£500 or less Linux Workstation – Plex Transcoding, VMs, Homelab – Open to Older Parts

[roccles]

Hi,

I’m looking to build a Linux-based workstation PC with a budget of around £500. This won’t be used for gaming — it’s mainly to help me get deeper into Linux without the risk of breaking my main machine.


I’m happy to use older parts (up to 10 years old) if they still perform well and meet my needs.

Key use cases

• Programming
• Running virtual machines and Docker
• Plex server (will always need to transcode, accessed via TV/Xbox apps)
• Home Assistant
• General use (browsing, YouTube, etc.)

Build goals

• CPU: Strong multi-core performance
• RAM: 64GB ideally
• GPU: No gaming needs, but must support hardware transcoding for Plex
• Storage: At least 1TB
• Form Factor: Would love a small/compact build, but full-size is fine too
• Noise: Quiet or near-silent preferred

I started looking at some of the popular mini PCs, but I feel like I could build something much better for the same price — especially if I can make use of older components.

Any recommendations or part lists would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers

 

[roccles]

Thanks guys, that gives me some interesting avenues to investigate.