If you're equipped with one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, and you're looking for a robust solution to back up or transfer your valuable data, a top-notch NAS (network-attached storage) drive is the way to go. While your machine might already boast a top SSD or sizable external hard drives, nothing beats the versatility and power of a dedicated NAS. Our top recommendation? The Synology DiskStation DS224+.
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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Synology DiskStation DS923+
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ioSafe Duo Pro
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The best NAS drives offer significant storage capacity and seamlessly integrate into your home network, allowing quick data transfers to and from all your devices. Whether it's smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, they can all connect simultaneously, making NAS perfect for managing digital media libraries. However, NAS drives aren't cheap, so it's crucial to choose wisely. Here are eight top options tailored to various needs.
1. Synology DiskStation DS224+
Best NAS
Our Top Pick: Synology DiskStation DS224+
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Easy-to-use and blazing fast, this NAS features two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB upgradable RAM.
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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
If you're looking to avoid complex software or settle for basic hardware, the Synology DiskStation DS224+ is a perfect choice. It offers up to 32TB of storage, depending on your selected drives, or a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The two Gigabit LAN ports support higher speeds with Link Aggregation or network failover, though we wish it had a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN support for even faster connections.
Synology's versatile apps and software run on an intuitive interface, allowing you to store security camera footage, operate as a Plex server, or keep your files and photos safe and accessible. Whether you're transcoding 4K media, managing files, or streaming videos, the DiskStation DS224+ performs swiftly thanks to its powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, which can be upgraded.
2. UGreen NASync DXP2800
Best Budget NAS
UGREEN NASync DXP2800
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With quality hardware, a stylish design, and a modest price, this NAS, featuring dual drive bays, is ready to back up all your files.
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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
The UGreen NASync DXP2800 boasts well-built construction, a sleek design, and quality hardware at a midrange price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, making it ideal for a high-quality video library and smooth hardware transcoding.
UGreen provides a comprehensive OS for easy setup and network configuration, along with extra security features like two-factor authentication. Backing up files and creating your own cloud server for remote access is straightforward. While Plex isn't native, it's easily installable via Docker, maintaining excellent performance.
For storage, the dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, offering ample space for media or redundancy with RAID configurations. UGreen's unique toolless system simplifies drive installation. Additional fast storage is available through two M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs up to 8TB. A 2.5Gb ethernet port ensures speedy SATA file transfers, complemented by HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports for broad device support.
3. Synology DiskStation DS223j
Most Affordable NAS
Synology DiskStation DS223j
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Ultra affordable and easy-to-use NAS, perfect for beginners.
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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
NAS options don't have to break the bank, and the Synology DiskStation DS223j is a testament to that, ideal for NAS novices and those with simpler storage needs. It runs on Synology's top-rated DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering comprehensive applications for seamless file storage and access across devices.
Though its build quality is modest, mainly plastic and requiring a screwdriver for drive installation, it's not a frequent hassle. With a storage limit of 32TB and no M.2 slots for caching or additional storage, and lacking a multi-gig ethernet port, it still excels in simplicity, reliability, and affordability.
4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals
Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
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Featuring an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, drive bays supporting 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, and two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots, this NAS keeps up with demanding tasks.
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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
For those who want to push their NAS to the limits, the Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is the answer. It's equipped with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, expandable to 8GB, and features two drive bays for 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, suitable for massive 18TB hard drives or speedy SSDs. Two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots offer even faster storage options.
With dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports and link aggregation, you can achieve up to 5Gb connectivity. It's easy to configure for speedy backups, virtualization, or a robust media center, and the HDMI 2.0 port supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a stunning 4K HDR experience.
5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+
Best Multi-Bay NAS
Synology DiskStation DS1821+
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For those needing vast storage, this NAS offers eight drive bays with a total 128TB capacity and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots.
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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
If you're managing a huge volume of files, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is your solution. Priced over $1,000, it offers future-ready expandability with eight drive bays for 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, reaching up to 128TB of storage. The drives are hot-swappable, and expansion units can bump it up to 18 drive bays. M.2 2280 NVMe slots enhance high-speed caching, powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory, expandable to 32GB.
6. QNAP TS-264-8G
Best NAS for Media Streaming
QNAP TS-264-8G
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Enjoy a central location for your media library with this NAS offering two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, dual drive bays, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
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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
A NAS is ideal for centralizing your media library, and the QNAP TS-264-8G is designed for streaming. It features dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports to avoid networking bottlenecks, even when multiple users access large media files. It also includes a 4K-capable HDMI output for direct TV connection.
With two 3.5-inch drive bays and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or network speed enhancement, it's powered by an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, ensuring smooth 4K video streaming with hardware transcoding.
7. Synology DiskStation DS923+
Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations
Synology DiskStation DS923+
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Be extra secure in your data backup with this NAS offering four drive bays for ample storage and the ability to run in redundancy with several RAID configurations.
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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 excellent for both data backup and security, offering four drive bays and multiple RAID configurations including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD. This versatility ensures your data is always safe.
The device supports 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, with 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. Powered by a dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, the easy-to-use DSM operating system makes setup a breeze.
8. ioSafe Duo Pro
Best Rugged NAS
ioSafe Duo Pro
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Though technically not a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro drive keeps your data safe from fire and water while offering RAID configurations for extra protection.
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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
While the ioSafe Duo Pro isn't technically a NAS, it's built to withstand fire and water, boasting an IP68 rating that protects against submersion up to 10 feet for 72 hours. It also offers various RAID configurations and robust drive bays for data protection, with ioSafe providing data recovery services. To use it for network storage, you'll need to connect it to your home network via an always-on computer or directly to your router via USB.
What to Look for in NAS
Not everyone needs a NAS, but it can solve specific networking issues. If you and your household share the same network, a NAS device allows file sharing from one central unit. If you don't want to back up each family member's computer individually, a NAS offers a single-drive solution.
What are you using it for?
If you need multiple devices to access the same files or tools, or if you have a large media library you want to access from various devices, a NAS device is invaluable. You can even turn it into a Plex server for seamless media access.
Go diskless? How many bays?
Most NAS devices come without disk drives, requiring separate purchases. If you already have suitable disk drives, this isn't an issue, but always check manufacturer recommendations. The number of bays determines potential capacity; two or more bays are generally recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.
