There are tons of options for dedicated node hardware- try old mini PCs and upgrade the storage to 2tb Some like this https://ebay.us/m/xRYQkt

And cheap 2tb ssd: https://pcpartpicker.com/product/pXRwrH/teamgroup-qx-2-tb-25-solid-state-drive-t253x7002t0c101

I have built with those mini HP PCs before, they have a good design imo.

Then you can download StartOS from start9 for free. Send some donation sats to them later.