What difference does it make whether it's a laptop or a desktop? Just go to the power options, set it to "always on", and enjoy it. If all you're using it for is Plex, install it, tell it what folders your media is in, and enjoy. Frustration? From what?
The reason why I suggested a laptop is because they are typically cheaper or maybe the same cost as a desktop, but you get a screen and added portability and flexibility essentially for free. They are also typically lower power and will save you on electricity costs. Plus, they are built for you which really makes your life easier.
I mean, ok, if you don't want a laptop, get a Pentium G3258 combo for $70 from Newegg; that's what I use and it's been rock stable and has given me hours of enjoyment. I bought a cheap Radeon 280x to put in it as well and it's actually a very potent setup for 1080p gaming on the big screen which is a lot of fun. It's a much more powerful gaming system than even the PS4, it cost me about the same as a PS4, the games are much, much cheaper, and they run at higher resolution with better graphics and more effects.
I just really find the dedicated NAS boxes really limited. A decent NAS costs about as much as a low end laptop, however the NAS will have far less functionality and it will be much slower as well.
The NAS is arguably more stable but like I said, I have been running HTPC boxes for years now and I have yet to have a problem.
The interface on Plex is great as well.
Heck, if you don't want to use Plex, just install XBMC directly on the laptop/desktop. IMO this is also better than those cheap Linux "XMBC boxes" that you can get online shipped from China. Again, the laptop is far more powerful and versatile.
I will say that Plex with the HTPC server is the best solution though. You know what though, I don't even wind up using Plex or XBMC on mine; I just use Windows Explorer and play the files on VLC directly. I find it's simpler that way. XBMC does have a nicer interface, though, I will say that much.
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