is great…but now I need to figure out the NAS aspect. I like my spinning rust.

4

Your current system is good for learning.

Consider what your goals will ultimately mean from a hw requirements perspective and judge if this is really where you want to go, and options to get there.

How much storage do you think you’ll need before you will feel comfortable to turn off subscription services? What resolution/quality do you want to watch/listen to this content?

Your answer is likely different from mine, but I found the answer to be around 20-60TB, potentially growing beyond that.
You don’t need to start with this amount of storage, but I would try to avoid buying stuff today that won’t be able to reach your ultimate goals.
From a price/performance point of view using HDD for storage is still king in 2024. Most economical (IMHO - your opinion may differ) seems to be buying (maybe refurbished) 12-16GB enterprise HDDs.
Think about how many of such drives you’ll eventually need and only invest in systems that can actually connect a sufficient number of drives.

The next big question is about uptime. Do you expect your system to be running 24/7? Are you prepared to pay for the ever increasing power costs that come with it? You mention your desire for less power consumption.
This YT channel provides a bunch of good pointers.

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