Apple Silicon M1 MacBook Pro 13" as Jellyfin Server - Good Deal?

[DeadRbbt]

Hey everyone,

I'm considering using a MacBook Pro 13" (8GB RAM, 256GB storage) as a Jellyfin server. I can get one with a broken screen for about 340€. It would also double as a basic media storage server. I'm planning to extend it with external storage.

Some questions:

1. Is this a good setup for a Jellyfin server?
   
2. I found a guide suggesting it would cost about $180 extra for the server setup (without drives). Does this sound right? https://www.michaelstinkerings.org/mac-m...-home-nas/
   
3. Is this a good deal overall?
   
4. If not, what are some comparable server specs I should be looking at, and what do they typically cost?
   

I'd appreciate any insights or alternatives you can suggest. Thanks!

[TheDreadPirate]

IMO, no.

Your money would be better spent on a mini PC with an Intel N100. MUCH MUCH better transcoding support.

[DeadRbbt]

IMO, no.

Your money would be better spent on a mini PC with an Intel N100.  MUCH MUCH better transcoding support.

Thank you for the answer! Did some research and found the Beelink line. Looks pretty dope! .. but form factor doesn't really play a role. Would you still recommend a n100 then?

[TheDreadPirate]

Over a M1 Mac, yes. 100%.