Ask HN: Short-depth rack server for home lab recommendation

Would an M1 Mac Mini be a viable option for the aforementioned use cases? Would certainly be attractive size-wise. Nevertheless, I have a full-width 19“ cabinet.

I use a hp business desktop with ssds. Think I am up to an i5-6th gen cpu. The advantage this type of box gives you is quietness. It costs about £3 per month to run 24/7.

SuperMicro 5019D-FTN4 (or 5019A-FTN4 if a little low power Atom CPU would cover your needs)

As others have said I would avoid rack mount stuff if you can. It's big and noisy.

Take a look at the mid-tier Synology units, they have Docker support and relatively nice specs

Huh, interesting! Running Docker on a NAS definitely wouldn’t have crossed my mind. Thanks.