The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – The New $500+ NAS Standard?

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus represents a significant step forward in the brand’s 4-bay NAS lineup, targeting users who demand capable hardware and broad feature support at a mid-range price point. Retailing at $569.99, or $484.99 during its introductory discount, it is positioned to compete directly with systems like the Synology DS925+ and QNAP TS-464, both of which occupy similar price and hardware tiers. TerraMaster’s intention with this model is to deliver a “jack of all trades” device that suits both home multimedia environments and small business offices. Internally, it uses Intel’s quad-core N150 processor, part of the newer Twin Lake architecture, with a base clock of 1 GHz and a turbo frequency up to 3.6 GHz. This CPU is paired with 16GB of DDR5 memory, offering a notable upgrade in bandwidth and responsiveness compared to previous DDR4-based TerraMaster models.

Complementing that performance core are three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots and four SATA drive bays, supporting a combined raw capacity of up to 144TB when fully populated. This configuration allows the device to accommodate both large-scale HDD storage for bulk data and high-speed SSD arrays for caching or dedicated performance pools. Dual 5GbE network ports on the rear enable theoretical aggregate transfer speeds exceeding 1,000 MB/s, aligning with the system’s positioning as a performance-focused yet affordable NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system comes preinstalled, providing modernized storage management, AI-based photo organization, and security tools like HyperLock WORM protection and isolation mode. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus arrives as one of the most fully featured mid-tier NAS options available in 2025, combining strong hardware, software maturity, and quiet, power-efficient design suited to both personal and professional use cases.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus delivers one of the most complete mid-tier NAS packages currently available, balancing strong hardware, efficient design, and flexible software at a highly competitive price. Its Intel N150 processor, 16GB of DDR5 memory, and dual 5GbE ports provide ample speed for data-heavy workloads, while three M.2 NVMe slots add rare versatility for caching or SSD-based pools. The all-metal enclosure maintains low temperatures and quiet operation, and the TOS 6 operating system has matured into a capable platform with snapshot protection, Docker, virtualization, and AI photo management. Although it lacks premium details such as drive locks and redundant fans, and the interface remains less refined than Synology DSM or QNAP QTS, the F4-425 Plus stands out as a practical and forward-looking NAS. It bridges affordability and professional capability, making it suitable for home users, content creators, and small offices that need reliable, fast, and adaptable network storage.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS
Amazon in Your Region for the Terramaster F4 SSD NAS @ $569 ($489.99 till 19th Nov)	Terramaster F4-425 PLUS – $569	B&H for the Terramaster F4-425 plus NAS @ $569.99

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Design & Storage

The exterior design of the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus maintains the brand’s familiar compact metal chassis but introduces small refinements that improve both usability and thermals. Measuring 150 by 181 by 219 millimeters and weighing just under 3 kilograms, it fits comfortably into a home office or studio setup without generating significant heat or noise. The enclosure is almost entirely metal, with a brushed silver finish that enhances rigidity and passive cooling compared with earlier plastic-faced designs. Four individual drive trays occupy the front panel, each featuring a simple click-and-load mechanism for 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch drives. Although there are no locking latches or LCD displays, the trays are tool-free and straightforward to handle. A single 120mm fan at the rear provides adjustable cooling across smart, low, and high-speed profiles, maintaining an operational noise level as low as 20.9 dB(A) when idle with drives installed, according to TerraMaster’s own test figures.

From a structural perspective, the F4-425 Plus has clearly benefited from improved thermal management. The metal shell acts as a heat spreader, with typical external temperatures ranging from 25 to 27°C across the enclosure after extended operation, even under multi-day workload testing. Internal drive bays were observed to maintain around 27 to 29°C, while the rear ports and fan area registered between 36 and 38°C during prolonged use. These figures indicate an efficient heat dissipation design, aided by the more conductive chassis material and smart fan calibration. For users concerned with energy efficiency, the power draw remains modest thanks to the Intel N150 processor’s low TDP, allowing the system to idle at roughly 13 watts with SSDs installed and scale to around 60 watts under sustained load with four enterprise-class HDDs spinning.

In terms of drive configuration, the NAS supports up to four SATA 6Gb/s drives and three M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs. This combination provides a theoretical maximum raw capacity of 144TB, assuming four 30TB HDDs and three 8TB SSDs. The inclusion of three NVMe slots rather than the more typical one or two is a notable strength. Each operates on a PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, delivering real-world throughput of approximately 800 to 900 MB/s per SSD, suitable for caching or storage pools. This setup makes it possible to allocate two drives for cache acceleration while dedicating the third to an independent SSD-based pool for high-speed operations like video editing or database hosting. Such flexibility is rare at this price point and broadens the system’s appeal to users with both large data sets and high-performance requirements.

Storage management is handled through TOS 6, TerraMaster’s web-based operating system, which supports a wide range of RAID configurations including TRAID, TRAID+, JBOD, and traditional RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. TOS 6 also enables SSD caching, snapshots, and HyperLock write-once-read-many functionality for data integrity. Users can assign storage pools to specific workloads, such as separating SSD-based scratch space from HDD archival volumes. Combined with the new graphical interface and more detailed health monitoring tools, it provides a much more transparent overview of drive temperatures, utilization, and S.M.A.R.T. status. For additional flexibility, the system supports online RAID migration and expansion, meaning users can start small and scale capacity over time without data loss.

Beyond local storage, the device integrates directly with TerraMaster’s CloudSync service, which connects to providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and Baidu Cloud. Hybrid storage configurations allow partial replication or tiered backup between the NAS and the cloud, offering an extra level of redundancy for professional workflows. External connectivity through USB 3.2 ports also supports direct backups to DAS enclosures or portable drives. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus’s design emphasizes efficient cooling, solid construction, and versatile storage architecture, making it a flexible foundation for both data-heavy projects and long-term digital archiving.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus is structured around Intel’s N150 processor, a 4-core, 4-thread CPU from the Twin Lake generation. Built on a 6W TDP architecture, this chip delivers a significant efficiency advantage over the previous N5095-based systems while offering a higher burst clock of up to 3.6 GHz. The CPU integrates Intel UHD Graphics, allowing 4K hardware decoding for H.264, H.265, VC-1, and MPEG-4, which is particularly beneficial for Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin users who want native transcoding without GPU add-ons.

This combination makes the system viable not only as a file server but also as a local multimedia hub, capable of decoding and streaming 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. Despite being a low-power chip, its instruction set includes AES-NI hardware encryption, ensuring efficient data security without notable throughput loss when encryption is enabled.

The system’s memory architecture uses a single DDR5 SO-DIMM slot, populated with a 16GB non-ECC module by default and expandable up to 32GB. The adoption of DDR5 over DDR4 marks a generational improvement in bandwidth and latency, leading to faster multitasking, smoother virtualization performance, and reduced overhead when handling multiple users or services. The memory module is non-ECC but benefits from on-die error correction at the hardware level, offering stability improvements over standard DDR4 implementations. This approach aligns with the unit’s target demographic of small offices, creators, and advanced home users who want server-grade responsiveness without enterprise complexity.

Storage connectivity within the system is distributed between four SATA III 6Gb/s interfaces managed by an ASMedia controller and three PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes dedicated to M.2 NVMe SSDs. This configuration ensures balanced throughput for simultaneous HDD and SSD activity. Internally, the layout is straightforward, providing easy access to both the memory slot and M.2 bays via the removable top panel. The power supply is a single 90W external brick, keeping internal temperatures lower and simplifying maintenance.

Together, the hardware configuration represents a thoughtful balance between efficiency, expandability, and performance, aimed at users who need consistent data access, multimedia capabilities, and reliable long-term operation without excess noise or heat.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus offers a broad range of connectivity designed to meet both high-speed networking and general expansion needs. On the rear panel, two 5GbE RJ-45 network ports serve as the central performance feature. These are among the first dual 5GbE implementations in a mid-tier NAS, and each port operates through its own dedicated PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, avoiding bandwidth contention. In testing, each port achieved full theoretical throughput, confirming proper lane allocation. Users can enable link aggregation or SMB multichannel for multi-user workloads, although saturating both ports simultaneously requires fast SSD or hybrid storage configurations. These ports support IPv4/IPv6, VLAN tagging, link aggregation, and Wake-on-LAN, making the system suitable for both small office environments and direct workstation connections.

Complementing the network interfaces, the F4-425 Plus includes four USB 3.2 ports: three Type-A and one Type-C, all operating at 10Gbps. These ports can handle external DAS enclosures, UPS devices, or high-capacity backup drives. The inclusion of a front-mounted USB port improves convenience for ad hoc backups or quick file transfers, addressing a long-standing omission in earlier TerraMaster models. Additionally, an HDMI 2.1 output is positioned on the rear, though its practical use remains limited within TOS, which lacks a native display interface. It may, however, prove useful for third-party operating systems such as Unraid or TrueNAS, where direct console access or local media playback is desired.

Overall, the port layout is clean and efficient, optimized for straightforward cable management. The system’s single large fan sits adjacent to the networking array, allowing for effective airflow without excessive cable obstruction. Power is supplied through a standard barrel connector linked to an external 90W adapter, which helps reduce internal heat buildup. Though it lacks built-in 10GbE or PCIe expansion, the dual 5GbE setup provides more than enough bandwidth for its class, especially when paired with NVMe caching. Users can also connect the NAS to TerraMaster’s USB-based DAS units for storage expansion or off-site replication, offering flexibility without compromising portability or noise levels.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Tests, Noise, Heat and Power Consumption

Performance testing on the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus showed that the system comfortably meets its advertised speed class, particularly when networked over a single 5GbE connection. Using four Toshiba MG-series 7200 RPM enterprise hard drives configured in RAID 5, the system achieved full saturation of one 5GbE port during both AJA and ATTO benchmark tests, reaching consistent read and write speeds around 500 to 520 MB/s. When tested with mixed media files totaling 50.5 GB, it completed the transfer in approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds, equating to an average throughput of about 224 MB/s.

This is a strong result for a mechanical-drive setup, reflecting efficient caching and balanced SATA bandwidth. SMB Multichannel and link aggregation are supported, though the CPU’s available PCIe lanes limit simultaneous dual-port saturation. Even so, the system handles multiple concurrent transfers and backups without a noticeable decline in throughput.

Testing with NVMe SSDs improved overall responsiveness considerably. The three M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots each sustained sequential transfer rates between 800 and 900 MB/s, allowing the NAS to maintain a high level of random IOPS for metadata-heavy workloads. When used as cache devices, these drives accelerated small-file transfers and application access times, especially when paired with the system’s 16GB of DDR5 memory.

TerraMaster’s TOS 6 supports flexible use of these drives, enabling independent storage pools or hybrid cache layers, depending on the task. In sustained transfers over SMB and iSCSI, the system achieved write speeds close to 950 MB/s and reads near 1020 MB/s when using SSD-based arrays, validating the advantage of dual 5GbE interfaces for all-flash or mixed-tier environments.

Power consumption during operation remained modest, aligning with the platform’s efficient design. With no hard drives installed and three SSDs active, idle draw measured around 13.3 watts. Adding four 7200 RPM HDDs increased idle power to 55 watts and full-load consumption to roughly 61–63 watts under concurrent read/write activity. These figures indicate a well-balanced design that prioritizes power efficiency without restricting performance. Fan speed settings affect both thermals and acoustics predictably: in low-speed mode, the NAS operated near 33 dB(A), while mid and high-speed profiles raised that figure to 37 and 39 dB(A) respectively. During heavy disk operations, readings peaked briefly at around 43 dB(A), which is reasonable given the metal chassis and high-RPM drives used in testing.

Thermal results further underscored the system’s stability. Surface readings from the aluminum body remained between 25°C and 27°C on average, while drive bays hovered at 28–30°C after extended workload sessions. The rear fan exhaust area reached approximately 36–38°C under sustained load. The efficient heat dispersion of the chassis prevented thermal throttling during prolonged transfers or virtualization testing, even with all seven storage devices active. This consistent temperature range indicates that TerraMaster’s choice of single-fan cooling and full-metal housing achieves a practical balance between noise, airflow, and longevity.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus demonstrates how far the company’s mid-range NAS lineup has progressed in terms of hardware refinement and real-world usability. By combining Intel’s efficient N150 processor with 16GB of DDR5 memory, dual 5GbE connectivity, and triple M.2 NVMe slots, it provides a specification normally reserved for higher-priced units. The build quality, centered around a full-metal chassis and quiet cooling design, contributes to consistent thermals and low power usage even under multi-day workloads. While the design omits premium touches like drive locks or redundant fans, the emphasis on practicality and efficient cooling makes it a dependable solution for continuous operation. From a user experience perspective, the integration of TOS 6 represents TerraMaster’s most stable and capable operating system to date, offering improved security features, cloud synchronization tools, snapshot management, and flexible storage configurations that appeal to both home and small office users.

From a value standpoint, the F4-425 Plus stands out as one of the most competitively priced NAS units in its category. At $569.99, or $484.99 during the initial discount period, it delivers strong network and storage performance that aligns closely with rivals from Synology and QNAP while retaining open installation flexibility for third-party platforms such as Unraid or TrueNAS. Its combination of high-speed connectivity, compact design, and mature software environment makes it an appealing option for anyone seeking a 4-bay system capable of multitasking across media streaming, data backup, and light virtualization. Although it cannot fully match the polish of Synology DSM or the plugin ecosystem of QNAP QTS, TerraMaster has successfully positioned this device as a bridge between affordability and professional performance, solidifying its place as one of the more balanced NAS releases of 2025.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS
Amazon in Your Region for the Terramaster F4 SSD NAS @ $569 ($489.99 till 19th Nov)	Terramaster F4-425 PLUS – $569	B&H for the Terramaster F4-425 plus NAS @ $569.99

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS PROs

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS CONs

• Dual 5GbE network ports with full independent bandwidth for high-speed transfers + lots of USB-to-5GbE $30 upgrades in the market now • Three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots supporting cache or storage pool configurations • Intel N150 processor with integrated graphics enabling 4K hardware decoding and AES-NI encryption • 16GB DDR5 memory (expandable to 32GB) offering improved bandwidth and multitasking performance • Full-metal chassis with efficient thermals, low noise levels, and minimal vibration • Comprehensive RAID and storage management through TOS 6 with snapshot and HyperLock-WORM protection • Supports Docker, virtual machines, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin natively within TOS 6 • Competitive pricing with strong value relative to Synology and QNAP alternatives

• Cheaper N150 NAS Systems have arrived earlier in 2025 • 5GbE adoption is low, so only larger 10GbE ready groups (via auto-negotiation) will enjoy the benefits of 5GbE • TOS 6 interface and app ecosystem remain less polished than top-tier NAS platforms

 

 

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Bonjour à tous,

J’espère que vous allez bien ! Pour ma part, les jours défilent à une vitesse folle… Il va clairement falloir que je lève un peu le pied (sur mon vrai boulot), sinon je risque de finir en mode surchauffe

Comme vous avez pu le constater, les NAS sont au cœur de toutes les conversations ces dernières semaines… et ce n’est pas fini ! Septembre et octobre ont été particulièrement chargés en annonces, mais d’autres nouveautés sont encore à venir… et du lourd, paraît-il.

Il fut un temps où le trio Synology, QNAP et Asustor dominait sans partage. Mais cette époque semble révolue. Le marché évolue vite et les challengers bousculent sérieusement la hiérarchie. Pour ne pas se faire dépasser (voire avaler) par la nouvelle garde, les leaders historiques vont devoir redoubler d’innovation. Le simple stockage en réseau ne suffit plus. Aujourd’hui, tous les fabricants proposent des solutions polyvalentes, puissantes et ultra-connectées. Prenez Ugreen (au hasard), en un an, ils ont totalement rebattu les cartes avec des NAS complets, performants, dotés d’un OS solide, d’apps bien pensées… et surtout d’un rapport qualité/prix redoutable.

Je n’ai pas vu de films récemment. Côté Séries TV, on m’a conseillé Painkiller sur la crise des opioïdes aux États-Unis. C’est pas mal, mais personnellement (sur le même thème) ma préférence va à Dopesick plus percutante et bien plus prenante à mon goût. J’ai aussi tenté House of Guiness dont les décors sont somptueux, les acteurs assez convaincants… mais honnêtement, je me suis un ennuyé. Je pense m’arrêter à la saison 1. Enfin j’ai terminé Néro, une série française qui démarre sur les chapeaux de roue avant de vite retomber à plat. À voir, mais ce n’est pas la série de l’année.

Je me rends compte que les 3 dernières séries Netflix sont plutôt… moyennes. La qualité sur la plateforme baisse clairement. Il reste bien quelques pépites, mais à ce prix, on est en droit d’en attendre plus. Et vous, quelles sont vos séries du moment ? Vos coups de cœur récents ?

Je vous souhaite une excellente journée.
FX

With Synology ‘Hurt’, Where Is QNAP Right Now?

In the rapidly shifting world of network-attached storage (NAS), QNAP remains one of the most established and technically capable names in the field, yet its place in the market has never felt more uncertain. While Synology has spent much of 2025 dealing with backlash over its increasingly closed-ecosystem strategy—restricting support for third-party drives and limiting upgrade paths—QNAP’s relative quietness has been equally striking. Rather than taking advantage of Synology’s missteps to present itself as the more open and flexible alternative, QNAP has maintained a notably low public profile. This has led many in the community to wonder whether the company is missing a rare opportunity to redefine the market narrative in its favour. Meanwhile, the NAS landscape itself has become more fragmented than ever, with emerging brands such as UGREEN entering the space aggressively, and DIY-friendly systems like ZimaOS, CasaOS, and TrueNAS reshaping what users expect from network storage. In this increasingly complex environment, QNAP’s silence raises an important question: where does the company stand today, and what direction is it heading next?

What Stops QNAP from Achieving Market Dominance?

For much of the last decade, QNAP and Synology were the twin pillars of consumer and SMB NAS. Both set the standards for design, functionality, and software maturity. But while Synology’s restrictive policies have alienated parts of its user base, QNAP has struggled to control the narrative. The company’s openness to third-party hardware remains one of its strongest selling points, yet it has failed to capitalise on that advantage through clear messaging or aggressive marketing. Instead, the brand has allowed the spotlight to drift toward newcomers offering simpler, more modern experiences. Without stronger communication, QNAP risks being seen not as the flexible choice, but as the complicated one. At the same time, the entry-level NAS market is shifting under QNAP’s feet. UGREEN’s arrival has changed expectations by blending appealing industrial design, approachable software, and low price points that attract first-time buyers. Asustor and Terramaster have also expanded their share through steady, incremental improvements that emphasise usability and value over complexity. These competitors are building ecosystems designed for beginners, while QNAP’s traditional focus on advanced workflows can appear intimidating to casual users. For those who simply want a plug-and-play media server or backup appliance, QNAP’s power and depth can feel like overkill.

The DIY and Open-Source Challenge

Beyond traditional competitors, the DIY NAS scene has exploded. Open-source operating systems and flexible, modular hardware are giving enthusiasts and professionals more freedom than ever. Platforms like ZimaOS, CasaOS, and LincStation deliver near-commercial polish at minimal cost, while established heavyweights such as TrueNAS and Unraid continue to dominate the prosumer and homelab segments. Even projects like HexOS, which simplifies TrueNAS for newcomers, show how far the DIY ecosystem has evolved toward user-friendliness. These developments put pressure on QNAP from two directions: on one side, budget newcomers promising simplicity; on the other, flexible open-source solutions offering near-unlimited control. QNAP’s traditional middle-ground position—balancing enterprise-grade features with consumer usability—has never been more difficult to defend.

Where Is the QNAP TS-464 Refresh?

One of the clearest signs of uncertainty around QNAP’s current direction is the lack of a follow-up to the widely praised TS-464 series. Three years after its launch, this model remains one of QNAP’s most balanced and popular NAS systems, yet there has been no formal announcement of a successor. During a recent QNAP partner event in London, attended by distributors and sales partners, several new devices were discussed—such as the USB-to-Dual-10GbE adapter, a 60-bay enterprise expansion chassis, and the QUTS-based AI systems shown earlier at Computex—but no mention was made of a new desktop refresh. What has been confirmed is the upcoming TS-62A series, effectively a value-tier alternative built on the same Intel Celeron N5095 processor found in the TS-464. While this helps QNAP reach a lower price point, it also highlights the absence of real progress in its mainstream lineup. More advanced models, such as the QU504, QU506, and QU508, featuring Intel’s newer Twin Lake N150 and N355 CPUs, have been spotted—but these are confirmed to be China-only releases, likely replacing the “C” series that previously served that region. This means global customers remain without a direct 464 successor in 2025.

The Twin Lake CPUs represent a notable improvement over the Celeron family, offering higher efficiency, DDR5 memory support, and lower power draw, though they are limited to a single memory channel and a maximum of 16GB. Their PCIe layout offers nine Gen3 lanes, potentially allowing QNAP to scale network speeds to 5GbE or even dual-5GbE configurations. However, insiders suggest the company may delay such upgrades until its World Partner Tour later this year, possibly aligning a new desktop rollout with that event. If true, the earliest a genuine TS-464 refresh might appear is early-to-mid-2026, leaving the current model to carry the banner longer than expected. This gap has created visible frustration within the NAS community. While competitors like UGREEN and Minisforum push out new models with 2023–2024 generation CPUs, QNAP continues to rely on hardware first introduced in 2021. The TS-464 remains capable, but QNAP’s silence about its replacement feeds the perception that the brand has slowed its consumer-level innovation cycle.

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QNAP Is Doing More Than People Think

Despite appearances, QNAP has not been idle. At the 2025 Tech Summit in Taipei, the company showcased several major initiatives reinforcing its enterprise and AI ambitions. Highlights included the TVR-AI200 intelligent NVR, high-availability rackmount systems, and updates to QuTS hero, its ZFS-based OS. These developments show that QNAP is not chasing the beginner market but doubling down on performance, scalability, and professional reliability. Its quietness in consumer circles may therefore reflect a strategic pivot toward enterprise and prosumer deployments where its technology already excels. QNAP’s continued support for both QTS (EXT4) and QuTS hero (ZFS) remains one of its key differentiators. Few other vendors offer users this level of choice between consumer simplicity and enterprise-grade data integrity. Meanwhile, hardware flexibility continues to set QNAP apart: PCIe expansion, GPU support for AI and virtualization, 10GbE networking, and hybrid storage pools that combine HDD, SSD, and NVMe tiers. These factors allow QNAP to appeal to serious creators, labs, and businesses seeking more control than a typical turnkey NAS provides.

QNAP’s challenge now is less about technology and more about perception. To regain consumer trust and market visibility, it must simplify its message without diluting its strengths. Its dual-OS ecosystem, PCIe expandability, and AI integration are powerful advantages, but they must be communicated as accessible, not intimidating. Streamlining setup and maintenance could help QNAP reclaim the middle ground between Synology’s walled garden and the raw complexity of TrueNAS or UnRAID. A clearer consumer strategy is also essential. The company has the resources and product depth to compete head-to-head with UGREEN and Asustor, but a quiet marketing approach has allowed newer names to dominate the conversation. Reinforcing its openness to third-party drives, highlighting its unique Thunderbolt and ZFS support, and launching refreshed hardware with current-generation processors would go a long way toward rebuilding enthusiasm among home and prosumer users.

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In Conclusion: Where Is QNAP in 2025?

QNAP stands at a pivotal point. Synology’s restrictive direction has created an opportunity for alternatives to flourish, yet QNAP has not fully seized it. Instead, it has focused on strengthening its enterprise and AI product lines while leaving a gap in its mainstream portfolio—most notably the missing TS-464 refresh. Meanwhile, challenger brands like UGREEN, Minisforum, and Aoostar are gaining traction with faster hardware and more aggressive pricing.

Still, QNAP retains unique advantages. Its dual-OS ecosystem, long-term software support, and deep hardware ecosystem remain unmatched in many respects. The TS-x64, TS-x62, and TVS-hx74 series may be ageing, but their ongoing QuTS hero updates show QNAP’s commitment to support longevity. The key now lies in timing: if QNAP can re-enter the consumer market in 2026 with refreshed Intel Twin Lake or similar platforms—balancing performance, energy efficiency, and modern connectivity—it could reassert itself as the most capable and open NAS brand available.

 

Until then, the silence surrounding its next-generation desktop NAS line speaks volumes. QNAP’s technical foundation remains solid, but in a market that rewards visibility and momentum, even the most capable brand cannot afford to stay quiet for long.

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Asustor déploie actuellement ADM 5.1. Parmi les nouveautés, une technologie attire particulièrement l’attention : le PQC (Post-Quantum Cryptography). Derrière ce terme se cache un renforcement important de la sécurité, conçu pour préparer dès aujourd’hui les systèmes aux attaques des futurs ordinateurs quantiques. Cette évolution s’inscrit dans la stratégie définie par le NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology, États-Unis) pour contrer le risque dit du “harvest now, decrypt later”, c’est-à-dire la collecte de données chiffrées aujourd’hui, dans l’espoir de les déchiffrer plus tard avec des moyens de calcul plus puissants…

ADM 5.1 et PQC-Ready

Avec ADM 5.1, Asustor ajoute le chiffrement TLS 1.3 hybride post-quantique, combinant ML-KEM (Kyber) à un échange de clés classique. L’objectif est de rendre les sessions Web résistantes aux attaques différées, où un attaquant intercepterait le trafic aujourd’hui pour le déchiffrer demain. Cette intégration s’aligne sur la vague de normalisation du NIST (2024-2025) et cible un risque réel : la compromission des données stockées sur les NAS.

PQC-Ready : effet d’annonce ou vraie avancée ?

Ici, le bénéfice est immédiat et transparent. Si le navigateur utilisé prend en charge les suites hybrides, la connexion “quantum-resistant” est négociée automatiquement. L’interface ADM affiche alors le mode actif, permettant de vérifier que la session est bien sécurisée. Pour les transferts via HTTPS ou WebDAV, cette technologie réduit considérablement l’intérêt d’une interception réseau dans le but d’un déchiffrement ultérieur.

Cette mise à jour positionne les NAS Asustor parmi les plus proactifs en matière de sécurité. Elle renforce la protection des accès exposés à Internet, garantit la pérennité de la confidentialité des données et prépare les infrastructures à une transition en douceur vers le chiffrement post-quantique, à mesure que les navigateurs et bibliothèques TLS adoptent ces nouveaux standards. Le message est clair : sécuriser les flux dès aujourd’hui pour éviter les mauvaises surprises demain.

PQC activé par défaut

Il est important de noter que le chiffrement post-quantique est activé par défaut dans ADM 5.1. Aucune configuration particulière n’est requise : la protection s’applique automatiquement, sans intervention de l’utilisateur.

Compatibilité navigateur

Bonne nouvelle : si vous utilisez Chrome (et ses dérivés sous Chromium), Firefox ou Safari dans leurs versions récentes, vous bénéficiez déjà du support nécessaire. La négociation hybride se fera donc automatiquement lors de la connexion à votre NAS Asustor.

Et la concurrence ?

À ce jour, aucun concurrent majeur (Synology, QNAP, Ugreen, TerraMaster) n’a communiqué sur une compatibilité PQC. Cela ne signifie pas qu’ils ne le prennent pas en charge (cela dépend principalement de l’intégration de la bibliothèque TLS utilisée), mais en l’absence d’annonce officielle, il est probable qu’Asustor soit le premier à activer cette technologie par défaut.

En synthèse

Asustor ne se contente pas d’un simple effet d’annonce avec la cryptographie post-quantique (PQC). L’intégration de ML-KEM / Kyber dans un TLS hybride activé par défaut représente une véritable avancée vers des connexions plus sûres et résilientes face aux menaces futures.
Il s’agit d’une évolution cohérente avec le calendrier du NIST, que ce soit dans un contexte professionnel ou domestique.

ASUSTOR vient de mettre à disposition ADM 5.1. Il s’agit d’une mise à jour majeure de son système pour NAS, axée sur la sécurité, la robustesse réseau et la gestion avancée des données.Regardons de plus près cette nouvelle version qui devrait en intéresser plus d’un…

ASUSTOR ADM 5.1

Après ADM 5.0 un peu plus tôt cette année, Asustor nous revient avec ADM 5.1. Le fabricant annonce que cette nouvelle version est compatible avant tout sur les gammes de NAS récentes (AS63, 64, Nimbustor, Drivestor, Lockerstor, Flashstor et dérivés). Cette version consolide la stratégie du fabricant autour de la protection des données et de la pérennité logicielle.

Nouveautés

ADM 5.1 introduit la prise en charge du chiffrement PQC Hybrid TLS, une technologie validée par le NIST américain, combinant cryptographie classique et post-quantique. Une avancée majeure face aux futures menaces informatiques. On parle ici plus dans le détails : Asustor et la sécurité post-quantique (PQC).

Les administrateurs bénéficient désormais de règles de robustesse des mots de passe : longueur minimale, complexité et expiration configurable. Le mécanisme de réinitialisation de mot de passe a également été sécurisé via une authentification obligatoire.

Le pare-feu ADM Defender se voit amélioré : il peut désormais bloquer automatiquement les adresses IP suspectes tentant des connexions via EZ-Connect. Il intègre également un nouveau profil pour restreindre les accès aux conteneurs Docker.

Journal des modifications

Après ces nouveautés, regardons les améliorations qu’Asustor nous a réservé dans ADM 5.1 :

• Gestion avancée du proxy inversé : les applications peuvent définir leur propre port dans le fichier de configuration, utilisé ensuite par ADM pour le serveur proxy HTTP/HTTPS ;
• Amélioration de la gestion des onduleurs réseau (UPS) : il est désormais possible de modifier le nom, l’utilisateur et le mot de passe pour faciliter la connexion à d’autres équipements ;
• Correction des connexions PPPoE : les connexions fonctionnent désormais correctement même lorsque le protocole IPv6 est désactivé ;
• Souplesse accrue du dossier Web : après la désactivation du serveur Web (Apache ou Nginx), le dossier partagé Web peut désormais être déplacé vers un autre volume depuis le module Contrôle d’accès ;
• Compatibilité matérielle étendue : ajout du support de nouvelles cartes réseau PCIe haute performance (Lockerstor 12R Pro Gen2 et Lockerstor 16R Pro Gen2) :
  • Broadcom P2100G (2 × 100 GbE)
  • Intel E810CQDA2 (2 × 100 GbE)
  • Intel E810-XXVDA2 (2 × 25 GbE)
  • Broadcom BCM95719A1904AC (4 × 1 GbE)
• Correction de vulnérabilités XSS : les failles potentielles de type Cross-Site Scripting ont été comblées ;
• Stabilité générale améliorée : nombreuses corrections de bugs dans ADM Defender, Web Center et Contrôle d’accès ;
• Traductions et chaînes multilingues mises à jour pour une interface plus cohérente à l’international.

Divers correctifs supplémentaires renforçant la stabilité et les performances globales du système.

Fin de support pour certaines séries

ASUSTOR confirme également la fin du support fonctionnel pour les séries AS31, AS32, AS40, AS61 et AS62. Ces modèles resteront bel et bien limités à ADM 4.3, avec uniquement des mises à jour de sécurité critiques. Le fabricant n’arrête pas les mises à jour, mais les NAS ne bénéficieront plus des nouveautés. Enfin, les Drivestor et Drivestor Pro perdent définitivement le transcodage matériel… cela semble restreint au puce Realtek. C’est également la fin du support des imprimantes IP USB, suite à la fin du support des pilotes par leurs fournisseurs.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS (and F2-425 PLUS) NAS Coming Soon

The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS (8 GB, priced around US$399) and F4-425 PLUS (16 GB, priced around US$569) represent Terramaster’s latest step forward in its midrange NAS portfolio, arriving near the end of 2025 as a response to the growing competition from brands such as QNAP, Synology, UGREEN, and Asustor. Both models share the same Intel N150 quad-core processor running up to 3.6 GHz, use DDR5 memory, and include multiple M.2 NVMe slots, positioning them well above Terramaster’s previous generation of Celeron-based systems. The F4-425 PLUS is a four-bay platform that expands on the two-bay F2-425 PLUS by offering higher throughput and significantly greater storage flexibility, making it suitable for heavier workloads and multi-user environments. Terramaster appears to have used this release to redefine what can be expected in the $400–$600 NAS tier, especially by including dual 5 GbE network ports, three NVMe SSD slots, and native hardware transcoding for 4K and even 8K content through integrated Intel UHD graphics. Together these systems aim to deliver competitive all-in-one solutions for home and small-office users who require reliable local backup, multimedia streaming, and virtualization support without moving into enterprise-grade pricing.

Note – The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS and F2-425 PLUS NAS have now been launched, and are available to buy HERE for $569 and HERE for $399 (with 15% off as an introductory price till November 21st)

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS & F2-425 PLUS NAS Hardware Specifications

Terramaster’s F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS NAS units share a unified hardware architecture centered on Intel’s N150 processor, part of the Twin Lake family. This 4-core, 4-thread CPU operates at a base clock of 1.0 GHz and boosts up to 3.6 GHz, with integrated Intel UHD graphics that support hardware acceleration for 4K and 8K video decoding. While the N150 is not a high-power processor by desktop standards, it provides excellent balance between performance and efficiency for NAS workloads such as Plex or Jellyfin media streaming, file indexing, and lightweight virtualization. The use of this chip also aligns Terramaster’s lineup with newer offerings from competitors who have adopted similar architectures in their 2025 models.

The memory configuration has moved to DDR5, marking a notable generational shift from the DDR4 modules used in previous Terramaster systems. The F2-425 PLUS includes 8 GB of DDR5, while the F4-425 PLUS doubles this to 16 GB, both expandable up to 32 GB. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth and reduced latency, which benefits multitasking environments, particularly when running Docker containers, multiple user sessions, or AI-driven indexing services such as local photo recognition. This upgrade positions the new PLUS series closer to the performance levels found in more expensive NAS systems while maintaining efficient power draw and thermal output. In terms of storage capacity, the F4-425 PLUS can house up to four 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, while the smaller F2-425 PLUS accommodates two. Both models also integrate three M.2 NVMe slots, allowing up to 8 TB per SSD and enabling users to reach a maximum combined capacity of approximately 144 TB in the four-bay model. Terramaster’s hybrid storage design allows these NVMe drives to serve either as a dedicated storage pool or as cache acceleration for HDD volumes, giving users flexibility to prioritize capacity or performance. The inclusion of three M.2 slots is unusual at this price tier and stands out against most two- and four-bay competitors, which typically provide only two.

For network connectivity, Terramaster has equipped both models with dual 5 GbE ports. This configuration effectively doubles the throughput available in the previous 2.5 GbE generation and can deliver an aggregated bandwidth of up to 10 Gbps through link aggregation. Although the lack of a dedicated 10 GbE port might limit direct single-link transfers, the two 5 GbE ports provide redundancy, failover, and multi-user performance advantages. Both models also include a front-mounted USB-C port and rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A connectors for high-speed external backups and peripheral connections, reflecting a refinement in Terramaster’s chassis design compared with earlier models that relied solely on rear ports.

Cooling and chassis design remain consistent with Terramaster’s recent metal-based enclosures, using active fan ventilation with independent drive bay access. The F4-425 PLUS features dual rear fans to maintain airflow across four bays, while the F2-425 PLUS employs a single high-efficiency unit. The new layout provides improved front-to-rear ventilation and easier access to drive trays. Internally, the systems do not include a PCIe expansion slot, which limits the potential for GPU or high-speed NIC upgrades but simplifies internal lane allocation for the CPU’s nine available PCIe lanes. Terramaster appears to have distributed these lanes between the three M.2 interfaces and dual network controllers to maintain balanced throughput across all functions.

 

How the F4-425 PLUS Compares with QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS425+

The QNAP TS-464 is built around the Intel Celeron N5095, a 4-core, 4-thread processor that can boost up to 2.9 GHz, and ships with 8 GB of DDR4 memory. It supports four SATA bays plus M.2 expansion and includes dual 2.5 GbE ports that can be aggregated for improved bandwidth. QNAP’s system benefits from a mature software ecosystem, offering HDMI output, virtualization support, and extensive backup tools. In performance testing, it delivers sequential speeds around 560 MB/s under RAID 5, limited mainly by network bandwidth. Compared with the F4-425 PLUS, the TS-464 offers stronger software flexibility and PCIe expandability, but its networking hardware is slower and it relies on older memory standards.

The Synology DS425+ takes a more conservative hardware route, using the Intel Celeron J4125 with four cores running at 2.0 GHz base and 2.7 GHz burst. It includes 2 GB of DDR4 memory, expandable to 6 GB, and offers one 2.5 GbE port alongside a 1 GbE port. Two M.2 NVMe slots are available but only for cache acceleration, not full storage pools. Sequential throughput typically reaches about 280 MB/s for reads and writes. Against the F4-425 PLUS, Synology’s system trails in memory, raw processing speed, and throughput potential, but maintains an advantage in software polish and long-term reliability through DSM integration.

In side-by-side terms, the F4-425 PLUS aims for a higher performance envelope. Its dual 5 GbE ports deliver aggregate throughput potential far beyond both the QNAP and Synology options, and its DDR5 memory with three M.2 NVMe slots allows flexible caching or tiered storage setups uncommon at this price tier. The trade-off lies in expandability and software maturity, where QNAP’s platform remains more modular and Synology’s DSM ecosystem offers more stability. For users focused on performance-per-dollar, the F4-425 PLUS introduces hardware that surpasses both competitors on paper, though long-term evaluation will depend on software development under TOS 6.

Terramaster TOS 6 Software

The F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS both ship with TOS 6, Terramaster’s latest operating system that replaces the earlier TOS 5 platform across its new generation of NAS hardware. TOS 6 introduces a redesigned interface with improved responsiveness and a more modular layout intended to reduce latency during multitasking.

It expands Terramaster’s range of built-in applications to include enhanced TRAID and TRAID+ hybrid array configurations, snapshot scheduling, and real-time data synchronization features. Backup utilities such as Duple Backup, Centralized Backup, TerraSync, and CloudSync provide integration across local drives, offsite NAS devices, and major cloud providers. The system also integrates hardware-assisted AES-NI encryption, supporting secure data transmission over 256-bit TLS and optional two-factor authentication. Although its design remains more lightweight than QNAP’s QTS or Synology’s DSM, it is notably faster to load and more accessible to new users.

Beyond core management tools, TOS 6 also incorporates AI-assisted photo management and multimedia indexing designed to run locally rather than relying on external cloud resources. Its facial, object, and scene recognition algorithms operate entirely on the NAS, avoiding external data transfers while maintaining privacy for personal collections. The OS additionally supports Docker and VirtualBox, enabling light virtualization tasks or deployment of third-party services without command-line setup.

Multimedia servers such as Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin can use Intel’s integrated graphics for hardware decoding, improving playback efficiency in 4K and 8K environments. While TOS 6 still trails mature ecosystems in app diversity, it delivers steady progress toward matching more established competitors, particularly for backup, synchronization, and AI-driven photo organization.

Verdict? The New4-Bay NAS Score to Beat?

The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS introduce a considerable upgrade to the company’s mid-tier NAS range, setting new expectations for what users can expect at the $400–$600 level. Both models adopt the Intel N150 processor, DDR5 memory, and dual 5 GbE networking, bringing performance that previously required higher-priced hardware. The F4-425 PLUS, in particular, combines four SATA bays with three M.2 NVMe slots, creating one of the most storage-flexible designs in its category. This configuration makes it a practical option for users who require hybrid pools or tiered caching but prefer to remain within consumer-level power and cost limits. Terramaster’s decision to include high-speed networking and DDR5 support at this price point demonstrates an emphasis on raw throughput and bandwidth efficiency, although it comes at the expense of PCIe expandability. From a broader market perspective, the F4-425 PLUS positions Terramaster competitively against alternatives from QNAP and Synology, trading ecosystem maturity for stronger base hardware. TOS 6 continues to evolve, offering usable AI-based media tools, secure backup systems, and local synchronization features. The platform still lacks some advanced management functions and third-party integrations seen in more established ecosystems, yet it now provides sufficient stability and depth for both professional and enthusiast users. Overall, the F4-425 PLUS presents an incremental but strategically significant advancement in Terramaster’s NAS design philosophy, marking a shift toward higher efficiency and versatility within its compact, consumer-oriented systems.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS – $569 (15% OFF at Launch till 19th Nov)	Terramaster F2-425 PLUS NAS – $399 (15% OFF at Launch till 19th Nov)

 

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WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Disponible depuis quelques mois, le ASUSTOR FS6806X (Flashstor 6 Gen2) est un NAS atypique à bien des égards. Son format compact et son design sobre en font un appareil élégant. Entièrement full-flash, il n’accepte que des SSD au format NVMe. Sous le capot, on retrouve un processeur AMD Ryzen cadencé à 2,3 GHz, accompagné de 8 Go de mémoire DDR5. Côté connectique, il propose deux ports USB4 Type-C, trois ports USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A (dont un en façade) et un port 10 GbE (RJ45). Affiché à 1 129 €, voyons ensemble ce que ce nouveau NAS a réellement dans le ventre…

Test du NAS ASUSTOR FS6806X

Le FS6806X ne s’adresse pas à tous. Il vise clairement les créateurs de contenu, les professionnels et les utilisateurs avancés à la recherche de hautes performances. Sur le papier, le produit semble prometteur. Voyons ce qu’il en est dans la pratique…

Contenu de la boîte

Le packaging comprend :

• Le ASUSTOR FS6806X en lui-même ;
• 1 câble réseau RJ45 Cat.6 ;
• L’alimentation externe et son câble ;
• Un serre câble ;
• Un guide de démarrage rapide ;
• Un livret sur la garantie.

Construction du FS6806X et aspect extérieur

Dès la sortie de la boîte, le format compact du FS6806X surprend. L’appareil mesure 48,3 x 308,26 x 193 mm pour un poids de 1,4 kg à vide. Le boîtier est en plastique noir rigide, avec un effet brossé qui lui confère un aspect plus haut de gamme. C’est un NAS au design singulier et c’est plutôt réussi.

L’installation des SSD demande un peu de patience : l’accès aux six emplacements NVMe se fait par le dessous du boîtier. Il faut retirer quatre vis à l’aide d’un tournevis (non fourni). Heureusement, on ne change pas de SDD tous les jours.

Le NAS dispose de 2 ventilateurs : un pour le processeur (vraisemblablement un 40 mm) et un autre pour les SSD de 80 mm.

Côté connectique, on retrouve :

• 2 ports USB4 Type-C ;
• 3 ports USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A (dont un en façade) ;
• 1 port réseau 10 Gb/s.

À noter : aucune sortie HDMI n’est présente.

Intérieur du FS6806X

L’ASUSTOR FS6806X est animé par un processeur Quad Core AMD Ryzen Embedded V3C14 cadencé à 2,3 GHz (jusqu’à 3,8 GHz en mode burst). Selon PassMark, il obtient un score de 11 882 points, soit plus du double de la moyenne des NAS grand public (environ 5 500 points). En pratique, cela se traduit par une excellente gestion des tâches lourdes : chiffrement, virtualisation et traitement multitâche. Le NAS embarque 8 Go de DDR5 extensibles jusqu’à 64 Go (un vrai plus pour les utilisateurs exigeants).

Emplacements PCI

Le FS6806X dispose de 6 emplacements NVMe, répartis comme suit :

• 1 × PCIe 4.0 x4
• 3 × PCIe 4.0 x2
• 2 × PCIe 4.0 x1

Un emplacement PCIe 4.0 x4 permet d’atteindre environ 8 Go/s de bande passante (idéal pour les SSD haut de gamme).
Les PCIe 4.0 x2 offrent jusqu’à 4 Go/s, ce qui reste suffisant pour la majorité des usages.
Les PCIe 4.0 x1 sont limités à 2 Go/s, adaptés à des SSD de milieu de gamme.

Ce choix d’architecture découle directement des capacités du processeur AMD intégré. Autrement dit, inutile d’investir dans 6* Samsung 990 PRO : ils ne seront pas tous exploités à pleine vitesse. Heureusement, Asustor indique clairement la configuration de chaque slot (voir image ci-dessous).

Heureusement, Asustor indique clairement chacun des emplacements.

ADM

Le NAS est livré avec ADM 5.0, le système d’exploitation maison d’Asustor, basé sur Linux et optimisé pour la gestion de stockage en réseau. L’interface est fluide, claire et offre un vaste écosystème d’applications.

On ne le présente plus, un des meilleurs système du marché.

Performances du FS6806X

Dans la première partie de nos tests, nous allons évaluer les performances des transferts réseau (entre le NAS et des ordinateurs). Ensuite, nous regarderons les capacités du processeur, en analysant ses performances dans la virtualisation et le transcodage vidéo.

Vitesses dans les transferts

Depuis plusieurs années, nous avons mis en place un protocole de tests rigoureux fournissant des données fiables et comparables avec les performances des autres NAS. Pour cela, nous utilisons 4 applications de mesure différentes – 2 sous macOS et 2 sous Windows – et réalisons en plus des transferts de fichiers de tailles variées dans les deux sens (NAS vers Ordinateur puis Ordinateur vers NAS) :

• Petites tailles : 100 fichiers de 500 Ko à 12 Mo (MP3, photos, documents Office)
• Tailles moyennes : 30 fichiers de 12 à 350 Mo (MKV, images RAW, archives ZIP)
• Fichiers volumineux : 10 fichiers avec une taille comprise entre 4 et 10 Go (MKV, ISO)

À partir de ces tests, nous calculons une moyenne des transferts que nous représentons sous forme de graphiques, exprimée en mégaoctets par seconde. Plus le nombre est élevé, plus le NAS est rapide. Pour notre évaluation du FS6806X, nous avons configuré un premier volume avec 1 SSD Samsung 990 Pro et un second avec 3 SSD WD Red SN700 en RAID 5. Nous avons utilisé la prise réseau 10 Gb/s pour nos tests.

Single

Les débits sont en deçà des attentes. Le SSD Samsung 990 Pro est clairement sous-exploité, tout comme la liaison 10 Gb/s. Nous avons parfois dépassé les 1 000 Mo/s ponctuellement (moins souvent qu’escompter), mais sans atteindre les 1 250 Mo/s espérés.

RAID 5

Les performances sont similaires à celles du volume simple (SSD WD Red), à l’exception des écritures de gros fichiers, où une légère baisse se fait sentir. En revanche, nous gagnons en sécurité, continuité de service.

RAID 5 + Crypt

Avec le chiffrement activé, les vitesses d’écriture chutent nettement, plafonnant à environ 300 Mo/s. La lecture, elle, reste relativement stable.

Performances générales

Le FS6806X laisse une impression mitigée. Malgré une architecture solide, ses performances brutes ne sont pas toujours au niveau attendu, surtout face à certains concurrents. Espérons qu’Asustor identifie et corrige rapidement ces limitations via une mise à jour du firmware.

En revanche, le processeur AMD Ryzen fait preuve d’une belle efficacité dans les tâches lourdes : virtualisation et transcodage logiciel. L’absence de GPU intégré impose toutefois de rester attentif aux formats vidéo utilisés. Dans l’ensemble, cela reste une machine performante et robuste.

Consommation électrique et nuisance sonore

Côté bruit, le FS6806X se montre très discret. Les ventilateurs restent quasiment inaudibles, même en charge. Chapeau… Côté consommation électrique, en utilisation normale avec 3 SSD, elle varie entre 12 et 13 W. Lors de transferts intensifs avec chiffrement ou transcodage, elle ne dépasse pas 43,5 W.

UGREEN poursuit sa stratégie de simplification du stockage en réseau avec l’arrivée d’un nouveau NAS : DH2300. Disponible depuis hier, ce nouveau produit est conçu pour rendre la gestion locale des données plus accessibles. Son prix de lancement : 209,99€…

UGREEN DH2300, un NAS pensé pour le grand public

Après un lancement en toute discrétion du DH4300 Plus, UGREEN nous revient avec ce nouveau modèle. Le DH2300 s’adresse aux utilisateurs de disques durs externes ou de services cloud souhaitant reprendre le contrôle de leurs données. Ce modèle à 2 baies supporte jusqu’à 60 To de stockage, permettant d’héberger sans effort des vidéos Ultra HD/4K, photos en haute résolution ou documents professionnels. Il est construit autour d’un processeur huit cœurs ARM Rockchip RK3576 cadencé à 2,2 GHz et épaulé par 4 Go de RAM DDR4 (non extensible).

Connectique

Côté interface de connexion, le DH2300 dispose de :

• 1* port USB 3.0 (Type-C) en façade ;
• 2* port USB 3.0 (Type-A) à l’arrière ;
• 1* sortie HDMI Ultra HD/4K 60Hz ;
• 1 port réseau 1 Gb/s.

Petite déception, nous aurions préféré qu’il embarque directement du 2,5 Gb/s comme le modèle 4 baies. On notera également la présence d’une puce NFC en façade, permettant de simplifier l’accès ou le partage de documents.

Système

Le NAS fonctionne avec UGOS Pro, le système propriétaire de la marque, déjà utilisé sur les autres modèles UGREEN. Ce dernier propose les mêmes applications maison. Le fabricant met en avant une installation guidée en moins de dix minutes et une application mobile tout-en-un (gestion de fichiers, sauvegarde automatique des photos, etc.). Voila qui devrait plaire à ceux qui doute des capacités d’UGREEN.

UGREEN met l’accent sur la sécurité locale : stockage entièrement privé, chiffrement TLS/SSL, RSA et AES, authentification à deux facteurs et certifications TÜV et TRUSTe. Un « Security Manager » serait intégré dont le rôle est d’assurer une surveillance en continu et des analyses programmées contre les menaces.

En synthèse

Avec le NASync DH2300, UGREEN adresse un besoin croissant de disposer d’un espace de stockage personnel, performant et indépendant des grandes plateformes. Avec un tarif de lancement de 209,99€, nul doute que ce produit va trouver son public.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Cloud Subscription Killer

The UGREEN DH2300 is a compact two-bay NAS system positioned within the company’s value-focused lineup, intended for users moving away from cloud-based storage platforms toward affordable private solutions. Priced around the $200 mark, it is aimed at those who prioritize simplicity and convenience over raw performance or enterprise-level control. Designed for users who typically rely on Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox subscriptions, the DH2300 seeks to provide a self-contained alternative with no recurring fees, offering scheduled backups, remote file synchronization, and integrated media access through UGREEN’s proprietary UGOS Pro operating system. Internally, the system is built around an ARM-based processor combining a quad-core Cortex-A72 and quad-core Cortex-A53 architecture, clocked at up to 2.2GHz, with 4GB of LPDDR4 memory and a built-in 32GB eMMC for the OS. This hardware places the DH2300 in direct competition with entry-level models such as the Synology DS223 and QNAP TS-233, though its Rockchip RK3576 processor, G52 MC3 GPU, and 6 TOPS NPU give it a modest edge in AI-assisted photo recognition, multimedia indexing, and energy efficiency. As a compact, preconfigured NAS designed for first-time adopters, the DH2300’s real focus is not to replace professional systems but to bridge the gap between mainstream cloud users and personal storage ownership, reflecting UGREEN’s broader strategy of simplifying NAS technology for general consumers.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The UGREEN DH2300 is a compact, affordable two-bay NAS designed to bridge the gap between cloud storage and local data ownership for everyday users. Built around the Rockchip RK3576 processor—featuring two quad-core clusters of Cortex-A72 and A53 cores at up to 2.2GHz—and paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X memory, the system offers reliable ARM-level performance with efficient thermals and low noise output. Its design prioritizes simplicity, with vertical drive insertion, a single rear cooling fan, and a dedicated 32GB eMMC for UGOS Pro, which separates the OS from user data. Connectivity includes a 1GbE port, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and HDMI 4K60 output, while the software delivers key NAS essentials such as RAID management, snapshot recovery, cloud and USB backups, Docker support, and AI-powered photo indexing via its 6 TOPS NPU. Power consumption remains low at 9–13W depending on workload, and noise levels stay within 31–45 dBA under varying fan speeds. Although the fixed memory, single LAN port, and ambiguous CPU marketing reduce its appeal for enthusiasts, the DH2300 stands out as an efficient, straightforward, and well-priced solution for users seeking a dependable private cloud alternative without technical complexity.

Buy the UGREEN DH300 on Amazon @209	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on UGREEN.COM	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on B&H
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UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Design and Storage

The UGREEN DH2300 adopts a clean, vertical form factor made entirely of plastic, emphasizing practicality and low cost over premium materials. The enclosure is lightweight yet well-ventilated, featuring a magnetic plastic top panel with slotted air channels that promote consistent airflow across both drive bays. The overall construction favors simplicity, with drive access positioned vertically rather than through traditional caddies. This layout helps minimize the unit’s footprint, making it suitable for desktop environments where noise and vibration are key considerations. While the plastic frame lacks the rigidity of aluminum enclosures seen in higher-end NAS models, it contributes to lower noise resonance and reduced amplification of mechanical drive vibration. The minimalist aesthetic, consistent with UGREEN’s other recent NAS releases, reflects its target audience: users seeking a consumer-friendly device that blends into a home office or living space rather than a server rack.

Internally, the DH2300 supports two 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, each connecting directly to fixed SATA connectors mounted on the board. The drive trays are basic but functional, requiring manual screw installation rather than tool-less mechanisms. Although UGREEN has not explicitly advertised hot-swapping as an official feature, testing showed that it is technically possible to replace drives without powering down, though such actions are not recommended without confirmation from official documentation. The NAS supports standard RAID configurations, including JBOD, RAID 0, and RAID 1, as well as individual drive modes, providing adequate flexibility for redundancy or performance-based setups. Storage initialization is straightforward within UGOS, with pool creation and volume setup guided by a wizard interface that fits the product’s “set-and-forget” philosophy.

Cooling is handled by a single rear-mounted fan positioned behind the drive bays, ensuring that heat generated by mechanical disks is efficiently extracted from the enclosure. The system’s vertical drive layout assists in natural convection, drawing air from the lower portion and expelling it from the top and rear. Despite being a plastic chassis, thermal management remains effective due to the extensive side and rear ventilation grilles, which circulate air across both drives and the mainboard components. In long-term use, the design demonstrated stable internal temperatures under typical file access and synchronization loads, maintaining drive and board thermals within an expected operational range even during extended testing periods.

From a functional standpoint, the DH2300 includes an internal 32GB eMMC module reserved for UGOS, preventing users from needing to dedicate part of their main storage array to system files. This separation simplifies setup and improves reliability by isolating the operating system from data drives. However, there are no M.2 or NVMe expansion slots available, meaning caching or SSD-tiered storage cannot be implemented. This is consistent with UGREEN’s entry-level positioning for the model, and the omission helps reduce production cost while keeping the power footprint low. The 32GB internal storage performs adequately for OS updates, indexing data, and temporary system operations.

The device’s storage capacity can reach up to two 30TB drives, allowing a maximum theoretical total of 60TB raw capacity, though most users will likely configure it in RAID 1 for redundancy. This makes the DH2300 a practical fit for home backup, photo archiving, and small-scale media libraries, especially when paired with the system’s built-in applications for photos, video, and document management. Overall, the DH2300’s design and storage layout reflect its goal of balancing ease of use with functional flexibility, providing just enough configurability to support typical home NAS workloads without introducing complexity that would deter less technical users.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Internal and External Hardware

Internally, the UGREEN DH2300 is powered by the Rockchip RK3576 processor, a hybrid 8-core ARM SoC that combines four high-performance Cortex-A72 cores with four efficiency-focused Cortex-A53 cores, running at up to 2.2GHz. While UGREEN markets this configuration as an “8-core processor,” it is technically composed of two separate quad-core clusters, something the company’s documentation does not clearly explain. This lack of clarity can mislead users into expecting a single unified 8-core design, whereas in practice the chip functions as two 4-core groups optimized for different workloads. The RK3576, built on an 8nm process, delivers a solid balance between efficiency and multitasking, keeping thermals low while maintaining adequate throughput for home NAS tasks. Its integrated ARM G52 MC3 GPU supports up to 8K H.265/H.264 decoding and HDR rendering through Rockchip’s dedicated Picture Quality Engine, which also supports ACM and DCI color profiles. These capabilities allow the DH2300 to output 4K60 video via HDMI, offering lightweight media playback directly from the system interface—an uncommon inclusion in this price class. Additionally, the CPU’s built-in 6 TOPS NPU enables AI-assisted indexing and face recognition within UGOS Pro, processing such tasks locally instead of relying on cloud services.

Memory allocation on the DH2300 is fixed at 4GB of LPDDR4X, soldered to the mainboard with no expansion slot available. This restriction aligns with the model’s consumer-grade purpose, though it naturally caps Docker container and multitasking potential. The onboard memory is sufficient for file serving, indexing, and moderate background services, while the 32GB eMMC 5.1 storage is dedicated to UGOS Pro and ensures stable OS operations without user intervention. There are no NVMe or UFS storage options, which simplifies the hardware layout but limits potential caching or high-speed data tiers. Nevertheless, the RK3576’s low power draw and balanced architecture ensure consistent operation under typical workloads, even during prolonged use, with minimal heat output and silent operation under idle conditions.

Externally, the NAS presents a modest selection of connectivity options suitable for its market position. The rear hosts a single 1GbE LAN port—adequate for most home users but a notable downgrade from the 2.5GbE interface found on UGREEN’s larger models like the DH4300 PLUS. File transfers, backups, and streaming functions remain well within the limits of 1GbE for single-user environments, though network saturation can occur during multi-user access. Peripheral connectivity is handled by two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, all operating at 5Gbps, supporting external drives, UPS communication, or backup targets. An HDMI 2.0 port on the rear supports 4K60 output for local playback or display configuration, while system LEDs provide visual feedback for drive activity, system status, and network connection. Power is supplied by a 50W external adapter that connects via a barrel plug, keeping internal temperatures and noise low by externalizing the PSU.

The inclusion of HDMI output in such a budget-focused system underscores UGREEN’s attempt to merge NAS and home entertainment functions. Although the RK3576 chipset supports a wider range of display interfaces—including DisplayPort, MIPI, and eDP—these are not implemented in the DH2300’s design, reflecting deliberate simplification for cost and usability. The absence of multi-gigabit networking, PCIe expansion, or additional LAN redundancy limits its potential for advanced setups, yet for its intended audience the configuration remains practical. In short, the DH2300’s internal layout, despite its simplified design and some ambiguous marketing around the CPU, delivers an efficient and capable platform for mainstream home users seeking affordable private storage.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – UGOS NAS Software and Services

UGREEN’s DH2300 runs the company’s proprietary UGOS Pro, a Linux-based operating system tailored for simplicity and everyday use. The interface mirrors the design language of mainstream consumer cloud platforms, featuring a desktop-style environment with drag-and-drop file management, live system monitoring, and user account controls. Although UGOS Pro shares much of its design and functionality with that found on UGREEN’s larger DH4300 PLUS model, a few service limitations appear due to the ARM-based architecture of the DH2300. These include the absence of virtual machine support and limited resource capacity for multiple Docker containers, stemming from the 4GB of fixed memory. Nonetheless, the software remains fully featured for file storage, synchronization, multimedia management, and light AI applications, and receives regular over-the-air updates that refine usability and security. The desktop and mobile clients also synchronize settings seamlessly, allowing users to manage their NAS both locally and remotely.

From a user management perspective, UGOS provides fine-grained control of accounts, permissions, and network access. Administrators can create user groups, apply password complexity policies, and define shared-folder privileges with ease. The system supports multiple file transfer protocols, including SMB, AFP, NFS, and Rsync, as well as optional WebDAV and FTP for broader compatibility. Remote access can be configured either through UGREEN’s own relay service or via LAN-only mode for tighter network security. The security dashboard consolidates features such as auto-block for repeated failed logins, two-factor authentication, firewall configuration, and selective port access rules. SSH and Telnet access are disabled by default, a responsible design choice for less experienced users, but can be enabled manually for advanced administration. These features bring the DH2300 close in functionality to entry-level NAS systems from Synology or QNAP, even though it remains less configurable overall.

Storage management is one of UGOS Pro’s more mature components. Users can create storage pools and volumes in JBOD, RAID 0, or RAID 1, with scheduled drive tests, SMART diagnostics, and Seagate IronWolf Health integration for supported drives. The storage manager also includes rebuild and repair settings that allow users to prioritise either RAID reconstruction speed or system performance during rebuilds. Snapshot protection is integrated at the folder level, with both versioned and scheduled snapshots available for data recovery. Although the system does not offer full OS-level backups, users can schedule NAS-to-NAS, NAS-to-USB, and NAS-to-Cloud synchronisation tasks using Rsync or proprietary tools. These backups can include filters for file type, size, and modification date, making them adaptable to both personal and small office usage. In practice, the storage controls are intuitive and well-implemented for a first-generation NAS platform, with sufficient safeguards for casual users who might otherwise rely on third-party cloud apps.

Application availability has steadily improved since UGREEN’s NAS debut in 2023 (at least, in the ‘west’, as they have been a NAS name in the east since 2020/2021). The App Center now includes a range of first-party utilities such as a file manager, photo station, video station, and music library, as well as third-party options like Plex, Jellyfin, and Docker containers. AI-based features such as face, text, and object recognition are supported thanks to the 6 TOPS NPU in the RK3576, though performance varies depending on workload size. The integrated Vault app provides encrypted storage areas secured by password or downloadable key, which can be auto-locked on reboot for privacy. Meanwhile, the mobile companion app mirrors almost every desktop function, from user and storage administration to Docker control and media playback. Having all management tasks accessible within a single unified mobile app, rather than separate applications for photos or video, demonstrates UGREEN’s streamlined approach to usability, positioning UGOS Pro as a consumer-friendly OS that hides most of the NAS complexity from first-time users. However, I cannot stress enough that this software is still a decent way behind long-established players such as Synology DSM and QNAP QTS in terms of features, maturity and client support. Additionally, as one of the newest names in the world of NAS, the brand has yet to be truly ‘tested’ when it comes to security strength and how they handle/respond to a larger scale security incident. So wheat we find here is good enough for hte price point, but is only a small step or two above what users have come to expect from privately owned NAS nonetheless in 2025/2026.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Heat, Noise and Power Consumption Tests

Thermal and acoustic performance on the UGREEN DH2300 is generally stable and consistent with expectations for a low-power ARM-based NAS. The system uses a single rear-mounted fan that automatically adjusts its RPM in response to internal temperature sensors, aided by the ventilated top and side panels. During extended operation, the fan demonstrated smooth, gradual speed transitions rather than abrupt cycling, which helped minimize background noise. With two 4TB Seagate IronWolf drives installed, the system recorded approximately 31–32 dBA in idle mode with the fan set to “Low” in UGOS. When switched to “Auto,” and under light file activity, readings rose to 33–35 dBA, while heavier read and write operations increased noise levels to 38–41 dBA. Under maximum fan speed, levels peaked at 44–45 dBA, making the fan audible but still within acceptable limits for a desktop environment. The use of plastic housing reduces the resonance that typically amplifies drive vibration in metal enclosures, although some low-frequency hum remains during heavy disk access.

Temperature readings taken over a 24-hour mixed-use test period show that the chassis maintains good internal thermal balance, aided by vertical airflow and efficient low-wattage components. The NAS was powered down overnight before the test, then reactivated for hourly upload and backup tasks, simulating intermittent real-world usage. During idle periods, the drives stabilized at 35–37°C, while moderate access cycles pushed them to 42°C. The motherboard and surrounding airflow remained at approximately 34–35°C, with rear exhaust temperatures registering slightly higher. Despite the passive nature of some cooling zones, heat accumulation around the CPU remained minimal, peaking around 50–60°C during sustained transfer activity. These figures suggest that UGREEN’s internal airflow design, while basic, is sufficient for continuous operation with standard HDDs. Users in warmer climates or those employing higher-RPM drives might consider increasing fan control sensitivity via UGOS to maintain consistent thermals.

Power consumption results were equally conservative. With two 4TB mechanical drives installed and the system idle at below 5% CPU utilization, the DH2300 drew roughly 9.5W, a competitive figure for a two-bay NAS. During typical data transfers and 50% CPU load, draw increased modestly to 12–13W, remaining far below that of comparable x86-based systems. The external 50W power adapter ensures the NAS operates efficiently while reducing internal heat buildup. Users employing SSDs instead of HDDs could expect overall consumption to drop by an additional 4–5W, further improving energy efficiency. These results confirm the DH2300’s suitability for continuous operation, including 24/7 use as a network backup target or low-impact media server.

Its minimal noise and low thermal footprint make it a non-intrusive addition to a home or small office environment, aligning with its purpose as a budget, always-on NAS solution.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The UGREEN DH2300 represents a carefully positioned step in the company’s ongoing effort to make private storage approachable for non-technical users. Its hardware configuration, led by the Rockchip RK3576 processor and 4GB of fixed memory, provides solid baseline performance for a two-bay ARM-powered NAS at this price point. Although its single 1GbE network port may limit throughput for larger file transfers, the system compensates with a highly efficient power profile, quiet operation, and full support for common RAID configurations. The inclusion of a dedicated 32GB eMMC system drive, HDMI 4K60 output, and an NPU capable of AI-based photo indexing places it above most similarly priced entry-level alternatives from QNAP and Synology. However, certain aspects of UGREEN’s marketing—particularly the way the dual quad-core CPU clusters are presented as a single 8-core design—could be clearer. Likewise, the absence of upgradeable memory or faster networking options limits its long-term scalability for users seeking to expand their NAS environment beyond basic media and backup tasks.

From a broader standpoint, the DH2300’s strongest appeal lies in its simplicity and low operational overhead. UGOS Pro, though still developing in maturity, has evolved into a competent, user-friendly platform offering the key features needed for home data management, multimedia access, and scheduled backups. The OS’s stability, combined with efficient hardware and lightweight design, makes this NAS a practical alternative to annual cloud subscriptions for users who simply want local control over their data. It is not a system aimed at enthusiasts or professionals demanding virtual machines, multi-gig networking, or broad third-party OS support, but rather those seeking a self-contained, reliable, and low-maintenance device. Within that niche, the DH2300 delivers strong value and performs consistently well for the intended demographic—serving as an accessible first step into local storage ownership.

 

Buy the UGREEN DH300 on Amazon @209	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on UGREEN.COM	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on B&H
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PROs of the UGREEN DH2300 NAS

CONs of the UGREEN DH2300 NAS

Efficient Rockchip RK3576 processor (dual quad-core ARM design) provides strong performance for a low-power NAS. Integrated 6 TOPS NPU enables local AI functions such as face, text, and object recognition without cloud reliance. UGOS Pro offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface with features like RAID management, snapshots, Docker, and backups. Low noise output (31–45 dBA) and excellent power efficiency (9–13W typical use) suit 24/7 home operation. Dedicated 32GB eMMC system drive keeps the OS separate from data volumes for better reliability. HDMI 2.0 4K60 output allows direct media playback and display management. Competitive pricing around $200 makes it a strong entry-level NAS alternative to subscription cloud storage.

Single 1GbE LAN port limits transfer speeds and network scalability. Fixed 4GB memory restricts heavy multitasking or Docker use. Spending just $100-150 more gets you much, much more capable x86 powered systems

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Un dicton dit : « Il faut du temps pour bâtir la confiance, un instant pour la détruire ». Synology en fait aujourd’hui l’expérience. Le célèbre fabricant de NAS traverse une période compliquée, marquée par des choix stratégiques qui divisent sa communauté. Parviendra-t-il à regagner la confiance des utilisateurs ? Rien n’est moins sûr…

Des décisions qui fragilisent la fidélité des utilisateurs

Ces derniers mois, Synology a pris plusieurs décisions qui ont surpris et parfois frustré ses utilisateurs :

• Arrêt d’applications populaires : Video Station a été supprimée et le transcodage a été retiré de toutes les autres applications du fabricant ;
• Retrait de fonctionnalités clés : le transcodage matériel sur les derniers modèles de NAS a été vérouillé, limitant les performances pour le streaming de contenus haute définition… ou encore les données SMART pourtant précieuses pour nos disques ;
• Compatibilité restreinte des disques : une certification obligatoire pour les modèles DSx25 rend le choix des utilisateurs plus complexe.

N’oublions pas un choix particulièrement entêté : Synology a décidé de maintenir (jusqu’en 2025) sa stratégie consistant à ne proposer que des connexions réseau 1 Gb/s sur ses la grand majorité des NAS, malgré les critiques et l’évolution des besoins du marché.

Le constructeur est revenu sur certaines de ces restrictions (disques durs et réseau Multi-Gig), mais la confiance des utilisateurs a été profondément ébranlée. Ces décisions cumulées illustrent combien il est fragile de maintenir une relation de confiance dans un secteur où les choix techniques et stratégiques sont scrutés de près.

Une perte de parts de marché sur le segment particulier

Autrefois leader incontesté sur le marché des particuliers, Synology voit désormais sa position remise en cause. Les données de ventes sur des plateformes comme Amazon ou LDLC montrent clairement que la marque n’est plus systématiquement en tête. Ce segment, longtemps considéré comme sa vache à lait*, a été le moteur de sa notoriété et de ses millions d’unités vendues.

Des concurrents comme TerraMaster, le jeune UGREEN, ou encore QNAP et Asustor captent désormais l’attention des utilisateurs particuliers et des entreprises, profitant des hésitations de Synology pour proposer des alternatives performantes et souvent plus accessibles.

Les conséquences pour Synology et ses utilisateurs

Cette situation illustre un paradoxe : la popularité de Synology, construite sur des années de fiabilité et d’innovation, peut s’éroder rapidement dès lors que la marque prend des décisions impopulaires. Les utilisateurs (autrefois fidèles) se tournent désormais vers des alternatives offrant un meilleur rapport fonctionnalités/prix et une compatibilité plus ouverte.

Pour Synology, la leçon est claire : la confiance des utilisateurs ne se reconstruit pas en un jour. La marque doit réévaluer sa stratégie produit et son approche commerciale pour retrouver son leadership, sous peine de perdre durablement des parts de marché dans un secteur où la concurrence s’intensifie.

* Le terme « vache à lait » est une expression employée en marketing

The UniFi UPS-Tower 600W UPS Review

UPDATE – The Desktop UPS TOWER is available HERE for $159 , and the 2U Rackmount UPS-2U is available later in Q4 2025 HERE for $279

UniFi’s entry into the uninterruptible power supply market brings two distinct solutions tailored for professional and prosumer environments: the UPS-Tower desktop model and the UPS-2U Rackmount unit. The tower configuration provides 1,000VA / 600W of backup capacity and uses a single 12V, 9Ah lead-acid battery, while the larger 2U rackmount version scales up to 1,440VA / 1,000W with dual battery modules. Both adopt a line-interactive architecture with simulated sine wave output, a 6–10 ms transfer time, and Ethernet-based network management. Integration is handled natively within UniFi Network, where users can adopt, monitor, and configure the UPS directly from the UniFi Controller interface. For non-UniFi deployments, both models retain NUT (Network UPS Tools) compatibility for safe shutdown and system monitoring. This marks a significant expansion of UniFi’s ecosystem into power management and continuity—areas traditionally dominated by brands like APC and CyberPower—positioning UniFi’s UPS line as a bridge between smart network infrastructure and automated power protection.

The UniFi UPS-Tower 1000VA / 600W Review – Quick Conclusion

The UniFi UPS-Tower and UPS-2U deliver practical and ecosystem-focused power protection for small network environments. Both models emphasize integration and manageability rather than raw performance, providing stable 120V line-interactive backup power with simulated sine wave output. The tower model offers 600W of protection in a compact desktop enclosure, while the rackmount unit increases capacity to 1,000W with dual batteries. Integration through the UniFi Network Controller is straightforward, enabling central monitoring and alerting without external software. While limitations such as the lack of USB ports, PoE passthrough, and pure sine wave output restrict versatility outside the UniFi ecosystem, both units are solid entries for users seeking consistent, centrally managed backup power within UniFi-managed infrastructures.

The UniFi UPS-Tower UPS Review – Design & Connectivity

The UniFi UPS-Tower adopts a vertically oriented, compact chassis that measures 288 x 99 x 280.5 mm and weighs just over 8 kg. Its enclosure is built from a polycarbonate and ABS blend, which offers a balance between durability and low weight, and the overall shape resembles a small desktop speaker or heater.

The unit’s IP20 rating indicates it is intended for indoor use only, with ventilation panels positioned at the top, sides, and bottom to maintain airflow. During testing, internal temperatures averaged around 45–47°C after 24 hours of continuous operation, demonstrating stable thermal management for a unit of this density. The design is understated, with no LCD screen or physical display, relying instead on LED indicators and the UniFi interface for monitoring battery level and status.

In terms of connectivity, UniFi has implemented a clear division between power protection and control interfaces. On the rear panel, the UPS-Tower provides five surge-only outlets and five battery-backed surge-protected outlets, all of which are NEMA 5-15R ports suitable for 120V environments. The input connection uses a NEMA 5-15P plug, rated for 12A maximum load, supporting both 50 and 60 Hz operation. While this configuration is typical of compact line-interactive UPS units, the number of protected outlets is unusually high for its size, making it suitable for powering multiple small network devices, NAS units, or edge appliances simultaneously. However, only the five battery-backed ports will remain operational during a power loss.

UniFi has also included Ethernet management for remote monitoring and control. The rear I/O layout features a 100/10 MbE network connection that links the UPS directly into the UniFi ecosystem, as well as two GbE ports for surge in/out, allowing for protection of wired data paths. This implementation enables the UPS to send automatic notifications and power-state updates to the UniFi controller, ensuring that connected devices can safely power down when mains supply is interrupted. While users will not find USB connectivity here—a feature absent from both models—Ethernet management ensures seamless network-level integration with UniFi OS devices and provides remote monitoring capabilities not typically available in basic desktop UPS designs.

On the visual and operational interface side, UniFi relies on a multi-stage LED system to communicate battery and status information. A ring of LEDs on the front panel indicates power state, network connectivity, and battery percentage, with specific color patterns representing states such as initialization, adoption, or firmware upgrades. For example, a steady blue LED denotes normal operation, while flashing red signals a low battery, and alternating white/blue indicates firmware updating. This LED-centric approach aligns with UniFi’s existing product language and keeps the design minimalistic while relying on software integration for detailed telemetry.

Physically, the UPS-Tower fits neatly into a small office or studio environment, blending alongside UniFi routers or switches without dominating desk space. It operates quietly, with only a faint hum from the internal fan during battery mode. The 2U rackmount model, by contrast, uses a galvanized steel enclosure with front ventilation and nearly double the weight at 14 kg, prioritizing durability for data racks and wiring cabinets.

Both maintain an IP20 protection rating, ensuring basic safety against accidental contact but not dust or moisture resistance. Overall, UniFi’s approach emphasizes modularity, network integration, and compactness over display-driven functionality, positioning these UPS units as discreet but essential components within managed network setups.

The UniFi UPS-Tower UPS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the UniFi UPS-Tower follows a line-interactive architecture, combining voltage regulation with battery backup to ensure smooth transitions during power interruptions. The system utilizes an automatic voltage regulation (AVR) circuit that adjusts minor fluctuations in mains voltage without switching to battery mode, minimizing wear on the internal power cells. In the event of an outage or severe voltage dip, the UPS switches to battery operation within 6 to 10 milliseconds, maintaining output stability at 120V AC with a ±10% regulation margin. The waveform produced in battery mode is a simulated sine wave, which is adequate for most networking gear and consumer electronics, though not ideal for high-sensitivity audio, medical, or laboratory equipment. Power delivery remains consistent throughout short outages, allowing network hardware, NAS units, and servers to complete safe shutdown procedures.

The UPS-Tower contains a single 12V, 9Ah sealed lead-acid battery, user-removable via a bottom access panel. This design makes future maintenance straightforward, allowing owners to replace the battery when its capacity diminishes after several years of use. At full load (600W), the runtime averages around 2 minutes, while at half load, it extends to approximately 7 minutes before automatic shutdown. Recharge time to 90% capacity is listed at 6 to 8 hours. Thermal performance under sustained use is stable, and the inclusion of passive and active ventilation ensures no overheating under normal operating conditions. The system is also protected against short circuits, overloads, and over-voltage faults, automatically tripping into fault mode if thresholds of 110% to 120% load are exceeded.

Comparatively, the UPS-2U Rackmount uses a dual-battery setup with two 12V, 9Ah lead-acid modules to achieve 1,440VA / 1,000W output capacity. It shares the same waveform and transfer time but provides slightly extended runtime—2.3 minutes at full load and 8 minutes at half load—thanks to the added battery reserve. It also benefits from a galvanized steel chassis that enhances durability and is better suited for professional rack environments. Both systems are NDAA-compliant and certified under FCC, IC, UL 1778, and CSA C22.2 No. 107.3, ensuring safety and performance standards for commercial and residential use. In both models, system management and network telemetry are handled by a dedicated network controller chip, enabling UniFi OS integration and data synchronization with other UniFi devices.

The UniFi UPS-Tower UPS Review – Functionality

The UniFi UPS series is built around simplicity and ecosystem-level integration rather than feature-heavy configuration. Both the UPS-Tower and UPS-2U connect directly to the UniFi Network controller via Ethernet, where they appear alongside other UniFi devices for adoption. Once added, users can view real-time battery percentage, load level, input/output voltage, and system temperature directly from the UniFi interface. The units are also capable of sending power event notifications when mains power fails or returns, ensuring administrators receive alerts through the existing UniFi management system without relying on third-party monitoring software. This network-level approach allows the UPS to act as both a power backup and an automated coordination point for controlled shutdowns across UniFi infrastructure, such as Dream Machines, switches, or NAS units.

Integration with non-UniFi devices is handled through Network UPS Tools (NUT) compatibility. This makes the UPS-Tower particularly flexible in mixed environments where NAS devices or servers from other vendors, such as Synology or QNAP, require graceful shutdown when the UPS switches to battery mode. Users can define credentials and associate the UPS with NUT clients on the same network to relay status and trigger automated shutdowns once the battery reaches a predefined threshold. Although the review highlighted the lack of USB connectivity, which restricts plug-and-play use with devices expecting a traditional USB UPS handshake, the Ethernet management layer compensates by offering wider network-based communication. However, features such as per-device runtime configuration or selective port control are not yet implemented, leaving shutdown scheduling dependent on firmware updates or future model revisions.

The control and monitoring interface remains minimalistic, relying heavily on UniFi’s centralized GUI rather than onboard interaction. LEDs on the chassis provide a clear visual indication of status—covering power mode, adoption state, and battery level—but all deeper telemetry must be accessed through UniFi Network. Once paired, users can also configure email or push notifications for voltage irregularities, battery health alerts, and firmware updates. It is important to note that the current firmware does not support pure sine wave operation or lithium-ion battery upgrades, though UniFi has stated that future models will expand the portfolio to include these higher-end options. In its present form, the UPS-Tower and UPS-2U focus on stability, ease of deployment, and unified management within a single software environment, making them efficient for UniFi users seeking automation without added complexity.

The UniFi UPS-Tower UPS Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The UniFi UPS-Tower and UPS-2U represent the brand’s first foray into managed backup power systems, designed primarily to extend the reliability and consistency of the broader UniFi ecosystem. Both units share the same line-interactive architecture, simulated sine wave output, and Ethernet-based monitoring, offering a predictable and easily managed experience for users already invested in UniFi infrastructure. Their minimalist design, compact footprint, and seamless adoption through the UniFi Network Controller make them suitable for environments where simplicity, remote monitoring, and integration outweigh the need for advanced runtime management or pure sine wave output. For most small network or NAS setups, either model will provide adequate protection during short outages and brownouts, while ensuring systems are safely powered down when battery capacity is depleted.

However, their appeal remains closely tied to the UniFi ecosystem. The absence of USB connectivity, PoE passthrough, and lithium-ion battery options limits their usefulness in heterogeneous or high-performance environments. Users seeking pure sine wave support, longer runtimes, or advanced per-device control will likely need to wait for the next generation of UniFi UPS models, which the company has already suggested will expand to include these options. As they stand, the UPS-Tower and UPS-2U are well-built, tightly integrated, and cost-effective for UniFi users, but less compelling for those operating outside that ecosystem. They function precisely as intended: reliable, network-aware power backups for UniFi-managed systems, providing foundational stability rather than feature innovation.

UniFi UPS-Tower PROS

UniFi UPS-Tower CONS

Seamless integration with UniFi Network Controller for centralized management Compact and minimalistic design with low noise and stable thermal performance Ethernet-based control and monitoring eliminate the need for USB connectivity NUT compatibility enables basic third-party system integration User-replaceable lead-acid battery for extended product lifespan Competitive pricing relative to similar managed UPS devices Reliable short-term backup and safe shutdown coordination for UniFi devices

No USB port for direct communication with standalone servers or NAS systems Simulated sine wave output limits use with sensitive equipment Lacks PoE passthrough and per-device power control options

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Runtipi est une solution open source permettant de simplifier la gestion d’applications auto-hébergées. Idéale pour monter un homelab sur un Mini-PC, Raspberry Pi ou un NAS, la plate-forme permet de déployer des services sans passer des heures à configurer Docker manuellement. Découvrons ensemble RunTipi…

Runtipi : centralisation & automatisation

Runtipi centralise l’installation, les mises à jour et la sauvegarde de près de 300 applications via une interface Web intuitive. Que vous souhaitiez monter un environnement multimédia ou de productivité, tout se fait en quelques clics, sans écrire de fichiers Compose complexes. Chaque application tourne dans un conteneur isolé derrière un reverse proxy Traefik géré automatiquement, avec des sauvegardes et restaurations guidées pour limiter les risques de perte de données.

La compatibilité avec la plupart des distributions Linux en fait une solution flexible pour un Mini-PC, un Raspberry Pi ou encore une VM légère sur un NAS. Pour les usages multimédias (Jellyfin, Sonarr/Radar) avec quelques utilitaires (AdGuard Home, Authentik, Vaultwarden) il est recommandé d’avoir un processeur Quad Core et 8 à 16 Go de RAM pour un fonctionnement fluide au quotidien. Avec un Raspberry Pi, il faudra donc rester attentif aux performances…

Fonctionnalités clés

RunTipi va simplifier l’installation et l’utilisation au quotidien des outils avec :

• Catalogue d’applications : environ 300 applications disponibles, allant de l’archivage web aux serveurs multimédias, en passant par les outils IA, l’automatisation et la sécurité ;
• Tableau de bord moderne : surveillez le statut du système, installez et configurez vos applications, effectuez des sauvegardes et mises à jour, le tout depuis une interface Web unique ;
• Sécurité par conception : chaque service est isolé dans son conteneur et géré via Traefik…

Installation et première mise en route

Le guide officiel explique comment préparer un serveur Linux minimal sécurisé, lancer l’initialisation de Runtipi et accéder au tableau de bord, sans connaissances approfondies en ligne de commande. En pratique, l’installation se résume à exécuter un script officiel sur une distribution type Debian/Ubuntu pré-installée, puis à terminer la configuration via l’interface web.

Voici la commande à taper pour installer RunTipi : curl -L https://setup.runtipi.io | bash

Déployer et personnaliser des applications

Une fois Runtipi installé, l’App Store permet d’installer vos applications en un clic. Les champs de configuration guidés facilitent la mise en route et les mises à jour se font en un seul clic. Bien sûr, les utilisateurs avancés peuvent personnaliser le compose via un fichier tipi-compose.yml dans user-config pour exposer le tableau de bord Traefik ou ajuster des ports, sans modifier le compose de base régénérée à chaque redémarrage.

En synthèse

Runtipi constitue une base solide pour construire un homelab fiable et facile pour un Mini PC et/ou avec un NAS. Son catalogue riche, ses mises à jour en un clic, ses sauvegardes intégrées et ses fonctionnalités avancées en font une solution complète. Pour démarrer sereinement, on vous recommande de suivre le guide officiel afin d’installer vos premières applications, puis affiner la personnalisation via user-config et Traefik selon vos besoins.

Sachez qu’il est tout à fait possible de tester RunTipi : demo.runtipi.io avec l’identifiant [email protected] et le mode de passe password.

Should You Upgrade Your Synology from DSM 7.2 to DSM 7.3?

DSM 7.3 represents Synology’s final major release under the DSM 7 platform before the expected transition to DSM 8, and it introduces a mix of refinements, policy reversals, and new enterprise tools that signal both the maturity and the approaching end of this software generation. The update arrives after an extended rollout period that began in mid-2025 and has been deployed gradually across supported NAS models to ensure stability. It brings several notable changes, most prominently the revision of the company’s restrictive hard drive policy under the new HCL 5.0 standard, allowing a broader range of third-party drives on 2025 Plus series systems. Other additions include the Synology Tiering package, designed to automate storage management between multiple NAS devices, and the introduction of the AI Console, a framework that integrates external AI and LLM providers into Synology’s productivity applications. Alongside these new components, DSM 7.3 also adds incremental updates such as native exFAT support, more flexible encryption handling, improved domain and directory management, and several kernel-level security patches.

However, for most existing users running DSM 7.2, the decision to upgrade should not be automatic. Many of the most visible features in DSM 7.3, including Synology Drive 4.0 and early versions of Synology Tiering, can already be accessed through separate beta packages on DSM 7.2 without performing a full system upgrade. Moreover, DSM 7.3 has arrived without a public beta phase, leading to mixed community feedback on compatibility issues and minor application regressions reported during early adoption. The release is stable for general use, but it represents an incremental refinement rather than a fundamental reinvention of Synology’s operating environment. For many users, DSM 7.3 serves as both a capstone for the current platform and a preparatory step toward the next-generation DSM 8 ecosystem expected to follow in 2026.

Should You Upgrade to Synology DSM 7.3? The TL;DR

For most existing Synology users, DSM 7.3 is a cautious, incremental update rather than a transformative one. It refines several areas—particularly in data security via vulnerability patches, encrypted storage handling, and drive compatibility—but few of these changes are critical for stable systems already running DSM 7.2. The improved drive policy on 2025 Plus models is a welcome reversal of the restrictive compatibility introduced earlier, yet older systems benefit little beyond quality-of-life improvements. Similarly, the new Synology Tiering and AI Console frameworks show potential but are limited in scope, requiring multi-system deployments or external AI integrations that do not suit typical home or small business users. In short, DSM 7.3 is reliable and functionally solid, but it introduces no must-have feature for those already content with DSM 7.2. Users with newer 2025 Plus series hardware, or those who need to take advantage of the new tiering, encryption, or administrative tools, can confidently upgrade once their model is supported. However, administrators running mission-critical workloads, media servers, or older legacy devices may prefer to wait until early 2026 for further stability updates or the initial DSM 8 previews. The release feels transitional—a final, polished step for the DSM 7 generation rather than a defining milestone—so unless your deployment directly benefits from one of its headline features, remaining on DSM 7.2 remains a perfectly reasonable choice.

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Will Upgrading to DSM 7.3 Remove My Ability to Hardware Transcode?

Upgrading to DSM 7.3 does not remove hardware transcoding support on systems that already possess compatible integrated graphics or dedicated GPU functionality. The removal of hardware transcoding drivers occurred earlier, during the rollout of DSM 7.2.2, and affected only specific 2025-generation NAS models where Synology chose to disable HEVC (H.265) hardware acceleration for licensing and driver maintenance reasons. For all older devices—such as the DS920+, DS423+, and DS224+—the upgrade to DSM 7.3 preserves existing transcoding capabilities, including both H.264 and H.265 conversions, assuming these were functional in DSM 7.2. Users can continue to use hardware-assisted video conversion in applications such as Synology Video Station (if you still have it!), Plex, and Jellyfin without additional configuration. No drivers are removed or replaced by the DSM 7.3 upgrade process, and GPU-accelerated workloads remain fully accessible. The only cautionary point applies to future NAS models that will ship with DSM 7.3 preinstalled, as these may already reflect Synology’s newer driver policy, but existing systems upgrading from DSM 7.2 retain their transcoding performance entirely unchanged. Just remember that Synology 2025 series devices that have an integrated graphics CPU do NOT have the graphics driver by default. Watch the video below to learn more:

Will Upgrading to DSM 7.3 Result in My M.2 SSDs Becoming Unsupported or Unusable?

For most users, upgrading to DSM 7.3 will not cause any change to M.2 SSD functionality. Systems that already have existing cache or storage configurations using M.2 NVMe drives in DSM 7.2 will continue to operate normally after the upgrade, with no data loss or drive disconnection. The update does not remove support for previously installed third-party NVMe SSDs, nor does it alter existing caching or volume structures.

However, DSM 7.3 maintains Synology’s restrictive stance on creating new NVMe-based storage pools (i.e only their own bradned drives currently) or caches using unverified drives. While the broader HCL 5.0 policy restores open drive usage for SATA HDDs and SSDs on the 2025 Plus series, it does not extend to M.2 NVMe media, which still require official validation to be initialised in new roles. Users upgrading from DSM 7.2 who already have third-party M.2 drives configured will see no functional difference, but those attempting to add or reassign new NVMe devices after the upgrade will remain subject to the same compatibility enforcement introduced in DSM 7.2.

Is Synology Drive 4.0 Worth Upgrading to DSM 7.3 For?

Synology Drive 4.0 introduces a collection of small but practical improvements that enhance team collaboration and file management, but none of these changes require DSM 7.3 to function. The new version adds improved file labelling and categorisation tools, making it easier for teams to assign colour-coded or custom tags to shared content.

It also refines file request functionality, allowing users to specify reasons for requesting access and to track these submissions more transparently. File locking has also been expanded, now supporting manual control in addition to automatic version locking, which prevents conflicts when multiple users are editing the same document.

Together, these updates improve workflow precision and traceability, particularly in shared office environments or remote teams using Drive as a private alternative to cloud collaboration platforms such as OneDrive or Google Drive.

Beyond these refinements, Synology Drive 4.0 also brings stronger integration with Synology Account authentication, a requirement for accessing its newest collaborative features. This includes cross-user label sharing, improved audit tracking, and the option to enforce identity binding for Drive users in larger deployments.

However, all of these capabilities remain accessible to DSM 7.2 users via Synology’s beta package program, meaning there is no requirement to upgrade to DSM 7.3 to test or use them. Unless you specifically need tighter Drive account linkage or plan to adopt other DSM 7.3-only features such as Tiering or AI Console integration, the Drive 4.0 update alone does not justify upgrading your NAS operating system.

Is Synology Tiering Worth Upgrading to DSM 7.3 For?

Synology Tiering is one of the most significant new features in DSM 7.3, introducing an automated data management system designed to move infrequently accessed files from fast “hot” storage to lower-cost “cold” storage across multiple NAS devices. The concept is similar to hierarchical storage management in enterprise systems, but unlike QNAP’s QTier, it does not operate within a single NAS.

Instead, it requires two or more Synology NAS units running DSM 7.3, with the hot tier hosting the primary, frequently used data, and the cold tier configured as a secondary vault where less active files are migrated. Administrators can create tiering plans that determine how long a file remains in the hot tier based on modification or access frequency, with policies ranging from one day to several years. Transfers occur automatically over encrypted HTTPS connections, and stub files are left behind in the hot tier to preserve accessibility, allowing users to recall files seamlessly when needed.

However, despite its potential, Synology Tiering remains a beta-stage feature with limited configuration depth and hardware support. Not all NAS systems qualify for hot-tier deployment, and the supported model lists are inconsistent. For example, the DS425+—a system without M.2 slots—supports hot-tier operation, whereas the DS923+, which features greater performance and expandability, does not. Likewise, several older Plus-series models and most rackmount units are limited to cold-tier functionality only.

The service currently lacks integration with Synology Drive, encrypted folders, or other key DSM services, meaning many shared folders cannot participate in tiering policies. While the feature offers promise for businesses managing distributed sites or large archives, it is still early in development and unsuitable as the sole reason to perform a DSM 7.3 upgrade. It can also be tested independently on DSM 7.2 via the beta package, allowing administrators to evaluate its practicality before committing to a full system migration.

It is worth noting that Synology’s allocation of which NAS systems qualify as hot-tier and cold-tier devices under DSM 7.3 results in some unusual distinctions between models. Several systems with similar or even higher technical specifications are listed only as cold-tier devices, while others with more modest hardware are fully approved for hot-tier functionality.

For example, the Intel Celeron-based DS225+, which supports only SATA HDDs and lacks M.2 NVMe or 10GbE connectivity, is officially designated as a hot-tier system. In contrast, the AMD Ryzen R1600-based DS923+, which includes dual M.2 NVMe slots and 10GbE upgradability, appears only on the cold-tier list.

This creates a noticeable mismatch between capability and feature assignment across both desktop and rackmount systems, suggesting that Synology’s tiering support matrix has been determined on a per-model basis rather than by hardware class.

Model Listings (as defined under DSM 7.3):

• Hot-tier supported systems:
  FS6400, FS3600, FS3410, FS3400, FS2500, FS200T, HD6500, SA3400D, SA3200D, SA6400, SA3610, SA3600, SA3410, SA3400, RS4021xs+, RS3621xs+, RS3621RPxs, RS2825RP+, DS3622xs+, DS1823xs+, DS1621xs+, DS1825+, DS1525+, DS925+, DS725+, DS425+, DS225+.

• Cold-tier supported systems:
  HD6500, FS6400, FS3600, FS3410, FS3400, FS2500, FS200T, SA3400D, SA3200D, SA6400, SA3610, SA3600, SA3410, SA3400, RS4021xs+, RS3621xs+, RS3621RPxs, RS2825RP+, RS2423RP+, RS2423+, RS2821RP+, RS2421RP+, RS2421+, RS1221RP+, RS1221+, RS822RP+, RS822+, RS820RP+, RS820+, RS422+, DS3622xs+, DS1823xs+, DS1621xs+, DS2422+, DS1825+, DS1821+, DS1621+, DS1525+, DS1522+, DS1520+, DS925+, DS923+, DS725+, DS723+, DS920+, DS720+, DS620slim, DS425+, DS423+, DS420+, DS225+, DS224+, DS220+, DVA1622, DVA3221.

The division between these two groups highlights some unexpected choices, where NAS models with more advanced configurations—such as integrated NVMe storage or faster network options—are limited to cold-tier participation, while smaller, SATA-only systems are permitted full hot-tier operation.

Are Synology AI Admin Console Services Worth Upgrading to DSM 7.3 For?

The Synology AI Console is a new administrative framework introduced in DSM 7.3 that allows NAS administrators to connect external artificial intelligence and large language model (LLM) services, such as OpenAI, Azure OpenAI, Google Gemini, and Amazon Bedrock, directly into select Synology productivity applications. Its purpose is to enhance tools like Synology MailPlus and Synology Office with text summarisation, translation, and content generation capabilities.

Rather than hosting AI workloads locally, the Console acts as a bridge between the NAS and third-party AI providers through user-supplied API keys. Administrators can control who can access these features, set daily or per-minute token limits to manage consumption, and monitor all requests via detailed transaction logs.

A privacy-focused de-identification mechanism can also be enabled to mask sensitive data—such as names, IP addresses, or account details—before it leaves the NAS for external processing, restoring it upon return.

While these controls demonstrate a well-considered security approach, the AI Console remains divisive. Because all AI requests are processed externally rather than on-device, the system sends portions of MailPlus and Office text content to third-party cloud providers for analysis and response generation.

Even with encryption and masking in place, this design conflicts with the expectations of users who adopt a NAS precisely to maintain full local control over data.

Moreover, the Console currently supports only text-based functions and does not provide local inference, on-device LLM hosting, or GPU-accelerated processing, which limits its appeal to professional or privacy-conscious users. For most home and small-business owners, the AI Console is an optional enhancement rather than a compelling reason to upgrade.

It may benefit organisations already running MailPlus or Office in a collaborative environment, but its dependence on external AI infrastructure means its inclusion in DSM 7.3 is unlikely to justify a system-wide update on its own.

A Pre-emptive Warning about DSM 7.3 and Synology RS / Rackstation and NVR / DVA Surveillance Systems

While DSM 7.3 restores third-party hard drive flexibility on the 2025 DiskStation Plus range, this policy change does not extend to RackStation (RS) or DVA/NVR systems. These models continue to enforce Synology’s restricted compatibility framework, requiring officially verified HAT, HAS, or SAT series drives for full SMART monitoring, health data reporting, and warranty-backed operation. Unverified drives may still function but typically appear with degraded status indicators, limited temperature or lifespan data, and persistent “incompatible” warnings within Storage Manager.

This limitation remains particularly relevant to surveillance deployments, as Synology has yet to certify common NVR-grade drives such as Seagate IronWolf, Seagate SkyHawk, or WD Purple series models. At the time of writing, only one 2025-generation RackStation has been released under this policy, but Synology is expected to expand the line-up significantly into Q1 2026, with new models such as the DVA7400, DVA3000, and additional 4- and 8-bay RS systems all expected to ship with DSM 7.3 pre-installed and to follow the same verified-drive enforcement. As such, administrators planning future rackmount or surveillance deployments should confirm drive support in advance, as Synology shows no signs of relaxing its enterprise compatibility standards for these product tiers.

Should You Upgrade to DSM 7.3? VERDICT

For most existing Synology users, DSM 7.3 stands as a careful, incremental evolution of the platform rather than a major overhaul. It introduces refinements in data protection, encryption handling, and administrative control while restoring a more open stance on third-party hard drive use under the new HCL 5.0 policy. These adjustments address several long-standing user concerns, particularly on the 2025 Plus series, where Synology has finally reintroduced full flexibility for HDD and SSD compatibility. However, outside of that reversal, DSM 7.3’s core updates—such as minor kernel improvements, user interface refinements, and system efficiency tweaks—represent evolutionary stability rather than innovation. The release also marks Synology’s first attempt to integrate AI-based administrative tools and multi-tier storage, but both features remain optional, niche in scope, and better suited to advanced users or multi-NAS deployments. For those running stable DSM 7.2 environments, the upgrade is beneficial but not essential, as few of the new capabilities materially alter day-to-day operations.

That said, DSM 7.3 remains a worthwhile step forward for users who want to align their systems with Synology’s next-generation framework before DSM 8’s eventual release. Owners of newer 2025 models such as the DS925+, DS1525+, or RS2825RP+ will likely find the update unavoidable, as it forms the baseline for upcoming package releases and extended security support. Administrators managing large data environments may also appreciate the improved directory integration, enhanced file versioning, and native exFAT support included in this release. Still, those relying on older Plus or XS-class devices for media, backup, or general storage tasks may prefer to wait for a few minor revisions before upgrading, allowing early adopters to expose any unforeseen issues. DSM 7.3 is polished and well-structured, but it feels transitional—a bridge between legacy DSM 7.2 deployments and the more modern, AI-aware infrastructure Synology is preparing for DSM 8. Unless you specifically require its new storage policies, tiering capabilities, or AI integration, remaining on DSM 7.2 remains a stable, low-risk option for the foreseeable future.

Which Systems Support the DSM 7.3 Upgrade? (Updated List)

The DSM 7.3 (version 7.3-81180) update is available as a manual download for an extensive range of Synology NAS systems, spanning the Plus, XS, SA, FS, HD, Value, and J series. Rollout continues in stages, meaning some users will not yet receive an automatic update notification. Once installed, DSM 7.3 cannot be downgraded to a previous version, and for many older models, it will be the final feature-bearing update, with future maintenance limited to security and stability patches.

The complete set of DSM 7.3 installation files, as listed in Synology’s October 2025 release, confirms support for virtually all NAS models released between 2016 and 2025. Key model families include:

DiskStation desktop systems:
DS1019+, DS116, DS118, DS119j, DS120j, DS124, DS1517+, DS1517, DS1520+, DS1522+, DS1525+, DS1618+, DS1621+, DS1621xs+, DS1817+, DS1817, DS1819+, DS1821+, DS1823xs+, DS1825+, DS216+, DS216, DS216+II, DS216j, DS216play, DS218+, DS218, DS218j, DS218play, DS220+, DS220j, DS223, DS223j, DS224+, DS225+, DS2419+, DS2419+II, DS2422+, DS3018xs, DS3617xs, DS3617xsII, DS3622xs+, DS416, DS416j, DS416play, DS416slim, DS418, DS418j, DS418play, DS419slim, DS420+, DS420j, DS423+, DS423, DS425+, DS620slim, DS716+, DS716+II, DS718+, DS720+, DS723+, DS725+, DS916+, DS918+, DS920+, DS923+, DS925+.

RackStation and enterprise systems:
RS1219+, RS1221+, RS1221RP+, RS1619xs+, RS18016xs+, RS18017xs+, RS217, RS2416+, RS2416RP+, RS2418+, RS2418RP+, RS2421+, RS2421RP+, RS2423+, RS2423RP+, RS2818RP+, RS2821RP+, RS2825RP+, RS3617RPxs, RS3617xs+, RS3617xs, RS3618xs, RS3621RPxs, RS3621xs+, RS4017xs+, RS4021xs+, RS422+, RS816, RS818+, RS818RP+, RS819, RS820+, RS820RP+.

Data-centre and performance platforms:
FS1018, FS2017, FS2500, FS3017, FS3400, FS3410, FS3600, FS6400, HD6500, SA3200D, SA3400, SA3400D, SA3410, SA3600, SA3610, SA6400.

Video analytics and surveillance models:
DVA1622, DVA3219, DVA3221.

Virtual DSM package:
VirtualDSM 7.3-81180.

This dataset confirms that DSM 7.3 has been compiled for almost every currently supported platform, with file sizes ranging from roughly 300 MB for entry-level systems (such as the DS120j and RS217) up to 430 MB for enterprise and FlashStation devices. Users operating 2025-generation systems such as the DS225+, DS425+, DS725+, DS925+, DS1525+, DS1825+, RS2825RP+, and SA3410 will receive DSM 7.3 pre-installed or as part of first-release firmware. For older devices dating back to 2016–2018, DSM 7.3 will act as the final major update before DSM 8 arrives in 2026.

Which Synology NAS will See DSM 7.3 as their LAST Major Synology Update?

The DSM 7.3 (version 7.3-81180) update is available for a wide range of Synology NAS models, though rollout is staged and certain older systems will remain on DSM 7.2 or earlier. It is important to note that DSM 7.3 will be the final major upgrade for many devices, after which they will continue to receive only security and maintenance patches. Users should also be aware that once installed, DSM 7.3 cannot be downgraded.

Models eligible for DSM 7.3 upgrade:
FS Series: FS3017, FS2017, FS1018
XS Series: RS18016xs+, RS4017xs+, RS3617xs+, RS3617xs, RS3617RPxs, RS18017xs+, DS3617xs, DS3617xsII, DS3018xs
Plus Series: RS2416RP+, RS2416+, DS916+, DS716+II, DS716+, DS216+II, DS216+, DS1817+, DS1517+, RS2818RP+, RS2418RP+, RS2418+, RS818RP+, RS818+, DS1618+, DS918+, DS718+, DS218+, RS1219+
Value Series: DS116, DS216, DS216play, DS416, DS416play, DS1517, DS1817, DS418play, RS217, RS816
J Series: DS216j, DS416j, DS416slim, DS419slim, DS418j, DS218j, DS119j

For these devices, DSM 7.3 represents the end of the feature update cycle, effectively marking the transition point toward DSM 8, which will accompany newer 2026 and later hardware. Users operating 2025-series NAS systems that are produced by Synology in 2026 (the DS225+, DS425+, DS725+, DS925+, DS1525+, DS1825+, and RS2825RP+) will receive DSM 7.3 by default and will likely be among the first to transition to DSM 8 once available.

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Is the Synology DS925+, DS1825+, DS1525+, etc NAS OK to Buy Now?

As this change in unverified hard drive support policy by Synology seems to be rolled out in the DSM 7.3 update, that means that currently if you buy and deply a Synology x25 generation NAS, you will still be subject to the restricted HDD deployment status of DSM right now (i.e cannot initialize, cannot RAID build, Rebuild, hot spare, etc unless using a Synology labelled drive or one that eventually might arrive on the compatibility list). So, if you buy the new Synology DS925+, DS1825+ or DS1525+ – unless you were already going to buy Synology hard drive and SSD media, you won’t be able to do very much out the box! So, if you are only considering a Synology NAS right now IF it can be used with 3rd party and/or unverified storage media – DO NOT BUY until the DSM 7.3 update rolls out! You will just be wasting some of your 3 year included warranty whilst you wait!

HOWEVER –If/When you do wish to purchase a Synology NAS, please do use the links below in order to purchase your NAS. Doing so results in a small commission coming to me and Ed here at NASCompares, and it allows us to keep doing what we do here, and is the most frictionless and zero-cost way for you to support our articles, reviews, videos, guides, support systems and more.

Synology DS925+ NAS	Synology DS1525+ NAS	Synology DS1825+ NAS
Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS1525+ NAS @ $799	Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS1825+ NAS @ $1149
heck B&H for the Synology DS925+ NAS	B&H for the Synology DS1525+ NAS @ $1149.99	B&H for the Synology DS1825+ NAS @ $1149.99

 

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Below are further videos from over the course of the last 6+ months that cover the evolution of Synology and this controversial hard drive support policy.

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Synology vient de mettre en ligne DSM 7.3-81180. Cette nouvelle version est importante non seulement par plusieurs améliorations et corrections, mais surtout par un changement de politique concernant la compatibilité des disques durs tiers. On vous explique tout…

 

Synology DSM 7.3

C’est LA grande nouveauté de DSM 7.3 : Synology fait marche arrière sur la restriction des disques durs tiers. Souvenez-vous : en avril dernier, le constructeur avait annoncé que ses nouveaux modèles DSx25+ nécessiteraient exclusivement l’utilisation de disques durs ou SSD Synology (ou officiellement certifiés). Cette décision avait suscité de nombreuses réactions négatives de la part des utilisateurs, ici même et sur notre forum.

Il y a quelques jours, Synology France avait pourtant confirmé qu’aucun changement n’était prévu à court terme. Pourtant, contre toute attente, DSM 7.3 réintroduit la compatibilité avec les disques durs tiers, un revirement qui ravira bon nombre de passionnés de NAS.

Dans son communiqué, Synology précise :

Synology collabore avec les fabricants de disques pour élargir la gamme de supports de stockage certifiés, offrant ainsi plus d’options fiables. En attendant, les modèles DiskStation Plus, Value et J Series de l’année 2025 exécutant DSM 7.3 prendront en charge l’installation et la création de groupes de stockage avec des disques tiers¹.

Tout d’abord, on apprend l’arrivée prochaine de nouveaux modèles des gammes Value et J. Une évolution inattendue puisque le constructeur avait, par le passé, indiqué vouloir rationaliser son catalogue. Il semblerait donc que nous ayons droit à de NAS DSx25 et DSx25j.

Enfin, point important (et sans réelle surprise) : la note de bas de page ¹ précise que la création d’un groupe de stockage ou d’un cache basé sur des SSD M.2 nécessite toujours l’utilisation de disques figurant sur la HCL (Hardware Compatibility List).

Nouveautés de DSM 7.3

Voici les principales nouveautés listées dans le journal des modifications :

• Les mises à jour automatiques importantes de DSM peuvent désormais être reportées jusqu’à 28 jours après la première notification ;
• Prise en charge du Tiering (Bêta) et du Tiering Vault (Bêta) ;
• Support natif du format exFAT pour les périphériques externes (le package exFAT Access est supprimé) :
• Sauvegarde et restauration du paramètre « Vérifier le certificat du serveur » dans le service d’annuaire LDAP ;
• Possibilité de sélectionner les unités organisationnelles (OU) à synchroniser lors de la connexion à un domaine ;
• Nouvelle option pour verrouiller automatiquement les volumes chiffrés lors d’une réinitialisation manuelle (désactivée par défaut) :
• Envoi par e-mail de codes de récupération d’urgence OTP, utile si un utilisateur ne peut pas recevoir son code d’authentification à deux facteurs.

Corrections et sécurité

DSM 7.3 apporte également de nombreuses corrections et améliorations de sécurité :

• Correction d’un problème pouvant faire échouer les sauvegardes DSM ou Hyper Backup pendant la synchronisation de dossiers partagés ;
• Résolution d’une anomalie provoquant l’échec des sauvegardes complètes dans Active Backup for Business ou Hyper Backup à cause de snapshots résiduels ;
• Correction d’erreurs pouvant interrompre la réplication de snapshots ;
• Plusieurs vulnérabilités de sécurité ont été corrigées, notamment :
  • curl (CVE-2023-38545)
  • AppleTalk (CVE-2023-51781)
  • krb5 (CVE-2024-37371)
  • PostgreSQL (CVE-2025-1094)
  • Et d’autres correctifs de sécurité : CVE-2024-12085, CVE-2020-22218, CVE-2024-24806 et CVE-2023-37920.

Fin du support pour certains modèles

Pour plusieurs modèles de NAS, DSM 7.3 sera la dernière version prise en charge :

• Série FS
  FS3017, FS2017, FS1018
• Série XS
  DS3018xs, DS3617xs, DS3617xsII, RS18016xs+, RS18017xs+, RS3617xs, RS3617RPxs, RS3617xs+, RS3618xs, RS4017xs+, RS819, RS217
• Série Plus
  DS216+, DS216+II, DS716+, DS716+II, DS916+, DS718+, DS918+, DS1019+, DS218+, DS1517+, DS1817+, DS1618+, DS1819+, DS2419+, DS2419+II, RS2416+, RS2416RP+, RS2418+, RS2418RP+, RS2818RP+, RS818+, RS818RP+, RS1219+
• Série Value
  DS116, DS216, DS216play, DS416, DS416play, RS816, DS118, DS218, DS218play, DS418, DS418play, DS1517, DS1817
• Série J
  DS216j, DS416j, DS416slim, DS419slim, DS418j, DS218j, DS119j

Comment télécharger et installer DSM 7.3

Si votre NAS ne vous propose pas automatiquement cette mise à jour, voici comment l’installer manuellement en suivant ces étapes :

1. Téléchargement du fichier
   Allez sur la page officielle du Centre de téléchargement de Synology ou sur le site d’archive officiel. Téléchargez le fichier de mise à jour au format .pat (350 Mo).
2. Installation manuelle
   • Connectez-vous à l’interface d’administration de votre NAS.
   • Accédez à Panneau de configuration > Mise à jour et restauration.
   • Cliquez sur Mise à jour manuelle de DSM.
   • Sélectionnez le fichier téléchargé via le bouton Parcourir.
   • Cliquez sur OK et attendez environ 3 minutes.
3. Redémarrage obligatoire
   Une fois la mise à jour terminée, votre NAS redémarrera automatiquement.

Attention, cette mise à jour est assez longue… comptez entre 10 et 30 minutes suivant la configuration. Il est important de noter que plusieurs paquets sont également mis à jour avec DSM 7.3.

The Synology Hard Drive and SSD Support Change in DSM 7.3 Explained – What You Can/Cannot Do

With the release of DSM 7.3, Synology has formally introduced its latest and most detailed round of storage compatibility policies to date, outlining exactly which hard drives and solid-state drives are supported across its growing NAS product ecosystem. These updates arrive after several years of gradual tightening in Synology’s hardware validation process, which began in 2021 with the introduction of the HAT5300 and HAT3300 drives and became fully enforced in the 2024–2025 generation of devices. Under DSM 7.2, many of these newer systems—in particular the Plus series—were restricted to using Synology-branded drives only, effectively preventing users from creating storage pools with unverified third-party disks. This limitation led to considerable backlash from the community and power users who had relied on flexible drive choices for mixed or repurposed storage builds.

DSM 7.3 introduces a new structure to this policy, known internally as the HCL 5.0 framework, which partially relaxes those restrictions for 2025 model-year DiskStation Plus and J series NAS systems. It reinstates the ability to use non-listed hard drives and SATA SSDs for pool creation, while maintaining a degree of verification for higher-end systems such as the XS, SA, FS, and HD series. The update is significant because it rebalances Synology’s approach to drive validation, aligning reliability goals with user flexibility. In addition, DSM 7.3’s drive-handling system now displays clearer notifications within Storage Manager, differentiating between listed, unlisted, and incompatible drives, helping users understand the operational impact of their hardware choices before deploying them into active volumes or caches.

For professionals managing larger deployments, DSM 7.3 also provides expanded transparency on what Synology considers “verified reliability,” listing the precise categories of tests that certified drives undergo—thermal stress, power cycle endurance, and abnormal shutdown simulation—before being added to the official compatibility list. These details are especially relevant for IT administrators planning storage upgrades or migrations, as the new compatibility tables make it clear which drive types can be used in different Synology product families. This article breaks down the logic behind these changes, explains how Synology’s updated system reacts to various drive types, and clarifies which NAS lines now support third-party drives under DSM 7.3.

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Why Synology Has Changed Hard Drive and SSD Support in DSM 7.3?

When the Synology 2025 PLUS series launched in spring 2025, Synology’s decision to restrict many newer NAS models to officially approved Synology-branded drives marked a major turning point in the company’s storage policy, triggering widespread criticism across its user base. Systems like the DS923+ and DS1522+ suddenly required drives from Synology’s HAT or SAT ranges for creating new storage pools, leaving long-time users frustrated that they could no longer use trusted third-party disks from vendors such as Seagate or Western Digital. Synology’s explanation at the time centered on reliability: they claimed a growing number of support incidents were linked to unverified drives with unstable firmware, inconsistent temperature readings, or poor power recovery behavior. The aim was to unify performance standards across the portfolio and ensure that every supported configuration met enterprise-grade validation tests already used in their FS and SA lines. However, as the backlash grew throughout 2024 and early 2025, it became clear that many customers—especially small businesses and home users—felt alienated by this rigid policy. Some migrated to alternative NAS ecosystems, while others publicly voiced concerns about the long-term openness of Synology’s platform. In response, Synology developed a new compatibility framework known as HCL 5.0, introduced in DSM 7.3, to strike a balance between reliability and flexibility. This new approach reinstates the ability to use unlisted hard drives and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for storage pool creation on 2025 DiskStation Plus, Value, and J series models, provided the drives are not explicitly marked as incompatible. Meanwhile, enterprise systems such as the FS, SA, XS, and HD ranges continue to enforce strict compatibility for mission-critical stability. Synology described this as a pragmatic evolution of its policy, aligning with customer expectations while continuing to collaborate with major drive manufacturers to validate additional models under its new testing program. The result is a hybrid policy that protects Synology’s enterprise reliability standards but restores much of the flexibility and user confidence that defined the brand’s earlier systems.

What Happens When a User Installs a Hard Drive That Is Not on the Compatibility List but Is Not on the Incompatibility List Either?

Under DSM 7.3, Synology has overhauled how its NAS systems handle drives that are not officially listed in the compatibility database but are also not explicitly marked as incompatible. This new policy, part of the HCL 5.0 framework, restores the flexibility that was largely lost with DSM 7.2. For users of 2025 DiskStation Plus models, including systems such as the DS1525+, DS925+, and DS725+, these drives are now treated as fully functional and supported for installation, storage pool creation, and volume management. When a non-listed HDD or SATA SSD is installed in these units, DSM 7.3 accepts it without generating warnings, restrictions, or “unverified” messages. The drive behaves identically to a fully approved model, and users can create new RAID arrays, expand existing volumes, and use all standard DSM features such as snapshots, encryption, and Hyper Backup. This marks a significant shift from DSM 7.2, which blocked pool creation entirely if the installed drive was not verified by Synology.

The only distinction that remains is on the support side rather than the user interface. While DSM 7.3 operates normally with these drives, Synology’s technical support team may limit assistance for issues proven to be caused by non-listed hardware. This distinction allows experienced users to use mixed or legacy drives at their discretion while maintaining a clear boundary of responsibility. From a practical standpoint, performance, drive telemetry, and reliability monitoring remain fully available, including S.M.A.R.T. analysis, temperature reporting, and bad sector scanning. Storage pools built with these drives are indistinguishable from those using Synology-validated models, which means users can freely upgrade or migrate without worrying about feature loss.

The only exceptions to this open policy involve M.2 NVMe drives and systems outside the Plus, Value, or J series. NVMe SSDs used for caching or storage pools still require official validation because they endure heavier sustained write loads and generate more heat under continuous NAS workloads. As a result, only listed M.2 models can be used for new cache or pool creation, though previously configured drives can still be migrated. Meanwhile, enterprise-oriented NAS lines such as the RS, FS, SA, and XS series continue to operate under stricter compatibility rules, where only officially listed drives can be used for new storage pool creation. In these systems, non-listed drives can sometimes be recognized for migration, but cannot participate in new arrays or cache volumes.

For most users, this means that DSM 7.3 on the 2025 Plus series finally restores the traditional Synology experience: the ability to use virtually any NAS-grade hard drive or 2.5-inch SSD without restriction. It also removes the previous generation’s unnecessary barriers that alienated long-term customers. Synology has positioned this change as a response to community feedback, reaffirming that flexibility can coexist with reliability. The HCL 5.0 framework is now the baseline for all new consumer and prosumer systems, signaling Synology’s partial return to an open and more user-friendly storage policy.

How Is Hard Drive Compatibility in DSM 7.3 on the Rackstation/RS and NVR/DVA Surveillance NAS Systems?

While the original restrictions are expected (though not wholy welcome) for enterprise-grade units, DSM 7.3 also applies similar limitations to rackmount Plus (RS+) and DVA/NVR models, which has generated frustration among users expecting parity with desktop Plus series devices. Systems such as the RS2423RP+, RS422+, and DVA1622 remain governed by a more conservative policy, where only drives on the compatibility list can be used for new pool creation, and unlisted HDDs are accepted only for migration. In contrast to the new, flexible policy introduced for 2025 DiskStation Plus models, these rackmount and surveillance systems do not yet benefit from the same relaxed rules. This distinction is particularly disappointing given that many surveillance-optimized HDDs—such as Seagate’s SkyHawk or IronWolf ranges—have not yet been verified by Synology for DVA or NVR units, leaving buyers with fewer officially supported choices despite these drives being purpose-built for similar workloads.

The DVA and NVR product lines further complicate matters because their operating environments rely heavily on consistent write performance and power management behavior. Synology’s internal reasoning is that drive validation for continuous surveillance recording requires more predictable I/O latency and lower error recovery times than typical NAS workloads. However, the practical impact is a reduced range of compatible disks, even when many third-party NAS or CCTV-specific drives are known to perform reliably under similar conditions. Until Synology expands its verification program to include these models, administrators deploying rackmount Plus or DVA systems must continue to rely exclusively on officially listed drives or accept limited migration-only functionality.

These restrictions highlight an ongoing inconsistency in Synology’s product ecosystem. DSM 7.3 offers broad flexibility and open drive use on desktop Plus series systems but maintains enterprise-grade rigidity across rackmount Plus and surveillance-focused models. For now, this gap means that users deploying DSM 7.3 on RS or DVA systems cannot benefit from the same simplified, user-friendly drive policy available to standard DiskStation Plus NAS units.

How Is Hard Drive Compatibility in DSM 7.3 on the FS, HD, SA, UC, XS+, XS, and DP Series?

In DSM 7.3, Synology continues to apply the most stringent validation rules across its enterprise and datacenter-class NAS platforms, which include the FS, HD, SA, UC, XS+, XS, RS, and DP series. These systems are built for environments where sustained uptime, predictable throughput, and long-term data integrity are non-negotiable. As a result, they rely entirely on Synology’s Enterprise Compatibility Framework, which only permits the use of drives that have been formally validated and listed on the official compatibility database. These listed drives undergo intensive reliability testing, including extended read/write stress cycles, multi-node redundancy simulations, and controlled recovery from power or network failures. DSM 7.3 enforces this framework to guarantee consistent behavior across RAID arrays and to ensure that firmware-level optimizations, such as error recovery timing and caching algorithms, work as designed with Synology’s proprietary storage stack.

For users of these enterprise models, drives fall into three possible states: listed, not listed, and incompatible. Listed drives are fully supported for installation, storage pool creation, caching, and migration. Drives that are not listed may still appear in Storage Manager but are limited to migration-only use, meaning they can be mounted if they come from an existing Synology system but cannot be initialized for new volumes or RAID groups. This allows data recovery or transition from legacy setups without granting full functionality. Meanwhile, drives on the incompatibility list are blocked entirely and cannot be used in any capacity. These restrictions are designed to prevent firmware mismatches or mechanical inconsistencies that could undermine array stability. In practice, this means that enterprise and rackmount models remain tied to the official drive ecosystem, often limited to Synology’s own HAT or HAS series drives or verified OEM equivalents.

In these product classes, DSM 7.3 also maintains a strict policy for cache and SSD usage. M.2 NVMe drives can only be used for caching or storage pools if they appear on the official compatibility list. Unlisted M.2 drives are detected by the system but cannot be assigned to any cache operation, even for testing purposes. Similarly, 2.5-inch SATA or SAS SSDs that are not verified cannot participate in new array creation, even though they may mount for migration. This conservative approach reflects Synology’s focus on maintaining data integrity over flexibility in its upper-tier systems, where downtime or data corruption can carry substantial business costs. DSM communicates these restrictions clearly during setup: any attempt to use an unsupported drive for new pool creation will trigger a warning explaining that the operation cannot proceed due to compatibility enforcement.

What are the benefits of Buying Synology-branded Hard Drives and SSDs?

In parallel with the policy adjustments introduced in DSM 7.3, Synology has also begun expanding a series of benefits and incentives aimed at customers who purchase Synology NAS systems together with Synology-branded storage media. These initiatives are part of the company’s ongoing effort to strengthen its vertically integrated ecosystem, ensuring optimal performance and reliability when all components come from the same source. In selected markets, buyers who purchase Synology HAT, HAS, or SAT series drives on the same invoice as their NAS hardware now receive extended warranty coverage of up to five years, administered directly through authorized distributors and resellers. In addition, Synology has introduced an Express Replacement program, allowing for immediate drive swaps during the warranty period without waiting for the defective unit to be shipped and inspected, effectively mirroring the convenience of a premium RMA service. These benefits are available at no extra cost when drives are purchased through approved channels. The initiative is designed to make Synology’s validated ecosystem more appealing to businesses seeking predictable lifecycle management and faster recovery in the event of hardware failure, while also providing an incentive for users to standardize on Synology-branded components rather than mixing third-party storage.

Head over to Blackvoid HERE to read Luka’s great write-up on DSM 7.3 below:

DSM 7.3 and Hard Drive / SSD Support Conclusion

DSM 7.3 might well represent the most comprehensive and transparent storage compatibility framework Synology has released to date (after years of obviscation and unclear messaging), but it also reinforces a clear divide between its consumer and enterprise platforms. The introduction of the HCL 5.0 policy marks a pragmatic shift from the heavily restricted DSM 7.1/7.2 model, restoring the flexibility that long-time users had relied on for more than a decade. On the 2025 DiskStation Plus series, users can once again install and operate any third-party NAS-grade HDD or SATA SSD without limitation, bringing back the open and adaptable system design that helped define Synology’s reputation. This balance between openness and validation shows the company’s recognition of user feedback and its effort to rebuild trust after widespread criticism of its earlier drive-locking policy. By maintaining full functionality for unlisted drives while still reserving strict validation for high-end hardware, DSM 7.3 offers a compromise that keeps consumer-grade systems practical and professional-grade systems predictable. Not ideal, but better than what was already in place.

However, DSM 7.3 also underlines the growing separation between Synology’s desktop Plus models and its rackmount Plus, DVA, and enterprise systems. While home and small-business users benefit from restored flexibility, administrators working with rackmount or surveillance solutions remain tied to tightly controlled drive lists. The continued exclusion of common NAS and NVR-grade drives—such as Seagate IronWolf and SkyHawk or WD Purple series—from the verified list limits adoption and drives up deployment costs, particularly for surveillance users who require high-capacity, continuous-write storage. Until Synology expands its validation program or aligns its rackmount Plus systems with the same drive-handling rules as its desktop equivalents, this divide will remain a sticking point. DSM 7.3 is therefore both a meaningful correction and a reminder that Synology’s storage policy continues to evolve in response to user pressure. It moves the platform back toward flexibility without abandoning its enterprise reliability philosophy, but the differences between product tiers are now more visible than ever.

Want to Support What We Do? Use the Links Below to Buy your NAS and/or HDD and SSD Media. Clicking these links will result in a small commission for anything you purchase, heading to me and Eddie @NASCompares and allows us to keep doing this! It’s just us two here and between this and ads, it’s the most passive way to keep us sailing! Thanks

Synology NAS and Media on Amazon – HERE Synology Products on B&H – HERE Seagate Ironwolf Media on Amazon – HERE WD Red Media on Amazon – HERE Seagate Products on B&H – HERE WD Products on B&H – HERE

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Synology (FINALLY) Gives In to 3rd Party HDD Support in 2025 PLUS Series NAS

7/10/25 – Updated with information supplied by Synology on how verifications and product ranges will support different HDD/SSD in DSM 7.3

Of all the stories of 2025, very few had the level of impact on the NAS industry that the Hard Drive support policy change by Synology did. Arguably THE name in the world of turnkey NAS, Synology enjoyed a fairly spotless reputation up until recent years, but when their gradual first-party support stance took a very drastic acceleration in April 2025 with a complete lockout of HDDs from Seagate and WD for their 2025 generation of hardware, the industry responded very, very unfavourably (Ed – understatement of the YEAR). Over the months that followed, even some of the biggest tech platforms and consumer rights focused media outlets on the internet made damning statements about the brand’s actions, previously very Synology-friendly outlets either criticised the move or simply ceased covering Synology, and even typically heavily supportive Synology-associated platforms such as the Synology subreddit and yes even here at NASCompares were keen to highlight every inconsistent turn of this story. After six months of heavy fire, undoubtedly poor sales of the 7–8 released Synology 2025 generation hardware launches in that time (eg DS925+, DS1825+, DS425+, etc), repeated missteps by the brand in user engagement (such as disabling comments on videos, contradictory press statements and baffling justifications around hardware)… now… NOW the brand has announced that you will once again be able to use Seagate and WD Hard Drives on the Synology 2025 generation of devices – and importantly, this time without the level of shouted alerts and warnings. So, let’s discuss when this WD and Seagate Hard Drive media support is coming back, what are the limits, is this too little too late and whether all this was ever worth it for Synology.

When and How Will Third-Party Hard Drive Support Return to the 2025 Synology NAS?

Synology has detailed that third-party hard drive support will return to 2025 devices alongside the rollout of DSM 7.3, the next major update to the Synology software platform. Unlike previous statements earlier this year, this U-turn now means that Seagate and WD drives will not only be usable again but also with a significant reduction (possibly even complete removal – still awaiting exact testing of DSM 7.3 ourselves) from the constant “unverified drive” and “at risk” warnings that plagued users. This represents a return to the compatibility model users were familiar with before 2025. Exact rollout dates of the DSM 7.3 update are still pending (likely Q4 2025 or early Q1 2026), but this will mark the point where Synology’s 2025 NAS systems no longer block unsupported drives at installation. Until that update arrives and users proceed with it’s installation, Synology 2025 systems will of course still not allow unconfirmed media to initialise DSM. Likewise, it remains unclear how the update will interact with users who have already employed community scripts to bypass restrictions – whether these fixes will still be needed, or whether DSM 7.3 will overwrite them entirely.

Another important detail is how far this reinstated compatibility extends. According to Synology’s new position in the DSM 7.3 rollout, users will again be able to initialise DSM, create storage pools, volumes, run disk checks, expand pools, perform RAID repairs and create hot spare disks – essentially restoring the same functionality that was lost earlier this year. Crucially, the obtrusive warning messages that previously accompanied unsupported drives will be removed, which means the user experience should be indistinguishable from older Synology generations. Synology has stated that testing of specific Seagate and WD drives was still “ongoing” in the last 6 months, but this appears largely academic now, since DSM 7.3 will no longer enforce the same restrictions. Which brings into question the validity of those claims. In practice though, this means users can once again choose from the wider drive market, without fear of blocked features or disruptive alerts. It is still not 100% clear on what the position regarding M.2 NVMe SSDs and Storage Pool use will be, as well as if this is going to be completely brand wide – or just affecting the PLUS series new and old that are eligible for the DSM 7.3 update.

The Alerts and ‘Warnings’ that users have gotten used to up tll now (i.e pre DSM 7.3 roll out):

To confirm, the current 2025 systems that primarily this Synology U-turn on Hard Drive compatibility in DSM would affect are:

• Synology DS925+
• Synology DS1525+
• Synology DS725+
• Synology DS1825+
• Synology DS425+
• Synology DS225+
• Synology RS2825RP+

Previous PLUS series devices did not arrive with the exceedingly strict ‘no verified = no initialization’ rule that the above system’s had, so although these will benefit in DSM 7.3 with lessened warnings that they currently had, it is not the deal breaker proposition that it is/was in the x25 series.

However, let’s return to the point. Was ALL of this chaos by Synology worth it? Was there actually a coherent strategy in place here? Let’s discuss the damage that the last 6 months have caused.

What Happens When a User Installs a Hard Drive That Is Not on the Compatibility List but Is Not on the Incompatibility List Either?

Under DSM 7.3, Synology has overhauled how its NAS systems handle drives that are not officially listed in the compatibility database but are also not explicitly marked as incompatible. This new policy, part of the HCL 5.0 framework, restores the flexibility that was largely lost with DSM 7.2. For users of 2025 DiskStation Plus models, including systems such as the DS1525+, DS925+, and DS725+, these drives are now treated as fully functional and supported for installation, storage pool creation, and volume management. When a non-listed HDD or SATA SSD is installed in these units, DSM 7.3 accepts it without generating warnings, restrictions, or “unverified” messages. The drive behaves identically to a fully approved model, and users can create new RAID arrays, expand existing volumes, and use all standard DSM features such as snapshots, encryption, and Hyper Backup. This marks a significant shift from DSM 7.2, which blocked pool creation entirely if the installed drive was not verified by Synology.

The only distinction that remains is on the support side rather than the user interface. While DSM 7.3 operates normally with these drives, Synology’s technical support team may limit assistance for issues proven to be caused by non-listed hardware. This distinction allows experienced users to use mixed or legacy drives at their discretion while maintaining a clear boundary of responsibility. From a practical standpoint, performance, drive telemetry, and reliability monitoring remain fully available, including S.M.A.R.T. analysis, temperature reporting, and bad sector scanning. Storage pools built with these drives are indistinguishable from those using Synology-validated models, which means users can freely upgrade or migrate without worrying about feature loss.

The only exceptions to this open policy involve M.2 NVMe drives and systems outside the Plus, Value, or J series. NVMe SSDs used for caching or storage pools still require official validation because they endure heavier sustained write loads and generate more heat under continuous NAS workloads. As a result, only listed M.2 models can be used for new cache or pool creation, though previously configured drives can still be migrated. Meanwhile, enterprise-oriented NAS lines such as the RS, FS, SA, and XS series continue to operate under stricter compatibility rules, where only officially listed drives can be used for new storage pool creation. In these systems, non-listed drives can sometimes be recognized for migration, but cannot participate in new arrays or cache volumes.

For most users, this means that DSM 7.3 on the 2025 Plus series finally restores the traditional Synology experience: the ability to use virtually any NAS-grade hard drive or 2.5-inch SSD without restriction. It also removes the previous generation’s unnecessary barriers that alienated long-term customers. Synology has positioned this change as a response to community feedback, reaffirming that flexibility can coexist with reliability. The HCL 5.0 framework is now the baseline for all new consumer and prosumer systems, signaling Synology’s partial return to an open and more user-friendly storage policy.

How Is Hard Drive Compatibility in DSM 7.3 on the Rackstation/RS and NVR/DVA Surveillance NAS Systems?

While the original restrictions are expected (though not wholy welcome) for enterprise-grade units, DSM 7.3 also applies similar limitations to rackmount Plus (RS+) and DVA/NVR models, which has generated frustration among users expecting parity with desktop Plus series devices. Systems such as the RS2423RP+, RS422+, and DVA1622 remain governed by a more conservative policy, where only drives on the compatibility list can be used for new pool creation, and unlisted HDDs are accepted only for migration. In contrast to the new, flexible policy introduced for 2025 DiskStation Plus models, these rackmount and surveillance systems do not yet benefit from the same relaxed rules. This distinction is particularly disappointing given that many surveillance-optimized HDDs—such as Seagate’s SkyHawk or IronWolf ranges—have not yet been verified by Synology for DVA or NVR units, leaving buyers with fewer officially supported choices despite these drives being purpose-built for similar workloads.

The DVA and NVR product lines further complicate matters because their operating environments rely heavily on consistent write performance and power management behavior. Synology’s internal reasoning is that drive validation for continuous surveillance recording requires more predictable I/O latency and lower error recovery times than typical NAS workloads. However, the practical impact is a reduced range of compatible disks, even when many third-party NAS or CCTV-specific drives are known to perform reliably under similar conditions. Until Synology expands its verification program to include these models, administrators deploying rackmount Plus or DVA systems must continue to rely exclusively on officially listed drives or accept limited migration-only functionality.

These restrictions highlight an ongoing inconsistency in Synology’s product ecosystem. DSM 7.3 offers broad flexibility and open drive use on desktop Plus series systems but maintains enterprise-grade rigidity across rackmount Plus and surveillance-focused models. For now, this gap means that users deploying DSM 7.3 on RS or DVA systems cannot benefit from the same simplified, user-friendly drive policy available to standard DiskStation Plus NAS units.

How Is Hard Drive Compatibility in DSM 7.3 on the FS, HD, SA, UC, XS+, XS, and DP Series?

In DSM 7.3, Synology continues to apply the most stringent validation rules across its enterprise and datacenter-class NAS platforms, which include the FS, HD, SA, UC, XS+, XS, RS, and DP series. These systems are built for environments where sustained uptime, predictable throughput, and long-term data integrity are non-negotiable. As a result, they rely entirely on Synology’s Enterprise Compatibility Framework, which only permits the use of drives that have been formally validated and listed on the official compatibility database. These listed drives undergo intensive reliability testing, including extended read/write stress cycles, multi-node redundancy simulations, and controlled recovery from power or network failures. DSM 7.3 enforces this framework to guarantee consistent behavior across RAID arrays and to ensure that firmware-level optimizations, such as error recovery timing and caching algorithms, work as designed with Synology’s proprietary storage stack.

For users of these enterprise models, drives fall into three possible states: listed, not listed, and incompatible. Listed drives are fully supported for installation, storage pool creation, caching, and migration. Drives that are not listed may still appear in Storage Manager but are limited to migration-only use, meaning they can be mounted if they come from an existing Synology system but cannot be initialized for new volumes or RAID groups. This allows data recovery or transition from legacy setups without granting full functionality. Meanwhile, drives on the incompatibility list are blocked entirely and cannot be used in any capacity. These restrictions are designed to prevent firmware mismatches or mechanical inconsistencies that could undermine array stability. In practice, this means that enterprise and rackmount models remain tied to the official drive ecosystem, often limited to Synology’s own HAT or HAS series drives or verified OEM equivalents.

In these product classes, DSM 7.3 also maintains a strict policy for cache and SSD usage. M.2 NVMe drives can only be used for caching or storage pools if they appear on the official compatibility list. Unlisted M.2 drives are detected by the system but cannot be assigned to any cache operation, even for testing purposes. Similarly, 2.5-inch SATA or SAS SSDs that are not verified cannot participate in new array creation, even though they may mount for migration. This conservative approach reflects Synology’s focus on maintaining data integrity over flexibility in its upper-tier systems, where downtime or data corruption can carry substantial business costs. DSM communicates these restrictions clearly during setup: any attempt to use an unsupported drive for new pool creation will trigger a warning explaining that the operation cannot proceed due to compatibility enforcement.

What are the benefits of Buying Synology-branded Hard Drives and SSDs?

In parallel with the policy adjustments introduced in DSM 7.3, Synology has also begun expanding a series of benefits and incentives aimed at customers who purchase Synology NAS systems together with Synology-branded storage media. These initiatives are part of the company’s ongoing effort to strengthen its vertically integrated ecosystem, ensuring optimal performance and reliability when all components come from the same source. In selected markets, buyers who purchase Synology HAT, HAS, or SAT series drives on the same invoice as their NAS hardware now receive extended warranty coverage of up to five years, administered directly through authorized distributors and resellers. In addition, Synology has introduced an Express Replacement program, allowing for immediate drive swaps during the warranty period without waiting for the defective unit to be shipped and inspected, effectively mirroring the convenience of a premium RMA service. These benefits are available at no extra cost when drives are purchased through approved channels. The initiative is designed to make Synology’s validated ecosystem more appealing to businesses seeking predictable lifecycle management and faster recovery in the event of hardware failure, while also providing an incentive for users to standardize on Synology-branded components rather than mixing third-party storage.

Head over to Blackvoid HERE to read Luka’s great write-up on DSM 7.3 below:

Is it Too Little, Too Late? Is the Damage to the Synology Brand Already Done?

It’s a valid point. As mentioned in the intro, Synology has been a brand that, short of a few knocks along the way, has had a sterling reputation. Although their hardware has often been a little underwhelming, the software and services have been largely A1. But the move by Synology in restricting the use of drives from brands such as Seagate and WD burned A LOT of bridges. One cannot imagine that Western Digital or Seagate Technology were especially pleased by the rebuke either. The backlash was immediate and huge. Numerous sources I have spoken to in Europe and the U.S regarding Synology PLUS series sales (even for the 2023/22/21 ranges) confirmed the same sentiment: “Synology Diskstation sales were at a fraction of the previous year.” How much these support changes impacted enterprise solutions is unconfirmed, but given the number of sys-admins who quietly admitted to changing their buying plans, and sales teams who admitted recommending other vendors when Synology quotes became less competitive, the damage over the last 6 months has been palpable.

However, what about the next six months? Or the next 12 or 24? The timing of Synology’s disastrous hard drive support policy flip-flop could hardly have been worse. Alongside tech buyers (home and business) having tighter budgets due to rising costs, international trade tariffs being debated, new players entering the NAS industry, and rising expectations of what a system should do, Synology could not have chosen a worse moment for an unpopular policy. Many users who saw the way the policy was rolled out interpreted it as “the writing on the wall” and changed their stance on the brand. Some already jumped ship to alternative vendors, and others opted for older Synology hardware from pre-2025 ranges to avoid the lockout. For those buyers, the fact that the restrictions are now being removed will feel like a bitter twist – they could have had the newer hardware with the same freedom if they had simply waited a little longer.

How much of this shift can be attributed to public and media backlash is hard to quantify, but the scale of the U-turn speaks for itself. This is not the first time Synology has reversed course under pressure. Back in 2021/22, when DSM 7.0 introduced the earliest versions of its compatibility enforcement with red critical warnings, the outcry forced a retreat in DSM 7.1 to amber warnings instead (read here). History has now repeated itself on a much bigger stage. The difference is that this time, months of poor reviews, negative coverage, and lost sales will remain part of the public record, and Synology will struggle to erase that damage.

Much like QNAP and its long-running association with Deadbolt ransomware attacks, Synology may find that users do not easily forget this saga. For months, the internet has been awash with angry comments, critical reviews, and valid frustration at the brand’s direction. Even with DSM 7.3 restoring full drive freedom, the stigma of this six-month debacle will linger. Some users will never return. Others will approach Synology with renewed caution, mindful that the company could change course again in the future. The reaction from existing and potential Synology PLUS series NAS users was loud enough that I felt compelled to make two videos SPECIFICALLY because users were DM’ing and commenting about why I/NASCompares was continuing in our coverage of this brand:

Is the Synology DS925+, DS1825+, DS1525+, etc NAS OK to Buy Now?

As this change in unverified hard drive support policy by Synology seems to be rolled out in the DSM 7.3 update, that means that currently if you buy and deply a Synology x25 generation NAS, you will still be subject to the restricted HDD deployment status of DSM right now (i.e cannot initialize, cannot RAID build, Rebuild, hot spare, etc unless using a Synology labelled drive or one that eventually might arrive on the compatibility list). So, if you buy the new Synology DS925+, DS1825+ or DS1525+ – unless you were already going to buy Synology hard drive and SSD media, you won’t be able to do very much out the box! So, if you are only considering a Synology NAS right now IF it can be used with 3rd party and/or unverified storage media – DO NOT BUY until the DSM 7.3 update rolls out! You will just be wasting some of your 3 year included warranty whilst you wait!

HOWEVER –If/When you do wish to purchase a Synology NAS, please do use the links below in order to purchase your NAS. Doing so results in a small commission coming to me and Ed here at NASCompares, and it allows us to keep doing what we do here, and is the most frictionless and zero-cost way for you to support our articles, reviews, videos, guides, support systems and more.

Synology DS925+ NAS	Synology DS1525+ NAS	Synology DS1825+ NAS
Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS1525+ NAS @ $799	Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS1825+ NAS @ $1149
heck B&H for the Synology DS925+ NAS	B&H for the Synology DS1525+ NAS @ $1149.99	B&H for the Synology DS1825+ NAS @ $1149.99

 

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Below are further videos from over the course of the last 6+ months that cover the evolution of Synology and this controversial hard drive support policy.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Cela fait maintenant deux semaines que j’utilise les AirPods Pro 3. Pour moi, c’est un véritable changement (un vrai bond en avant), surtout que je suis passé directement de la première à cette troisième génération, sans transition. Mais attention, tout n’est pas parfait… notamment son prix de 249 € qui en freinera plus d’un.

Apple et la musique : un ADN toujours présent

Apple a clairement révolutionné le marché des écouteurs sans fil. Il y a eu un avant et un après AirPods. Avec les versions Pro, la marque a franchi un nouveau cap, notamment sur la réduction de bruit active. Soyons clairs, Apple n’a rien inventé, mais la firme a perfectionné bien des aspects, poussant encore plus loin la qualité sonore et l’expérience utilisateur.

On oublie parfois à quel point Apple entretient un lien fort avec la musique et la création sonore : Logic Pro, GarageBand, l’iPod ou encore la promotion du format AAC (Advanced Audio Coding). Sans oublier, bien sûr, le rachat stratégique de Beats en 2014.

Mon avis sur les AirPods Pro 3

Réduction du bruit : bluffante

Cet ADN musical se ressent pleinement dans les AirPods. Apple affirme que les AirPods Pro 3 offrent « la meilleure réduction active du bruit intra-auriculaire au monde ». Et il faut reconnaître que le résultat est impressionnant.

La nouvelle forme des écouteurs et les embouts repensés améliorent l’isolation passive. Une fois en place, la réduction se fait immédiatement sentir. Mais c’est surtout à l’activation du mode de réduction active que la magie opère : un véritable cocon de silence s’installe. Même dans les transports en commun, on peut écouter sa musique à faible volume, sans être dérangé. Un vrai confort…

Mode transparent : toujours aussi naturel

Présent depuis la première version, le mode transparent permet d’entendre les sons environnants comme si vous n’aviez rien dans les oreilles. Le rendu est toujours aussi naturel, sans latence perceptible. Ce mode fonctionne d’ailleurs aussi bien avec ou sans musique.

Détection des conversations

J’ai testé la détection automatique des conversations. Les AirPods réduisent le volume de la musique et activent le mode transparent dès que vous commencez à parler. C’est bluffant d’efficacité… mais je dois avouer que je n’en ai pas une réelle utilité au quotidien.

Conditions réelles

Durant ces 2 semaines, j’ai eu l’occasion de les tester en conditions variées : RER, métro, TGV et TER, lors de déplacements entre Paris et Nantes, Paris et Trouville. Je vous rassure, je ne les utilise pas que dans les transports…

Mais voici mon avis sur la réduction du bruit :

• RER : réduction quasi totale du bruit ambiant, très efficace
• Métro (ligne 6) : un léger bruit de fond subsiste, mais rien de gênant
• TGV Atlantique : très bon rendu, seul le roulement se fait légèrement entendre
• TER (Nomad) : bulle sonore agréable, avec un fond sonore très lointain

Seul bémol, après un peu plus de 3 heures d’écoute continue (musique et réunions), j’ai ressenti une légère fatigue auditive, une sensation de lourdeur dans les oreilles. Rien de dramatique, mais à noter.

Autres atouts

Les AirPods Pro 3 ne se contentent pas d’améliorer la réduction de bruit. Ils apportent une multitude d’améliorations : la charge en USB-C, un mini haut-parleur intégré au boîtier (localiser toujours actif), le niveau de charge permanent (boitier et écouteurs), la certification IP 57, les 8 heures d’autonomie en une seule charge, la fréquence cardiaque, les commandes tactiles… La liste est longue et on sent que tout a été pensé dans le moindre détail.

Un bijou technologique… à prix premium

Mais tout cela a un coût : 249 €. C’est le prix à payer pour s’offrir ces petits bijoux de technologie. La qualité est indéniable, tant sur le plan sonore que sur la réduction de bruit. Les AirPods Pro 3 vont bien au-delà de simples écouteurs, mais ils ne sont clairement pas à la portée de toutes les bourses. Si vous avez encore des AirPods Pro 1 comme moi et que vous hésitez à passer aux AirPods Pro 3 : vous pouvez y aller les yeux fermés. Ils sont disponibles chez Apple, Amazon et bien d’autres.

Prime Big Deal Day Bargains on Synology, QNAP, UGREEN, Terramaster, Seagate and More to Watch

That’s right, it’s that time once again—Amazon Prime Big Deal Day 2025 has arrived. The biggest e-retail giant in the world is rolling out its annual mega sale, and for those of us with a Prime subscription quietly siphoning cash every month, now’s the time to get something back. Whether you’re a home user looking to back up your devices or a business admin in need of robust storage solutions, Prime Day has consistently proven to be a great opportunity to upgrade your setup without breaking the bank. Unlike Black Friday—which tends to sprawl out across weeks and multiple platforms—Prime Day is a more concentrated event. That means the window to make a decision is often brief, and the best deals can vanish in hours, sometimes even minutes. So if you’re eyeing that NAS you’ve been meaning to buy or hoping to expand your RAID array with some fresh HDDs or SSDs, now’s the time to act fast. Today, we’re rounding up as many of the best Amazon Prime Day deals on NAS and storage tech as we can find. That includes offers on popular brands like Synology, QNAP, WD, Seagate, Terramaster, and others. Alongside the real-time deals that we (me and Eddie—yes, still working double shifts!) track throughout the event, we’ve also put together a list of recommended hardware to watch for. Many of these devices pop up on lightning deals with limited stock, so having a shortlist in mind can really help.

Important Note – Every year, we run these Prime Day and Black Friday deal pages the same way: by personally curating the offers we believe are genuinely worth it. If it’s not something we’d buy ourselves, we won’t include it. You can also contribute and share any bargains you come across using the community deal-sharing tool below. We do this for a couple of reasons. First, to help people make smarter decisions with their tech purchases. Second, because every time someone clicks a deal link and makes a purchase, we receive a small commission from Amazon—no extra cost to you. That affiliate income directly supports the site and allows us to keep producing NAS guides, reviews, and how-to content every single day. So, whether you’re looking to finally set up your first Plex server, expand your surveillance system, or just secure a better backup routine—there’s a good chance something will be on offer during Prime Day 2025. And if you’re unsure what’s right for your setup, don’t forget you can always use our Free Advice service for tailored recommendations.

Let’s dive into the deals!

In a hurry? Go directly to the official Prime Day deals list pages here:

• Amazon U.S Prime Day Deals Page HERE
• Amazon UK Prime Day Deals Page HERE
• Amazon Germany Prime Day Deals Page HERE

NOTE – This page will be updated hourly, starting October 7th 2025. Stay Tuned!

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UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NAS – 20% Price Drop – HERE

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Seagate 24TB USB External Backup Drive – 21% OFF, NOW $259.99

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Synology DS124 1-Bay NAS (4 Core, 1GB). 22% OFF, Now $139.99 

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Lexar 8TB NM790 S4x4 8TB SSD – 32% OFF, NOW $499.88

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AOOSTAR 4Bay Ryzen7 5825U NAS – 15% OFF HERE

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GL.iNet GL-BE3600 (Slate 7) Travel Router – 29% OFF, Now $120.99

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WD Blue SN5000 4TB SSD (29% OFF), NOW £194.73 / $199

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UGREEN NAS UPS, 120W – was £99 NOW $84.99 (15% OFF)

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TERRAMASTER F2-425 2025 NAS – 20% PRICE DROP

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Yxk Zero1 2-Bay NAS (4 Core, 2GB, 2.5G), 33% OFF – Now $99

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GMKtec Mini PC NAS (New Version) now 23% OFF, Now $229

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QNAP TS-233 2-Bay NAS, Now 15% OFF (Now £152.15) HERE

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GL.iNet GL-XE3000 (Puli AX) 5G SIM/LTE Router – 22% OFF, NOW $369.99

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Western Digital 14TB Elements USB  Drive – (39% off) NOW $169.99)

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UGREEN 20-25% OFF NAS Devices During Amazon Prime Day Deals

UGREEN continues to make alot of noise in the world of NAS, and during the Prime Big Deals Day event, they are reducing the price of all their NAS range (starting from the cost effective DH4300 and all the way upto the beefy DXP8800 PLUS) by upto 25%. You can find out more on their main page here, alternatively, each of the devices on offer is listed below:

AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE	AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE	AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE
AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE	AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE	AMAZON PAGE – UGREEN PAGE

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UPTO 30% off Terrmaster NAS and DAS During Prime Big Deals Day

Terramaster will be running deals of upto 30% across their latest 2024/2025 range of solutions from Prime Members. You can visit the page by clicking below or clicking HERE (Remember, offers do not start till October 7th)

F4 SSD NAS 4-Bay	F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	F8 SSD Plus NAS 8-Bay

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Gl.iNet upto 30% OFF Mobile Routers and KVM Devices

Pretty much the community darling when it comes to mobile router technology, Gl.inet has published several promotions around their mobile router devices, as well as their recent KVM devices (not the comet pro though!). Although alot of devices are on offer at the moment, the standout promotions include the recently lightweight Flint 3 WiFi 7 router, the Slate 7 Mobile WiFi 7 router, and the BEAST that is the PuliAX Mobile and multi-deployment SIM Router. See below:

Click Product to Head to Amazon for the Prime Day Deal:

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Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS, i3 CPU 8x M.2 10GbE NAS Now $639.99

 

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————–  Useful Links  —————

US Amazon – Amazon USA Prime Day Official Page – Amazon UK Prime Day Official Page

Amazon Warehouse (20% Off Everything on Prime Day)

USA – UK – Germany

Still unsure of what you need – use the Free Advice Section here on NASCompares.

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Les Prime Day d’Amazon se déroulent les 7 et 8 octobre 2025. Ces deux journées promotionnelles, exclusivement réservées aux membres du programme Amazon Prime, offrent la possibilité de profiter d’offres spéciales. C’est l’occasion idéale pour bénéficier de réductions importantes sur des milliers de produits. En cette période, pouvoir accéder à de telles remises est toujours une aubaine !

Pour bénéficier de ces offres, il faut être membre Amazon Prime. Si ce n’est pas le cas et que vous souhaitez profiter des promotions : vous pouvez tester gratuitement…

Profitez d’Amazon Prime gratuit pendant 30 jours

edit 7/10 à 13h57

NAS

Le NAS UGREEN DXP2800 est à 279,99€. Il s’agit d’un boitier 2 baies complet, animé par processeur Quad Core Intel N100 cadencé à 2 GHz (mode Burst jusqu’à 3,4 GHz) et épaulé par 8 Go de RAM DDR5.

UGREEN DXP2800

Le boitier 2 baies TerraMaster F2-425 est à 229,49€, soit une réduction de 15%. Sorti en août 2025, ce NAS est animé par un processeur Quad Core Intel N5095 et épaulé par 4 Go de RAM extensible jusqu’à 16 Go.

TerraMaster F2-425

On retrouve également l’excellent DXP4800 Plus au prix de 559,99€. Il s’agit d’un NAS 4 baies survitaminé, proposant une configuration robuste et du 10 Gb/s !

UGREEN DXP4800 Plus

Stockage interne

Le WD Red Plus 4 To passe à 104,09€. C’est le disque dur pour NAS de référence.

WD Red Plus 4To

 

L’excellent SSD Samsung 990 Pro de 4TO tombe à 261,24€ (prix barré 359,99€). C’est certainement ce qui se fait de mieux en terme de performance sur le marché.

Samsung 990 Pro

Stockage externe

 

Le SSD externe SanDisk Extreme de 2 To est au prix de 151,09€ (un prix jamais vu). Le boitier dispose de l’USB-C et peut atteindre jusqu’à 1000 Mo/s en lecture et écriture. Il est lui aussi résistant à la poussière et aux projections d’eau (IP65) !

Sandisk Extreme 2To

 

Le disque dur externe WD Elements de 20 To est à 376,05€, ce qui fait un prix de 18,80€/To… c’est un excellent tarif !!!

WD Elements

Objet connecté

La prise connectée EVE Energy (compatible Matter) passe à 29,99€. C’est une excellente prise connectée, respectueuse de la vie privée… oui, ça existe. Elle ne nécessite ni de cloud, ni d’inscription et tout fonctionne 100 % en local. Vous pouvez y aller les yeux fermés.

EVE Energy

Le détecteur de mouvement EVE Motion (compatible Matter) est à 34,99€. Il peut fonctionner à l’intérieur, comme à l’extérieur. Nous, on recommande !!! Lire notre test…

EVE Motion

 

 

La station météo Netatmo Intérieur/Extérieur est à 109,99€ (remise de 19%) ! C’est sans aucun doute l’un des meilleurs produits  de sa catégorie. L’application mobile évolue régulièrement.

Station météo Netatmo

 

Routeur

 

 

Le routeur de voyage WiFi 6 GLI.Net GL-MT3000 est à 76,99€ (prix conseillé 119,73€). Ce petit boitier est surpuissant et fonctionnera chez vous ou en déplacement. Nous, on adore. Lire notre test…

GLI.Net GL-MT3000

 

Comment profiter de ces offres ?

Pour profiter de ces promotions, il vous faut absolument un abonnement à Prime. L’adhésion est à 6,99€ par mois (ou 69,99€ par an). Aussi, vous pouvez profiter gratuitement avec 30 jours d’essai gratuit !

Profitez d’Amazon Prime gratuit pendant 30 jours

De plus, vous aurez des conditions avantageuses pour les livraisons et accès aux services suivants : Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Gaming, Prime Reading…

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