If you're the proud owner of one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, you understand the importance of safeguarding and transferring the vast amount of data they hold. Whether it's housed on a top SSD or spread across multiple external hard drives, your files, photos, and other digital treasures are invaluable. Enter the world of NAS (network-attached storage) drives, where our top recommendation, the Synology DiskStation DS224+, stands out as a premier solution for seamless data management and backup.
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 ioSafeThe best NAS drives offer robust storage capacity and integrate seamlessly into your home network, facilitating quick and efficient data transfers to and from all your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, a NAS ensures that all your devices can connect and sync effortlessly, making it the ideal solution for managing digital media libraries. However, given their cost, selecting the right NAS is crucial. We've curated a list of eight top-notch options tailored to various needs.
Synology DiskStation DS224+
Best NAS
Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+
0The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is an easy-to-use, high-speed NAS equipped with two drive bays, dual Gigabit LAN ports, a robust Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM. It's perfect for users who want a powerful yet straightforward solution for their storage needs.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelSHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"PROSEasy-to-use interfaceFast quad-core processorCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS224+ is the go-to choice for those who want to avoid the hassle of complex software while not compromising on hardware capabilities. With its two drive bays, you can choose to maximize storage up to 32TB or opt for a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The dual Gigabit LAN ports enhance connectivity with support for Link Aggregation and network failover, though the absence of a multi-gig LAN port is noted.
Synology's versatile apps and software are accessible through an intuitive interface, allowing you to use the DS224+ for various purposes, from storing security camera footage to running a Plex server or safely accessing your files and photos. Powered by an Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM (which is upgradable), it handles tasks like 4K media transcoding, file management, and video streaming with ease and speed.
UGreen NASync DXP2800
Best Budget NAS
### UGREEN NASync DXP2800
0Offering quality hardware, a sleek design, and an affordable price, the UGREEN NASync DXP2800 is equipped with dual drive bays, ready to back up all your essential files.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB, HDMIRAID Level JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, BasicStorage2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSizeNot listedPROSComprehensive OS and appsMulti-gig ethernetCONSNo native Plex The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 delivers impressive hardware at a midrange price, featuring an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM. Its design not only looks great but also supports a high-quality video library with smooth hardware transcoding.
UGREEN's comprehensive OS simplifies setup and network configuration, and it includes robust security features like two-factor authentication to protect your data. Setting up backups and creating a personal cloud server for remote access is straightforward. While Plex isn't natively supported, it's easily installable via Docker, maintaining excellent performance.
Storage options include dual SATA drive bays supporting up to 24TB each, perfect for extensive media collections or running RAID for added security. UGREEN's toolless installation system makes adding drives a breeze. Additionally, two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB for fast storage. A 2.5Gb ethernet port ensures rapid file transfers, and various connectivity options like HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A support a wide range of devices.
Synology DiskStation DS223j
Most Affordable NAS
### Synology DiskStation DS223j
0This ultra-affordable and user-friendly NAS is perfect for beginners looking to dive into network storage without breaking the bank.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USBRAID LevelBasic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHRStorage2 x 3.5" baysSize6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"PROSReliable hardwareEasy to useCONSLacks multi-gig ethernet portThe Synology DiskStation DS223j is an excellent entry-level choice for those new to NAS or with simpler storage requirements. It comes with Synology's acclaimed DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering a range of applications that make storing and accessing your files from any device effortless.
While the build quality is primarily plastic and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, this isn't typically a frequent task. The DS223j supports up to 32TB of storage but lacks M.2 slots for caching and a multi-gig ethernet port for faster transfers. Nonetheless, it remains unmatched in terms of simplicity, reliability, and affordability.
Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals
### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T
0Designed for power users and professionals, this NAS boasts an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, and versatile drive bays supporting both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, plus two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for enhanced performance.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.0, HDMIRAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"PROSDual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storageSupports 10-bit 4K hardware decodingCONSDrive installation is more involvedThe Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is tailored for those who demand high performance from their NAS. It's equipped with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, upgradeable to 8GB. The NAS features two drive bays that support 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing flexibility between large capacity and high-speed SSDs. For those seeking even faster performance, two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots are included.
Setting up the network is straightforward, with 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. It also features an HDMI 2.0 port and supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a top-notch 4K HDR experience.
Synology DiskStation DS1821+
Best Multi-Bay NAS
### Synology DiskStation DS1821+
0For those requiring massive storage, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ offers eight drive bays for a total capacity of 128TB and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots for enhanced performance.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)Storage8 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"PROSWild 128TB capacityHot-swappable drivesCONSCan get noisyThe Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is ideal for users with extensive storage needs. While it comes with a higher price tag over $1,000, it offers future-proof expandability. With eight drive bays supporting both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives or SSDs, you get a whopping 128TB of storage, with the added convenience of hot-swappable drives.
For even more storage, the DS1821+ supports expansion units to reach up to 18 drive bays. Additionally, M.2 2280 NVMe slots allow for high-speed caching. The system is powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory, which can be expanded to 32GB.
QNAP TS-264-8G
Best NAS for Media Streaming
### QNAP TS-264-8G
0Designed for media streaming, this NAS features two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, dual drive bays, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, making it a central hub for your media library.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, HDMIRAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBODStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"PROSCompact designImpressive hardwareCONSSoftware is harder to masterThe QNAP TS-264-8G is the perfect NAS for streaming media, offering a central location for your media library. It features dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports to handle high throughput, even with multiple users accessing large files. An integrated 4K HDMI output allows for direct connection to your TV.
With two 3.5-inch drive bays for ample storage and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or enhanced network speeds, this NAS is versatile. 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.
Synology DiskStation DS923+
Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations
### SynologyDiskStation DS923+
0Ensure the utmost data security with this NAS, which offers four drive bays for substantial storage and multiple RAID configurations for redundancy and safety.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, eSATARAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBODStorage4 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7" PROSOffers various RAID levelsExpandable storage and RAMCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS923+ is ideal for users prioritizing data backup and security, offering four drive bays for ample storage and various RAID configurations. With options like RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD, you can tailor your setup to ensure your data remains safe.
The DS923+ supports both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives and includes two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. It features dual 1Gb ethernet ports with support for Link Aggregation or Failover, and the option to add 10Gb connectivity. The NAS is powered by a 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
0While not technically a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers unparalleled protection for your data against fire and water, along with RAID configurations for added security.See it at ioSafeProduct SpecificationsConnectionUSB 3.2RAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPANStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"PROSFireproof and water-resistantOffers two robust, long-lasting drive baysCONSNot designed to be a NASThe ioSafe Duo Pro is designed to keep your data safe from physical damage, with fireproof and water-resistant capabilities. Its IP68 rating ensures protection against submersion in water up to 10 feet for 72 hours.
In addition to physical protection, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers various RAID configurations and robust drive bays for data integrity. ioSafe also provides data recovery services. Note that this device is not specifically designed as a NAS, so for network storage, you'll need to share it via an always-on computer or connect it directly to your router using USB.
What to Look for in NAS
NAS devices are essential for those looking to streamline their network storage needs. If you and your household share a network, a NAS allows you to centralize file sharing. It's also an efficient solution for backing up multiple devices without the need for individual backups.
What are you using it for?
A NAS is invaluable if you need multiple devices to access the same files or tools. It's not just about storage but also about seamless access. Additionally, if you have a large media library that you want accessible across various devices, a NAS can be transformed into a Plex server, offering everyone in your home quick access to movies, TV shows, and music.
Go diskless? How many bays?
Most NAS devices are sold without disk drives, requiring you to purchase them separately. If you already own compatible drives, a diskless system is less of an issue, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal performance.
The number of bays determines the potential storage capacity of your NAS. Two or more bays are generally recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.
