12 Best Plex Streaming Devices Under $50 (Ranked by 4K Playback & Transcoding Performance – 2025)

Looking to stream your media via Plex without breaking the bank? We’ve curated a list of the top 12 streaming devices under $50 that deliver exceptional performance, ensuring smooth 4K playback and efficient transcoding.​

1. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers robust performance with support for 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+. Its seamless integration with Plex ensures smooth playback. However, be mindful of its 100 Mbps Ethernet limitation, which might affect high-bitrate 4K streams. ​

2. Roku Express 4K Plus

Roku’s user-friendly interface combined with 4K streaming capabilities makes the Express 4K Plus a solid choice. While it lacks Dolby Vision support, its affordability and reliable performance make up for it. ​

3. onn. Android TV 4K Box

Walmart’s onn. brand offers an Android TV box that supports 4K streaming and comes with Google Assistant integration. It’s a hidden gem for Plex users seeking affordability and functionality.​

4. Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD Version)

While the 4K version exceeds our budget, the HD variant offers a smooth Plex experience with a user-friendly interface and voice control features. It’s perfect for those who don’t require 4K streaming.​

5. Xiaomi Mi TV Stick

This compact device supports full HD streaming and runs on Android TV, providing access to a plethora of apps, including Plex. Its portability is a bonus for travelers.​

6. TiVo Stream 4K

TiVo’s entry into the streaming market offers 4K UHD support and integrates multiple streaming services. Its compatibility with Plex and voice remote make it a contender in this price range.​

7. Ematic Jetstream 4K Ultra HD TV Box

Running on Android TV, this device offers 4K streaming capabilities and comes with a voice-activated remote. It’s an affordable option for Plex enthusiasts.​

8. MECOOL KM1

This Android TV box supports 4K HDR streaming and offers a smooth Plex experience. Its ample storage allows for additional apps and services.​

9. MINIX NEO U9-H

Known for its robust build, this device supports 4K HDR10 and offers smooth Plex playback. Its external antenna ensures strong Wi-Fi connectivity.​

10. Pendoo T95 Android TV Box

An affordable option that supports 4K streaming and comes with the latest Android OS. It’s suitable for basic Plex streaming needs.​

11. VANKYO MatrixBox X95A

This device offers 4K streaming capabilities and runs on Android, providing access to numerous apps, including Plex. Its user-friendly interface is a plus.​

12. Transpeed Android 10.0 TV Box

With support for 4K UHD streaming and a straightforward setup, this device is a budget-friendly choice for Plex users.

​

Price vs. Performance Comparison

Understanding Plex Direct Play vs. Transcoding

Plex offers two primary methods for streaming content: Direct Play and Transcoding.

• Direct Play: Delivers the media file in its original format to the client device. This method requires minimal processing power and offers the best quality. However, it necessitates that the client device supports the media’s codec and format. ​

• Transcoding: Involves converting the media file into a compatible format on-the-fly. This process is more resource-intensive and can lead to reduced quality but ensures broader compatibility across devices.

FAQs

Q: Can these devices handle Plex Direct Play without transcoding?

A: Most of the devices listed support Direct Play for common media formats. However, performance may vary based on the specific media codecs and network conditions. It’s advisable to check the device specifications and user reviews for detailed insights.​

Q: Do these devices support external storage for additional media?
Yes. Devices like the MECOOL KM1, MINIX NEO U9-H, and most Android TV boxes in this list include USB ports or microSD card slots. That means you can plug in an external hard drive or flash drive and use it for local Plex media libraries or to expand storage for apps.

---

Q: Which devices are best for Plex Direct Play with 4K HEVC files?
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max, TiVo Stream 4K, and MECOOL KM1 handle 4K HEVC files well with Direct Play if the file’s bitrate isn’t extremely high. Just ensure your Plex server and home network (ideally wired or strong 5GHz Wi-Fi) can handle the load. Avoid transcoding 4K—these budget devices aren’t built for it.

---

Q: What’s better for Plex: Kodi or Plex?
They serve different needs:

• Plex is best if you stream across devices, want a central server, and need remote access.

• Kodi is local-first and great for custom plugins, but it lacks built-in multi-device syncing.

For most users, especially families and those streaming to TVs, Plex is the more streamlined choice.

---

Q: How do I set up Plex on an Android TV box?
Simple:

1. Go to the Google Play Store on the Android TV box.

2. Search for and install the Plex app.

3. Sign in with your Plex account.

4. Make sure your Plex Media Server is running and both devices are on the same network.

5. Navigate to “Library” and stream away.

If needed, tweak video quality settings to match your box’s processing limits (e.g. set to “Original” for Direct Play).

---

Quick Picks by Use Case (2025)

If you’re serious about Plex but don’t want to spend Shield TV money, these sub-$50 devices offer real value without compromise. Just keep your expectations realistic: Direct Play is your friend, transcoding 4K is not what these budget boxes were born to do.

💡Pro Tip: Stick with wired Ethernet whenever possible. Plex streaming lives and dies by bandwidth—don’t trust flaky Wi-Fi for high-bitrate files.

---

Want to Future-Proof?

If you can stretch just $30–$40 more, the Nvidia Shield TV (2019 base model) still crushes the field. It’s the only streamer under $150 that effortlessly handles 4K transcodes, supports AI upscaling, and runs Plex Media Server natively.

---

Still stuck? Drop your setup and Plex use-case in a comment, and we’ll give you a personalized device recommendation that doesn’t waste your money.