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
• Key Features
• Performance Benchmarks
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

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