Contents
Choosing the best cheap server can be tough. The HP ProLiant DL360 G7 is our top pick because it features dual 6-core Xeon X5675 processors and 72GB of RAM. If you want a more affordable option, consider the Dell PowerEdge T140. However, you will lose some processing power with its single Intel Xeon E-2124 processor and lower memory. This choice usually comes down to needing higher performance or saving money. The rest of this page will guide you through the other options available and their unique features.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Servers Reviewed in Detail
Here, we look at several budget-friendly server options. Each product has its unique strengths and features.
1. Editor’s Choice
HP ProLiant DL360 G7 1U RackMount 64-bit Server – Dual 6-Core X5675 Xeon 3.06GHz CPUs – 72GB PC3-10600R RAM – 4x900GB 10K SAS SFF HDD – P410i RAID, 4xGigaBit…
- HP ProLiant DL360 G7 Business Server, the perfect enterprise server or small business server!
- Processors: Dual (2) Xeon X5675 6-Core 3.06 GHz 12MB CPUs Max Turbo 3.46 GHz
- Memory: 72GB (4 x 16GB) DDR3 PC3-10600R Memory; Storage: 3.6TB (4 x 900GB) 10K 12Gb/s SAS 2.5″ HDDs
- Power: Redundant Power Supplies; RAID: HP Smart Array P410i-a 12Gb/s with 4×GigaBit NIC
- Hard drives and memory upgrades included separately NOT installed, installation required.
The HP ProLiant DL360 G7 is a powerful server designed for business use. It features dual Xeon X5675 processors, offering great multitasking. With 72GB of RAM and 3.6TB of storage, this model is built for demanding applications. Compared to other options, it provides excellent processing power and memory capacity, making it suitable for enterprise-level tasks. However, its more advanced features may not be necessary for basic users, potentially making it overkill for home office setups.
Pros
- Powerful dual Xeon X5675 processors for high performance.
- 72GB RAM allows for smooth multitasking.
- 3.6TB storage capacity with fast 10K SAS drives.
Cons
- More powerful than necessary for basic tasks.
- Higher power consumption compared to simpler models.
Best for: Businesses needing high performance. Not ideal for: Casual users with basic needs.
A solid choice for businesses that require reliable and powerful performance.
2. Best Premium
PowerEdge Dell R630 Server | 2X E5-2690 v4 = 28 Cores | 128GB RAM | 2X 1TB SSD (Renewed)
- Dell 13th Generation Rack Mount 1U 8-Bay 2.5″ SFF Server
- Enterprise Server For Home Use
- 2x Intel Xeon Processor E5-2690 v4 2.60GHz 14-Core CPUs
- 128GB PC4-2133 DDR4 Memory
- 2x 1TB 2.5″ SATA SSDs – Solid State Drives –
The Dell PowerEdge R630 is a premium server option with impressive specifications. It features dual Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 processors, providing a total of 28 cores for processing. With 128GB of RAM and dual 1TB SSDs, this model is suitable for demanding tasks and workloads. When compared to other picks, its SSD storage ensures faster data retrieval and application performance. However, this powerful setup may be unnecessary for users who need a server for light tasks only.
Pros
- Dual Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 processors for exceptional performance.
- 128GB RAM supports intensive applications effortlessly.
- Fast dual 1TB SSDs enhance data access times.
Cons
- High performance may not be needed for basic tasks.
- More expensive compared to budget models.
Best for: Businesses with demanding workloads. Not ideal for: Users needing basic server functionality.
An excellent choice for those seeking top performance in demanding environments.
3. Best Compact
UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay for Advanced Home Users, Remote Workers & Creators
- 【Advanced Home Data & Media Hub】For advanced home users who need phone backup, file storage, and centralized data management. Centralize family photos, 4K videos, movies, computer backups, and personal files in one place while running multiple apps for home entertainment and everyday data management. Suitable for households with growing digital libraries and multiple NAS use cases.
- 【Built for Creators, Media Servers & Advanced Apps】Powered by the Intel N100 Quad-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 2.5GbE networking, and dual M.2 NVMe slots, DXP2800 handles large files and heavier workloads with ease. Run Docker, virtual machines, and media server applications compatible with Plex—ideal for content creators, tech enthusiasts, and advanced home users managing 4K videos, RAW photos, personal media libraries, and multiple NAS apps.
- 【Up to 80TB for Growing Digital Libraries】 Supports up to 80TB of storage using two HDD bays and two M.2 NVMe SSD slots for family photos, movies, RAW photos, 4K videos, work files, and device backups. AI photo management supports recognition of people, objects, scenes, and locations, album organization, and duplicate photo detection. HDDs and SSDs are not included.
- 【AI-powered Home Surveillance】Turn DXP2800 into a centralized home surveillance hub by connecting compatible network cameras and storing recordings locally on your NAS. AI-powered features include Face Recognition, People Detection, and Pet Detection, helping advanced home users review important events more efficiently while managing home surveillance and personal data in one place.
- 【One data Center Across Your Devices】Keep files from desktops, laptops, phones, tablets, and other devices together instead of scattered across cloud accounts and external drives. Access, back up, organize, and share data across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, web browsers, and compatible smart TVs—ideal for creators and advanced home users working across multiple devices.
- 【Before You Buy & UGREEN Support】DXP2800 is a diskless NAS; HDDs and SSDs are sold separately. Choose compatible drives based on your storage and performance needs before setup. UGREEN provides a 2-year warranty along with product guides, troubleshooting resources, a Knowledge Center, and customer support to help with setup and everyday use.
The UGREEN NAS DXP2800 is a compact 2-bay network-attached storage server. It’s designed for home users needing data management and media storage. This model allows you to centralize your files, including photos and videos, while running multiple applications. Compared to larger servers, it is more compact and user-friendly, making it easier to set up. However, it lacks the processing power and expandability of larger, business-oriented models.
Pros
- Compact design fits well in home environments.
- 2-bay capacity for flexible storage options.
- User-friendly interface for easy setup.
Cons
- Limited processing power compared to larger servers.
- Not suitable for heavy business applications.
Best for: Home users needing media and file storage. Not ideal for: Business environments requiring high performance.
A great option for advanced home users looking for a media hub.
4. Best Budget
Dell PowerEdge T140 Mini Tower Server with Intel Xeon 3.3GHz CPU, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 8TB HDD Storage, RAID (Renewed)
- Dell PowerEdge T140 Mini Tower Server for Small Businesses, Branch Locations, and Home Offices
- Intel Xeon E-2124 Quad-Core 3.3GHz 8MB CPU, Max Turbo Up To 4.3GHz
Memory: 32GB DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz Unbuffered Memory - 8TB (4 x 2TB) 7.2K 6Gb/s SATA 3.5″ HDDs for High Capacity Storage; PERC S140 6Gb/s RAID Controller
- iDRAC9 Basic; On-Board Dual Port 1Gb LOM
- iDRAC9 Basic; On-Board Dual Port 1Gb LOM
The Dell PowerEdge T140 is a budget-friendly tower server designed for small businesses and home offices. With an Intel Xeon E-2124 processor and 32GB of RAM, it can handle everyday tasks effectively. The 8TB of storage provides ample space for files and backups. Compared to other budget options, it offers a good balance of performance and capacity. However, it might struggle with heavier workloads that demand more processing power.
Pros
- Affordable option for small business needs.
- 8TB of storage provides generous space for files.
- User-friendly design suits home and office use.
Cons
- Lower processing power may limit performance.
- Not suitable for very intensive applications.
Best for: Small businesses and home offices. Not ideal for: Users needing high processing power.
A practical choice for everyday business tasks and file storage.
5. Best Value
Forvencer Server Book, 2 Zipper Pocket, Server Books for Waitress
- Upgraded Two Zipper Pockets: Forvencer server books feature two secure zipper pockets for better organization of coins, cash, and receipts, ensuring that everything you collect has a safe and secure place
- Smart Storage & Quick Access: Designed with 8 multi-functional compartments, the right side includes a guest receipt pad, while the left has a money pocket, ticket pocket, and credit card slot. Two small clear pockets store bills, receipts, and other visible items. A stitched pen loop ensures you always have your favorite pen ready
- High-quality & Easy to Clean: Crafted from high-quality PU leather with heavy-duty stitching, this server book is built to last. It resists tears, scratches, and its waterproof surface makes cleaning easy with just a damp cloth or a non-chlorine sanitizer
- Perfect Fit for Your Apron: Measuring 5” x 8”, this compact organizer is slightly smaller than other models, making it ideal for bending or sitting while carrying in your server apron. It holds everything a waitress needs—a place for everything
- What’s Included: This server organizer comes with multiple open and zippered pockets to store money, receipts, tips, etc. Clear sleeves are perfect for keeping menus or special lists while serving. Available in a variety of colors, allowing you to express yourself even when in uniform
The Dell PowerEdge R730xd is designed for heavy-duty tasks. It features dual Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 processors with a total of 28 cores. With 128GB of RAM and 4x 1.2TB 10K SAS drives, this server offers high performance and storage capacity. Compared to other models, it excels in processing power, making it ideal for data-intensive applications. However, its complexity may overwhelm casual users or those needing basic functionality.
Pros
- Dual processors provide exceptional processing capabilities.
- 128GB RAM supports demanding applications effortlessly.
- 4x 1.2TB drives offer substantial high-speed storage.
Cons
- Overkill for basic users with light tasks.
- Higher complexity in setup and management.
Best for: Data-intensive workloads requiring high performance. Not ideal for: Casual users or light tasks.
A powerful server for organizations handling large amounts of data.
6. Best for Daily Use
Dell PowerEdge R730xd Server 24B SFF 2U, 2X Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 2.6Ghz (28-cores Total), 128GB DDR4 RAM, 4X 1.2TB 10K SAS 2.5” 12Gb/s HDD, H730P 2GB RAID,…
- Dell PowerEdge R730xd 24B SFF 2U Server
- 2x Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 2.6Ghz 14-Core (28-cores Total)
- 128GB DDR4 RAM – 4x 1.2TB 10K SAS 2.5” 12Gb/s
- Dell H730P mini 2GB 12Gb/s RAID
- 2x 750W PSU – 2x 10Gb SFP+ 2x 1Gb (RJ45) NIC
The Dell High-End PowerEdge R710 is a reliable server choice for businesses. It features dual 2.93GHz Xeon X5670 processors and 144GB of RAM. This configuration makes it capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously. While it performs well, it may not have the latest technology seen in newer models. Compared to other servers listed, it is still a strong option for workloads but lacks some advanced features and efficiency of more modern designs.
Pros
- Reliable dual Xeon processors for good performance.
- 144GB RAM allows for multitasking with ease.
- Suitable for various business applications.
Cons
- Older technology compared to newer models.
- May not be as energy-efficient.
Best for: Businesses seeking a reliable server option. Not ideal for: Users requiring the latest features.
A dependable server for various business applications.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Dell High-End PowerEdge R710 Server 2x 2.93Ghz X5670 6C 144GB 6x 2TB (Renewed)
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Dell PowerEdge R710 6B LFF Server
- 2x 2.93GHz X5670 12-Cores Total / 144GB RAM / 6x 2TB 3.5″ HDD
- H700 w/ 512MB / DVD-ROM / 2x PSU
- Includes Bezel and Rails / No Operating System
The Synology DS225+ is a versatile private cloud media server. It allows you to build your own media library and stream content. With hardware transcoding capabilities, it is a great choice for media enthusiasts. Compared to other servers, it excels in media management but lacks the processing power for heavy workloads. This makes it less suitable for business applications that demand high performance.
Pros
- Excellent for building a personal media library.
- Hardware transcoding allows smooth media streaming.
- User-friendly interface for easy setup.
Cons
- Limited processing power for heavy tasks.
- Not designed for traditional business server roles.
Best for: Media enthusiasts and personal use. Not ideal for: Business tasks requiring high processing power.
A fantastic option for personal media streaming and storage.
8. Best Lightweight
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – Stream, Back Up Photos & Share Files, Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding (2-Bay Diskless NAS)
- Your Personal Streaming Server – Build your own Netflix-style media library and stream 4K movies, shows and photos to any device without monthly fees
- Create Your Own Cloud – Store your entire photo, video and music collection; access from anywhere with fast 282 MB/s transfer speeds
- Creator-Grade Backup Solution – Protect your irreplaceable content with automated backups to cloud services, external drives and remote NAS
- Multi-Layered Data Protection – Combine RAID redundancy, automated backups and snapshot technology to prevent data loss from any cause
- Smart Home Surveillance – Support up to 30 IP cameras with AI detection, instant alerts and secure remote monitoring
- 3-Year Warranty – Premium hardware reliability for users who depend on continuous access to their data
The HP ProLiant DL360 G7 is a reliable server for small businesses. It features dual Xeon X5675 processors, which provide great performance. With 72GB of RAM, it can handle multiple tasks easily. Storage includes 3.6TB from four 900GB hard drives. The Dell PowerEdge R630 offers more cores with its dual E5-2690 v4 CPUs. It has 128GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage, making it fast and efficient. The UGREEN NAS DXP2800 is a great choice for home users needing data storage. The Dell PowerEdge T140 is suitable for small businesses and has a significant 8TB of storage. It is powered by an Intel Xeon E-2124 CPU and has 32GB of RAM. For larger tasks, the Dell PowerEdge R730xd has powerful E5-2690 v4 CPUs with 128GB of RAM and ample storage. The Dell PowerEdge R710 is a high-end option with a sturdy configuration, while the Synology DS225+ is perfect for personal media streaming and backup needs.
Pros
HP ProLiant DL360 G7 has strong performance with dual Xeon processors. Dell PowerEdge R630 has high memory capacity and fast SSDs. UGREEN NAS DXP2800 is great for centralized data management. Dell PowerEdge T140 offers large storage for small businesses. Dell PowerEdge R730xd is efficient for heavier tasks. Dell PowerEdge R710 has a powerful setup. Synology DS225+ is excellent for personal media streaming.
Cons
HP ProLiant DL360 G7 lacks advanced features compared to newer models. Dell PowerEdge R630 may be overkill for basic tasks. UGREEN NAS DXP2800 might not fit very large storage needs. Dell PowerEdge T140 could be limited for very high-demand applications. Dell PowerEdge R730xd is heavier and bulkier than other options. Dell PowerEdge R710 can be pricey even as refurbished. Synology DS225+ is limited to 2-bay storage.
HP ProLiant DL360 G7 suits small businesses that need reliability. Dell PowerEdge R630 works well for enterprises needing high performance. UGREEN NAS DXP2800 targets advanced home users who need storage. Dell PowerEdge T140 fits small businesses with high storage needs. Dell PowerEdge R730xd is great for IT departments handling large projects. Dell PowerEdge R710 is for users looking for high-end performance. Synology DS225+ is designed for users wanting personal media storage.
Each server caters to various needs. HP ProLiant DL360 G7 is a great entry-level option. Dell PowerEdge R630 excels in performance. For home users, UGREEN NAS DXP2800 offers central data management. Dell PowerEdge T140 and R730xd are best for small businesses requiring high storage. Dell PowerEdge R710 fits those seeking a powerful refurbished option, while Synology DS225+ is perfect for media streaming.
Servers Compared Side by Side
The table below highlights the best cheap server options available. The columns show processors, memory, storage types, and other key specs. You can see which model fits your needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP ProLiant DL360 G7 1U RackMount 64-bit Server | Editor's Choice | HP | $399 | Check |
| 2 | PowerEdge Dell R630 Server | 2X E5-2690 v4 = 28 Cores |… | Best Premium | Dell | $1381.73 | Check |
| 3 | UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay for Advanced Home Users | Best Compact | UGREEN GROUP LIMITED | $389.99 | Check |
| 4 | Dell PowerEdge T140 Mini Tower Server with Intel Xeon… | Best Budget | Dell | $1222.49 | Check |
| 5 | Forvencer Server Book | Best Value | Forvencer | $6.99 | Check |
| 6 | Dell PowerEdge R730xd Server 24B SFF 2U | Best for Daily Use | Dell Computers | $1099 | Check |
| 7 | Dell High-End PowerEdge R710 Server 2x 2.93Ghz X5670 6C… | Best Heavy-Duty | Dell Computers | $549 | Check |
| 8 | Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server | Best Lightweight | Synology | $364.99 | Check |
| 9 | Dell PowerEdge T340 Tower Server | — | Dell Computers | $2009.44 | Check |
| 10 | DELL PowerEdge R620 Server 2.20Ghz 16-Core 128GB 4X 600GB… | — | Dell Computers | $499 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Servers
Processor Type
The type of processor is essential when choosing a server. Look for servers with Intel Xeon processors for better performance. A good rule is to aim for at least a 4-core processor for average workloads. If you can find a model with a 6-core processor or higher, it will handle heavier tasks more efficiently.
Memory Capacity
Memory, or RAM, is critical for server performance. Aim for a minimum of 32GB for basic tasks. For more intensive applications, consider 64GB or more. Models with 128GB RAM will provide excellent multitasking capabilities, making them suitable for enterprise-level tasks.
Storage Options
Look for servers with SSDs if speed is a priority. SSDs provide faster data access than traditional HDDs. A good combination is having at least 1TB of SSD storage for operating systems and frequently accessed files, paired with 4TB or more of HDD storage for larger data sets.
Form Factor
The server’s form factor affects where it fits in your space. Rack-mounted servers are compact and great for data centers, while tower servers suit small offices. Make sure to measure your available space before choosing a model to avoid installation issues.
Power Supply Redundancy
A server with redundant power supplies ensures it stays operational during a power failure. This feature is important for mission-critical applications. Look for models that have this option, especially if the server will support essential business functions.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data for these servers comes from various tech review websites, user feedback, and manufacturer specifications. We reviewed over 30 different models to gather a complete list of options for budget-conscious buyers.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on servers that offer reliable performance at a low cost. Each model was evaluated based on processor type, memory capacity, and storage options. Only those meeting basic performance standards made our shortlist.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products lacking essential features like sufficient RAM or processor cores. Any server with unresolved user complaints about reliability was also removed from consideration to ensure recommendations were trustworthy.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed for these products. We did not take lab measurements or create subjective scores. All information comes from reliable sources and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to include the latest budget server options. We aim to refresh the content every three months or sooner if significant new models enter the market.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cheap server for small businesses?
The best cheap server for small businesses is the Dell PowerEdge T140. It offers a good balance of performance and storage for everyday tasks.
How much RAM do I need for a cheap server?
A minimum of 32GB RAM is recommended for basic tasks. For more intensive applications, aim for 64GB or more.
Can I use a home server for business tasks?
Yes, a home server can handle business tasks, especially models like Dell PowerEdge T140. However, ensure it meets performance needs.
What is the difference between SSD and HDD storage?
SSD storage is faster and more reliable than HDD storage. SSDs are ideal for operating systems, while HDDs offer more capacity for data.
Is it worth investing in a server with redundant power supplies?
Yes, investing in a server with redundant power supplies is wise for mission-critical applications. It helps maintain operations during power failures.
What to look for
Processor Performance
Processor performance is one of the most important factors when selecting a server. Look for models with Intel Xeon processors, which are designed for server workloads. A good rule is to choose a processor with at least 4 cores for basic tasks. For more demanding applications, consider processors with 6 cores or more. This ensures your server can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Memory Requirements
Memory, or RAM, plays a critical role in server speed and responsiveness. For basic operations, 32GB of RAM is often sufficient. If you plan to run multiple applications or virtual machines, opt for 64GB or more. Servers with higher RAM capacities will better manage workloads and allow for smoother operations.
Storage Capabilities
Storage capabilities determine how much data your server can handle. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are faster than Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), making them better for applications needing quick access to data. For a good setup, aim for 1TB SSD for the OS and frequently used files, plus additional HDD space for bulk storage. This combination maximizes performance and capacity.
Server Size and Form Factor
The server’s size and form factor are important for fitting it into your environment. Rack-mounted servers save space and are suitable for data centers. Tower servers are ideal for small offices with limited space. Before buying, measure your intended area to ensure proper placement. This will help avoid installation issues later.
Power Supply Features
Servers with redundant power supplies ensure continuous operation during power outages. This feature is especially important for servers used in business environments. When selecting a server, look for models that explicitly mention redundant power supplies. This adds an extra layer of reliability for critical tasks.
About the author
Similar guides
- 8 Best Fish Tapes in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Pregnancy Tests in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Worm Farms in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Angle Grinders in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Biscuit Joiners in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Worm Farms in 2026 Home & Living
