Proxmox

You don’t need a rack server to self-host. In fact, a mini PC is the sweet spot for most homelabbers — low power consumption, silent operation, tiny footprint, and enough performance to run Proxmox with a dozen VMs and containers without breaking a sweat. I’ve tested a lot of these machines. Here are the ones actually worth buying in 2026, organized by budget. Why a Mini PC? Before the recommendations, here’s why mini PCs beat traditional server hardware for most home setups: ...

The hypervisor debate used to be simple: ESXi for enterprise, Proxmox for hobbyists. That’s no longer remotely accurate. After Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware turned the entire VMware ecosystem into a pricing nightmare, the landscape has fundamentally shifted. Let me break down where things stand in 2026. The short version: Proxmox wins for homelabs, small businesses, and an increasing number of enterprises. ESXi still has a place in large enterprise environments with specific compliance needs. But for anyone reading a self-hosting blog? Proxmox. No question. ...