mini PC + old TV = smart TV

[Botjan_Gabrove]

I have this mini PC that I use as a personal fileserver (and other servers/stuff but I mostly use it to play around with).
I am thinking about connecting it to my non-smart TV and use it as media player (it is perfectly capable of playing media).

The server is always running, so I don't have any desktop installed as I wanted it to use as few resources as possible.

I am thinking about installing ubuntu + xfce (xubuntu) and use e.g. VLC for the player. Is this a good idea or are there any better solutions out there?

[howefield]

Have a look at Kodi.

You won't need a desktop environment but will need an X server.

[MartyBuntu]

I am thinking about installing ubuntu + xfce (xubuntu) and use e.g. VLC for the player. Is this a good idea or are there any better solutions out there?

I'd say you're on the right track. Just go with this setup for the time being, then adjust it as it suits your comfort level.