Hi all,

I’m planning to build a compact Unraid server and would appreciate some feedback on whether this configuration makes sense for my intended use, and where improvements might be needed.

Planned (future) configuration:

• CPU: Intel Core Ultra 5 225

• Motherboard: ASUS Prime Z890M-PLUS WIFI

• Case: Jonsbo N3

• CPU cooler: Scythe Big Shuriken 4

• Memory: Kingston Fury Beast KF560C36BBEK2-16 (currently looking at 16 GB total)

• Power supply: Sharkoon SilentStorm SFX Gold 500W

• Estimated system cost (excluding storage): ~€1,000

Intended use:

The system will run 24/7 as an Unraid server. Primary workloads will be:

• Docker (approximately 14 containers)

• Plex (with hardware transcoding)

• Three Windows 11 VMs (usually not running simultaneously)

Existing hardware:

I already own four Toshiba N300 8TB HDDs, which I plan to reuse. In the future I may expand to a total of eight HDDs.

Requirements and constraints:

• CPU must support hardware transcoding

• Compact case due to limited physical space

• Reasonable airflow despite the small form factor

• No overclocking planned

• No strong brand preferences, but I do value quality and reliability

Open questions:

• Is the selected CPU sufficient for this mix of Docker containers and up to three Windows 11 VMs?

• Does 32 GB of RAM make sense for this workload, or would more (or less) be advisable given current pricing?

• Is a quality 500W SFX PSU sufficient, especially when expanding to eight HDDs, or should I be looking at a higher wattage unit?

Thanks in advance for any insights or recommendations.

Edited January 25Jan 25 by Lakitna

I'd put all that hardware into pcpartpicker and see if it flags any compatibility stuff.

Also do a search on pcpartpicker for anyone who's built a computer into that Jonsbo chassis. They'll frequently write up issues they had with the build, things to look out for.

I'd get a better power supply. Something more name brand. https://www.newegg.com/p/pl?d=500+watt+psu Seasonic, Thermaltake, and Corsair all jump out at me from this US based place.

RAM pricing is stupid right now. How about building for DDR4?

Three windows 11 VMs, wow! I've never put my system through that kind of ringer. This will be your primary machine I take it? I couldn't say how the CPU will hold up.

When it comes to power requirements, I think pcpartpicker has that built in. But it wouldn't hurt to check it. Make sure your added up wattage comes to something like 80% of what that PSU can handle. There is probably a more smart percentage to work with, you'd have to google that.

Post some pics when it's done!