AIFFRO K100 SSD NAS Review – N100 Powered Flash NAS for Your Pocket?

AND ANOTHER SSD NAS has arrived on the market, this time from AIFFRO with their K100 4-Bay NVMe micro/pocket server. Nowadays, it seems like every brand and it’s subsidiary want to get in on ALL SSD NAS systems! The decreasing cost of SSDs, combined with the rising efficiency of server CPUs have all added up to a lot of brands appearing on the scene out of the East to introduce their new NAS system for Flash storage. Add to this the fact that many of them do not need to include an operating system, thanks to the rising use of the likes of UnRAID and TrueNAS, which means that they can be incredibly competitive with their pricing! But the last 12 months have been a massive spike in the development of NAS systems that have their hardware/brand routes in mini PC development. But where is the line? What sets a NAS system apart from a mini PC? Just the storage? The AIFFRO K100 blurs the lines considerably with it’s N100 CPU architecture, 4x 2280 M,2 SSD slots and 2.5GbE connectivity, arriving at $320. So, let’s review this new micro NAS, see how/if it differentiates itself well enough from a cheap mini PC and hopefully help you decide if the K100 deserves your data!

Where to Buy? Check Amazon for the Aiffro K100 NAS – HERE Similar 4-Bay NVMe NAS on AliExpress ($155)– CWWK x86 P5 NAS

Component	Details
Model	K100
Dimensions	117x112x34mm
Material	Aluminum alloy
CPU	Intel N100, 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache, peak clock speed of 3.40GHz
Video Engine Processor	Intel UHD Graphics 12th
Memory	LPDDR5 8GB 4800MHz (4x2GB LPDDR4 4800MHz Micron MT62F1G32D2DS)
Storage	4 x SSD (2280 M.2 PCIe Gen3x4, downgraded to 3×2)
I/O Ports	2 x USB 2.0, 2 x TYPE-C USB3.2 Gen2 Data Only 10G, 1 x TYPE-C DC, 1 x 2.5G RJ45 Realtek RTL8125, 1 x HDMI 1.4
Ethernet	Realtek RTL8125, 10/100/1000/2500 Mbps Ethernet
LED	1 x POWER LED (Power On: Green+Red, working: Green)
Adapter	Automatic Voltage adjustment between 100 and 240V AC, 50/60Hz, 65Watts PD (20V/3.25A), 1.5 meters long Type-C cable
Support System	CentOS/Euler/Ubuntu/Win11/FreeNAS/TrueNAS
Accessory	VESA Mount (optional)

AIFFRO K100 SSD NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The K100 4-Bay NVMe SSD NAS is arguably quite an average NAS system, but it stands out by being one of the very few compact NAS systems that arrives at under $300 with dedicated  m.2 NVMe support. There is no avoiding that very little has been done to separate it from being just a Mini PC that happens to have 4 storage slots – but at the same time, with complete NAS OS freedom, lower power consumption with USB power, good sustained performance internally (though peak performance is weak) and being genuinely pocket-sized, make this system an interesting NAS for those looking at a truly portable NAS. The single 2.5G slot is a pain though (i.e no failover and 250-279MB speed limit externally) and the fixed 8GB memory feels restrictive for TrueNAS users (let’s not even bring up ECC…), but as a first NAS from this brand on the market, it still brings competitive hardware pricing to the table. They just need to make more of a concerted effort to truly make this into a NAS system in the conventional sense. Definitely a brand to keep an eye on, but this is a system for hobbyists and homelabber’s who want something more capable than a raspberry Pi, but not for mission-critical data.

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AIFFRO K100 SSD NAS Review – Design

The K100 arrives in a predictably small, Mini PC-esque form. Given the scale of modern m.2 NVMe drives, even at the largest capacity, this system does not really need to be particularly large when focusing on this media. There is, of course, the balance between keeping things quiet and compact versus keeping things cool and smoothly running, but there are a decent number of design choices here that balance this point quite well.

The enclosure is metal on all sides. The base has ventilation holes on three of the four sides. The system features only a single internal active cooling fan that we will touch on later on, but it is all very discreet and the silver metallic finish is a nice touch.

Measuring at just a little under 12 cm by 11 cm by 4 cm, this is a tremendously small-scale NAS system that, thanks to its use of USB power delivery, means it is going to be extraordinarily low impact on your hardware environment when deploying. Likewise, weighing in at around half a kilo, it is going to be pretty easy to mount this device anywhere. The front of the system is quite nondescript and only features a single power button and no further connectivity. Given the preponderance of USB connections that we will touch on later, it would have been nice to have one of these ports front-mounted for convenient local backups or storage injection as needed.

The base of the system is a plastic panel with rubber feet that can be removed via four screws to access the internal storage bays. Overall, the design is very understated and, despite the more modest N100 architecture, the K100 still manages to be impressively small-scale.

The K100 feels very well-built and impressively put together. There is no avoiding that this chassis does look like a slightly modified Mini PC enclosure, but that is not necessarily a bad thing for those that want a service system that focuses exclusively on m.2 SSD storage. Let’s discuss the external connectivity of this device.

More so than the scale of this system, the ports and connectivity of the K100 bring back that slightly icky feeling that this is just a mini PC pretending to be a NAS. It’s not that the connections are bad, it’s just that in one very specific area an obvious feature of modern NAS is absent. But before we get to that, let’s keep things positive. The rear of the system is actually pretty densely packed with connections, and interestingly, the system even runs on a standard USB type-C power connection. You will need to deliver slightly more than your average USB-connected port, but I was able to run this system pretty well with my Sharky external battery pack and even a standard 36 W USB phone charger kept this system running. Obviously, it is recommended that you use the included PSU to run this system, but having USB type-C power certainly adds an element of flexibility once again to the deployment of this system.

Additionally, there are further USB type-C and USB type-A ports, with the former providing you with 10 GB performance with externally connected storage drives and the latter being a useful means to set up your KVM for direct access on this system with your visual output. Again, USB type-C is surprisingly rare on modern NAS devices and in this compact frame makes a lot of sense.

There are also dual HDMI outputs, which of course are going to be heavily dependent on the NAS operating system you use, but it’s still a useful thing to have here and they do output 4K at 60 frames per second. Alongside multimedia, these ports can also be used in conjunction with accessing the BIOS of the system easily to install the third-party NAS software that you want to use. So far I have tested TrueNAS Core and Unraid on this device, and both ran fine.

However, now it’s time to get a little down in the dumps and talk about the network connectivity on the K100. Despite the fact that this system supports four m.2 NVMe SSDs inside, and even arrives with a reasonably powerful, yet efficient N100 CPU, the K100 arrives with a single 2.5 GB Ethernet port. That means that all data transmissions outside of this device are going to be bottlenecked to around 250 to 270 MB per second. Although the tiniest bit of me wants to give them the benefit of the doubt and at least highlight that it is not standard boring 1GBE, there is no avoiding that alongside this port, ensuring a huge bottleneck of the performance that this system could reach, the lack of any option towards failover, link aggregation, and easy SMB multi-channel for Windows users is simply going to be impossible here.

Clearly, they have opted to prioritize m.2 NVMe storage inside this system, even going as far as to ensure that each slot has 2000 MB per second bandwidth afforded to it for those SSDs (more on that later), but a single Ethernet port of this calibre is just not going to be enough for most users who are choosing to invest a few extra dollars in SSD media over that of hard drives. Hell, even if this system was running on traditional 3.5-inch hard drives in SATA and not m.2 NVMe drives, it would still massively oversaturate a single 2.5 G NIC.

Now, it isn’t quite the end of the road in terms of network connectivity. There isn’t any kind of PCIe upgradeability present here, nor is there any external PCIe support via something like OCuLink, but depending on the NAS operating system you choose to use, there is perhaps the option to take advantage of USB to network adapters. In 2024, there are plenty of $15-20 USB to 2.5 G network adapters on the market, and even a few $60 5GBE USB adapters supported here. This does mean that you will have to spend a little more, and that you stand to lose more of those 10G USB ports, but at the very least you can still potentially add further network adapters to this system. It’s just a damn shame that you have to spend extra to do it and potentially lose out on some of your expandability.

Overall the network connectivity on this device is….fine, I guess. It certainly is not going to blow you away and it is all pretty much standard. I expect this kind of thing at this price point. Anyway, the obvious bottleneck that these ports and connections are going to serve to the potential RAID performance of those internal drives is going to be a bitter pill to swallow for some users and possibly may serve as a deal-breaker for them to look elsewhere for a NAS. But how does all of this external hardware impact or profit by the internal hardware? Let’s open this up and discuss what’s inside the K100 NAS.

Internal hardware

The base panel of the system is removed by finding four screws located under each of the rubber feet on the base of the system. Doing so exposes an internal metal dissipation plate that lives just above each of the individual m.2 slots, serving as additional heat dissipation for the SSDs during peak use in order to prevent throttling due to high temperatures.

Removing this further panel with four more screws reveals all four of the internal m.2 NVMe slots. Each one is 2280 in length, and if you purchased a device pre-populated, Bay one will be already occupied with a relatively little-known SSD branded drive. Additionally, my review unit arrived with Windows 11 pre-installed on this drive. I’m not too sure if this is what every user who purchases the K100 will receive, or this is something that perhaps a previous reviewer added during their evaluation, but I think the majority of users are probably going to wipe this drive very early in favor of more NAS-focused software shortly after.

It’s also worth highlighting that when I dug into the BIOS of this system, I was able to find out that although the hardware architecture for each of these slots is PCIe Gen 3*4, each slot has been downgraded to times 2 speed. This is something that was added to minimize SSD temperature during operation. This still means that each SSD inside, if you use Gen. 3*4 SSDs, will still be afforded somewhere in the region of 2,000 MB per second bandwidth each.

The N100 CPU that we’ll talk about in a moment is not the most powerful processor on the market, trying instead to find a better balance between performance and power consumption efficiency, so even though each of these SSDs has been afforded 2,000 MB per second of bandwidth, I very much doubt that we’re going to see this system break any records in terms of performance.

Removing this panel then exposes the internal CPU and memory configuration of the K100. This processor arrives with its own small laptop-style cooling fan and, despite its small stature, has become remarkably popular in consumer-grade NAS devices in recent years. The Intel N100 is a quad-core x86 CPU that, although has a very low base clock speed, can be boosted impressively all the way up to 3.4 GHz when needed.

With a TDP-reported power rating of just 6 W and even arriving with a moderate level of integrated graphics, there is a lot to like about this CPU choice.

I have already tested numerous systems with this processor from CWWK, Topton, and Aooster, and on every occasion, this processor architecture did not disappoint in things like 4K Plex media server, container deployment, speedy backups, and multi-user/multi-application simultaneous usage. However, on the subject of memory, things differ ever so slightly with this modest CPU also diminishing the scope for memory allocation + features.

The K100 arrives with 8GB of DDR5 memory at 4800 MHz. For a base level amount of memory on any affordable NAS system, this isn’t too bad. It’s only when you move beyond this that things become problematic. For a start, this memory is provided via four times 2GB pre-soldered memory flash cells attached to the internal PCB. There is no means to upgrade the base of your memory beyond this and therefore running services such as TrueNAS are going to be a little bit more stringent when it comes to the beefier ZFS and inline services that it includes. Additionally, this processor does not support ECC memory and therefore there will be some experienced flash server users who are going to feel less secure in this faster storage media being supported by non-ECC memory – fearing occasional data inconsistencies occurring over time.

Realistically, adding the necessary architecture to equip this system with ECC RAM would have meant changing the CPU for something a little bit more expensive and swapping out the available memory for more expensive ECC modules, so I completely understand why they opted for keeping things more simple and affordable on this smaller system for that target audience seeking entry-level SSD NAS. Nevertheless, the more modest foundations of this system are definitely going to impact overall performance. Some users are obviously going to highlight that performance was already somewhat limited by that 2.5 GBE solo port, but this CPU and memory architecture is definitely going to impact internal performance too. That is possible from those four M.2 SSDs.

AIFFRO K100 SSD NAS Review – Software and Performance

As this system runs on the fantastically modest yet capable Intel N100 (x86 Architecture, 4 Core, 4 thread, 3.6Ghz peak when needed, int.GFX), as well as running on M.2 NVMe SSD Storage, it was always going to be interesting to see what the system power consumption was going to be. When the system was at idle (i.e on, but M.2s not being accessed for 15 mins, system in a ready state, but not processing), the K100 was erring around the 10W mark – perfectly acceptable.

At peak, with all 4 SSDs being accessed and the CPU at 40-50% use, the K100 increased its power consumption up to 16W and eventually peaked at 18W (when the CPU use and SSD use was 75% and above). Again, very respectable numbers for a 4 bay NVMe SSD Flash NAS system.

Next, we can discuss noise. Many new/old NAS users (DiY or turnkey) are moving towards SSD use in their systems primarily for decreased operational noise (and, of course, the massive speed and latency benefits). Now, upon initial boot up, the AIFFRO K100’s fan spun up to maximum speed for 15 seconds, then spun down to a much quieter idle. Initially the K100 (running UnRAID on this occasion) was around the 21-23dB mark in terms of noise, but that was when the SSDs were not mounted in the storage manager. As soon as they were mounted and even vague access was made to them, the fan spun up some more (almost preemptively preparing for heat) and the system sat at around 25-27dB noise levels. Again, not to bad, and the noise would definitely be lost in a broader office ambient environment.

Heavy access however was a different story! Despite these M.2 NVMe drive being Gen 3×2 speed, the system still spun the fan up quickly to maximum and the K100 was hitting 36-38db. Upon the completion of ‘heavy access’, the system took almost 10 mins to naturally reduce it’s fan RPM and lower it’s ambient noise. It’s still a very quiet NAS, but the fan cooling seemed to be remarkably sensitive for an N100 NAS of this scale, especially when you factor in the pre-installed internal dissipation plate and padding on the drives.

Next, we need to discuss internal performance, and unfortunately, this is where we see the shortcomings of the N100 processor when dealing with flash NVMe storage hit a hurdle or two! If people are thinking about an NVMe SSD NAS system, they are already thinking about performance in the gigabytes, not the megabytes. Unfortunately, as each M.2 NVMe is 3×2, you already have a 2000MB/s bandwidth limit on each drive already. Then it became clear in testing that these 4 M.2 are seemingly sharing some internal PCIe paths and the N100 just didn’t have the umpf to keep things moving, as initial SSD Read testing (repeated 1GB file creation) sat around the 580-600MB/s mark. When we have seen similarly powered NVMe systems to this from established NAS brands (the QNAP TBS-464 or Asustor Flashstor 6, which both ran on an Intel N5105 Celeron), we have regularly seen these SSDs only hit around 750MB/s each – so I never expected the K100 to fully saturate PCIe 3×2 – but these numbers below are only a pinch above that of SATA SSD.

On a positive note, the write performance was at least largely equal to that of Read (at 590-600MB/s), which further indicated that there was an bottleneck happening internally. I would add that this performance WAS sustained in both Read and Write – which at least would mean that operations on the K100 would be very smooth and responsive. Just that the peak performance of the M.2 NVMes inside is going to be somewhat limited.

Then, the final blow! Copying data from one M.2 NVMe SSD to another clearly indicated that bottleneck, with the average 1GB file creation speed (looped) at 270-290MB/s on average – so, effectively half of what we have seen and therefore the paths were being fought over across the SSDs and sharing out the 600MB/s or so we have seen till now.

I think, at a hardware production level, there would have been an argument to play with PCIe bifurcation here and limit these M.2 NVMes to 3×1, and use some of that extra afforded resources to introduce more bays and/or improvements in the K100 NICs. Sadly, whether this was a hardware limitation, or simply that this would deviate further from the mini PC architecture (and therefore cost more in development and production), its not present here. The K100 performance feels very average, but I have to give it credit for being solid sustained performance, as well as low power consumption and largely low system noise for the majority of the testing.

AIFFRO K100 SSD NAS Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The K100 4-Bay NVMe SSD NAS is arguably quite an average NAS system, but it stands out by being one of the very few compact NAS systems that arrives at under $300 with dedicated  m.2 NVMe support. There is no avoiding that very little has been done to separate it from being just a Mini PC that happens to have 4 storage slots – but at the same time, with complete NAS OS freedom, lower power consumption with USB power, good sustained performance internally (though peak performance is weak) and being genuinely pocket-sized, make this system an interesting NAS for those looking at a truly portable NAS. The single 2.5G slot is a pain though (i.e no failover and 250-279MB speed limit externally) and the fixed 8GB memory feels restrictive for TrueNAS users (let’s not even bring up ECC…), but as a first NAS from this brand on the market, it still brings competitive hardware pricing to the table. They just need to make more of a concerted effort to truly make this into a NAS system in the conventional sense. Definitely a brand to keep an eye on, but this is a system for hobbyists and homelabber’s who want something more capable than a raspberry Pi, but not for mission-critical data.

PROS of the K100 Flash NAS	CONs of the K100 Flash NAS
Insanely Compact 4 M.2 2280 SSDs at this scale are incredibly impressive USB-C Power is oddly rare these days! The N100 CPU is tremendously energy efficient Low noise levels Plenty of passive cooling Pre-populated storage options Complete NAS OS’ freedom Very affordable at $320 for a NVMe Flash 4x Bay system	N100 has it’s limitations in scalability A single LAN Port is a PAIN Fixed 8GB memory, and no ECC (not a big surprise) Similar architecture NAS available for less in the market (example, the CWWK x86 P5 at $155, same CPU and 4 Bays)

Where to Buy? Check Amazon for the Aiffro K100 NAS – HERE Similar 4-Bay NVMe NAS on AliExpress ($155)– CWWK x86 P5 NAS

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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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Jonsbo Reveals New N5 NAS Case at Computex 2024

Jonsbo, a well-known manufacturer of PC cases and cooling solutions, unveiled its new N5 NAS case at the Computex 2024 event. The announcement took place at the company’s stand, where the latest addition to their product line was showcased to attendees.

The Jonsbo N5 NAS case is designed to cater to users who require extensive storage options. It supports a combination of 2.5″ SSDs and 3.5″ HDDs, allowing for up to 12 drives in various configurations. The drive bay can hold 2.5″ SSD x2 / 3.5″ HDD x12 or 2.5″ SSD x4 / 3.5″ HDD x12, providing flexibility depending on the user’s storage needs.

In terms of dimensions, the N5 measures 355mm in width, 403mm in depth, and 350mm in height. This size accommodates a range of motherboard form factors, including ITX, M-ATX, ATX, and E-ATX, making it a versatile option for various build requirements.

The case features extensive cooling options with vent panels on all sides to ensure adequate airflow. The design includes support for SFX power supplies, with the exact size to be confirmed. This is aimed at maintaining efficient power management within a compact form factor.

For users with high-performance components, the N5 supports video cards up to 350mm in length and CPU coolers up to 160mm in height. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of graphics cards and cooling solutions available in the market.

The front I/O port configuration includes a Type-C port and a USB 3.0 port, along with support for audio and mic input. This setup aims to provide easy access to frequently used ports and connectivity options.

Material-wise, the N5 is constructed with a 2.0mm aluminum alloy external cover and a 1.0mm steel internal structure. This combination of materials offers durability while maintaining a sleek and modern aesthetic.

One of the notable features of the N5 is its wooden removable (mesh vented) HDD bay cover panel. This not only adds to the visual appeal of the case but also enhances ventilation for the drives.

The case also includes 12 LEDs, adding a lighting element that can be customized according to the user’s preference. The LEDs are strategically placed to highlight the internal components without being overly intrusive. Another nice touch (and a criticism leveled at the N4 previously for skipping over a little, is that all 12 SATA connections directly go into combined SATA power+data ports on their own backplanes! 

When compared to the Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4, the N5 offers the highest number of drive bays and expansion slots. The N2 supports up to 5 HDDs, the N3 up to 8 HDDs, and the N4 up to 6 HDDs, making the N5 a superior choice for users with extensive storage needs.

Attribute	Jonsbo N2	Jonsbo N3	Jonsbo N4	Jonsbo N5
Model	N2 Black	N3 Black	N4 Black	N5
Dimensions	222.5mm(W) * 222.5mm(D) * 224mm(H)	233mm(W) * 262mm(D) * 298mm(H)	286mm(W) * 300mm(D) * 228mm(H)	355mm(W) * 403mm(D) * 350mm(H)
Material	2.0mm Aluminum alloy; 1mm Steel	2.0mm Aluminum alloy; 1mm Steel	0.7mm Steel + Wood	2.0mm Aluminum alloy; 1mm Steel
Drive Bay	2.5″ SSD1 / 3.5″ HDD5	2.5″ SSD1 / 3.5″ HDD8	2.5″ SSD2 / 3.5″ HDD6	2.5″ SSD2 / 3.5″ HDD12 or 2.5″ SSD4 / 3.5″ HDD12
Motherboard Compatibility	ITX	ITX	ITX / M-ATX	ITX / M-ATX / ATX / E-ATX
PCI Expansion Slot	1 x Low profile single slot	2	4	8
Front I/O Port	1*USB3.0 / USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C / Audio+Mic	1*USB3.0 / USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C / Audio+Mic	Type-C1 / USB3.01	Type-C1 / USB3.01
PSU Support	SFX ≤ 150mm	SFX ≤ 105mm	SFX ≤ 125mm	SFX (TBC size)
Max. CPU Cooler Height	≤ 65mm	≤ 130mm	≤ 70mm	160mm
Max. Display Card Length	≤ 197mm (Low profile)	≤ 250mm	≤ 230mm	325-350mm
Cooling System	12015mm fan*1 (built-in)	10025mm2 (optional), 8025mm2 (optional)	120mm*1 (built-in)	Vent Panels on all sides
Weight	Net 2.9kg	Net 3.9kg	3.75kg	Weight not specified

The N5 also surpasses the other models in terms of PCI expansion slots, offering 8 compared to the N2’s single slot, the N3’s 2 slots, and the N4’s 4 slots. This makes it a more suitable option for users requiring additional expansion capabilities.

Overall, the Jonsbo N5 stands out with its higher capacity and versatile design, offering more extensive support for components and storage compared to the N2, N3, and N4 models. This makes it a strong contender for users looking to build a high-performance NAS system.

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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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CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – SUPER COMPACT NVMe NAS?

Have you noticed just how diverse the world of DiY NAS has become? I’m old enough to remember when ‘Do It Yourself’ or Build Your Own’ (BYO) in the server world would mean converting an old PC case. Then things got SMALLER! The Rasperry Pi, the Mini PC and eventually we started to see consumer and hobbiest kit in NAS that was smaller than most domestic appliances and client hardware! But there has always been a trade-off with minimalization. Maybe it’s CPU power, CPU architecture, maximum memory or just plane old storage potential. This is where the CWWK x86 P5 steps into things. Build as a 64bit x86 alternative to Raspberry Pi devices, this architecture is not exactly new. Indeed, there are a slew of DiY/Open-Source ready Routers on the market built towards Pfsense and the like for years now, so what makes the CWWK x86 P5 something different? Well, it’s because this device shifts gears from being primarily about network management, and towards NVMe SSD Flash-based SSD storage. Running on an Intel N100 4-Core processor (N200 and N305 versions also available) that is rated at just 6W, the P5 supports up to 32GB of DDR5 memory and FOUR M.2 Gen3 SSD slots and 2 SATA drive connections (more eon that later). This all adds up towards a fantastically low power-consuming but highly capable system! Built with those with a DiY attitude, the system is a semi-bare board that is just ready to be scaled up and built into your next custom server setup with the likes of UnRAID and TrueNAS. But, is the P5 actually any good? Let’s discuss it in today’s hardware review.

Component	Details
Brand	CWWK
Model	x86 P5
Processor	Intel N100
Clock Speed	Base: 800Mhz – to 3.6Ghz
Memory	DDR4 SO-DIMM slot, up to 32GB 4800Mhz
Storage SATA	2x SATA-to-12pin
M.2 Slots	4 x M.2 NVMe slot
Network Interface	2 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
USB Ports	2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10G)
Display Outputs	2X HDMI 4K 60FPS
Power Supply	12V DC input
Operating System	Supports Windows 10/11, Linux distributions, and FreeNAS/TrueNAS
Additional Features	Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 for data redundancy and performance, OS Dependant
Cooling	Passive heatsink, supports additional fan VIA INCLUDED KIT
BIOS	UEFI
Audio	Realtek ALC662 5.1-channel audio codec
Accessories	SATA cables, power adapter, user manual

 

Where to Buy? CWWK x86 P5 NVMe NAS Board ($155 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 Barebones + Case ($239 Amazon) – HERE

CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

It is INCREDIBLY difficult to find fault with the CWWK x86 P5 NVMe SSD NAS Board when you boil it down to the $150 price tag. The P5 is by no means a perfect device and it is insanely niche in its appeal to DiY homelabbers and those looking for a new ‘plaything’ SSD server, but for what you are getting here for the money (up to and including the PSU, fan kits and SATA-to-12pin cables) just kinda dissolves any of the shortcomings of the device, as it seems obvious that at this value, compromises need to be made. With the diminishing cost of M.2 NVMe SSD storage and the growing market for affordable M.2 SSD NAS solutions in the market, the P5 is a great first choice for those looking to dip their toe into private server ownership without breaking the bank. The base level hardware of the N100/N200/N305 processor, 4x Gen 3 m.2, 2×2.5GbE and ability to still add 2x SATA drives is a great foundation, especially when you look into the lower power consumption of this hardware too. There will be those that will complain about the base model not including memory, but at this price point CWWK would have had to opt for fixed flash memory, which would have been overall limited long term – so better to give a flexible SODIMM to scale up to 32GB at your own choice/budget. The performance of the P5 is not exactly going to blow you away of course, and I would definitely recommend investing in a little more active/passive cooling if you plan on running this 24×7, but overall for the $150, this is an absolute BARGAIN!!!

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CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – Design & Hardware

Despite the marketing materials for the x86 P5 heavy highlighting how the device is ‘barebones’ and ‘a NAS Board’, I think they are doing themselves something of a disservice here. It’s ALOT more complete than a lot of the NAS enthusiasts have been offered in recent years. It arrives with the CPU already in place, already fitted to an huge heat sink, it includes an external PSU, SATA-to-12 pin cables and even a fan mounting and desk kit. There is no included memory or storage in the base model (though there are options listed on their site) and you are definitely going to want to buy heatsinks for those m.2s (more on that later), but as a ‘barebones’ purchase, it’s pretty insanely good value at a little over $150.

The included mounting fans ARE optional and if you only plan on low-moderate daily use, you may not even need theM, but I am nonetheless impressed that these are included when many other brand would have put these are optional extras. The retail kit is pretty well protected, 2 layers of foam, a cardboard frame internally, accessories in their own bags and the unit itself is in a robust antistatic bag.

Right now, the only alternative product to this in the market of a similar 1 board architecture would be the likes of the Zimaboard/Zimablade from IceWhale. A a quick ‘aside’ the video below outlines that product, what was good and what was not:

The top mounted metallic heatsink is HUGE and it pretty much exclusively there to draw heat from the Intel N100/N200/N305 CPU, as the SSDs are mounted on a sister/riser board (more on that later). There is no active cooling by default (though you have those fan mounting kits included) but this heatsink is pretty great for the N100/N200, though I do wonder about the 8-Core N305-i3 model at peak use.

The device does not feature any included NAS Operating system (no OS drive included in the $150 option), but running TrueNAS r UnRAID was incredibly straight forward and I can confirm that all storage (both the M.2 and the SATA over 12pin) were visible in both of those popular NAS OS. However, it is worth mentioning once again that heatsinks or even just heatshields for those M.2 NVMe SSD bays are pretty essential if you are aiming for sustained use. I had the device running for 30 mins of relatively light tests on each drive and, even after a brief reboot to recalibrate, all four drives were throwing me 65-70+ degree warnings in UnRAID pretty quickly.

When looking a little more about the default configurations, you can see that CWWK have not missed a trick! With scaled memory versions all the way up to 32GB and fully populated SSD options on the table. I am unsure which brands of SSD or Memory you would receive, but given my experience with reviewing solutions like this, I would expect Samsung Memory, but unbranded/lesser-known SSD drives. You will pay penny’s for them, but their durability and reliability is up for question! It’s your call!

Another small grip is regarding the external PSU. On the one side, it’s a decent quality 36W PSU that has international clip replacement – and these clips are like 4 for a $1 on Aliexpress, so you will have easy global connection for  this device with ease. Plus USB to Barrel adapters are pretty common too these days, so the option to deploy the P5 with a USB power connection is pretty easy to do too (see my video here on how to run a consumer NAS on a USB Battery Pack on YouTube). Running on a 6W TDP rated CPU and 4 M.2 massively reduces the potential power consumption, so all good so far, right?

HOWEVER! It is 2024… why is this device not arriving with USB-C Power? It would be so, so much more convenient and there are plenty of affordable/domestic USB-C PSU devices in the market that would allow for further eWaste!

Next, lets discuss the means to attached two SATA drives to the system. Adding SATA support to such a microboard with a CPU that only has 8/9 PCI Lanes to play with was always going to be tough! Adding a physical SATA-to-PCIe controller would have been the easiest way, but might not have been the most efficient. Instead (again, drawing comparisons to the ZimaBlade and ZimaBoard) the P5 has two 12 pin connectors and includes 2x SATA-to-12pin cables for attaching two drives.

I can also confirm that when I connected a SATA SSD, it appeared without any additional power needed (it was delivered to the dual SATA POWER + DATA cable). I do have questions about the extent to which it would power something beefier (a 24TB HDD for example), but I did not have these in place in time for this review – I will be returning to this later in a follow-up video on the YouTube Channel soon.

The four M.2 NVMe SSD slots are located on the other side of the P5 device and its a very clean layout. Supporting up to 2280 length M.2 NVMe SSDs, there are no thermal pads or heatsinks included with the CWWK x86 P5 NAS kit.

Each M.2 connector has moderate clearance from the base PCB and appear to be PCIe 3×4 (going by the board print), however, there are mixed messages on different sites listing the CWWK P5, with some stating Gen 3×2, or 3×1 on the SSD slots and others saying 3×4.

Digging into the terminal, we can see that although they ARE physically 3×4, they have been downgraded to 3X1. Not a massive surprise for this architecture – for reasons of efficient resource distribution, lane distribution and/or heat. But A little closer look physically at the device under the M.2 PCB shows a little something…

The M.2 Board seems to be fed into a separate pinned m.2 2280 board that, in turn, is connected into a m.2 located on the CPU/Memory PCB.

Unscrewing the M.2 PCB reveals that it sits on this sister 2280 m.2 board (not unlike a M.2 to SATA-MULTI-PORT card. This is an interesting approach and would definitely make the 3×1 on each m.2 slot a lot understandable when you know that the base M.2 is handling them all.

This adapter is definitely a custom-specific board for this system, to allow it to add to the initial board design (which is often used in those custom pfsense ready routers/gateway devices from CWWK and topton).

And the m.2 allocation does not stop there. Under THAT card there was a further small scale m.2 for a WiFi adapter card. I am surprised that CWWK did not include an Intel WiFi 6/6e adapter in their bundles (these are crazy cheap). That said, this would also mean that you would have to factor in the antenna – and things are already pretty crammed in here!

Unscrewing this board further reveals the CPU and top massive ehatsink connection. One detail it would have been easy to miss is that the massive heatsink has a small copper panel directly on the CPU (with thermal paste). This is a nice extra touch and one that most users will likely never even know about, adding heat conduction and dissipation.

I also wanted to highlight that another small detail that it would be easy for users to never notice is that the heatsink has been cut to ensure it has clearance for several conductor components, as to ensure they are not negatively impacted by the heatsink. It’s a very, very small detail, but does show that a decent degree of thought has gone into this plate and it’s specifically designed for this micro board layout.

The N100/N200/N305 CPU you find under this panel will differ in cores, threads, power and TDP, but all three are SoC/Mobile processors that are designed to run tremendously efficiently – which in a 24×7 NAS setup is pretty bloody important, especially with rising costs of electricity globally in 2024.

With the system fully populated with 4x M.2 NVMe SSDs, 1x SATA 2,5″ SSD, an 8GB DDR5 4800Mhz memory SODIMM module and the CPU at 50% utilization for 20 minutes, the CPU peaked at 22-23W. This is a pretty impressively low, even if we factor in that this is an exclusively SSD-focused system in my test. In idle, without the SSDs being access, this dropped to a little over 10W

One thing that might annoy a few of the SSD NAS veteran users is the lack of ECC memory on the P5. This is going to be a massive debating point for many, but given the $150 pricetag and it’s a large focus on keeping things compact and efficient, it’s not a huge surprise that CWWK has opted for a much more affordable and low energy-consuming CPU – which unsurprisingly does not support ECC. This is NOT a system built for ‘integral business data’ and that is not the target user either. Maybe if CWWK extend this system architecture and logic towards some of the AMD emb.Ryzen processors, then ECC might arrive, but for now you can install up to 1x 32GB DDR 4800Mhz SODIMM module in the P5.

Given the scale and price point, you cannot really fault the CWWK x86 P5 – as a more powerful alternative to a raspberry pi, that also has tremendous M.2 NVMe SSD NAS storage and SATA scalability, there is simply nothing out there for this price point! The lack of ECC is going to put some users off and the 3×1 lanes per SSD might be too limiting of some, but at $150+, it’s a hard case to make! Let’s discuss the ports and connections.

CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – Ports and Connections

Give the scale of the CWWK x86 P5, you will not be surprised to know that there are not exactly a tonne of ports on show here. That said, they still do manage to squeeze in a decent amount, though there is no means to scale things up (beyond a USB hub or USB NIC), as there is no PCIe slot accessible (as you might find in the Zimaboard and Zimablade). In terms of network interfaces, there are two 2.5GbE network ports, as well as (depending on the NAS OS you choose to install) the option to attach USB-to-2.5G and USB-to-5GbE network adapters.

There are also two HDMI 4K 60FPS outputs (no DP) which will have a varied degree of utility, based on your NAS OS of choice.

As the system uses an external power button, there is a physical LED power button too. As the P5 is a modification of the hardware logic of the custom pfsense/router scene, this button is in a fixed location and not really movable with ease. This will make custom micro case installations a little troublesome.

The system does come with extendable ‘legs’ that allow you to stand the P5 on a desk horizontally, with the M.2 SSDs at the top, case-free. I cannot help by feel like this design, though not great, is still the best option of plenty of bad ones!

You could mount the device on a cage, attaching SATA drives into the SATA cage cavities, but this all still feels very ‘coffee cup’ dangerous! As an ‘add on’ module to an existing encased homelab, I like this, but as a standalone system, I wish it afforded a little more protection out of the box (optional plastic/metal casing included with the kit for like $5 more). Let’s discuss the architecture of the x86 P5.

CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – PCIe Layout / Performance

When it came to checking out the bios (this is a great deal clearer in the video review) CWWK have pretty much opened everything up to customization, with little ‘hard’ pre-set in place. For a system destined for massively diverse 3rd party installation use, I respect this greatly!

In terms of performance, those SSDs on Gen 3×1 lanes each became pretty clear (also, add to that the efficiency-focused N100 Processor in this review unit). I was hitting around 784MBs read performance on repeated/sustained 1GB tests on a single drive, and hit 1.3-1.4GB/s on the 4 drives in a RAID 5 array. Obviously, this was internal performance, as by default you cannot exceed 550-579MB/s on 2×2.5GbE (maybe with a couple of USB-to-5G adapters at $70-90 a pop, you might get closer).

However, write performance was much more disappointing and quickly diminishing, starting at around the 600MB/s and heading down as low as 250-300MB/s upon sustained 1GB write tests (see below). The SATA connected SSD comfortably hit 470MB/s Read over 425MB/s Write on avg.

However, probably the most damning performance number was when I actioned 1GB of data to be copied between single-disks. This would rarely exceed 150MB/s and after a couple of minutes descended into double digits! How much of this was caused by oversaturation on those 4 M2 Gen3x1 drives having to be negotiated by that m.2 mounted sister board is hard to say. The CPU worked VERY hard during this comparatively modest procedure and the drive temps crept up very fast!

All this added up to the fact that the x86 P5, though very good at short-term use and sporadic activity with ease, it struggled under heavy sustained write actions. Also, the shortfalls of feeding those 4 M.2 SSDs into a single into a single adapter bring into question how a larger RAID array on them would perform over a great deal of time and/or a RAID rebuild. Not ‘bad’, but it definitely demonstrated one of the compromises in architecture that needed to be made to hit the $150 price tag.

CWWK x86 P5 NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

It is INCREDIBLY difficult to find fault with the CWWK x86 P5 NVMe SSD NAS Board when you boil it down to the $150 price tag. The P5 is by no means a perfect device and it is insanely niche in its appeal to DiY homelabbers and those looking for a new ‘plaything’ SSD server, but for what you are getting here for the money (up to and including the PSU, fan kits and SATA-to-12pin cables) just kinda dissolves any of the shortcomings of the device, as it seems obvious that at this value, compromises need to be made. With the diminishing cost of M.2 NVMe SSD storage and the growing market for affordable M.2 SSD NAS solutions in the market, the P5 is a great first choice for those looking to dip their toe into private server ownership without breaking the bank. The base level hardware of the N100/N200/N305 processor, 4x Gen 3 m.2, 2×2.5GbE and ability to still add 2x SATA drives is a great foundation, especially when you look into the lower power consumption of this hardware too. There will be those that will complain about the base model not including memory, but at this price point CWWK would have had to opt for fixed flash memory, which would have been overall limited long term – so better to give a flexible SODIMM to scale up to 32GB at your own choice/budget. The performance of the P5 is not exactly going to blow you away of course, and I would definitely recommend investing in a little more active/passive cooling if you plan on running this 24×7, but overall for the $150, this is an absolute BARGAIN!!!

PROS of the CWWK x86 P5

CONs of the CWWK x86 P5

Cannot argue with the price 4x M.2 NVMe is impressive for scale The N100/N200/N300 Balance power, ability and consumption very well scalability of memory up to 32GB TWIN 2.5GbE and ability to add 2x more 2.5G/5G with adapters (OS Dependant) Kit includes PSU and Fan kit Complete in-house design = well-made heatsink with hidden details Two SATA drives can be connected, which can be overlooked easily WiFi M.2 Adapter slot Included

Lack of USB-C Power Gets HOT SSD Write performance and Drive-to-Drive copying has poor sustained numbers!

Where to Buy? CWWK x86 P5 NVMe NAS Board ($155 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 Barebones + Case ($239 Amazon) – HERE

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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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QNAP TS-464 NAS – A Comprehensive Review Two Years Post-Launch

Even after two years since its introduction, the QNAP TS-464 NAS continues to hold its ground as one of the most lauded offerings in QNAP’s extensive lineup. Esteemed for its adept balance of hardware efficiency and cost-effectiveness, this model has etched its name among the top contenders in the NAS market. As we delve into this device once more in 2024, our aim is to provide a examination of its performance, features, and potential considerations for prospective buyers – Does it still stack up well in 2024, with new brands and products entering the market?

Note – Full Review of the QNAP TS-464 NAS on YouTube HERE , and the long form written Review HERE

Physical Design and Hardware Efficiency: A Fusion of Compactness and Performance

The TS-464 makes a lasting impression with its compact and efficient design, catering to environments where space is at a premium. Powered by either an Intel N5105 or N5095 processor, renowned for their remarkable blend of low power consumption and robust performance, this NAS stands as a testament to efficiency and power.

With options ranging from 4 to 8 GB of DDR4 memory and support for up to four hard drive bays, users are afforded ample storage capacity without sacrificing on footprint.

Noteworthy is its energy-efficient operation, boasting a CPU with a thermal design power (TDP) between 10 to 15 watts, ensuring minimal disruption to home or office settings.

Expansion Capabilities: Embracing Versatility

The TS-464 shines in its expandability, offering multiple M.2 NVMe SSD slots and a PCIe slot for additional enhancements. Empowering users to integrate 10 GbE network cards, NVMe storage solutions, or even Wi-Fi cards, this NAS epitomizes adaptability to evolving needs.

Furthermore, the inclusion of USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports facilitates high-speed connectivity to external storage devices and peripherals, enhancing its versatility and usability across diverse applications.

Performance as a Plex Media Server: A Reliable Entertainment Hub

Among its many strengths, the TS-464 excels as a Plex media server, leveraging efficient hardware transcoding capabilities. Capable of seamlessly handling multiple simultaneous 4K video streams, this NAS offers unparalleled value for media enthusiasts. Despite the availability of more powerful alternatives, the TS-464’s exceptional cost-to-performance ratio remains a compelling choice for users seeking a dependable home media server solution.

Broad Compatibility: A Testament to Freedom of Choice

The TS-464 stands out for its broad compatibility with an extensive range of storage media from various manufacturers. This inclusivity empowers users to select from a diverse array of hard drives and SSDs, including enterprise-grade options, without being confined to proprietary solutions.

At a time when some NAS manufacturers prioritize proprietary compatibility, the TS-464’s expansive support for third-party storage drives underscores its commitment to user freedom and flexibility.

Fixed Memory and Software Challenges: Areas for Growth and Enhancement

Recent developments, such as the transition to fixed memory configurations in newer TS-464 models, pose potential limitations for users seeking memory upgrades. While this shift aligns with industry trends towards cost and power efficiency, it may present challenges for users accustomed to the flexibility of upgradable memory configurations. Additionally, criticisms surrounding the QNAP QTS operating system persist, with users citing inconsistencies and complexities in the user interface. Despite ongoing efforts to refine the user experience, software-related challenges continue to warrant attention and improvement.

Security and Future Prospects: Navigating Challenges and Building Trust

Security remains a focal point for QNAP, with efforts to address vulnerabilities and bolster overall security measures. While strides have been made in software updates and security advisories, challenges persist in rebuilding trust and confidence among users. As newer, more efficient CPU options emerge, questions linger regarding potential hardware upgrades in future iterations of the TS-464. However, concrete plans from QNAP regarding hardware refresh cycles remain elusive, leaving room for speculation and anticipation among users.

Category	Specification
CPU	Intel® Celeron® N5095 4-core/4-thread processor, burst up to 2.9 GHz
CPU Architecture	64-bit x86
Graphic Processors	Intel® UHD Graphics
Floating Point Unit	–
Encryption Engine	AES-NI
Hardware-accelerated Transcoding	–
System Memory	8 GB RAM
Maximum Memory	8 GB
Flash Memory	4GB (Dual boot OS protection)
Drive Bay	4 x 3.5-inch SATA 6Gb/s
Drive Compatibility	3.5-inch SATA hard disk drives, 2.5-inch SATA solid state drives
Hot-swappable	Yes
M.2 Slot	2 x M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 3 x1
SSD Cache Acceleration Support	–
2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port (2.5G/1G/100M)	2 (2.5G/1G/100M/10M)
5 Gigabit Ethernet Port (5G/2.5G/1G/100M)	Optional via PCIe expansion card
10 Gigabit Ethernet Port	Optional via PCIe expansion card
Wake on LAN (WOL)	–
Jumbo Frame	–
PCIe Slot	1
USB 2.0 port	2
USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) Port	2 x Type-A
IR Sensor	Optional QNAP RM-IR004 remote control
HDMI Output	1, HDMI 2.1 (up to 4096 x 2160 @ 60Hz)
Form Factor	Tower
LED Indicators	Power/Status, LAN, USB, HDD1-4
Buttons	Power, USB copy, Reset
Dimensions (HxWxD)	165 × 170 × 226.5 mm
Weight (Net)	2.26 kg
Weight (Gross)	3.59 kg
Operating Temperature	0 – 40 °C (32°F – 104°F)
Storage Temperature	-20 – 70°C (-4°F – 158°F)
Relative Humidity	5-95% RH non-condensing, wet bulb: 27˚C (80.6˚F)
Power Supply Unit	90W adapter, 100-240V
Power Consumption: HDD Sleep Mode	21.618 W
Power Consumption: Operating Mode, Typical	40.536 W
Fan	1 x 120mm, 12VDC
System Warning	Buzzer
Kensington Security Slot	–
Standard Warranty	3 years
Max. Number of Concurrent Connections (CIFS) – with Max. Memory	1500

Still A Solid Contender with Room for Scalability

The QNAP TS-464 NAS continues to impress with its adept blend of performance, expandability, and affordability, solidifying its position as a compelling choice in the NAS market. Despite its enduring popularity, areas for refinement and improvement, such as fixed memory configurations and software inconsistencies, underscore opportunities for growth and enhancement. As QNAP navigates security challenges and explores advancements in hardware technology, the TS-464 stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering innovative and reliable NAS solutions. Whether deployed for media streaming, data storage, or network applications, the TS-464 remains a timeless contender in the ever-evolving landscape of network-attached storage, poised to evolve alongside the evolving needs of its users.

Verdict – Should You Still Buy the QNAP TS-464 in 2024?

The QNAP TS-464 NAS persists as a steadfast contender in the ever-evolving NAS market, showcasing a commendable balance of features and performance even two years post its initial release. Its enduring popularity stems from a blend of compact design and hardware efficiency, underpinned by the Intel N5105 or N5095 processor, renowned for its low power consumption and robust performance. This amalgamation of hardware prowess and cost-effectiveness renders the TS-464 a suitable choice for a spectrum of environments, be it home or small businesses, where space and power efficiency are paramount considerations. Moreover, the device’s expansion capabilities serve as a cornerstone of its appeal, offering users the flexibility to adapt to evolving storage needs seamlessly. With multiple M.2 NVMe slots and PCIe slots at its disposal, the TS-464 embodies versatility, empowering users to augment their storage infrastructure with additional network cards, NVMe storage, or even Wi-Fi cards. These expansion options not only future-proof the NAS but also ensure that it remains adaptable to emerging storage technologies and networking standards.

However, amidst its strengths, potential buyers must navigate certain limitations that could impact their decision-making process. Chief among these is the transition towards fixed memory configurations in newer models, which may restrict the flexibility of memory upgrades—a factor that enthusiasts and power users should consider carefully. Furthermore, while the QTS operating system boasts a plethora of features and functionalities, users may encounter some inconsistencies and complexities in navigating the interface. This discrepancy, although not a deal-breaker, underscores the importance of user experience and interface design in enhancing the overall usability of the NAS. Despite these nuances, the QNAP TS-464 NAS remains a reliable storage solution, catering to diverse user requirements with its performance, expandability, and compatibility features. As such, its enduring relevance in the NAS landscape underscores its status as a noteworthy contender for those seeking a robust and versatile storage solution for their home or business needs.

Amazon UK 65.53 OFF (WAS 1616) [LINK]
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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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Review of the Terramaster D8 Hybrid Storage System

What IS the D8 Hybrid and why is this brand’s newest device getting a lot of media attention of late? Terramaster has been a name in the world of NAS for quite a few years, but what about DAS? Unlike Network Attached Storage, Direct Attached Storage is something that is way, WAY more common and to try and stretch your muscles in this market requires something a little special. It would be unfair to say that Terramaster are new to this market, as they have actually been in this market with numerous USB and Thunderbolt solutions since around 2018/2019. Some of these were RAID enabled, some of them JBOD and thanks to their NAS systems being supporting USB Expansions, this has helped them create a neat crossover between their portfolio of devices. However, what can Terramater bring to the table in the heavy saturated world of USB storage? Well, the D8 is trying something different, with it’s 4 HDD and 4 NVMe USB-C 10Gb connected storage that is half JBOD (loose drives) and half RAID (supporting a mirror RAID on 2x HDDs). There are certainly pros and cons here, putting this much hybrid storage behind a USB connection, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of reliance of a client machine to manage the larger RAID options out there, but the burning question is… is the D8 Hybrid actually any good? Let’s discuss it in today’s review.

Find out more about the bigger Terramaster D8 Hybrid System HERE on Kickstarter

Note – You can watch the full YouTube Review and Benchmarks of the Terramaster D5 Hybrid storage system HERE

Terramaster D8 Hybrid Review – Quick Conclusion

The TerraMaster D8 Hybrid excels in blending the high capacity of HDDs with the quick data access speeds of SSDs, housed within a single, efficient unit. The system’s design emphasizes user-friendliness with features like tool-less drive installation and low operational noise, making it an excellent choice for a variety of settings, from busy office environments to quiet home use. However, potential users should weigh the impact of the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, which, while sufficient for many applications, might not meet the needs of those requiring the fastest possible data transfer speeds. The absence of Thunderbolt technology is a noted limitation, but this is reflected in the D8 Hybrid’s competitive pricing, which targets a segment of the market more concerned with value and reliability than with leading-edge performance. The TerraMaster D8 Hybrid offers a well-rounded solution for those seeking a storage system that combines large storage capacity with respectable speeds at a cost-effective price point. Its performance, although not pushing the upper limits of current technology, provides ample support for most professional and personal storage needs, making it a worthwhile investment for a broad range of users. The thoughtful design and practical features, coupled with the device’s solid build and reliable performance within its defined limits, establish the D8 Hybrid as a standout offering in its category.

Specification	Details
Dimensions	222 x 179 x 154 mm
Weight	1.6 kg
Power Supply	90 W (100V to 240V AC) 50/60 HZ, Single Phase
System Fan	80 mm x 80 mm x 25 mm (x2)
Maximum Noise Level	17.3 dB(A) (Using 4 SATA HDDs/SSDs in standby mode)
Compatible Disk Types	3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA SSD
Compatible NVMe	M.2 2280 NVMe Slot (x4)
Raw Capacity	Up to 128TB (24 TB HDD x 2 + 8 TB NVMe x 4)
Supported RAID Configurations	SINGLE DISK, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
HDD Sleep Mode	Yes
Connectivity	USB3.2 Type-C gen2 (10Gbps), DC IN 12V Barrelport
Price	€199-299

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Introduction to the TerraMaster D8 Hybrid

The TerraMaster D8 Hybrid is engineered to cater to the evolving demands of personal and small business storage by amalgamating traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) with the swift, modern NVMe solid-state drives (SSDs).

 

This system includes four versatile SATA bays that support both 3.5″ and 2.5″ drives and four M.2 NVMe slots, offering a broad spectrum of storage options. It utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity, capable of reaching speeds up to 1000 MB/s. However, this setup prompts a discussion about the possible limitations of USB connectivity when used with high-performance storage technologies, potentially creating bottlenecks that could affect data transfer speeds.

Exploring the Design and Build

The D8 Hybrid showcases a durable and user-friendly design consistent with Terramaster’s latest NAS models. The system facilitates easy installation of drives with its tool-free “click and load” mechanism, suitable even for users without technical expertise.

The operational noise level is moderately low, which is a crucial consideration for use in shared spaces like small offices or home environments.

The storage solution accommodates up to four HDDs and four NVMe SSDs but opts out of including faster interface technologies such as Thunderbolt to maintain an affordable price point. This choice might restrict the performance potential of the system but makes the D8 Hybrid more accessible financially to a broader audience.

ASMedia and Realtek are two prominent players in the semiconductor industry, particularly known for their contributions to the development of chips that handle data connectivity and processing in various electronic devices.

ASMedia, a subsidiary of ASUS, specializes in high-speed interface technology, particularly USB and PCIe bridge solutions. Notably, their chips are pivotal in enhancing the performance of USB connections. For example, the ASM3042 is a significant advancement in their USB controller lineup, bridging PCI Express to USB3.2 and providing support for legacy USB functions. This chip showcases ASMedia’s capability to deliver high bandwidth and efficient power management, essential for maintaining low power consumption in various devices

In 2022, ASMedia became one of the first to introduce a USB4 host-controller, the ASM4242, designed to support high data transmission speeds up to 64 Gbps, making it backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and other protocols. The incorporation of ASMedia’s ASM4242, a high-performance USB4 host controller, into a device configuration represents a significant step towards future-proofing data transfer capabilities. The ASM4242 supports up to 64 Gbps of bandwidth, providing a robust solution for high-speed data, video, and power transmission over a single USB connection. This level of integration ensures that devices are not only meeting current standards but are also prepared for next-generation needs, with backward compatibility ensuring a broad range of device support.

Realtek’s contributions, while more commonly associated with their audio and network solutions, also extend to data interface technologies. Realtek chips are crucial for managing data transmission and ensuring compatibility across a vast ecosystem of computing and multimedia devices.

Their technology helps to stabilize and optimize the data flow, critical for the functionality of hybrid storage systems where data integrity and speed are paramount.

Detailed Performance Assessment

The performance of the D8 Hybrid was meticulously tested under various configurations to truly understand its capabilities and limitations. Configuring the device with two Seagate 24TB Ironwolf Pro Series HDDs in a RAID 0 setup, the system demonstrated robust performance with peak read/write speeds reaching 551/540MB/s.

Next up, to put this into perspective (and measure what that RAID 0 actually provided vs singular use), I ran the same tests with a single 24TB HDD. The results were notable and though unsurprisingly half that of the RAID 0 Dual Disk pool, did also give you a nice idea of what full hardware RAID on this device (or an externally managed RAID Controller/OS-RAID) could have given us.

Finally, I ran the same tests on a single M.2 NVMe SSD in Slot #1 if the system (a Kingston KC3000 M.2 NVMe) and the results was practical full saturation of the 10G USB connection. If we had used an external RAID controller/OS-RAID, we still would not have been able to escape the USB 3.2 Gen 2 1,000MB/s maximum,but it could have improved IOPS/latency further.

We have to look at this device as a JBOD (with a hint of a mirrored RAID) and therefore scale back our expectations a bit. With that in mind, I am happy with what the D8 Hybrid can do without a RAID in place. I could have managed this with my windows client and thrown on a few different RAID’s using software (softRAID or even just Disk Management and stripe etc), but that would limit the results to just my own system/setup. Overall, these numbers suggest a careful balance between performance and cost, ensuring adequate speed for standard tasks without the premium price tag associated with higher-end interfaces like Thunderbolt.

Is This a Comparative Market?

The D8 Hybrid is strategically positioned in the market to appeal to users who prioritize reliable performance over cutting-edge speed. It serves well for small to medium business applications, home offices, and creative professionals who require a dependable storage solution. The device offers an appealing alternative to more expensive options by providing sufficient speed for everyday tasks, including data backup and accessing large files, without compromising on quality or reliability.

Its cost-effectiveness paired with versatile storage capabilities makes the D8 Hybrid a formidable competitor in the hybrid storage market. It’s particularly attractive for budget-conscious buyers who still require a robust storage solution that can handle a mix of data types and usage scenarios.

Final Verdict and Conclusion of the Terramaster D8 Hybrid

The TerraMaster D8 Hybrid excels in blending the high capacity of HDDs with the quick data access speeds of SSDs, housed within a single, efficient unit. The system’s design emphasizes user-friendliness with features like tool-less drive installation and low operational noise, making it an excellent choice for a variety of settings, from busy office environments to quiet home use. However, potential users should weigh the impact of the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, which, while sufficient for many applications, might not meet the needs of those requiring the fastest possible data transfer speeds. The absence of Thunderbolt technology is a noted limitation, but this is reflected in the D8 Hybrid’s competitive pricing, which targets a segment of the market more concerned with value and reliability than with leading-edge performance. The TerraMaster D8 Hybrid offers a well-rounded solution for those seeking a storage system that combines large storage capacity with respectable speeds at a cost-effective price point. Its performance, although not pushing the upper limits of current technology, provides ample support for most professional and personal storage needs, making it a worthwhile investment for a broad range of users. The thoughtful design and practical features, coupled with the device’s solid build and reliable performance within its defined limits, establish the D8 Hybrid as a standout offering in its category.

PROs of the Terramaster D8 Hybrid

CONs of the Terramaster D8 Hybrid

Good sustained performance (if you preferred that to ‘Peak’ performance Low Power Use and Low Noise Good internal processor choices, especially for the price point NAS Supported, so can be used as a tiered expansion box Very simple to use Mac/Windows Supported (even worked connected to my Android phone!) Almost completely toolless Solid build and good ‘feel’ Supports 8TB M.2 NVMes (Tested Addlink A95 8TB 2280 NVMe) HDD Bay 1+2 are RAID Supported Affordable!

Software is limited and Premium features require a subscription Peak performance is much lower than what you would expect, despite 3×1 speed (max 1GB) on each m.2 USB 10Gb/s is going to be a bummer for those thinking about the real speed that 3x m.2 SSDs could hit. Disappointing that there is no USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (40Gb/s) or USB4/TB4 Version

CWWK Q670 Gen 5 NAS Board Review

With so, SO many DIY mini server motherboards in the market, what exactly does the $200 CWWK Q670 NAS motherboard bring to the party that we haven’t seen dozen times before? The booming market for 24×7 server mobos in ‘M-ITX in the last 18-24 months has been somewhat meteoric, with Chinese brands such as CWWK and Topton gaining a lot of industry attention for providing versatile solutions that challenge the hardware power and value that we have come to expect. The CWWK Q670 certainly continues this trend, arriving as a M-ITX motherboard that is ready for the slowly rolling out 14th Gen of Intel CPUs (as well as 12 and 13th Generation), Gen 5 PCIe architecture, DDR5 memory in the triple figures, eight native SATA drives and three m.2 NVMes SSDs (covering Gen5x4 and at 22110 length too). There is ALOT here on this little board. But power isn’t everything! How does it all come together? Have compromises been made? And ultimately, does it deserve your data? Let’s find out whether the Q670 deserves to find a home in your homelab.

Important Note – The photos taken for this article were taken AFTER I installed a CPU, Memory and heatsink. The default $200+ model of the CWWK Q670 arrives without any kind of extras.

Component	Details
Form Factor	Mini-ITX (17 cm x 17 cm, 6.7-in x 6.7-in)
Chipset	Intel Q670
Supported CPUs	Intel 12th/13th/14th Generation LGA1700 desktop processors
Memory Technology	Desktop U-DIMM DDR5
Memory Slots	2* U-DIMM DDR5 dual channel
Memory Speed	DDR5 supports 5600MHz by default (12th gen processors only support 4800MHz)
Max Memory Capacity	Single memory maximum 96GB; two memories maximum 192GB
M.2 Slots	1* M.2 NVMe PCIe 5.0 x4 (2280/22110 size, front of motherboard)
	2* M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 (2280 size, back of motherboard)
SATA Ports	8* SATA 3.0 (6Gbps)
Network Ports	1* Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45
	1* Intel i226-LM 2.5G RJ45 (supports Intel vPro remote management function)
Expansion Slots	1* PCI-E x16 (PCIe 5.0 x16 signal) supports graphics card/network card expansion
Display Outputs	1* HDMI 2.0 (supports 4K 4096×2160 @ 60Hz)
	1* DP 1.4 (supports 4K 4096×2160 @ 60Hz)
	1* D-Sub (supports 1080P 1920×1200 @ 60Hz)
USB Ports	2* USB 2.0 Type-A (rear)
	2* USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (rear)
	1* USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (rear)
	2* USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (via header)
	1* USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (via header)
	2* USB 2.0 Type-A (via header)

Where to Buy? CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS MoBo ($203 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 NVMe NAS Board ($155 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 Barebones + Case ($239 Amazon) – HERE

CWWK Q670 NAS Board Review – Quick Conclusion

As long as you do not lose sight of the fact that the CWWK Q670 NAS mobo is designed to be part of a larger and more powerful NAS build, there is ALOT to love here – especially at 200 bucks! For an M-ITX board this thing out specs a lot of bigger and broader M-ATX boards at the price. The Gen 5 architecture, if you are going to build around it ‘hardcore’ enough, as well as spend the time needed to tweak it, is definitely this board’s USP. As is that it manages to challenge conceptions of what an MITX board should arrive with, thanks to those eight native SATA ports. The remote BIOS-level access is a nice extra and although its not going to be used by everyone, in a pinch (ie ‘back against the wall troubleshooting and/or maintenance), it’s a great little bonus. The huge scalability afforded to the NAS builders with the UDIMM memory choice over SODIMM and three M.2s really does allow for a much more aggressively storage-focused system here. All that said, things are super cramped here and extra care is advised when buying your accessories (especially cooling), as aside from airflow restrictions, there is the potential here to accidentally create a air flow dead end! This is NOT a motherboard for the learner homelab’er or shiny new NAS enthusiast… but if you are happy to spend a little more and have the time to configure accordingly, this thing can be a fricking POWERHOUSE!

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? These Offers are Checked Daily

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CWWK Q670 Gen 5 NAS Board Review – Design and Hardware

Although I set up the CWWK Q670 NAS motherboard with a 12th Gen i5 processor, it’s worth highlighting that this board supports all the way up to the latest 14th Gen of Intel Core processors (no mean feat, given their launch very late last year and very few mobos of this scale being compatible without significant compromise. Bring an M-ITX does mean that there are architectural compromises of course (more on that later) but they do manage to squeeze ALOT in here (for good, and for bad).

It’s also worth touching on that there are 2 versions of the 670, with a remote access network card that allows the end user to access system control and bios level customization over the network via Intel vPro and Intel EMA remotely. It’s quite a niche service for anything less than enterprise/bigger-business use, but its an incredibly useful feature for those that do not have the time or physical deployment for keyboard, Video & Mouse. This service is bound to one of the 2.5G ports, and does not prevent it for typical LAN use by the NAS system.

The CPU and cooler requirements are LGA1700 and the rear of the Q670 is a clean layout, and CWWK have used this spec to include two Gen4 M.2 slots (more eon these later), but we have to talk about something far more intriguing in this M-ITX board…

The Q670 features EIGHT native SATA 6Gb ports (no mini-SAS fan out requires or an m.2-to-SATA adapter) which really is a breath of fresh air, even if this NAS mobo wasn’t so feature rich already. Additionally, native SATA massively smooths any potential NAS OS BIOS conflicts in the event of managing large drive layouts.

That said, this is definitely one of the earliest examples of this motherboard cramming in ALOT of hardware. The 8x SATA ports are directly next to the UDIMM Memory slots. The Q670 features two UDIMM memory slots, which one the face of it is GREAT! Rather than SODIMM (which most would expect from a mobno of this scale), UDIMM allows for larger memory capacity per module, as well as more common ECC modules available in UDIMM. Equally, newer generation CPUs support ALOT of memory, which this board is clearly ready to capitalize on! So what is the problem?

Well, those UDIMM slots are remarkably close to the CPU cooler and although there are plenty of good coolers in the market with a taller and slimmer profile, this can become problematic depending on the NAS case you are choosing to use.

Alternatively (I can hear you thinking) you could just rotate the cooler? Well, on the other side of the cooler is your PCIe Gen 5×4 slot – and for those that know, PCIe Gen 5×4 gets HOT! So, it is always recommended that you use a fan assisted heatsink for a Gen 5 SSD – which will be directly in the path of your CPU cooler, if you rotate it.

Ok, what about facing it downwards? Well, that places you pretty squarely above your PCIe slot. The CWWK Q670 arrives with a very beefy PCIe Gen 5×16 card slot – but that’s just it – a single slot (one of those fun limits of M-ITX that is quite common, that I mentioned earlier). So you will likely be using this for a NIC upgrade (2 port 10g/25GbE card perhaps to get some serious saturation of those M.2 and/or 8xSATA) or adding a multi-port Gen 5×4 M.2 SSD card to start carving up that 5×16 slot into multiple SSDs via bifurcation? Hell, maybe even go extra wild and look at mid-high tier GFX cards.

Regardless, you once again face quite alarming proximity with that CPU cooler if it faces in that direction! In 2 outta 3 (technically 4) of these placements of the cooler, you have nothing to worry about (even less still with a taller and narrower cooler), but that is still a lot of very high throughput components in close proximity that have quite obstructed airflow! Again, there are ways and means to mitigate with upright coolers, or even using watercooling and pipes – but that’s a lot to wrap around an M-ITX board when this scale of mobo is mostly there to reduce physical space on the server enclosure vs ATX.

Example on Aliexpresss HERE

Returning to the M.2 Gen 5×4 slot, the Q670 might well be the first Gen5 M-ITX NAS Mobo that CWWK have ever released (and there are not a vast number of others out there from other brands either). Additionally, this slot supports up to the longer 22110 M.2 scale, which allows for larger capacity drive potential, better NAND distribution drives (i.e more, smaller capacity NAND cells on an M.2 PCB result in higher consistent performance vs fewer NAND cells of a larger capacity), plus longer 22110 SSDs can put the NAND all on one side of the PCB to better manage heat dissipation and physical space upon installation. This isn;t even factoring PLP SSDs either! This is a savvy move, as SSD makers are now hitting performance and temp walls when expanding Gen5 SSD technology and are perhaps instead favouring side-grading these drives to improve sustained performance and stability.

The rear M.2 NVMe slots are Gen 4×4, which makes a lot of sense, given just how far the architecture on this mobo has been stretched. As the mobo does not arrive with a CPU, the full extent to which an end user can tinker with the architecture and how much lane/speed can be afforded to these slots is up for debate. Just because the board CAN hit Gen 5 and 4 respectively on these M.2. does not mean you are going to get it without the right CPU choice!

Both the Gen 4×4 slots are 2280 in length (only the Gen 5 is 22110) which, in a way, is a bit of a shame, as these two slots have a whole lot of surface area to play with compared with the comparatively cramped surface when the Gen5 slot lives. Nevertheless, it’s great that this board is ready to go for 8 SATA HDD/SSDs and 3 M.2 NVMes (and that is even before you start considering the PCIe Upgrade slot. That said, the BIOS on this board is (on the plus side) incredibly flexible in it’s configuration, but also (bad side) tremendously intimidating in it’s range of choices, with lane distribution depending on your CPU choice being quite hard going!

This opens the door towards how many/much of those M.2 are going to be usable with the PCIe slot in use. With a higher, more modern and more capable processor, there’s a good deal to share around, otherwise you end up making touch lane speed choices!

The rang of ports and connections on the board are actually a fraction ‘safe’, with the USB connectivity and an additional network control feature being the only area with a slight bit of difference from the bulk of CWWK boards.

There is a fairly pedestrian USB-A 3.2 port, but there IS a 20Gb/s USB-C port. This is listed as just “3.2 20Gb/s”, so its a little unclear on whether this is USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or a USB 4 port that that has had its bandwidth halved.

There are visual outputs of course (an HDMI 2.0 and a DisplayPort 1.4) which can output at 4K 60FPS, but the extent to which these can be used is going to be heavily dependant on your NAS OS of choice again.

The USB Type A connectivity is 5Gb(s) Gen 2 and there are two ports available, a bit ‘so-so’. But better to have lots of USB 5G ports than 1-2 10G ports (I know this is not an opinion often shared!)

But I do like the internal USB 2.0 port, as that is perfect for an UnRAID setup on this motherboard – and now that ZFS pools are fully stable and supported in UnRAID, it makes the 8+3 storage slot CWWK Q670 exceedingly desirable.

The network ports are both 2.5GbE, which is going to be something of a bottle neck externally (especially when you factor in that even a medium-sized mechanical Pro/Ent HDD can hit speeds of 250-282MB/s), but that is where that PCIe slot will add network scalability, and don;t overlook the appeal of combo cards (M.2 + 10G cards) from brands like QNAP that work on this board (I tested the first gen QM2 Combo card).

However, interestingly the Q670 also arrives with the support of Intel vPro which, for most users, is going to serve as the ideal gateway to manage their system backend configuration remotely – I am talking BIOS level. In practice, that means that having to awkwardly KVM into a system that is typically deployed without any accessories is avoidable. It requires a little setup and using the vPro interface requires further setup, but ultimately this is a nice extra that is a lot rarer in DiY NAS boards than you might expect.

Overall, this might be the best balance of hardware scalability and storage scalability on a reduced physical scale that I have EVER seen, not just in DiY. Plus, arriving at the $200 price tag all adds up to a NAS board that provides tremendous hardware customization on a larger NAS system, without braking the bank + allows you to put that money you saved towards a beefy CPU and some excess memory! Let’s discuss that hardware configuration internally and what a fairly average and affordable CPU can get out of it?

CWWK Q670 Gen 5 NAS Board Review – Performance and Tests

Performing any tests on a NAS motherboard that is not available with an integrated CPU was always going to be tricky, as it means the results are always going to be fantastically relative to that specific configuration and represent one of hundreds or even thousands of configurations – and the CWWK Q670 is no exception. To get some base level understanding of the board on it’s own, here is the hardware spec it arrives with:

Feature/Service	Details
vPro Function	Requires i5-1X500 or above processor. F series does not support it and requires core graphics.
Power Efficiency	Recommended T processors such as 13500T for power efficiency and long-term use
Supported Memory Speed	DDR5 supports 5600MHz by default (12th gen processors only support 4800MHz)
USB Features	Built-in set of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 pin sockets for panel connection
Display Support	HDMI + DP dual display output supports 4K @ 60Hz
Network Management	Intel i226-LM 2.5G RJ45 supports Intel vPro remote management function
Operating System Compatibility	Supports Microsoft Windows 10/11 64-bit, Compatible with Linux (EFI mode only)
Memory Compatibility	Dual-channel desktop U-DIMM DDR5 slot supports 5600MHz backward compatibility
Miscellaneous Software	Supports U disk encryption, system booting

I went ahead and installed an Intel 6-Core / 12 Thread 12th Gen i5 Core and 16GB 4800Mhz non-ECC DDR5 Memory. Straight out the gate, just using three M.2 NVMes on the system (full benchmarking, Gen 4 and Gen 5) the system hit around 45W utilization. Had I connected eight SATA HDDs, I can imagine this would have been almost doubled! However, there were not 8 drives in our test area available at the time of this review.

As mentioned earlier, the BIOS that is available on this board is pretty deep, even by ‘bare mobo’ standards. Also, adjusting the PCIe Gen goes up to Gen5 all over the shop!

I went ahead and ran UnRAID on the system (thank you, small internal USB Port!) and a;; the SATA/M.2 slots were visible and good to go!

The layout of the system in it’s default configuration (using the i5 I installed) was reasonable, but the speeds on the M.2 slots was definitely a little ‘funky’, especially when you factor in that I installed Gen 4 Kingston KC3000s and a Gen 5 Phison E26 M.2 in their respectively supported slots.

The first disappointment is that, unless I used up a scaled-up processor and spent some time playing with the bios, the Gen 5×4 slot was downgraded to Gen 4×4. Gen 4 is still good, but the major appeal of this Mobo for some users is going to be the fact its Gen 5 SSD ready. What about the Gen 4 slots?

Well, good news and bad news there. The first Gen 4 M.2 slot was defaulted at Gen 4×4 WITHOUT any downgrade. Great stuff, right? Well…

The 2nd Gen 4 slot had been downgraded to Gen 3×4! Remember, this is how the the system has default laid things out with the i5 12th Gen processor I choose to use. I am sure there is wiggle room for this and as mentioned several times, this configuration is one of literally thousand of possibilities, but I raise this to demonstrate that this board needs some hands on work by the user when its installed to get the most out if it for the end user’s needs.

Looking at performance, within the gen and speed that this motherboard defaulted to, these are all reasonable. Eg the Gen 5×4 slot (that SHOULD hit a potential 10-12GB with the right drive) was hitting a respective 6GB/s, as it was downgraded to 4×4.

Likewise, the Gen 4×4 m.2 slot that had not been downgraded hit 5.9-6GB/s. Not the reported 7GB that Kingston says this drive will be capable of hitting of course, but those benchmarks are based on much more powerful setups and tools than these comparatively primitive tests.

And then there was the Gen4 slot that had been downgraded to 3×4. Thanks to it still being ‘x4’, the Gen 4 drive, even with it’s forced downward auto-negotiation, was still hitting respectable 2.9-3.0GBs numbers.

The forced downgrades that kicked in, I am sure, could be negotiated with a better setup and with more time being spent in bios – but those looking at more modest and affordable NAS setups are likely going to lose out on the full abilities of this motherboard. M.2 slots that sharer lanes with the PCIe slot (or even shared across multiple M.2s) are not a new thing, but ultimately you need to keep in mind that this board is not going to immediately give you a perfect system base to work with – it just opens to doors and windows enough to get you on your way, with an M-ITX NAS build.

CWWK Q670 Gen 5 NAS Board Review – Conclusion and Verdict

As long as you do not lose sight of the fact that the CWWK Q670 NAS mobo is designed to be part of a larger and more powerful NAS build, there is ALOT to love here – especially at 200 bucks! For an M-ITX board this thing out specs a lot of bigger and broader M-ATX boards at the price. The Gen 5 architecture, if you are going to build around it ‘hardcore’ enough, as well as spend the time needed to tweak it, is definitely this board’s USP. As is that it manages to challenge conceptions of what an MITX board should arrive with, thanks to those eight native SATA ports. The remote BIOS-level access is a nice extra and although its not going to be used by everyone, in a pinch (ie ‘back against the wall troubleshooting and/or maintenance), it’s a great little bonus. The huge scalability afforded to the NAS builders with the UDIMM memory choice over SODIMM and three M.2s really does allow for a much more aggressively storage-focused system here. All that said, things are super cramped here and extra care is advised when buying your accessories (especially cooling), as aside from airflow restrictions, there is the potential here to accidentally create a air flow dead end! This is NOT a motherboard for the learner homelab’er or shiny new NAS enthusiast… but if you are happy to spend a little more and have the time to configure accordingly, this thing can be a fricking POWERHOUSE!

PROs of the CWWK Q670 NAS Motherboard	CONs of the CWWK Q670 NAS Motherboard
A Gen5 M-ITX NAS Mobo…SOLD! 8x SATA Ports (actual SATA, not via an m.2 adapter or miniSAS) Good scope to support 13th Gen and more CPUs 3x M.2 at Gen 5 and 4 (one of the 22110) PCIe 5×16 Slot Excellent USB Outputs Full-Length DIMM Memory Support (i.e more memory possible) Very well priced at just over $200+	CPU Cooler vs Memory slot placement is VERY tight! Need a lot of BIOS tuning by the end user No pre-bundled (CPU/RAM) options 1 PCIe slot (standard M-ITX build) will lead to hard choices about NIC upgrades

Where to Buy? CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS MoBo ($203 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 NVMe NAS Board ($155 AliExpress) – HERE CWWK x86 P5 Barebones + Case ($239 Amazon) – HERE

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QNAP TS-464 or the Synology DS423+ NAS Drive – Which Should You Buy?

Choosing Between the Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-464 NAS is more than just about how you are spending your money at checkout! Making a move away from 3rd public cloud storage can be a big, BIG decision for some users. The ‘freemium’ and low cost monthly subscription to the likes of Google Drive and DropBox seems like a drop in the ocean, right up until you realise that over the years you have spent hundreds of pounds and you face the fact that you are going to need to consider moving that data onto something more long term and ‘in house’. For many users, this is their first encounter with two of the bigger brands in the world of NAS, Synology and QNAP and although at a glance they seem to provide the same kind of solution, even a brief second glance reveals that these two brands have very, very different ideas of where you should be spending your money. Synology is the sleek, apple-esc presented solution that promises a smooth and uncomplex experience, with an arguably more rigid and fixed architecture. Whereas QNAP is the more customizable and flexible in its hardware and software, but has a slightly higher learning curve and requires more time to configure perfectly. Both brands provide an excellent range of NAS solutions with each of the solutions in today’s comparison being quite similar in price, but what you are getting for your money, the range of software included, the scope of hardware that is available and how they translate to upgradable and scalability is incredibly different! So, today we are going to compare the Synology DS423+ NAS released in March 2023 (HEAVILY comparable to the 2020 gen DS920+) against the spring 2022 released QNAP TS-464 NAS.

Synology DS423+ vs QNAP TS-464 NAS – Design

The design of the QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS423+ are both very uniform to the brands, utilizing existing designs in their respective Home/Prosumer/SMB ranges. Both are 4-Bay desktop solutions that are designed to be deployed easily and pretty much anywhere. They are largely the same in physical volume, with the Synology DS423+ arriving the tiniest pinch larger, but both systems provide a similar level of storage on their four SATA and 2x NVMe M.2 SSD bays. The Synology has the more traditional shape of the lockable storage media bays being immediately visible, but finish this with an incredibly modernistic shape and matt surface design. The front of the system features a single USB backup port, as well as 5 LEDs for system/drive activity and those two M.2 SSD bays are located on the base of the system. The QNAP TS-464 NAS uses a more glossy and slightly coloured design by comparison (featuring a copper side panel), with the 4 drive bays of the system being covered by a slidable and lockable semi-translucent panel. The QNAP also featured the same LED/USB present, but there are more LEDs on the QNAP and the USB here is both a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Port (10Gb/s) and is accompanied by a one-touch copy button. This is one of the early examples of how things in the NAS market have moved forward in hardware but Synology has instead doubled down on their focus of it’s DSM software platform above all else. The QNAP TS-464 is certainly the more expensive NAS of the two, with the DS423+, despite being newer and having a different position in the brand’s portfolio (see the DS923+ to learn more), but the hardware you are getting for that price tag is notably different and will become a clear divide between these two. Because of the compact design, both systems need to factor in intelligent cooling, as they will likely be in operation 24×7. This is another clear area where the brands have gone in different directions here.

QNAP TS-464 NAS 168mm × 170mm × 226 mm	Synology DS423+ NAS 166 mm x 199 mm x 223 mm

The ventilation on the Synology DS423+ is certainly more visible but in a much more ‘branded’ and slick way. The QNAP TS-464 features no front-facing ventilation, instead using two small areas of ventilation on the sides of the chassis and the base of the TS-464 featuring further ventilation under each of the storage bays. The Synology on the other hand has much more passive airflow, with each of the individual storage bays being surrounded by a slit of ventilation and the side panel of the DS423+ having the Synology logo featured as further ventilation. Higher-end Synology desktop models feature metal mesh panels inside these logos to capture dust, but this is less of a concern in the more compact and discreet DS423+. Overall, I would certainly say that the Synology DS423+ have more visible efforts to maintain system temperature than the QNAP TS-464 (which is a real surprise when you see how the hardware these two systems are sporting compares) but both maintain a good operation temperature.

QNAP TS-464 NAS	Synology DS423+ NAS

When you look at the rear of the TS-464 and DS423+ NAS, you see another big difference in how each system maintains their respective internal temperatures, with the QNAP featuring a single 120mm fan that covers the bulk of the internal hardware airflow path and the Synology featuring two 92mm fans that cover around 70% of the rear of the chassis. Of the two, I would say the QNAP TS-464 is the noisier in operation of the two (when populated with 4x 4TB WD Red HDDs) by the tiniest of margins, but it isn’t really till you entertain the idea of enterprise HDDs or drives larger than 10TB that you need to worry about ambient sound around these two systems. Both the DS423+ and TS-464 can have the rotations per minute (RPM) of their fans changed manually or left on automatic as the system changes the internal cooling to ensure maximum efficiency.

QNAP TS-464 NAS	Synology DS423+ NAS

Overall, the design of the Synology DS423+ is still the better-looking system of the two and although I personally really like the copper and glossy look of the QNAP TS-464 NAS, I know that the bulk of users will want to ‘set up and forget’ their NAS, so these aesthetic design choices are less important to them. Equally, although the QNAP fan has the potential to cool its respective system much more, I think the Synology features a better balance of active airflow and passive ventilation overall. The QNAP still wins pretty big on its inclusion of a USB 3.2 Gen 2 One Touch Copy button enabled port for faster and more manual backup options (as well as still allow automated and connection-triggered backups as the Synology), but overall on points, this round belongs to the Synology DS423+ NAS.

QNAP TS-464 versus Synology DS423+ NAS – Internal Hardware

This is an area where you really see how both brands focus their priorities on the solutions they offer, as well as how the components common to NAS have evolved in the 2 years between their respective releases. The Synology DS423+ arrives with a familiar architecture to it’s predecessor (the DS420+) and is a fairly tried and tested formula by the brand. Synology was the first company to introduce NVMe SSD storage bays into desktop NAS systems around 5 years ago (something that QNAP has only really been catching up on in the last 2 YEARS). Likewise, Synology has made a few very brand-specific decisions in their system architecture that this rather more proprietary brand is often keen to implement. For example, the default DDR4 memory inside (2666Mhz SODIMM) is actually soldered to the main internal board (4x 256MB Modules), with an additional empty memory slot to allow an additional 4GB Synology-branded memory module. As the DS423+ has a CPU that has a maximum 8GB of memory, this is an oddly artificial limitation that results in the DS420+ only allowing 6GB of max memory, an odd move that is perhaps done out of system PCI/Bandwidth, rather than any kind of manufacturer restriction. The QNAP features a newer gen CPU (as you would expect after the later release) and this CPU allows up to 16GB of memory (4GB in the default model) across two upgradable slots. Likewise, returning to those M.2 NVMe slots, both system feature 2 bays that can be used for SSD storage upgrades, although both the DS423+ and TS-464 support SSD caching (when a pool of SSDs is used to speed up data write/read in conjunction with the larger HDD RAID array), Synology ONLY RECENTLY allowed NVMe Storage Pools on their platform, whereas QNAP  has allowed NVMes as standalone storage pools, for app booting, running the OS from and even their own special internal tiering system known as QTier. This is the first of several key differences between the QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS423+ NAS that show the divide in hardware between these units.

Model	QNAP TS-464	Synology DS423+
Price	£559               $650              €675	£508               $549              €569
Storage Media Support	4x SATA, 2x m.2 NVMe 3×1 for Cache/Pools/QTier	4x SATA, 2x NVMe SSD Cache/Pool Bays
CPU Model	Intel N5105/N5095	Intel J4125
CPU Frequency & Cores	Quad-Core 2.0-2.9Ghz	Quad-Core 2.0-2.7Ghz
CPU Benchmark Score	CPU benchmark 4161	CPU benchmark 3006
Memory Default/Max	4-16GB SODIMM DDR4	2-6GB SODIMM DDR4 (4GB onboard)
PSU Power & Design	90W External PSU	100W External PSU
Physical Fans	1x 120m FAN	2x 92m FAN

Of course, the clearest difference that most PC builder-minded people are going to notice is the CPU. NAS systems are designed to be operational for days, weeks, months and even years at a time. Therefore, in order to maintain optimal performance, as well as lower power consumption and lessen the damage that long-term operation can inflict on a processor, the CPUs used in NAS are a great deal more modest. In the case of the Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-464 NAS, they feature Intel Celeron processors, each featuring an embedded graphics component (allowing graphical operations, multimedia handling and visual data to be handled by a specialized area of the processor), quad-core architecture and a base level clock speed of 2.0Ghz that can be burst (turbo/increased when needed). However, the newer generation N5105/N5095 CPU in the QNAP is able to reach a higher overall clock speed and also is more efficient (i.e uses a little less hardware resources to get a task done than it would take on the J4125 typically, so, therefore, can do more tasks overall when the full CPU power is utilized). Indeed, CPUBenchmark rated the newer CPU 30%+ higher in it’s scoring than the J4125 (again, as you would expect for a CPU released more than a year later by Intel), so this processor means that more can be done on the QNAP (in like for like tasks) and also this CPU allows a greater range of hardware to be built into the system. CPUs are one of the largest quantifying factors of how a NAS is built and this is because they can only handle a certain amount of connected hardware (storage bays, ports, expansion slots, etc) when connected to a larger controller/motherboard. This is commonly referred to as the # of PCI lanes and the chipset used in the build of the system. Because this newer Intel N5105 / N5095 CPU has more lanes to use at once than the J4125, it allows the newer NAS drive to have more hardware.

QNAP TS-464 NAS – Intel N5105/N5095 CPU

Synology DS423+ NAS – Intel J4125 CPU

These additional CPU resources, as well as the increased maximum memory and flexibility of how the M.2 NVMe SSD slots can be used ultimately mean that in terms of internal hardware, the newer released QNAP TS-464 wins over the Synology DS423+ NAS. It is worth remembering that the M.2 NVMe SSD slots on the QNAP TS-464 are PCIe Gen 3 x1 (down to the Celeron CPU still not having anywhere near the scope in it’s flexibility that the likes of an Intel Core, Ryzen or Xeon might have) and will bottleneck at 1,000MB/s, but this is still better than nothing and there is still the lingering question of the Gen 2 slots on the DS423+ being 2×2 or 2×4 – which will potentially limit the M.2 NVMes on the DS423+ further still. So the QNAP still seems to have a better balance of NVMe SSD support in its architecture overall.

Synology DS423+ or QNAP TS-464 NAS – Ports & Connections

Now ports and connections on the Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-464 NAS is an area that is INCREDIBLY diverse in it’s approach by either brand. Once again, the reasons clearly to do with the CPU choice and position on their respective brand portfolios, but also the brand’s own decisions in build architecture/priorities still massively continue to be a contributing factor here. The Synology DS423+ NAS certainly comes across as the weaker of the two here in its connectivity and although a lot of the QNAP’s advancements in connectivity could be described as ‘future upgrades and simply facilitating extras or addons’, it still manages to provide a greater deal of connectivity to the day 1 user than the Synology system here. The port(s) that almost certainly will be the one that jumps out immediately on each system is the network connections. The DS423+ NAS arrives with 2x 1GbE ports which, although allowing link aggregation to create 2GbE with a smart switch, was still a little underwhelming in 2023 when released and looking increasingly out of step with modern network tech in 2024 (as we had already started seeing 2.5GbE arriving at the same price as 1GbE with a number of client hardware devices in 2020). The newer QNAP TS-464 features 2x 2.5GbE (so 5GbE via link aggregation and a supported switch) which now that some ISPs and budget switch manufacturers are providing affordable 2.5GbE solutions, will be incredibly useful. Then the is the additional PCIe upgrade slot on the QNAP NAS that allows upgrades towards 10GbE, dual-port 10GbE cards and even combo cards to add 10G and further M.2  NVMe bays via a single card. Again, there ARE upgrades and not something in the baseline model, but you can not argue with the future-proofing available here. Additionally, the DS923+ NAS released in December 2022 had the option to upgrade to 10GbE – something hugely absent here in the eyes of many on this 4xSATA and 2xNVMe DS423+ NAS. There is simply no avoiding that the 2023 released DS423+ looks a little dated in 2024, in large part to those 1GbE ports are something of a limiting factor.

Model	QNAP TS-464	Synology DS423+
Network Ports	2x 2.5GbE	2x 1GbE
USB 3.2 Ports	2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb)	2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gb)
USB 2.0 Ports	2x USB 2.0	0
HDMI Ports	1x HDMI 2.0 4K 60FPS	n/a
PCIe Upgrade Slots	PCIe Gen 3×2 Slot (2Gb/s)	n/a

After the network and PCIe differences that favour the TS-464, the distance between the 2023 and 2022 NAS hardware architecture here is further extended. The Synology DS423+ features a further USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gb/s) port, but LACKS the option to upgrade it’s storage down the line with an expansion (such as with the eSATA port on the DS920+ and DS923+ NAS supporting the DX517 official expansion). QNAP counters this on the TS-464 with the inclusion of another USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) port, as well as some (obviously less useful) USB 2.0 ports. These USB 2.0 Ports are primarily designed to be used in conjunction with the optional visual output (HDMI 2.0 4k 60FPS) on the QNAP as a KVM (Keyboard, video and mouse) setup with the included parallel HD Station application and its tool. The HDMI and direct interface of the QNAP is still pretty niche as a service on this system, but it has a number of useful multimedia, surveillance and VM utilities that can be quite impressive. Expansions on the TS-464 are more diverse than the 5-Bay DX517 on the DS423+ (which again, is NOT supported anyway), with QNAP offering 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12-Bay expansion chassis (arriving in JBOD or hardware RAID enabled) that connect over USB or an inclusive PCIe card. Overall, it comes as no surprise that in terms of hardware, the QNAP TS-464 still takes the first place, as the Synology DS423+ (like most of the brand’s solutions) is prioritizes the DSM platform and it’s tools/services over the hardware. Let’s discuss the software on each of these brands.

QNAP TS-464 or the Synology DS423+ NAS – Software

When you are choosing to buy a Synology or QNAP NAS, it is always worth bearing in mind that you are not just buying a bunch of hardware, but you are actually getting a fully-featured software solution. Both the Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-464 arrive with each brand’s premium NAS software and services platform, DSM and QTS respectively. Both of these platforms include a traditional operating system level of accessibility and control, that can be accessed via pretty much any web browser or desktop OS, as well as numerous tailored mobile client applications. The Synology DSM platform is a lot more comparable in design and control with Mac OSX and is by far the more user-friendly option of the two. The QNAP QTS platform is a lot more comparable to Android in its initial GUI and then more like Windows in it’s navigation, arriving as the option with a greater deal of configuration and control, but with a steeper learning curve. Another big difference between QTS and DSM is how they present their services, with QNAP providing a larger degree of support of 3rd party applications (both in the app center and in the configuration of their own range of 1st party applications. Synology DSM on the other hand proves a larger and more impressive range of fist party tools that are designed to replace/improve upon the 3rd party tools you might be using, with many of it’s applications being comparable to top tier 3rd party paid tools in the market (the Synology collaboration suite, the Surveillance Station application and pretty much everything in Synology Drive, just as a start). The QNAP platform also, in it’s efforts to be as widely compatible and configurable as possible, occasionally stems into over-complexity and risks the user tripping over itself as it tries to manage the larger scale of configuration Whereas, although the Synology DSM platform may seem a pinch more closed and fixed, it manages to prevent the users from accidentally ruining their own storage system. Here is a full breakdown of the key applications that are included with the QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS423+, broken down into categories:

	QNAP TS-464	Synology DS423+
Browser Support	Supports all Browsers	Supports all Browsers
	Browser File Management	Browser File Management
	Photo/Music/Video Tools	Photo/Music/Video Tools
	Multimedia Console	Synology Drive
	AI Photo Recognition	AI Photo Recognition
	Edge m.2 Coral TPU Support
Storage Services
	SED Drive Support	SED Drive Support
	QTier	Synology Hybrid RAID
	Hybrid Mount	Hybrid Share
	ISCSI Target/LUN	ISCSI Target/LUN
	vJBOD
	Snapshots	Snapshots
	SSD Cache (Read/Write/Both)	SSD Cache (Read/Write/Both)
	Cloud Sync / QSync	Cloud Sync
	Ex-FAT is Free	Fast RAID Rebuild
	RAID Resync control	RAID Resync control
	Secure Erase	Acrtive Backup Suite
	Lots of Expansions (TR/TL)	Hyper Backup
	HBS 3	Synology CMS
	Qfiling and Qsirch
Business Applications
	QVR Pro – 8 Camera Licenses (+USB Camera Support)	Surveillance Station – 2 Camera Licenses
	Virtualization Station	Virtual Machine Manager
	Ubuntu Linux Station 18/20	Docker Support
	Container Station	Active Backup 365 & Workspace
	Hypervisor Protector	Synology Office, Chat, Calendar
	QMailAgent	Synology Mail / MailPlus
	HD Station	Synology C2 and Services
	BoXafe
	Security Councillor	Security Councillor
	Malware Remover	Synology VPN Plus
	McAfee Anti-Virus Scanning	Log and Notification Center
	QVPN	Auto Blocking on SSH, Telnet etc
	Log and Notification Center	256 bit Encryption
	Auto Blocking on SSH, Telnet etc	2 Step Authentication
	256 bit Encryption	Firewall App
	2 Step Authentication	Access Protection and Allow/Deny list
	Firewall App	Synology Secure SignIn
	Access Protection and Allow/Deny list	Synology C2 Password

As you can see, both NAS brands provide similar levels of software, services and features, but they are presented in very different ways. Once again, I cannot emphasise enough how much more the QNAP platform is configurable but ALSO how it can often give you too much configuration and risk overwhelming less experienced users. The Synology DSM platform, for all its comparative rigidicy, is still overall the better software experience and you definitely see that Software over hardware priority from the brand clearly here. I have made long, LONG reviews on each of the NAS brand’s and their software platforms, which you can watch below for much, much more information on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

QNAP QTS 5.0 Review	Synology DSM 7 Review

Ultimately, it will come as no surprise that Synology come out on top in terms of software compared with the QNAP. That is not to say that the QNAP QTS platform is not good, it really, really is and some of the applications that are included for home and business users are often genuinely impressive, unique and provide facilities to the end-user that are wholly unavailable on any other NAS platform (eg Multimedia Console as a single portal media manager, the 2-3 Click VM storages and repository that are available in Virtualization Station, Linux Station and Container Staton or the QuMagie AI-powered tool that is able to cover a greater range of subjects and categories that any other NAS photo tool out there). However, the QNAP QTS platform is not quite as polished, as user-friendly and as responsive as the Synology DSM platform overall. If you want a better idea how these two NAS software platforms compare directly (i.e face to face), then you can check out my DSM vs QTS video below:

Alternatively, if you are NOT interested in using the software included with your NAS, there is always the option to install TrueNAS – Something that is surprisingly easy on the QNAP NAS (see video below):

QNAP TS-464 or the Synology DS423+ NAS – Conclusion

Ultimately, choosing between the Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-464 largely comes down to a question of hardware vs software. The QNAP TS-464 is by a long distance the more advanced in hardware in practically every way (thanks of course to the brand’s focus in this direction) which leads to that system having a tremendously large scope in terms of what you can do with it, how far the storage can be expanded and how upgradable the system can be. The QNAP is the better future-proof hardware choice and despite the Synology NAS platform having a stronger software platform, it still has a vast array of software and services available in QTS nonetheless. For those that are hardware-focused or want a NAS to support their existing 3rd party client tools and apps, the QNAP TS-464 is by and larger the better choice. The Synology DS423+ NAS on the other hand, despite its 2-3 year older hardware (already premiered in the 2020 released DS920+) and arguably safer/sensible stance on hardware in general, is still a great NAS that will likely becoming more popular and palatable in the 4-Bay NAS market as the pricing becomes a bit more flexible (as many will still weigh the DS423+ with the older DS920+ that still has stock floating around and opt for the latter). Add to that the core strength and first-party focus of DSM leading to this hardware+software solution providing you with a huge array of polished and premium feeling tools at your disposal. As long as you are happy to do things ‘Synology’s way’ and are looking for an easy to use system that will not tax the end-users brain, you will find Synology the better software choice overall.

QNAP TS-464 NAS – Spring/Summer 2022		Synology DS423+ NAS – Spring 2023
Reasons to Buy it? Better Hardware inside and out More Expansion/Upgrade Options Able to run more simultaneous apps/clients at once Faster USB Ports (10Gb/s) Larger bandwidth PCIe upgrade slot (PCIe 3×2 vs 2×2/2×4) Higher CPU Frequency, Efficiency & Proficiency M.2 SSD Useable Tiered Storage Option		Reasons to Buy it? Much more user-friendly Synology Hybrid RAID for flexibility Overall Better 1st Party Software Better Surveillance Access/Streaming Lower Price Point as it in the SOHO part of Syn’s Portfolio Quieter Operation First Party Accessories (HDD, SSD, Memory, etc) Available
Buy on Amazon	Where to Buy	Buy on Amazon	Where to Buy

 

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – SUPER COMPACT FLASH!

With so, SO many Chinese players entering the OS-free NAS scene in the last couple of years, several names have bubbled to the top (natural selection in IT?) and one name that is making big waves is Aoostar! At a glance, you could easily lump them into the ever  growing pile of ‘mini PC’ companies that spam your Facebook pages, AliExpress and eBay. But what has set them apart is their specifically NAS-tailored development of their server releases. The mini PC crossover from SoC/Mobile scale processors of your favourite Intel Core or Ryzen processor is nothing new, but the growing market for NAS systems that need to spread the focus towards storage and network connectivity is all too often a leap that separates the men from the boys – and what has make Aoostar a player in this arena it would appear. Back in December ’23, I reviewed the Aoostar R1 and Aoostar R7, and I was massively impressed by what these affordable UnRAID/TrueNAS-ready boxes were achieving! Today is the turn of the Aoostar GEM10 – An m.2 NVMe Flash NAS System that features Gen4 SSD architecture, USB4, 32GB DDR5 Memory, 2.5G and oCulink. So, does the Aoostar GEM10 NAS deserve your hot data? Let’s find out in today’s review.

Where to Buy? GEM10 AMD Ryzen 7 6800H 32GB ($379) – HERE GEM10 R7 1TB 6800H 32GB ($399) HERE Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (AliExpress $465) – HERE Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (7940HS Amazon) – HERE Aoostar GEM12 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (7840HS Amazon) – HERE Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (6800H Amazon) – HERE

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The Aoostar GEM10 is making some pretty bold hardware promises, given it’s scale! The ‘dazzle’ of how powerful mini PCs have been getting in the last few years has definitely become a little duller, as it grows more common. But given how Aoostar has merged this into a much more NAS-tailored system in a meaningful way that clearly cost some $ at the R&D level needs to be appalled. This is not a small SSD NAS with is covered in Mini-PC caveats – this IS a NAS and one that I think might well be the most powerful for it’s scale in the market right now (especially at $499+). That said, it certainly ain’t perfect! Network scalability is a mixed bag, the way memory has been approached (in architecture and ECC support) is debatable, the CPU choices in the range of 4 with the differing process and PCIe layouts is a big baffling and the full utility of oCuLink in this NAS context is still far from fleshed out. BUT, There are prosumer concerns for the more technically minded and IT sophisticated, which I think does not make up the bulk of this device’s target demographic. I struggle to call this system turn-key (due to it’s lack of an included NAS OS, even a 3rd party one, as seen in the UnRAID license-ready LincStation N1), but it’s certainly miles more user-friendly than full DiY. I have often spoken of the growing middle ground between full NAS DiY from the ground up and full ‘out the box’ turnkey from brands like Synology and QNAP. The Aoostar GEM10 is a FANTASTIC example of the kind of product that can evolve from this – well build, powerful, 3rd party OS ready and a step above the churned-out Chinese budget fodder found elsewhere in the ‘pre-built OS free NAS sector’. Recommended – IF you have the time to set it up right!

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? These Offers are Checked Daily

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Design

The design of The GEM10 is a little beefier than most mini PCs (though, obviously much smaller than comparable desktop NAS devices running on MITX boards), and a lot of this space is needed for the chunky cooling system internally.

The GEM10 arrives at just 10.7cm x 10.7cm x 6cm in size and just a little under 1KG when fully populated with SSDs. The retail kit includes an external power adapter, instruction manual (which arrives in 2 languages and is a little space tbh), mini screwdriver and thermal pads. Depending on whether you purchase the version with SSD and 32GB DDR5 Media, this will change the # of thermal pads inc.

There is ventilation on practically every side of the device – which given the 8-core 4.7Ghz , 16 thread architecture of the device and it’s three Gen4 M.2 slots should NOT come as a big surprise! This tony little chassis has a lot crammed in and the potential for temperature-related system bottlenecks and throttling is MASSIVE!

Alongside the passive ventilation panels on all 4 sides and the top section (above where the CPU is located), the system also features who internal active cooling fans built into the top and base. Even a casual check through the vented panels reveals the internal heatsink of that CPU. This is a decent amount of cooling provisioning for the scale of the system, even for a Ryzen SoC like this one, for when SSD NAS operations truly kick off!

The base fan is not silent, but it manages to be pretty mild (in the grad scheme of things), as it is parallel with the desk when deployed. I will say that full control of this fan (and the CPU fan) is debatable, as the system does not arrive with NAS software (no Aoostor 1st party NAS OS, or an included UnRAID/TrueNAS/OMV license either). So, how much control you have over these cooling measures is going to be debatable.

For such a compact chassis, you can definitely feel the weight of the internals. The external casing is largely plastic, which I was a little surprised by. Nevertheless, you cannot fault that the brand has clearly factored cooling and ventilation in to their device, whilst still keeping an eye on keeping it fantastically compact. Let’s discuss the connectivity of the Aoostar GEM10.

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Ports and Connections

Credit where it is due – Aoostar has done a 10/10 job here to get as many ports featured on this device as they have, given the scale of the GEM10. The ports are located on the front and rear panel, and although there are the usual ‘mini PC’ telltale ones (audio in/out for example, that has practically no use in traditional NAS outside of a locally deployed VM), I will definitely give them credit for keeping pretty much everything else very NAS friendly – with a fun little twist at the end!

The ports are largely separated into network ports and storage ports (at least when you use NAS software) with the front featuring 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s), USB 4 (40Gbps) and an Oculink port (more on that later).

The rear on the other hand features two 2.5GbE ports (so, a little good news / bad news there), twin HDMI 4K/8K outputs and two more USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb ports. So, although this mini NAS is a little more on the expensive side compared to other Mini SSD NAS that have been launched from China in the last 18 months, I will say that this device features some of the very ports hardware ports out there I have been at this price point.

We are starting to see more and more USB4 NAS-ready devices arrive on the market from China, as the booming industry for NAS-ready Mini ITX and Micro ITX boards scene grows more and more. However, once again, the extent to which you can use this functionality is hugely NAS OS-dependent. So, although I am willing to bet that most NAS software you install on this will happily give you USB 4 speeds on a connected external SSD drive, I do not think we will see this for use as a direct PC/Mac-to-NAS connection anytime soon – QNAP still dominates the market on Thunderbolt NAS devices that allow such a feature.

The GEM10 arriving with two 2.5G ports is mixed news really. Obviously, these two (even if your NAS OS of choice supports LAG, Trunking, SMB MultiChannel or even Load Balancing) mean a total network connection potential of 550MB/s or so (half a gigabyte) network throughput, so these are going to be massively oversaturated with even a single SSD inside. That said, there are still a lot of users who will be happy with this (at least you have 2x ports for failover) as they prioritize internal performance, IOPS and throughput for complex databases, VMs, containers and more. Given the scale of the system, you won’t be surprised to learn that a PCIe slot is simply not available for any kind of NIC upgrade card. You CAN use 2.5G/5G-to-USB adapters (again, NAS OS dependant) as the system has several USB ports available, but the system also arrives with another trick up its sleeve – oCuLink.

OCuLink is a relatively new kind of technology that allows the benefits and scalability of PCIe to be available over an external connection. Hotswapping and plug-n-play is still not in anyway advised, but it does mean that the GEM10 has the potential to add PCIe-connected hardware upgrades (via supports Oculink-to-PCIe enclosures). oCuLink is predominantly associated with eGPU upgrades to allow the power of graphics cards to be added to systems with ease, but the potential to use this for improved network connectivity with 10G/25G/100G cards is MASSIVE!

Noise-wise, I cannot say that the GEM10 is silent by any means. Because of the two FANS inside (base and CPU fan) during peak periods, the ambient noise was noticeable. It was still very much on a small scale and the only really problematic at less than 1 metre distance, but they were definitely there! In idle, the fans were non-existent in noise and I had to check a couple of times to see that it was on! But when the SSDs were in heavy write (as well as during the initial 15 secs of boot), the fans were around 32-35 db.

The power use of the Aoostar GEM10 was pretty reasonable. Obviously, we have to factor in that this is an exclusively M.2 NVMe system and therefore this does seemingly scale the power use down, but this is still a pretty beefy CPU inside (comparative to the non SoC version of course). Idle power use was a conservative 10-12W (this was after the initial boot, running UnRAID and then the system was left to go into IDLE, with all drives in idle).

During heavy active use (UnRAID, accessing all drives and the CPU at 50-60% utilization) the power use was at 34-38W. Had this been a SATA HDD system, it would likely have hit the 50-60W scale easily. Pretty good for the size of the system.

Keep in mind that the CPU supports power adjustment at BIOS and, depending on your NAS OS choice, could result in even better power consumption numbers in your own bespoke setup. Overall, I am not going to say that the GEM10 gives you anything incredible in the connectivity department – but I will say that it is a complete gamechanger when compared to what is on offer from the bulk of Mini-PC NAS hybrid devices in the market. Aoostar have clearly spent serious time and R&D to finesse their NAS range (the GEM10, GEM12, R1 and R7 series are great examples) that are designed to be more than just a mini PC that is pretending to be a NAS. The GEM10 here has the kind of connectivity that I would love to see on more traditional turnkey NAS devices. But what good is all that connectivity, without the right H/W inside to fulfil it! Let’s discuss the internal hardware.

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The base of the system come away with the removal of four base screws. Doing so reveals the individual storage bays, the WiFi 6 wireless NIC structure and the base cooling and active fan provisioning.

The base fan is encased in its own panel and the intervening panel is a metal plate that sits directly connected to the M.2 SSDs. This is pretty smart (in a way) as it ensures that the heat being generated by the SSDs (Gen4 m.2 SSDs remember) will be passed (via the thermal pads) directly into the metal panel and dissipated into the airflow of the fan. Not an unusual method, but a smart tradeoff of the limited space and creative cooling.

The system arrives with three gen 4×4 SSD bays (according to the specifications tables, but there is room for debate, given the 4 different CPU configurations that are available in the Ryzen 7 7840HS, 7735H, 6800H and Ryzen 9 7940HS), so I will be digging into the BIOS and SSH later on to check. Plus, it becomes clear wh the included thermal pads that the GEM10 arrives with were so thin – there is very VERY little space between the individual M.2 bays and the metal fan-assisted panel. You can FORGET any kind of m.2 heatsinks in between, even particularly aggressive heatshields on SSDs are going to be a little tight.

If you purchase the pre-populated 1TB model, it arrives via a BIWIN 1TB Gen 3×4 SSD (available here for specs on Amazon). On the one hand, having an OS drive is always going to be handy, and in the case of some NAS OS such as TrueNAS, you need a clearly separate operating system OS drive target. But the drive being Gen3 means that you are already potentially underusing that Gen4 slot (you only have x3 total!). Additionally, if you plan on NAS software such as UnRAID (running from an USB) it means that you will need to replace this drive with something a little more uniform and higher performance soon-ish! Just a note to keep in mind when buying a pre-configured version of the GEM10.

Interestingly, another move by Aoostar here to manoeuver so much connectivity into this slim size (and be as efficient as possible with the 20 lanes afforded to that SoC Ryzen AMD chip) is that alongside those 3 Gen4 slots, they have added an adapter into a 4th slot that separates into a wireless NIC adapter slot and into that oCuLINK connector on a riser board. Obviously, this does bring up the question of removing the adapter card to remove wireless connectivity and the oCuLink, in favour of a 4th SSD. That’s one to ponder, for sure!

The WiFi 6 card is a fairly common $20-30 AX200NGW Intel adapter, that has 2×2 connectivity via two antennae that run from the card to two sides of the enclosure – so 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, and 800Mb and 1.2Gb wireless bands afforded to you. Once again, the NAS OS you use makes all the difference and very few NAS OS’ actually support wireless connectivity in both connections (i.e to attach the NAS to your WiFi network AND connecting to the NAS over WiFi directly as it’s on AP.

Accessing the underside of this board, to access that CPU proved very difficult, as it would undermine the later tests in this article (so I will be coming back to this at a later date and/or in the review). The CPU in the model I reviewed was the AMD Ryzen 7 6800HS mobile SoC and 32GB of memory (pre-attached via individual flash cells – no upgrading). The R7 6800HS integrates all eight cores based on the Zen 3+ microarchitecture. They are clocked at 3.2 (guaranteed base clock) to 4.7 GHz (Turbo) and support SMT / Hyperthreading (16 threads). The chip is manufactured on the modern 6 nm TSMC process. The HS variant offers a 10 W reduced TDP and therefore a lower sustained performance than the H version.

AMD Ryzen 7 6800HS

Product Family

AMD Ryzen Processors

Product Line

AMD Ryzen 7 Mobile Processors with Radeon Graphics

# of CPU Cores

8

# of Threads

16

Max. Boost Clock

Up to 4.7GHz

Base Clock

3.2GHz

L1 Cache

512KB

L2 Cache

4MB

L3 Cache

16MB

Default TDP

35W

Processor Technology for CPU Cores

TSMC 6nm FinFET

Unlocked for Overclocking

No

CPU Socket

FP7

Max. Operating Temperature (Tjmax)

95°C

*OS Support

Windows 11 – 64-Bit Edition

Windows 10 – 64-Bit Edition

RHEL x86 64-Bit

Ubuntu x86 64-Bit

*Operating System (OS) support will vary by manufacturer

PCI Express® Version

PCIe® 4.0

System Memory Type

DDR5

Memory Channels

2

Max Memory Speed

4x1R

DDR5-4800

4x1R

LPDDR5-6400

Graphics Model

AMD Radeon 680M

Graphics Core Count

12

Graphics Frequency

2200 MHz

The new Zen 3+ is a refresh of the Zen 3 architecture and should not offer a lot of changes. The chip itself however, offers a lot of new features, like support for USB 4 (40 Gbps), PCI-E Gen 4, DDR5-4800MT/s or LPDDR5-6400MT/s, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth LE 5.2, DisplayPort 2, and AV1 decode. A big novelty is the integrated GPU Radeon 680M, that is now based on the RDNA2 architecture and offers 12 CUs at up to 2.2 GHz. It should be the fastest iGPU at the time of announcement. This Ryzen 7 has a default TDP of 35 W (also known as the long-term power limit). Which is definitely too high to allow for passively cooled designs. The CPU is cooled by a pre-attached double copper pipe radiator that fans out into the edges of the case.

The scope of this processor is great and exactly the kind of processor you would want if you want to have fast and stable performance from a RAID’d group of SSDs in such a compact system. The fixed memory, although of a decent amount at 32GB (4x 8GB Cells, attached to PCB, not SODIMM), is annoying that it is fixed – additionally, there have been mixed reports online supporting the overclocked speed potential of the LPDDR5-6400 in this configuration.

Plus, there is a lot of ‘grey’ when it comes to ECC support here too – as the 6800HS DOES support ECC memory, but it is very much BIOS, physical config and OS dependant to a degree – so ECC is only really going to be a ‘thing’ here if Aoostar have included it! All that aside, if you are less interested in hardware tinkering and OC’ing the architecture and just looking for fast and stable performance in the default config 0 this has ALOT of the building blocks in hardware that you would want to see on a competent flash NAS.

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Software and Performance

The Aoostar GEM10 NAS unit I received arrived with Windows 11 on board and an included OS SSD (this drive is available included, alongside the 32GB pre-attached memory). This software will almost certainly be abandoned after purchase, in favour of the system having UnRAID, TrueNAS, OMV, etc installed by the end user, but whilst it was there, I took a moment to check the Geekbench scores for the CPU and GPU. The GEM10 scored a highly respectable 2039/9435 Single/multi core rating.

The GPU score (something that many plex/vm/container users are going to be concerned with) was pretty good for a smaller class system, at 29336.

Digging into the terminal/SSH we were able to learn a little more about the PCIe allocation across the system. That SSD that was included with the device in m.2 NVMe SSD Bay #1 was indeed a PCIe Gen 4×4 slot, without any kind of downgrade in place – nice to see!

Likewise, slots 2 and 3 were also both 4×4 and not downgrade – surprisingly rare in 2024, with so many flash systems in the market needing to lower the speeds of m.2 bays for reasons of resource use, bifurcation or just heat generation.

Performance testing on these bays was reasonable, with the Seagate Ironwolf 525 SSD (with a reported maximum performance of 5GB/5,000MB/s) hitting in excess of 4GB/s Read on sustained/repeated 1GB file tests.

Likewise, the maximum reported write performance of this drive of 4.4GB/s / 4,400MB/s by Seagate, was not too far off the 3.85GB/s average performance that the drive reached in the GEM10 in sustained 1GB write testing.

Then I tested the performance of copying data between 2 of the M.2 NVMe SSDs. This ended up hitting quite a low number at 1.155GB/s. This was not unusual (shared channel/lane etc vs system overhead etc). but I would have liked/hoped to have at least seen this hit closer to 2GB at least. Still not, terrible, just not great.

The top performance you should be expecting will be MASSIVELY influenced by the drives you chose to use and the NAS OS you choose to install. In the UnRAID and Seagate 525 Ironwolf setup I use, the power use, noise, performance and response times I observed were all pretty solid. But there’s plenty of room for improvement/error in other configurations compared with a standard turnkey solution, especially at this scale.

I reached out to Aoostar on some of the areas of this GEM10 Review that users frequently asked about with Mini PC styled NAS devices, and Aoostar was able to provide the answers to the most recurring questions below

Q – Why Does the Aoostar GEM10 not have ECC Memory?

A – On the subject of ECC, currently 95% of the mini computers on the market don’t support ECC memory, it’s not that we don’t want to get it that way, it’s restricted by some part of the authority, so it leads to most of the mini computers on the market don’t support ECC memory at the moment. However DDR5 does support on die ECC, which provide a similar level of data inconsistency protection.

Q – Why is the Aoostar GEM10 at a maximum 32GB of memory when the CPU supports more?

A – Unfortunately, there is no 64G of inlay RAM available at this scale and deployment, it’s not that we don’t want to do this configuration. If you want to use dual-channel DDR5 RAM like other models, then the size will be bigger, and it will not be able to meet the “mini size” we advertise. But the 32G RAM capacity is good enough for most uses

Q – With so many configurations of the GEM10 and GEM12 series, how does a buyer avoid confusion on what they need?

A – In view of your confusion about the configuration of the GEM10 series of CPUs, let me introduce you to the GEM10 series of CPUs: GEM10 AMD R7 6800H CPU (inlaid memory 32G); GEM10 AMD R7 7735H CPU (inlaid memory 16G, currently discontinued); GEM10 AMD R7 7840HS CPU (32G of inlay memory); GEM10 AMD R9 78940HS CPU (32G of inlay memory). The best price/performance ratio is the GEM10 6800H CPU, but as a company that puts a lot of money into R&D and seeks to produce cost-effective products, the GEM10 Intel N100 SKU (32G of inlaid memory) is already ready, but we are still testing it for the engineering machine, and it should be officially launched in a few months.

Q – Why does the GEM10 use USB4 and not Thunderbolt4?

A – About Thunderbolt and USB4 ports. As we all know, the Thunderbolt interface is Intel’s project, so they produce their own mini-computers are equipped with the Thunderbolt interface. USB4 interface is more open, AMD does not have a proprietary interface of the project, and they, as a competitor to INTEL, want to get the authorization of the Thunderbolt interface is in fact very difficult, which is why the market is equipped with the AMD mini-computer are USB4 interface! . Our company will also launch the INTEL series of minicomputers next month, but I still don’t know whether the project team will license these minicomputers with Thunderbolt interfaces or USB4 interfaces

 

AOOSTAR GEM10 SSD NAS Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The Aoostar GEM10 is making some pretty bold hardware promises, given it’s scale! The ‘dazzle’ of how powerful mini PCs have been getting in the last few years has definitely become a little duller, as it grows more common. But given how Aoostar has merged this into a much more NAS-tailored system in a meaningful way that clearly cost some $ at the R&D level needs to be appalled. This is not a small SSD NAS with is covered in Mini-PC caveats – this IS a NAS and one that I think might well be the most powerful for it’s scale in the market right now (especially at $499+). That said, it certainly ain’t perfect! Network scalability is a mixed bag, the way memory has been approached (in architecture and ECC support) is debatable, the CPU choices in the range of 4 with the differing process and PCIe layouts is a bit baffling and the full utility of oCuLink in this NAS context is still far from fleshed out. BUT, There are prosumer concerns for the more technically minded and IT sophisticated, which I think does not make up the bulk of this device’s target demographic. I struggle to call this system turn-key (due to it’s lack of an included NAS OS, even a 3rd party one, as seen in the UnRAID license-ready LincStation N1), but it’s certainly miles more user-friendly than full DiY. I have often spoken of the growing middle ground between full NAS DiY from the ground up and full ‘out the box’ turnkey from brands like Synology and QNAP. The Aoostar GEM10 is a FANTASTIC example of the kind of product that can evolve from this – well build, powerful, 3rd party OS ready and a step above the churned-out chinese budget fodder found elsewhere in the ‘pre-built OS free NAS sector’. Recommended – IF you have the time to set it up right!

PROS of the GEM10 Flash NAS

CONs of the GEM10 Flash NAS

Insanely Compact, especially for the hardware configuration 8 cores and 16 threads to play with on an SSD NAS – Yum Yum Dual LAN Connectivity = failover USB 4 Support and 4x 10G USB oCuLink inclusion is unusual, but adds potential scalability 32GB LP Memory TONNES of cooling and ventilation No 3rd party NAS OS Locks or Limitations Gen 4 Architecture on the SSD Bays Scope to add a 4th M.2 SSD Bay (removing oCulink and WiFi6 Card)

Low Noise, but definitely not silent! ECC Support and Memory overclocking is debatable Confusion of CPU configurations

Where to Buy? Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (AliExpress $465) – HERE Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (7940HS Amazon) – HERE Aoostar GEM12 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (7840HS Amazon) – HERE Aoostar GEM10 3x Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe NAS (6800H Amazon) – HERE

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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.

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Review of the TerraMaster D5 Hybrid Storage System

In this review, we delve into the TerraMaster D5 Hybrid Storage System, a versatile and cost-effective solution designed to meet the diverse storage needs of both personal users and small businesses. Combining the high capacity of traditional HDDs with the rapid performance of NVMe SSDs, the D5 Hybrid offers an intriguing mix of speed and storage capabilities within a single device. It features user-friendly design elements like tool-free drive installation and moderate operational noise levels, all while leveraging USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity. This review explores the system’s specifications, performance, and overall value to help potential buyers determine if it aligns with their data storage and management requirements.

Find out more about the bigger Terramaster D8 Hybrid System HERE on Kickstarter

Note – You can watch the full YouTube Review and Benchmarks of the Terramaster D5 Hybrid storage system HERE

Specification	Details
Dimensions	222 x 119 x 154 mm
Weight	1.3 kg
Power Supply	40 W (100V to 240V AC) 50/60 HZ, Single Phase
System Fan	80 mm x 80 mm x 25 mm (x1)
Maximum Noise Level	19.0 dB(A) (Using 2 SATA HDDs/SSDs in standby mode)
Compatible Disk Types	3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA SSD
Compatible NVMe	M.2 2280 NVMe Slot (x3)
Raw Capacity	Up to 68 TB (22 TB HDD x 2 + 8 TB NVMe x 3)
Supported RAID Configurations	SINGLE DISK, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
HDD Sleep Mode	Yes
Connectivity	USB3.2 Type-C gen2 (10Gbps), DC IN 12V Barrelport
Price	€239.99 – $219.99

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Introduction to the TerraMaster D5 Hybrid

The TerraMaster D5 Hybrid is engineered to cater to the evolving demands of personal and small business storage by amalgamating traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) with the swift, modern NVMe solid-state drives (SSDs). This system includes two versatile SATA bays that support both 3.5″ and 2.5″ drives and three M.2 NVMe slots, offering a broad spectrum of storage options. It utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity, capable of reaching speeds up to 1000 MB/s. However, this setup prompts a discussion about the possible limitations of USB connectivity when used with high-performance storage technologies, potentially creating bottlenecks that could affect data transfer speeds.

Exploring the Design and Build

The D5 Hybrid showcases a durable and user-friendly design consistent with Terramaster’s latest NAS models. The system facilitates easy installation of drives with its tool-free “click and load” mechanism, suitable even for users without technical expertise.

The operational noise level is moderately low, which is a crucial consideration for use in shared spaces like small offices or home environments.

The storage solution accommodates up to two HDDs and three NVMe SSDs but opts out of including faster interface technologies such as Thunderbolt to maintain an affordable price point. This choice might restrict the performance potential of the system but makes the D5 Hybrid more accessible financially to a broader audience.

ASMedia and Realtek are two prominent players in the semiconductor industry, particularly known for their contributions to the development of chips that handle data connectivity and processing in various electronic devices.

ASMedia, a subsidiary of ASUS, specializes in high-speed interface technology, particularly USB and PCIe bridge solutions. Notably, their chips are pivotal in enhancing the performance of USB connections. For example, the ASM3042 is a significant advancement in their USB controller lineup, bridging PCI Express to USB3.2 and providing support for legacy USB functions. This chip showcases ASMedia’s capability to deliver high bandwidth and efficient power management, essential for maintaining low power consumption in various devices

In 2022, ASMedia became one of the first to introduce a USB4 host-controller, the ASM4242, designed to support high data transmission speeds up to 64 Gbps, making it backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and other protocols. The incorporation of ASMedia’s ASM4242, a high-performance USB4 host controller, into a device configuration represents a significant step towards future-proofing data transfer capabilities. The ASM4242 supports up to 64 Gbps of bandwidth, providing a robust solution for high-speed data, video, and power transmission over a single USB connection. This level of integration ensures that devices are not only meeting current standards but are also prepared for next-generation needs, with backward compatibility ensuring a broad range of device support.

Realtek’s contributions, while more commonly associated with their audio and network solutions, also extend to data interface technologies. Realtek chips are crucial for managing data transmission and ensuring compatibility across a vast ecosystem of computing and multimedia devices. Their technology helps to stabilize and optimize the data flow, critical for the functionality of hybrid storage systems where data integrity and speed are paramount.

Detailed Performance Assessment

The performance of the D5 Hybrid was meticulously tested under various configurations to truly understand its capabilities and limitations. Configuring the device with two Seagate 24TB Ironwolf Pro Series HDDs in a RAID 1 setup, the system demonstrated robust performance with peak write speeds reaching 262 MB/s. This configuration allowed for transferring 20 GB of data in slightly over two minutes.

When equipped with SSDs, the system’s performance increased notably. Using a single Kingston 500 GB M.2 NVMe SSD, the peak transfer speed observed was 572 MB/s, reducing the 20 GB data transfer time to around 1 minute and 14 seconds. Moreover, employing two Kingston DC600M enterprise-grade SATA SSDs in a RAID 1 configuration yielded the highest recorded speed of 630 MB/s, allowing for the fastest data transfer rate of just over a minute for 20 GB.

These tests underscore that although the D5 Hybrid doesn’t exhaust the full potential of its 10G external connection, it functions efficiently within the confines of its USB interface. This suggests a careful balance between performance and cost, ensuring adequate speed for standard tasks without the premium price tag associated with higher-end interfaces like Thunderbolt.

Is This a Comparative Market?

The D5 Hybrid is strategically positioned in the market to appeal to users who prioritize reliable performance over cutting-edge speed. It serves well for small to medium business applications, home offices, and creative professionals who require a dependable storage solution. The device offers an appealing alternative to more expensive options by providing sufficient speed for everyday tasks, including data backup and accessing large files, without compromising on quality or reliability.

Its cost-effectiveness paired with versatile storage capabilities makes the D5 Hybrid a formidable competitor in the hybrid storage market. It’s particularly attractive for budget-conscious buyers who still require a robust storage solution that can handle a mix of data types and usage scenarios.

Final Verdict and Conclusion of the Terramaster D5 Hybrid

The TerraMaster D5 Hybrid excels in blending the high capacity of HDDs with the quick data access speeds of SSDs, housed within a single, efficient unit. The system’s design emphasizes user-friendliness with features like tool-less drive installation and low operational noise, making it an excellent choice for a variety of settings, from busy office environments to quiet home use. However, potential users should weigh the impact of the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, which, while sufficient for many applications, might not meet the needs of those requiring the fastest possible data transfer speeds. The absence of Thunderbolt technology is a noted limitation, but this is reflected in the D5 Hybrid’s competitive pricing, which targets a segment of the market more concerned with value and reliability than with leading-edge performance. The TerraMaster D5 Hybrid offers a well-rounded solution for those seeking a storage system that combines large storage capacity with respectable speeds at a cost-effective price point. Its performance, although not pushing the upper limits of current technology, provides ample support for most professional and personal storage needs, making it a worthwhile investment for a broad range of users. The thoughtful design and practical features, coupled with the device’s solid build and reliable performance within its defined limits, establish the D5 Hybrid as a standout offering in its category.

PROs of the Terramaster D5 Hybrid

CONs of the Terramaster D5 Hybrid

Good sustained performance (if you preferred that to ‘Peak’ performance Low Power Use and Low Noise Good internal processor choices, especially for the price point NAS Supported, so can be used as a tiered expansion box Very simple to use Mac/Windows Supported (even worked connected to my Android phone!) Almost completely toolless Solid build and good ‘feel’ Supports 8TB M.2 NVMes (Tested Addlink A95 8TB 2280 NVMe) HDD Bay 1+2 are RAID Supported Affordable!

Software is limited and Premium features require a subscription Peak performance is much lower than what you would expect, despite 3×1 speed (max 1GB) on each m.2 USB 10Gb/s is going to be a bummer for those thinking about the real speed that 3x m.2 SSDs could hit. Disappointing that there is no USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (40Gb/s) or USB4/TB4 Version

Should You Back or Bail on the UGREEN NASync Kickstarter Campaign?

With the UGREEN NAS campaign drawing close to an end, I think a lot of users are wondering where exactly the UGREEN NAS system is at? So, SO many reviews online (more on how/why later), but it’s been a month – has the system got better, got worse? Do the comments in those reviews still hold water? I wanted to assemble a few of the earliest and more balanced reviewers I could find who have shared their thoughts on the UGREEN NAS online and chat to them a month later to get their further input on it. I assembled panel, consisting of Me (Robbie from NASCompares) ,Lauri from Tech Notice, Frank from WunderTech and Logan from TwoGuyzTech — to come back to the system and brand, to help users decide whether they should get off the fence and back it, keep continuing to back this Kickstarter Campaign, or ‘get off’ the hype train now before its too late. These three YouTube reviewers and myself were among the first to receive and review the NASync series more than a month ago. Although their reviews are now live, UGREEN have continued to roll out updates to the system software, posted comments and updates on their crowdfunding campaign and outlined a lot of their proposed plans for these new systems. How much of that is going to be present in the finished product, how much is long-term roadmap stuff and how much is just hot air, is up for debate.

I wanted to talk with these three reviewers 1 month later to discuss where they are at with the UGREEN NAS device they were sent, have things improved and their thoughts on what this means for the NAS market. The Kickstarter has been notably successful, raising nearly 5 million pounds with more than 12,000 backers, necessitating a critical and informed analysis for those considering investment. As good as all that sounds, a lot of users who backed this project a month ago at launch might be having cold feet and want to know where the product is ‘at’ now, as updates by UGREEN during the fundraising period have been a little sparse (though responding to commentors has been better). Likewise, there are going to be more cautious users who are still on the fence and just want to know where the NASync series is at ‘at the 11th hour’ before they choose to back this. So, here is the results of that discussion. Thanks again to Lauri, Frank and Logan for their time. None of us have been paid/sponsored by UGREEN for this content or our reviews, these are our own opinions (the good and the bad!).

VIDEO LINK

In a Rush? Here is the TL:DR on The UGREEN NAS 1 Month On

Logan @TwoGuyzTech – Logan, who provided the inaugural review of the DXP 4800 Plus model, begins by praising UGREEN’s capabilities in hardware manufacturing. He describes the unit as robust, featuring an impressive CPU setup with a unique configuration that lends itself well to demanding tasks. Despite this, Logan highlights significant discrepancies between the marketed and actual features—particularly the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support, despite promotional materials suggesting otherwise. This, he argues, could mislead potential buyers about the product’s capabilities. Expanding on hardware limitations, Logan critiques the system’s scalability and expansion potential. Unlike competitors like Synology, which allow for easy scalability through expansion units, UGREEN’s system lacks similar functionalities. This could deter users whose storage needs might grow. Moreover, the absence of a PCIe slot for adding extra network interfaces is seen as a missed opportunity to enhance the system’s connectivity and performance capabilities, potentially limiting its appeal to more advanced users.

Frank @Wundertech – Frank shifts the focus to the software side of the NAS. He appreciates UGREEN’s strategic decision to concentrate on core functionalities, which simplifies the user interface and system maintenance. This approach, according to Frank, allows for a more stable foundational system that can be incrementally improved through updates. However, he identifies critical deficiencies in the backup functionalities that are vital for NAS systems. Initially, the device was limited to basic R-Sync and proprietary UGREEN device backups, which he found inadequate. During his testing, Frank encountered significant issues with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, a standard service for file sharing over a network. He discovered that upon attempting to access the NAS via SMB, he had unrestricted access to all directories without needing authentication—a severe security flaw. This issue indicates that the NAS system might not enforce proper user authentication, potentially exposing sensitive data. Despite updates attempting to address these concerns, the initial oversight raises questions about the rigor of UGREEN’s software testing and security protocols.

Lauri @TheTechNotice – Lauri offers a broader critique of the tech industry’s trend towards launching unpolished products with the intent to issue fixes post-launch. He expresses his frustration with the UGREEN system, which was marketed as ready-to-use yet exhibited numerous software glitches and usability issues upon receipt. Basic functionalities like software updates and file access were problematic, echoing a “release now, fix later” approach that he finds unacceptable. Lauri also faced SMB-related challenges, albeit different from Frank’s. His attempts to connect to the NAS via SMB were thwarted by the system’s inability to map network drives or properly save SMB settings, suggesting deeper issues with the software’s network handling capabilities. These experiences highlight inconsistencies in the product’s performance, further complicating the potential user’s decision-making process.

Marketing Strategies, Consumer Impact and Conclusion – The panel extensively discusses UGREEN’s marketing strategy, noting the company’s decision to flood the market with review units. This approach, while ensuring widespread visibility, may dilute the impact of individual reviews and obscure critical feedback due to the sheer volume of content available. Such a strategy can mask the product’s deficiencies, making it difficult for potential buyers to gauge the system’s reliability and performance accurately. Concluding the discussion, the panel agrees that while UGREEN’s NAS hardware is commendably robust and well-designed, the software side lags in maturity and reliability. They stress the importance for potential backers to understand the ongoing development of the software, especially given the critical SMB issues and general lack of software polish at launch.

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What did Lauri from TheTechNotice Think of the UGREEN NAS Range 1 Month on, How the Brand Approached the Market and His Experience with the Device?

Lauri from Tech Notice offers a unique perspective by critiquing not just the Ugreen NAS SYNC series but also the broader tech industry’s trend toward releasing products that are not fully vetted or complete. He starts his discussion by expressing a general dissatisfaction with the practice of launching products that are ostensibly unfinished, with the intention of resolving issues through later updates. This approach, he argues, places undue burden on consumers who expect a finished, fully functional product upon purchase. Lauri’s frustration is rooted in his personal experiences with the Ugreen NAS, which was marketed as ready-to-use but exhibited several software glitches and usability issues right out of the box. He details problems such as difficulties with software updates and accessing files—basic functionalities that were inconsistent or non-functional upon initial use. Such issues underscore a “release now, fix later” philosophy that he finds unacceptable, especially when consumers are not adequately forewarned about the state of the product.

Expanding on his critique, Lauri discusses his specific encounters with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol within the Ugreen system. Unlike Frank’s experience where access was too permissive, Lauri faced the opposite problem: an inability to effectively map network drives or adjust SMB settings. This inconsistency in SMB protocol handling between units further illustrates the lack of uniformity and reliability in Ugreen’s software development, complicating the user experience and diminishing the product’s reliability. Moreover, Lauri notes the NAS’s aesthetic and physical design, acknowledging that while the hardware appears polished and well-designed, the software does not match this quality. This disparity leads to a jarring contrast between the product’s promising physical presentation and its underwhelming functional performance. He points out that such discrepancies can lead to consumer distrust, as the sleek design sets expectations that the software functionality currently does not meet.

Throughout his review, Lauri also touches upon the responsiveness of the company to feedback. While he notes some improvements following user complaints and updates, he emphasizes that the fundamental approach of rushing products to market remains a significant concern. This strategy, prevalent in the tech industry, often results in products that require considerable post-market modification to reach the standard expected by consumers at launch. Lauri’s assessment provides a critical analysis of the Ugreen NAS SYNC series, particularly highlighting the problematic industry trend of premature product releases. His insights stress the importance of aligning product functionality with consumer expectations and market standards. Lauri’s critique serves as a call to action for tech companies to prioritize thorough testing and development before launch, ensuring that products meet all advertised functionalities and security standards to foster trust and satisfaction among users.

You Can find out more about Lauri HERE on his YouTube Channel

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How Did Frank from WunderTech Find his time with the UGREEN NAS System? Did He Encounter Problems and Would He Recommend it?

Frank from WunderTech begins his discussion by highlighting the strategic focus Ugreen has adopted in the development of their NAS SYNC series software. He appreciates the company’s deliberate choice to concentrate on refining core features instead of overloading the system with an extensive array of applications. This approach, he argues, facilitates a more stable base system that is easier for users to manage and for developers to troubleshoot and improve over time. It also aligns well with Ugreen’s apparent goal of making the NAS user-friendly and reliable in performing fundamental tasks. However, Frank identifies critical deficiencies in the system’s software, especially concerning its backup functionalities—an essential component for NAS systems. Initially, the device was constrained to basic R-Sync and backups to another proprietary Ugreen device. Such limitations significantly reduce the utility and appeal of the NAS for users who need versatile and robust backup solutions, which are critical for data integrity and disaster recovery. Frank notes that while subsequent software updates have introduced additional features like Docker, which broadens the system’s capabilities and appeal, the core issue with limited backup options remains a significant concern.

During his evaluation, Frank encountered severe issues with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, a standard service in NAS systems for sharing files over networks. He was startled to find that upon attempting to access the NAS via SMB, he had unrestricted access to all directories without needing any form of user authentication. This discovery points to a severe security oversight, exposing sensitive data to potential unauthorized access. Such a fundamental flaw in access control is troubling and raises questions about the robustness of Ugreen’s software security measures. Frank further discusses the implications of these security issues, emphasizing the risk they pose not only to data confidentiality but also to the overall trust in Ugreen’s product. He suggests that while the hardware may be solid, the software’s inability to ensure basic security protocols could deter potential users who prioritize data security. This aspect is crucial for businesses and individual users who rely on NAS systems to store sensitive or critical information.

Moreover, Frank appreciates the incremental software updates that Ugreen has been rolling out, which demonstrate the company’s commitment to addressing feedback and improving the product. He highlights a particular update that resolved some of the earlier problems with the backup options, albeit still not to the extent that he considers fully satisfactory. The addition of features like Docker is viewed positively as it indicates Ugreen’s responsiveness to user needs and their willingness to expand the system’s functionality over time. Frank’s analysis provides a detailed critique of the Ugreen NAS SYNC series from a software perspective. He credits the company for its focused and strategic approach to software development but underscores significant areas of concern, particularly around security and backup functionalities. His insights suggest that while the hardware may be competitive, the software requires substantial improvements to meet industry standards and user expectations, particularly in areas crucial for data security and flexibility in data management.

You Can find out more about Frank HERE on his YouTube Channel

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What did Logan from TwoGuyzTech Think of the UGREEN NAS and where it is at 1 Month Later?

Logan from TwoGuyzTech, who provided the inaugural review of the DXP 4800 Plus model, begins his feedback by praising the robustness and overall hardware quality of Ugreen’s NAS system. He emphasizes the powerful CPU configuration, which features a single performance core along with four efficiency cores. This setup is particularly notable as it is uncommon in NAS systems within the same price bracket, offering potentially higher processing speeds and better handling of multiple tasks simultaneously. Despite the strong hardware foundation, Logan points out significant discrepancies between Ugreen’s marketing materials and the actual product features—specifically, the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support on half of the range, yet it was very prominent in the advertising (as was the 10GbE connectivity). This issue is not just a minor oversight; it’s a major deviation from what was advertised in terms of what some less knowledgable users would expect to receive, which could mislead potential buyers about the product’s capabilities. Logan stresses that such discrepancies could erode trust and satisfaction among consumers, who may feel they are not getting the full value as promised.

Further expanding on the product’s hardware, Logan notes that while the NAS performs well in its current state, the lack of scalability is a critical downside. He compares the Ugreen NAS SYNC series unfavorably with competitors like Synology, which offers easy scalability through additional expansion units. This limitation in Ugreen’s design means that users with increasing data storage needs would find the product less useful over time as their requirements grow. Logan also criticizes the absence of a PCIe slot, which would allow users to add additional network interfaces or other expansions. This feature is typically valued by advanced users who may need more customization or additional bandwidth for data-intensive tasks. The lack of such a feature further narrows the potential user base of the product, making it less appealing to a segment of the market that could benefit from greater connectivity options.

Addressing another aspect of hardware capability, Logan discusses the system’s input/output options. While he acknowledges that the NAS provides adequate I/O ports that should meet the needs of most users, he points out that the implementation of these ports could have been optimized better to enhance performance further. This feedback suggests a missed opportunity to maximize the hardware’s potential, which could have differentiated the Ugreen NAS SYNC series more clearly from its competitors. Logan’s detailed review provides a nuanced perspective on the Ugreen NAS SYNC series. While he commends the robust hardware and CPU design, he is critical of the marketing misrepresentations and the system’s limitations in scalability and expansion. His feedback underscores the importance of aligning marketing messages with actual product capabilities and designing with future scalability in mind to meet the evolving needs of users.

You Can find out more about Logan HERE on his YouTube Channel

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How UGREEN have Approached Marketing and Launching the NASync Series – Good or Bad?

The UGREEN NAS SYNC series marketing strategy reflects a robust and aggressive approach aimed at capturing market attention quickly and broadly. UGREEN’s decision to distribute a large number of review units (possibly in the hundreds in just a matter of weeks) prior to the completion of its Kickstarter campaign ensured that the product received widespread visibility across various media platforms. This saturation strategy is not uncommon in the tech industry but stands out due to the volume of units distributed and the breadth of coverage sought. From a marketing perspective, this approach can significantly amplify product awareness and generate buzz, creating a groundswell of potential customer interest and engagement early in the product lifecycle – choosing to spend their ‘marketing budget’ on sending products to small-niche reviewers and influences, rather than traditional online marketing and targeting bigger platforms. However, this aggressive marketing strategy also raises several concerns. One major issue discussed by the panel is the potential dilution of individual reviews’ impact. With so many reviews available, it becomes challenging for consumers to find consistent information and form a clear opinion about the product’s quality and reliability. This could inadvertently mask critical feedback that might be crucial for potential users making informed purchasing decisions. Additionally, by flooding the market with review units, UGREEN risks creating a perception that might not fully align with the user experience, particularly if the product under-delivers compared to what is seen in widespread positive reviews.

Moreover, there was always an inherent risk in UGREEN’s approach regarding consumer trust. If the product failed to meet the expectations set by its aggressive marketing, it could lead to customer dissatisfaction and damage the brand’s reputation in the long run if a LARGE number of reviewers had encountered persistent issues and that would have been heavility publized in turn. Therefore we have to give them some credit for the courage of their convictions to trust that their product would not ‘hang itself’ in the court of public opinion, when sent at such high volume in a comparatively unfinished state. This is especially pertinent given the software issues highlighted during the panel discussion. The strategy of relying heavily on post-launch updates to address fundamental flaws—flaws that are sometimes glossed over due to the sheer volume of initial positive reviews—could backfire, leading to frustrated users who feel misled by the reviews they consulted before purchasing. While UGREEN’s marketing strategy for the NAS SYNC series has virtues in terms of reach and visibility, it also poses significant risks that hinge on the company’s ability to deliver a product that truly matches the expectations set forth in its widespread marketing campaign. The approach requires a delicate balance between aggressive marketing and product quality assurance to maintain and grow consumer trust. This all brings into question once again, why a brand this large has opted for crowdfunding through Kickstarter – as it is fairly clear that this is a product that is either (in terms of hardware) finished and in production already, or at the very least is more than ready for ‘pre order’ if it had been on sale at your local eShop. The marketing and ‘user interest’ benefits of Kickstarter are useful, but the ‘indie’ and ‘small business’ focus of crowdfunding continues to diminish!

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Should You Back the UGREEN NAS Kickstarter? Or Should You Back Out Now?

Based on the detailed discussions from Frank, Lauri, Robbie, and Logan, the consensus on whether to recommend the UGREEN NAS SYNC series appears to be mixed and highly dependent on the specific needs and technical tolerance of potential users. Frank acknowledges the solid hardware and appreciates the strategic focus on core functionalities, which simplifies the user experience and system management. However, he is significantly concerned about the software’s maturity, particularly around security flaws with the SMB protocol and limited backup functionalities. Frank might recommend the NAS to tech-savvy users who are comfortable handling and potentially resolving these issues themselves, particularly those interested in leveraging the strong hardware by installing a third-party OS or those looking for a budget-friendly NAS solution that could improve over time with software updates.

Lauri, on the other hand, expresses strong reservations due to the “release now, fix later” philosophy he perceives in the tech industry, which he finds particularly evident in the UGREEN product. His experience with software glitches and poor user interface could deter him from recommending the NAS to users who expect a seamless, out-of-the-box experience. Lauri might only recommend this product to users who are enthusiasts or hobbyists who enjoy troubleshooting and have the patience to wait for potential fixes and updates that could eventually realize the hardware’s full potential.

Logan is broadly more positive about the system and, if the case of using a 3rd party OS (one you get over the installation hurdles) recommends the system. But still thinks that UGREEN could stand to be a little more clear in how the product is being presented, As a pre-built NAS product, especially at the crowdfunding price point, it’s hard to argue with. However, if/when the system crosses into traditional retail (with a loftier RRP), the virtues of the system’s value may well diminish and hopefully, UGREEN will maintain enthusiasm in the product range and software to roll in a phase 2, phase 3 and eventually an established product that can sand up next to the market leaders.

I (Robbie) acknowledge the potential of the hardware but am cautious about the software issues that have been repeatedly highlighted. I would certainly recommend the NAS to a niche market of users who value hardware specifications and cost-effectiveness over immediate, robust software functionality (the growing ‘middle’ between turnkey NAS and DiY Server Build Home-Labbers). These users would likely be those who are not dependent on advanced features or who have the technical ability to manage and mitigate the system’s current shortcomings. My recommendation would likely come with the caveat that buyers keep their expectations in check regarding the software and stay informed about ongoing updates and community feedback. Ultimately, while the UGREEN NAS SYNC series shows promise due to its robust hardware and competitive pricing, the recommendations from the panel are guarded and tailored to specific types of users. Potential buyers should weigh these considerations carefully against their personal or organizational needs and technical capabilities before making a decision.

Pros	Cons
Robust Hardware	Software Maturity
– The DXP 4800 Plus model features a powerful CPU setup with a single performance core and four efficiency cores, suitable for demanding tasks.	– The software has been criticized for being immature, with ongoing updates needed to address fundamental functionality and stability issues.
– Solid build quality and design that is recognized for its robustness, which adds to the reliability of the physical unit.	– Initial releases lacked comprehensive features, especially in backup functionalities which were limited to basic R-Sync and proprietary backups.
Scalability and Performance	Marketing vs Reality
– The hardware itself is recognized for high performance, which could be suitable for users with extensive data processing needs.	– Despite promotional materials suggesting advanced features like Thunderbolt 4 support, the actual product lacks these capabilities, leading to potential customer dissatisfaction and trust issues.
Focused Software Development	Security Concerns
– The strategy to concentrate on core functionalities rather than an abundance of features can lead to a more stable system that is easier to manage and troubleshoot.	– Significant security flaws were discovered, especially with the SMB protocol where authentication issues could expose sensitive data to unauthorized access.
Market Visibility	Expansion Limitations
– Extensive distribution of review units ensured widespread visibility and coverage, potentially increasing consumer awareness and interest.	– Compared to competitors like Synology, the UGREEN NAS system lacks easy scalability options such as expansion units, which limits the system’s long-term usability for growing storage needs.
Competitive Pricing	Inconsistent User Experience
– The UGREEN NAS offers a better value for its price point, especially when compared to the more expensive models from established brands like Synology and QNAP, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.	– Users, including tech reviewers, reported inconsistent experiences, particularly with software updates and SMB settings, which could deter potential users from adopting the system.

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UGREEN NASync DXP8800 PLUS Review

UGREEN continues to push forward with its NASync series of NAS devices and although the range is pretty broad, the device in the lineup that business/professional users are looking at as an affordable alternative to Synology and QNAP is the big 8-Bay model – The UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS. Pretty much the ‘top end’ model of the series, this is an 8 SATA and 2 Gen 4 M.2 NVMe SSD System, rolling out the gate with dual 10GbE connectivity, Thunderbolt 4 ports, a PCIe upgrade slot, an i5 10 Core Processor and up to 64GB of DDR5 memory. It’s ALOT. First arriving at $899 for early backers, now at $974, this system is a huge saving when compared with the $1899 Synology DS1823xs+ and $2000-3500 QNAP TVS-h874 series. But what is the catch? What compromises have UGREEN made? Ultimately, does the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS deserve your money and your data? Let’s discuss it in today’s review.

Other UGREEN NAS Reviews: The DXP4800 PLUS 4-BAY NAS Review – VIDEO – WRITTEN The DXP480T 4-BAY NVMe SSD NAS Review – VIDEO – WRITTEN The DXP8800 PLUS 8-BAY 10GbE NAS Review – VIDEO – WRITTEN

Important – The UGREEN DXP8800 Plus NAS is still in the mid stages of crowdfunding. The unit provided for review by UGREEN might not represent the finished product if/when crowdfunding is concluded and eventual fulfillment begins. UGREEN is an already long-established and trusted brand, but nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that this is still a product that is initially being made available via crowdfunding and therefore an element of additional care is always advised, compared with a comparable product purchased via traditional retail outlets.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Quick Conclusion

Much like the rest of the NASync series, the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS 8-Bay NAS is incredibly good value in terms of hardware and, if you are looking for the very best desktop NAS hardware for the price point available in the market – the DXP8800 PLUS is truly unbeatable in its specifications, build quality and overall physical presentation. Even going full ‘DiY’ and trying to build a system of this calibre yourself (case, cables, i5 embedded mobo, 2 port 10GbE card, 2 NVMe, 8 SATA, case, cooling, etc), you would struggle to beat the sub $999 of this system by a meaningful margin. Add to this the fact that UGREEN have now softened their stance on 3rd party NAS OS’ on their NAS devices having no aggressive impact on your 3-year hardware warranty has won a lot more users over, as the DXP8800 PLUS becomes the perfect TrueNAS or UnRAID NAS for users who don’t want the hassle of building from scratch, chasing multiple warranty’s and silicon paste under the fingernails! Genuinely, it is impossible to fault the DXP8800 PLUS on a hardware level (it’s not even that noisy, compared to other 8-Bay NAS in the market at least).

When it comes to software and performance, however, things are a little more complicated. The UGREEN NAS software (UGOS) is still very much in beta, and it feels likes it. The system (at time of writing) has still yet to complete initial crowdfunding and development of the software is still on-going (so we are still judging a software OS that hasn’t finished). But nevertheless, the absence of services such as 2 factor authentication, WORM, a comprehensive security monitor, volume encryption, a virtual machine hypervisor, broader 3rd party cloud sync and backup tools, etc – the absence of these (as well as inconsistencies in the software and performance, that arguably are possibly related to it’s beta status) lead to it being hard to recommend the DXP8800 PLUS on a software level. However, this system will not see physical fulfilment to backers till at least June/July at the very earliest, which is still a decent amount of time to polish the software and roll out beta’s of individual services that are promised on the UGREEN roadmap. Perhaps you are looking at the DXP8800 PLUS series for TrueNAS/UnRAID/OMV etc, or simply to set it up for local SMB storage for your backups and then use the docker app to run Plex. For those users, the DXP8800 is an absolute bargain. Just remember that we are still talking about Kickstarter and crowdfunding (still an odd move by such a big brand) and therefore this needs to be treated as such, not comparable to traditional retail! Overall, I am hugely impressed and look forward to seeing where this system, UGOS and UGREEN go in the exciting world of NAS in the next year or two. The DXP8800 PLUS is a BEAST of a NAS in terms of hardware, but the software is still WiP.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Presentation

You really do have to hand it to UGREEN. The presentation of the DXP8800 Plus is genuinely top-tier. This brand’s experience in computer accessories has clearly influenced the presentation of their NAS system, opting for glossy retail packaging that boldly showcases the system’s capabilities over a standard dull brown box.

Inside the shiny box is a well-organized shipping container, with the system secured by rigid foam and an accessory kit containing everything needed to get started. As previously mentioned, retail packaging and device protection during transit are often overlooked by brands, risking damage. Despite being largely unpopulated, except for an internal 2280 SSD for the OS, minimizing the risk of damage, the extra effort on protection is appreciated.

The DXP8800 Plus includes nearly everything needed for setup, aside from hard drives. Given the early stage of the system’s crowdfunding campaign, additional storage options may later become available.

The included kit, while basic, ensures users new to hosting their own servers have everything required.

It’s the attention to detail that impresses – from M.2 NVMe heat pads of notable quality and thickness for thermal dissipation, to the included Cat 7 network cables with high-quality gold/copper ends, differentiating them from standard cables.

Even the instruction manual, a rarity as most NAS brands now direct users online, stands out with its glossy presentation and offers more than basic setup guidance.

One thing I wanted to note (especially after reviewing the DXP4800 PLUS and DXP480T NAS systems previously) is that the DXP880 8-Bay NAS arrives with 3 years of warranty, when the bulk other devices in the series arrive with 2-Years. It’s a small but significant difference, as most users who are looking at 8-Bays of storage tend to be doing so for business-related use – so that extra year will certainly be noted and appreciated!

However, the choice of a 3rd party CWT internal power supply (PSU), though expected at this scale, given UGREEN’s reputation for high-quality power adapters and cables. While not a deal-breaker, it’s curious to see a non-UGREEN PSU used, especially when the DXP480t model reviewed elsewhere came with a branded UGREEN PSU. This inconsistency in their approach to PSUs is puzzling.

Overall, the presentation of the DXP8800 Plus from UGREEN, a newcomer to the NAS market intending to launch via Kickstarter, is exceptionally well done. Despite some accessory quality inconsistencies, the overall package is commendable for a pre-release sample. Now, let’s proceed to discuss the system’s design.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Design

At first glance, the DXP 8800 Plus appears to be a fairly standard 8 NAS enclosure, and you might be forgiven for thinking it’s just reiterating the typical case design prevalent among numerous companies. However, there’s more to its design and efficiency than meets the eye. For starters, the external enclosure is entirely metal, enhancing heat dissipation directly from the base panel housing the M.2 modules. Additionally, UGREEN has infused the design with their unique stylistic choices, evident in the presentation of individual bays and the arrangement and accessibility of various ports and connections.

The inclusion of small design flourishes, like the rear removable mesh metallic fan panel that magnetically attaches to the casing, is particularly appreciated. While such a feature is familiar to prosumer PC cases, it’s surprisingly rare in NAS designs – puzzling, given NAS systems’ continuous operation and higher likelihood of accumulating dust and debris. Despite being a relatively minor detail, this fan cover’s presence in UGREEN’s first product impresses me aesthetically and functionally.

The internal fans are two low noise standard 92mm PC fans, that can be fully controlled in their RPM by the system software manually, or left to automatically adapt to the system’s needs.

Handling individual storage bays, however, presents a mixed reaction. The bold numeric design distinguishes it aesthetically from other NAS brands that often opt for bland, nondescript bays. The tool-less, click-and-load trays that forego the need for a screwdriver for drive installation and the inclusion of individual locking mechanisms (with keys) are commendable features.

Yet, these trays feel somewhat flimsy compared to the more robust trays found in desktop solutions from Synology and QNAP. While they secure the hard drives and align with the internal enclosure runners, the internal locking mechanism doesn’t inspire confidence in its security. The trays’ perceived cheap production quality slightly detracts from the overall positive aesthetic. Despite this, the system supports the latest 22TB hard drives (testing of 24TB Seagate Ironwolf Pro HDDs in progress), which means daily interaction with these trays will be minimal.

The main storage area features a pre-constructed PCB with eight integrated SATA and power connectors. The system documentation indicates that SAS drives are unsupported, a non-issue for this system’s scale and price point.

Upon removing the base’s metallic panel, the two M.2 NVMe SSD bays and upgradable DDR5 SODIMM ports are revealed. Space constraints make heat sink installation challenging, but UGREEN has anticipated this with the inclusion of thick heat pads in the accessory kit, facilitating heat dissipation through the external casing.

UGREEN’s entry into 24/7 service storage with the DXP 8800 Plus is noteworthy, especially for a brand new to this sector. Their effort to differentiate through design and functionality is largely successful, although the storage trays’ quality could be improved. Overall, the system’s design is a strong point, and I look forward to discussing ports and connectivity next.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Power Consumption

The DXP8800 PLUS is a beefy system and although I was expecting the system to be a little greedy on the power consumption anyway, it was still arguably a pinch higher than I expected. Initially, UGREEN stated that the power consumption of the 2 and 4 bay systems would be (for general system load):

• DXP2800: Standby 16.77W (2*4TB HDD + 1*256GB SSD) / DXP2800: Standby 26.92W (2*8TB HDD + 1*256GB SSD)
• DXP4800: Standby 29.279W (2*4TB HDD + 1*256GB SSD) / DXP4800 Plus: Standby 30.608W (4*4TB HDD + 1*256GB SSD)
• DXP4800 Plus: Standby 51.437W (4*8TB HDD + 1*256GB SSD)

Now, let’s put those numbers into perspective. Below is the power consumption of the DXP8800 PLUS NAS, populated with 4x Toshiba MG 8TB Enterprise HDDs, 4x Kingston DC600M SATA 480GB SSDs and 2x Kingston KC3000 NVMes, in both Idle and Active:

Based on the figures that UGREEN provided for the DXP4800 PLUS, the DXP8800PLUS was using twice the power. On the face of it, this seems reasonable (the latter system IS twice the scale in almost every way – also using a 10 Core i5 vs a 5 Core Pentium). Nevertheless, this is quite a hungry system and users looking at an 8-Bay 10G system like this, when moving away from more modest 2/4-Bay systems should be aware!

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Noise Levels

next up, the noise levels (always tough to show in a written article!). If you want to HEAR the noise levels of the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS, then you can head HERE to this specific section of the DXP8800 PLUS YouTube Review. Otherwise, for the reported dBa levels of the system in standby and active, use the videos below:

Standy/Idle:

Active Use, Fans on ‘FULL’:

REALLY surprised at the noise level. Given the largely metal construction of the system, I expected it to hit the early 40’s in dBa, at the very least. But it was surprisingly low ambient volume (relative to other 8-Bay NAS of course). Then there is the fact that I used a combination of smaller 8TB HDDs and SSDs, which did reduce noise levels somewhat. If I had been using more aggressive 12-14TB HDDs, then the operational noise of these more industrial built drives would have been much different  – but then we would be measuring HDD noise and not system noise.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Ports and Connections

One of the earliest things to notice about the connectivity on offer on the DXP 8800 Plus NAS is that this system brings back support for SD cards. This may seem almost insane to the average photo and video editor, but SD card readers on NAS devices have been largely absent for almost a decade, despite enormous protestations from photo and video editors for years.

Therefore, it’s kind of impressive that UGREEN has opted to provide an SD card slot and a front-mounted USB Type-A 10Gbs connection, AND 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C conenctions on the DXP8800 Plus when practically every other brand in the NAS industry does not. It’s going to be a tremendously convenient feature for those wanting to ingest media directly into the system via numerous storage methods and camera systems, making it that much more convenient than many others in the market.

The front-mounted Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports can only be used with the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS as the ‘host’ and connected devices as ‘clients’. In ‘normal speak’, that means that these ports can only be used for accessories (storage etc) that are managed by the NAS. That means that currently you cannot use the Thunderbolt 3/4 USB-C port on your PC or Mac to connect with the NAS for a ‘Thunderbolt NAS’ connection, much as you would find from several QNAP Thunderbolt NAS (Guide on this HERE) devices.

Flipping the device around, we see that the system has even more USB ports that can be utilized by the system in a host-client relationship. That means that the UGREEN NAS system will act as the host device for connected storage drives and supported peripherals. Unfortunately, this does mean that you cannot directly connect to this device using those USB ports, and the USB 2.0 connections are pretty much exclusively designed for connecting printers and office peripherals, uninterruptible power supplies, or keyboard/mouse in KVM setups alongside the visual output.

The visual output of this system is a 4K 60 frames per second HDMI 2.0 connection (8K output is possible if you scale the memory up). The software for the UGREEN NAS system is still in beta, and currently, the HDMI output is limited to command line access.

Currently, there is no graphical user interface afforded to the HDMI output, such as you would find on a QNAP or Asustor NAS system, but as this is a relatively niche feature for many, I’m not going to give them too much of a hard time over this.

Although the lack of the Thunderbolt direct connectivity will be a blow for some, the majority of users will be much ,much more impressed with the network connectivity of the DXP8800 PLUS. The system arrives with two 10GbE network ports (which is exceptional at the under $999 price tag, at least during crowdfunding).

Just to put this into perspective, the Synology DS1823xs+ is an 8 Bay NAS that has 1x 10GbE connection (and 2x 1GbE) with a 4 Core / 8 Thread AMD Emb.CPU and arrives at $1800 without TAX. Likewise, the QNAP TVS-h874T4 arrives with several versions with 10GbE and/or Thunderbolt 4 connectivity (with Intel i3/i5/i7/i9 CPUs) and that system starts at around $1999 and can reach as high as $3999). We need to factor in that the DXP8800 Plus is a crowdfunding product (so therefore hardly comparable to traditional retail as a regular over the counter purchase), but whether you purchase it at the $974 crowdfunding or intended $1499 RRP (Realistically, I imagine it will sit at around $1299-1399 at full retail) – this is a HUGE saving on hardware and for a 10GbE ready system, exceedingly hard to beat. Remember though, HAVING 2x 10GbE is not the same as being able to fully USE 20GbE – that depends on so many factors (Shared internal PCI lanes and PCIe switches, SATA and NVMe controllers internally, as well as the actual media you choose to use to try and saturate the connection.

Nevertheless, this DXP8800 PLUS arriving with the two 10GBASE-T (Copper) connections with Aquantia controllers internally to manage it, is very appealing. But it does not stop there. The DXP8800 PLUS is one of a small % of the NASYnc series to feature a PCIe upgrade slot too. It’s a half-height slot and x4 speed (so largely going to be used for NIC upgrades), but nevertheless worked a treat.

I installed a simple, budget 2x 10GbE Intel X540 adapter from Aliexpress (found HERE) and it was immediately visible and usable in the UGREEN NAS Software:

Overall, in terms of ports and connectivity, I’m really happy with everything I found on the DXP8800 Plus, and the increased scalability in terms of improving upon the network connectivity down the line, as well as the price point of the base level of network connectivity, combined with a decent degree of functionality and modern storage expandability to boot. The lack of Thunderbolt direct connectivity is a shame, but this is already something of a rarity in the market anyway (QNAP dominate this and despite the likes of QSAN and Promise trying to emulate this previously, they have hit walls) and UGREEN do state they are investigating this at development. Overall, I am really happy with the hardware thus far. Let’s dig a little deeper.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Internal Hardware

As mentioned earlier, it’s surprisingly confident of UGREEN to launch so many different NAS devices simultaneously for their first foray into network-attached storage. Not only have they provided several different storage scales and architectures, but they are also supporting three different internal hardware CPUs in terms of CPU. The scale in terms of price and capabilities of each system varies.

The DXP8800 Plus arrived with an  Intel i5 10-core processor (2p + 8e), integrated graphics, 20 PCIe lanes, and a maximum 55W TDP. Despite its compact SOC form, this 12th generation Intel i5 processor offers substantial power, benchmarking well against the N100 and Pentium 8505 models in other UGreen NAS models. Testing this processor, especially in this early crowdfunding prototype, presents challenges. Though UGREEN have softened their position on 3rd party OS support (and it’s impact on your hardware warranty if you pursue this), it is still not the intended USE CASE of what UGREEN state this system is to be deployed in (to verify their claims on it’s performance). See video below for more information on this:

Consequently, we’re limited in our ability to benchmark using third-party OSs or reference previous benchmarks for similar architectures. The UGreen NAS’s operating system, still in beta, requires further optimization to fully showcase what the hardware can achieve.

This processor is well-equipped with sufficient PCIe lanes to manage the 8 SATA drives and 2x M.2 NVMe SSDs, offering respectable speeds through SSH (at least on slot #1 – more on that later). The main concern with this processor selection is the lack of ECC memory support, crucial for high-speed flash systems to minimize bit errors during intensive operations.

Although SOC processors that support ECC are rare, especially from Intel, using one for this system and potentially for the DXP8800 Plus could significantly impact the price and development timeline. Nevertheless, this CPU is arguably the best choice for such a compact system in 2024, balancing power efficiency, heat management, and performance capabilities.

Arriving with integrated graphics, supporting up to 64 gigabytes of memory (arriving with 8GB of DDR5 SODIMM and two slots), there is a lot to like here. It is especially surprising when you realize that the brand already provides closely priced N100 and Pentium models next to this device in UGREEN’s NAS portfolio. This processor performs exceedingly well with Plex Media Server and, thanks to those 20 lanes, also means there’s a decent spread of available hardware architecture across the whole device.

But do keep in mind that this system does not support ECC memory. Indeed, none of the UGREEN systems support ECC memory, and although they make a point of highlighting the on-die checks associated with DDR5, most experienced storage enthusiasts tend to prefer traditional ECC memory support. Nevertheless, 8GB is a good amount of memory to start with, and it’s great to know that you are not locked in with presoldered and fixed memory on the board, which is a move often used by more economical brands to save some money and dedicate lanes more efficiently. The layout of the internal architecture is still yet to be confirmed at the time of writing this review, but digging a little into the backend via SSH revealed that each of the M.2 NVMe slots on the base of this system are Gen 4 x 4.

However, further digging into the 2nd M.2 slot showed that it has been downgraded the 8GT/s x2 :

Not entirely sure what to make of this, as this IS a prototype review unit. But it does seemingly though a little initial shade on the whole ‘two Gen 4×4 slots’. I will need to investigate this further with the brand and when I get a further update on this, I will let you know by updating the article here. Meanwhile, the OS SSD bay that hosts the UGOS NAS software arrives on that Phison E13 Gen 3 SSD, that is downgraded the Gen 3×1 (SO, SUB 1,000MB/s performance – which is fine for the Operating System SSD, but does mean that data passing through it (or at least managed to a large degree) might be potentially bottlenecked.

So, how this all separates out on the system chipset and whether these are being delivered into PCIe switches to spread the architecture out for the rest of the system storage, double network connectivity, and dedicating lanes to all those available connections, is definitely an area that leaves pause for thought.

(image below from other UGREEN NAS Systems)

Which I had difficulty identifying, but I suspect is a Marvell AQtion Aquantia AQC113/AQC114/AQC114CS/AQC115Cs, comprising (from official pages) a high-performance,Scalable mGig, Ethernet MAC+PHY Controllers designed to support the following network rates: 10GBASE-T/5GBASET/ 2.5GBASE-T/1000BASET/100BASE-TX/10BASE-Te. When equipped with a PCI Express Gen 4 x4, this family of Scalable mGig Ethernet MAC+PHY Controllers easily handle the 10 GbE line-rate performance. The AQC113, AQC114, AQC114CS, AQC115C device family combines a mGig Ethernet MAC Controller with a full-reach, low-power, highperformance, multi-gigabit, single-port Gen 4 Ethernet Alaska PHY transceiver into a single, monolithic device that is designed using the latest 14nm, multi-gate, FinFET process technology.

(image below from other UGREEN NAS Systems)

The USB controller/manager appears to be an ASM1543, (from the ASmedia pages) a one Four to two differential channels mux switch with integrated Type-C Configuration Channel Logic Circuitry, using for USB3.1 type-C mux and CC detection application. The signal performance of mux switch is up to 10Gbps SuperSpeedPlus USB bus with low insertion loss and return loss, and it also supports USB plug orientation, configurable as DFP role or UFP role through the setting of strapping pins, and implementing the strapping for the setting/detection of Type-C current mode, following USB3.1 Revision 1.0 and USB Type-C Connector and Cable Revision 1.3 standard specification.

(image below from other UGREEN NAS Systems)

Next, we find a Richtek RT3624BE, (from the manf pages) a synchronous buck controller which supports 2 output rails and can fully meet Intel IMVP9.1 requirements. The RT3624BE adopts G-NAVPTM (Green Native AVP) which is Richtek’s proprietary topology derived from finite DC gain of EA amplifier with current mode control, making it easy to set the droop to meet all Intel CPU requirements of AVP (Adaptive Voltage Positioning). Based on the G-NAVPTM topology, the RT3624BE features a new generation of quick response mechanism (Adaptive Quick Response, AQR) to optimize AVP performance during load transient and reduce output capacitors. The RT3624BE integrates a high accuracy ADC for platform and function settings, such as ICCMAX, switching frequency, over-current threshold or AQR trigger level.

(image below from other UGREEN NAS Systems)

In terms of the SATA storage management, I found a ASMedia ASM116 SATA host controller(AHCI). (TBC) Which is upstream PCIe Gen3 x2 and downstream eight SATA Gen3 ports. It’s a low latency, low cost and low power AHCI controller. With four SATA ports and cascaded port multipliers, ASM1164 can enable users to build up various high speed IO systems, including server, high capacity system storage or surveillance platforms.

(image below from other UGREEN NAS Systems)

Earlier in March when I was testing the (late alpha, early Beta) version of the NAS software, system and services, the performance numbers I got were not hugely encouraging internally. However, there have been numerous improvements on the system software and I am pleased to confirm that the M.2 NVMe slot 1 was indeed 4×4 bandwidth and that some brief 1GB transfer/creation testing showed some early 5.5GB/s benchmarks on the Gen 4×4 SSD I has inside the system.

Now we cannot rule out the impact of caching internally and these tests are NOT reflective of everyday (i.e non synthetic) use, but it was definitely an encouraging sign. However, when I tried to repeatedly move 1GB of data between each of the NM,2 NVMe, the performance would drop down to 1.1-1.5Gb/s, which further suggested some lane sharing and a possible bottleneck by a controller and/or that downgrade perhaps. Again, this is a beta software/system and UGREEN repeated that this system is still undergoing optimization.

External performance over 10GbE was also an area that I really, REALLY hope this is sees significant optimization. I was hitting a bottleneck of around 650-700MB/s on upload and download (on a 10Gbe / 1,000MB/s connection). The performance numbers below were over 10GbE (with the MTU set at 1500 – As the software is currently not allowing me to scale it to 9000 MTU/Jumbo frames). Below is the tests for 4x 8TB Toshiba HDDs in RAID 5, 4x Kingston DC600M SATA SSDs in RAID 0 and 1x Kingston KC3000 Gen4 NVMe SSD.I then went ahead and conducted a windows 10GbE transfer to the RAID 5 array:

Further testing confirmed performance dips when transferring data between SSDs, indicating a shared pathway. Despite this being a pre-release sample, and acknowledging potential future optimizations, the observed SSD performance, though still faster than many market alternatives, fell comparatively short of expectations given the hardware capabilities (though still higher than the majority of M.2 SSD performance offered by other brands providing HDD SATA + M.2 solutions right now).

The UGREEN NAS’s software, still in beta, promises further insights into the brand’s direction with their NAS solution and its accompanying software and services, warranting a closer examination as development progresses.

UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NASync Review – Software

At the time of writing, the UGREEN NAS software is still in beta, with the mobile application is live now. Reviewing the software included with the DXP8800 Plus—as a final product—feels somewhat premature. The NASsync software beta reveals many baseline functions and long-term plans, detailed in the video below in our initial overview and first impressions of the UGREEN NAS software:

You can read the MASSIVE Software review (covering the Desktop and Mobile experience) HERE on the NASCompares Review Article.

Alternatively, you can watch the video version of the UGREEN UGOS NAS Software Beta Review in the video below:

The TL;DR on the UGREEN NAS software (UPDATED)

it’s on track to become a smooth and user-friendly experience, comparable to giants like Synology and QNAP, especially in terms of the web browser experience. Unlike opting for the complexity of TrueNAS or the streamlined, container-focused UI of UnRAID, the UGREEN NAS software is more akin to Synology DSM. The foundation is clearly laid out for expansion in terms of features and tools for the user’s disposal. However, there are notable absences of baseline applications such as container or virtual machine support, and a multi-tiered backup solution within the web GUI (though the UGREEN NAS mobile and desktop clients are in development, expected to preview in March). Basic services for file management, shares, user account control, and an app center—soon to be linked to a repository—are all user-friendly but present some inconsistencies, likely due to its beta status and ongoing development. The physical product may be closer to final development, but the software needs more time for optimization. SMB services were less consistent than desired, and settings changes sometimes didn’t save or recall correctly. This is common for beta software finding its footing, yet it’s important to note that the hardware feels more refined than the software at this stage, months before user delivery. In brief:

What I liked:

• Intuitive UI with services located logically and responsive controls.
• The mobile application for iOS and Android is one of the best I have ever used in NAS!
• Baseline services such as network interface management, user account control, firewall handling, and SSH interface control are all present.
• A clearly defined app center awaiting connection to an online repository.
• Helpful tips and guidance are available on most pages, aiding new users.
• Support for modern services like SMB3 multi-channel and domain services in the beta.
• Clear account and resource management accessible from the desktop, likely appealing to most users.
• The inclusion of a remote access relay service and UGREEN account creation from day one, simplifying remote access for new users with built-in firewall and domain tools.
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – The HDMI output is now full controllable via the mobile application and is intiuative
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – A Docker application has now been added with access to numerous repository options!
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – SSH is now disabled by default

What I disliked:

• Absence of two-factor authentication in the software.
• Lack of virtualization applications at this stage.
• Sporadic SMB performance.
• The Security Advisor tool is only suitable for Antivirus and Anti-Maleware protection, not to scan the system for security weaknesses and advisory actions
• The HDMI output cannot be used by the desktop/browser user to the same extent as the mobile application + cannot be used by container tools (Plex, Home Automation, etc)
• In-progress language integration, leading to occasional default displays in Chinese or error messages in Chinese despite English settings.

Improvements needed:

• Expansion of app integration and desktop client tools for easier system-client bridging.
• Introduction of a default application for device discovery on the local network, a basic service offered by many NAS brands.
• More information on UGREEN account and remote access security.

Acknowledging this is a beta, it’s fair to reserve full judgment until the software fully rolls out. As it stands, this beta is promising yet lacks some established NAS software fundamentals. Hopefully, we’ll see significant advancements as the release approaches.

UGREEN DXP8800 Plus NAS Storage Review – Verdict and Conclusion

Much like the rest of the NASync series, the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS 8-Bay NAS is incredibly good value in terms of hardware and, if you are looking for the very best desktop NAS hardware for the price point available in the market – the DXP8800 PLUS is truly unbeatable in its specifications, build quality and overall physical presentation. Even going full ‘DiY’ and trying to build a system of this calibre yourself (case, cables, i5 embedded mobo, 2 port 10GbE card, 2 NVMe, 8 SATA, case, cooling, etc), you would struggle to beat the sub $999 of this system by a meaningful margin. Add to this the fact that UGREEN have now softened their stance on 3rd party NAS OS’ on their NAS devices having no aggressive impact on your 3-year hardware warranty has won a lot more users over, as the DXP8800 PLUS becomes the perfect TrueNAS or UnRAID NAS for users who don’t want the hassle of building from scratch, chasing multiple warranty’s and silicon paste under the fingernails! Genuinely, it is impossible to fault the DXP8800 PLUS on a hardware level (it’s not even that noisy, compared to other 8-Bay NAS in the market at least).

When it comes to software and performance, however, things are a little more complicated. The UGREEN NAS software (UGOS) is still very much in beta, and it feels likes it. The system (at time of writing) has still yet to complete initial crowdfunding and development of the software is still on-going (so we are still judging a software OS that hasn’t finished). But nevertheless, the absence of services such as 2 factor authentication, WORM, a comprehensive security monitor, volume encryption, a virtual machine hypervisor, broader 3rd party cloud sync and backup tools, etc – the absence of these (as well as inconsistencies in the software and performance, that arguably are possibly related to it’s beta status) lead to it being hard to recommend the DXP8800 PLUS on a software level. However, this system will not see physical fulfilment to backers till at least June/July at the very earliest, which is still a decent amount of time to polish the software and roll out beta’s of individual services that are promised on the UGREEN roadmap. Perhaps you are looking at the DXP8800 PLUS series for TrueNAS/UnRAID/OMV etc, or simply to set it up for local SMB storage for your backups and then use the docker app to run Plex. For those users, the DXP8800 is an absolute bargain. Just remember that we are still talking about Kickstarter and crowdfunding (still an odd move by such a big brand) and therefore this needs to be treated as such, not comparable to traditional retail! Overall, I am hugely impressed and look forward to seeing where this system, UGOS and UGREEN go in the exciting world of NAS in the next year or two. The DXP8800 PLUS is a BEAST of a NAS in terms of hardware, but the software is still WiP.

PROS of the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS	CONS of the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS
PCIe Expandability 8 HDDs + 2x Gen 4 M.2 in 1 box under $999 Good Balanced CPU choice 10GbE Dual Ports! An SD Card Slot (wierdly rare!) 10/10 Build Quality Great Scalability Fantastic Mobile Application (even vs Synology and QNAP etc) Desktop/Browser GUI shows promise Established Brand entering the NAS Market Not too noisy (comparatively) Very Appealing retail package+accessories	10GbE Performance was less than expected Crowdfunding choice is confusing Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 18/4/24

Click the Link Below to find out more about the UGREEN NASync NAS Series on the brand’s official Site:

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The Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB HDD Review

Seagate and their Ironwolf series of hard drives have fast become a mainstay of the NAS landscape in a relatively short time, considering their NAS HDD and eventual rebranding to Ironwolf in 2015/2016. In that time they have closed considerable ground on their biggest rival in this field, the WD Red series, and now although the brand first released Ironwolf Pro 20, 22 and now 24TB NAS Hard Drives in the last 18 months, they are now in the process of revising a number of these drives and introducing a new higher durability STX0000NT001 / STX0000NT001 series to join that existing the STX000NE001. These newer class of Prosumer/large-scale storage array NAS hard drives arrive with almost twice the workload rating, more than double the MTBF rating and still maintain the same high reported performance levels. All this said, why the sudden change? Perhaps facilitated by hardware shortages or due to the growing concerns of some users over larger capacities having the same workload rating of smaller capacities, leading to diminishing durability returns? Whatever the reason (more on that later), there is no denying that 24TB of storage in a single 3.5″ HDD casing is something to behold and today we are going to review this new massive drive from Seagate, benchmark it, test it with leading NAS brand Synology, discuss the differences with the existing Ironwolf Pro range and (hopefully) help you decide if it deserves your data? Let’s begin.

Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB Hard Drive Review – Quick Conclusion

There is no denying that Seagate certainly delivers on the prompted storage and performance that they have stated for the  Ironwolf Pro 24TB NAS hard drive. This alongside fully tested and confirmed compatibility with Synology (though not by Synology themselves) devices means that you have a drive here that can turn any 4-Bay NAS into a staggering 96TB server in RAID 0 and 72TB RAID5 Storage data monster – let alone once you start thinking about rackmounts and hyperscale. The pricing of this 24TB is understandably high, but as always, when you start crunching down the ‘Price Per TB’, it ends up landing comfortably in the same region as other Pro class drives of a smaller capacity. As mentioned previously, I particularly appreciate that the workload discussion surrounding ‘Pro’ Class drives at 300TB/yr vs rapid HDD capacity growth is being addressed here with a 550TB/yr version to rival that of ‘Ent’ class drives – whatever the reason/motivation. With capacities getting higher and more ‘eggs being placed in baskets’, the durability of each individual drive in an array grows in importance, so the shift of these PRO class drives towards an ENTERPRISE class workload should be positively noted. The value of the Ironwolf Health Management tool is going to be something of debate and the inclusion of 3yrs data recovery services is a nice extra that (with any luck) few will need to use – but better to have them and not need them, than visa versa. As HDDs continue to increase in scale and Seagate (among other brands) continues to outline their plans to hit 50TB (so, halfway there with this one!) by the end of the decade, the Seagate Ironwolf Pro ST2400NT002 is another good example of an HDD that finds a sweet spot between price, durability and value. Just be aware that this is a drive designed for large-scale use and that means high operational noise and higher than typical power use than non-Pro and smaller cap drives!

Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB Hard Drive Review – Design

The design of the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB HDD remains largely unchanged in appearance compared with the most recent high-capacity releases at 24TB and 22TB. The 3.5″ casing is helium sealed and the new NT class of drives arrive with a change in the labelling to differentiate them from the NE Ironwolf Pro series. Perhaps this differentiation is the separate them for use in 24+ Bay servers (given the oddly open-ended ‘unlimited bay’ support on the spec sheets vs the ‘upto 24-Bays of the Ironwolf Pro till now). Typically NAS/SAN system that feature 24x and higher storage bays would have been urged to opt for the EXOS series (available in both SAS and SATA). Perhaps this is a means to open up and bracket the Hyper-Scale and Data Center tier up, as more and more medium-large business setup single/paired Rackmounts outside of the large-sclae cabinet settings of the past? It’s hard to say, as otherwise, what problem is a newer and more durable Ironwolf Pro drive solving?

One argument might be the growing question of workload ratings on HDDs vs Growing Capacities and how they are starting to result in reduced margins of durability. The general rule of thumb when it has come to Hard drives for 24×7 server deployment is:

• Standard Class Server Drives (so, upto 8 Bays of storage, small-medium Business deployment) is 180TB workload a year over the 3yr warranty
• Large Scale Server Drives (above 8 Bays and upto 24 Bays for Higher-end business and large-scale deployment) at 300TB workload per year over the 5yr Warranty
• Enterprise/Hyperscale Server Drives (i.e Data Center, with theoretically limitless Bay numbers, factoring expansions and growth) at 550TB workload per year over the 5yr Warranty

Now the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB is branded as a ‘Pro’ class drive (the middle one, above), however it arrives with a 550TB Workload rating, putting it well into the Enterprise bracket and treading on the toes of Seagates EXOS series – though lacking the SAS and Encryption options of EXOS options. However, the general rules of 180/300/550TB respective workloads on each tier begin to fall down a little when you factor that a 1TB drive that has a 300TB workload at 210MB/s performance and a 24TB that is also at 300TB workload annually, but 285MB/s max transfer will not only hit that workload limit quicker – but there is also the question of how this translates over time vs the available storage space and writes over time! Therefore the newer gen Seagate Ironwolf Pro ST2000NT001 Hard Drive arriving with 550TB/yr (alongside NT versions of many of the other lower capacities) does elevate this point somewhat for those users in between the Large Scale and Hyperscale/data center.

The 24TB in the ST2400NT001=2 is spread over 10 platters of 2.4TB each, made possible via the drive being helium sealed. This reduces potential internal drag and friction between platters, maintains the balance and allows much thinner platters to be used. Spinning at 7200RPM, the platters feature dual-plane balancing (known as AgileArray) also time-limited error recovery (TLER), which ensures the drive reading head isn’t delayed in intermittent read errors and can restart quickly to increase access when needed.

The 10 platters spinning at 7200RPM are also accompanied by 256MB of caching on board, which really surprised me, giving most of Seagate’s competitors have hit the 512MB cache level at this capacity tier. Having half the chance of its rivals does not seem to diminish both the performance or the sustained performance either.

As mentioned, the Seagate Ironwolf Pro HDD series only arrives in SATA. Although I can understand that Segaate does not want to overlap TOO much with their EXOS range that they already have done, there are an increasing number of SAS NAS solutions arriving on the market (with both Synology and QNAP both increasing their range of solutions in this direction noticeably for their 2022/2023 generations). Yes, users could just go for a suitable SAS EXOS option, but then they lose out on the Rescue Data Recovery services and Ironwolf Health management on the drive.

Overall, any improvements or changes in the build/construction of the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB ST2400NT002 HDD over the rest of the range and/or the previous NE version are all internal. We have to take Seagate at their word on the effective doubling of the durability rating, but given their pedigree in the EXOS enterprise series, I have little doubt in this. Although the Ironwolf Pro 24TB is not the only NAS drive in the market right now that is breaking the 24 Terabyte level, it does arrive with a couple of things that many others don’t that we should cover – the included Data Recovery services and the Ironwolf Health Management tool for NAS for a start. But MOST IMPORTANTLY, the Seagate IW Pro 24TB is CMR (conventional Magnetic recording) and not SMR (Shingled Magnetic Recording – that latter of which is what the bulk of other NAS brands offer drives at this scale in. However, larger scale storage users will always opt for CMR drives and Seagate (unlike WD) have done a fantastic job of ensuring all their NAS drive series are CMR.

Is Seagate Ironwolf Health Management and Rescue Recovery Services Worth Caring About?

For those that are not aware, the Seagate Rescue+ package is a data recovery service that is included with your Ironwolf and Ironwolf Pro drives that, alongside your 3/5-year warranty, includes an additional 3 years of data recovery services. What that means is that if your drive fails through no fault of your own within reason (so, no, not smashing it with a hammer), you can send the drive off to the Seagate recovery labs and they will try to get that data back. From accidental deletion, all the way through to mechanical and forensic level recovery, this is an impressive inclusion! You should still factor other safety nets in your architecture (backups, UPS, RAID, etc) but given the cost of data recovery services (costing anything from hundreds to thousands of pounds), this is a very, VERY useful inclusion when you need it. This plus an already normally lower price point than Pro series drives in the WD Red series means that the Seagate Ironwolf hard drives still manage to be the better value choice for alot of users, especially when including the Rescue recovery included. They are also the only 3rd party NAS hard drive brand that has a tool to monitor drive health available on practically ALL the NAS software GUIs in the market, in Seagate Ironwolf Health Management. Here is part one of a two-part video series on the NASComapres YouTube channel were we showed the Seagate Rescue Recovery service (arguably, in a very extreme fashion!):

You can find out more on the Rescue service and its Pros/Cons in the video below. Otherwise there is another video detailing a guide on what to expect from data recovery costs/fees etc in a video from 2021:

Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB Hard Drive Review – Testing

Testing the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB is going to be performed across multiple methods, but still rather unconventional. This drive is designed for deployment in large # Bay servers, but although I have several NAS in the studio that could accommodate this frequency of drives, I do not have sufficient Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB units. Therefore the testing I have conducted are all examples of single-drive performance. These will include several PC testing sessions using popular and recommended storage testing applications and two NAS tests involving Synology and QNAP.

• Windows 10 Pro Desktop System
• Intel i5 11400 Rocket Lake – 6-Core 2.6/4.4Ghz
• 16GB DDR4 2666MHz Memory
• Intel B560M mATX Motherboard
• OS Storage, Seagate Firecuda 120 SSD
• Test Hard Drive connected to a Sabrent USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb/s external dock
• Synology test was conducted on a DS923+ NAS using the system’s own benchmarking tool

These last tests are important as not only is the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB HDD designed for NAS use, but also at the time of writing neither brand lists this hard drive as compatible. There is more to this though that I will touch on later.

The first test involved using CrystalDisk. I performed tests on 1GB, 4GB and 16GB test files, as well as mixed 70/30% R/W. The results were consistent and largely lived up to Seagate’s claims here.

The next test used ATTO disk benchmark and this one used a 256MB, 1GB and 4GB test file in the same windows PC test environment. However, I also included the IOPS. The random 4K operations of a hard drive will typically be hugely dwarfed by those of SSDs, but enterprise HDDs and pro series drives still tend to rate noticeably higher than domestic HDD and standard-class NAS HDDs on this score.

In order to conduct a windows performance test, I copied 20GB of mixed files over to the drive as a separate disk. The result was consistent performance and the transfer, averaging at 205MB/s on the windows transfer overall and peaking at 260MB/s. Although this is lower than the transfer rates stated by Seagate and in the synthetic tests above, this is perfectly understandable when dealing with this high volume of small/differing date, compared with the largely Sequential Data tests stated elsewhere.

20GB Windows Transfer

Synology NAS Testing with the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB Hard Drive

Now, before I move on to the NAS testing. It is worth highlighting a couple of important factors with regard to the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB and the support available from each NAS brand I am focusing on for the testing. Now, Synology is the ONLY NAS brand in the market that also has its own first-party HDDs available to users too. These are Originally Toshiba Enterprise-grade produced hard disks that have had a Synology-specific firmware applied to them. Now, why is this relevant? Well, because some larger-scale Synology products in 2021 onwards do not list other 3rd Party HDDs as compatible. Even then, if you look up some of the older 2020 released NAS drives currently in the market (such as the DS920+ for example), they DO list HDDs from the likes of Seagate Ironwolf (and their EXOS and Skyhawk series) BUT they do not list drives larger than 18TB at the time of writing. This is an odd stance by the brand, when larger-scale 24TB and 22TB hard drives are available in the market and designed for NAS.

If you install an HDD or SSD inside a Synology system with the latest version of their software platform DSM, but the HDD in question is not on the compatibility list, you are greeted by a message that will detail that the drive is not recommended in the storage manager.

You can still use the HDD for Storage Pools, Volumes, Hot-spares, etc, but it is an oddly jarring message for some. Of course, this is the current compatibility of this HDD at the time of writing and may well change in the future as further HDD capacities arrive and additional compatibility testing takes place.

Nevertheless, you can still push through this warning and proceed to test the performance of the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB HDD from within the Synology Storage Manager. Here are the results.

Noise Testing the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB NAS Hard Drive

This is something that is often overlooked when users are getting excited about bigger and bigger HDDs entering the market and the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB is no exception to this – NOISE! Because of the sheer scale of hardware that is getting packed into these larger capacity 3.5″ HDD casing and the more industrious hardware inside that needs to perform 24×7 durably, operational noise is unavoidable. Once you exceed around 8-10TB (HDD brand dependant), the increased platters and heavier duty actuator/arm mechanism needs to be a grat deal more reactive (due to the larger space that is needed to be covered ad-hoc. The Seagate ST2400NT002 24TB is a pretty spot-on example of this and although you are getting some great performance, it is achieved with a large amount of mechanical work under the bonnet. Now, if you are running a larger-scale data center/rackmount style setup, this is not going to be much of a barrier. As those kinds of server will have multiple fans and use horizontal pressure fan cooling – so they will be much louder than the drives! However, in more modest 4-8 Bay desktop NAS systems, its a different story, as these use smaller/quieter fans and alongside being more conductive of vibration, the noise of these drives in operation will be a great deal more obvious.

Here is an example of four Seagate Ironwolf Pro HDDs in a Synology DS923 4-Bay NAS, running an intense 4K IOPS benchmark on the drives (likely the LOUDEST THING you will ever hear, so this is not truly representative of idle/standby/low use):

If you want a better idea of typical operational noise and noise when booting the drive with the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TBs, watch the middle portion of the YouTube review HERE. Regardless, if you are sensitive to noise, will be in close proximity to the NAS device (direct 10GbE editing?) and will be running a smaller scale NAS system – then these new 24TB HDDs might not be quite your cup of tea!

Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB Hard Drive Review – Conclusion

There is no denying that Seagate certainly delivers on the prompted storage and performance that they have stated for the  Ironwolf Pro 24TB NAS hard drive. This alongside fully tested and confirmed compatibility with Synology (though not by Synology themselves) devices means that you have a drive here that can turn any 4-Bay NAS into a staggering 96TB server in RAID 0 and 72TB RAID5 Storage data monster – let alone once you start thinking about rackmounts and hyperscale. The pricing of this 24TB is understandably high, but as always, when you start crunching down the ‘Price Per TB’, it ends up landing comfortably in the same region as other Pro class drives of a smaller capacity. As mentioned previously, I particularly appreciate that the workload discussion surrounding ‘Pro’ Class drives at 300TB/yr vs rapid HDD capacity growth is being addressed here with a 550TB/yr version to rival that of ‘Ent’ class drives – whatever the reason/motivation. With capacities getting higher and more ‘eggs being placed in baskets’, the durability of each individual drive in an array grows in importance, so the shift of these PRO class drives towards an ENTERPRISE class workload should be positively noted. The value of the Ironwolf Health Management tool is going to be something of debate and the inclusion of 3yrs data recovery services is a nice extra that (with any luck) few will need to use – but better to have them and not need them, than visa versa. As HDDs continue to increase in scale and Seagate (among other brands) continues to outline their plans to hit 50TB (so, halfway there with this one!) by the end of the decade, the Seagate Ironwolf Pro ST2400NT002 is another good example of an HDD that finds a sweet spot between price, durability and value. Just be aware that this is a drive designed for large-scale use and that means high operational noise and higher than typical power use than non-Pro and smaller cap drives!

PROs of the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB	CONs of the Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TB
Very Good Price Point vs WD Red/Red Pro Industry Leading NAS HDD Capacity Data Recovery Services Included (3yrs) 550TB/yr Workload & 2.5M MTBF 285MB/s Transfer Speeds Impressively CMR, when most other drives at this Cap are SMR right now Ironwolf Health Management Inc. Seagate Secure Onboard Consistent Performance	Noisy!!! Definitely Cannot have Just One Higher Standby/Idle Power Use Tipping point vs SDDs

Should You Buy the Jonsbo N4, N3 or N2 for your NAS DiY Build?

Building your NAS has inarguably become easier in recent years, thanks in large part to considerably more tailored and NAS-designed components arriving on the market that allow users to take a lot of the guesswork out of building a private cloud and network server from scratch. Although a lot of improvements and innovations have occurred in power-efficient SoC/Mobile CPUs and the miniaturization of technology, when it comes to actual NAS enclosures/cases – it’s actually a much less populated market than you might think. NAS cases are not really the same as traditional PC cases – designed with a greater focus on storage capabilities, hot swapping storage when needed, engineered for 24×7 use and designed to house the NAS-focused CPU+MoBo combos that have rolled out from brands such as ASrock, Topton, CWWK, Minisforum and more. Indeed, arguably one of the most popular brand’s in the market for NAS enclosures is Jonsbo, with its growing range of NAS-designed enclosures. Now that its fourth iteration has rolled out, the Jonsbo N4, I thought it time to find out what the main differences are between their three most popular NAS cases right now, the Jonsbo N2, N3 and N4. Each one has its strengths and weaknesses, ranging from scalability and day 1 storage, to motherboard compatibility and cooling systems. So, let’s compare the Jonsbo N4 vs N3 vs N2 and help you decide which one is best for you and your data!

USEFUL RESOURCES: Here are links to the previous full reviews of the Jonsbo N2, N3 and N4 NAS Cases: Jonsbo N2 vs N3 vs N4 YouTube Video – HERE Jonsbo N2 5+1 Bay Review – VIDEO – ARTICLE Jonsbo N3 8+2 Bay Review – VIDEO – ARTICLE Jonsbo N4 6+2 Bay Review – VIDEO – ARTICLE

N2 Best for Low/Efficient NAS Deployment Lowest Price Point Smallest Physical Footprint Smallest Storage Capacity Only 1 PCIe Card Slot and Half Height	N3 Best for  a Power NAS Build + Bigger CPU Cooling Largest Storage Capacity + Full Size PCIe Cards Best Prosumer Deployment BIG Size and oddly tall Noisiest System of the Three	N4 Better MoBo Compatibility (MITX and MATX) Best Size vs Storage Option + 4x PCIe Slots Most Conventially Aesthetically Appealing Most Expensive PCIe Cards Must Be Half Height
======= Where To Buy? =======
$76 (Check Aliexpress HERE)	$99.42 (Check Aliexpress HERE)	$76.99 (Check Aliexpress HERE)
$149 (Check Amazon HERE)	$170 (Check Amazon HERE)	$199* (Check Amazon HERE)

---

Jonsbo N2 vs N3 vs N4 – The TLDR

The Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 NAS Enclosures cater to an interesting range of storage and cooling needs for DiY NAS builders, which is most likely the reason that Jonsbo has become so popular with home lab’ers and server enthusiasts. First up, the N2, with its compact footprint, is designed around the ITX motherboard form factor, accommodating up to 5 3.5″ HDDs for storage. Its built-in 120mm fan ensures efficient cooling within a tightly packed space, while the design accommodates a maximum CPU cooler height of 65mm, emphasizing its focus on compact, yet powerful builds. The N3 expands on these capabilities, offering support for up to 8 3.5″ HDDs, thereby increasing the potential storage capacity significantly. Despite its larger size, it retains support for ITX motherboards only but allows for a taller CPU cooler (up to 130mm), addressing the needs of users requiring more robust cooling solutions and storage within a still compact NAS solution.

The N4 model diverges notably in terms of design and compatibility, embracing a more eclectic mix of materials with its steel and wood construction. This enclosure is compatible with both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, broadening its appeal to users with varying motherboard preferences. It supports up to 6 3.5″ HDDs, positioning it between the N2 and N3 in terms of storage capacity but makes a distinct statement with its unique material choice and aesthetic. The N4 also supports a slightly larger CPU cooler height than the N2, up to 70mm, but less than the N3, balancing between compact design and cooling efficiency. Its cooling strategy is centered around a single built-in 120mm fan, ensuring that despite its capacity for larger motherboards, thermal management remains a priority. Through these nuanced differences in storage capacity, motherboard support, CPU cooler height, and cooling strategies, the Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 enclosures offer tailored solutions for a range of user requirements, from compact, efficient setups to more expansive, versatile builds.

Jonsbo N3 vs N2 vs N4 – NAS Size and Physical Footprint

The Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 NAS cases exhibit a thoughtful progression in physical size to accommodate varying user needs and preferences. The N2, the most compact of the trio, measures 222.5mm in width and depth, standing 224mm tall. This square-like dimension underscores its design for efficiency and minimal spatial footprint, ideal for users seeking a space-saving solution without compromising on storage capacity, with room for up to five 3.5″ HDDs. In contrast, the N3 slightly expands on this design philosophy, with dimensions of 233mm by 262mm by 298mm (WxDxH), thereby offering a larger internal volume. This additional space is leveraged to support up to eight 3.5″ HDDs, catering to users with greater storage needs while still maintaining a relatively compact form factor suitable for small office or home environments.

Model	Dimensions (WxDxH) mm	Max. CPU Cooler Height (mm)	Cooling System	Ventilation
N2	222.5 x 222.5 x 224	65	120x15mm fan *1 (built-in)	Side panels, top, rear
N3	233 x 262 x 298	130	100x25mm *2 (optional), 80x25mm *2 (built-in)	Side, back, ventilated front panel
N4	286 x 300 x 228	70	120mm *1 (built-in)	Side panels, top, rear, wooden front panel

Moving further up in size, the N4 distinguishes itself with dimensions of 286mm by 300mm by 228mm (WxDxH), making it the widest and deepest, yet not the tallest among the three. This layout is indicative of its design to accommodate both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, providing flexibility for users who may require more expansive motherboard support. The increased width and depth also facilitate an enhanced cooling solution and additional drive bays, accommodating up to six 3.5″ HDDs. Despite its larger size relative to the N2 and N3, the N4’s design remains conscious of space efficiency, striking a balance between accommodating more powerful hardware and maintaining a form factor that is still manageable within a variety of settings. This gradation in size across the Jonsbo NAS case lineup reflects a deliberate approach to meet diverse user requirements, from the most space-conscious to those needing a broader scope of hardware support and cooling efficiency.

Jonsbo N2 vs N4 vs N2 – Storage Capacity

The storage capacity of the Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 NAS cases varies to cater to different user demands, reflecting a clear gradation in terms of available drive bays for HDDs and SSDs. The N2 offers the starting point with room for one 2.5″ SSD and five 3.5″ HDDs, presenting a balanced option for moderate storage needs within a compact frame. Stepping up, the N3 enhances this capability significantly, accommodating one 2.5″ SSD and eight 3.5″ HDDs, thus positioning itself as a more suitable option for users requiring higher data storage capacity in a still relatively compact NAS solution.

Model	2.5″ SSD Bays	3.5″ HDD Bays	Motherboard Compatibility	Max. CPU Cooler Height (mm)	PCI Expansion Slots
N2	1	5	ITX	65	1
N3	1	8	ITX	130	2
N4	2	6	ITX / M-ATX	70	4

The N4, while providing support for two 2.5″ SSDs and six 3.5″ HDDs, offers a middle ground in terms of storage capacity; it supports slightly more SSD storage than the N2 and N3 but has fewer bays for HDDs compared to the N3. This structured variation in storage capacity across the Jonsbo lineup ensures that users can select a case that best matches their specific storage requirements, from basic setups to more demanding data accumulation needs.

HOWEVER, keep in mind that only the first 4 bays of the Jonsbo N4 NAS Case support hotswapping, as the 2x 3.5″ (bay 5 and 6) and the 2x 2.5″ SATA SSD bays (bay 7 and 8) do NOT support any kind of backplane ou-the-box and require separate cabling for the individual SATA and SATA-POWER connectors. This was a very odd choice by the brand, and we cover this in more detail HERE in the written review of the N4 and HERE in the video review.

Jonsbo N3 vs N2 vs N4 – Motherboard, PCIe and Cooler Support

The Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 cases offer varied motherboard support to cater to different preferences and needs, with a particular focus on ITX form factors but with some variation in support that reflects their differing designs and intended use cases. The N2 and N3 are specifically designed for ITX motherboards, aligning with their emphasis on compact, efficient space usage while providing robust storage solutions within their size constraints. This singular focus on ITX boards in the N2 and N3 cases is ideal for users looking for NAS solutions that prioritize space-saving without sacrificing performance. The ITX form factor’s compact size allows these cases to maintain a smaller footprint, making them suitable for environments where space is at a premium.

Jonsbo N2 and N3 Motherboard Cavity

In contrast, the N4 expands its compatibility to include both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, offering greater flexibility and accommodating a broader range of user requirements. This dual compatibility allows for more significant expansion and upgrade possibilities, catering to users who may seek additional performance or connectivity options that M-ATX motherboards can provide.

The Jonsbo N4 Motherboard Cavity

The M-ATX support in the N4 not only broadens the potential use cases for the case but also makes it a more versatile choice for users who may want to repurpose or upgrade their system in the future without being constrained by the smaller ITX form factor.

Model	Motherboard Type	PCIe Expansion Slots	Max. Number of PCIe Cards	Max. PCIe Card Height	Max. PCIe Card Width	Max. CPU Cooler Height (mm)
N2	ITX	1	1 (Low profile)	Low profile	Single slot	65
N3	ITX	2	2	Standard	Up to 2 slots	130
N4	ITX / M-ATX	4	4	Standard	Up to 2 slots	70

The consideration of CPU cooler space and PCIe expansion slots further differentiates these cases. The N2 and N3 allow for CPU coolers up to 65mm and 130mm in height, respectively, reflecting their different design priorities and internal space allocations. The N4, while providing for CPU coolers up to 70mm in height, notably offers support for up to four PCIe expansion slots due to its M-ATX compatibility. This added expansion capability is a significant advantage for users looking to install additional graphics cards, network cards, or other PCIe devices, enhancing the system’s overall versatility and performance potential. The increased space and flexibility in the N4 make it an appealing option for users who prioritize expandability and upgradeability in their NAS or PC builds, offering a balance between compact design and the enhanced utility afforded by the M-ATX form factor.

Jonsbo N3 vs N2 vs N4 – Cooling and Ventilation

The cooling and ventilation strategies employed by the Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 cases are critical to their design, influencing not only their thermal management capabilities but also their aesthetic appeal and functionality. The N2 case features ventilation on the side panels, a considerable vent panel on the top, and additional venting on the rear, facilitating multidirectional airflow that supports effective heat dissipation from internal components. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for maintaining optimal operating temperatures within the compact confines of the case, ensuring that even when fully loaded with storage drives, airflow remains unimpeded. The inclusion of a large top vent is noteworthy, as it capitalizes on the natural rise of hot air, thereby enhancing the cooling efficiency without the need for excessive fan use, which can be beneficial for users seeking a quieter operation.

Jonsbo N2 NAS Case

The N3, on the other hand, extends the ventilation scheme to include vents on the sides, back, and notably, a ventilated front panel. This comprehensive approach to airflow management ensures that cool air can be drawn in from the front and expelled through the side and rear vents, creating a constant flow of air through the chassis. The ventilated front panel not only contributes to the cooling efficiency but also adds to the case’s visual identity, merging functional design with aesthetic considerations. The ability to intake air from the front is particularly beneficial for systems with multiple drives, as it helps to mitigate heat buildup around the storage bays, maintaining optimal performance of the drives and other internal components.

The N4 case adopts a similar ventilation strategy to the N2, with vents on the side panels, a large top vent, and rear ventilation, ensuring ample airflow through the case. However, it distinguishes itself with a wooden front panel that covers half of the front, adding a unique aesthetic touch while still allowing for air intake through the lower half of the front panel. This design choice strikes a balance between form and function, offering effective cooling by combining the benefits of the N2’s ventilation pattern with a stylistic differentiation. The wooden panel adds a touch of elegance and natural texture to the case, setting it apart visually from many other NAS and PC cases on the market, without compromising on the thermal management aspect.

Across all three models, the use of rubber pull handles on the drive bays instead of trays not only simplifies the installation and removal process but also reduces vibration transmission, contributing to quieter operation. This design choice reflects a thoughtful consideration of usability and noise reduction, further enhancing the user experience.

Jonsbo N3 vs N2 vs N4 – Conclusion and Verdict, Which Should You Choose?

The Jonsbo N2, N3, and N4 NAS cases offer a diverse range of options catering to various user needs, from compact, efficient storage solutions to more versatile systems that allow for significant expansion and customization. The N2 stands out for its compact design and efficient use of space, making it ideal for users seeking a minimal footprint without sacrificing storage capability. Its focused cooling strategy ensures that it remains suitable for environments where noise levels and space are critical considerations. The N3, with its expanded storage capacity and comprehensive ventilation system, caters to users requiring more extensive data storage without venturing into the realm of bulkier, less aesthetically pleasing solutions. Its design balances the need for increased storage with effective thermal management, making it a compelling option for power users in need of a compact yet capable NAS case. On the other hand, the N4 broadens the horizon with its support for both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, offering a bridge between compact NAS solutions and more expansive PC builds. Its unique aesthetic, highlighted by the wooden front panel, adds a touch of sophistication, distinguishing it from typical NAS and PC cases. The N4’s design flexibility, coupled with effective cooling and ventilation, positions it as a versatile choice for users who prioritize both form and function. Across the board, Jonsbo’s NAS cases reflect a commitment to quality, innovation, and user-focused design. Whether prioritizing compactness, storage capacity, or flexibility in motherboard support, users are provided with thoughtfully designed options that do not compromise on performance or aesthetic appeal, making the N2, N3, and N4 standout choices in their respective categories.

N2 Best for Low/Efficient NAS Deployment Lowest Price Point Smallest Physical Footprint Smallest Storage Capacity Only 1 PCIe Card Slot and Half Height	N3 Best for  a Power NAS Build + Bigger CPU Cooling Largest Storage Capacity + Full Size PCIe Cards Best Prosumer Deployment BIG Size and oddly tall Noisiest System of the Three	N4 Better MoBo Compatibility (MITX and MATX) Best Size vs Storage Option + 4x PCIe Slots Most Conventially Aesthetically Appealing Most Expensive PCIe Cards Must Be Half Height
======= Where To Buy? =======
$76 (Check Aliexpress HERE)	$99.42 (Check Aliexpress HERE)	$76.99 (Check Aliexpress HERE)
$149 (Check Amazon HERE)	$170 (Check Amazon HERE)	$199* (Check Amazon HERE)

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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

 

Terramaster NAS Release TOS 6 in Beta

The release of Terramaster TOS 6 Beta for NAS devices marks a significant milestone in the evolution of NAS operating systems, with an array of new features and comprehensive improvements designed to enhance user experience, system performance, and security. This sixth iteration introduces a radically redesigned user interface and integrates more than 40 new functionalities while refining over 370 aspects, ensuring a top-tier upgrade for TNAS users.

Expanded Key Features and Improvements in TOS 6

• Linux Kernel 6.1 LTS Upgrade: Transitioning to the latest Linux kernel version, TOS 6 benefits from improved scheduling algorithms, enhanced memory management, superior file system support, optimized network performance, advanced security features, and better power management. This upgrade facilitates a more robust and efficient system, capable of handling the demands of both home and enterprise environments with ease.

• Revolutionized Docker Manager 2.0.16: This release introduces Docker Compose project management, adding a new dimension to container orchestration on TNAS devices. The addition of a container terminal and system notifications for Docker image operations streamlines container management. These enhancements, combined with UI and functionality optimizations, cater to developers and IT professionals seeking a versatile platform for containerized applications.

• File Manager Overhaul: With user feedback and industry best practices in mind, the File Manager has been retooled to offer an intuitive, efficient file navigation and management experience. Features such as enhanced directory navigation, column display mode for deep folder hierarchy exploration, tabbed browsing, adjustable thumbnail sizes, and a suite of new file operation tools significantly elevate user productivity.

• Online Disk Wiping: This new utility offers a straightforward solution for securely erasing all data from disks directly within the TOS interface, facilitating easy preparation of drives for repurposing or disposal without the need for external tools.
• Cloud Drive Mounting: Seamlessly integrate cloud storage services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and more directly into TNAS. This feature enhances the flexibility of data access and management, allowing for efficient data synchronization and sharing between local and cloud storage.

• Security and Privacy Control (SPC): Introducing a robust security framework designed to prevent unauthorized execution of programs on TNAS devices. SPC enhances the overall security posture by ensuring only vetted and authorized applications can run, significantly reducing the risk of malware and ransomware infections.

• SMB Multichannel Support: By enabling multiple network connections for SMB file sharing, TOS 6 ensures higher data transfer speeds, improved reliability, and enhanced redundancy. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi-user environments where network performance directly impacts productivity.
• Direct Data Drive Mounting: Offering unparalleled convenience, this feature allows users to access data on external drives without the need for disk reformatting or repartitioning, preserving existing data while extending the storage capabilities of TNAS devices.
• Storage Pool Migration: Streamlines the process of migrating storage pools between TNAS devices, aiding users in hardware upgrades or replacements without the hassle of data migration or system reconfiguration.
• Advanced ACL Permissions: Delivers granular access control with 13 additional customizable permissions on top of the standard read, write, and deny options. This advanced permission management system enables precise control over data access, ensuring data security and compliance.

TOS 6 Beta System Enhancements

TOS 6 introduces a slew of system-wide enhancements aimed at delivering a more stable, secure, and user-friendly NAS operating environment:

• Performance and Stability: With the new Linux kernel and system optimizations, TOS 6 offers improved system stability and performance, ensuring that TNAS devices can handle intensive tasks and larger volumes of data more efficiently.
• Hardware and Innovation Support: Prepared for the future, TOS 6 includes support for the latest hardware innovations, such as Intel’s “Meteor Lake” chips, and introduces new data structures and error decoding capabilities for enhanced data processing and system reliability.
• Enhanced Security Measures: Building upon TerraMaster’s commitment to security, new features like customizable HTTPS certificates, optimized firewall rule settings, and the innovative SPC module significantly enhance the protection of user data against external threats.
• User Interface and Usability Improvements: From a streamlined desktop design and simplified navigation to a new “Start” menu and customizable user avatars, TOS 6 focuses on creating a more engaging and personalized user experience.
• Comprehensive Application and Service Enhancements: The update enriches the application ecosystem with new functionalities, improved file services, and advanced storage features, catering to a wide range of user needs from media indexing and scheduled task notifications to cross-platform data interoperability and USB storage device health management.

Through these extensive features and improvements, TOS 6 Beta not only advances the capabilities of TNAS devices but also sets a new standard for NAS operating systems, offering a sophisticated platform for storage, management, and security that meets the evolving needs of both individual and enterprise users.

How To Access the TOS 6 Beta – Update Instructions

Applicable models:
F2-221, F2-223, F2-422, F2-423, F2-424
F4-221, F4-223, F4-421, F4-422, F4-423, F4-424, F4-424 Pro, U4-111, U4-423
F5-221, F5-421, F5-422
T6-423
F8-421, F8-422, U8-111, U8-420, U8-423, U8-450, U8-322-9100, U8-522-9400, U8-722-2224
T9-423, T9-450
T12-423, T12-450, U12-423, U12-322-9100, U12-722-2224
U16-322-9100, U16-722-2224, U16-722-2288
U24-612, U24-722-2224

Applicable TOS Versions:
TOS 5.1.123 or later versions; if your device does not meet the update requirements, please do not update! Otherwise, system crashes may occur.

Precautions:
1. The Beta version is an early version of the program, containing most major functions but not yet completed, and may have some defects. This version is only released to specific groups or the general public for testing and feedback collection; the Beta version should not be used in work or production environments. If your TNAS device is running business operations or storing important data, please refrain from participating in this test.
2. Updating the system theoretically will not affect the data on your hard drive, but for safety reasons, please be sure to back up your data in advance.
3. After the update, if applications such as Plex, Emby, Aria2, etc., need to access new shared folders, you will need to reconfigure application user permissions.
4. Previously created firewall rules will be cleared, and you will need to create new firewall rules after the update.
5. If you are using port 5444, you will need to modify this port before updating.
6. After the update, TNAS will exit the domain, and you will need to rejoin the domain and refresh domain users.
7. After the update, if your encrypted shared file key contains special characters, you can only mount it by entering the key.
8. System configuration backups from TOS 5 cannot be restored to TOS 6.
9. Hyper Cache created before the update will become invalid after the update; it is recommended to uninstall Hyper Cache before updating.
10. Docker Manager versions 1.1.99 or earlier cannot run on TOS 6; please update Docker Manager before updating the system.

How to Update to TOS 6 Beta on Your Terramaster NAS?

1. Download the TOS 6 Beta update package: TOS 6 (md5:821b697ddb27dbc9c95ce2be398c791b)
2. Go to TOS > Control Panel > General Settings > System;
3. Under “Manual Update”, upload the update package;
4. Click “Apply”;
5. After the system update is complete, you will need to refresh your browser;
6. Your TNAS IP address may change after the system update. If you are unable to connect to your TNAS using the previous IP address, please use the TNAS PC client to search for the new IP address again.

Other Software Downloads:
TNAS PC for Windows OS: https://tos-downloads.oss-cn-hongkong.a … .1.352.exe
TNAS PC for macOS: https://download2.terra-master.com/TNAS … versal.dmg
TNAS Mobile for Android:https://download2.terra-master.com/TNAS … 3.2.31.apk
TNAS Mobile for iOS: Download from the iOS App Store. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
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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

 

UGREEN DXP480T NASync SSD NAS Review

What exactly IS the DXP480T? Ever since UGREEN launched their NASync range of NAS devices on Kickstarter, there has been a lot of interest in this computer accessories and peripheral company making its big move into Network Attached Storage. No doubt hoping to challenge this market’s leaders Synology and QNAP, UGREEN have revealed a 6 system series (the DXP range) and although the first 5 of them are interesting enough, it is the compact yet powerful NVMe Flash-equipped NASync DXP480T that has drawn many a hungry I.T user’s eye! Arriving with a 10 Core Intel i5 Processor, DDR5 memory, PCIe Gen 4 Architecture, 4x m.2 2280 NVMe SSD bays, 10GbE networking, Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wifi 6E connectivity – There is ALOT crammed into this tiny little box! Add to this the ‘still in development’ UGOS NAS software that is included with the system and the $479-519 price tag for early access on Kickstarter (going up to $799 RRP when it hits ACTUAL retail) and what you have here is a fantastic proposition for photo and video editors that are looking for a small footprint, low noise, but high-performance private server. But is it too good to be true? Is there too much hardware in there to stay cool? And why is a big brand like UGREEN turning to crowdfunding? Let’s discuss the DXP480T and whether it deserves your money and your data.

Note – The YouTube Review of the DXP480T NAS is Available HERE

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

There is ALOT of like her in the UGREEN DXP480T Flash NAS! Right now there is little to no alternative to this product in the market. Flash/SSD NAS has been around for a long time and even M.2 NVMe NAS systems have been cropping up in one form or another for 2+ years. But desktop and home-accessible M.2 NVMe Flash NAS solutions? Barely any. Notable alternatives such as the storage-rich Asustor Flashstor 6 / 12 Pro or the performance-rich QNAP TBS-464 or TBS-h574TX have been launched in the last 12 months, but the DXP480T is more powerful than the former and less expensive than the latter. However UGREEN and it’s DXP/NASync series are still very, VERY new in the market (green?) and alongside their NAS software being still a good distance away from fully stable, the choice to launch this new series of devices on crowdfunding is still a little puzzling for 12-14 year established brand in the tech sector. The system is fantastically compact, powerful for the scale, very rich in hardware features and all of this rollout out on a price tag at both early backer Kickstarter and eventual retail RRP that is highly challenging to beat!

But this is still a product that is not finished yet and therefore we need to keep that in mind! If this NAS an unfinished game, it is not ‘Cyberpunk’ or No Man Sky’ levels of incomplete – but it is still a good 20-30% unfinished in terms of features and optimization. I will be certainly keeping an eye on UGREEN as they progress, and hopefully they will challenge the status quo of Synology and QNAP right now, but we will have to wait and see. Bottom line, the DXP480T is 100% the BEST M.2 NVMe NAS system for it’s scale in terms of hardware, it’s just the rest of the software development going through the usual beta testing that is holding it back from greatness. Recent softening by UGREEN with regard to users installing 3rd party operating systems (TrueNAS, UnRAID, Open Media Vault, Proxmox hypervisor, etc) with regard to hardware warranty has definitely resolved/calmed the apprehension by many users though, so the beta software hurdle might not even be an issue for you. The crowdfunding still at has 30 days left (at the time of writing) and 9,800 backers pledging over $4,00,000 of funding seems to indicate this! But as always, this is crowdfunding and not traditional retail, so use caution! The DXP480T is a solid and unique system and I hope to talk even more about this and UGREEN spin-offs in future!

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review –  Retail Package

The retail kit for this system arrives impressively polished for a product still in its crowdfunding phase, featuring a well-decorated and well-presented retail package that efficiently packs a surprising amount of equipment into a modestly sized box.

Upon opening the stylish retail package, you’re welcomed by the system itself, encased in a protective matte plastic wrap. Remarkably compact for a four-bay (technically five) NAS system, it’s slightly larger than a mini PC, making it one of the smallest NAS systems reviewed on NAS compares.

The kit is comprehensive, excluding storage, including a gold-tipped Ethernet cable, thermal pads for M.2 NVMe SSD bays, extra screws, a setup manual, warranty information, and an external PSU.

Notably, the system comes with an official UGreen 140W PSU, reflecting the brand’s reputation for quality power supplies. The inclusion of first-party designed and branded components emphasizes the product’s proprietary nature, distinguishing it from rebranded hardware.

The entire retail kit’s presentation is thoroughly executed, showcasing a thoughtful design even in details like the instruction booklet—a feature many brands have phased out.

 

Every component’s quality is top-notch, setting the stage for a discussion on the DXP480T NAS’s design.

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Design

At a casual glance, you might easily assume that the DXP480T is a mini PC masquerading as a NAS. Given the influx of SOC-powered mini PCs from Eastern brands at low prices, this assumption wouldn’t be far-fetched. However, the DXP480T’s design is meticulously tailored to NAS functionality, with internal components arranged to optimize heat dissipation across its M.2 NVMe slots. This compact unit measures just 17.9cm x 14.2cm x 5.2cm, yet manages to house four M.2 2280 slots and an additional internal 2242 M.2 slot for the UGreen OS, making it one of the smallest NAS systems reviewed here on NAScompares and around half a kilo in weight!

Despite its compact size, the DXP480T does not support hot swapping due to its closed physical enclosure and the nature of M.2 drives, though E1.S drives are starting to challenge this norm. The chassis design is a balanced act of 50% active airflow and 50% heat dissipation, featuring plastic outer edges and a top composed of multiple heat dissipation panels connected to the internal hardware, alongside a large heatsink base with two built-in laptop-scale fans. This design emphasizes cleanliness and efficiency, given its storage capacity.

UGreen’s branding is prominent throughout, establishing a distinctive ‘house style’ for the NASync/DXP series right out of the gate. The system’s dimensions (18cm wide, 14cm deep, and 5.5cm tall, including rubber feet) enhance its appeal, offering a streamlined aesthetic without sacrificing functionality.

The fan-assisted panel, secured by two screws, hinges off to reveal the NVMe storage and the intricately designed heat dissipation panel surrounding it. Despite the limited physical space, UGreen has ingeniously incorporated ventilation from nearly every angle, maximizing passive airflow through mesh-covered vents on four of the system’s six sides.

This setup exposes four M.2 SSD slots, distinguished by build quality and clarity in design. However, the use of external face panels for active cooling restricts the use of SSDs with their own heatsinks. UGreen includes high-quality heat pads that align perfectly with SSD chips, compensating for this limitation.

Internally, the slots are divided into two speeds, likely due to the processor’s PCI lane availability, offering Gen 4 x 4 for the first two slots and PCIe Gen 3 x 2 for the remaining two. This strategic decision, driven by necessity, positions the DXP480T favorably against competitors, even if it means accepting some compromises in SSD speeds.

The minimalistic design extends to the system’s front, featuring only a single LED for power, omitting front-mounted USB ports for local backups. This choice, likely a trade-off for internal design efficiency, may disappoint some users looking for more convenient connectivity options.

In summary, the DXP480T’s design impresses with its compact form factor, efficient heat management, and thoughtful branding. While not without its limitations, particularly in external connectivity, UGreen’s meticulous attention to detail positions this NAS as a compelling option for users prioritizing sleek design and effective thermal management.

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Ports and Connections

As previously mentioned, the DXP480T’s ports and connectivity are located at the system’s rear, which results in a somewhat crowded arrangement and necessitates a few compromises.

One significant compromise concerning the device’s ports is its network connectivity. The system features a default 10GbE over a copper RJ45 connection, offering potential bandwidth of up to 1000 megabytes per second. This feature stands out, especially when considering the device’s competitive pricing compared to other NAS devices released in the last two years. However, the downside is that this is the sole physical network port, limiting options for failover or assigning service priorities to different IPs and devices.

The system compensates for this single network port to some extent with wireless connectivity.

An internal M.2 Wi-Fi card connector houses a Wi-Fi 6E network adapter and two antennas, supporting both host and client interfaces.

However, the current beta version of UGreen’s UGOS NAS software does not stably support this feature, and full development completion is still pending.

Additionally, the DXP480T offers Thunderbolt 4 connectivity via two USB-C connections. While Thunderbolt-enabled NAS devices are becoming popular in post-production environments, the DXP480T’s Thunderbolt ports are limited to host use, not supporting direct connections to Mac or Windows devices as clients. UGreen is exploring options to enable two-way communication for these ports. The device also includes USB 3 and USB 2 connections for storage and peripherals, and while direct host-client interfacing over USB is not supported, these connections add to the system’s versatility. However, the lack of a front-mounted USB port for easy local backups is a notable omission.

There is also an HDMI output, however at this time it can only be used for multimedia via the UGOS and is actioned via the mobile application (with doubles as a remote control). Unfortunately, this is not possible via the desktop/browser GUI and also HDMI access as a parallel GUI (either via an app in the docker/container app, a 3rd party media app like Plex/Emby/Jellyfin or an official HDMI GUI Portal that is comparable to HD Station from QNAP or Asustor Portal)

Despite these limitations, the inclusion of 10 GBE and basic Thunderbolt connectivity in such a compact NAS device, at a competitive price point, is commendable. However, the potential long-term system temperature remains a concern.

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Internal Hardware

When it comes to any kind of NAS system that focuses on SSD media, the internal hardware and layout of the system are paramount. SSD media, when overheated, will inevitably throttle, affecting both its performance and that of the surrounding system. Essentially, heat is the Achilles’ heel of flash SSD systems, and given the DXP480T’s compact size, significant effort will need to be made to manage this.

Equipped with a 10-core i5 processor, 8GB of DDR5 memory, ample storage bays, a dedicated OS SSD, a Wi-Fi card, and a 10G controller, it’s a challenge to fit all this into such a small enclosure. Initially, removing two screws around the storage media bays reveals a plastic layer.

Within, we find each of the individual 2280 M.2 NVMe slots. We also discover the SODIMM DDR5 memory slots, one of which is populated by a Samsung DDR5 memory module. Although the system doesn’t support ECC memory, it benefits from the native DDR5 support for on-die error correction. Nonetheless, many storage enthusiasts will likely be disappointed by the lack of ECC support in a flash server system.

As previously mentioned, the system includes a Wi-Fi 6 Intel wireless adapter connected to two internal antennas that encircle the system. It’s a tidy setup, and barring an upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the future, there’s little need for changes. It’s debatable how many users will utilize the 1.2Gbps connectivity offered by Wi-Fi 6E; though technically faster than traditional gigabit LAN, effective use requires close proximity. Despite this, it offers a form of failover for this system with a single physical ethernet connection.

The system also arrives with the UGreen NAS software pre-installed on a 2242 Phison E13 controller SSD, set in a Gen 3 x4 slot. Choosing to install the OS on a dedicated SSD, rather than through an eMMC or USB drive, will please some and annoy others. Typically, NAS brands use a bootloader on a small internal drive to install the OS on the main storage array, affecting the system’s performance based on the internal storage media used. Opting to install the OS directly onto an SSD ensures that system services and software run independently, not impacting the performance of the storage media, allowing for operation with new disks if necessary. However, this also means the OS drive lacks backup or redundancy, rendering the system inoperable should the drive fail, potentially damaging the storage media during intense operations. There are pros and cons, but overall, it seems preferable for the system software and services to reside on their dedicated SSD or partition.

Removing additional screws unveils the system’s core. It’s astonishing how much is packed into such a compact enclosure! The heart of the DXP480T features a custom micro-ITX board, housing an Intel i5 10-core processor (2p + 8e), integrated graphics, 20 PCIe lanes, and a maximum 55W TDP. Despite its compact SOC form, this 12th generation Intel i5 processor offers substantial power, benchmarking well against the N100 and Pentium 8505 models in other UGreen NAS models.

Testing this processor, especially in this early crowdfunding prototype, presents challenges. The DXP480T, like the rest of the UGreen NAS line-up, doesn’t officially support third-party OS installation without voiding the warranty. Consequently, we’re limited in our ability to benchmark using third-party OSs or reference previous benchmarks for similar architectures. The UGreen NAS’s operating system, still in beta, requires further optimization to fully showcase what the hardware can achieve.

This processor is well-equipped with sufficient PCIe lanes to manage the four M.2 NVMe SSDs, offering respectable speeds through SSH. The main concern with this processor selection is the lack of ECC memory support, crucial for high-speed flash systems to minimize bit errors during intensive operations.

Although SOC processors that support ECC are rare, especially from Intel, using one for this system and potentially for the DXP8800 Pro could significantly impact the price and development timeline. Nevertheless, this CPU is arguably the best choice for such a compact system in 2024, balancing power efficiency, heat management, and performance capabilities.

UGREEN DXP480T NASync NAS Tests

The Noise level of the system when in operation is very low and is genuinely only noticeable during busy periods when the twin base mini laptop style fans kick in. Here are the dB levels of the system when in idle/standby:

UGREEN DXP480T IDLE/STANDBY NOISE:

And here is the noise level of the system when the fans are in full active/use:

UGREEN DXP480T ACTIVE USE / FULL FAN NOISE:

The construction of the DXP480T flash NAS deserves high praise. Rather than modifying a mini PC case, UGreen designed a compact flash system from scratch, demonstrating considerable care and attention to component placement. The hardware is undoubtedly attractive, further emphasized by our deep dive into this and the DXP4800 Plus models. Yet, the performance and capabilities of the software remain to be seen.

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Performance & Software

The performance of the UGREEN DXP480T is something of a mixed bag. Clearly, compromises have needed to balance between the hardware resources on offer here and to keep the system’s smaller scale. For example, the 2x Gen 4×4 slots are only possible thanks to the scaling back of the 2x Gen 3×2 slots. They COULD have scaled all the slots (with a decent enough PCIe switch/controller) to all be 3×2 via bifurcation, but I think I prefer the 2 higher-performing slots at least giving me the chance to hit 5-7GB/s. I do wonder what they mean for those who plan on spreading a RAID 5 on the 4 M.2 NVMes – as this effectively means you have 2 drives with more bandwidth and irregular write across the 4 disks potentially (though realistically, it will just end up capping at the speed of drives 3 and 4). The performance of the DXP480T Flash system can be broken down into 2 main areas. Internal Performance and External Performance.

The Storage manager of UGOS features it’s on benchmarking tools that can be used per drive. The initial performance when I was using an early version of the software was severely unoptimized, but regular updates for the UGOS beta has rolled out almost weekly and with each, there has definitely been improvements in the system responsiveness and the performance of the drives. At the most recent test of the software, the Gen 4×4 slots of the system (populated with Phison E18 4×4 M.2 NVMes from Seagate Firecude 530 and Addlink A95) were hitting 5,100-5,500MB/s (5.5GB/s) performance. This is still around 1000MB/s less than what these drives are capable of (factoring in the mobile SoC processor and 8GB RAM), but as the software and services are still in beta, this performance might continue to improve throughout development. Then I ran the same test on the PCIe Gen 3×2 slots on the DXP480T. These ports were populated by Teamgroup T-Force Gen 3×4 SSDs, which have a reported 3,100MB/s performance when used in a x4 slot. However, as slot 3 and 4 of the DXP480T are Gen 3×2, I wondered how this would shake out. I was pleased to see a speed of 1.5-1.8GB/S – exactly what I wanted to see!

Then I accessed the system via SSH and used putty to directly benchmark the SSDs over cl. There was definitely some internal caching taking place in the early tests, however, the performance was still averaging around 5.5-6GB/s, which was very pleasing.

However, in order to ascertain if the SSDs in slots 1 and 2 were sharing any controller/switch (maybe even a larger lane being separated into the other 2 slots) I actioned data transfer between SSD 1 and SSD 2. The speed unsurprisingly halved, but was still much, much between the 1-1.5GB/s I encountered when performing this test 2 weeks and 2 firmware updates ago! Now I was hitting 2.5-3GB/s. For internal bandwidth saturation internally on this scale, that is still pretty good.

Then I performed numerous Windows 10GbE transfer tests. The Windows transfer of 20GB of data hit a clean 1,000MB/s saturation when I was using synthetic testing, but traditional transfers on Read activity (to my Windows 10, Gen 4×4 SSD OS Client) peaked at 550MB/s, but the Write was a little under 500MB/s. This decreased fairly rapidly over sustained performance as very clear oversaturation took hold. Upon raising this with the brand in advance of this review for comment, UGREEN told me that SMB performance and transfers are still undergoing optimization. I hope this is the case!

This continued to be the performance mark when I ran an AJA benchmark.

Crystal disk was run twice (using 2 different file size scales, 64MB and 1GB) and once again Read largely saturated the connection, whilst Write was still only 50-65% saturating the available 10GbE bandwidth.

Then I ended on an ATTO Diskbenchmark test that was..frankly.. wild! It was a fairly consistent 700-800MB/s on average, but the perpetual and sustained performance of ATTO benchmarks to the system definitely revealed some of the areas where optimization is still needed and the system was quickly oversaturated (fans ramping up quickly, the memory use very high for the comparatively simple task).

There is definitely some good performance potential here in the DXP480T – as long as UGREEN continue to improve and optimize. This is a prototype review unit (i.e a review unit provided prior to crowdfunding) and certainly feels that way – but numerous software patches that arrived BEFORE the crowdfunding arrived that improved things granularly and I have no reason to  believe that this will not continue from now till when/if the system begins fulfilment at crowdfunding and eventual full retail. Watch the video below to see the tests in full (it skips ahead directly to the testing):

Click Below to SKIP AHEAD to the Performance Testing of the DXP480T NAS

At the time of writing, the UGREEN NAS software is still in beta, with the mobile application is live now. Reviewing the software included with the DXP480T —as a final product— feels somewhat premature. The NASsync software beta reveals many baseline functions and long-term plans, which you can watch in the video version of the UGREEN UGOS NAS Software Beta Review in the video below:

You can read the MASSIVE Software review (covering the Desktop and Mobile experience) HERE on the NASCompares Review Article.

Regarding Power Consumption Tests of the UGREEN DXP480T NAS

NOTE – Power consumption tests were performed on the DXP480T during an earlier software beta revision. However, 3 further software and system service updates have been issued since these power consumption tests were performed 3 weeks ago and UGREEN (and a fellow YouTube Reviewer) have stated that this has improved the power efficiency of the system. Therefore in the interests of fairness (as the performance testing was performed on this later software revision (v1.0.0.0334), I have withdrawn my power test result and will be retesting soon and presenting it here + in a later video, as time allows.

The TL;DR on the UGREEN NAS software

The software is on track to become a smooth and user-friendly experience, comparable to giants like Synology and QNAP, especially in terms of the web browser experience. Unlike opting for the complexity of TrueNAS or the streamlined, container-focused UI of UnRAID, the UGREEN NAS software is more akin to Synology DSM. The foundation is clearly laid out for expansion in terms of features and tools for the user’s disposal. However, there are notable absences of baseline applications such as container or virtual machine support, and a multi-tiered backup solution within the web GUI (though the UGREEN NAS mobile and desktop clients are in development, expected to preview in March). Basic services for file management, shares, user account control, and an app center—soon to be linked to a repository—are all user-friendly but present some inconsistencies, likely due to its beta status and ongoing development. The physical product may be closer to final development, but the software needs more time for optimization. SMB services were less consistent than desired, and settings changes sometimes didn’t save or recall correctly. This is common for beta software finding its footing, yet it’s important to note that the hardware feels more refined than the software at this stage, months before user delivery. In brief:

What I liked:

• Intuitive UI with services located logically and responsive controls.
• The mobile application for iOS and Android is one of the best I have ever used in NAS!
• Baseline services such as network interface management, user account control, firewall handling, and SSH interface control are all present.
• A clearly defined app center awaiting connection to an online repository.
• Helpful tips and guidance are available on most pages, aiding new users.
• Support for modern services like SMB3 multi-channel and domain services in the beta.
• Clear account and resource management accessible from the desktop, likely appealing to most users.
• The inclusion of a remote access relay service and UGREEN account creation from day one, simplifying remote access for new users with built-in firewall and domain tools.
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – The HDMI output is now full controllable via the mobile application and is intuitive
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – A Docker application has now been added with access to numerous repository options!
• UPDATE 5/4/24 – SSH is now disabled by default

What I disliked:

• Absence of two-factor authentication in the software.
• Lack of virtualization applications at this stage.
• Sporadic SMB performance.
• The Security Advisor tool is only suitable for Antivirus and Anti-Maleware protection, not to scan the system for security weaknesses and advisory actions
• The HDMI output cannot be used by the desktop/browser user to the same extent as the mobile application + cannot be used by container tools (Plex, Home Automation, etc)
• In-progress language integration, leading to occasional default displays in Chinese or error messages in Chinese despite English settings.

Improvements needed:

• Expansion of app integration and desktop client tools for easier system-client bridging.
• Introduction of a default application for device discovery on the local network, a basic service offered by many NAS brands.
• More information on UGREEN account and remote access security.

Acknowledging this is a beta, it’s fair to reserve full judgment until the software fully rolls out. As it stands, this beta is promising yet lacks some established NAS software fundamentals. Hopefully, we’ll see significant advancements as the release approaches.

Ugreen DXP480T NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

There is ALOT of like her in the UGREEN DXP480T Flash NAS! Right now there is little to no alternative to this product in the market. Flash/SSD NAS has been around for a long time and even M.2 NVMe NAS systems have been cropping up in one form or another for 2+ years. But desktop and home-accessible M.2 NVMe Flash NAS solutions? Barely any. Notable alternatives such as the storage-rich Asustor Flashstor 6 / 12 Pro or the performance-rich QNAP TBS-464 or TBS-h574TX have been launched in the last 12 months, but the DXP480T is more powerful than the former and less expensive than the latter. However UGREEN and it’s DXP/NASync series are still very, VERY new in the market (green?) and alongside their NAS software being still a good distance away from fully stable, the choice to launch this new series of devices on crowdfunding is still a little puzzling for 12-14 year established brand in the tech sector. The system is fantastically compact, powerful for the scale, very rich in hardware features and all of this rollout out on a price tag at both early backer Kickstarter and eventual retail RRP that is highly challenging to beat! But this is still a product that is not finished yet and therefore we need to keep that in mind! If this NAS was an unfinished game, it is not ‘Cyberpunk’ or No Man Sky’ levels of incomplete – but it is still a good 20-30% unfinished in terms of features and optimization. I will be certainly keeping an eye on UGREEN as they progress, and hopefully they will challenge the status quo of Synology and QNAP right now, but we will have to wait and see. Bottom line, the DXP480T is 100% the BEST M.2 NVMe NAS system for it’s scale in terms of hardware, it’s just the rest of the software development going through the usual beta testing that is holding it back from greatness. Recent softening by UGREEN with regard to users installing 3rd party operating systems (TrueNAS, UnRAID, Open Media Vault, Proxmox hypervisor, etc) with regard to hardware warranty has definitely resolved/calmed the apprehension by many users though, so the beta software hurdle might not even be an issue for you. The crowdfunding still at has 30 days left (at the time of writing) and 9,800 backers pledging over $4,00,000 of funding seems to indicate this! But as always, this is crowdfunding and not traditional retail, so use caution! The DXP480T is a solid and unique system and I hope to talk even more about this and UGREEN spin-offs in future!

PROS of the UGREEN DXP480T NAS

CONS of the UGREEN DXP480T NAS

Exceptional Hardware for the Price4 x M.2 NVMe Flash system at this scale+price is fantastic! Great CPU Power vs Efficiency in the i5-1235u 10GbE as standard is excellentWiFi 6E adds an extra and variable access method10/10 Build Quality Great Scalability Fantastic Mobile Application (even vs Synology and QNAP etc) Desktop/Browser GUI shows promise Established Brand entering the NAS Market Low Noise Very Appealing retail package+accessoriesThunderbolt 4 connectivity ensures FAST local backups The Operating System SSD does not occupy a storage bay (extra 2242 m.2 SSD included)

10GbE Performance was bit underwhelming Crowdfunding choice is confusing Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 22/3/24 Only 1x Physical Network port means no wired failover Although 2 of the slots are 4×4 Speed, hardware lane limits mean 2 of the slots are 3×2

Click the Link Below to find out more about the UGREEN NASync NAS Series on the brand’s official Site:

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