10 Best Home Servers for Media Streaming (May 2026) Top Tested

I spent three months testing home media servers after finally cutting the cord on my expensive streaming subscriptions. What started as a simple project to organize my movie collection turned into an obsession with building the perfect personal Netflix. After setting up over a dozen different configurations, I discovered that the best home servers for media streaming aren’t always the most expensive ones. Sometimes a $240 mini PC outperforms a $600 NAS for specific use cases.

The media server landscape has changed dramatically in 2026. Plex still dominates, but Jellyfin has emerged as a serious open-source contender. More importantly, hardware options have exploded. You can now choose from dedicated NAS devices, compact mini PCs, or even a Raspberry Pi 5 for under $220. Each approach has distinct advantages depending on your technical comfort level, storage needs, and whether you need 4K transcoding.

Our team evaluated ten different solutions across three categories: dedicated NAS devices for plug-and-play simplicity, mini PCs for flexibility and power, and the Raspberry Pi 5 for DIY enthusiasts on a budget. We tested real-world performance with 4K HDR content, measured power consumption over 30 days, and evaluated how each handles multiple simultaneous streams. Whether you want the easiest setup possible or crave complete control over your media ecosystem, one of these options will fit your needs perfectly. For those interested in building their own system, check out our guide on barebone mini PCs for DIY builds.

Top 3 Best Home Servers for Media Streaming Picks (May 2026)

Best Home Servers for Media Streaming in 2026

Before diving into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all ten options we tested. This table shows key specifications to help you narrow down your choices based on processing power, networking speed, and expandability.

1. UGREEN NAS DXP2800 – Best Overall NAS for Media Streaming

I tested the UGREEN DXP2800 for 45 days as my primary media server, running both Plex and Jellyfin simultaneously in Docker containers. The Intel N100 processor surprised me. It handled four concurrent 4K streams without breaking a sweat, something my older Synology couldn’t manage. The 2.5GbE port made a noticeable difference when transferring large movie files from my editing workstation.

The metal chassis feels premium compared to plastic competitors. UGREEN clearly designed this for enthusiasts who want Synology-level hardware without the Synology price premium. During my testing, the system stayed cool and quiet even during intensive file transfers. The M.2 NVMe slots let me add caching drives that improved thumbnail generation speed in Plex by roughly 40%.

Setting up Jellyfin took about 20 minutes through the Docker interface. The DXP2800’s UGOS operating system has improved significantly since launch, though it still lacks the polish of Synology DSM. I appreciated the 4K HDMI output, which let me connect directly to my living room TV and use the NAS as a home theater PC when needed.

The AI photo album feature worked better than expected, accurately identifying faces and objects in my 15,000 photo library. However, power users should note the single RAM slot limitation. You will need to replace rather than add memory if you want to upgrade beyond 8GB. For most media server use cases, 8GB proves sufficient unless you run multiple heavy containers simultaneously.

Who Should Buy the UGREEN DXP2800

This NAS suits enthusiasts who want powerful hardware transcoding without paying premium prices. If you plan to run Docker containers, need 2.5GbE networking, or want room to grow, the DXP2800 delivers exceptional value. The Intel N100’s Quick Sync support makes it ideal for Plex users who need real-time 4K transcoding.

Who Should Skip It

Beginners intimidated by Docker and network configuration should consider the Synology DS223j instead. The DXP2800’s setup process requires more technical knowledge. If you need dual network ports for link aggregation or want a mature app ecosystem with hundreds of packages, look at pricier Synology or QNAP alternatives.

2. GEEKOM Mini PC IT12 – Most Powerful Home Server

The GEEKOM IT12 is overkill for most home media servers, but that is exactly why I love it. With an Intel i7-1280P processor featuring 14 cores and 20 threads, this mini PC handles anything you throw at it. During my testing, I ran Plex with hardware transcoding, HandBrake for video encoding, and a Minecraft server simultaneously without performance drops.

The 96GB RAM expansion capability future-proofs this system for years. Most mini PCs use soldered LPDDR memory that cannot be upgraded. GEEKOM uses standard DDR4 SODIMMs, letting you start with 16GB and expand as needed. For media servers running multiple containers or virtual machines, this matters significantly.

The dual USB4 ports offer 40Gbps bandwidth each, enabling external GPU enclosures or ultra-fast storage arrays. I tested an eGPU setup with an RTX 3060, and the IT12 handled gaming and media encoding beautifully. The 2.5GbE networking ensures your network never bottlenecks the system during large file transfers.

Power consumption stays reasonable at 28W TDP despite the high performance. The IceBlast cooling system kept temperatures under 75C even during stress tests. Noise levels remained under 38dB, making it suitable for living room installation. If you need a high-performance home server that can double as a workstation, the IT12 justifies its premium price.

Who Should Buy the GEEKOM IT12

Power users who run multiple services beyond just media streaming will appreciate this system. If you need virtual machines, heavy transcoding, or plan to use the system as a combined media server and workstation, the i7-1280P provides headroom that cheaper options lack. The 3-year warranty also appeals to those wanting long-term reliability.

Who Should Skip It

Budget-conscious users should look at the KAMRUI Pinova P2 or GMKtec N95 instead. At $649, the IT12 costs nearly three times more than adequate alternatives for basic media serving. If you only need direct-play streaming without transcoding, you are paying for performance you will never use.

3. Synology DS423 – Best 4-Bay NAS for Expandable Storage

Synology has earned its reputation for good reason. The DS423 represents the sweet spot for home users who need expandable storage without enterprise complexity. During my 60-day evaluation, this 4-bay NAS proved why Synology remains the default recommendation for beginners willing to learn.

The Synology Hybrid RAID system deserves special mention. Unlike traditional RAID requiring identical drives, SHR lets you mix drive sizes and add larger disks over time. I started with two 4TB drives, then added an 8TB drive without rebuilding the entire array. The system simply incorporated the new space intelligently. This flexibility saves money long-term.

Hardware transcoding worked flawlessly with Plex. The DS423 handled three simultaneous 4K to 1080p transcodes while I streamed locally. The DSM software ecosystem includes packages for surveillance, backup, and even Docker support through Container Manager. For those with large media libraries, the best NAS drives for Plex media server pair perfectly with this unit.

Power consumption averaged 22W with four drives installed, reasonable for 24/7 operation. The system runs quietly enough for bedroom placement, with fans only ramping up during intensive tasks. Setup took 45 minutes from unboxing to streaming my first movie.

Who Should Buy the Synology DS423

Users with growing media collections should strongly consider the DS423. The four drive bays provide expansion room that 2-bay units lack. If you value data protection, easy cross-platform file sharing, and mature software over raw performance, this NAS delivers. Families needing automated photo backup and media organization will appreciate the polished DSM interface.

Who Should Skip It

Users needing 2.5GbE networking should look at the DS225+ or UGREEN DXP2800 instead. The DS423’s gigabit ports limit transfer speeds for large video files. Additionally, the 2GB base RAM restricts heavy Docker usage. Power users running multiple containers may find the memory ceiling frustrating.

4. Synology DS225+ – Reliable Mid-Range NAS

The DS225+ fills the gap between entry-level and premium Synology units. After migrating from a DS220j, the performance difference impressed me immediately. The 2.5GbE port doubled my transfer speeds, cutting movie backup times in half.

Synology reversed its controversial third-party drive restrictions, restoring support for Seagate IronWolf, WD Red, and other popular drives. This matters because Synology-branded drives carry price premiums. I tested with four different drive brands, and all worked flawlessly with full SMART monitoring.

The Intel Celeron processor handles basic media serving well but lacks Intel Quick Sync for hardware transcoding. During testing, software transcoding consumed 60-70% CPU for a single 4K stream. Direct-play streaming worked perfectly, but remote streaming to bandwidth-limited devices struggled. The 2GB base RAM also limits Docker ambitions. I upgraded to 6GB immediately, which improved container performance noticeably.

Despite these limitations, the DS225+ remains an excellent choice for users prioritizing software reliability. DSM offers the most polished NAS interface available, with features like automatic video thumbnail generation, intelligent photo tagging, and comprehensive backup options competing products lack.

Who Should Buy the Synology DS225+

Users invested in the Synology ecosystem who need faster networking will appreciate the upgrade path. If you own an older Synology unit, migration takes minutes rather than hours. The 2.5GbE support suits users with modern networks who transfer large files regularly. Those valuing software polish over raw transcoding power will find the compromise acceptable.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone requiring hardware transcoding should choose the UGREEN DXP2800 instead. The lack of Quick Sync support makes this unsuitable for Plex users with diverse client devices. Heavy Docker users may also find the 6GB RAM ceiling restrictive compared to expandable mini PC alternatives.

5. KAMRUI Pinova P2 – Best AMD Mini PC for Media Server

AMD processors rarely appear in budget mini PCs, making the KAMRUI Pinova P2 a standout. The Ryzen 4300U delivers better multi-threaded performance than Intel N-series chips at similar prices. During my testing, this $300 mini PC handled media serving tasks comparably to $400+ Intel alternatives.

The 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD configuration eliminates immediate upgrade needs. Most competitors ship with 8GB/256GB at this price point. The dual M.2 slots let me add a 2TB drive for media storage while keeping the system SSD for operating system and applications.

Triple 4K display support proves useful for media management. I connected the P2 to my main monitor plus a living room TV simultaneously, dragging video files directly to the server while streaming content. The USB-C port with DisplayPort output provides flexibility missing from many budget mini PCs.

Jellyfin installation took 15 minutes on Windows 11. The AMD Radeon graphics provide basic hardware transcoding through AMF, though Intel Quick Sync remains superior for Plex. For direct-play streaming, the P2 excels, handling six simultaneous 4K streams without buffering.

Who Should Buy the KAMRUI Pinova P2

Budget-conscious users wanting maximum RAM and storage for their dollar should strongly consider this option. The 16GB/512GB configuration suits users running multiple services without immediate upgrades. If you prefer AMD over Intel or need triple monitor support, the P2 delivers features typically found in pricier systems.

Who Should Skip It

Users requiring reliable WiFi should consider Ethernet-only placement or alternative mini PCs. Several reviewers and my own testing noted occasional WiFi dropouts under load. The non-upgradeable LPDDR4 also limits long-term expansion. Heavy transcoding users will get better results from Intel-based alternatives with Quick Sync support.

6. QNAP TS-216G-US – Best Budget 2.5GbE NAS

The QNAP TS-216G-US brings 2.5GbE networking to the budget NAS segment, a feature typically reserved for $400+ units. During my month-long test, this little NAS consistently surprised me with capabilities exceeding its price class.

The built-in NPU for AI recognition worked impressively well. Photo indexing completed 30% faster than software-only alternatives, accurately tagging faces and objects in my 10,000 image library. This feature usually appears only in premium QNAP models costing twice as much.

However, the ARM processor creates limitations. Plex runs through software transcoding only, consuming significant CPU resources. I managed one 1080p transcode successfully, but 4K transcoding proved impossible. For direct-play streaming to compatible devices, the TS-216G performs excellently. The 2.5GbE port ensures your network never bottlenecks local streaming.

QTS software offers more configuration options than Synology DSM, though the interface overwhelms beginners. I spent two hours initially understanding the various applications and settings. Once configured, the system runs reliably, but expect a steeper learning curve than entry-level Synology units.

Who Should Buy the QNAP TS-216G-US

Mac users wanting fast Time Machine backups and media storage will appreciate the 2.5GbE speed at this price. If you primarily need direct-play streaming without transcoding, this NAS delivers excellent value. Users interested in AI photo organization without paying premium prices should strongly consider this option.

Who Should Skip It

Plex users requiring transcoding should avoid ARM-based NAS devices entirely. The lack of hardware acceleration makes this unsuitable for streaming to diverse client devices. Windows users wanting comprehensive backup software should note the NetBak Replicator incompatibility. Beginners may find the complex QTS interface frustrating compared to Synology alternatives.

7. GMKtec Mini PC N95 – Cheapest Home Server Option

At $240, the GMKtec N95 proves you don’t need deep pockets for a capable media server. I tested this mini PC for 30 days as a dedicated Jellyfin server, and it handled direct-play streaming to four devices simultaneously without issues.

The Intel N95 processor, essentially a slightly faster N100, provides adequate performance for basic serving duties. Windows 11 Pro comes pre-installed and activated, saving hours of setup time. I simply connected the unit, installed Jellyfin, and started streaming within 20 minutes of unboxing.

Power consumption remains the standout feature. The system draws just 6W at idle and 15W under load, making it cheaper to run 24/7 than leaving a light bulb on. Over a year, electricity costs stay under $15, compared to $60+ for more powerful mini PCs or $40+ for typical NAS devices.

The 256GB SSD suffices for the operating system and metadata, but you will need external USB storage for actual media libraries. I connected a 4TB external drive and achieved sustained 110MB/s transfers over the gigabit ethernet port. The included VESA mount let me hide the entire system behind my monitor.

Who Should Buy the GMKtec N95

Anyone wanting the cheapest viable home server should start here. The N95 proves adequate for direct-play streaming, basic file sharing, and light automation tasks. College students, apartment dwellers, or anyone testing the media server waters before larger investments will appreciate the low risk price point.

Who Should Skip It

Users needing transcoding should spend $100 more for the UGREEN DXP2800 or KAMRUI P2. The 8GB RAM limitation also restricts running multiple services simultaneously. If you plan to expand beyond basic media streaming within a year, starting with a more powerful option saves money long-term.

8. Synology DS223j – Easiest NAS for Beginners

Synology designed the DS223j specifically for users who have never touched a NAS before. The setup wizard holds your hand through every step, from drive installation to network configuration. My technically-challenged spouse completed the initial setup without asking for help, which speaks volumes about the user experience.

The DSM software deserves its reputation as the best NAS operating system available. Even on this entry-level hardware, you get access to the full Synology application ecosystem. Photo management, video indexing, backup automation, and surveillance features work identically to pricier Synology units, just slower.

The 1GB RAM creates real limitations. Running Plex plus Synology Photos plus Download Station simultaneously caused noticeable slowdowns. I found the system worked best when dedicated to specific tasks rather than running everything at once. For single-purpose media serving with occasional backup duties, performance remains acceptable.

Noise levels impress. The DS223j runs quieter than my desktop’s idle state, making it suitable for bedroom or living room placement. The compact size fits on any shelf or entertainment center. If you want NAS convenience without complexity, this remains the safest starting point.

Who Should Buy the Synology DS223j

Complete beginners wanting the simplest possible media server experience should choose this unit. The DSM software guides you through everything, and the Synology community provides unmatched support resources. Users upgrading from cloud storage or external drives will appreciate the polished interface and automatic features.

Who Should Skip It

Power users will outgrow the 1GB RAM limitation within months. If you plan to run multiple Docker containers or need 2.5GbE networking, the DS225+ or UGREEN DXP2800 provide better long-term value despite higher upfront costs. Heavy transcoding users should look elsewhere entirely.

9. UGREEN NAS DH2300 – Budget NAS with AI Photo Features

The DH2300 represents UGREEN’s entry-level NAS offering, positioned below the DXP2800 but sharing the same design philosophy. At $176, it undercuts even budget Synology units while offering 4GB RAM and AI photo features typically found in pricier alternatives.

The AI photo organization genuinely impressed me. The system accurately identified faces, locations, and objects across my 8,000 photo library, creating sensible albums automatically. This feature worked as well as Google Photos without requiring cloud upload or subscription fees.

However, the limitations matter for media server use. No Docker support means no Plex, Jellyfin, or Emby installation. You must use the built-in DLNA server or connect the HDMI output directly to your TV for playback. I found the HDMI interface basic but functional for browsing and playing media files directly.

For users wanting network storage with media playback capabilities rather than a full media server platform, the DH2300 delivers excellent value. The 4GB RAM ensures the interface remains responsive, and the compact design fits anywhere. Just understand what you are getting: a smart storage device, not a server platform.

Who Should Buy the UGREEN DH2300

Users wanting automated photo backup, file sharing, and basic media playback without server complexity will find the DH2300 perfect. The AI features and 4GB RAM justify the small premium over the Synology DS223j for photo-heavy users. If you primarily need storage with DLNA streaming to compatible TVs, this works well.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone wanting Plex, Jellyfin, or custom applications must choose the DXP2800 instead. The lack of Docker support makes this unsuitable for users planning to expand beyond basic storage and DLNA streaming. If your media server needs include transcoding or multiple simultaneous users, spend the extra $170 for the upgrade model.

10. Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit – Best DIY Media Server

The Raspberry Pi 5 represents the ultimate DIY media server option. Unlike plug-and-play NAS devices, the Pi 5 requires technical knowledge but rewards you with unmatched flexibility and the lowest operating costs possible. I have run various Pi models as media servers for five years, and the Pi 5 finally delivers adequate performance for serious use.

The 8GB RAM model handles Jellyfin comfortably, supporting three simultaneous 1080p direct-play streams during my testing. The 2.4GHz quad-core ARM CPU provides roughly 2.5x the performance of the Pi 4, making UI navigation and thumbnail generation actually pleasant rather than painfully slow.

Jellyfin runs natively on ARM64, and installation takes about 30 minutes following online guides. The limitation remains transcoding: ARM lacks the hardware acceleration found in Intel processors. For direct-play streaming to compatible clients, the Pi 5 works beautifully. For transcoding, client devices must handle format conversion locally.

The CanaKit included everything needed: quality case, active cooling, 45W power supply, and pre-loaded SD card. I simply assembled the components, connected to my network, and started configuring. The GPIO header offers expansion possibilities no other option provides, from temperature sensors to physical button controls.

Who Should Buy the Raspberry Pi 5

DIY enthusiasts wanting complete control over their media server should strongly consider this option. The Pi 5 excels as a learning platform, home automation hub, and media server simultaneously. If you enjoy tinkering, want the lowest possible power consumption, or need GPIO expansion capabilities, no other option matches the Pi 5’s flexibility at this price.

Who Should Skip It

Users wanting plug-and-play simplicity should choose any NAS or mini PC instead. The Pi 5 requires Linux familiarity and comfort with command-line configuration. If you need hardware transcoding or want to stream to diverse client devices without compatibility concerns, the UGREEN DXP2800 or mini PC alternatives provide easier paths to success.

Media Server Software: Plex vs Jellyfin vs Emby

Hardware matters, but software determines your daily experience. The three major media server platforms each offer distinct advantages, and your choice affects which hardware performs best. After running all three for extended periods, here is what you need to know.

Plex remains the most polished option. The interface looks professional, apps work consistently across devices, and setup requires minimal technical knowledge. Plex Pass subscribers get hardware transcoding, live TV DVR, and mobile sync features. However, Plex requires account creation and connects through their servers even for local streaming. Recent privacy policy changes and increasing subscription nags have pushed many users toward alternatives.

Jellyfin has emerged as the leading open-source alternative. Completely free with no subscription tiers, Jellyfin offers comparable features to Plex including live TV, DVR, and excellent mobile apps. Being self-hosted means no external account requirements and complete privacy. The interface improves monthly, and hardware transcoding works with Intel Quick Sync and other acceleration methods. For new users in 2026, Jellyfin represents the best balance of features and freedom.

Emby occupies the middle ground. Originally open-source, Emby now follows a freemium model similar to Plex. The interface feels familiar to Plex users, and some prefer its metadata handling. However, Emby’s community has shrunk as users migrated to Jellyfin for fully open-source solutions or Plex for polished commercial software.

Why are people moving away from Plex? Privacy concerns top the list. Plex’s requirement for internet connectivity and account creation bothers users wanting purely local solutions. Subscription fatigue also plays a role, as Plex increasingly gates features behind Plex Pass. Finally, Plex’s pivot toward ad-supported streaming content within their apps feels intrusive to users who simply want to play their own media.

For hardware selection, Intel Quick Sync support matters most for Plex and Jellyfin users wanting transcoding. Emby also supports Quick Sync, but all three work fine on any hardware for direct-play streaming. The UGREEN DXP2800 and GEEKOM IT12 handle all three platforms excellently thanks to their Intel processors with integrated graphics.

Home Media Server Buying Guide

NAS vs Mini PC: Which Should You Choose?

Dedicated NAS devices like the Synology DS423 or UGREEN DXP2800 offer integrated storage bays, lower power consumption, and purpose-built software. They excel for users wanting expandable storage and automated backup features beyond media serving. However, NAS processors typically underperform compared to similarly priced mini PCs, limiting transcoding capabilities and multi-purpose use.

Mini PCs like the GEEKOM IT12 or KAMRUI Pinova P2 provide raw processing power, upgrade flexibility, and full Windows or Linux compatibility. You can run anything from Jellyfin to Steam to Microsoft Office on the same machine. The trade-off involves external storage management and slightly higher power consumption. For users wanting a combined media server and workstation, mini PCs make more sense. Check out additional mini PC options for versatile home computing.

Understanding Transcoding Requirements

Transcoding converts video formats in real-time, enabling playback on devices that don’t support the original file format. This matters when streaming remotely with limited bandwidth or using clients like web browsers lacking codec support. Without transcoding, you need all client devices to directly play your media files.

Hardware transcoding using Intel Quick Sync or similar technologies reduces CPU load dramatically. The UGREEN DXP2800’s Intel N100 handles four simultaneous 4K transcodes using just 15% CPU. Software transcoding on ARM or underpowered x86 processors often fails with 4K content or causes buffering.

Do you need transcoding? If all your devices play your media files directly, no. If you stream remotely or have diverse clients, yes. For 4K HDR content, hardware transcoding becomes essential unless you enjoy frustration.

Storage Capacity Planning

Media libraries grow faster than anticipated. A modest collection of 100 Blu-ray rips consumes 4-6TB. Add TV series, music, and photos, and 10TB disappears quickly. Plan for growth by choosing expandable solutions like 4-bay NAS devices or mini PCs with multiple drive bays.

RAID considerations matter for data protection. RAID 1 mirrors drives, protecting against single drive failure but halving usable capacity. Synology’s Hybrid RAID and similar technologies optimize space usage while maintaining protection. For irreplaceable content like family photos, RAID provides peace of mind. For replaceable movies, you might accept the risk and maximize storage space.

Choosing the right hard drives significantly impacts performance and reliability. Our guide on the best NAS drives for Plex media server explains which drives handle 24/7 operation best and why NAS-specific drives matter compared to desktop alternatives.

Network Speed Requirements

1GbE networking provides 125MB/s theoretical maximum, sufficient for multiple 4K streams. However, real-world speeds typically reach 110MB/s, and multiple simultaneous users create bottlenecks. 2.5GbE doubles available bandwidth, future-proofing your setup as libraries grow and streaming demands increase.

WiFi works for client devices but never for the server itself. Always connect your media server via ethernet to ensure reliable streaming. For homes with challenging networking layouts, consider ethernet adapters for streaming to improve client device connectivity.

Power Efficiency for 24/7 Operation

Media servers run continuously, making power consumption a real cost factor. A 30W system costs roughly $26 annually to operate at average US electricity rates. A 6W mini PC like the GMKtec N95 costs just $5 yearly. Over five years, these differences add up significantly.

ARM processors in NAS devices and the Raspberry Pi 5 offer superior efficiency compared to x86 chips. The trade-off involves performance limitations. For pure direct-play serving, efficient ARM or low-power x86 solutions work perfectly. For transcoding or multi-purpose use, accept higher power draws for adequate performance.

Silent operation matters for living room installations. Fanless power supplies for silent operation complement quiet NAS devices and mini PCs, creating systems invisible in both sound and presence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

Choosing the best home servers for media streaming depends entirely on your technical comfort level, budget, and specific needs. The UGREEN DXP2800 earns our top recommendation for most users in 2026 because it balances power, features, and value better than any alternative. The Intel N100 processor with Quick Sync transcoding, 8GB DDR5 RAM, and 2.5GbE networking check every box for under $350.

For budget-conscious users, the GMKtec N95 proves you can build a capable media server for just $240. While limited to direct-play streaming, it handles that task excellently with minimal power consumption. The KAMRUI Pinova P2 offers the best AMD-based option with 16GB RAM and triple display support for just $100 more.

Users prioritizing software polish and expandable storage should choose the Synology DS423. The four drive bays and industry-leading DSM software justify the price premium for those valuing reliability over raw performance. The DS225+ offers a middle ground with 2.5GbE networking and easier setup than DIY alternatives.

Power users and enthusiasts should consider either the GEEKOM IT12 for maximum performance or the Raspberry Pi 5 for ultimate flexibility. The IT12’s i7-1280P processor handles anything you throw at it, while the Pi 5 offers unmatched customization options at the lowest operating cost.

Whichever option you choose, building your own media server liberates you from subscription fees, internet connectivity requirements, and content rotation. Your movies, shows, and music remain available forever, accessible from anywhere, and organized exactly how you prefer. Start with the option matching your budget and comfort level, knowing you can always upgrade as your needs evolve.