Terramaster new TOS 7 NAS Software Beta Ready to Test
December 15, 2025 | TerraMaster, a professional storage brand dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for home users, businesses, and developers, today officially launches the public beta of TOS 7. This highly anticipated release, developed over nearly two years by a team of more than 100 engineers, not only celebrates the 15th anniversary of the TOS operating system but also marks its stunning transformation from a simple storage tool into a full-featured private cloud platform. Looking back to 2011, TOS 1.0 debuted alongside TerraMaster’s very first NAS product. Back then, the interface was bare-bones—you could create shared folders, enable SMB, and add a handful of user accounts. It was simple, almost primitive, but it laid a rock-solid foundation.
Fifteen years later, TOS has evolved into its 7th generation. A single TerraMaster NAS can now effortlessly serve as a file server, virtual machine host, developer workstation, online collaboration platform, or even an enterprise-grade permissions fortress. Throughout this journey, we’ve kept asking ourselves one core question: How should a device that people interact with dozens of times a day actually be designed to truly fit the way you work?
With TOS 7, the answer is finally here—and it’s within reach. Built on a brand-new kernel (upgraded to Linux 6.12) and a completely refreshed design language, TOS 7 features 90% newly drawn icons and over 1,000 refined interaction details, making every operation more intuitive, smoother, and faster than ever before.
Transform into an All-Powerful Host and Unleash Unlimited Possibilities
TOS 7 marks the first time we’ve opened full root access while seamlessly integrating official Ubuntu repositories. Developers can now instantly install Nginx, Node.js, Python environments, databases, or compilers using apt—turning your NAS into a fully SSH-accessible Linux server with zero jailbreaking and zero third-party plugins. It’s all native.
The built-in Virtual Machines (VMs) module lets you deploy Windows, Linux, macOS (on supported hardware), or any distro with a single click. Whether you’re building test environments, migrating legacy systems, isolating applications, or creating a compact private cloud, TOS 7 squeezes every last drop of performance from your hardware and turns your NAS into a true flexible computing hub.
Collaboration with Zero Barriers – Your Data Stays Local Forever
Say goodbye to the old “download-edit-upload” hassle. TOS 7 natively integrates online Office tools that support real-time viewing and multi-user collaborative editing of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files. Documents are saved directly on your NAS—no third-party cloud, no extra subscription fees. Changes sync in seconds, boosting team productivity by 100%. Your data, always under your control.
Search as Smooth as Thought – Instant Response for Millions of Files
Our in-house global search engine combines inverted indexing, kernel-level real-time file monitoring, and asynchronous I/O caching to deliver second-level full-disk scans for millions of files — 10× faster than TOS 6, with 120% higher search accuracy. No need for exact filenames; just type a keyword and get precise hits instantly. File management efficiency jumps by 60%.
Granular Permissions Down to the Thread – Rock-Solid Security
The permission system has been expanded from 3 basic types to 13 combinable domain-based ACL policies, with fully customizable rules (e.g., “department can only read/write specific folders and is prohibited from deleting”). Setup time is 99.6% shorter than TOS 6 — complex authorizations are done in seconds — striking the perfect balance between ironclad data security and flexible access control.
How to Access the Terramaster TOS 7 Beta?
After over 300 days of meticulous development and the collaborative efforts of hundreds of engineers, we have developed the all-new TOS 7 for you—more user-friendly and visually refined. With over 50 new features and more than 1,000 detailed optimizations, TOS 7 delivers a faster response, smoother interactions, and a more elegant interface. Designed with forward-looking interaction concepts, it achieves a comprehensive transformation from the inside out, ushering you into a refreshing new era of operation.
Download the TOS 7 Software Here (Read the notesr below first)
Conditional Compatible Models(Read the following Special Notes): • F2-221,F2-422, F4-221, F4-421, F4-422, F5-221, F5-421, and F5-422 • F8 SSD and F8 SSD Plus • F2-223, F2-423, F4-223, F4-423, T6-423, T9-423, T12-423, U4-423, U8-423, and U12-423
Special Notes: • For users of F2-221,F2-422, F4-221, F4-421, F4-422, F5-221, F5-421, and F5-422: Please first verify that your BIOS version falls within the range of MAPL0304V16 to V22 or MAPL0303V16 to V22. Otherwise, you will not be able to update to TOS 7. How to check: Go to TOS Control Panel > System > Update to view your BIOS version. • For F8 SSD and F8 SSD Plus users: Before updating, you must first update the system to version 6.0.794 (the firmware will be updated during the system update). If you directly installed TOS 6.0.794 via an installation package, please manually update TOS 6.0.794 once again, and then update to TOS 7. • For users of F2-223, F2-423, F4-223, F4-423, T6-423, T9-423, T12-423, U4-423, U8-423, and U12-423: If your TOS system is currently installed or planned to be installed on an M.2 NVMe SSD, please adjust the BIOS boot order according to the guide before proceeding with the update.
Warning:
1. This update is only applicable to version 6.0.794 or higher.
2. TOS 7 adopts a completely new permission management method. After the update, permission conversion is required. It is recommended to choose automatic conversion. This process is time-consuming, please wait patiently (for example, approximately 400,000 folders may take about 3 hours).
3. After the update, besides the storage pools and volumes in normal use, the Storage Manager interface may display several corrupted storage pools and volumes caused by abnormal operations (such as directly pulling out disks) in TOS 6. If you confirm they are no longer in use, you can delete them directly.
Important Notes: 1. The Beta version is an early testing release and may contain defects. It is not suitable for production environments or storing critical data. Do not use it for official business operations. 2. The update is designed to preserve data on hard drives. However, as a precaution, it is essential to back up all important data before proceeding. 3. If your shared folders were generated by Snapshot, their permissions will need to be reconfigured after the update. 4. After updating, all existing share links, desktop notifications, recent access history, application logs, system logs, and scheduled SMART test plans will be cleared. 5. Following the update, the Resource Dashboard, navigation bar icons, and Debug mode will revert to their default states. 6. The newly added cloud drive mounting features for Alibaba Cloud Drive and S3 protocol in File Manage are not yet complete and are temporarily unavailable. 7. Due to security protocol changes, some applications will require updates or reconfiguration after the update. Community applications may need to be re-downloaded and reinstalled. 8. If you have previously modified the BIOS boot order, please adjust it before updating to ensure the TOS system drive has priority over other boot devices (such as USB drives). Failure to do so may cause the system to boot into the installation interface after the update. 9. System configurations from TOS 6 cannot be directly restored to TOS 7. A new configuration backup will need to be created after the update. 10. Before updating, please ensure your main volume (typically volume1) has at least 3 GB of free space. Insufficient space may cause the update to fail. 11. After updating, the device’s IP address may change. Please use the TNAS PC client to search for and reconnect to your device.
How to Update to TOS 7? Manual Update: 1. Download the update package: TOS 7 (md5: 3287e60464d2e1dd0fceb04b570fe1cf) 2. Go to TOS > Control Panel > General Settings > System. 3. Under “Manual Update”, upload the update package. 4. Click “Apply”. 5. Once the system update is complete, you will need to refresh your browser. 6. After the update, your TNAS IP address may change. If you cannot connect to your TNAS using the previous IP address, please use the TNAS PC client to search for the new IP address.
Bug Report We sincerely thank you for taking the time to help us with testing! Every bug discovered is an important step toward the official release. As the Beta version is an early-stage build of the program and may contain defects, please refrain from sharing Beta-related bugs publicly to avoid unnecessary confusion for others. If you need to report a bug, please send a description of the issue, steps to reproduce it, and screenshots to the designated email address: [email protected].
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The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – The New $500+ NAS Standard?
The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus represents a significant step forward in the brand’s 4-bay NAS lineup, targeting users who demand capable hardware and broad feature support at a mid-range price point. Retailing at $569.99, or $484.99 during its introductory discount, it is positioned to compete directly with systems like the Synology DS925+ and QNAP TS-464, both of which occupy similar price and hardware tiers. TerraMaster’s intention with this model is to deliver a “jack of all trades” device that suits both home multimedia environments and small business offices. Internally, it uses Intel’s quad-core N150 processor, part of the newer Twin Lake architecture, with a base clock of 1 GHz and a turbo frequency up to 3.6 GHz. This CPU is paired with 16GB of DDR5 memory, offering a notable upgrade in bandwidth and responsiveness compared to previous DDR4-based TerraMaster models.
Complementing that performance core are three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots and four SATA drive bays, supporting a combined raw capacity of up to 144TB when fully populated. This configuration allows the device to accommodate both large-scale HDD storage for bulk data and high-speed SSD arrays for caching or dedicated performance pools. Dual 5GbE network ports on the rear enable theoretical aggregate transfer speeds exceeding 1,000 MB/s, aligning with the system’s positioning as a performance-focused yet affordable NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system comes preinstalled, providing modernized storage management, AI-based photo organization, and security tools like HyperLock WORM protection and isolation mode. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus arrives as one of the most fully featured mid-tier NAS options available in 2025, combining strong hardware, software maturity, and quiet, power-efficient design suited to both personal and professional use cases.
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion
The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus delivers one of the most complete mid-tier NAS packages currently available, balancing strong hardware, efficient design, and flexible software at a highly competitive price. Its Intel N150 processor, 16GB of DDR5 memory, and dual 5GbE ports provide ample speed for data-heavy workloads, while three M.2 NVMe slots add rare versatility for caching or SSD-based pools. The all-metal enclosure maintains low temperatures and quiet operation, and the TOS 6 operating system has matured into a capable platform with snapshot protection, Docker, virtualization, and AI photo management. Although it lacks premium details such as drive locks and redundant fans, and the interface remains less refined than Synology DSM or QNAP QTS, the F4-425 Plus stands out as a practical and forward-looking NAS. It bridges affordability and professional capability, making it suitable for home users, content creators, and small offices that need reliable, fast, and adaptable network storage.
SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 10/10
8.6
PROS
• Dual 5GbE network ports with full independent bandwidth for high-speed transfers + lots of USB-to-5GbE $30 upgrades in the market now • Three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots supporting cache or storage pool configurations • Intel N150 processor with integrated graphics enabling 4K hardware decoding and AES-NI encryption • 16GB DDR5 memory (expandable to 32GB) offering improved bandwidth and multitasking performance • Full-metal chassis with efficient thermals, low noise levels, and minimal vibration • Comprehensive RAID and storage management through TOS 6 with snapshot and HyperLock-WORM protection • Supports Docker, virtual machines, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin natively within TOS 6 • Competitive pricing with strong value relative to Synology and QNAP alternatives
CONS
• Cheaper N150 NAS Systems have arrived earlier in 2025 • 5GbE adoption is low, so only larger 10GbE ready groups (via auto-negotiation) will enjoy the benefits of 5GbE • TOS 6 interface and app ecosystem remain less polished than top-tier NAS platforms
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Design & Storage
The exterior design of the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus maintains the brand’s familiar compact metal chassis but introduces small refinements that improve both usability and thermals. Measuring 150 by 181 by 219 millimeters and weighing just under 3 kilograms, it fits comfortably into a home office or studio setup without generating significant heat or noise. The enclosure is almost entirely metal, with a brushed silver finish that enhances rigidity and passive cooling compared with earlier plastic-faced designs. Four individual drive trays occupy the front panel, each featuring a simple click-and-load mechanism for 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch drives. Although there are no locking latches or LCD displays, the trays are tool-free and straightforward to handle. A single 120mm fan at the rear provides adjustable cooling across smart, low, and high-speed profiles, maintaining an operational noise level as low as 20.9 dB(A) when idle with drives installed, according to TerraMaster’s own test figures.
From a structural perspective, the F4-425 Plus has clearly benefited from improved thermal management. The metal shell acts as a heat spreader, with typical external temperatures ranging from 25 to 27°C across the enclosure after extended operation, even under multi-day workload testing. Internal drive bays were observed to maintain around 27 to 29°C, while the rear ports and fan area registered between 36 and 38°C during prolonged use. These figures indicate an efficient heat dissipation design, aided by the more conductive chassis material and smart fan calibration. For users concerned with energy efficiency, the power draw remains modest thanks to the Intel N150 processor’s low TDP, allowing the system to idle at roughly 13 watts with SSDs installed and scale to around 60 watts under sustained load with four enterprise-class HDDs spinning.
In terms of drive configuration, the NAS supports up to four SATA 6Gb/s drives and three M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs. This combination provides a theoretical maximum raw capacity of 144TB, assuming four 30TB HDDs and three 8TB SSDs. The inclusion of three NVMe slots rather than the more typical one or two is a notable strength. Each operates on a PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, delivering real-world throughput of approximately 800 to 900 MB/s per SSD, suitable for caching or storage pools. This setup makes it possible to allocate two drives for cache acceleration while dedicating the third to an independent SSD-based pool for high-speed operations like video editing or database hosting. Such flexibility is rare at this price point and broadens the system’s appeal to users with both large data sets and high-performance requirements.
Storage management is handled through TOS 6, TerraMaster’s web-based operating system, which supports a wide range of RAID configurations including TRAID, TRAID+, JBOD, and traditional RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. TOS 6 also enables SSD caching, snapshots, and HyperLock write-once-read-many functionality for data integrity. Users can assign storage pools to specific workloads, such as separating SSD-based scratch space from HDD archival volumes. Combined with the new graphical interface and more detailed health monitoring tools, it provides a much more transparent overview of drive temperatures, utilization, and S.M.A.R.T. status. For additional flexibility, the system supports online RAID migration and expansion, meaning users can start small and scale capacity over time without data loss.
Beyond local storage, the device integrates directly with TerraMaster’s CloudSync service, which connects to providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and Baidu Cloud. Hybrid storage configurations allow partial replication or tiered backup between the NAS and the cloud, offering an extra level of redundancy for professional workflows. External connectivity through USB 3.2 ports also supports direct backups to DAS enclosures or portable drives. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus’s design emphasizes efficient cooling, solid construction, and versatile storage architecture, making it a flexible foundation for both data-heavy projects and long-term digital archiving.
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Internal Hardware
Internally, the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus is structured around Intel’s N150 processor, a 4-core, 4-thread CPU from the Twin Lake generation. Built on a 6W TDP architecture, this chip delivers a significant efficiency advantage over the previous N5095-based systems while offering a higher burst clock of up to 3.6 GHz. The CPU integrates Intel UHD Graphics, allowing 4K hardware decoding for H.264, H.265, VC-1, and MPEG-4, which is particularly beneficial for Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin users who want native transcoding without GPU add-ons.
This combination makes the system viable not only as a file server but also as a local multimedia hub, capable of decoding and streaming 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. Despite being a low-power chip, its instruction set includes AES-NI hardware encryption, ensuring efficient data security without notable throughput loss when encryption is enabled.
The system’s memory architecture uses a single DDR5 SO-DIMM slot, populated with a 16GB non-ECC module by default and expandable up to 32GB. The adoption of DDR5 over DDR4 marks a generational improvement in bandwidth and latency, leading to faster multitasking, smoother virtualization performance, and reduced overhead when handling multiple users or services. The memory module is non-ECC but benefits from on-die error correction at the hardware level, offering stability improvements over standard DDR4 implementations. This approach aligns with the unit’s target demographic of small offices, creators, and advanced home users who want server-grade responsiveness without enterprise complexity.
Storage connectivity within the system is distributed between four SATA III 6Gb/s interfaces managed by an ASMedia controller and three PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes dedicated to M.2 NVMe SSDs. This configuration ensures balanced throughput for simultaneous HDD and SSD activity. Internally, the layout is straightforward, providing easy access to both the memory slot and M.2 bays via the removable top panel. The power supply is a single 90W external brick, keeping internal temperatures lower and simplifying maintenance.
Together, the hardware configuration represents a thoughtful balance between efficiency, expandability, and performance, aimed at users who need consistent data access, multimedia capabilities, and reliable long-term operation without excess noise or heat.
Component
Details
Processor
Intel N150 Quad-Core (1.0 GHz base, up to 3.6 GHz burst)
Architecture
x86 64-bit, Intel Twin Lake
Hardware Encryption
AES-NI engine
Hardware Transcoding
H.264, H.265, VC-1, MPEG-4 up to 4K 60 FPS
Memory
16 GB DDR5 non-ECC SO-DIMM (1x16GB preinstalled)
Max Memory
32 GB DDR5
Drive Bays
4 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA 6Gb/s
NVMe Slots
3 x M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x1
Max Storage
120 TB (HDDs) + 24 TB (SSDs) = up to 144 TB combined
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Ports and Connections
The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus offers a broad range of connectivity designed to meet both high-speed networking and general expansion needs. On the rear panel, two 5GbE RJ-45 network ports serve as the central performance feature. These are among the first dual 5GbE implementations in a mid-tier NAS, and each port operates through its own dedicated PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, avoiding bandwidth contention. In testing, each port achieved full theoretical throughput, confirming proper lane allocation. Users can enable link aggregation or SMB multichannel for multi-user workloads, although saturating both ports simultaneously requires fast SSD or hybrid storage configurations. These ports support IPv4/IPv6, VLAN tagging, link aggregation, and Wake-on-LAN, making the system suitable for both small office environments and direct workstation connections.
Complementing the network interfaces, the F4-425 Plus includes four USB 3.2 ports: three Type-A and one Type-C, all operating at 10Gbps. These ports can handle external DAS enclosures, UPS devices, or high-capacity backup drives. The inclusion of a front-mounted USB port improves convenience for ad hoc backups or quick file transfers, addressing a long-standing omission in earlier TerraMaster models. Additionally, an HDMI 2.1 output is positioned on the rear, though its practical use remains limited within TOS, which lacks a native display interface. It may, however, prove useful for third-party operating systems such as Unraid or TrueNAS, where direct console access or local media playback is desired.
Overall, the port layout is clean and efficient, optimized for straightforward cable management. The system’s single large fan sits adjacent to the networking array, allowing for effective airflow without excessive cable obstruction. Power is supplied through a standard barrel connector linked to an external 90W adapter, which helps reduce internal heat buildup. Though it lacks built-in 10GbE or PCIe expansion, the dual 5GbE setup provides more than enough bandwidth for its class, especially when paired with NVMe caching. Users can also connect the NAS to TerraMaster’s USB-based DAS units for storage expansion or off-site replication, offering flexibility without compromising portability or noise levels.
Connection Type
Quantity / Type
Details
Network Ports
2 × 5GbE RJ-45
Independent PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes, Link Aggregation and SMB Multichannel supported
USB Ports
3 × USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 × USB 3.2 Type-C
10Gbps transfer rate, supports external DAS, UPS, and peripheral devices
HDMI Output
1 × HDMI 2.1
Up to 4K 60Hz, limited TOS functionality, usable under third-party OS
Power Input
1 × DC-in (90W adapter)
External PSU to minimize chassis heat
Cooling
1 × 120mm Smart Fan
Adjustable speed profiles, rear-mounted
Expansion Options
USB DAS expansion
Supports TerraMaster DAS units for external scaling
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Tests, Noise, Heat and Power Consumption
Performance testing on the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus showed that the system comfortably meets its advertised speed class, particularly when networked over a single 5GbE connection. Using four Toshiba MG-series 7200 RPM enterprise hard drives configured in RAID 5, the system achieved full saturation of one 5GbE port during both AJA and ATTO benchmark tests, reaching consistent read and write speeds around 500 to 520 MB/s. When tested with mixed media files totaling 50.5 GB, it completed the transfer in approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds, equating to an average throughput of about 224 MB/s.
This is a strong result for a mechanical-drive setup, reflecting efficient caching and balanced SATA bandwidth. SMB Multichannel and link aggregation are supported, though the CPU’s available PCIe lanes limit simultaneous dual-port saturation. Even so, the system handles multiple concurrent transfers and backups without a noticeable decline in throughput.
Testing with NVMe SSDs improved overall responsiveness considerably. The three M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots each sustained sequential transfer rates between 800 and 900 MB/s, allowing the NAS to maintain a high level of random IOPS for metadata-heavy workloads. When used as cache devices, these drives accelerated small-file transfers and application access times, especially when paired with the system’s 16GB of DDR5 memory.
TerraMaster’s TOS 6 supports flexible use of these drives, enabling independent storage pools or hybrid cache layers, depending on the task. In sustained transfers over SMB and iSCSI, the system achieved write speeds close to 950 MB/s and reads near 1020 MB/s when using SSD-based arrays, validating the advantage of dual 5GbE interfaces for all-flash or mixed-tier environments.
Power consumption during operation remained modest, aligning with the platform’s efficient design. With no hard drives installed and three SSDs active, idle draw measured around 13.3 watts. Adding four 7200 RPM HDDs increased idle power to 55 watts and full-load consumption to roughly 61–63 watts under concurrent read/write activity. These figures indicate a well-balanced design that prioritizes power efficiency without restricting performance. Fan speed settings affect both thermals and acoustics predictably: in low-speed mode, the NAS operated near 33 dB(A), while mid and high-speed profiles raised that figure to 37 and 39 dB(A) respectively. During heavy disk operations, readings peaked briefly at around 43 dB(A), which is reasonable given the metal chassis and high-RPM drives used in testing.
Thermal results further underscored the system’s stability. Surface readings from the aluminum body remained between 25°C and 27°C on average, while drive bays hovered at 28–30°C after extended workload sessions. The rear fan exhaust area reached approximately 36–38°C under sustained load. The efficient heat dispersion of the chassis prevented thermal throttling during prolonged transfers or virtualization testing, even with all seven storage devices active. This consistent temperature range indicates that TerraMaster’s choice of single-fan cooling and full-metal housing achieves a practical balance between noise, airflow, and longevity.
Test Condition
Configuration
Observed Results
Network Throughput (HDD RAID 5)
4 × Toshiba MG08 7200RPM HDDs
~500–520 MB/s read/write (single 5GbE port)
File Transfer Test
50.5 GB mixed media
3m 45s total, 224 MB/s average
SSD Performance
3 × NVMe Gen3 x1
800–900 MB/s per slot, ~1020 MB/s combined read
Power Consumption (Idle)
3 × SSD, no HDD
13.3 W
Power Consumption (Active)
4 × HDD, CPU ~80%
61–63 W
Noise Levels
Low–High Fan Speeds
33–43 dB(A)
Temperature Range
3-day uptime, mixed load
25°C–38°C overall system temperature
The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion
The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus demonstrates how far the company’s mid-range NAS lineup has progressed in terms of hardware refinement and real-world usability. By combining Intel’s efficient N150 processor with 16GB of DDR5 memory, dual 5GbE connectivity, and triple M.2 NVMe slots, it provides a specification normally reserved for higher-priced units. The build quality, centered around a full-metal chassis and quiet cooling design, contributes to consistent thermals and low power usage even under multi-day workloads. While the design omits premium touches like drive locks or redundant fans, the emphasis on practicality and efficient cooling makes it a dependable solution for continuous operation. From a user experience perspective, the integration of TOS 6 represents TerraMaster’s most stable and capable operating system to date, offering improved security features, cloud synchronization tools, snapshot management, and flexible storage configurations that appeal to both home and small office users.
From a value standpoint, the F4-425 Plus stands out as one of the most competitively priced NAS units in its category. At $569.99, or $484.99 during the initial discount period, it delivers strong network and storage performance that aligns closely with rivals from Synology and QNAP while retaining open installation flexibility for third-party platforms such as Unraid or TrueNAS. Its combination of high-speed connectivity, compact design, and mature software environment makes it an appealing option for anyone seeking a 4-bay system capable of multitasking across media streaming, data backup, and light virtualization. Although it cannot fully match the polish of Synology DSM or the plugin ecosystem of QNAP QTS, TerraMaster has successfully positioned this device as a bridge between affordability and professional performance, solidifying its place as one of the more balanced NAS releases of 2025.
• Dual 5GbE network ports with full independent bandwidth for high-speed transfers + lots of USB-to-5GbE $30 upgrades in the market now • Three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots supporting cache or storage pool configurations • Intel N150 processor with integrated graphics enabling 4K hardware decoding and AES-NI encryption • 16GB DDR5 memory (expandable to 32GB) offering improved bandwidth and multitasking performance • Full-metal chassis with efficient thermals, low noise levels, and minimal vibration • Comprehensive RAID and storage management through TOS 6 with snapshot and HyperLock-WORM protection • Supports Docker, virtual machines, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin natively within TOS 6 • Competitive pricing with strong value relative to Synology and QNAP alternatives
• Cheaper N150 NAS Systems have arrived earlier in 2025 • 5GbE adoption is low, so only larger 10GbE ready groups (via auto-negotiation) will enjoy the benefits of 5GbE • TOS 6 interface and app ecosystem remain less polished than top-tier NAS platforms
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
If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service checkHEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check FiverHave you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here
Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US
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.
Terramaster F4-425 PLUS (and F2-425 PLUS) NAS Coming Soon
The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS (8 GB, priced around US$399) and F4-425 PLUS (16 GB, priced around US$569) represent Terramaster’s latest step forward in its midrange NAS portfolio, arriving near the end of 2025 as a response to the growing competition from brands such as QNAP, Synology, UGREEN, and Asustor. Both models share the same Intel N150 quad-core processor running up to 3.6 GHz, use DDR5 memory, and include multiple M.2 NVMe slots, positioning them well above Terramaster’s previous generation of Celeron-based systems. The F4-425 PLUS is a four-bay platform that expands on the two-bay F2-425 PLUS by offering higher throughput and significantly greater storage flexibility, making it suitable for heavier workloads and multi-user environments. Terramaster appears to have used this release to redefine what can be expected in the $400–$600 NAS tier, especially by including dual 5 GbE network ports, three NVMe SSD slots, and native hardware transcoding for 4K and even 8K content through integrated Intel UHD graphics. Together these systems aim to deliver competitive all-in-one solutions for home and small-office users who require reliable local backup, multimedia streaming, and virtualization support without moving into enterprise-grade pricing.
Note – The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS and F2-425 PLUS NAS have now been launched, and are available to buy HERE for $569 and HERE for $399 (with 15% off as an introductory price till November 21st)
Terramaster F4-425 PLUS & F2-425 PLUS NAS Hardware Specifications
Terramaster’s F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS NAS units share a unified hardware architecture centered on Intel’s N150 processor, part of the Twin Lake family. This 4-core, 4-thread CPU operates at a base clock of 1.0 GHz and boosts up to 3.6 GHz, with integrated Intel UHD graphics that support hardware acceleration for 4K and 8K video decoding. While the N150 is not a high-power processor by desktop standards, it provides excellent balance between performance and efficiency for NAS workloads such as Plex or Jellyfin media streaming, file indexing, and lightweight virtualization. The use of this chip also aligns Terramaster’s lineup with newer offerings from competitors who have adopted similar architectures in their 2025 models.
The memory configuration has moved to DDR5, marking a notable generational shift from the DDR4 modules used in previous Terramaster systems. The F2-425 PLUS includes 8 GB of DDR5, while the F4-425 PLUS doubles this to 16 GB, both expandable up to 32 GB. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth and reduced latency, which benefits multitasking environments, particularly when running Docker containers, multiple user sessions, or AI-driven indexing services such as local photo recognition. This upgrade positions the new PLUS series closer to the performance levels found in more expensive NAS systems while maintaining efficient power draw and thermal output. In terms of storage capacity, the F4-425 PLUS can house up to four 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, while the smaller F2-425 PLUS accommodates two. Both models also integrate three M.2 NVMe slots, allowing up to 8 TB per SSD and enabling users to reach a maximum combined capacity of approximately 144 TB in the four-bay model. Terramaster’s hybrid storage design allows these NVMe drives to serve either as a dedicated storage pool or as cache acceleration for HDD volumes, giving users flexibility to prioritize capacity or performance. The inclusion of three M.2 slots is unusual at this price tier and stands out against most two- and four-bay competitors, which typically provide only two.
For network connectivity, Terramaster has equipped both models with dual 5 GbE ports. This configuration effectively doubles the throughput available in the previous 2.5 GbE generation and can deliver an aggregated bandwidth of up to 10 Gbps through link aggregation. Although the lack of a dedicated 10 GbE port might limit direct single-link transfers, the two 5 GbE ports provide redundancy, failover, and multi-user performance advantages. Both models also include a front-mounted USB-C port and rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A connectors for high-speed external backups and peripheral connections, reflecting a refinement in Terramaster’s chassis design compared with earlier models that relied solely on rear ports.
Cooling and chassis design remain consistent with Terramaster’s recent metal-based enclosures, using active fan ventilation with independent drive bay access. The F4-425 PLUS features dual rear fans to maintain airflow across four bays, while the F2-425 PLUS employs a single high-efficiency unit. The new layout provides improved front-to-rear ventilation and easier access to drive trays. Internally, the systems do not include a PCIe expansion slot, which limits the potential for GPU or high-speed NIC upgrades but simplifies internal lane allocation for the CPU’s nine available PCIe lanes. Terramaster appears to have distributed these lanes between the three M.2 interfaces and dual network controllers to maintain balanced throughput across all functions.
Specification
F2-425 PLUS
F4-425 PLUS
Processor
Intel N150 Quad-Core (up to 3.6 GHz)
Intel N150 Quad-Core (up to 3.6 GHz)
Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics (4K/8K decoding)
Intel UHD Graphics (4K/8K decoding)
Memory
8 GB DDR5 (expandable to 32 GB)
16 GB DDR5 (expandable to 32 GB)
Drive Bays
2 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA + 3 x M.2 NVMe
4 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA + 3 x M.2 NVMe
Maximum Capacity
Up to 88 TB (2 x 30 TB HDD + 3 x 8 TB NVMe)
Up to 144 TB (4 x 30 TB HDD + 3 x 8 TB NVMe)
Network Ports
2 x 5 GbE (Link Aggregation Supported)
2 x 5 GbE (Link Aggregation Supported)
USB Ports
1 x USB-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
1 x USB-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
Operating System
TOS 6.0
TOS 6.0
Cooling
1 x Smart Fan
2 x Smart Fans
Power Consumption
~20 W (Idle)
~35 W (Idle)
Price (Approx.)
US$399
US$569
How the F4-425 PLUS Compares with QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS425+
The QNAP TS-464 is built around the Intel Celeron N5095, a 4-core, 4-thread processor that can boost up to 2.9 GHz, and ships with 8 GB of DDR4 memory. It supports four SATA bays plus M.2 expansion and includes dual 2.5 GbE ports that can be aggregated for improved bandwidth. QNAP’s system benefits from a mature software ecosystem, offering HDMI output, virtualization support, and extensive backup tools. In performance testing, it delivers sequential speeds around 560 MB/s under RAID 5, limited mainly by network bandwidth. Compared with the F4-425 PLUS, the TS-464 offers stronger software flexibility and PCIe expandability, but its networking hardware is slower and it relies on older memory standards.
The Synology DS425+ takes a more conservative hardware route, using the Intel Celeron J4125 with four cores running at 2.0 GHz base and 2.7 GHz burst. It includes 2 GB of DDR4 memory, expandable to 6 GB, and offers one 2.5 GbE port alongside a 1 GbE port. Two M.2 NVMe slots are available but only for cache acceleration, not full storage pools. Sequential throughput typically reaches about 280 MB/s for reads and writes. Against the F4-425 PLUS, Synology’s system trails in memory, raw processing speed, and throughput potential, but maintains an advantage in software polish and long-term reliability through DSM integration.
In side-by-side terms, the F4-425 PLUS aims for a higher performance envelope. Its dual 5 GbE ports deliver aggregate throughput potential far beyond both the QNAP and Synology options, and its DDR5 memory with three M.2 NVMe slots allows flexible caching or tiered storage setups uncommon at this price tier. The trade-off lies in expandability and software maturity, where QNAP’s platform remains more modular and Synology’s DSM ecosystem offers more stability. For users focused on performance-per-dollar, the F4-425 PLUS introduces hardware that surpasses both competitors on paper, though long-term evaluation will depend on software development under TOS 6.
Feature
F4-425 PLUS
QNAP TS-464
Synology DS425+
CPU
Intel N150 (4 cores, up to 3.6 GHz)
Intel Celeron N5095 (4 cores, up to 2.9 GHz)
Intel Celeron J4125 (4 cores, up to 2.7 GHz)
Memory
16 GB DDR5 (expandable to 32 GB)
8 GB DDR4 (expandable)
2 GB DDR4 (expandable to 6 GB)
Drive Bays + NVMe
4 SATA + 3 M.2 NVMe
4 SATA + 2 M.2 NVMe (plus PCIe slot)
4 SATA + 2 M.2 NVMe (cache only)
Network
2 × 5 GbE
2 × 2.5 GbE
1 × 2.5 GbE + 1 × 1 GbE
Throughput
Up to 1,010 MB/s
Up to 560 MB/s
Up to 280 MB/s
Expansion / PCIe
No PCIe slot
PCIe slot for add-on cards
No PCIe slot
Ecosystem Strength
TOS 6, expanding app support
Mature QNAP QTS ecosystem
Mature DSM ecosystem
Terramaster TOS 6 Software
The F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS both ship with TOS 6, Terramaster’s latest operating system that replaces the earlier TOS 5 platform across its new generation of NAS hardware. TOS 6 introduces a redesigned interface with improved responsiveness and a more modular layout intended to reduce latency during multitasking.
It expands Terramaster’s range of built-in applications to include enhanced TRAID and TRAID+ hybrid array configurations, snapshot scheduling, and real-time data synchronization features. Backup utilities such as Duple Backup, Centralized Backup, TerraSync, and CloudSync provide integration across local drives, offsite NAS devices, and major cloud providers. The system also integrates hardware-assisted AES-NI encryption, supporting secure data transmission over 256-bit TLS and optional two-factor authentication. Although its design remains more lightweight than QNAP’s QTS or Synology’s DSM, it is notably faster to load and more accessible to new users.
Beyond core management tools, TOS 6 also incorporates AI-assisted photo management and multimedia indexing designed to run locally rather than relying on external cloud resources. Its facial, object, and scene recognition algorithms operate entirely on the NAS, avoiding external data transfers while maintaining privacy for personal collections. The OS additionally supports Docker and VirtualBox, enabling light virtualization tasks or deployment of third-party services without command-line setup.
Multimedia servers such as Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin can use Intel’s integrated graphics for hardware decoding, improving playback efficiency in 4K and 8K environments. While TOS 6 still trails mature ecosystems in app diversity, it delivers steady progress toward matching more established competitors, particularly for backup, synchronization, and AI-driven photo organization.
Verdict? The New4-Bay NAS Score to Beat?
The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS introduce a considerable upgrade to the company’s mid-tier NAS range, setting new expectations for what users can expect at the $400–$600 level. Both models adopt the Intel N150 processor, DDR5 memory, and dual 5 GbE networking, bringing performance that previously required higher-priced hardware. The F4-425 PLUS, in particular, combines four SATA bays with three M.2 NVMe slots, creating one of the most storage-flexible designs in its category. This configuration makes it a practical option for users who require hybrid pools or tiered caching but prefer to remain within consumer-level power and cost limits. Terramaster’s decision to include high-speed networking and DDR5 support at this price point demonstrates an emphasis on raw throughput and bandwidth efficiency, although it comes at the expense of PCIe expandability. From a broader market perspective, the F4-425 PLUS positions Terramaster competitively against alternatives from QNAP and Synology, trading ecosystem maturity for stronger base hardware. TOS 6 continues to evolve, offering usable AI-based media tools, secure backup systems, and local synchronization features. The platform still lacks some advanced management functions and third-party integrations seen in more established ecosystems, yet it now provides sufficient stability and depth for both professional and enthusiast users. Overall, the F4-425 PLUS presents an incremental but strategically significant advancement in Terramaster’s NAS design philosophy, marking a shift toward higher efficiency and versatility within its compact, consumer-oriented systems.
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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.
Why are NAS Systems not 10GbE as Standard Right Now?
It is 2025, yet the majority of NAS systems on the market continue to ship with 1GbE or, at best, 2.5GbE networking, leaving many users questioning why 10GbE has not become a standard feature. Over the past decade, the cost of 10GbE networking equipment, including switches, NICs, and adapters, has steadily declined, and the technology has long since moved from being an enterprise-only option into mainstream availability. Home labs, creative professionals, and small businesses are increasingly working with 4K and 8K media, large VM environments, and multi-terabyte datasets, all of which can easily saturate a 1GbE or even 2.5GbE connection. Despite this shift, when browsing the portfolios of Synology, QNAP, Asustor, TerraMaster, or even newer DIY-friendly NAS brands, the entry-level and mid-tier systems remain locked at bandwidth speeds that are already dwarfed by modern SSD arrays and multi-bay RAID configurations.
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This gap between user expectations and manufacturer offerings has become more striking as affordable consumer motherboards and even some mini-PCs now integrate 5GbE or 10GbE as standard. By contrast, NAS vendors still tend to position 10GbE as a high-end add-on or restrict it to flagship models, often requiring costly proprietary NIC upgrades. For the average buyer, this creates the perception that NAS devices are lagging behind broader networking trends and are artificially constrained to maintain price tiers. The reality is more complex. The question of why 10GbE has not become universal in NAS hardware cannot be answered solely by pointing to falling market prices of controllers and switches. Instead, the explanation lies in a mix of economics, hardware design limitations, CPU lane allocations, and the fact that networking itself is evolving beyond 10GbE into alternatives like 25GbE and USB4. All of these factors together show why the integration of 10GbE into NAS devices remains more complicated than it may first appear.
Discussing the Issue / Barriers to Manufacturers
One of the most persistent barriers to universal 10GbE adoption in NAS systems is the economic reality of how these devices are positioned. Vendors like Synology, QNAP, and Asustor operate in a layered product ecosystem, where each tier is designed to push customers toward more expensive models. Entry-level devices often compete on affordability rather than raw performance, meaning that features like 10GbE are deliberately held back to differentiate mid-range and enterprise systems. The actual bill of materials (BOM) cost for including 10GbE hardware is lower than it was five years ago, but manufacturers still view it as a premium feature that justifies higher price points. By holding 10GbE in reserve for upper tiers, vendors protect their margins, avoid cannibalising sales of more profitable models, and keep upgrade paths clear for customers as their needs grow. This is not simply technical gatekeeping but a conscious market segmentation strategy.
A second, more technical challenge comes from CPU and chipset design. The processors used in affordable NAS devices are almost always low-power embedded models—Intel Celeron, Atom, or entry-level AMD Ryzen Embedded chips—which provide only a limited number of PCIe lanes. These lanes must be distributed across storage controllers, NVMe slots, expansion slots, and network interfaces. Introducing 10GbE requires not only dedicating at least two, and often four, PCIe lanes, but also ensuring that the CPU can handle the higher throughput without becoming the bottleneck. If a vendor reallocates lanes to add 10GbE, they may have to reduce the number of NVMe slots, cut down on SATA ports, or compromise expansion card bandwidth. For many manufacturers, it is simpler to leave 10GbE out of the base design than to risk producing a system that looks good on paper but struggles to deliver in practice.
Beyond lane allocation, there is also the issue of power, thermals, and board layout. 10GbE controllers typically draw more power and generate more heat than 1GbE or 2.5GbE chips. In compact NAS enclosures designed for low-noise operation, this can force more aggressive cooling solutions or tighter thermal management. For brands already working within strict acoustic and energy efficiency limits, especially in home or small office NAS devices, the integration of 10GbE becomes a balancing act between speed and stability. Higher thermal load can also reduce the overall lifespan of components or require larger enclosures, both of which erode the appeal of entry-level systems where buyers expect compact and efficient designs.
Another factor that discourages widespread 10GbE adoption is ecosystem alignment. NAS vendors are keenly aware that a large percentage of their target audience does not yet operate in 10GbE-ready environments. Even though 10GbE switches and NICs are more affordable in 2025, many households and small offices still rely on routers and switches with 1GbE or 2.5GbE uplinks. For these users, the inclusion of 10GbE would have little practical benefit, since the rest of the network infrastructure cannot support it. From the manufacturer’s perspective, bundling 10GbE into a device that will simply be throttled by the customer’s network backbone risks making the feature look pointless, or worse, “non-functional.” As such, 10GbE tends to be reserved for prosumer and enterprise segments, where it is more likely that users already have or are willing to invest in compatible infrastructure.
Finally, there is a subtle but important business factor at play: vendor ecosystems and upsell opportunities. Many NAS brands sell proprietary 10GbE upgrade cards or branded NICs, which can only be used with their systems. By omitting onboard 10GbE but providing expansion slots, vendors create an additional revenue stream while giving customers flexibility to upgrade later. This model also ensures that users who truly require 10GbE end up spending more within the brand’s ecosystem, while casual buyers stick to lower-cost systems that do not overdeliver. In this sense, the absence of 10GbE on affordable NAS units is not only about technical limitations, but also about preserving a staged upgrade model that aligns with each brand’s long-term revenue strategy.
The Solution – How Can 10GbE Be More Accessible?
The landscape for 10GbE networking hardware has improved significantly in the last few years, with controllers becoming cheaper, more efficient, and easier to integrate into consumer systems. Early 10GbE relied heavily on costly Intel or Mellanox chipsets designed primarily for enterprise servers, often priced in the hundreds of dollars per card. Today, vendors such as Realtek, Aquantia (now under Marvell), and Broadcom produce consumer-focused 10GbE controllers that are smaller, run cooler, and consume less power. These newer chipsets are also designed to integrate more smoothly with mainstream CPUs and motherboards, reducing the need for complex PCB layouts. The result has been a marked reduction in the cost of standalone NICs and USB-to-10GbE adapters, which now frequently sell for under $100, making them accessible even for home users experimenting with faster networking.
Even with this progress, manufacturers remain hesitant to make 10GbE a baseline feature across all NAS devices. Part of the reason lies in how modern NAS systems must juggle limited resources. As CPUs have shifted to PCIe Gen 4 and Gen 5, the available bandwidth has increased, but vendors are also using these lanes to expand NVMe storage pools, enable GPU acceleration, or add AI-focused co-processors for surveillance, indexing, or media analysis. In many cases, vendors see greater value in offering more M.2 slots, dual PCIe expansion options, or flexible NIC bays than in permanently dedicating space to 10GbE. This explains why hybrid designs are now common: devices shipping with 2.5GbE or 5GbE onboard, with a dedicated slot for an optional 10GbE card. Such configurations give users a faster-than-gigabit baseline, but also keep upgrade paths open for power users who truly need multi-gigabit networking.
The state of 10GbE is also being influenced by the rapid adoption of adjacent technologies. 2.5GbE has become the de facto standard in new consumer motherboards and mid-tier switches, offering a cheap and widely compatible upgrade path for everyday users who want more than 1GbE without changing their cabling. At the other end of the spectrum, higher-speed networking such as 25GbE or 40GbE is filtering down from data centres to advanced prosumer setups, while direct-connect solutions like Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 offer bandwidth well beyond 10GbE with less CPU overhead and simpler plug-and-play deployment. Software optimisation is also playing a role: modern NAS operating systems increasingly support IP over Thunderbolt or USB4, which provides a parallel path to multi-gigabit performance without the traditional reliance on Ethernet standards. As a result, 10GbE finds itself squeezed in the middle—too expensive to be a no-brainer at the entry level, but increasingly overshadowed by faster alternatives at the top end. It remains a critical sweet spot for small businesses and creative professionals, but its window of dominance is being challenged by the pace of networking innovation.
Verdict and Conclusion – Buy a 10GbE NAS Now or Wait?
The question of why 10GbE has not become a standard feature across NAS devices in 2025 does not have a single answer, but rather a convergence of factors. Manufacturers face technical challenges in CPU lane allocation, thermal management, and system design, while also making deliberate market choices to protect product segmentation and encourage upsell opportunities. At the same time, 10GbE sits in an awkward position within the networking landscape: cheaper and more efficient than ever, yet increasingly bypassed by the widespread adoption of 2.5GbE on the low end and the emergence of 25GbE, Thunderbolt, and USB4 on the high end. For now, this means that 10GbE remains reserved for higher-tier NAS systems where the hardware can genuinely sustain its throughput and where the user base is prepared to invest in compatible infrastructure. While prices will continue to fall and adoption will grow, it is unlikely that every NAS will adopt 10GbE as standard before other technologies begin to replace it as the next performance baseline.
5 affordable Turnkey 10GbE NAS Solutions (Between $499 and $699)
For years, 10GbE networking has been seen as a premium feature reserved for high-end or enterprise-grade NAS devices, often pushing total system costs well beyond the reach of home users and small businesses. However, as controller prices have dropped and demand for faster data transfers has grown, a new wave of affordable NAS solutions has started to appear with built-in 10GbE. These systems no longer require expensive proprietary upgrade cards or third-party NICs, and many sit comfortably below the $699 / £599 price point. They cover a range of use cases, from compact SSD-based NAS devices to rackmount storage appliances and versatile desktop units. Below is a selection of some of the most notable options currently available, each offering a balance of performance, connectivity, and affordability for users who want to move beyond 1GbE or 2.5GbE without breaking the bank.
UniFi UNAS Pro (7-Bay, Rackmount)
I keep coming back to two words for the UniFi UNAS Pro—fundamentals and consistency. UniFi has clearly focused on making this system a strong addition to their ecosystem, prioritizing the essential storage needs of a NAS. They’ve succeeded in this, but comparisons with long-established competitors are inevitable. While solid, reliable, and stable, the UniFi UNAS Pro will take time to be competitive on the software front. If you’re deeply invested in the UniFi ecosystem, you’ll appreciate its ease of use and integration. However, outside of a UniFi network, it may feel feature-light compared to alternatives. The pricing is competitive for a launch product at $499, and while it’s not the best NAS on the market, it’s the most user-friendly and UniFi-ready. It will likely satisfy many users’ needs. I can certainly see this being integrated into existing UniFi networks as a 2nd stage backup alongside their already existing 3rd party NAS solution, with the potential to graduating to their primary storage as Ubiquiti continue to evolve this platform above and beyond the fundamentals their have nailed down in the UNAS Pro system.
Specs: ARM Cortex-A57 quad-core CPU, 8 GB RAM, seven 2.5″/3.5″ SATA bays, 1×10GbE SFP+ and 1×1GbE.
Why It Stands Out: Exceptional price-to-performance for pure storage needs. Lacks advanced multimedia or container apps but ideal for high-speed backups in a rackmount setup.
BUILD QUALITY - 10/10
HARDWARE - 7/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 8/10
8.2
PROS
Nails down the fundamentals of NAS Storage very well Easy to use GUI and well suited in the UniFi Ecosystem/UX Complete Offline Use is supported Use of a UI account is NOT compulsory Excellently deployed Snapshot Features 10GbE out-the-box Open HDD Compatibility, but also 1st party options too Backup and Restoration Options Nailed down perfectly Very power efficient and CPU/, Memory utilization rarely high Compact, Quite and well designed chassis The LCD controls are completely \'different level\' compared to other brands in the market Promised competitive pricing FAST deployment (3-5mins tops) Reactive Storage expandability and easy-to-understand storage failover options Mobile app deployment is intuitive/fast Feels stable, secure and reliable at all times Performance is respectable (considering SATA Bay count and CPU) but also sustained performance is very good Single screen dashboard is clear and intuitive Ditto for the native file explorer
CONS
7 Bays is a bit unusual, plus feels like the existing UNVR with different firmware Additional App installation (eg. \'Protect\') not currently supported. So no container support for 3rd party apps Network Controls are limited Works at it\'s best in an existing UniFi managed network, feels a little limited in \'standalone\' Multiple storage pools not supported (nor is RAID 0) Lack of Scheduled On/Off Lack of redundant PSU Only 1 10Gb port and 1x 1GbE, no USBs for expanded storage or an expansion
Asustor Flashstor 12 Gen 1 (Compact NVMe NAS)
The Asustor Flashstor Gen 2 12-Bay NAS is a robust and versatile solution for users with demanding storage needs. Its combination of high-performance hardware, extensive connectivity options, and compact design makes it a standout choice for content creators, small businesses, and enthusiasts. With dual 10GbE ports, USB 4.0 connectivity, and support for up to 12 M.2 NVMe drives, it offers exceptional speed and scalability. While the device has a few quirks, such as its mixed PCIe slot speeds and lack of M.2 heat sinks, these are manageable with proper planning and aftermarket solutions. The Flashstor Gen 2 excels in raw performance, handling intensive workflows with ease and maintaining low noise levels even under load. Its power efficiency and robust thermal management further enhance its appeal for 24/7 operation. For users prioritizing hardware capabilities and performance, the Flashstor Gen 2 delivers on its promises. While its complexity may deter less experienced users, those with the technical expertise to configure and optimize the system will find it a valuable addition to their workflow.
Specs: Intel Celeron N5105, 12×M.2 NVMe slots, single 10GbE port, compact form factor.
Notable Traits: High-density SSD storage in a small desktop chassis. Excellent value for SSD-heavy builds.
SOFTWARE - 6/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 10/10
PRICE - 7/10
VALUE - 8/10
8.0
PROS
Exceptional Performance: Dual 10-Gigabit Ethernet ports and USB 4.0 connectivity deliver fast and reliable data transfer speeds, ideal for 4K editing and collaborative environments. Extensive Storage Options: Supports up to 12 M.2 NVMe SSDs, allowing for large-scale, high-speed storage arrays. ECC Memory Support: Includes 16GB of DDR5-4800 ECC memory (expandable to 64GB), ensuring data integrity for critical applications. Compact Design: Small footprint makes it perfect for workspaces with limited room. Quiet Operation: Dual-fan system keeps noise levels low, even under heavy loads. Flexible Connectivity: Features two USB 4.0 Type-C ports and three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for direct storage access and peripheral integration. Power Efficiency: Low power consumption (32.2W idle, 56W under load) makes it economical to run, even for 24/7 operation. Thermal Management Enhancements: Dual fans and copper heat pipes efficiently dissipate heat, ensuring stable performance. Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Compatible with platforms like TrueNAS and Unraid for advanced customization.
CONS
Mixed PCIe Slot Speeds: Inconsistent PCIe bandwidth across M.2 slots complicates unified RAID configurations. Lack of M.2 Heat Sinks: NVMe slots do not include heat sinks, requiring aftermarket cooling solutions for intensive workloads. No Integrated Graphics: The AMD Ryzen V3C14 processor lacks integrated graphics, limiting hardware transcoding and multimedia capabilities. Steep Price: The 12-bay model’s cost ($1,300–$1,400) and the six-bay version’s lack of ECC memory make them expensive compared to alternatives.
UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus
BOTTOM LINE – The UGREEN NASYnc DXP4800 Plus does not feel ‘finished’ yet and still needs more time in the over, but UGREEN have been very clear with me that this product is not intended for release and fulfilment till summer 2024 and improvements, optimization and product completion is still in progress. Judging the UGREEN NAS systems, when what we have is a pre-release and pre-crowdfunding sample, was always going to be tough. The DXP4800 PLUS is a very well put-together NAS solution, arriving with a fantastic launching price point (arguably even at its RRP for the hardware on offer). UGREEN has clearly made efforts here to carve out their own style, adding their own aesthetic to the traditional 4-bay server box design that plagues NAS boxes at this scale. Equally, although they are not the first brand to consider Kickstarter/Crowdfunding for launching a new product in the NAS/personal-cloud sector, this is easily one of the most confident entries I have seen yet. The fact that this system arrives on the market primarily as a crowdfunded solution (though almost certainly, if successful, will roll out at traditional retail) is definitely going to give users some pause for thought. Equally, the UGREEN NAS software, still in beta at the time of writing, although very responsive and nailing down the basics, still feels like it needs more work to compete with the bigger boys at Synology and QNAP. Hardware architecture, scalability, and performance are all pretty impressive, though the performance of the Gen 4×4 M.2 NVMe slots didn’t seem to hit the numbers I was expecting. Perhaps a question of PCIe bottlenecking internally, or a need for further tweaking and optimization as the system continues development. Bottom line, with expected software updates to roll out closer to launch and fulfillment, such as an expanded App center and mobile client, the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is definitely a device worth keeping an eye on in the growing Turnkey and semi-DIY NAS market. As an alternative to public cloud services, this is a no-brainer and worth the entry price point. As an alternative to established Turnkey NAS Solutions, we will hold off judgment till it is publicly released.
Specs: Intel Pentium Gold 8505 (6-thread), 8 GB DDR5, 4×SATA + 2×M.2 slots, 1×10GbE and 1×2.5GbE, plus HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, and SD reader.
Why It’s Attractive: Well-rounded design with rich connectivity and media support, undercuts most rivals on price and features.
SOFTWARE - 6/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 6/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 8/10
7.6
PROS
Exceptional Hardware for the Price 4 HDDs + 2x Gen 4x4 M.2 in 1 box under $400 Good Balanced CPU choice in the Pentium Gold 8505 10GbE and 2.5GbE as standard An SD Card Slot (wielrd 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
CONS
10GbE Performance was underwhelming Crowdfunding choice is confusing Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 22/3/24 non-UGREEN PSU is unexpected
TerraMaster F4-424 Max / F6-424 Max
The TerraMaster F4-424 Max is a robust 4-bay NAS system that offers a powerful mix of features and flexibility for a wide range of tasks. Powered by the Intel i5-1235U CPU with 10 cores and 12 threads, the F4-424 Max excels at resource-intensive applications such as Plex media streaming, 4K hardware transcoding, and virtual machine hosting. Its dual M.2 NVMe slots running at PCIe Gen 4 speeds significantly improve storage performance, especially when used for caching, while the two 10GbE ports offer high-speed networking environments, allowing for 20Gbps throughput via link aggregation.
In terms of software, TOS 6 brings notable improvements, although it still lags behind the more polished ecosystems of Synology DSM and QNAP QTS. That said, TerraMaster’s continuous software evolution with each new version of TOS ensures that users have access to more robust tools and security features. For its price point of $899.99, the F4-424 Max is a compelling option for those seeking high-performance NAS solutions with scalability in mind. While the Pro model offers competitive performance, the Max takes it a step further with advanced networking, making it ideal for environments where speed is a priority.
Specs: Intel Core i5-1235U (10-core), 8 GB RAM, dual 10GbE ports, dual M.2, with 4 or 6 SATA bays depending on model.
Why It Helps: The F4-424 Max frequently drops below the $800 mark in promotions, offering unusually strong CPU performance and dual 10GbE at a mid-range price point.
Where to Buy?
Terramaster F4-424 Max ($899 Amazon) – HERETerramaster F4-424 Max ($799 Aliexpress) – HERE
SOFTWARE - 6/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 9/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 8/10
8.2
PROS
Powerful Hardware: Intel i5-1235U with 10 cores and 12 threads for resource-heavy tasks. Dual 10GbE Ports: High-speed networking capabilities with link aggregation for up to 20Gbps, ideal for large file transfers. PCIe Gen 4 NVMe Support: Two M.2 NVMe slots offering exceptional performance for caching or additional high-speed storage. Efficient Cooling: The large 120mm fan ensures quiet and effective cooling, making it suitable for home and office environments. Improved TOS 6 Software: Enhancements in GUI, backup tools, and overall security bring TOS closer to its competitors.
CONS
Higher Price Tag: At $899.99, it’s more expensive than TerraMaster’s other models, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. No PCIe Expansion: Lack of a PCIe slot limits potential for future upgrades, such as adding 10GbE cards or more M.2 drives. Presentation: The software has improved a lot, but still feels inconsistent in places compared with alternatives from brands such as Synology and QNAP.
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