Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V2 Tower Server Review (Intel Xeon E-2314, 32GB RAM, 2x 960GB SSD)

Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V2 Tower Server Review (Intel Xeon E-2314, 32GB RAM, 2x 960GB SSD)

This review dives deep into the Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V2 Tower Server, specifically the model equipped with an Intel Xeon E-2314 processor, 32GB DDR4 RAM, and 2x 960GB SATA SSDs. We’ll explore its performance, features, and overall suitability for different workloads.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V2 is a compact tower server designed for small businesses and workgroups. It offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it a viable option for various applications.

Key Features

  • Intel Xeon E-2314 Processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, 3.2 GHz)
  • 32GB DDR4 ECC Memory
  • Two 960GB SATA SSDs (RAID Capable)
  • Integrated LXPM 2.0 Management
  • 1x 1GbE RJ-45 Network Port
  • Multiple Expansion Slots (PCIe)
  • Quiet Operation
  • Remote Management Capabilities

Performance Benchmarks

We tested the ST50 V2 with a variety of workloads, including:

  • Web Server: The server handled multiple website instances with ease, demonstrating strong performance for web hosting.
  • File Server: The server provided fast file access and transfers, suitable for small to medium-sized file sharing environments.
  • Database Server: The server’s performance was adequate for basic database applications, but more demanding databases might benefit from additional memory or a faster storage option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Affordable price point for the features offered
  • Compact tower design, saving space
  • Solid performance for common workloads
  • Easy to manage and configure
  • Reliable and stable operation

Cons

  • Limited RAM capacity (up to 64GB) might be a bottleneck for resource-intensive tasks
  • Single Gigabit Ethernet port can be a limitation for high-bandwidth applications
  • Storage options are limited to SATA SSDs, which could be slower for demanding workloads

Final Verdict

The Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V2 is a compelling choice for small businesses and workgroups seeking a reliable and affordable server solution. It delivers solid performance for common tasks and is easy to manage. However, its limited RAM capacity and storage options might be a concern for resource-intensive workloads or those requiring high storage speeds. If you’re looking for a server that can handle basic web hosting, file sharing, or light database applications, the ST50 V2 is a good option.

Specifications

Feature Value
Processor Intel Xeon E-2314 (4 Cores, 8 Threads, 3.2 GHz)
Memory 32GB DDR4 ECC
Storage 2x 960GB SATA SSD (RAID Capable)
Network 1x 1GbE RJ-45
Management Integrated LXPM 2.0
Form Factor Tower