Are you the proud owner of one of the best gaming PCs or laptops? If you're looking for a seamless way to back up or transfer your precious data, including files stored on a top SSD or large external hard drives, consider investing in a top-notch NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Our top pick, the Synology DiskStation DS224+, stands out as an excellent choice for reliable and efficient data storage.
TL;DR – These are the Best NAS Devices:
Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+
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### UGREEN NASync DXP2800
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### Synology DiskStation DS223j
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### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
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### Synology DiskStation DS1821+
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### QNAP TS-264-8G
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### SynologyDiskStation DS923+
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### ioSafe Duo Pro
0See it at ioSafe
The best NAS drives offer substantial storage capacity and integrate seamlessly with your home network, allowing for swift data transfers between your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, a NAS can connect them all simultaneously, making it ideal for managing large digital media libraries. However, since NAS devices can be a significant investment, it's crucial to choose wisely. We've curated a list of eight outstanding NAS options tailored to various needs.
Synology DiskStation DS224+
Best NAS
Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+
0This easy-to-use, high-speed NAS comes equipped with two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a robust Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM. It's perfect for those who want a straightforward yet powerful NAS solution. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
RAID Level: SHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
Size: 9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"
PROS
- Easy-to-use interface
- Fast quad-core processor
CONS
- No multi-gig LAN port
The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is the perfect choice for those looking to avoid complex software while still benefiting from a highly capable NAS. With two drive bays, you can expand your storage up to 32TB or opt for a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The dual Gigabit LAN ports enhance speed with Link Aggregation or network failover support, although a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN option would be a welcome addition for even faster connections.
Synology's versatile apps and software make it easy to set up the DS224+ for various uses, such as storing security camera footage, running a Plex server, or safeguarding your files and photos. Powered by an Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM (which is upgradable), this NAS handles tasks like 4K media transcoding, file management, and video streaming with ease and speed.
UGreen NASync DXP2800
Best Budget NAS
### UGREEN NASync DXP2800
0This NAS offers quality hardware and a sleek design at a budget-friendly price, with dual drive bays for ample file backup. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB, HDMI
RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, Basic
Storage: 2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
Size: Not listed
PROS
- Comprehensive OS and apps
- Multi-gig ethernet
CONS
- No native Plex support
The UGreen NASync DXP2800 combines quality hardware, an attractive design, and a competitive price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, making it ideal for managing a high-quality video library with smooth hardware transcoding.
UGreen's comprehensive OS simplifies setup and network configuration, while additional security features like two-factor authentication keep your data secure. Although Plex isn't native, it can be easily installed via Docker without compromising performance. The dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, offering plenty of space for media storage or RAID redundancy. UGreen's toolless installation system makes adding drives a breeze, and two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB. A 2.5Gb ethernet port ensures rapid file transfers, complemented by HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports for versatile device connectivity.
Synology DiskStation DS223j
Most Affordable NAS
### Synology DiskStation DS223j
0This ultra-affordable NAS is perfect for beginners and those with basic storage needs. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB
RAID Level: Basic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHR
Storage: 2 x 3.5" bays
Size: 6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"
PROS
- Reliable hardware
- Easy to use
CONS
- Lacks multi-gig ethernet port
The Synology DiskStation DS223j is an excellent choice for those new to NAS or with simpler storage requirements. It runs on Synology's renowned DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, providing comprehensive applications for seamless file storage and access across devices.
While the build quality is primarily plastic and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, the DS223j offers up to 32TB of storage without M.2 slots or multi-gig ethernet for faster transfers. However, its simplicity, reliability, and affordability make it an unbeatable option for basic NAS needs.
Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals
### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
0This NAS is perfect for power users, featuring an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, and versatile storage options. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.0, HDMI
RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
Size: 9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"
PROS
- Dual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storage
- Supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding
CONS
- Drive installation is more involved
The Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is the go-to NAS for power users and professionals. With an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of upgradable RAM, it's ready for intensive tasks. The two drive bays support 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, and you can choose between large 18TB hard drives or speedy SSDs. For even faster performance, two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots are available.
Setting up the network is straightforward, thanks to dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports that can be combined for 5Gb connectivity via link aggregation. This NAS is perfect for speedy backups, virtualization, or as a powerful media center, with an HDMI 2.0 port and support for 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a superior 4K HDR experience.
Synology DiskStation DS1821+
Best Multi-Bay NAS
### Synology DiskStation DS1821+
0Ideal for those needing extensive storage, this NAS offers eight drive bays for up to 128TB capacity and M.2 2280 NVMe slots. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)
Storage: 8 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
Size: 18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"
PROS
- Wild 128TB capacity
- Hot-swappable drives
CONS
- Can get noisy
For users with a vast amount of files and data, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ offers a robust solution. Priced over $1,000, this NAS is future-proof with its expandability. It features eight drive bays for 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, providing up to 128TB of storage, and supports hot-swapping. Expansion units can increase capacity to 18 drive bays, and M.2 2280 NVMe slots enable high-speed caching. The system is powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 ECC memory.
QNAP TS-264-8G
Best NAS for Media Streaming
### QNAP TS-264-8G
0This NAS is designed for media streaming, offering dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, HDMI
RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBOD
Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
Size: 8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"
PROS
- Compact design
- Impressive hardware
CONS
- Software is harder to master
The QNAP TS-264-8G is tailored for media streaming, avoiding network bottlenecks with dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports. It's perfect for streaming large media files to multiple devices and can be set up next to your TV with its 4K-capable HDMI output.
This NAS includes two 3.5-inch drive bays for ample storage, and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or network speed enhancements. An Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory ensure smooth 4K video streams with hardware transcoding.
Synology DiskStation DS923+
Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations
### SynologyDiskStation DS923+
0Ensure your data is backed up securely with this NAS, featuring four drive bays and multiple RAID configurations. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, eSATA
RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBOD
Storage: 4 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
Size: 6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7"
PROS
- Offers various RAID levels
- Expandable storage and RAM
CONS
- No multi-gig LAN port
The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is ideal for secure data backups, offering four drive bays for ample storage and the flexibility of multiple RAID configurations. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD, allowing you to choose the best setup for your data protection needs.
The DS923+ accommodates 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives and includes two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. It features two 1Gb ethernet ports with Link Aggregation or Failover support, and the option to add 10Gb connectivity. The NAS is powered by a high-performing dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, running on the user-friendly DSM operating system.
ioSafe Duo Pro
Best Rugged NAS
### ioSafe Duo Pro
0This rugged drive isn't a traditional NAS but offers fireproof and water-resistant protection, along with RAID configurations for added data security. See it at ioSafe
Product Specifications
Connection: USB 3.2
RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPAN
Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
Size: 11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"
PROS
- Fireproof and water-resistant
- Offers two robust, long-lasting drive bays
CONS
- Not designed to be a NAS
The ioSafe Duo Pro is built for those concerned about physical damage to their storage devices. It's fireproof and water-resistant, with an IP68 rating for protection against submersion up to 10 feet for 72 hours.
While not a traditional NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers robust drive bays and various RAID configurations for data protection. It also includes data recovery services. To use it as a network storage solution, you'll need to share it through an always-on computer or connect it directly to your router via USB.
What to Look for in NAS
A NAS can be a valuable addition to your home network, particularly if you and your family share devices and need a centralized file storage solution. It simplifies the backup process by allowing you to store and access files from one central unit, accessible by multiple devices.
What are you using it for?
If you need to share files among multiple devices or access a large media library from various points in your home, a NAS could be the perfect solution. You can even set up a NAS as a Plex server to stream movies, TV shows, and music to all your home devices.
Go diskless? How many bays?
Most NAS devices are sold without disk drives, requiring you to purchase them separately. This can be advantageous if you already own compatible drives, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal performance.
The number of bays determines the potential storage capacity of your NAS. Generally, two or more bays are recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.
