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The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard – Hardware Deep Dive Review

Par : Rob Andrews
15 mars 2024 à 15:00

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU Combo – Should You Buy It?

If you have come to this article on the Topton N305 NAS Motherboard, then chances are you are a very specific kind of NAS user! When you want to build your own NAS from scratch, there is always the balance between POWER and POWER EFFICIENCY! The former, means you can get so much more done, as quickly as possible – the latter is a pursuit to ensure that this 24×7 DiY NAS server is not going to cost you a small fortune in electricity costs! Until recently, the 2020/2021 released Topton N5105/N6005 NAS+Mobo combo was considered the best balance in the market to provide a fair balance of performance, capability and power efficiency. However, because Intel has moved forward with its refresh of their processors into the newer generation (largely killing off the Intel Celeron and Pentium naming) AND brands such as Topton have now vastly improved their development techniques, many MANY eyes have now moved over to the newer Topton Intel N305 and N100 NAS Motherboard. Most ‘Build Your Own’ (BYO) NAS buyers are considering this highly praised little M-ITX combo for their new Plex Build, their new modest Container/VM server with Proxmox, or scaling up from a private cloud to a 5-6 drive UnRAID or TrueNAS server! But, is the N305 NAS motherboard actually any good? What are the main differences to consider between the N305 and N100 model? And is it reliable enough for your data? In this article we dig into the hardware and share what we find!

Note – You can watch the Topton N305 full hardware review and dive HERE on YouTube

Additionally, find our lists of the recommended NAS CPU+Mobo Combos HERE on NASCompares in a dedicated article

Where to Buy

(Amazon / Aliexpress)

ALIEXPRESS $279 HERE (Upgrades Available)

Amazon $348 HERE (Board Only)

Component Specification
Processor Intel Alder Lake-N i3-N305
Memory 1x SO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz, up to 16/32GB
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 3×1 Slot, 2x SATA3
PCIe Slot PCIe 3×1 (cut)
Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Display Outputs 2x HDMI, 1x DP, 1x Type-C (all 4096 x 2160@60Hz)
Network Card 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G
4G LTE/SIM Yes
Wireless? MICROPCIe Slot (Shared with PCIe 3×1 Slot)
USB Ports 5x USB2.0, 1x USB3 via FPanel and Pins
Cooling Passive cooling with fanless heatsink
BIOS AMI EFI BIOS with various supports
TDP 9-15W
Power Input DC 12V (External PSU option)
Case Material Aluminium Alloy
Expansion PWM fan power connector, TPM Pin
Dimensions 158.0mm x 126.5mm x 60.2mm
Color Black or Gray (random)
Installation Desktop, Wall-mounted
Operating Environment 0°C to 70°C, 5%-85% Humidity

 


Topton N305 DiY NAS CPU+MoBo Combo – Hardware Design

The Topton N305 Board is offered on Aliexpress with various pricing options based on the included components. The basic package, which includes just the CPU and motherboard, is priced at $319. For an additional $10, customers can obtain the package with a SAS fan-out cable for enhanced storage capabilities, totalling $329. The most comprehensive option includes everything mentioned plus an external PSU, available for $359. This tiered pricing structure provides flexibility for buyers based on their specific needs and desired configurations.

The latest version of the Topton N305 ITX motherboard now includes a metal, high quality fan-assisted heatsink. This new feature aims to enhance cooling efficiency for the system. It’s a significant update for those looking for improved thermal management in their ITX setups.

The N305 CPU, a central component of Topton’s latest NAS and DiY switch motherboard, showcases Intel’s innovative engineering through its Alder Lake-N architecture, catering specifically to efficiency and performance. With its Intel 7 lithography, the processor strikes a balance between power consumption and computational prowess, offering a TDP of 9-15W. This optimization allows for reduced energy usage while maintaining high performance, making it an ideal choice for NAS systems where efficiency is paramount.

Embedded within the motherboard, the N305 CPU supports advanced memory capabilities, including DDR5, ensuring broad compatibility and future-proofing for evolving storage technologies. The processor’s ability to handle up to 16GB of memory alongside its versatile support for various memory speeds up to 4800 MHz underlines its capacity to manage intensive data transactions and storage operations. This flexibility is crucial for NAS applications, which demand rapid access to and processing of voluminous data sets.

Furthermore, the integration of Intel UHD Graphics within the CPU provides substantial support for multimedia tasks, extending the motherboard’s utility beyond mere storage. This feature, coupled with the processor’s support for multiple displays and high-definition outputs, enables the N305 NAS Motherboard to serve as a central hub for not only storage but also media streaming and light graphical tasks. The inclusion of advanced technologies like Intel Quick Sync Video highlights the CPU’s adeptness at encoding and decoding video streams efficiently, thereby enhancing the functionality of NAS systems built with the N305 motherboard for a variety of applications.

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard incorporates a single SO-DIMM slot for memory, strategically located on the motherboard’s rear, optimizing space and accessibility. This design choice underscores the board’s compact and efficient layout, catering to users seeking a balance between performance and form factor in their NAS solutions. However, it’s important to note that this system does not support ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory. The absence of ECC support is typical for systems prioritizing cost-effectiveness and simplicity over the error correction capabilities critical in enterprise-level servers. Despite this, the motherboard’s memory compatibility, supporting up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM at speeds of 4800MHz (and compatibility with 5200/5600MHz), ensures robust performance for various NAS applications.

At the top section of the Mini-ITX NAS motherboard, there are two distinct SATA connection ports available for direct drive connections. Additionally, it features an SFF-8643 output. This output enables the connection of four more SATA drives. The connectivity expansion is facilitated through a compatible cable.

The motherboard utilizes a JMB585 controller for enhanced SATA drive management, bridging the gap between PCIe hosts and SATA/AHCI storage devices. This integration allows the board to support five SATA ports through the JMB585, enhancing its storage capabilities.

The controller also enables Port Multiplier support, significantly expanding potential storage configurations. This setup is particularly beneficial for users looking to maximize their storage options, offering a versatile solution for a variety of storage needs.

Example:

It supports command-based switching (CBS) and FIS (Frame Information Structure)-based switching (FBS). JMB585 also support TRIM to the SSD and can transmit and receive data by both of AHCI mode and legacy IDE mode to and from the host respectively.

Although this review is of the DC output version of the Topton N305 NAS board, there is also two 4-POWER (12V) connectors at the rear corner of the motherboard to supply additional power for bulk storage needs as required in some enclosures and backplanes.

This review focuses on the DC output variant of the Topton N305 NAS motherboard. Additionally, it features two 4-POWER (12V) connectors located at the rear corner. These connectors are designed to supply extra power for extensive storage needs. This capability is especially useful in certain enclosures and backplanes where additional power is necessary for bulk storage management.

The Topton N305 DC motherboard is supplied with an external power supply unit (PSU), specifically a 180W model produced by Chicony, a name that may not be familiar to all. No, me neither…

The fan-assisted CPU cooling system on the Topton N305 NAS motherboard receives commendation for its efficiency, producing minimal noise while maintaining a surprisingly low profile. This design choice enhances the overall user experience by ensuring effective thermal management without adding bulk or disruptive sound to the setup.

The N305 NAS motherboard facilitates M.2 NVMe storage through two 2280 slots. These slots are strategically located on the rear or base of the motherboard for easy access and efficient space utilization. This configuration allows for high-speed storage solutions to be incorporated seamlessly into the system, enhancing its performance capabilities.

The M.2 connectors on the N305 NAS motherboard are specified as PCIe Gen 3×1, providing a maximum bandwidth of 1000MB/s for each slot. While it may be seen as a drawback that 3×4 NVMe drives will operate in these 3×1 slots, limiting their maximum speed, this configuration remains noteworthy. Considering the motherboard’s compact scale and the overall allocation of 9 PCIe lanes, the inclusion of these connectors and their performance capability is still an impressive feat, balancing system expansion with available resources.

Our examination through SSH terminal within UnRAID has verified the configuration of the slots. It’s confirmed that they operate at the downgraded bandwidth of 3×1. This adjustment aligns with the system’s specifications and ensures compatibility within its infrastructure.

During our disk speed tests on the motherboard, a standard PCIe 3×4 NVMe drive was tested using a 1GB file. The results showed a sequential read/write speed of approximately 750-780MB/s. This performance is indicative of the operational bandwidth limits imposed by the 3×1 slot configuration on the motherboard.

In our tests transferring data between two M.2 NVMe drives with a 1GB file, the speeds achieved ranged from 320-330MB/s. This suggests that the two NVMe slots share a single lane or path on the motherboard. The shared pathway is likely the reason for these specific transfer speeds, indicating a bottleneck at the shared connection point.

Located at the front-bottom of the motherboard is a PCIe slot, specifically designed for further system enhancements and expansions. This slot opens up opportunities for additional upgrades, allowing users to customize their setups according to their specific needs. It represents a key feature for those looking to extend the motherboard’s capabilities beyond its initial configuration.

The PCIe slot on the motherboard operates with Gen 3×1 specifications, offering a maximum bandwidth of 1,000MB/s. Despite this limitation, it has been physically designed to accommodate longer cards, such as x4, x8, or x16. This thoughtful design ensures compatibility with a wider range of expansion cards, providing users with greater flexibility in upgrading their systems. It is something of a compromise between bandwidth capability and physical compatibility, enhancing the motherboard’s adaptability for various use cases. The limitations in PCIe speed and lane allocation on the motherboard stem from the CPU’s architecture, which provides 8-9 lanes. This constraint not only affects the N305 model but also has implications for the N100 version of the motherboard and CPU NAS combo. The lane count directly influences the number and types of devices that can be supported concurrently, impacting overall system expandability and performance. This highlights the importance of the CPU’s lane capacity in determining the motherboard’s capability for expansions and upgrades.

Located on the back of the motherboard is a MINIPCIe slot, primarily intended for adding a wireless network card. This slot, while versatile, is not suitable for a wide range of other expansions. Its inclusion provides an option for wireless connectivity, enhancing the board’s functionality without significantly diversifying its expansion capabilities. The MINIPCIe slot located at the rear of the motherboard is shared with the main PCIe 3×1 slot, meaning they cannot be used simultaneously. This configuration limits the ability to expand the system’s connectivity and upgrade capabilities at the same time. Users must choose between utilizing the MINIPCIe slot for wireless networking or the PCIe slot for other expansions, highlighting a trade-off in the motherboard’s design for flexibility versus functionality.

In an interesting move, likely catering to prosumer uses like pfsense and OpenWRT builds, the motherboard includes a 4G LTE/SIM card slot. This addition is somewhat unexpected but expands the board’s utility by enabling direct cellular network access. It suggests a broader vision for the motherboard’s applications, potentially appealing to users requiring remote or backup internet connectivity. Integrating the 4G LTE/SIM card slot for cellular network access into NAS systems like UnRAID may present challenges, as such operating systems might not support this type of cellular network interface. This limitation underscores the importance of verifying compatibility with the intended NAS OS to ensure full functionality of the onboard features. The presence of cellular connectivity options expands the potential use cases for the motherboard, although users must navigate the constraints of OS support.

The motherboard is equipped with four 2.5GbE network ports, each powered by an Intel i226-V controller. This setup significantly enhances the board’s networking capabilities, providing robust, high-speed connections suitable for demanding network environments. The inclusion of multiple 2.5GbE ports allows for flexible network configurations and supports advanced networking features, making it an ideal choice for users looking for high-performance networking options in their NAS setups. The integrated network card on the motherboard enables it to achieve a default network bandwidth of over 1GB per second. This high capacity can be distributed across multiple client devices or utilized fully by a single device through advanced networking techniques such as SMB3, load balancing, LAG, or trunking with a compatible smart switch.

This feature significantly enhances the motherboard’s network performance, catering to both distributed and concentrated network demands. Integrating a 10GbE NIC upgrade into the motherboard’s PCIe 3×1 slot could potentially elevate the network bandwidth to 2GB or 2000MB/s. This enhancement would leverage the available PCIe slot to significantly boost the networking capabilities of the system. Such an upgrade indicates a strong potential for achieving superior network performance, making the system well-suited for high-demand networking tasks. The performance ceiling for the two NVMe drives on the motherboard, even when configured in RAID 0/1, is around 1000MB/s. Meanwhile, connecting 5-6 SATA drives, depending on whether they are HDDs or SATA SSDs, can result in varying performance. With HDDs, expect around 600-800MB/s, and with SATA SSDs, performance can reach up to 1000-1100MB/s. This variation is due to the JMB585 SATA controller operating on a Gen 3 lane, influencing the overall throughput of connected storage devices.

The motherboard is designed with an abundance of USB ports, catering to various connectivity needs. Among these, two ports are uniquely positioned internally, providing a convenient option for connecting an OS boot drive directly on the motherboard. This feature enhances the flexibility and functionality of the system, allowing for streamlined setup and efficient use of space.

The motherboard features six USB 2.0 ports in total, with four positioned on the rear and two internally on the board, designed for versatile connectivity options, including the possibility of an OS boot drive connection. Additionally, it supports USB 3.2 connectivity through front panel and internal pins, expanding its compatibility with faster USB devices.

The motherboard is equipped with HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, supporting 4K resolution at 60FPS. This capability ensures high-quality video output for tasks requiring detailed visuals. Such features make the board suitable for applications beyond traditional computing tasks, including media playback and content creation that demands high-resolution displays.

We conducted a video analysis of the Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU combo, exploring its BIOS features and conducting various tests using UnRAID. This in-depth examination aimed to understand the motherboard’s capabilities, performance, and how it handles in different scenarios, particularly focusing on its compatibility and performance with UnRAID as a potential NAS solution. This process provided valuable insights into its suitability for various computing tasks and its overall performance metrics.

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU Combo – Should You Buy It?

As of 2024, the Topton N305 NAS motherboard stands out for its balance between power efficiency and functionality, especially at its price range. Its CPU, with a flexible TDP ranging from 9 to 15 watts, impressively manages to offer an 8-core, 8-thread configuration capable of reaching up to 3.8 GHz per core. This makes it an excellent choice for tasks like 4K transcoding on a Plex Media Server, with the potential to handle 8K content thanks to its integrated graphics hitting 1.25 GHz. Despite the limitation of having only 9 PCIe Gen 3 lanes, the design efficiently allocates these resources, supporting up to six SATA drives, two M.2 slots, and a PCIe expansion slot, all on a compact MITX board. While the N100 version presents a more cost-effective and slightly less powerful alternative, the modest increase in power consumption of the N305 variant justifies its higher performance capability, making it a superior choice for those needing a more potent setup. The N305’s design, which mirrors the physical and lane layout of the N100 while significantly enhancing performance, demonstrates an impressive achievement in maximizing the utility and efficiency of a small form factor motherboard.

Where to Buy

(Amazon / Aliexpress)

ALIEXPRESS $279 HERE (Upgrades Available)

Amazon $348 HERE (Board Only)

Component Specification
Processor Intel Alder Lake-N i3-N305
Memory 1x SO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz, up to 16/32GB
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 3×1 Slot, 2x SATA3
PCIe Slot PCIe 3×1 (cut)
Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Display Outputs 2x HDMI, 1x DP, 1x Type-C (all 4096 x 2160@60Hz)
Network Card 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G
4G LTE/SIM Yes
Wireless? MICROPCIe Slot (Shared with PCIe 3×1 Slot)
USB Ports 5x USB2.0, 1x USB3 via FPanel and Pins
Cooling Passive cooling with fanless heatsink
BIOS AMI EFI BIOS with various supports
TDP 9-15W
Power Input DC 12V (External PSU option)
Case Material Aluminium Alloy
Expansion PWM fan power connector, TPM Pin
Dimensions 158.0mm x 126.5mm x 60.2mm
Color Black or Gray (random)
Installation Desktop, Wall-mounted
Operating Environment 0°C to 70°C, 5%-85% Humidity

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Synology DS Video and Video Station VS Plex Media Server

Par : Rob Andrews
11 mars 2024 à 18:00

Plex Media Server Vs Synology Video Station on a NAS

One of the most popular reasons that users choose to buy a network-attached storage (NAS) device is for use as a media server. The appeal is pretty clear. With most users now owning decades of media (either in digital form or ripped from optical media at home), the ability to enjoy these box sets and Movies on the latest devices can be complicated. Despite this, streaming all of your multimedia from a NAS to all of your TVs, phones, tablets and other devices are growing increasingly popular and a lot of this is thanks to the increasing affordability of NAS from brands like Synology and QNAP and free software from companies like Plex and Emby. The most popular NAS for home media tends to be Synology, with its support of numerous media server applications and its own premium video service app too. This combined with the oversaturation of third-party online streaming services that ask you to pay a subscription (such as Netflix) with little control or right to ownership of the media you watch means that many users just want to enjoy their own unique media collections. So now that a lot of users are choosing to switch from the likes of Netflix and Prime Video towards an in-house media server, the next question is which piece of software they should choose.

The most popular private media server app right now worldwide to counter the likes of Netflix is Plex Media Server, software available in host and client form that allows you to transform your media collection into a glossy, slick and informative UI that genuinely rivals big online streaming platforms. Synology on the other hand would likely prefer users to stick with their own fully-featured media server application, Synology Video Station, which they have invested well in and developed to an impressive standard that easily rivals that of Plex. So today I want to compare these two media server choices and help you decide which one is the ideal media server choice for you.

Important – ‘Free’ Vs Paid Media Server Services on a NAS

Before going any further, it is worth addressing the elephant in the room, namely that a number of key media server services that are included with Plex Media Server are locked behind a paid subscription service known as Plex Pass. Whereas Synology Video Station is an application that is included with your NAS on Day 1 at no additional cost. All that said, neither service can technically be called free, as both still require you to purchase a Synology NAS. Additionally, it is still worth highlighting that some more recent Innovations in Plex online services and utilisation of hardware transcoding (the ability to use the CPU’s embedded graphics or an available graphics card to adapt files on the fly to make them better suited to a client) is not available on the free tier of Plex, but ARE available by default in the Synology Video Station application. You can still utilise software transcoding on Plex for free and this will deal with a large degree of transcoding requirements, but the fact that you have to pay extra within the Plex app to utilise the hardware already available on your NAS is something a number of users find difficult to accept. Throughout this article, any feature that is only available as a paid Plex Pass feature will be highlighted as such.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – Installation and First Time Setup

Installation of either the Synology Video Station or Plex Media Server application is near enough identical. Both are readily available in the Synology app centre and can be installed within two clicks. Both media server applications do not require your multimedia files to be stored in a pre-designated/directory location and the sources for TV shows, Movies and more can be scanned and indexed by each media server application after they are installed. In fact, the initial installation on both is incredibly straightforward and there is really only one main difference between them. That difference is that whereas the Synology Media application uses your original NAS login credentials, Plex will require you to set up an account with them online in order to use the software, even if you only intend to use your Plex Media Server on the local network/DLNA. As Plex is a third-party application, this is a little understandable if a tiny bit annoying for some. 

It is also worth highlighting that both media server applications will receive regular updates during their lifespan and this is treated slightly differently too. As Synology Video Station is a first-party app, as soon as an update is available, you will be notified immediately in the app centre and even have the opportunity to apply these firmware updates automatically. Plex updates on the other hand will almost always need to be installed manually, as the available default Plex application on the Synology app centre is updated considerably less frequently and as soon as you setup Plex for the first time, it will ALWAYS inform you that there is a new update available straight away. The Plex Media Server application itself will tell you when an update is available regularly at the top right and in the settings menu, but requires you to download the latest Plex server update to a connected computer and then you need to upload this update directly to the Synology NAS app centre manually. It is only a small inconvenience really, but does mean that regular updates on your media server of choice are handled more easily and with likely more frequency on Synology Video Station rather than Plex.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – GUI, Media Support and Browsing

The user interface of Synology Video Station and Plex Media Server are quite similar when viewed on a client device, such as a console, TV and Amazon Fire TV stick. With all of your available Movies and Boxsets clearly shown and the metadata collected by each media server application creating a great user interface for your connected users. 

However the back end/server view of each media server application is considerably different and where the Synology Video Station application is designed exclusively around video media options and configuration (as Synology have a wide range of applications for different Media types and general NAS server maintenance already available), Plex, on the other hand, is a far better equipped tool for a complete server, with the bulk of server maintenance and customisation options built into the single Plex GUI. If you are something of an IT novice, the wide range of options that Plex Media Server throws at you for system maintenance can be a touch intimidating and because Plex is designed around many different kinds of media support (something we will touch on later) it’s configuration needs to be noticeably broader than the video-centric options in the Synology official video application. These additional options, if you take the time to go through them, will definitely lead to a better media server user experience and a far better multimedia streaming system overall, it’s just a question of how bespoke and how elaborate you want your media server to be.

As mentioned, there is a clear difference in the multimedia types supported in Plex Media Server or Synology Video Station. In terms of handling of video Media, they are near enough identical with some exceptions with regard to specialist audio handling for certain dense Media. However, much like the back-end server control mentioned earlier, Synology Video Station only handles video media and relies on alternative applications such as Synology moments, photo station, Synology photos, audio station and download station to play and obtain other kinds of multimedia. Plex Media Server is a much more diverse multimedia tool with support of your photo collections (AI-assisted too), album collections, podcast streaming and several online video streaming services included. In both cases, it makes a lot of sense why they are designed this way, but some users may prefer their media server to be more of a Swiss army knife and others may want their video streaming, music streaming and photo streaming to be different services for different devices and clients. Neither Plex or Synology Video Station really gain any advantage here but simply show how they are different in their architecture. If you want simplicity in the user interface, go with Synology Video Station. If you want simplicity in your media server as a whole, go with Plex Media Server.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – Meta Data Scraping

The scraping of metadata in a media server is precisely what separates a bog-standard selection of files and folders on your screen from a slick graphical user interface that is engaging, informative and a joy to use. When we talk about metadata, we are talking about thumbnails, box art, media descriptions, cast listings, review scores, trailers and more. When we say scraping, that is the process of the software accessing numerous online databases to retrieve and store this information locally to the NAS. The result is your years of TV and movie collection being transformed into something near identical to Netflix and Amazon Prime video in presentation. Metadata ultimately benefits connected users and their client hardware devices, with both Plex and Video Station being very similar in how they look to a client device, albeit with a few branded differences in colour and config.

However, on the server-side, both Synology Video Station and Plex have gone a different way with metadata scraping at a setup level. Of the two, Synology Video Station is definitely the less option-heavy and although this is thanks in many ways to a lot of key options being found in the general server GUI outside of the app, it is still pretty thin on the ground for configuration of your video media server. This is not an enormous surprise given how Synology have generally erred towards keeping things as user-friendly as possible and this is often done by simplifying configurations and sitting numerous settings to system default. The options for scraping metadata on the Synology are surprisingly thin on the ground and some more advanced options require you to sign up to some resource database websites to obtain a two-way key. Despite this, Synology still manages to scrape a tremendous amount of metadata without this key and resource linking. Indeed, although the number of supported databases for metadata listed on the Synology Video Station app is few and far between, it was still able to find the same level of metadata found on the Plex Media Server application and displayed all of the test media perfectly. 

Plex Media Server has access to significantly more online databases and although the system will generally ask you to select which one individually you wish to scrape for metadata in each library, it does do it with a high degree of accuracy. It also manages to scrape this metadata for more than just your Movies and applies this also to your music collection and podcast collection too within the app. Metadata scraping via Plex Media Server also does not require any kind of log-in to these individual databases and is largely automated off the bat, with users being able to switch designated databases for each Media type and folder on the fly. Of course, this all doesn’t guarantee accuracy and will still always be based on the format and layout of your Media in many cases (tv shows listed as S01E01 for season 1, episode 1, etc), but nevertheless, it has to be said that with more available resources and less configuration required for each of them, that Plex Media Server has the broader and more likely to succeed position on metadata scraping.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – Playback and Transcoding

This is one of the most important parts of any media server in the grand scheme of things – multimedia playback and transcoding. This is typically the action of changing a media file into a version that is more acceptable to the client device that you are enjoying it on (TV, Phone, Console, etc). This extends to but is not limited to, changing the resolution, changing the bitrate, changing the file format and ultimately compressing a file into a smaller version in most cases. Because Plex and Synology Video Station are available on the same NAS system, it means that media variations with regard to codecs, compressions and file types will be equally supported at the default level. If a file can be played back in its original version on Plex, it can be played back on Synology Video Station. However, it is when these files need to be adapted with transcoding that we see clear distinctions between each of them. Transcoding is something that remote accessing client users will likely use without even realising it, as they might well be on a limited data connection (speed or coverage at the time) or using a smaller device (such as a phone) to playback a monster 4K 60FPS movie that is overkill on that hardware. So, transcoding is at its best when you do not notice it is being done OR it is adaptable in as many ways as possible to cover all your likely scenarios.

When the NAS needs to perform a transcode on a file on the fly (eg, so you need to convert a video file into a better-suited version for the client watching device upon request and without delay) it will typically do it with software transcoding or hardware transcoding. Software transcoding is when the system uses the raw resources of the CPU and memory inside the NAS to convert the file. Hardware transcoding is when the NAS system features a graphical component (such as embedded graphics featured on a CPU) or an available graphics card that is installed – as these are designed for handling video files and/or graphical manipulation tasks, and will therefore utilise considerably fewer resources. Plex Media Server only provides hardware transcoding in the paid subscription service Plex Pass and then needs to be enabled in the encoding section by selecting the option ‘make my CPU hurt’. Software transcoding is available for the free version of Plex Media Server but is far less efficient and will result in much higher-end Media in 4K and 1080p playback consuming the majority of hardware resources to transcode or will simply not play at all. 

Synology Video Station on the other hand, because it is a native first-party app, has full access to the hardware transcoding element of the NAS and therefore allows users to take advantage of it easily and immediately, and at no additional cost. This has been one of the driving forces behind the popularity of Synology Video Station application, as although the majority of NAS brands have their own video player, Synology is the only one that manages to merge the slick meta-data supported graphical user interface found in Plex but still manages to provide the free and unlimited limited access to the hardware resources you would expect after spending several $100s on a NAS. That said, the way that Synology handles the subject of transcoding in its user interface is a little peculiar, especially for users who are trying to balance the best possible playback vs the most appropriate transcoding level on the fly/manually. 

When you wish for the NAS system to transcode a file in the Video Station user interface, you are presented with the options for adjusting the picture quality to high, medium, low, very low, etc. This is exactly what one might expect from a brand that wants to consistently keep things as simple as possible, however, for those who want to select a specific quality level to playback the file or want a better idea of the best quality level in future should be for other files, this will be extraordinarily limiting. Plex Media Server on the other hand allows you to switch between an automatic transcode option that changes the file to the recommended quality level for the client and connection, or you can specifically switch one of numerous video quality levels that break down into both resolution and bitrate in several places. Overall, the ability for Video Station to be able to take advantage of hardware transcoding at no additional cost and with little or no intervention from the end-user is still ultimately the best thing here. I just wish they gave uses a better degree of control and choice as found in Plex Media Server.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – Client Support

Having a slick and well-performing media server is always good, but if you cannot watch the media inside it on the devices you regularly use, then it’s all a bit pointless. Most people are already well aware that the multimedia collections they have on a NAS can easily be streamed over the local area network via popular methods such as DLNA and UPnP (digital living network alliance and universal plug and play). However, they are much more file and folder, breadcrumb level streaming and in order to enjoy the pretty GUI of Plex and Synology Video Station, an official client app needs to be available on the respective app centre or made unofficially and manually installed. This is an area where Plex Media Server almost completely wins over Synology Video Station, as it simply cannot compete with the variety and accessibility of the Plex client availability in popular app centres. 

Full credit to Plex, they have really taken the time to make sure their platform is available on pretty much any modern device, in what multiple client or media server application forms. They also take the time after an official update of services and then push these updates across each available downloadable client. This is largely impossible for Synology to compete with and they instead opt for a much more targeted client support regime, supporting all modern mobile phone OS’, desktop operating systems and some of the major sofa accessible app centres on TVs and streamers like Amazon fire TV. In  8 out of 10 cases, your device will support both Plex and Synology Video Station, but this is by no means total and sometimes a hardware client (such as an off-brand Android phone, tablet or media box) that you hope to support Video Station will sadly not. 

It is once again worth mentioning that Synology separates different multimedia types towards their own individual client apps, for example, DS Audio or Audio Station for music and DS Photo for photography. Indeed, some of these apps are quite advanced with practically unique connectivity to the likes of Amazon Alexa (something currently impossible on any other NAS platform without a 3rd party application like ‘my-media’ Alexa skill. But this, unfortunately, does not make up for being truly overshadowed by the wider degree of support available on Plex across numerous clients and smart Home devices – though the latter does require a Plex Pass. For sheer volume of connectivity on the clients, Plex wins by an absolute landslide.

Plex VS Synology Video Station – Conclusion

Throughout this comparison of Plex Media Server and Synology Video Station, it has become abundantly clear that one tool is designed around being a Swiss army knife of features and functions, whilst the other performs a smaller but key range of services exceptionally well. Those who have been using Plex Media Server for a number of years are highly unlikely to make the jump to Synology Video Station, as it may feel less feature-rich and perhaps a tad bare-bones. However, those users who are new to the idea of private NAS based multimedia streaming would do very well to try out Synology Video Station first, as I genuinely believe when it comes to concentrating on video streaming services, it is genuinely one of the best platforms out there – albeit clearly restricted to just Synology NAS devices. Plex Media Server attempts to do many things in its pursuit of being the go-to media server of choice for those jumping ship from Netflix and succeeds in most cases, it is just worth remembering that in recent years the platform has perhaps tried to diversify a tad too much. 

PLEX MEDIA SERVER

Synology Video Station

Best for Mixed Media

Best for Ease of Access on Client Hardware

Best for Transcoding Control

Best for Add On Services

Best for Metadata Sources

Best for Price

Best Performance for Transcoding

Best for Ease of Use

Best for Ease Setup

Best for Updates & Firmware Revs

Thanks for reading and I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect multimedia server for streaming with your friends, family and colleagues. If you are still lost on the right NAS, multimedia software or ideal backup system for your needs, then take advantage of the free advice section below. This is a completely free and unbias service to help work out their ideal data storage solution for you. It is manned by my myself and EddieTheWebGuy, so although replies may take an extra day or so, we will answer your email and have your best interests in mind! Have a great week.

If you are thinking of buying a NAS for Multimedia, Please use the links below:

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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
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 check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have 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.

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CWWK AMD 7840HS CPU+Motherboard Combo Deep Dive

Par : Rob Andrews
1 mars 2024 à 15:00

CWWK AMD 7840HS NAS Motherboard – Any Good?

If you have been in the market for building your own NAS from scratch on a budget, then if you push past all the Intel Celeron, Pentium and Core CPU+Mobo combos that are flooded in the market, you might well come across this recently revealed AMD powered monster of a CPU+Motherbaord combination – The CWWK AMD-7840HS board. Arriving under several retailer brand (including Topton), this board arrives with an 8 Core CPU that can burst up to 5.1 Ghz, 2.7Ghz int. Gfx, 4x 2.5GbE, a PCIe Gen 4×8 slot, USB 4, 2x Gen 4×2 M,.2 slots an d support for up to 9 SATA drives. I mean.. WOW. The TDP is a little higher than some might like, the ECC support is up for debate (more on that later) and the 20 Lane CPU is definitely being spread out pretty wide – but there is no denying that this is a serious bot of kit. So, what exactly do you get when you pay $499+ for this SoC Mobile CPU and Motherboard combo? What’s the design like? And should you be considering this for your next TrueNAS Build? Let’s take a closer look at the AMD-7840HS NAS board.

Here are a few examples of where you can get this board online:

  • (Topton) 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Topton) The AMD-7940HS CPU+Board + 1TB NVMe + 32GB DDR5 + SFF Cables + CPU HS $729 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (KingNovy) Complete Board + AMD-7940HS $509 (AliExpress) HERE
  • Learn more about other Recommended M-ITX CPU+Mobo Combos HERE in an article or HERE on YouTube

Note – Performance Testing and NAS Building are still ‘WiP’ on this board as I wait for the last few components to arrive for YouTube. I will update this article with additional information resources after testing is concluded

Specification Detail
Architecture Zen 4 (Phoenix)
Cores / Threads 8 / 16
Base / Boost Frequency 3.8 GHz / 5.1 GHz
TDP (Thermal Design Power) 35 W (Configurable 35-54 W)
Memory Support DDR5, LPDDR5x up to 7500 MT/s; Dual-channel; ECC support (in specific configurations of CPU)
Integrated Graphics Radeon 780M; Graphics engine boost clock: 2700MHz
PCI-Express Gen 4, 20 Lanes (CPU only)
Cache (L1/L2/L3) 64 KB per core / 1 MB per core / 16 MB shared
Process Size 4 nm
Socket Compatibility FP8
Production Status / Release Date Active / January 2023
Part Numbers 100-000000955 (FP7r2), 100-000000964 (FP7), 100-000001129 (FP8)
Maximum Temperature (tJMax) 100°C
Features AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, ECC Memory Support, AMD-V, Precision Boost 2


CWWK AMD 7840HS Mobo Physical Design

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo represents a significant leap in compact computing, catering to a wide range of users from enthusiasts to professionals requiring high-performance systems in small form factors.

This combination of AMD’s Ryzen 7 7840HS processor and a feature-rich Mini-ITX motherboard offers an intriguing blend of power, efficiency, and expansion capabilities, making it an ideal choice for various applications, including gaming, content creation, and server use.

The motherboard itself is a lovely bit of engineering, designed with a matte black PCB and a high-density, moisture-free fiber 10-layer circuit board, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability. This design philosophy extends to the motherboard’s support for AMD’s “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors, providing users with the ability to choose a CPU that best fits their performance needs without compromising on form factor.

One of the standout features of this motherboard is its expansion capabilities, particularly notable given its 17×17 standard Mini-ITX form factor. It includes a PCI-E x16 slot (PCle4.0 x8 signal) for graphics or network card expansions, two M.2 NVMe (PCle4.0 x2) slots for high-speed storage, and SFF-8643 sockets that support up to four SATA 3.0 connections via cable.

This level of expandability is uncommon in Mini-ITX motherboards, offering users the flexibility to build a compact yet powerful system that can handle demanding applications and storage needs.

Memory support is another area where the 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo shines. With dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slots supporting up to 5600MHz (and backward compatibility for server-grade ECC notebook memory), it allows for high-speed, reliable memory configurations up to 64GB. This capability is crucial for application ons requiring fast data access and processing, such as video editing and 3D rendering.

HOWEVER, there is definitely a debate as to whether you can actually use ECC memory! CWWK lists 4 different CPU SKUs for this mobo and only 1 of them (the 7735HS) actually supports ECC. So, in order to investigate, I installed 1x 16GB Kingston ECC SODIMM 4800Mhz module and ran some SSH commands. Sadly, it appears that the default 7840HS version of this motherboard combo does NOT support ECC (SEE VIDEO ABOVE)

The combo’s connectivity options are equally impressive, featuring four Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, HDMI+DP+Type-C triple display outputs supporting 4K@60Hz, and multiple USB 3.2 and Type-C interfaces. Such comprehensive connectivity ensures that users can connect a wide array of peripherals, displays, and network connections, making the system versatile for different setups and applications.

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo is a great example of modern computing’s direction towards more efficient, powerful, and versatile systems within increasingly compact form factors. Whether for gaming, professional work, or server applications, this combo offers a compelling option for those seeking the pinnacle of performance and flexibility in a small package.

Its combination of a high-performance processor, expansive memory and storage options, and robust connectivity makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo features ASMedia SATA controllers, specifically the ASM1166 and ASM1164 chips, which are central to its enhanced SATA connectivity. These chips enable the motherboard to efficiently manage SATA connections, ensuring stable and rapid data transfer rates for a range of storage devices.

The inclusion of two SFF-8643 connectors, influenced by these ASMedia components, significantly boosts the motherboard’s storage expansion capabilities. These connectors allow for up to eight SATA devices to be connected through breakout cables, optimizing storage scalability within a compact form factor. However, it’s important to highlight that these connectors do not support NVMe drives, focusing instead on maximizing SATA device compatibility.

This motherboard also boasts a single standard SATA port, complementing the SFF-8643 connectors to offer comprehensive support for SATA-based storage configurations. The strategic integration of ASMedia SATA controllers underscores a commitment to providing versatile and reliable storage solutions, tailored for users prioritizing a balance of speed, capacity, and efficiency in their builds.

The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS is a notable entry in AMD’s mobile processor lineup, launched in January 2023. Part of the Ryzen 7 series and built on the advanced Zen 4 (Phoenix) architecture, this chip is designed to deliver high performance for laptops and portable devices. With 8 cores and 16 threads thanks to AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT), the 7840HS offers substantial multitasking capabilities. Operating at a base frequency of 3.8 GHz with the ability to boost up to 5.1 GHz, it combines speed with efficiency, all within a 35W thermal design power (TDP). This processor also supports DDR5 memory and has integrated Radeon 780M graphics, making it well-suited for both productivity tasks and gaming.

Physically, the Ryzen 7 7840HS is manufactured using TSMC’s 4 nm process technology, which houses 25,000 million transistors on a 178 mm² die. This compact yet powerful CPU is designed for AMD’s Socket FP8, underscoring its mobile-oriented design with a configurable TDP range of 35-54W. It supports a wide range of features, including ECC memory for data integrity and PCI-Express Gen 4 for high-speed component communication.  The Ryzen 7 7840HS stands out with its inclusion of the latest Ryzen AI technology, aimed at enhancing generative AI applications, and its leading-edge Radeon 780M integrated graphics. This combination not only boosts traditional computing tasks but also opens up new possibilities in AI and gaming. The processor’s architecture enables significant improvements in instructions per cycle (IPC), benefiting from larger caches and faster memory support up to LPDDR5x-7500. Its performance is competitive with top-tier processors in its category, reflecting AMD’s commitment to delivering powerful computing solutions.

The discussion around ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory support on the CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo reveals a nuanced landscape of compatibility and performance considerations. While the motherboard touts support for “server-grade ECC” memory, indicating an ability to correct data corruption on-the-fly and enhance system reliability, the reality of ECC support is more complex. It requires alignment across the CPU, motherboard, and the memory itself. The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor, integral to this combo, along with other CPUs offered by CWWK, presents a mixed picture regarding ECC compatibility. Despite AMD’s general support for ECC across many of its CPUs, the specific models available with this motherboard, including the 7840HS, do not officially support ECC, highlighting a disconnect between processor capabilities and motherboard features. This discrepancy underscores the importance of thorough compatibility checks for users who prioritize ECC for its error-correcting capabilities, especially in environments where data integrity is paramount.4

The situation is further complicated by the motherboard’s design and the marketing of DDR5 memory with “on-die ECC,” which does not equate to traditional ECC memory’s error-correcting functionality. This type of ECC, often referred to as a marketing gimmick, fails to provide the same level of error correction and data integrity assurance as server-grade ECC memory. As enthusiasts and professionals debate the motherboard’s ECC support, it becomes evident that while the hardware may technically support ECC, the practical benefits and implementation may fall short without the full cooperation of the CPU and explicit support from the motherboard’s firmware. This scenario leaves users in a precarious position, needing to navigate between marketing claims and technical specifications to determine the true extent of ECC support and its relevance to their specific use cases.

Given the technical details and specifications of the CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo, we can infer some positive and negative points about this hardware combination despite the inability to access the specific Reddit page for user insights.

===== Further Testing – COMING SOON =====

Check our YouTube channel for further videos on the AMD-7840HS NAS Motherboard for testing first (such as the video below):


CWWK AMD 7840HS NAS Motherboard Review Conclusion – Pros and Cons

Spec Highlights – 4x AMD MobileRyzen Options, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, ECC Supported, 2×M.2 2280 4×2 SSD Slots, PCIe 4×8 connector ×1 (x16 Physical), SFF-8643 x2 Connectors for SATA III, 4x 2.5GbE, USB 4 (20Gbs Limits) , Internal USB 2.0   $489 on AliExpress and Check on Amazon

The combination of the AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors with a very unique motherboard offers a high-performance platform that is particularly suitable for building a low scale, but HIGH POWER Network Attached Storage (NAS) server. The Mini-ITX form factor of the motherboard, compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers, ensures that it can fit into compact NAS cases while providing adequate cooling for the powerful processors housed within. In the realm of NAS servers, storage options and connectivity are key. The motherboard’s two M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots are ideal for high-speed storage drives that can handle intense read and write operations typical in a NAS environment. The inclusion of 2 * SFF-8643 sockets, which support up to four connections each and a total of 9 SATA 3.0, is an advanced feature that provides flexibility and scalability for storage expansion. This is particularly beneficial for NAS setups where large storage pools and redundancy (such as RAID configurations) are important. Network connectivity is another critical aspect of NAS servers, and this motherboard delivers with its 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer and network redundancy or link aggregation if required. However, the lack of 10GbE port might limit the network throughput if higher speeds are needed, in which case the PCIe Gen 5×16 slot could be employed for an additional network interface card, although this might be considered an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth expansion slot. Lastly, the wide array of USB ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C with a 20Gbps rate and additional USB3.2 and USB2.0 ports, adds to the versatility of this motherboard. The built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets also allow for further expansion and connectivity options, essential for a NAS that may need to accommodate a variety of peripherals or provide additional data transfer interfaces.

PROS
  • High-Performance CPU: The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor, with 8 cores and 16 threads capable of reaching up to 5.1GHz, offers excellent performance for demanding applications and multitasking. This makes the combo suitable for high-end gaming, content creation, and computational tasks.
  • Comprehensive Connectivity and Expansion: The motherboard’s design, featuring a PCI-E x16 slot (physically, in reality it is x8 operational), dual M.2 NVMe slots, multiple SATA3.0 connections, and 2.5G RJ45 network ports, provides a wide range of connectivity options. This allows for extensive storage solutions, high-speed internet connectivity, and the possibility of graphics or network card expansions, making it versatile for various use cases.
  • Advanced Memory Support: With dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slots supporting up to 5600MHz and server-grade ECC notebook memory (still being investigated about it’s compatibility in Mobo vs CPU in the 7840HS), the combo offers cutting-edge memory technology with high-speed and reliable memory options, beneficial for workstations and servers requiring error correction for stability.
  • Efficient Power Consumption: The TDP rating of 35-54W for the CPU indicates efficient power usage, which is crucial for keeping the system cool and reducing energy costs, particularly in environments where the system might be running continuously, such as servers or media centers.
  • Compact and Durable Design: The Mini-ITX form factor is ideal for users looking to build small, space-efficient systems without compromising on performance. Additionally, the high-quality, moisture-free fiber circuit board with full protection enhances the durability and longevity of the motherboard.
CONS
  • Power Supply Requirements: The recommendation to use a power supply of more than 500W with 9 disks may necessitate a higher initial investment for users aiming to fully utilize the motherboard’s storage capabilities, especially in compact builds where space and cooling for large power supplies can be a concern.
  • Complexity for Beginners: The wealth of features and expansion options, while beneficial for experienced users, may overwhelm beginners. The technical nature of managing multiple storage devices, optimizing memory configurations, and ensuring compatibility with various components requires a certain level of expertise.
  • Limited PCI-E Bandwidth: The single PCI-E x16 slot operating at x8 signal might limit the performance of high-end graphics cards or other PCI-E devices. This could be a bottleneck for users aiming to achieve maximum graphical performance or looking to install multiple high-bandwidth PCI-E cards.
  • Cost: Given the high-end specifications and features, the CWWK 7840HS combo is likely to carry a premium price tag. This cost might be prohibitive for budget-conscious builders or those who do not require the advanced features offered by this combo.
  • Cooling Considerations: The compact Mini-ITX form factor, while advantageous for space-saving, may present challenges in terms of cooling, especially when housing high-performance components like the Ryzen 7840HS. Users will need to carefully consider cooling solutions to maintain optimal temperatures and prevent thermal throttling.

 

Here are a few examples of where you can get this board online:

  • (Topton) 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Topton) The AMD-7940HS CPU+Board + 1TB NVMe + 32GB DDR5 + SFF Cables + CPU HS $729 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (KingNovy) Complete Board + AMD-7940HS $509 (AliExpress) HERE
  • Learn more about other Recommended M-ITX CPU+Mobo Combos HERE in an article or HERE on YouTube
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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
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 check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have 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.

☕ WE LOVE COFFEE ☕

 

Plex Tests – Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ NAS Comparison

Par : Rob Andrews
26 février 2024 à 18:00

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – Which Should You Buy?

Today I want to compare the hardware on offer inside the Synology DS923+ NAS (released in Dec 2022) and compare it with the newer and more lower powered, but hugely popular Synology DS423+ NAS (released inin Summer 2023). However, unlike previous comparisons of these two NAS (such as the hardware and software comparison HERE that I published a few months ago) today I want to compare how the DS423+ and DS923+ perform as a Plex Media Server, with a series of 720p, 1080p and 4K tests. I have already tested these two NAS devices individually, but never directly compared their performance side by side. Now that a number of prominent Synology NAS releases have arrived with AMD Ryzeen embedded processors (such as the AMD Ryzen R1600 and V1500), many are wondering if they should choose to buy the older and more affordable Synology NAS drives that still feature Intel embedded/integrated graphics, such as the DS423+ with it’s J4125 Celeron CPU. So, let’s get this test up and running. First, we need to take a quick look at the individual hardware of these two NAS devices.

Synology DS423+ NAS Synology DS923+ NAS

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – Internal Hardware

These 4-Bay Diskstation releases from Synology have always been one of the most interesting tiers of the brand’s desktop solutions. The reason for this is that all too often this scale of system serves as a bridging point between Prosumer & SOHO systems and the small/medium business hardware in their portfolio. This is demonstrated first in the scale of the available RAID 5/6 storage, but then more so in the scalability and upgradability of these two volumes system, allowing an expansion, greater network connectivity (arriving with 2x LAN ports) and better internal hardware than the more domestic targetted solutions – often with the internal hardware differing considerably between each periodic 2-3yr refresh by the brand. Let’s first look at the internal hardware of these two NAS’ to see how much they differ. The DS423+ NAS first arrived on the scene with some great hardware advantages over the rest of the plus series 2023/2024 systems (DS223, DS124, etc), arriving with a 4 Core Intel Celeron Processor that featured integrated graphics, 4GB of DDR4 2666Mhz memory and NVMe SSD upgrade slots. In the 3-4 years since this hardware configuration was firt released though (the DS920+/DS720+ released in summer 2020), Synology clearly decided to make some big changes in the base level architecture of the plus series and specifically in the DS923+ to make it considerably more scalable and general business/file-ops focused. The newer DS923+ features a dual-core AMD Ryzen embedded R1600 that, although arriving with half the cores of the Celeron in the DS423+, has a higher CPU frequency and total achievable frequency in turbo/burst when needed. That said, users will be surprised to learn that this CPU also does not feature embedded graphics, so therefore the DS923+ will be less CPU efficient at handling multimedia or VM deployment than the DS423+.

Though both systems feature DDR4 memory, the DS423’s maximum 8GB of memory is beaten by the DS923+ thanks to its use of much more impressive ECC (error code correction) memory to identify and repair any bit level write errors and can also be scaled to a considerably higher 32GB of memory (arriving with 8GB by default).

NAS Model DS423+

DS923+

CPU Model Intel Celeron J4125 AMD Ryzen R1600
CPU Quantity 1 Embedded Ryzen
CPU Architecture 64-bit 64-bit
CPU Frequency 4-core 2.0 – 2.7 GHz 2-core 2.6 – 3.1 GHz
Hardware Encryption Engine (AES-NI) Yes Yes
Integrated Graphics Yes No
CPU Cache 4 MB cache 1 MB L2 cache, 4 MB L3 cache
Memory
System Memory 4GB DDR4 non-ECC SODIMM 4GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
Memory Module Pre-installed (4GB On-board) 4 GB (4GB x 1)
TDP 10W 25W
Total Memory Slots 1 2
Maximum Memory Capacity 8GB 32 GB (16 GB x 2)
System Fan 92 mm x 92 mm x 2 pcs 92 mm x 92 mm x 2 pcs
Power Supply Unit / Adapter 65W External 90W External

You can find out more about the hardware-specific difference between the Synology DS423+ and DS923+ NAS in the video below OR via the article HERE. This video/article coves everything from the storage capabilities, ports & connections and extent to which they run/perform in DSM 7.1. Although this article is specifically tailored to look at Plex Media Server performance, I would strongly recommend checking out more information on either of these NAS before you make any decision.

Let’s carry on talking about these two NAS and Plex. What difference des the TYPE of media tha you play make on how these two NAS perform in Plex?

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – Understanding MEDIA!

Important Terms to Understand in Plex/NAS/Multimedia that will make the DS923+ or DS423+ NAS Plex Tests Easier to Understand.

  • SD, 160p, 240p, 480p, 720p, 1080p, 4K : This is the resolution that the media is being displayed at. The higher the resolution, the larger number of pixels that are available and depending on the original recording quality of the media in question. High resolutions, such as 1080p and 4K require more work to be done by the NAS hardware in order to playback the file. More often than not, a NAS with weak embedded graphics or no embedded graphics at all will be unable to play 4K very well or indeed at all. It is important to remember that just because a NAS brand like Synology says that their latest NAS can natively play back 1080p or 4K media (natively = played using their own NAS software, software client tools and/or DLNA), that does not mean that the DS423+ or DS923+ will play to the same standard in Plex, as Plex is a 3rd party tool
  • Transcoding, Encoding, Decoding : These are all different techniques/names for when a file needs to be changed in order to be better suited to the connected client device connection, strength or hardware. If you are accessing all your media on the local area network (i.e only accessing your plex media at home), then transcoding will rarely be something you will use (unless your media is largely H.265/HEVC based, see earlier). However, perhaps you are accessing your plex library on the train to work or from a sun bed whilst on holiday. Perhaps you have a smaller data bandwidth/allowed MB/GB, maybe a weaker internet connection, perhaps you are using a smaller phone device and you might not need to watch your 4K 50GB Blu-ray rip of the latest Marvel Movie – in these situations, you might well want to access the media on your Synology DS923+ or DS423+ Plex NAS at a lesser quality than the original version, so transcoding/re-encoding on the fly (as in, at the same time it is being played) is what you would want to do. Remember, transcoding is by far the most heavy-weight thing you will need to do on a NAS. It is also worth remembering that in order for Plex o be able to use the FULL resources of a NAS CPU (such as embedded graphics) that you will need to enable ‘Make My CPU Hurt’ in the Encoder Menu of the Plex NAS Settings menu – this also potentially requires a Plex Pass subscription, depending on the NAS in question

 

  • H.264, HEVC, H.265 :  These are compression techniques that are designed to allow large-scale media presentations that were made for a cinema to be viewable from your sofa (with H.265 being the more effective/powerful compression level). H.264 can largely be played by ALL devices, but many devices do not have permission or a license to play H.265/HEVC (they are the same thing). This is because, where H.264 is an easy license and comparatively free to use, H.265/HEVC licencing and patents are spread across multiple providers and allowing a device license to use this compression technique can be complex, expensive or simply impossible. Therefore HEVC/H.265 media will sometimes AUTOMATICALLY need to be converted/transcoded into H.264 etc in order to be played – therefore eating up more system resources. The DS923+, much like the rest of the Synology NAS range do not arrive with HEVC support by default
  • Bitrate : Bitrate is the amount of data encoded for a unit of time, and for streaming is usually referenced in megabits per second (Mbps) for video, and in kilobits per second (kbps) for audio. Higher quality and higher resolution media tends to be of a much higher bitrate

For more information on the most important terms to understand when discussing/researching a NAS as a Plex Media Server can be found in my video below:

Any further questions, you can use the free advice section at the bottom of the page and ask me and Eddie directly.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 720p h.264 3Mbps Video File

The first test was with a very low-end 720p media file:

Virtually no difference in performance and you can likely play a considerable number of these files before the system shows even a hint of difficulty.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 720p h.264 3Mbps Video File

Another 720p file for test two, similar bitrate to test 1:

Once again, both the DS423+ and DS923+ NAS performed near identically in Plex and zero issues were seen.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 720p h.264 3Mbps Video File CONVERT to 480p

Test three was our first transcoding/encoding test. Here I wanted to see how well the systems would cope with having a fle format/playback altered on the fly. If you are watching media on smaller devices, over limited internet connections or using a legacy client device that does not support the file format, compression, codec or scale (size), then transocding is going to be very important. This was 720p down to 480p

Both played the file and transcoded it very easily. Despite the lack of embedded graphics on the R1600 CPU inside the Synology DS923+ versus the Intel J4125 Celeron inside the DS423+, things were great on both in this test.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 720p h.264 3Mbps Video File CONVERT to 240p

Time for ANOTHER transcoding test, but this one was s much bigger and more extreme transcode/encode. I wanted to change a 720p file to a 240p file format. This is a pretty aggressive change and one that was mainly picked to simulate heavy Plex NAS use generally (not specific to this format of file/change).

This was the first (and not last) time that the clear advantage of an embedded graphics Intel Celeron CPU inside the DS423+ would prove much more effective in Plex versus the AMD embedded Ryzen R1600 CPU inside the DS923+ NAS. Both NAS devices did the job, but the R1600 / DS923+ had to work much, much hardware with software transcoding and raw power.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 1080p h.264 3Mbps Video File

On to 1080p Plex Tests on the DS423+ and DS923+ NAS. This was a fairly domestic HD 1080p file test, played native.

Once again, like the early 720p tests, the DS423+ and DS923+ performed perfectly well.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 1080p h.264 3Mbps

A slightly more dense 1080p file this time, using the Jellyfish test files.

Once again, very clear and even performance by both NAS systems in the 1080p 2nd test without any transcoding on the R1600 and J4125 CPU-powered devices. A clear draw.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 1080p h.264 3Mbps Video File CONVERT to 160p

Time for more transcoding! Transcoding/re-encoding the 1080p file in Plex to an incredibly lowly 160p. Again, I am aware that few users will actually watch 160p, but many will want this support for audio media equivalent workload and/or for large numbers of streams. Ultimately, we want to know the impact on the DS923+ and DS423+ NAS in plex with these.

Once again, the onboard/embedded graphics that the Synology DS423+ (Intel Celeron J4125) has over the non-integrated graphics DS923+ (AMD R1600) clearly resulted in the older 4-Bay NAS getting this job done with very little fuss. Whereas the Neewer 5-Bay NAS was unable to complete the task.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 1080p h.264 100Mbps

Switching things up to an incredibly DENSE 1080p file, I selected the 100Mbps file format (h.264) to see how the DS923+ and DS423+ would play this natively.

Very similar results on both NAS playing the file natively, which was very positive. The DS923+ used the tiniest bit more, but in the grand scheme of things, both of these NAS performed exceptionally well in Plex and this heavy-duty 1080P FILE.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 1080p h.265 – HEVC 10bit 10Mbps

Now we move towards a very different ball game. Although the next test was a 10Mbps bitrate 1080p file (remember, the previous test was 10x this density), this time we selected the H.265 / HEVC 10bit file. As mentioned earlier, HEVC (highly efficient video codec) requires licensing by the client hardware manufacturer and software provider (with many/most not including it, relying on the hardware to convert the file to H.264 by default). HEVC is much more space efficient than H.264 and alot more media in 2022+ is arriving in this format. However, converting it (aka Transcoding by another name technically) is a demanding task. Here is how the DS423+ and DS923+ performed:

Once again, the Synology DS423+ and it’s Intel Celeron J4125 CPU got the job done with little-to-no fuss, whereas the AMD embedded Ryzen R1600 CPU inside the DS923+ immediately hit 100% CPU Utilization and failed (taking longer to convert the file per second than an actual second!).

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 4K h.264 120Mbps

Next one, time for some 4K PLAYBACK! Now, it is worth highlighting that we ARE looking at quite high-end 4K media here, at 120Mbps – so the odds of you having much media in this format/scale is quite small. Still, 4K TVs and the affordability of 4K media is growing, so we need to test 4K, as well as scale it up for years to come. I wouldn’t normally recommend either of these NAS for 4K Plex use (recommending at least an Intel Pentium, i3 or higher generally), but here is how they performed:

Yep, both NAS devices failed. But again, remember that this is a 120Mbps file. Had we tested 4K at the bitrate of many of the 1080p files, it would have been better. We have some 4K dedicated Plex content coming soon on these NAS devices, so stay tuned!

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 4K h.265 – HEVC 120Mbps

Next we tested the same dense 120Mbps 4K files as before, but in the HEVC version. Again, due to the support of this compression level on each of these Synology NAS being limited, converting the file was needed by default. Here is how the DS423+ and DS923+ NAS performed.

Yep, thanks to the introduction of converting the 4K file being needed, the embedded graphics of the DS423+ CPU saved the day hugely and the result was that although it played (after a small delay) on the Intel-powered DS423+, the DS923+ and ADM Ryzen hit a wall very quickly.

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ Plex NAS Comparison – 4K h.265 – HEVC 200Mbps

Our final test was a 4K file in HEVC, much like the previous test. However this was a HENCH 200Mbps – a herculean task compared with all other tests in this article. Here is the DS423+ and DS923+ tackled the task.

Yep, once again, that Intel J4125 Celeron CPU and it’s integrated graphics was able to get the converting/encoding done on the fly and win here. The AMD embedded Ryzen R1600 COULD have off-line transcoded for sure, but when it came on on-the-fly conversions, it just lacked the right tools on board. Want to watch more tests on either of these NAS drives IN PLEX? You can visit the links below to view the individual Plex Media Server tests for each of the DS423+ and DS923+ NAS. These videos and articles include several more tests and go into more detail on the difference between H.264 and H.265/HEVC media, as well as further 1080p and 4K testing:

Written Plex Test Articles YouTube Plex NAS Test Videos

Synology DS423+ vs DS923+ NAS – Conclusion and Verdict

Comparing the DS423+ from 2023 and DS923+ from late 2022 did seem a little unfair at first, as ALOT can happen in 1.5 years (technology moves FAST!). However, in terms of supporting multimedia, if you are looking at these two NAS drives SPECIFICALLY for Plex Media Server and Multimedia use, the older generation device with its Intel embedded graphics CPU just wins the day over the Embedded Ryzen R1600 from AMD. But either of these NAS devices presents a decent-sized financial investment and I think most users need to think about using them for MORE than just multimedia. Synology has clearly done a lot of thinking in the two years between the release of the DS423+ and DS923+, deciding to change the latter into something more ‘business-y’. When the DS423+ first arrived, it did so to mixed responses (Still 1GbE, an Intel Celeron but an older revision) and it has pretty much always been in the top 5 NAS since its launch for most users in terms of price and ability. Those with longer memories will know that the Diskstation portfolio used to be largely dominated by very much this kind of hardware architecture (i.e a file transfer focused CPU, more memory scaling, optional 10GbE, etc) and rather than building off the design of the 4-Bay DS920+ that came before it, the DS923+ seems to scale itself against the DS1621+. DS1821+ and more in it’s shape and abilities. If you were already looking at Synology NAS systems that being a heavy emphasis on scaling their architecture notably down the line in efforts to remain future proof, the DS923+ is going to tick ALOT of boxes for you. Whereas if you were looking at a Synology NAS for home use, a Plex Media server, low client/user use and generally as more of a setup-and-forget solution, then the DS423+ will likely suit your needs better and will have the added benefit of a more palatable price point in 2022. How far Synology will extend the build logic of the DS923+ towards other solutions in the diskstation/rackstation portfolio still remains to be seen. Most business users will want to opt for the DS923+ though. Cheers for reading!

NAS MODEL ID

Synology DS423+ NAS

Synology DS923+ NAS

Where to Buy:

 

Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

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(UPDATED) Best CPU+Motherboard Combo for Your M-ITX NAS Build – ECC, PCIe Gen 5, 4×4 NVMe and More

Par : Rob Andrews
23 février 2024 à 18:00

CPU and Motherboard Bundles to Build a DiY NAS (UPDATED)

It’s fair to say that the DIY NAS construction journey has seen remarkable simplification over the past ten years. With a variety of custom cases hitting the market, designed to help you create a streamlined personal cloud, and the advent of bundled compact ITX motherboards that streamline the assembly, crafting your own NAS is more accessible than ever. Nonetheless, it’s not entirely plug-and-play; while assembling the hardware has become more straightforward, selecting compatible components remains a technical challenge, often mired in jargon. For those looking to build a NAS tailored to specific needs, whether it’s high performance, media hosting with Plex, business applications, or personal use, I have a few CPU and motherboard pairings to suggest. These combinations are chosen with different user priorities in mind, ensuring that your build-your-own NAS project aligns with your intended use.

In a rush? Let’s Cut to the chase!

If you’re in a rush and simply want to know about the best CPU and motherboard combo to build your best DIY NAS system, below, you can find direct links to each of these bundles that can be purchased predominantly on AliExpress, but some of these options are also available on retailers such as Amazon and Newegg. If you were going to shop at these retailers anyway, why not use the links below as it will ensure that we act as comparers could earn a small fee from these shops. It allows us to keep doing what we do.

 

Here are ALL the Motherboard+CPU Combos that we cover in this article:

  • (The Best) i3-N305 M-ITX BoardCheck AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE and Amazon HERE
  • (x4 m.2 @ Gen 4×4) The Minisforum AR900i CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo ($399) Amazon HERE
  • (Best for PLEX) Erying 13th Gen i9 Combo 14C / 20T $459  HERE
  • (Gen 5 M-ITX) MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard $489 (AliExpress) HERE and $399 (Amazon) HERE
  • (Plex Alternative #1) Erying 12th Gen I9 Combo 14C / 20T $389 HERE
  • (ECC M-ITX Combo) CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Plex Alternative #2) Erying 11th Gen i7 8C / 16T = $262  HERE
  • (Best Storage) X99 Motherboard + 32GB RAM = $158 HERE or E5-2680 V.4 CPU + 32GB RAM = $176  HERE
  • (Best Value) Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $229 HERE
  • (Best Value EXTRA) Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD = $275 HERE
  • AMAZON – Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $169 HERE

ECC CPU+Motherboard M-ITX Combo – The CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS

Spec Highlights4x AMD MobileRyzen Options, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, ECC Supported, 2×M.2 2280 4×2 SSD Slots, PCIe 4×8 connector ×1 (x16 Physical), SFF-8643 x2 Connectors for SATA III, 4x 2.5GbE, USB 4 (20Gbs Limits) , Internal USB 2.0 

CWWK = $488 on AliExpress , TOPTON = $489 on AliExpress and Check on Amazon

The combination of the AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors with the Minisforum motherboard offers a high-performance platform that is particularly suitable for building a Network Attached Storage (NAS) server. The Mini-ITX form factor of the motherboard, compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers, ensures that it can fit into compact NAS cases while providing adequate cooling for the powerful processors housed within. In the realm of NAS servers, storage options and connectivity are key. The motherboard’s two M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots are ideal for high-speed storage drives that can handle intense read and write operations typical in a NAS environment. The inclusion of 2 * SFF-8643 sockets, which support up to four connections each and a total of 9 SATA 3.0, is an advanced feature that provides flexibility and scalability for storage expansion. This is particularly beneficial for NAS setups where large storage pools and redundancy (such as RAID configurations) are important.

Network connectivity is another critical aspect of NAS servers, and this motherboard delivers with its 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer and network redundancy or link aggregation if required. However, the lack of 10GbE port might limit the network throughput if higher speeds are needed, in which case the PCIe Gen 5×16 slot could be employed for an additional network interface card, although this might be considered an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth expansion slot. Lastly, the wide array of USB ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C with a 20Gbps rate and additional USB3.2 and USB2.0 ports, adds to the versatility of this motherboard. The built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets also allow for further expansion and connectivity options, essential for a NAS that may need to accommodate a variety of peripherals or provide additional data transfer interfaces.

Feature Category Specifications
Processor Support Equipped with AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series high-performance processors
Form Factor 17×17 standard Mini-ITX form factor compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers
Expansion Slots 1 PCI-E x16 slot PCIe 4.0 x8 signal supports expansion of graphics card/network card, etc.
Storage 2 * M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots 2280 size
SATA Support 2 * SFF-8643 sockets support one to four via cable and support 9 SATA 3.0
Memory Dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slot supports 5600MHz backward compatibility by default<br>Dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slot supports server-grade ECC notebook strip
Networking 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports support AllinOne and other applications
Video Output HDMI+DP+Type-C triple display output supports 4K@60Hz
USB Ports 3 * USB3.2+1 Type-C (USB4) interface 20Gbps rate<br>Built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets can be connected to the panel through connecting cables<br>Built-in two USB2.0 sockets support U disk encryption and other applications and partial system boot

Given these specifications, the Minisforum motherboard with an AMD Ryzen processor is well-equipped for a NAS server build, offering a balance of processing power, high-speed storage capabilities, and robust connectivity options.

Where to Buy the CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($489 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon HERE

Best Gen 5 CPU+Motherboard Combo – MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard

Spec Highlights – BD770i-AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX, 8 Cores/16 Threads (5.1 GHz) OR BD790i-AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX, 16 Cores/32 Threads (up to 5.4 GHz), SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2 Max 64GB, 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots, PCIe 5.0 X16 connector, 1x 2.5GbE and Lack of SATA! $489 on AliExpress and $399 on Amazon

The Minisforum BD770i and BD790i motherboard and CPU combo represents a cutting-edge solution for enthusiasts and professionals seeking powerful performance in a small footprint. With the BD770i featuring the AMD Ryzen™ 7 7745HX and the BD790i equipped with the AMD Ryzen™ 9 7945HX, these systems offer unparalleled processing power that caters to a wide range of demanding tasks, from advanced computational workloads to intensive multitasking scenarios. The AMD Radeon™ 610M GPU, integrated into both models, while not designed for high-end gaming, capably supports everyday graphics needs, including casual gaming, video streaming, and content creation, making this combo a versatile choice for various computing needs.

The inclusion of PCIe 5.0 support stands out as a significant advantage, offering double the bandwidth of its predecessor, PCIe 4.0. This enhancement ensures that users can take advantage of the fastest available SSDs and expansion cards, dramatically reducing load times and facilitating quicker data access. This forward-thinking feature ensures that the system is prepared to handle future technological advancements, making it a wise investment for tech enthusiasts looking to stay ahead of the curve. However, it’s important to note the absence of traditional SATA ports, which means users with SATA drives will need to consider alternatives such as SATA M.2 adapters or adding a PCIe card to accommodate these devices. This requirement might necessitate additional planning and investment for those who wish to integrate existing storage solutions into their new setup.

Specification BD770i BD790i
Processor AMD Ryzen™ 7 7745HX, 8 Cores/16 Threads<br>(32M Cache, up to 5.1 GHz) AMD Ryzen™ 9 7945HX, 16 Cores/32 Threads<br>(64M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz)
GPU AMD Radeon™ 610M AMD Radeon™ 610M
Memory DDR5 Dual channel<br>(SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5200 MT/s, Max 64GB) DDR5 Dual channel<br>(SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5200 MT/s, Max 64GB)
Storage 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots
Expansion Slot PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1 PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1
Wireless Connectivity M.2 2230 Key E Slot M.2 2230 Key E Slot
Video Output HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1 HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1
Audio Output HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1<br>Line Out ×1 HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1<br>Line Out ×1
Ethernet RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1 RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1
USB Ports USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP)<br>USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port ×2<br>USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2 USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP)<br>USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port ×2<br>USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2
I/O Ports 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1<br>4-pin System Fan header ×2<br>4-pin SSD Fan header ×1<br>USB 3.2 Gen 1 header ×1<br>Front Panel Audio header ×1<br>System Panel header ×1 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1<br>4-pin System Fan header ×2<br>4-pin SSD Fan header ×1<br>USB 3.2 Gen 1 header ×1<br>Front Panel Audio header ×1<br>System Panel header ×1
Form Factor Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170x1.6mm) Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170x1.6mm)

A notable constraint in this powerful combo is the provision of a single RJ45 2.5G Ethernet port. While this port offers a solid network connection suitable for most applications, users with specialized networking needs or those looking to expand their network connectivity may find this limitation challenging. The necessity to potentially use the high-speed PCIe 5.0 slot for a network interface card upgrade, just to augment networking capabilities, could be seen as an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth resource. This situation highlights a trade-off between the advanced PCIe support and the flexibility in networking expansion, prompting users to carefully consider their priorities when planning their system configuration.

Despite these considerations, the overall package offered by the Minisforum BD770i and BD790i is compelling. The combination of cutting-edge CPU performance, robust PCIe 5.0 support, and a variety of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 ports and multiple video outputs, provides a solid foundation for a high-performance, compact computing solution. #

Furthermore, the support for up to 64GB of DDR5 memory and the inclusion of two M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 SSD slots offer ample room for memory and storage expansion, enhancing the system’s capability to handle future needs. This blend of high-end features, coupled with the Mini-ITX form factor’s space efficiency, makes the BD770i and BD790i an attractive option for users seeking a powerful, yet manageable, computing platform.

 

Where to Buy the MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($489 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon ($399) HERE

 


Best CPU+ Motherboard for a Premium Feature but Low Power Consumption NAS – The i3-N305 M-ITX Board

Spec Highlights – i3-N305, 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G Nics, 2x M.2 NVMe. 6x SATA, 1*DDR5 SODIMM, HDMI2.0 + DP – $289 on AliExpress

Currently, the “build your own” favorite across many forums, the new Intel N305 processor, an 8-core, eight-thread i3 processor, comes pre-installed on a Mini-ITX board. It not only provides a remarkably low 7-watt TDP when needed but also offers significant scalability in terms of both clock speed and power efficiency. The $289 N305 version of the CPU and Motherboard combo presents a practical and economical choice for commercial use (making it the perfect upgrade/alternative to the Topton N6005 / N5105 that was so popular last year for first time NAS DiY’ers). It is equipped with the Intel® Core™ i3-N305 Processor, which is a part of the Alder Lake-N series. This processor boasts eight cores and eight threads, with a max turbo frequency of 3.80 GHz, offering ample computing power for everyday tasks and certain commercial applications. The processor is fabricated using Intel 7 lithography technology, which is indicative of its advanced and efficient design.

Memory support on this combination is versatile, with the motherboard supporting a SO-DIMM DDR5 memory slot, compatible with frequencies of 4800/5200/5600MHz. Although the processor supports a maximum memory size of 16 GB, which is a consideration to keep in mind, the motherboard can handle up to 32 GB, potentially allowing for future upgrades if the board’s capacity is indeed supported by later CPU models or firmware updates.

The integrated graphics, Intel® UHD Graphics with 32 Execution Units, can dynamically operate at up to 1.25 GHz and support 4K content at 60Hz, making it suitable for high-definition displays and basic graphical tasks. Here’s the specification of the $289 N305 version of the CPU+Motherboard combo:

Specification Detail
Model Number NAS-N100-N305
Processor Brand Intel
Processor Models Intel® Alder Lake-N i3-N305 (up to 3.8 GHz)
Type MINI PC / PC Stick
Origin Mainland China
Brand Name YSJMNPC
Use Commercial
Memory – Support notebook DDR5 technology
– 1 SO-DIMM DDR5 slot
– Compatible with 4800/5200/5600MHz
– Max capacity: 32GB
Storage – 6 x SATA3.0 6Gb/s interface
– 2 x M.2 NVMe 2280
Graphics Card Integrated Card (depending on processor model)
Network Card 4 x Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 network port
I/O Panel – 2 x USB 2.0
– 1 x USB 3.0
– 1 x Type-C (2.0 rate)
– 1 x HDMI
– 1 x DP
– 4 x RJ45 2.5G network port
– 1 x AUDIO 3.5mm interface
Motherboard Features – Matte black PCB
– Moisture-free fiber 8-layer circuit
– Full protection (USB, audio, network)
TDP 9-15W
Structure MINI-ITX (17.0cm x 17.0cm)
Capacitor Design All solid capacitor
Expansion Slots 1 PCIe x1 (shared with 2nd M.2)
Onboard Interface – F_PANEL pin
– TPM pin (compatible with ASUS TPM module)
– USB2.0 pin
– CPU_FAN 4-pin (temperature control)
– SYS_FAN 4-pin (temperature control)
– 24+4 ATX power interface
Cooling – Compatible with 115X radiators
– Silent temperature-controlled radiator
– Support for two high-performance radiators

In terms of connectivity, the combo is well-equipped with a variety of interfaces, including multiple USB ports with different standards, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4 for video output, and an Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 network port for fast wired internet connections.

The inclusion of PCIe lanes and M.2 slots provides additional expansion capabilities, allowing for further customization and the addition of peripherals or storage solutions. The motherboard’s MINI-ITX form factor makes it a compact solution that can fit into small cases, suitable for workspaces with limited room. EASILY the easiest choice of all the NAS Mobo+CPU options on this list, as one of the newest, lowest in price – yet impressively powerful, despite its lower TDP.

Where to Buy the i3-N305 CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon HERE

Best CPU+ Motherboard+ Memory Combo for a Business File Server – The X99 Motherboard Kit (ITX)

Spec Highlights – Business X99 Motherboard Combo ITX LGA2011, C612 for NAS Router+File Server, 6×2.5GbE I226, 10xSATA, 1x M.2 (OS), 14Core / 28 Thread Intel Xeon E5-V3 V4- $176 on AliExpress

This combination is ideal for business users needing power and scalability. The X99 motherboard with an older Xeon CPU balances performance, connectivity, and storage expansion. It supports 10 SATA drives and a M.2 NVMe slot, alongside 15 gigabits of network bandwidth across six 2.5G Ethernet ports. The NAS CPU+Memory combo anchored by the Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 is a robust solution for a NAS file server. The CPU’s 14 cores and 28 threads are engineered for multitasking and can efficiently manage the demands of multiple simultaneous data transactions, which is a common requirement in NAS setups. The motherboard’s ten SATA ports and an M.2 NVMe slot offer versatile and ample storage options, facilitating both high-capacity and high-speed data storage solutions. This combination of CPU power and storage flexibility makes it an excellent choice for a NAS system.

owever, the Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processor’s launch date in Q1’16 might give pause to some users considering the latest advancements in processor technology. While newer CPUs may offer improved power efficiency and the benefit of ongoing support from Intel, the E5-2680 v4 still holds its ground as a reliable workhorse. Its architecture, although not the newest, delivers steadfast performance which, alongside its competitive pricing, presents an exceptional value proposition for budget-conscious setups or where cutting-edge efficiency is not the primary concern.

Specification Details
Processor Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4, 14 cores, up to 3.30 GHz Turbo
Chipset Intel C612
Memory Support 2x DDR4 DIMM slots, up to 64 GB, supports ECC
Storage Options 1x M.2 NVMe, 10x SATA Ports
Expansion 1x PCIe 3.0 x16
Network 6x Intel i226 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
Power Supply ATX 24 Pin + 8 Pin
Video Output VGA
RAID Support RAID 0/1/5/10
Form Factor Mini-ITX, CEB
Socket Type LGA 2011-3
Launch Date 2013
LAN Speed Up to 2500Mbps
Audio 2.1 Channels

In essence, for organizations or users seeking a cost-effective yet powerful NAS solution, this CPU and motherboard combo remains compelling. The Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4, despite its age, is a testament to enduring performance in server environments. Users leveraging this processor for a NAS will find it to be a cost-effective solution that capably handles storage demands, making it an excellent value for its price point. To explore more about this processor’s capabilities and see how it might fit into your NAS plans, you can visit the Intel specifications page.

Where to Buy the X99 ITX Motherboard Combo in 3 Configs Here:
  • Check AliExpress:
  • X99 Motherboard +  E5-2680 V.4 CPU = $129  HERE
  • X99 Motherboard + 32GB RAM = $158 HERE
  • X99 Motherboard +  E5-2680 V.4 CPU + 32GB RAM = $176  HERE


Best CPU+ Motherboard for High Speed M.2 NVMe Slots + PLEX – The Erying 13900HK CPU+Mobo Combo

Spec Highlights – ERYING DIY ITX Desktop Motherboard Set with Onboard 14 Core / 20 Thread CPU i9-13900HK, 3x M.2 NVMe (Gen 4 and Gen 3), PCIe 4×8 Slot, 2.5G+1G Port, USB-C, DDR5 Memory $419 on AliExpress

Designed for NAS builders focusing on media servers or intensive computing tasks. The Erying i9 combo, equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core processor and a Mini-ITX motherboard, features three M.2 NVMe slots and is optimized for graphic-intensive operations. It’s ideal for Plex servers and virtualization.

The Intel Core i9-13900HK processor bundled with this motherboard is a top-tier choice for a NAS setup, especially for a Plex Media Server. Its high-speed multi-core performance, reaching up to 5.40 GHz with Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology, is ideal for on-the-fly transcoding, ensuring seamless media streaming across devices. This is particularly beneficial for users who require their NAS to handle high-resolution video transcoding, a task that the i9-13900HK can manage with ease due to its robust processing capabilities and advanced integrated graphics.

The motherboard’s triple M.2 NVMe slots are a game-changer for NAS configurations, offering not just ample storage potential but also blistering data access speeds. NVMe technology excels in high-demand scenarios, such as multiple simultaneous accesses to the NAS, which is common in VM / Container environments. Users can leverage these slots to set up a RAID configuration, allowing for either performance enhancement through striping or data redundancy for added security.

 

Moreover, the Intel Core i9-13900HK comes with Intel’s UHD Graphics, which supports 4K resolution at 60Hz over HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. This graphical prowess, in combination with the processor’s ability to support fast memory, adds to the NAS’s capability as a potent media server that can handle 4K content playback and transcoding without breaking a sweat.

Specification Detail
Processor 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HK, up to 5.40 GHz
Graphics Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Memory Support DDR5, 2 slots, up to 96GB
Storage Options 3x M.2 slots (NVMe), 2x SATA 3 Ports
Expansion Slots 1x PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x PCIe 4.0 x8
Network 2x Onboard RJ45, WiFi
Audio 5.1 Channels
Back I/O Ports 2x USB 3.2/3.1 Gen 1, DisplayPort, 4x USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0, 3x Audio Jacks
USB Support USB 2.0, USB 3.0
RAID Support No
Form Factor Mini-ITX
Chipset Intel Others
Socket Type Onboard CPU
Brand Name ERYING
Origin Mainland China
Certifications RoHS, FCC, CE

Finally, while this CPU+Motherboard combo is positioned as an advanced solution for NAS setups, its high-end specifications suggest that it is overqualified for just storage purposes. The presence of the latest connectivity options, robust I/O support, and high-bandwidth LAN ports make it well-suited for a variety of other intensive applications, including gaming, content creation, and design. This versatility ensures that the investment in such a setup can be justified across multiple use cases beyond a typical NAS. For detailed processor specifications and capabilities, further information can be explored on Intel’s official product specifications page.

Bottom Line, there are going to be users who are looking at how expensive ‘turnkey’ NAS solutions can cost, then see what just the hardware parts would cost in a DiY alternative. For example, below is the cost of a fully specced out QNAP Intel Core build vs the cost fo JUST the CPU and Motherboard in the Erying board:

Needless to say, this is not a completely fair comparison. The QNAP includes all the building, the software, the PSU, cables, case, testing and all under a single warranty. Still, it IS food for thought for those that are happy to build their own NAS and save some $$$s.

Where to Buy the Erying Intel Mobo Combo (3 Versions):
  • Check AliExpress:
  • Erying 13th Gen i9 Combo 14C / 20T $459  HERE
  • Erying 12th Gen I9 Combo 14C / 20T $389 HERE
  • Erying 11th Gen i7 8C / 16T = $262  HERE

C = Cores , T = Threads


Best POWER + Storage CPU+Motherboard M-ITX Combo – The Intel 13th Gen The Minisforum AR900i (4x M.2 4×4 and 5×16 PCIe)

Spec HighlightsIntel® Core™ i9-13900HX Processor, 24 C/32 T (36M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz) Intel® UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, up to 5600 MT/s, Max 64GB, 4×M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 x4, SSD Slots PCIe 5.0 X16 connector, 1x 2.5GbE and Lack of SATA AGAIN!   Check on AliExpress and $399 on Amazon

The Minisforum AR900i motherboard, in combination with the potent Intel® Core™ i9-13900HX CPU, forms a formidable base for power users. The AR900i is a Mobile Desktop (MoDT) motherboard that leverages the might of the 13th Gen Intel® flagship CPU, providing an exceptional 24 cores and 32 threads for heavy multitasking and demanding applications. Notably, the four M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD slots are designed for rapid storage with RAID capabilities, reflecting a setup intended for high-speed operations and data security. The motherboard’s inclusion of SFF-8643 connectors represents an innovative shift away from static SATA ports, offering a dynamic and scalable solution for storage expansion. This approach is particularly beneficial for custom builds that require a neat cable management system and the flexibility to adjust storage configurations with ease. The PCIe 5.0 X16 slot on this motherboard is a forward-thinking feature, catering to the latest and most powerful GPUs and ensuring that the system is ready for the next generation of graphics and expansion cards.

However, it’s important to consider the networking capabilities of the AR900i. With only a single RJ45 2.5G Ethernet port, users who need enhanced networking may have to invest in a PCIe 5.0 compatible NIC, potentially sacrificing the valuable high-speed slot that could be used for other high-performance components. This choice underscores the need to balance the motherboard’s impressive storage and expansion capabilities with networking needs. The AR900i represents Minisforum’s dedication to compact, high-performance computing solutions. With support for triple-screen displays up to 8K, built-in AX210 wireless card for WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, this motherboard offers comprehensive connectivity options for a variety of uses, from gaming to professional creative workstations.

Specification Category Details
Processor Intel® Core™ i9-13900HX, 24 Cores/32 Threads (36M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz)
GPU Intel® UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors
Chipset Intel® HM770 Chipset
Memory DDR5 Dual channel (SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5600 MT/s, Max 64GB)
Storage 4×M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD Slots
Expansion Slot PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1
Wireless Connectivity M.2 2230 Key E Slot
Video Output HDMI2.0 ×1, DisplayPort1.4 ×1, USB-C ×1
Audio Output HDMI2.0 ×1, DisplayPort1.4 ×1, USB-C ×1, Line Out ×1
Ethernet RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1
USB Ports USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP), USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A Port ×2, USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2
I/O Ports 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1, 4-pin System Fan header ×2, 4-pin SSD Fan header ×1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 header ×1, Front Panel Audio header ×1, System Panel header ×1
Form Factor Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170mm)

The Intel® Core i9-13900HX processor, with its 24 cores and 32 threads, is a powerhouse suitable for a DIY NAS setup geared towards enthusiasts and professionals requiring robust performance for tasks such as media transcoding, file serving, and hosting complex databases. The processor’s 36M cache and peak speeds of up to 5.4 GHz ensure that multiple operations can be handled efficiently, supporting a smooth and responsive network storage experience. The addition of Intel UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors also allows for hardware-accelerated video encoding and decoding, which can be a significant advantage for a NAS serving as a media server. In terms of memory, the system’s support for DDR5 dual-channel RAM, with speeds up to 5600 MT/s and a maximum capacity of 64GB, provides ample bandwidth and storage for running a NAS operating system along with any additional services. This is particularly important for a NAS that may be handling simultaneous data-intensive tasks. The four M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD slots offer high-speed storage options, ideal for caching or fast data access needs, enhancing the overall performance and speed of the NAS.

The connectivity options of this setup are also noteworthy. The motherboard’s Mini-ITX form factor is well-suited for NAS builds, where space efficiency is often a priority. The inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 X16 expansion slot allows for additional upgrades, such as adding a dedicated network interface card for improved network throughput or additional storage controllers if the four M.2 slots are insufficient. The onboard 2.5G Ethernet port provides a faster-than-gigabit connection, beneficial for transferring large files over the network. With a comprehensive range of I/O ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 and USB-C, the system can accommodate a variety of peripherals and external drives, making it a versatile choice for a DIY NAS setup.

 

Where to Buy the Intel 13th Gen i9 The Minisforum AR900i CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon ($399 NOW) HERE

 

 



Best Cheap CPU+MoBo+SSD+RAM Combo – The Topton N6005 CPU+Mobo Combo

Spec Highlights – Topton NAS Motherboard N6005, 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G Nics, Dual M.2 NVMe, Six SATA3.0, 2*DDR4 SODIMM, HDMI2.0, Mini ITX / M-ITX- $261 on AliExpress ($399 for 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB M.2 NVMe Included – see image below)

The Topton N6005 combo offers excellent value, combining an Intel Pentium N6005 processor, motherboard, 16GB RAM, and an NVMe OS SSD. Its popularity stems from its low cost and high performance, suitable for a variety of DIY NAS builds.

Component Specification
CPU Integrated Jasper Lake Intel Celeron N6005
RAM 2x SO-DIMM DDR4 slots, up to 64GB (2400/2666/2933MHz)
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 2280 slots (PCIe 3.0 x1), 6x SATA 3.0 ports
Network 4x Intel i226-V 2.5Gbps network interfaces
Form Factor Mini-ITX (17.0 cm x 17.0 cm)
System Support Microsoft® Windows 10/11 64-bit, Linux
Main Characteristics – Matte Black PCB
– High-density moisture-proof fiber circuit board
– Full protection (USB, audio source, network interface)
GPU Integrated Intel UHD Graphics (24EUs for N5105, 32EUs for N6005)
IO Ports 2x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x DP
LAN 4x RJ-45 2.5G NET
Additional Features – Auto power-on, Wake-On-LAN, PXE support
Structure Solid Capacitor Design

Priced at $261 on AliExpress, and $399 when bundled with 32GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD, the Topton N6005 motherboard combo stands out for its affordability. This price point makes it an accessible entry for enthusiasts and professionals alike who are looking to build a high-performance NAS without incurring exorbitant costs. The inclusion of substantial RAM and fast NVMe storage in the bundle further adds to the value, offering what one might need for a robust NAS setup at a price that challenges many competitors in the market.

The CPU, an Intel Celeron N6005, is a Jasper Lake processor that strikes a balance between efficiency and capability. With a base frequency of 2.0 GHz and a burst frequency of up to 2.9 GHz across its four cores, it’s engineered to handle the multitasking demands of a NAS system. The 10W TDP reflects a design optimized for low power consumption, making it an economical choice for 24/7 operation, a critical consideration for NAS systems which are expected to be always on.

On the storage front, the Topton N6005 shines with two M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 x1 2280 slots for high-speed data transfer and six SATA3 6Gb/s ports for ample storage capacity. This allows users to install fast NVMe drives for the operating system and frequently accessed files, while the SATA ports can host larger hard drives for bulk storage. Such a combination is perfect for a NAS system, providing quick access to data and large storage pools for backup, media libraries, or network file sharing. If you are considering the Topton N6005 CPU+Motherboard combination for PLEX Media Server, I made a dedicated video on this using this CPU/Mobo in the Jobsno N2 NAS Case below, testing 4K Multimedia:

The Topton N6005 has garnered popularity among NAS builders for several reasons. It offers a mini-ITX form factor, which is ideal for compact builds, and includes four 2.5Gbps Intel i226-V network interfaces, enhancing its functionality as a home or small office server. Additionally, the CPU’s support for up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM means it can handle more demanding NAS tasks, such as running virtual machines or hosting databases. These features, coupled with its energy efficiency and expandability, make the Topton N6005 a sought-after component for building versatile and powerful NAS systems.

Where to Buy the TopTon N6005 Motherboard
  • Check AliExpress:
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $229 HERE
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD = $275 HERE
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 32GB RAM + 1TB SSD = $399 HERE
  • AMAZON – Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $169 HERE


Disclaimer – The Jonsbo N1, N2 and N3 are STILL the Best NAS Enclosures

Jonsbo’s range of NAS enclosures stands out as an industry benchmark for those keen on custom desktop NAS builds. These enclosures seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality, showcasing a meticulous design ethos that addresses both the visual and technical demands of modern users. The build quality is exceptional, employing high-grade materials that not only ensure durability but also aid in efficient heat dissipation, a critical factor for continuous NAS operations. Furthermore, Jonsbo has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach by incorporating features that cater to future expansion and adaptability. Their user-friendly design ensures easy installation and maintenance, making them a preferred choice for both novices and seasoned builders. Backed by positive user reviews and a reputation for reliability, Jonsbo NAS enclosures are, without a doubt, one of the best investments for those aiming to craft a high-performance, custom desktop NAS system.

Jonsbo N1 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $96

Jonsbo N2 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $89

Jonsbo N3 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $92


Recommended Add-ons and Extras to Remember for Your DiY NAS Build

Building a NAS involves more than just the CPU and motherboard; enclosures, memory, PSUs, and other accessories are essential. Future guides will detail these components, alongside recommendations for smaller, crucial accessories to enhance your DIY NAS server’s functionality.

 

M.2-to-6xSATA Adapter ($10-15) – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

PCie Card to Add 4x M.2 to Your Mobo $20-50 (Check Lane/Speed of Mobo and Compatibility First) – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

Compatible CPU Cooler (CPU Dependant)  $25-50- HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

SATA Fan Out Cable – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com


Here is our article on the BEST (and worst) NAS Enclosures and Cases you can find on AliExpress for your DiY NAS Build. Click the banner below to read the article, alternatively, you can watch the detailed video HERE. Alternatively, you can watch a video on the best and worst NAS enclosures on Amazon here instead.


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The Best CPU+Motherboard Combo for Your NAS Build – 2024 Edition

Par : Rob Andrews
9 février 2024 à 15:00

The Best CPU and Motherboard Bundle to Build a DiY NAS (UPDATED)

I think it would be an understatement to say that building your own NAS system from scratch has gotten easier every year for about the last decade! From custom cases that have rolled out from numerous brands that allow you to genuinely build a compact personal cloud, to more efficient processes and compact ITX motherboards arriving as bundles that really simplify the entire build process, it really has never been easier to build your own NAS than right now! However, there is also still no avoiding that it’s hardly a turnkey process and as easy as the physical work is to build the device these days, the complexity that goes into choosing the right components and making sure they work together is as frustrating and tech deep speak covered as always! So today I want to recommend several CPU plus motherboard to your perfect type performance NAS server. Each one focuses on a different priority of user for their own personal NAS server, from performance to Plex, or from business to pleasure! Here are Four NAS motherboard and CPU combos that I recommend for your BYO NAS project!

In a rush? Let’s Cut to the chase!

If you’re in a rush and simply want to know about the best CPU and motherboard combo to build your best DIY NAS system, below, you can find direct links to each of these bundles that can be purchased predominantly on AliExpress, but some of these options are also available on retailers such as Amazon and Newegg. If you were going to shop at these retailers anyway, why not use the links below as it will ensure that we act as comparers could earn a small fee from these shops. It allows us to keep doing what we do.

 

Here are ALL the Motherboard+CPU Combos that we cover in this article:

  • (The Best) i3-N305 M-ITX BoardCheck AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE and Amazon HERE
  • (x4 m.2 @ Gen 4×4) The Minisforum AR900i CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo ($399) Amazon HERE
  • (Best for PLEX) Erying 13th Gen i9 Combo 14C / 20T $459  HERE
  • (Gen 5 M-ITX) MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard $489 (AliExpress) HERE and $399 (Amazon) HERE
  • (Plex Alternative #1) Erying 12th Gen I9 Combo 14C / 20T $389 HERE
  • (ECC M-ITX Combo) CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Plex Alternative #2) Erying 11th Gen i7 8C / 16T = $262  HERE
  • (Best Storage) X99 Motherboard + 32GB RAM = $158 HERE or E5-2680 V.4 CPU + 32GB RAM = $176  HERE
  • (Best Value) Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $229 HERE
  • (Best Value EXTRA) Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD = $275 HERE
  • AMAZON – Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $169 HERE

Best Gen 5 CPU+Motherboard Combo – MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard

Spec Highlights – BD770i-AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX, 8 Cores/16 Threads (5.1 GHz) OR BD790i-AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX, 16 Cores/32 Threads (up to 5.4 GHz), SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2 Max 64GB, 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots, PCIe 5.0 X16 connector, 1x 2.5GbE and Lack of SATA! $489 on AliExpress and $399 on Amazon

The Minisforum BD770i and BD790i motherboard and CPU combo represents a cutting-edge solution for enthusiasts and professionals seeking powerful performance in a small footprint. With the BD770i featuring the AMD Ryzen™ 7 7745HX and the BD790i equipped with the AMD Ryzen™ 9 7945HX, these systems offer unparalleled processing power that caters to a wide range of demanding tasks, from advanced computational workloads to intensive multitasking scenarios. The AMD Radeon™ 610M GPU, integrated into both models, while not designed for high-end gaming, capably supports everyday graphics needs, including casual gaming, video streaming, and content creation, making this combo a versatile choice for various computing needs.

The inclusion of PCIe 5.0 support stands out as a significant advantage, offering double the bandwidth of its predecessor, PCIe 4.0. This enhancement ensures that users can take advantage of the fastest available SSDs and expansion cards, dramatically reducing load times and facilitating quicker data access. This forward-thinking feature ensures that the system is prepared to handle future technological advancements, making it a wise investment for tech enthusiasts looking to stay ahead of the curve. However, it’s important to note the absence of traditional SATA ports, which means users with SATA drives will need to consider alternatives such as SATA M.2 adapters or adding a PCIe card to accommodate these devices. This requirement might necessitate additional planning and investment for those who wish to integrate existing storage solutions into their new setup.

Specification BD770i BD790i
Processor AMD Ryzen™ 7 7745HX, 8 Cores/16 Threads<br>(32M Cache, up to 5.1 GHz) AMD Ryzen™ 9 7945HX, 16 Cores/32 Threads<br>(64M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz)
GPU AMD Radeon™ 610M AMD Radeon™ 610M
Memory DDR5 Dual channel<br>(SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5200 MT/s, Max 64GB) DDR5 Dual channel<br>(SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5200 MT/s, Max 64GB)
Storage 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots 2×M.2 2280 PCIe5.0 SSD Slots
Expansion Slot PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1 PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1
Wireless Connectivity M.2 2230 Key E Slot M.2 2230 Key E Slot
Video Output HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1 HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1
Audio Output HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1<br>Line Out ×1 HDMI2.0 ×1<br>DisplayPort1.4 ×1<br>USB-C ×1<br>Line Out ×1
Ethernet RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1 RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1
USB Ports USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP)<br>USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port ×2<br>USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2 USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP)<br>USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port ×2<br>USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2
I/O Ports 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1<br>4-pin System Fan header ×2<br>4-pin SSD Fan header ×1<br>USB 3.2 Gen 1 header ×1<br>Front Panel Audio header ×1<br>System Panel header ×1 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1<br>4-pin System Fan header ×2<br>4-pin SSD Fan header ×1<br>USB 3.2 Gen 1 header ×1<br>Front Panel Audio header ×1<br>System Panel header ×1
Form Factor Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170x1.6mm) Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170x1.6mm)

A notable constraint in this powerful combo is the provision of a single RJ45 2.5G Ethernet port. While this port offers a solid network connection suitable for most applications, users with specialized networking needs or those looking to expand their network connectivity may find this limitation challenging. The necessity to potentially use the high-speed PCIe 5.0 slot for a network interface card upgrade, just to augment networking capabilities, could be seen as an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth resource. This situation highlights a trade-off between the advanced PCIe support and the flexibility in networking expansion, prompting users to carefully consider their priorities when planning their system configuration.

Despite these considerations, the overall package offered by the Minisforum BD770i and BD790i is compelling. The combination of cutting-edge CPU performance, robust PCIe 5.0 support, and a variety of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 ports and multiple video outputs, provides a solid foundation for a high-performance, compact computing solution. #

Furthermore, the support for up to 64GB of DDR5 memory and the inclusion of two M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 SSD slots offer ample room for memory and storage expansion, enhancing the system’s capability to handle future needs. This blend of high-end features, coupled with the Mini-ITX form factor’s space efficiency, makes the BD770i and BD790i an attractive option for users seeking a powerful, yet manageable, computing platform.

 

Where to Buy the MINISFORUM BD770i ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($489 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon ($399) HERE

 


Best CPU+ Motherboard for a Premium Feature but Low Power Consumption NAS – The i3-N305 M-ITX Board

Spec Highlights – i3-N305, 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G Nics, 2x M.2 NVMe. 6x SATA, 1*DDR5 SODIMM, HDMI2.0 + DP – $289 on AliExpress

Currently, the “build your own” favorite across many forums, the new Intel N305 processor, an 8-core, eight-thread i3 processor, comes pre-installed on a Mini-ITX board. It not only provides a remarkably low 7-watt TDP when needed but also offers significant scalability in terms of both clock speed and power efficiency. The $289 N305 version of the CPU and Motherboard combo presents a practical and economical choice for commercial use (making it the perfect upgrade/alternative to the Topton N6005 / N5105 that was so popular last year for first time NAS DiY’ers). It is equipped with the Intel® Core™ i3-N305 Processor, which is a part of the Alder Lake-N series. This processor boasts eight cores and eight threads, with a max turbo frequency of 3.80 GHz, offering ample computing power for everyday tasks and certain commercial applications. The processor is fabricated using Intel 7 lithography technology, which is indicative of its advanced and efficient design.

Memory support on this combination is versatile, with the motherboard supporting a SO-DIMM DDR5 memory slot, compatible with frequencies of 4800/5200/5600MHz. Although the processor supports a maximum memory size of 16 GB, which is a consideration to keep in mind, the motherboard can handle up to 32 GB, potentially allowing for future upgrades if the board’s capacity is indeed supported by later CPU models or firmware updates.

The integrated graphics, Intel® UHD Graphics with 32 Execution Units, can dynamically operate at up to 1.25 GHz and support 4K content at 60Hz, making it suitable for high-definition displays and basic graphical tasks. Here’s the specification of the $289 N305 version of the CPU+Motherboard combo:

Specification Detail
Model Number NAS-N100-N305
Processor Brand Intel
Processor Models Intel® Alder Lake-N i3-N305 (up to 3.8 GHz)
Type MINI PC / PC Stick
Origin Mainland China
Brand Name YSJMNPC
Use Commercial
Memory – Support notebook DDR5 technology
– 1 SO-DIMM DDR5 slot
– Compatible with 4800/5200/5600MHz
– Max capacity: 32GB
Storage – 6 x SATA3.0 6Gb/s interface
– 2 x M.2 NVMe 2280
Graphics Card Integrated Card (depending on processor model)
Network Card 4 x Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 network port
I/O Panel – 2 x USB 2.0
– 1 x USB 3.0
– 1 x Type-C (2.0 rate)
– 1 x HDMI
– 1 x DP
– 4 x RJ45 2.5G network port
– 1 x AUDIO 3.5mm interface
Motherboard Features – Matte black PCB
– Moisture-free fiber 8-layer circuit
– Full protection (USB, audio, network)
TDP 9-15W
Structure MINI-ITX (17.0cm x 17.0cm)
Capacitor Design All solid capacitor
Expansion Slots 1 PCIe x1 (shared with 2nd M.2)
Onboard Interface – F_PANEL pin
– TPM pin (compatible with ASUS TPM module)
– USB2.0 pin
– CPU_FAN 4-pin (temperature control)
– SYS_FAN 4-pin (temperature control)
– 24+4 ATX power interface
Cooling – Compatible with 115X radiators
– Silent temperature-controlled radiator
– Support for two high-performance radiators

In terms of connectivity, the combo is well-equipped with a variety of interfaces, including multiple USB ports with different standards, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4 for video output, and an Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 network port for fast wired internet connections.

The inclusion of PCIe lanes and M.2 slots provides additional expansion capabilities, allowing for further customization and the addition of peripherals or storage solutions. The motherboard’s MINI-ITX form factor makes it a compact solution that can fit into small cases, suitable for workspaces with limited room. EASILY the easiest choice of all the NAS Mobo+CPU options on this list, as one of the newest, lowest in price – yet impressively powerful, despite its lower TDP.

Where to Buy the i3-N305 CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon HERE

ECC CPU+Motherboard M-ITX Combo – The CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS

Spec Highlights4x AMD MobileRyzen Options, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, ECC Supported, 2×M.2 2280 4×2 SSD Slots, PCIe 4×8 connector ×1 (x16 Physical), SFF-8643 x2 Connectors for SATA III, 4x 2.5GbE, USB 4 (20Gbs Limits) , Internal USB 2.0  $489 on AliExpress and Check on Amazon

The combination of the AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors with the Minisforum motherboard offers a high-performance platform that is particularly suitable for building a Network Attached Storage (NAS) server. The Mini-ITX form factor of the motherboard, compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers, ensures that it can fit into compact NAS cases while providing adequate cooling for the powerful processors housed within. In the realm of NAS servers, storage options and connectivity are key. The motherboard’s two M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots are ideal for high-speed storage drives that can handle intense read and write operations typical in a NAS environment. The inclusion of 2 * SFF-8643 sockets, which support up to four connections each and a total of 9 SATA 3.0, is an advanced feature that provides flexibility and scalability for storage expansion. This is particularly beneficial for NAS setups where large storage pools and redundancy (such as RAID configurations) are important.

Network connectivity is another critical aspect of NAS servers, and this motherboard delivers with its 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer and network redundancy or link aggregation if required. However, the lack of 10GbE port might limit the network throughput if higher speeds are needed, in which case the PCIe Gen 5×16 slot could be employed for an additional network interface card, although this might be considered an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth expansion slot. Lastly, the wide array of USB ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C with a 20Gbps rate and additional USB3.2 and USB2.0 ports, adds to the versatility of this motherboard. The built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets also allow for further expansion and connectivity options, essential for a NAS that may need to accommodate a variety of peripherals or provide additional data transfer interfaces.

Feature Category Specifications
Processor Support Equipped with AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series high-performance processors
Form Factor 17×17 standard Mini-ITX form factor compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers
Expansion Slots 1 PCI-E x16 slot PCIe 4.0 x8 signal supports expansion of graphics card/network card, etc.
Storage 2 * M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots 2280 size
SATA Support 2 * SFF-8643 sockets support one to four via cable and support 9 SATA 3.0
Memory Dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slot supports 5600MHz backward compatibility by default<br>Dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slot supports server-grade ECC notebook strip
Networking 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports support AllinOne and other applications
Video Output HDMI+DP+Type-C triple display output supports 4K@60Hz
USB Ports 3 * USB3.2+1 Type-C (USB4) interface 20Gbps rate<br>Built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets can be connected to the panel through connecting cables<br>Built-in two USB2.0 sockets support U disk encryption and other applications and partial system boot

Given these specifications, the Minisforum motherboard with an AMD Ryzen processor is well-equipped for a NAS server build, offering a balance of processing power, high-speed storage capabilities, and robust connectivity options.

Where to Buy the CWWK 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7735HS/7840HS/8845HS/7940HS Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($489 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon HERE

Best CPU+ Motherboard+ Memory Combo for a Business File Server – The X99 Motherboard Kit (ITX)

Spec Highlights – Business X99 Motherboard Combo ITX LGA2011, C612 for NAS Router+File Server, 6×2.5GbE I226, 10xSATA, 1x M.2 (OS), 14Core / 28 Thread Intel Xeon E5-V3 V4- $176 on AliExpress

This combination is ideal for business users needing power and scalability. The X99 motherboard with an older Xeon CPU balances performance, connectivity, and storage expansion. It supports 10 SATA drives and a M.2 NVMe slot, alongside 15 gigabits of network bandwidth across six 2.5G Ethernet ports. The NAS CPU+Memory combo anchored by the Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 is a robust solution for a NAS file server. The CPU’s 14 cores and 28 threads are engineered for multitasking and can efficiently manage the demands of multiple simultaneous data transactions, which is a common requirement in NAS setups. The motherboard’s ten SATA ports and an M.2 NVMe slot offer versatile and ample storage options, facilitating both high-capacity and high-speed data storage solutions. This combination of CPU power and storage flexibility makes it an excellent choice for a NAS system.

owever, the Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processor’s launch date in Q1’16 might give pause to some users considering the latest advancements in processor technology. While newer CPUs may offer improved power efficiency and the benefit of ongoing support from Intel, the E5-2680 v4 still holds its ground as a reliable workhorse. Its architecture, although not the newest, delivers steadfast performance which, alongside its competitive pricing, presents an exceptional value proposition for budget-conscious setups or where cutting-edge efficiency is not the primary concern.

Specification Details
Processor Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4, 14 cores, up to 3.30 GHz Turbo
Chipset Intel C612
Memory Support 2x DDR4 DIMM slots, up to 64 GB, supports ECC
Storage Options 1x M.2 NVMe, 10x SATA Ports
Expansion 1x PCIe 3.0 x16
Network 6x Intel i226 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
Power Supply ATX 24 Pin + 8 Pin
Video Output VGA
RAID Support RAID 0/1/5/10
Form Factor Mini-ITX, CEB
Socket Type LGA 2011-3
Launch Date 2013
LAN Speed Up to 2500Mbps
Audio 2.1 Channels

In essence, for organizations or users seeking a cost-effective yet powerful NAS solution, this CPU and motherboard combo remains compelling. The Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4, despite its age, is a testament to enduring performance in server environments. Users leveraging this processor for a NAS will find it to be a cost-effective solution that capably handles storage demands, making it an excellent value for its price point. To explore more about this processor’s capabilities and see how it might fit into your NAS plans, you can visit the Intel specifications page.

Where to Buy the X99 ITX Motherboard Combo in 3 Configs Here:
  • Check AliExpress:
  • X99 Motherboard +  E5-2680 V.4 CPU = $129  HERE
  • X99 Motherboard + 32GB RAM = $158 HERE
  • X99 Motherboard +  E5-2680 V.4 CPU + 32GB RAM = $176  HERE


Best CPU+ Motherboard for High Speed M.2 NVMe Slots + PLEX – The Erying 13900HK CPU+Mobo Combo

Spec Highlights – ERYING DIY ITX Desktop Motherboard Set with Onboard 14 Core / 20 Thread CPU i9-13900HK, 3x M.2 NVMe (Gen 4 and Gen 3), PCIe 4×8 Slot, 2.5G+1G Port, USB-C, DDR5 Memory $419 on AliExpress

Designed for NAS builders focusing on media servers or intensive computing tasks. The Erying i9 combo, equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core processor and a Mini-ITX motherboard, features three M.2 NVMe slots and is optimized for graphic-intensive operations. It’s ideal for Plex servers and virtualization.

The Intel Core i9-13900HK processor bundled with this motherboard is a top-tier choice for a NAS setup, especially for a Plex Media Server. Its high-speed multi-core performance, reaching up to 5.40 GHz with Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology, is ideal for on-the-fly transcoding, ensuring seamless media streaming across devices. This is particularly beneficial for users who require their NAS to handle high-resolution video transcoding, a task that the i9-13900HK can manage with ease due to its robust processing capabilities and advanced integrated graphics.

The motherboard’s triple M.2 NVMe slots are a game-changer for NAS configurations, offering not just ample storage potential but also blistering data access speeds. NVMe technology excels in high-demand scenarios, such as multiple simultaneous accesses to the NAS, which is common in VM / Container environments. Users can leverage these slots to set up a RAID configuration, allowing for either performance enhancement through striping or data redundancy for added security.

 

Moreover, the Intel Core i9-13900HK comes with Intel’s UHD Graphics, which supports 4K resolution at 60Hz over HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. This graphical prowess, in combination with the processor’s ability to support fast memory, adds to the NAS’s capability as a potent media server that can handle 4K content playback and transcoding without breaking a sweat.

Specification Detail
Processor 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HK, up to 5.40 GHz
Graphics Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Memory Support DDR5, 2 slots, up to 96GB
Storage Options 3x M.2 slots (NVMe), 2x SATA 3 Ports
Expansion Slots 1x PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x PCIe 4.0 x8
Network 2x Onboard RJ45, WiFi
Audio 5.1 Channels
Back I/O Ports 2x USB 3.2/3.1 Gen 1, DisplayPort, 4x USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0, 3x Audio Jacks
USB Support USB 2.0, USB 3.0
RAID Support No
Form Factor Mini-ITX
Chipset Intel Others
Socket Type Onboard CPU
Brand Name ERYING
Origin Mainland China
Certifications RoHS, FCC, CE

Finally, while this CPU+Motherboard combo is positioned as an advanced solution for NAS setups, its high-end specifications suggest that it is overqualified for just storage purposes. The presence of the latest connectivity options, robust I/O support, and high-bandwidth LAN ports make it well-suited for a variety of other intensive applications, including gaming, content creation, and design. This versatility ensures that the investment in such a setup can be justified across multiple use cases beyond a typical NAS. For detailed processor specifications and capabilities, further information can be explored on Intel’s official product specifications page.

Bottom Line, there are going to be users who are looking at how expensive ‘turnkey’ NAS solutions can cost, then see what just the hardware parts would cost in a DiY alternative. For example, below is the cost of a fully specced out QNAP Intel Core build vs the cost fo JUST the CPU and Motherboard in the Erying board:

Needless to say, this is not a completely fair comparison. The QNAP includes all the building, the software, the PSU, cables, case, testing and all under a single warranty. Still, it IS food for thought for those that are happy to build their own NAS and save some $$$s.

Where to Buy the Erying Intel Mobo Combo (3 Versions):
  • Check AliExpress:
  • Erying 13th Gen i9 Combo 14C / 20T $459  HERE
  • Erying 12th Gen I9 Combo 14C / 20T $389 HERE
  • Erying 11th Gen i7 8C / 16T = $262  HERE

C = Cores , T = Threads


Best POWER + Storage CPU+Motherboard M-ITX Combo – The Intel 13th Gen The Minisforum AR900i (4x M.2 4×4 and 5×16 PCIe)

Spec HighlightsIntel® Core™ i9-13900HX Processor, 24 C/32 T (36M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz) Intel® UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, up to 5600 MT/s, Max 64GB, 4×M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 x4, SSD Slots PCIe 5.0 X16 connector, 1x 2.5GbE and Lack of SATA AGAIN!   Check on AliExpress and $399 on Amazon

The Minisforum AR900i motherboard, in combination with the potent Intel® Core™ i9-13900HX CPU, forms a formidable base for power users. The AR900i is a Mobile Desktop (MoDT) motherboard that leverages the might of the 13th Gen Intel® flagship CPU, providing an exceptional 24 cores and 32 threads for heavy multitasking and demanding applications. Notably, the four M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD slots are designed for rapid storage with RAID capabilities, reflecting a setup intended for high-speed operations and data security. The motherboard’s inclusion of SFF-8643 connectors represents an innovative shift away from static SATA ports, offering a dynamic and scalable solution for storage expansion. This approach is particularly beneficial for custom builds that require a neat cable management system and the flexibility to adjust storage configurations with ease. The PCIe 5.0 X16 slot on this motherboard is a forward-thinking feature, catering to the latest and most powerful GPUs and ensuring that the system is ready for the next generation of graphics and expansion cards.

However, it’s important to consider the networking capabilities of the AR900i. With only a single RJ45 2.5G Ethernet port, users who need enhanced networking may have to invest in a PCIe 5.0 compatible NIC, potentially sacrificing the valuable high-speed slot that could be used for other high-performance components. This choice underscores the need to balance the motherboard’s impressive storage and expansion capabilities with networking needs. The AR900i represents Minisforum’s dedication to compact, high-performance computing solutions. With support for triple-screen displays up to 8K, built-in AX210 wireless card for WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, this motherboard offers comprehensive connectivity options for a variety of uses, from gaming to professional creative workstations.

Specification Category Details
Processor Intel® Core™ i9-13900HX, 24 Cores/32 Threads (36M Cache, up to 5.4 GHz)
GPU Intel® UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors
Chipset Intel® HM770 Chipset
Memory DDR5 Dual channel (SODIMM Slots×2, up to 5600 MT/s, Max 64GB)
Storage 4×M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD Slots
Expansion Slot PCIe 5.0 X16 connector ×1
Wireless Connectivity M.2 2230 Key E Slot
Video Output HDMI2.0 ×1, DisplayPort1.4 ×1, USB-C ×1
Audio Output HDMI2.0 ×1, DisplayPort1.4 ×1, USB-C ×1, Line Out ×1
Ethernet RJ45 2.5G Ethernet Port×1
USB Ports USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port ×1 (Alt DP), USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A Port ×2, USB2.0 Type-A Port ×2
I/O Ports 4-pin CPU Fan header ×1, 4-pin System Fan header ×2, 4-pin SSD Fan header ×1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 header ×1, Front Panel Audio header ×1, System Panel header ×1
Form Factor Mini-ITX Form Factor (170x170mm)

The Intel® Core i9-13900HX processor, with its 24 cores and 32 threads, is a powerhouse suitable for a DIY NAS setup geared towards enthusiasts and professionals requiring robust performance for tasks such as media transcoding, file serving, and hosting complex databases. The processor’s 36M cache and peak speeds of up to 5.4 GHz ensure that multiple operations can be handled efficiently, supporting a smooth and responsive network storage experience. The addition of Intel UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors also allows for hardware-accelerated video encoding and decoding, which can be a significant advantage for a NAS serving as a media server. In terms of memory, the system’s support for DDR5 dual-channel RAM, with speeds up to 5600 MT/s and a maximum capacity of 64GB, provides ample bandwidth and storage for running a NAS operating system along with any additional services. This is particularly important for a NAS that may be handling simultaneous data-intensive tasks. The four M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD slots offer high-speed storage options, ideal for caching or fast data access needs, enhancing the overall performance and speed of the NAS.

The connectivity options of this setup are also noteworthy. The motherboard’s Mini-ITX form factor is well-suited for NAS builds, where space efficiency is often a priority. The inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 X16 expansion slot allows for additional upgrades, such as adding a dedicated network interface card for improved network throughput or additional storage controllers if the four M.2 slots are insufficient. The onboard 2.5G Ethernet port provides a faster-than-gigabit connection, beneficial for transferring large files over the network. With a comprehensive range of I/O ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 and USB-C, the system can accommodate a variety of peripherals and external drives, making it a versatile choice for a DIY NAS setup.

 

Where to Buy the Intel 13th Gen i9 The Minisforum AR900i CPU + M-ITX Motherboard Combo:
  • Check AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE
  • Check Amazon ($399 NOW) HERE

 

 



Best Cheap CPU+MoBo+SSD+RAM Combo – The Topton N6005 CPU+Mobo Combo

Spec Highlights – Topton NAS Motherboard N6005, 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G Nics, Dual M.2 NVMe, Six SATA3.0, 2*DDR4 SODIMM, HDMI2.0, Mini ITX / M-ITX- $261 on AliExpress ($399 for 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB M.2 NVMe Included – see image below)

The Topton N6005 combo offers excellent value, combining an Intel Pentium N6005 processor, motherboard, 16GB RAM, and an NVMe OS SSD. Its popularity stems from its low cost and high performance, suitable for a variety of DIY NAS builds.

Component Specification
CPU Integrated Jasper Lake Intel Celeron N6005
RAM 2x SO-DIMM DDR4 slots, up to 64GB (2400/2666/2933MHz)
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 2280 slots (PCIe 3.0 x1), 6x SATA 3.0 ports
Network 4x Intel i226-V 2.5Gbps network interfaces
Form Factor Mini-ITX (17.0 cm x 17.0 cm)
System Support Microsoft® Windows 10/11 64-bit, Linux
Main Characteristics – Matte Black PCB
– High-density moisture-proof fiber circuit board
– Full protection (USB, audio source, network interface)
GPU Integrated Intel UHD Graphics (24EUs for N5105, 32EUs for N6005)
IO Ports 2x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x DP
LAN 4x RJ-45 2.5G NET
Additional Features – Auto power-on, Wake-On-LAN, PXE support
Structure Solid Capacitor Design

Priced at $261 on AliExpress, and $399 when bundled with 32GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD, the Topton N6005 motherboard combo stands out for its affordability. This price point makes it an accessible entry for enthusiasts and professionals alike who are looking to build a high-performance NAS without incurring exorbitant costs. The inclusion of substantial RAM and fast NVMe storage in the bundle further adds to the value, offering what one might need for a robust NAS setup at a price that challenges many competitors in the market.

The CPU, an Intel Celeron N6005, is a Jasper Lake processor that strikes a balance between efficiency and capability. With a base frequency of 2.0 GHz and a burst frequency of up to 2.9 GHz across its four cores, it’s engineered to handle the multitasking demands of a NAS system. The 10W TDP reflects a design optimized for low power consumption, making it an economical choice for 24/7 operation, a critical consideration for NAS systems which are expected to be always on.

On the storage front, the Topton N6005 shines with two M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 x1 2280 slots for high-speed data transfer and six SATA3 6Gb/s ports for ample storage capacity. This allows users to install fast NVMe drives for the operating system and frequently accessed files, while the SATA ports can host larger hard drives for bulk storage. Such a combination is perfect for a NAS system, providing quick access to data and large storage pools for backup, media libraries, or network file sharing. If you are considering the Topton N6005 CPU+Motherboard combination for PLEX Media Server, I made a dedicated video on this using this CPU/Mobo in the Jobsno N2 NAS Case below, testing 4K Multimedia:

The Topton N6005 has garnered popularity among NAS builders for several reasons. It offers a mini-ITX form factor, which is ideal for compact builds, and includes four 2.5Gbps Intel i226-V network interfaces, enhancing its functionality as a home or small office server. Additionally, the CPU’s support for up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM means it can handle more demanding NAS tasks, such as running virtual machines or hosting databases. These features, coupled with its energy efficiency and expandability, make the Topton N6005 a sought-after component for building versatile and powerful NAS systems.

Where to Buy the TopTon N6005 Motherboard
  • Check AliExpress:
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $229 HERE
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD = $275 HERE
  • Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 32GB RAM + 1TB SSD = $399 HERE
  • AMAZON – Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $169 HERE


Disclaimer – The Jonsbo N1, N2 and N3 are STILL the Best NAS Enclosures

Jonsbo’s range of NAS enclosures stands out as an industry benchmark for those keen on custom desktop NAS builds. These enclosures seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality, showcasing a meticulous design ethos that addresses both the visual and technical demands of modern users. The build quality is exceptional, employing high-grade materials that not only ensure durability but also aid in efficient heat dissipation, a critical factor for continuous NAS operations. Furthermore, Jonsbo has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach by incorporating features that cater to future expansion and adaptability. Their user-friendly design ensures easy installation and maintenance, making them a preferred choice for both novices and seasoned builders. Backed by positive user reviews and a reputation for reliability, Jonsbo NAS enclosures are, without a doubt, one of the best investments for those aiming to craft a high-performance, custom desktop NAS system.

Jonsbo N1 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $96

Jonsbo N2 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $89

Jonsbo N3 5/6 Bay

Price (9/23) $92


Recommended Add-ons and Extras to Remember for Your DiY NAS Build

Building a NAS involves more than just the CPU and motherboard; enclosures, memory, PSUs, and other accessories are essential. Future guides will detail these components, alongside recommendations for smaller, crucial accessories to enhance your DIY NAS server’s functionality.

 

M.2-to-6xSATA Adapter ($10-15) – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

PCie Card to Add 4x M.2 to Your Mobo $20-50 (Check Lane/Speed of Mobo and Compatibility First) – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

Compatible CPU Cooler (CPU Dependant)  $25-50- HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com

SATA Fan Out Cable – HERE on AliExpress or HERE on Amazon.com


Here is our article on the BEST (and worst) NAS Enclosures and Cases you can find on AliExpress for your DiY NAS Build. Click the banner below to read the article, alternatively, you can watch the detailed video HERE. Alternatively, you can watch a video on the best and worst NAS enclosures on Amazon here instead.


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The Best PLEX NAS of 2023/2024 – A Buyers Guide

Par : Rob Andrews
22 décembre 2023 à 10:07

A Guide to the Best Plex NAS Drives to Buy Right Now

In 2024, if you’re considering a Synology or QNAP NAS drive for setting up a Plex Media Server, it’s probably because you’re tired of subscribing to multiple online streaming services, OR you have a vast collection of physical discs at home that you’d like to enjoy conveniently on devices like Amazon FireTV, Roku Box, or a gaming console, without the hassle of discs. Isn’t that a reasonable desire? Remember the days when watching movies and series from your couch was straightforward? You had a collection of DVDs or Blu-rays, chose a disc, and watched. Sure, it was a bit more involved than services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+, BUT you owned your media and decided what to view. The supremacy of subscription-based streaming seemed undisputable, offering easy access to a broad range of content, often viewed only once or twice, all for a modest monthly fee of $5-10 per service. But things got complex. The number of streaming services exploded from a handful to HUNDREDS, with movies and series being exclusively available on certain platforms (sometimes even splitting TV seasons across different services). This led to shorter availability periods for TV shows on streaming platforms as content owners realized the profitability of timed exclusivity and platform hopping. Consequently, streaming services lost their convenience and value, with most homes subscribing to 3-4 different services (typically Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and a cable TV/Sky service) and spending $400-500 annually without owning any media or controlling availability. The biased search features on these platforms, promoting ‘recommended’ content, only add to the longing for the simpler days of choosing a DVD from the shelf. This nostalgia and desire for control are why many are switching to Plex Media Server. To learn more about Plex, a Plex Media Server NAS, and their functions, watch the accompanying video:

Best NAS of the Year

What Have All the Best Plex NAS Drives Have in Common?

It’s essential to note that despite the wide range of Plex NAS drives available, they are not all of equal quality! The market is teeming with ultra-affordable brands, and while they might seem appealing compared to premium NAS brands, often these too-good-to-be-true solutions disappear before your warranty even expires. So, whether you’re considering the three top Plex options I recommend below, or exploring other Plex NAS models found on sale or suggested elsewhere, the best NAS systems consistently include these software and services:

  • Integrated Hardware & Software Package – This means you’re not just buying the hardware; it also comes with a web browser GUI, mobile and desktop client apps (including backup, media, streaming, surveillance, and file management software).
  • Compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux operating systems in all NAS systems covered in this guide.
  • Warranty coverage of 2-3 years, with the option to extend to 5 years.
  • Local and secure remote network access, supported by brand services at no extra cost.Support for the latest 20TB NAS hard drives, such as Seagate Ironwolf 20/22TB and WD Red 20/22TB
  • Support for multiple drive configurations (RAID) for drive failure protection and performance improvements.
  • Regular updates for security, features, and services.
  • Connectivity and synchronization with cloud services (Google Drive, DropBox, OneDrive, etc.) and Business/Enterprise services (AWS, Azure, Backblaze, and more).
  • Ability to host a shared drive on your PC/Mobile/Laptop that syncs with the NAS over the network/internet, integrated into your native file manager (e.g., Mac Finder or Windows Explorer).
  • Direct access via an ethernet/network cable from your PC/Mac to the NAS for 100MB/s and higher connectivity.
  • Backup and sync tools for local client computers to regularly backup files and system data.
  • Ensure any NAS solution you’re considering, even if it’s not listed below, encompasses all these features. These are key areas where brands often cut corners to produce cheaper, but ultimately inferior NAS servers for home and business use.

Explore a free/low cost service that lets you stream your personal media collection, complete with polished graphics, an intuitive graphical user interface, detailed descriptions, trailers, thumbnails, reviews, and more. Today, I aim to highlight the top three NAS drives ideally suited for a Plex Media Server. The market is flooded with thousands of NAS options compatible with Plex (which is not overly demanding in its basic setup), yet the way you plan to utilize it, the number of users you intend to share with, the size of your media library, and the quality of your content (like 4K, 1080p, etc.) play a critical role in determining the most suitable NAS for your Plex Media server. Therefore, my five Plex NAS recommendations for 2023 focus on the optimal Budget 1080p Plex NAS, the premier 4K Plex NAS, and ultimately, the Best ALL-AROUND Plex NAS for 2023/2024. Let’s dive in.


Honourable Mention: The Terramaster F2-424, F4-424  and F4-424 PRO NAS in 2024

Arriving in Early 2024 for $379 / $499 / $699

Although this list of Plex NAS systems are all picked for their suitability to power, budget and performance, I wanted to quickly give a nod to three solutions that are arriving in the first quarter of 2024. So, although they are not technically in the ‘top 3’, I think at least two of these are going to be very popular for low price 4K Plex NAS solutions in 2024. TerraMaster, arguably the value/affordable tier of the private NAS market, have revealed three new solutions that form the beginning of their 2024 series of devices – the Terramaster F4-424 Pro, F4-424 and F2-424 NAS. Arriving before their main competitors Synology, QNAP and Asustor, these new solutions are arriving with a more recent Intel N95 and N300 CPU series and will be available in 2-Bay and 4-Bay configurations.

At the core of the F2-424 and F4-424 models is the Intel Celeron N95 processor, a choice that balances power and efficiency. The F4-424 PRO, on the other hand, steps up the performance with the Intel Core i3 N300 processor, catering to more demanding tasks. Memory-wise, the F2-424 and F4-424 are equipped with 8 GB of DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM, while the F4-424 PRO quadruples this capacity to 32 GB, enhancing its multitasking capabilities. Storage options vary across the models, with the F2-424 featuring two disk slots, suitable for personal or small office setups, and the F4-424 and F4-424 PRO offering four disk slots, providing more flexibility and capacity for intensive data storage needs.Here is a comparison table for the TerraMaster F2-424, F4-424, and F4-424 PRO NAS devices with the correct CPU specifications:

Feature/Specification TerraMaster F2-424 TerraMaster F4-424 TerraMaster F4-424 PRO
Processor Model Intel® Celeron N95 Intel® Celeron N95 Intel® Core™ i3 N300
Processor Architecture X.86 64-bit X.86 64-bit X.86 64-bit
Processor Frequency Max burst up to 3.4 GHz Max burst up to 3.4 GHz Max Turbo Frequency 3.80 GHz
Total Cores 4 4 8
Total Threads 4 4 8
System Memory 8 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM 8 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM 32 GB (Max, dependent on memory type)
Memory Slot Number 1 (DDR5 SODIMM) 1 (DDR5 SODIMM) 1
Maximum Supported Memory 32 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM 32 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM 16 GB
Disk Slot Number 2 4 4
Compatible Drive Types 3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD 3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD 3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD
Maximum Internal Raw Storage Capacity 44 TB (22 TB x2) 88 TB (22 TB x4) 88 TB (22 TB x4)
Drive Hot Swap Yes Yes Yes
External Ports 2x RJ-45 2.5GbE, 2x USB3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s), HDMI 4K 60FPS 2x RJ-45 2.5GbE, 2x USB3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s), HDMI 4K 60FPS 2x RJ-45 2.5GbE, 2x USB3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s), HDMI 4K 60FPS
Dimensions (HWD) 222 x 119 x 154 mm 222 x 179 x 154 mm 222 x 179 x 154 mm
Weight 2.2 kg 3.4 kg 3.4 kg
System Fan 80 x 80 x 25 mm 80 x 80 x 25 mm 120 x 120 x 25 mm
Noise Level 19.0 dB(A) 19.0 dB(A) 21.0 dB(A)
Power Supply 40 W 40 W 90 W
Power Consumption 22.0 W (active), 11.0 W (hibernation) 22.0 W (active), 11.0 W (hibernation) 33.0 W (active), 13.0 W (hibernation)
Operating Temperature 0°C to 40°C 0°C to 40°C 0°C to 40°C
Supported OS Windows, Mac, Linux Windows, Mac, Linux Windows, Mac, Linux
Supported Browsers Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
Supported Mobile OS iOS14.0+, Android 10.0+ iOS14.0+, Android 10.0+ iOS14.0+, Android 10.0+
Networking TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, Link Aggregation, DLNA, VPN, DDNS TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, Link Aggregation, DLNA, VPN, DDNS TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, Link Aggregation, DLNA, VPN, DDNS
Security Features Firewall, AES Encryption, RSA 2048 Firewall, AES Encryption, RSA 2048 Firewall, AES Encryption, RSA 2048
Price (Approximate) $379 $499 $699

This table provides a detailed comparison across key features and specifications for these TerraMaster NAS models. A common thread among these TerraMaster NAS units is their robust build and reliable performance. Each model supports both 3.5″ SATA HDDs and 2.5″ SATA SSDs, ensuring versatility in storage media choices. Networking is a strong suit, with all models featuring 2.5GbE network jacks for faster data transfer speeds, and HDMI ports for direct video output. Compatibility with various operating systems including Windows, Mac, and Linux, alongside comprehensive security features like firewall protection and AES encryption, underscores their flexibility and security focus.


Entry Level 4K Plex NAS – Synology DS224+

0-36TB, Intel J4125 4-Core CPU with 350-750Mhz Int.GFX, 2-6GB DDR4 Memory, 2x 2Gbe Port, 2yr Warranty

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $299

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

What I said in my review Aug ’23:

The Synology DS224+ is a NAS that, in the correct context, is actually a really good choice of server for a lot of users. When Synology rearranged their portfolio in the middle of 2022, there was always going to be inconsistencies between releases and issues surrounding the placement of solutions in their ranges that needed addressing. When they upgraded the DS923+ and DS723+ with ECC memory up to 32GB, NVMe SSD pool support, optional 10GBE network upgrades, and a much more powerful business-class CPU, it was clear that they had designated that tier of their portfolio to be far more business than pleasure. From there, it became obvious that the standard mid-range two and four-bay solutions (in this case the DS224+ and DS423+) were going to be more home-user and multimedia-user-designated, and their hardware architecture needed to sit more balanced between the business-class solutions and the value series of real tech NAS devices. However, this has resulted in a new NAS arriving on the scene that has an intentionally low glass ceiling, and the disparity in hardware created between the DS224+ and the DS723+, despite a modest price difference between them, is only further worsened when the hardware similarities between the prosumer previous generation and this SMB generation are massive. It creates a feeling to the end-user who is aware of Synology’s previous releases that this is “paying money for old rope” and not a new-generation hardware solution. The reality, to new users and those that are upgrading away from the value tier into something a bit more established in the+ tier, is actually more nuanced. You are getting a great CPU here that, despite its age, still does extraordinarily well in DSM applications and third-party popular applications like Plex Media Server. Add to that that this is still a refresh of the previous generation that has moved from a dual-core to a quad-core processor, and you can see that upgrades in this refresh have occurred, though modest.

Then there is the fact that this system can still support the full range of applications and services in the Synology DSM 7.2 system software and makes it by far the lowest price you are ever going to have to pay to access everything that DSM can do in the latest generation, also guaranteeing the longest support of that software long after the hardware warranty has expired (security and feature updates). It does make a tremendous difference that the Synology developers and product managers know this hardware architecture so intricately, and that means that you are going to have a system that can run everything in the most efficient way possible, which will certainly pay dividends in the days, weeks, months, and years that you will have the system in operation – especially when factoring rising energy costs globally and how you want your system to do as much as possible while eating up as little electricity as possible! In conclusion, the Synology DS224+ is probably not Synology’s most exciting release, and if you are someone that skipped the 2020 generation of solutions because you wanted to hold out for something greater and more powerful, the DS224+ will probably serve as something of a damp squib to you. But it is a very solid NAS release, and as long as you put it in the right context as a buyer and keep in mind that this system is a refresh of the DS220+, it still does a great job. It just lacks a lot of the scalability and upgradability of other recent Synology NAS releases and looks, at least in the hardware department, a little underwhelming against competitors in 2023. You can definitely do a lot worse, but there is also the potential to do a lot better by spending just a fraction more.

SOFTWARE - 10/10
HARDWARE - 6/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 7/10


7.6
PROS
👍🏻Synology 4-Bay NAS with a 4-Core Intel Integrated Gfx Processor - Lovely stuff!
👍🏻Runs Everything in the Synology DSM Catalogue (Active Backup, Surveillance Station, VMM, Drive, Collab Suite, etc)
👍🏻Great Plex, Emby and Jellyfin Media Server Performance
👍🏻Broad HDD/SSD Compatibility with Synology drives AND Seagate+WD
👍🏻Low Impact chassis, low noise in operation (HDD dependant) and efficient power use
👍🏻Runs exceedingly well on just 2GB of Memory
👍🏻More affordable than the DS923+ and DS723+
👍🏻Long-running DSM Support beyond the Hardware
CONS
👎🏻No means to upgrade network connectivity and 1GbE by default
👎🏻Memory maximum cap at 6GB as original 2GB is fixed (non-upgradable)
👎🏻Small Jump from the 2020 released DS220+
👎🏻Non-Expandable
👎🏻Lack of M.2 NVMe Support


Where to Buy a Product
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DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology DS224+ 2-Bay Diskstation NAS (Intel Celeron J4125 4-Core 2.0 GHz 2GB DD Amazon UK UK 7.94 OFF (WAS 795) [LINK]
Synology DS224+ 16TB 2 Bay NAS Solution installed with 2 x 8TB Synology HAT3300 Amazon UK UK 16.96 OFF (WAS 954) [LINK]
Synology DS224+ 24TB 2 Bay NAS Solution installed with 2 x 12TB Synology HAT3300 Amazon UK UK 97.76 OFF (WAS 1216) [LINK]
Synology DS224+ 2-Bay Diskstation NAS (Intel Celeron J4125 4-Core 2.0 GHz 2GB DD Amazon usa USA 242.27 OFF (WAS 653) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily


Best All Round Local + Remote Value 4K Plex NAS – The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2

0-88TB, Intel N5105 Celeron + 350-800Mhz Int. GFX, 4-16GB Memory, 4x M.2 NVMe 2280 Gen3x1 SSD Slots, 4x SATA Bays, LCD Control, HDMI 4K 60FPS and KVM Support, 2x 2.5GbE, USB 3.2 10G, 3yr Warranty, TrueNAS/UnRAID Support

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $499+

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

Asustor TrueNAS Installation Guide HERE

Asustor UnRAID Installation Guide HERE

What I said in my review Nov ’22:

The Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 NAS is a respectable piece of kit! Indeed, the hardware here is almost faultless! Unless you are particularly noise sensitive (and therefore the metal chassis adding a few dBa to the ambient sound), there is almost nothing I can fault here on the devices hardware. The scaling up of practically all hardware over the Gen 1 Lockerstor, such as Better CPU, Better Memory that goes higher, HDMI 2.0b, USB 3.2 Gen 2, a 10GbE upgrade option and THOSE FOUR M. 2 NVMe SSD SLOTS – you simply cannot fault how much is getting included here at the price point vs it’s competitors. The software is a little less compelling, with a smaller range of 1st party applications on offer, more of a reliance on 3rd party services and the absence of a few AAA+ features that are present on other devices in the market (AI services, Cloud Bolt on live synchronization, 1st Party SaaS native sync with Google Workspace/Office365, etc).

That said, ADM does run very well, is clear and still quite user-friendly. The addition of choice of file systems EXT4 or BTRFS, flexibility on the use of those M.2 NVMe SSD bays and the Asustor HDMI portal still bring fantastic flexibility to the Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 NAS too. Ultimately, this is a system that is clearly making big waves on it’s hardware more than it’s software, but as long as you keep your feet on the ground and appreciate that this system is more of a 70/30 purchase of hardware vs software, you will come to respect and rely on this Asustor NAS as the backbone of your data storage setup.

SOFTWARE - 8/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 9/10


8.6
PROS
👍🏻Hard/Impossible to find this level of NAS Hardware elsewhere at this price point
👍🏻Those FOUR M.2 NVMe 2280 SSD slots are great and turn this 4-Bay NAS into an 8-Bay
👍🏻2.5GbE by default, as well as the option to add further 2.5/5Gb connections over USB
👍🏻The option to scale up the network connectivity to 10GbE down the line (4 and 6 Bay only)
👍🏻$60 increase over RRP of Lockstor Gen 1, but upgrades practically everything 1-2 levels (New Celeron CPU, Better/High Memory Max, USB 10G, HDMI 2.0b, PCIe Gen 3 Architecture)
👍🏻Includes support for either EXT4 or BTRFS
👍🏻Includes KVM Support with Parallel GUI over HDMI, Asustor Portal
👍🏻ADM is better tha nit has ever been, responsive, clear and intuitive
👍🏻Several different setup and initialization options
👍🏻One of very few 4-Bay NAS drives that still feature a fully functional and controllable LCD Panel
👍🏻Full Support of the traditional RAID levels for this scale (RAID 0-1-5-6)
👍🏻Storage can be expanded with TWO of the Asustor AS6004U 4-Bay
CONS
👎🏻Lack of a fluid RAID System (such as Synology Hybrid RAID, Drobo BeyondRAID or Terramaster TRAID) to allow mixed drive media and easier scaling of storage over time
👎🏻Metal chassis and trays is going to result in an increase of ambient noise (hum/vibration) than other plastic casing/tray NAS systems
👎🏻Some apps (such as the Surveillance Center apps) are long overdue an update in visuals and services
👎🏻ADM is good, but lacks the killer apps/AAA and AI service tools that are being offered by other brands right now
👎🏻They were targeted by the Deadbolt ransomware attack at the start of 2022 and although the linux vulnerability that was used has been reported to be closed and they worked with affected users, this is still going to be on the minds of some buyers

Where to Buy a Product
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8K PLEX READY NAS DRIVE – The QNAP TVS-h874

0-176TB, 8-Bays, 2x PCIe 4 M.2 NVMe 2280, PCIe Gen 4×16 Upgrade Slot, Intel Core 12th Gen i5/i7/i9 CPU, 16-64GB DDR4 Memory, 2.5Gbe Port, 10Gb x2 Prots (Intel i9 Version), KVM, ZFS or EXT4 Setup, 3-5yr Warranty , TrueNAS/UnRAID Support

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $2000-2500-3000

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

What I said in my review Dec ’22:

QNAP TrueNAS Installation Guide HERE

QNAP UnRAID Installation Guide HERE

The QNAP TVS-h874 NAS is easily one of the most hardware-capable desktop NAS systems that I have ever seen (as you would expect for £2500+) and has clearly been designed with phenomenal future proofing in mind! If you are concerned about the longevity of this NAS, this hardware architecture will still be top tier 5 years from now, with the added support of PCIe 4 meaning that high capacity and performing micro upgrades throughout its life also ensuring it remains relevant long after. It’s price tag clearly moves this purchase out of the home and squarely into the business market (though likely those that take their media seriously will add it to the cart) and the TVS-h874 will function as a solid solution for Video editing (even at 8K), high frequency and performing VMs, large scale AI powered Surveillance setup, hybrid cloud/on-prem alternative to Office 365/Google Workspace services and as the center point for all your data storage operations. Crucially though, it is that the hardware on offer here will be able to do ALL of these at the same time, therefore maximising the investment for most businesses that want to move aware from their cloud dependant ops. In terms of software,t things are a little less absolute, with QTS and QuTS still getting a little busy at times, with a steeper learning curve than its big rival DSM from Synology. That said, die-hard fans of ZFS (Zettabyte File System) will adore the inclusion of benefits in RAID handling, management and recovery that are exclusive to that platform, whilst enjoying the wide range of applications and service benefits in QuTS that are often restricted to Linux platforms.

The slightly conveluded approach to release hardware that does complicate the selection process (different CPUs in the Intel 12th Gen family changing the rest of the system architecture) is something that I hoped this brand would graduate from (for the sake of simplicity), but for many, this level of choice in hardware and budget will be welcome. As is QNAP’s position on the support of 3rd party hardware (drives, PCIe upgrades, etc) and software, something that we have seen a worrying trend in the last few years against elsewhere in the industry but some other brands, to err towards 1st party/proprietary compatibility more and more. There are still lingering doubts by some on the security of NAS, with ransomware attacks on the rise and ALL brands and ALL platforms being targetted (NAS, Cloud ,etc), finding a middle ground between ease of use and depth of security being a tricky tie rope walk indeed. The TVS-h874 arrives with a wide range of Day 1 tools, further rigid defaults in QTS/QuTS in 2022/2023, considerable security settings to configure and multiple system scan tools for recommendations & preventative measures available. The QNAP TVS-h874 is probably the most powerful desktop/tower NAS drive I have ever reviewed and if you are looking for a system that can legitimately do anything server-side, but you are also willing to put in the time to configure it correctly – you will genuinely be hard pushed to find a better system in 2022, 2023 and likely 2024 at this price point and scale.

SOFTWARE - 8/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 10/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 9/10


9.0
PROS
👍🏻First Commercial Intel Core 12th Gen i5, i7 and i9 NAS Drive
👍🏻Upto 20 Cores, 24 Threads and High End Integrated Graphics
👍🏻PCIe Gen 4 x16 Upgrade Slot for 10/25/100GbE Cards and 2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe Slots for 7GB SSDs
👍🏻No Obstinant 3rd Party Hardware Limitations on Support or Compatibility
👍🏻Much larger support of 3rd Party Software Services than most other NAS Brands
👍🏻10Gb/s USB Connectivity, in Type A and Type C
👍🏻Upto 64GB of Memory and Potential for 128GB
👍🏻ZFS or EXT 4 File System Choice
👍🏻M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Storage or Caching
👍🏻Volume Encryption, SED SSD Support and WORM
👍🏻Enhanced AI Surveillance Services, with opt to upgrade with $30 Google TPU
👍🏻AI Photo Management Tool (QuMagie) Includes Thing Recognition and works offline
👍🏻ALL the ZFS Benefits, whilst also the GUI and App benefits of a Linux Software Platform in one
CONS
👎🏻Available Versions/Configs of the 4/6/8-Bay are confusing
👎🏻QVR Elite (not QVR Pro) only has 2 Cam Licences
👎🏻HDMI Output is 1.4b
👎🏻10Gbe is ONLY included with the most expensive Intel i9 Model
👎🏻Noisy when in operation when fully populated
👎🏻Too Many licenses on Enterprise Tools (Drive Analyzer, Face Tiger, etc) with too few free licenses

 

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

QNAP TVS-h874 NAS Tower Ethernet LAN Black Amazon UK UK 28.86 OFF (WAS 3776) [LINK]
QNAP TVS-h874-i5-32G-US 8 Bay High-Speed Desktop NAS with M.2 PCIe Slots, 12th G Amazon usa USA 32.4 OFF (WAS 2166) [LINK]
QNAP TVS-h874-i5-32G Intel Core i5 Processor, 32 GB RAM, PCIe Gen 4 expandabilit Amazon usa USA 529.8 OFF (WAS 3539) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily


Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible. Just enter in a few details of your setup, storage requirements and (in the case of buying a new solution) your budget – then me and Eddie the Web guy can help you with your question. This is a completely free service, is NOT provided with profit in mind and is manned by two humans (no bots, no automated replies, etc). Assistance might take an extra day or two (the service gets a lot of visitors) but we do try to answer every message. If you want to support this service, you can find out how to donate HERE. Otherwise, you can still just message us for free advice anyway!

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QNAP TVS-h874T Thunderbolt4 NAS Review – Editing Perfection?

Par : Rob Andrews
8 décembre 2023 à 15:00

The QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Drive Review

The unveiling of the TVS-H874T at Computex in summer 2023 marked an important update to the existing TVS-h874 model. This system, positioned in the higher end of the market with a launch price between $2999 and $3499, caters to a niche yet demanding audience. Aimed at content creators, 4K video editors, and those involved in production, the TVS-H874T is designed to meet the intensive demands of high-resolution content management and creation. As the fourth, or by some measures, the fifth generation of Thunderbolt NAS technology, the TVS-H874T raises important considerations for potential users. It represents a significant investment in network storage technology, particularly for professionals who need high-capacity and high-speed storage solutions. This launch prompts several critical questions: Will the TVS-H874T truly benefit content creators and post-production users who are considering it? Does it justify its high price tag in comparison to the capabilities it offers? And, in the evolving landscape of digital storage, are users better off investing in this advanced NAS system, or might traditional Thunderbolt DAS devices suffice for their needs? The answers to these questions will determine the real-world impact and success of the TVS-H874T in a highly specialized market.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Highlights

  • Intel 12th Gen i7 or i9 Configuration Options, in 12 Core and 16 Core Versions (20/24 Thread Respectively) with Integrated UHD Graphics 770
  • 32-64GB DDR4 Memory (128GB in Testing)
  • PCIe Gen 4 Architecture (PCIe 4×6 PCIe Upgrade Slot and PCIe 4×4 M.2 NVMe)
  • 8x SATA Bays, Supporting the latest 20TB & 22TB Hard Drives
  • Thunderbolt 4 Connectivity
  • 350W Internal PSU (Graphics Cards Supported)
  • HDMI/KVM Support with USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb Connections, Type C and Type A
  • Choice of ZFS or EXT4 System Software and File System

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

In summarizing the capabilities and potential of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS, released as a late 2023 update to its predecessor, it’s clear that this system represents a significant leap forward in desktop NAS technology. Priced over £2500, it’s a substantial investment, designed with future-proofing in mind. The TVS-h874T not only maintains the longevity and high-end status of the TVS-h874 but also brings to the table enhanced direct data access through Thunderbolt 4 integration. This advancement, supporting IP over Thunderbolt protocol, significantly boosts connectivity and speed, making the system an ideal choice for demanding tasks such as 8K video editing and high-performance computing needs in business environments.

However, the question of whether Thunderbolt NAS is the right fit for all users remains. For those requiring high-speed, multi-user access and scalability, the TVS-h874T is a strong contender. Its support for the latest PCIe 4 standards ensures compatibility with high-performance upgrades, reinforcing its position as a future-proof investment. The software, featuring QTS and QuTS, might require some acclimatization, particularly for those familiar with simpler systems like Synology’s DSM. Yet, the benefits, especially for ZFS enthusiasts, are undeniable, offering advanced RAID management and a plethora of applications and services.

The TVS-h874T’s stance on open hardware and software compatibility is a significant plus in an industry increasingly leaning towards proprietary systems. It accommodates a range of third-party hardware and software, adding to its versatility. In the face of growing concerns over NAS security, the system is well-equipped with comprehensive tools and settings for enhanced security and data protection, addressing the pressing issue of ransomware attacks. In conclusion, the QNAP TVS-h874T stands out as an exceptional choice for businesses and power users who require a robust, scalable, and secure NAS solution. It offers an excellent balance of price, performance, and features, making it a worthy investment for those seeking top-tier server-side capabilities. However, for users with simpler storage needs or those not requiring the advanced features of Thunderbolt NAS, traditional Thunderbolt DAS devices might be a more suitable and cost-effective option. The TVS-h874T, with its advanced capabilities, is undoubtedly a powerhouse in NAS technology, but its full benefits will be best realized by those whose requirements align closely with what this advanced system has to offer.

SOFTWARE - 9/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 10/10
PRICE - 7/10
VALUE - 7/10


8.6
PROS
👍🏻Only brand rolling out i9 Turnkey NAS
👍🏻Only NAS Rolling out Thundebrolt4 NAS (for now!)
👍🏻Upto 20 Cores, 24 Threads and High End Integrated Graphics
👍🏻PCIe Gen 4 x16 Upgrade Slot for 10/25/100GbE Cards and 2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe Slots for 7GB SSDs
👍🏻No Obstinant 3rd Party Hardware Limitations on Support or Compatibility
👍🏻Much larger support of 3rd Party Software Services than most other NAS Brands
👍🏻10Gb/s USB Connectivity, in Type A and Type C
👍🏻Upto 64GB of Memory
👍🏻ZFS or EXT 4 File System Choice
👍🏻M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Storage or Caching
👍🏻Volume Encryption, SED SSD Support and WORM
👍🏻Enhanced AI Surveillance Services, with opt to upgrade with $30 Google TPU
👍🏻AI Photo Management Tool (QuMagie) Includes Thing Recognition and works offline
👍🏻ALL the ZFS Benefits, whilst also the GUI and App benefits of a Linux Software Platform in one
CONS
👎🏻No Smaller 4-Bay Version
👎🏻QVR Elite (not QVR Pro) only has 2 Cam Licences
👎🏻Lack of ECC Memory will annoy some users
👎🏻10Gbe is Missing (so no TB-TO-10GbE Pass-through)
👎🏻Too Many licenses on Enterprise Tools (Drive Analyzer, Face Tiger, etc) with too few free licenses
DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?


These Offers are Checked Daily

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – PACKAGING & ACCESSORIES

The retail box of the QNAP TVS-874 NAS is fairly standard and pretty much the same as the bulk of other devices in this tier of storage. Large brown box, big sticker denoting the device inside and it’s architecture – all pretty normal (if a little dull) stuff. That said, I am always very interested in the actual protection that is afforded to these devices in transit in terms of protection from shock, motion and pressure damage. Despite the QNAP TVS-874 NAS arriving unpopulated (i.e. no drive media included), there are still quite fragile devices that are susceptible to silent damage (cracks on the internal boards, loosening of connectors internally, dislodging of transistors or chips that often you do not realise happened till months/years down the line). In the case of the QNAP TVS-874 NAS, this device has a fantastically dense level of protection.

The unit is encased in a rigid hard foam that 100% prevents the device moving in transit, as well as absorbing the bulk of any physical or shock-based impact when in transit (built in Taiwan, these devices will travel more than half the globe easily). The accessories kit is held tightly in a pre-cut panel in the foam and that is pretty much it! Unless a forklift truck arm manages to punch a pallet of these in a warehouse, this is pretty much as good a level of protection as you can get. Indeed, there is enough protection here that I would ship this fully populated with little to no concern frankly. Let’s discuss what is included in the QNAP TVS-874 retail kit.

There is actually not too much in the way of accessories included with the QNAP TVS-874 NAS. No external PSU (it is a chunky internal 350W), only one ethernet cable (CAT 5e), screws for 3.5 and 2.5″ media (despite the trays being click-and-load), keys for the bays, external mains lead and docs related to the product. Not a vast amount, but pretty much everything you are going to need.

The included documents are a first-time setup manual (very light on details and far more recommended to use online resources), information on the included 3 years warranty and details on how to extend that warranty to 5 years. The cost of adding two additional years of warranty is typically relative to the cost of the device. So, for example, a TS-464 that costs around £550 will cost around £89 to add 2 more years, whereas the £2500 TVS-h874T i7 version will cost you £599. The extra warranty is purely optional and although it took QNAP longer than many wanted to create a much more user-friendly warranty support system (they now have the colour-coded system), its good to have that choice available. Extra warranty used to only be an option that could be applied in the first 60 days of ownership, but has been extended recently to within the first 9 months for a limited time. Otherwise, you still have the 3 years of hardware warranty and effective product-lifespan support in software (generally around 8-10 years depending on the device) in firmware updates that include security and service extras.

Another very, very small extra in the accessories pack that I am both happy (and sad) about is the inclusion of a couple of adhesive heatsinks that you can attach to drives installed in the two M.2 NVMe 2280 bays. Now, on the one hand, this is good because it is surprising how few brands/devices that feature M.2 NVMe SSD bays (most NAS’ these days actually) do NOT include heatsinks in the NAS retail kit, despite M.2 NVMe SSDs getting very hot during sustained access – something that forms a big part of SSD caching. So, I AM chuffed they are included (they are not expensive and show the brand is aware of this temp factor), however they are pretty small! I know that the only component you should worry about really is the SSD Controller (it will bottleneck/throttle when too hot), as the storage NAND works better when warm – but it would have been nice if QNAP included full-length 2280 Hheatsinks (they are like $10) instead. Still, better to have them than not at all!

That said, the fact the system does not arrive with a Thunderbolt 4 Cable is a little disappointing. I can appreciate that USB-C Thunderbolt 4 certified cables are not cheap, but nor is the TVS-h874T and unlike a mains power cable, ethernet cable or a USB cable, Thunderbolt 4 cables are not so common. This is additionally exacerbated by the fact that there is a non-Thunderbolt version of this device (the TVS-h874), so it is not as if someone will choose this version unless they specifically want to use Thunderbolt 3/4.

The accessories included with the QNAP TVS-874 are fairly standard stuff, which is not a bad thing. The protection afforded to it in transit is first class and although the retail packaging itself is a bit bland (again, enterprise product that is bought over the internet – so why make it ‘snazzy’), overall QNAP TVS-874 NAS presentation is pretty spot on – it’s just a shame about the lack of a TB4 cable. Let’s discuss the design of the system itself.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Design

The design of the QNAP TVS-h874T chassis is very similar to that of the TVS-872XT, which is unsurprising as that was the debut for this NAS design and one that has continued in most of the brand’s high-profile releases in the 5 years. It is pretty much the classic 8 SATA bay shape you would expect, but there are a few elements that are seemingly still quite unique to QNAP. As you might expect, the chassis design is largely metal throughout (with areas of the front panel and trays in plastic) that aids heat dissipation in this 24×7 server, with ventilation on practically all sides working in conjunction with a more enterprise internal fan arrangement (more on that later). Although the bulk of the physical space is dedicated to those storage bays, this system is still a bit deeper than many 8-Bay devices on the market (such as the Synology DS1821+ and Lockerstor 8), which is largely down to a larger degree of internal cooling, aggressively sized CPU heatsink and larger PCIe expandability.

Of course, one physical design feature on the TVS-h874T that is slowly growing out of fashion (but still, in my opinion, has tremendous utility) is the front visible LCD panel that gives you realtime information about the system operation, along with navigation buttons. Now, on the face of it, an LCD panel on a network/remote access storage device seems a bit redundant. However, speaking on behalf of the IT storage community, having that extra option to visible SEE the nature of an alert (RAID degradation, temp sensor, etc) without the need to log in, go through 2-step authentication and access the logs is a nice extra feature. The same goes for the ability to cycle through the device’s LCD options to find out the IP and identity of the device, so you can go straight in without having to use network scanners to locate the device. It’s a small extra and although it is by no means worth the price of admission on this £2.5K NAS, I am glad it is still there in the 2023 generation.

Another thing this device needs to take ALOT more seriously than many other NAS devices of the same storage scale is ventilation. The system TECHNICALLY has 4 fans! 1 PSU fan (doesn’t really count), two large 120m fans on the rear and an additional 80mm fan beside them. This large arrangement of fans runs in conjunction with heatsinks that are arranged across the main controller boards (with the CPU heatsink being especially large). Given this system will be running a hugely powerful CPU, PCIe 4 M.2 SSDs (notorious for getting quite hit in operation at peak), those two PCIe slots (Gen 4 and Gen 3) AND 8 bays of SATA storage – cooling in 24×7 deployment is going to be CRUCIAL! I was always impressed by the cooling system on the TVS-872XT/X, but there is no avoiding that this is not exactly going to be a whisper-quiet system! Indeed, those content creators and editors in post-production that are considering this system for editing on PCIe4 Storage over 10GbE (or scaling up towards 25/40Gb on SFP or Thunderbolt) should be aware that close proximity to the device is going to be hard going! Again, at this scale of storage and level of design, this should come as no surprise – but it is still worth noting.

The eight storage bays of the TVS-h874T use QNAP’s plastic click-n-load plastic trays. Nicely designed, rigid and is not going to be affected by heat. The trays support toolless 3.5″ media installation (as well as holes for screwing in 2.5″ media). The TVS-h874T can be populated with a little as a single HDD/SSD if you choose (which would be odd!), but partial population is growing in popularity these days, thanks to larger 20TB, 22TB and even 24TB NAS Hard Drives arriving.

On that subject, the QNAP TVS-h874T does not have any perceived unreasonable limitations on hard drive compatibility and support (something, their biggest rival Synology has been debating with its user base about throughout 2022), meaning that by current commercial HDD compatibility in December 2022, the TVS-h874T can support (in it’s base, not expanded form) 176TB of raw storage. I mention expandability because the TVS-h874T can be expanded using two of any of the range of QNAP expansion devices (scaling from 2-Bays all the way to 12/16-Bays), as well as more if you use the SAS expander options. Expansion on the software side is a little less comprehensive, with your native storage expansion method (i.e just increasing the storage pool with more drives and expanding volumes) still being less smooth/possible in the ZFS QuTS setup than on the EXT4 QTS setup (which you cannot switch between after initialization without formatting the system). Still, this is a huge amount of storage expandability to have, whether you are considering Day 1 partial population or adding new expansion chassis’ later.

Each of the bays is SATA 6Gb/s, with most current enterprise-gen HDDs hitting 260-270MB/s or so (which promised 400-450MB/s HDDs from Seagate in their Mach2 still being rolled out slowly, plus their NVMe HDD EXO series still at the private testing phase at larger data centers at the time of writing). The connections are clean, wire-free combined DATA+Power connectors inside an aluminium cage. The system (depending on whether you opt for QuTS ZFS or QTS EXT4 at start up) supports numerous RAID configurations in RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50 and 60, as well as RAIDZ and especially business-centric triple parity configs. Opting for ZFS as your file system at initialization also allows you to benefit from considerably faster RAID build speeds (as the traditional volume layer is absent), RAID resilvering (ie re-introducing drives that have the same party/raid-group data that were cloned or accidentally ejected, is dramatically reduced in rebuild time to minutes, not hours), and other benefits towards inline data compression and deduplication (covered later).

Whereas the EXT4 setup, though lacking these ZFS advantages, DOES allow you to expand storage on the fly more easily and also allows you to take advantage of the QTier combined storage media pools (again, more on that later). The only thing missing for me is a fluid RAID system (such as Synology’s SHR, Drobo’s BeyondRAID or Terramaster’s TRAID) that allows you to use HDD/SSDs of different capacities in a single RAID and be able to take advantage of the higher capacities. I am still kinda surprised that they have yet to introduce this in their software and services. Still, this is a very minor blip on an otherwise great selection of storage services and support.

Alongside the LCD Panel mentioned earlier, the TVS-h874T also has numerous LEDs that denote system activity (much like other NAS brands that ditched LCD panels) These cover the individual eight storage bays health and activity, the system access activity, network status, USB access and even dedicated LEDs for the M.2 NVMe SSD Bays inside. These LEDs (and the LCD in fact) can have their brightness decreased or deactivated if you want.

The system also has a front-mounted USB Copy Button and USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) port for local backups. QNAP was the first to include these faster USB 10Gb ports to their systems (as far back as 2017 in fact), and alongside the port, there are also two more on the rear of the device. QNAP also has one of the broadest ranges of compatible USB devices (storage, 2.5/5G network adapters, wireless adapters, office peripherals, remote controls, tuners and more), as well as allowing you to assign them to virtual machines. I know one-touch copy buttons are a little old hat (local in a remote access world), but speaking as someone who have never REALLY trusted ‘autosave’ in software, the idea that my local USB backups can be triggered automatically, on a schedule OR MANUALLY by hand, is a range of choice I will always appreciate!

Overall, although very little has changed in the external design of the TVS-h874T compared with the 4-5 years older TVS-872XT, that is not a bad thing. They have clearly refined the cooling in this time, adapted a few new hardware upgrades into an existing framework and it still continues to be a remarkably well-built chassis in 2022/2023. Let’s discuss the external connectivity of the TVS-h874T NAS.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Ports & Connections

The connectivity that the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS arrives with is all good, if fairly standard stuff (unless you opt for the Intel i9 version – more on that later). As mentioned earlier, there are a plethora of fans on the rear of this 8-Bay, but when it comes to the default connections on offer, there is only really three. It is in it’s long term scalability that the connections of the QNAP TVS-h874T that things start to get a little spicy.

Despite this being a desktop NAS, an external PSU Is completely out of the question. Even if you only factor in the eight SATA bays and core CPU/Memory setup, this would still push the required base power needed to make an internal PSU largely inevitable. However, once you factor in the Gen 4 PCIe slots and Gen 4 M.2 NVMe slots, we are talking hundreds of watts potentially being needed. The QNAP TVS-h874T NAS has an internal chunky 350W PSU that, although relatively easy to replace later down the line through QNAP or 3rd parties, is going to be a small pain to actually get to. Not a big issue, but one worth factoring in, as the PSU is the 2nd most fragile part of any NAS system. This system also has the support of some GPU cards, though the PSU lacks any additional power connectors for beefier upgrade cards.

The default network ports of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS are 2.5GbE, with the system arriving with two ports. Using Link Aggregation/Port Trunking or SMB Multichannel in supported setups to hit between 279MB/s and 558MB/s. This eight-bay NAS will EASILY saturate this kind of bandwidth (even with rather domestic class storage media), but it is when you start to factor in upgrades towards 10GbE and 25GbE ports on this system that you will really see it stretch it’s muscles!

The QNAP TVS-h874T-i9-64G version of this series arrives with two 10GbE ports by default (something that I think is a bit of an oversight on the i5 and i7 models) but even then, the combination of 8 bays of SATA storage, 2x M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 Bays and potential to add PCIe 4 NVMe storage and/or Network combo cards means that this system has TENS OF THOUSANDS of Megabytes of internal performance potential. So how much of that can actually be realized externally? Well, going by QNAP’s published performance figures (as I personally simply do not have the hardware environment to simulate this), we can see the following:

In short:

  • 2.5GbE x1 = 295MB/s Sequential Read, 295MB/s Sequential Write
  • 2.5GbE x2 = 590MB/s Sequential Read, 590MB/s Sequential Write
  • 10GbE x1 = 1179MB/s Sequential Read, 21179MB/s Sequential Write
  • 10GbE x2 = 2344MB/s Sequential Read, 2344MB/s Sequential Write
  • 25GbE x1 = 2948MB/s Sequential Read, 2954MB/s Sequential Write
  • 25GbE x2 = 3313MB/s Sequential Read, 3231MB/s Sequential Write

Note – RAID Volume: RAID 50 (8 bay and above), RAID 5 (4 bay to 6-bay), RAID 1 (2 bay), Single (1 bay). SSD / HDD : Fully populated, Samsung 860 EVO 1TB SATA SSD / Seagate ST1000NM0033 1TB HDD / Samsung PM9A1 960GB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 / Samsung PM9A3 (MZQL2960HCJR-00A07) 960GB U.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4

However, the above stats have seen an upgrade, since the release of newer high-performance media, improved network adapters and how the system can bond multiple connections. The QNAP TVS-h874T benefits from the advancement in this technology in the year since the non-Thunderbolt version arrived with the following performance over 25GbE optional network adapters:

RAID 50, Fully populated, Samsung 860 EVO 1TB SATA SSD / Seagate ST1000NM0033 1TB HDD / Samsung PM9A1 960GB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 / Samsung PM9A3 (MZQL2960HCJR-00A07) 960GB U.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4

Obviously, these are official stats and your own individual performance is going to be different (different storage media, RAID config, client hardware, file sizes, etc), but given these figures are based on SATA storage and do not even factor in the performance of storage pools made of those M.2 NVMe SSDs over PCIe 4×4 (so 6-7GB performance potential, which is where 100GbE cards start to become useful), these are still incredible performance figures!

The QNAP TVS-h874T also arrives with an HDMI output that can be used in conjunction with QNAP HD Station to create a completely parallel external GUI. This GUI has its own range of 1st and 3d party applications available that span a large number of services – Multimedia, office work, surveillance, standalone PC use and more. All the while, with QuTS/QTS running on the NAS with ALL its services still running. Oddly, the HDMI port is HDMI 1.4b, which means that although it will output 1080p at 60FPS, it will cap 4K at 30FPS. This aside, the QNAP TVS-h874T also benefits from HD Station, a parallel GUI that runs with QTS/QUTS to deploy numerous applications with a visual output. There are several key applications in the QNAP lineup that can take advantage of this feature, such as Photo, Music and Video station, as well as allowing a standalone Surveillance station with KVM support and even running a standalone PC with a connected keyboard and mouse. This is joined with several 3rd party apps for multimedia, office tools and communication. This combined with the wide range of unofficial third-party tools in the homebrew site ‘QNAP Club’ results in a tremendously versatile additional use for your NAS.

That said, HD Station in QTS/QuTS has received fewer improvements in recent years compared with other apps in the brand’s lineup, leading to several apps becoming less stable or simply unusable when connected with QTS/QuTS (eg QuMagie on QuTS and Photo Station on HD Station being largely uncommunicative). Its a shame, because aside from Asustor, QNAP is still one of the few brands to offer this feature on their platform and for those of you looking to directly output the media to a 4K TV (with a remote control over IR, USB or over the network with QRemote) it will result in a less polished experience. Alongside the HDMI output, the NAS also features USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) ports. This means that alongside the support of a wide range of accessories and expansion devices,  you can connect 1,000MB/s external storage – VERY useful for those that want to add a convenient and affordable USB backup to their existing multi-tier backup strategy. Indeed, the range of expansions that are supported by the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS are pretty broad, ranging from 2-Bays, all the way upto mixed media 16-Bays!

However, the biggest potential upgrade/scalability element of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS that we still need to discuss is the PCIe Upgrade slots. Thanks to the 12th gen Intel Core that this NAS arrives with, the main PCIe upgrade slots are PCIe Gen 4×4 and (wait for it) PCIe Gen 4 x16!!! This means that one slot has a potential 8,000MB/s of bandwidth available to a connected card, and the other has a staggering 32,000MB/s available. Just to put that in perspective, a 10GbE will need 1000MB/s of bandwidth to allow full saturation. You could install a dual port 100GbE network upgrade card in this slot and there would STILL be more than a third of the available bandwidth potential remaining untapped!

The support of PCIe Gen 4 in the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS is something that puts this system into a whole different tier of storage compared with all other 8-Bay Desktop NAS systems right now, with the bulk of them arriving with PCIe Gen 3 or even PCIe Gen 2. These two PCIe 4 upgrade slots AND the two M.2 NVMe PCIe4 M.2 NVMe slots mean that you have the potential to comfortably hit internal performance numbers with those two SSD drives that dwarf anything the eight SATA drives (even with SSDs) could ever hit. For video editors that are considering a NAS for post-production in multiple 4K video edits and/or beginning with 8K in their workflow, this is the kind of setup that you need to be looking at!

This is made even easier to achieve when you loo through the official QNAP QM2 upgrade card range. The cards, with several new PCIe4 entries, allow to to scale things up in your storage even further with some featuring 4x PCIe 4×4 M.2 NVMe SSD bays or even a 2x 10GbE and 2x PCIe4 M.2 NVMe SSD Combo card. Currently there is no sign of a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 Card (as seen in the TVS-872XT or TVS-h1288X), but this might well be down to the continued shortage of Thunderbolt components right now (as the Intel Core 12th Gen family has complete TB4 Compatibility).

Overall, when it comes to the connectivity of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS, the default range of external connections are actually quite pedestrian when compared against other QNAP NAS released in the last 1-2 years, with the lack of 10GbE on the default model (aside from the Intel i9 having 2x 10GBASE-T at a premium) is pretty surprising/disappointing. That said, the scalability and upgradability that the QNAP TVS-h874T affords the end user are pretty incredible and unparalleled on ANY other desktop NAS right now. Let’s get our screwdriver and take a good look at the inside of this NAS.

The WORLD’S FIRST Thunderbolt 4 NAS – But Should You Care?

As previously mentioned, the QNAP TVS-h874 is technically not a new NAS system, but rather upgrades the existing TVS-h874 with Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. QNAP is now well into technically its fourth or fifth generation (depending on how you look at these things) of Thunderbolt NAS equipped solutions, providing a direct and convenient connection between the NAS and a Thunderbolt client system (supporting both Windows and macOS). The Thunderbolt ports are connected via a PCIe card that inhabits one of the slots, but luckily only occupies the lower speed PCIe slot and not the larger and more capable x16 slot. These ports allow up to two simultaneous users to connect with the TVS-h874 NAS directly, cable to cable, as well as allowing the system to continue to be accessed via traditional network and remote internet means for hundreds of users. As these are rear-mounted ports, you are going to need slightly longer cable considerations, as well as factoring in the ambient system noise when in close proximity. The general system operation noise is fairly average for a metal enclosure eight-drive NAS, but once you factor in larger capacity hard drives above 8TB and more enterprise-class drives for performance, this ambient operational noise is definitely going to be more of a consideration for those working in close quarters with the system.

When connecting the device to your Mac or Windows system over Thunderbolt, as long as you have QNAP Qfinder Pro software installed, the system will prompt you to state that it sees that the system has been connected and invite you to mount the drive in a similar fashion to that of a network drive. You will not need to format the QNAP system in order for it to appear, and during the drive initialization over Thunderbolt, you will be invited to map this drive alongside your existing OS client hardware storage locally. When interfacing with the QNAP via this cable, you can access the storage inside at a typical object file and folder level, but you can also access the full QNAP QTS and QuTS GUI just as you would when accessing the NAS via the network or internet.

Performance numbers when connecting with the device over Thunderbolt will depend heavily on several factors. Similar to connecting a traditional Direct Attached Storage (DAS) RAID device, Thunderbolt is just the connection between your client device and the storage. You will need to ensure you have a sufficient number of storage drives and an appropriate RAID configuration to get the best performance possible. In the case of this 8-bay device, if you use high-capacity, more affordable but slower mechanical hard drives, you will need to populate quite a few to start seeing higher performance numbers as multiple drives are being read and written to simultaneously. Likewise, there are ways to improve performance further with the use of SATA SSDs and/or using PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs in the available slots inside the system. These drives provide significantly higher performance but generally come in smaller capacities and at a higher price point. In reality, the QNAP TVS-h874 does not need to be fully populated on day one, and you can start with two or three drives and gradually, over the years, increase your number of drives one by one. Just bear in mind that the real performance this system can output can only be achieved when utilizing the fastest storage media or fully populating the device. Additionally, there is the fact that this system utilizes IP over Thunderbolt architecture to create a Thunderbolt-connected NAS, leading to a significant performance difference compared to traditional direct attached storage systems. Below are some peak performance numbers from QNAP using the highest performance media available:

 

However, we cannot escape the fact that many users considering this device for photo and video editing are not going to be too sure about the main differences between Thunderbolt NAS and Thunderbolt DAS, as there are more to the differences than just performance. Expanding on the key factors from the comparison between Thunderbolt 4 DAS and Thunderbolt 4 NAS:

  • Connectivity: The QNAP TVS-h874’s support for both Thunderbolt 4 and 3 stands out as a significant feature, offering flexibility and future-proofing. This dual compatibility ensures that the NAS can seamlessly integrate with current devices while being ready for future technological advancements, making it a long-term investment for users looking to upgrade their client devices to Thunderbolt 4 in the future.
  • Cross-Platform File Sharing: NAS systems, unlike DAS, provide a versatile solution for environments utilizing multiple operating systems. This is particularly beneficial in professional settings where Windows, Mac, and Linux systems coexist. The NAS’s ability to facilitate easy file sharing and access across these platforms without compatibility issues greatly enhances workflow efficiency and collaboration.
  • Multi-User Environment: NAS systems are specifically designed to cater to environments where multiple users need to access and share data simultaneously. This is in contrast to DAS, which is primarily focused on single-user access. NAS systems can handle multiple data requests efficiently, making them ideal for collaborative settings like offices, creative studios, and data centers.
  • Expandability: NAS offers more robust options for expanding storage capacity over time compared to DAS. This includes the ability to add more drives, utilize additional expansion units, and leverage advanced storage technologies like M.2 NVMe SSDs. Such expandability is crucial for businesses and power users who anticipate growing data storage needs.
  • Price and Hardware: The advanced capabilities of NAS, including support for extensive user access, higher storage capacities, and sophisticated data management, require more powerful hardware. This includes faster processors, more memory, and better cooling solutions, which contribute to the higher cost of NAS systems compared to DAS, which is typically more basic in its hardware requirements.
  • Performance: While DAS offers high-speed, straightforward access for individual users, making it ideal for tasks that require fast data transfer rates without the need for complex networking, NAS systems are optimized for multi-user access and offer a range of services and applications. NAS systems may not match the raw speed of DAS for single users but provide a more versatile and scalable solution for data storage and access in a networked environment.

Each point highlights the specific advantages and considerations of choosing between Thunderbolt DAS and NAS, catering to different user requirements and scenarios.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The internal arrangement of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS is actually surprisingly spacious for an 8-Bay desktop NAS with so much hardware potential. The main 8 bays obviously take up the bulk of the available space, but the first thing that strikes you is that there is a great deal more spacing between the components for that airflow.

The rear fans lead to a completely open area behind the main storage bays that takes up around 30-35% of the available chassis space and there is an additional side fan that blows air directly onto the massive silver CPU heatsink at all times.  The main SATA bays are held in an aluminium cage and the PSU is pretty far away from the main PCIe upgrade slots (something of a problem in the older TVS-1282 and TVS-h1288X that made card installation and maintaining cool running a little more challenging).

That silver heatsink (common in 24×7 server systems as opposed to direct CPU fans) is pretty vast and (especially in the case of the 12 Core i7 and 16 Core i9) very much needed! It is also directly vented in line with the separate rear fan, ensuring that it is taking maximum advantage of the active airflow.

Now, as good and fast as the CPU and architecture inside the QNAP TVS-874 NAS is, the way that the specs and choice of hardware in the greater TVS-hx74 range has been distributed is a little less smooth. With a 4-Bay, 6-Bay and 8-Bay version available, you would be forgiven for thinking that it is just three separate configurations on offer. However, the reality is that there are SIX different hardware versions available (spanning five different CPUs, scaling in clock speed, cores and threads) with differing default memory quantities. We already covered that the Intel i9 version also arrives with 2x 10GbE connectivity (absent in other devices and using a PCIe slot). Normally, I would be a fan of the buyer’s option to scale their budget between storage bays and power, but despite all these systems using 12th Gen Intel Processors, each processor has a different level of PCI lanes afforded to it and this then impacts the rest of the system architecture. Let’s quickly compare the hardware architecture of the three NAS systems and their sub-versions:

Feature TVS-h474 TVS-h674 TVS-h874T
# of SATA Bays 4x SATA 6x SATA 8x SATA
M.2 NVMe Bays 2x M.2 (Gen 3×2) 2x M.2 (Gen 4×4) 2x M.2 (Gen 4×4)
CPU Intel Pentium Gold G7400 Intel i5 12th Gen i5-12400

Intel i3 12th Gen i7-12100

Intel i9 12th Gen i9-12900

Intel i7 12th Gen i7-12700

Intel i5 12th Gen i7-12400

Cores 2-Core / 4 Thread i5 6 Core / 12 Thread

i3 4 Core / 8 Thread

i9 16 Core / 24 Thread

i7 12 Core / 20 Thread

i5 6 Core / 12 Thread

CPU Speed 3.7 Ghz i5 Max 4.4Ghz

i3 Max 4.3Ghz

i9 Max 5.1Ghz

i7 Max 4.9Ghz

i5 Max 4.4Ghz

Graphics Intel UHD Graphics 710 Intel UHD Graphics 770

Intel UHD Graphics 730

Intel UHD Graphics 770
Memory 8GB Default 16/32GB 32/64GB
Memory Max 128GB SODIMM DDR4 (2 Slot) 128GB SODIMM DDR4 (2 Slot) 128GB SODIMM DDR4 (2 Slot)

If we skip over the difference in the actual traditional CPU power (which is expected if you were comparing a Pentium and i3 versus an i9), the hurdles start when you notice that the TVS-h474 has Gen 3×2 M.2 slots, whereas the 6-Bay and 8-Bay have Gen 4×4 – so potential bandwidth of 2,000MB vs 8,000MB/s. The same goes for the main PCIe upgrade lanes, with the 4 Bay having that massive PCIe 4 x 16 slot, but the 2nd slot is another Gen 3 x2 2,000MB/s slot. These are very small details, but they could have been easily avoided by either fixing the TVS-h474 with an i3 minimum OR just releasing the series in a fixed CPU=Bay standard (as observed in the TVS-X72 and TVS-1282 ranges). With 3 version of the 8-Bay, two of the 6 Bay and the 4-Bay being very overshadows, the narrative and presentation of the range gets a little messy. Then you can take a closer look at the CPUs themselves and how they scale up.

As you can see, even ignoring the frequency differences (whooah, the Pentium dual core at 3.7Ghz and the i9 at 16 Core 5.1Ghz when pushed to burst), even CPU Benchmark’s scoring of these processors is pretty vast, with the Intel Pentium Gold G7400 in the TVS-h474 scoring 6804, and every other CPU several times higher! Yes, we also need to factor in the running costs of these SSDs (24×7 use on such high-end CPUs is going to add up on the electricity bill), but I would argue that when you are looking at systems like these, you have long since given up aspirations of power saving! The memory that the TVS-h874T arrives with is DDR4 3200Mhz SODIMM and can be upgraded towards 64GB officially, though the CPUs (for the most part) all support up to 128GB on two channels. Sadly, ECC memory is not supported, which is one of the few counter-arguments out there (IMO) for opting for a XEON over an Intel Core in a system like this one. That said, this is still a great level of memory supported by the system and although the base amount changes depending on the system bay number and CPU type you choose (grumble, grumble), I cannot really fault it!

Now, the big guns! Those M.2 NVMe SSD Bays. M.2 NVMe SSD bays on NAS devices are not a ‘new thing’. Indeed, these have been a staple of desktop NAS devices now for a few years and something of an expected minimum. However, the development that has been going on with M.2 NVMes from SSD brands such as WD, Seagate and Samsung has been rather fierce (with the tiniest pinch of slow down caused by the pandemic and hardware shortages relating to semiconductors). Pretty much 99% of all NAS devices that have M.2 NVMe SSD bays are using PCIe Gen 3 (or even PCIe Gen2) slots. This is down to only CPUs that were released commercially in the last 2-3 years having support of PCIe Gen 4 lanes. As the TVS-x874 series and it’s 12th Gen Intel Core architecture have Gen 4 support, the M.2 slots (with the exception of the TVS-h474) are Gen 4×4 – so 8GB/s (not Gigabit, GigaByte) of bandwidth each! This is a huge deal, as that means you can install these super fast SSDs in these bays for your QNAP QuTS ZFS Operating System, for individual Apps/Services (VMs, Databases, etc) and even as your general storage!

The good news is that unlike Synology and its inclusion of M.2 NVMe SSD slots, the 2280 slots inside the QNAP can be used for more than just read/write caching. The use of SSD caching to provide performance benefits to a slower, but larger and more affordable Hard Drive RAID away are quite well established in the NAS industry, using the SSD space to either write files to the system faster (acting as the primary write area, before moving the data) or increase the speed of accessing commonly requested files on the NAS (making copies of those files onto the SSDs, though largely tiny files are optimized and do not really affect larger block/sequential data). So, if you are looking to use this drive in the centre of your content creation workflow or in post production, you could use the 2 M.2 NVMe SSD Bays as your editing space (acting the NAS over 10-25-100GbE via an upgrade card – perhaps even Thunderbolt 3/4 if/when QNAP release one), and the HDD RAID array as your archive that products back up/archive onto. You can even create individual ZFS RAID pools for warm-cold storage, then also use a remote NAS, USB or Cloud space to sync/backup with too. Thanks to features like WORM, Non-Linear Editing (NLE) and locking, you can ensure that data is not edited by more than one user, with the added benefits of using the QNAP programs such as QSync to create native synced NAS folders on your client devices (iOs, Mac, Windows, Android, Linux – with cross-platform sharing) so that other teams of people can work with the data on the NAS. In testing on the TVS-h874T with a Seagate Firecuda 530 and WD Black SN850 M.2 SSD (both Gen 4) we were able to hit 6.49GB/s and 6.18GB/s Sequential Read respectively in the QNAP Storage Manager Benchmark Tool. That is approx 27 TIMES the speed of a conventional NAS hard drive!

However, though the QNAP TVS-h874T supports SSD caching on these bays, it also supports their use in QTier (if you opt for QTS / EXT4 at initialization). This is similar to caching but in QTier the available HDD and SSDs are combined into a single storage area and it intelligently moves files periodically to the appropriate storage media as it analyzes their access and requests. Finally, if you wish, you can use the NVMe SSD bays for just a fast accessing and performing storage pool and volumes of it’s own. These two bays, plus the main SATA HDD bays, plus adding a PCIe SSD storage card in an available slot means that the TVS-h874T has enormous storage potential. These m.2 bays can also be used for system upgrades, but these are still quite few in reality and it is only the google TPU m.2 upgrade that increases AI system processes that are recommended in 2022/2023 so far.

I am well aware of how much I have been ‘banging the drum’ about PCIe 4 architecture in this review, but I cannot overstate how future-proof this makes the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS! It is a shame that the TVS-h874T suffers something of a presentation hurdle for the less technically versed who need to take some time to bone up on the range of specs before choosing the right model, but that does not really detur from the fact that the TVS-h874T NAS arrives with the best desktop NAS hardware I have ever seen! Let’s discuss those software and services found in QuTS and QTS 5 that are included with this NAS server.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Software & Services

Alongside the hardware of the TVS-h874T NAS, you also receive the complete software and services package of QNAP QTS or QuTS (currently in version 5.0.1) that can be selected at the initialization. This is a complete operating system. similar in design and presentation to Windows 11 and Android OS, it runs hundreds of applications, services and functions, as well as arriving with many mobile and desktop client applications that allow you to interact with the data on your NAS in a much more tailored way. Alongside this, the QNAP QuTS/QTS software on the TVS-h874T also includes a few extra SSD tools for anti-wearing on SSDs, better ZFS-HDD/SSD profiling and even options to separate the media into storage, caching or tiered storage where appropriate. The performance and services of QTS have been covered many times on this channel, so reviewing it’s individual performance on the TVS-h874T NAS is a difficult task, as we have to look at two key things. Is QTS/QuTS a good software platform and is QTS/QuTS going to give you support of the full range of services that you intend to use this NAS for, in both 1st and 3rd party?

On the first score, I can comfortably say that QNAP NAS software and services have truly come into their own and the balancing act of supplying the end-user with the flexibility to use the system ‘their way’, whilst still keeping it user-friendly is the best it has ever been. Is it perfect, no. In its efforts to make itself customizable in every way possible, QTS/QuTS develops an inadvertent learning curve that may catch some novice users unaware. Likewise, although QTS/QuTS 5 has done a lot of work on its presentation of information and notifications, there is still the odd moment of ‘TMI’ when switching between services on the fly. QNAP’s NAS software is still easily one of the most adaptable in the market right now and allows users to have a truly unique storage environment if they choose and although not quite as user-friendly as Synology DSM, it counters this by being fantastically flexible by comparison (from file/folder structure to 3rd party services support and connectivity). That said, 2022 had a bumpy start for the brand when a series of ransomware attacks were targetted at the brand (them and several other NAS brands) that was caused by a combination of vulnerabilities in Linux (which practically all NAS and Android software is built upon) but also in how applications in the QNAP platform were allowed to have external access. In previous revisions of QTS/QuTS, customization and guidance for changing settings on the system was made very easy and open but lacked a lot of the gravitas and significance that these changes made to the system being highlighted to less experienced users (such as allowing the QNAP to adapt remote ports on your router over UPnP and how the HBS3 program allowed remote access. These omissions, vulnerabilities and communication issues in QTS have seemingly been resolved and QTS/QuTS 5 seems to be a much tighter system on the whole (as much as anything can be once you open it to the internet). But many users still feel that the brand needs to do more and therefore until QNAP can remove the lingering stories of ransomware and malware over time, this is always going to be an existing sensitive issue for buyers. In order to see the extent of the latest version of QNAP TS 5.0 use the links below to the written review and video below released in late 2021 (QuTS 5.1 Review coming in the next week or so):

FULL Written QNAP QTS 5 Review FULL Video Review of QNAP QTS 5

Although the full review of QNAP QTS is available in the article and video linked above, let’s discuss the highlights of the platform. First off there are the software and services for managing files and folders on the fly. QTS/QuTS includes several tools for managing files in your web browser (with full copy, paste, archive, extract, sharing, etc options built-in), as well as smart system/file search functionality. It is worth noting that 95% of the apps and services in either QuTS and QTS are identical, but there are a few exceptions that are restricted to either version for reasons of file system architecture and end-user. For example, as QuTS is ZFS based, it does not require the volume layer and writes are committed directly to the storage pool of drives.

The security when using your TVS-h874T NAS (again, a continued area of contention and criticism for QNAP in the past) in terms of customization and alerts have been noticeably improved and upgraded in both their deployment and presentation in QTS. These range from a multi-layered security advisor to control anti-malware scans, anti-virus schedules, firewall monitoring and more. There is also a range of access and security credential tools that are quite far-reaching all built-in. With QNAP having to prove its platform is safe more than most, there is a bit shift positively in this direction in the latest versions of QTS.

Overall storage management, access, mounting and how this factors into backups have also been massively diversified in QTS and along with numerous means to create a very unique storage system (factoring RAID, multi-stage 1-2-3 backups, connecting with cloud drive/objects and how this is presented to the end-users are incredibly deep. It can lead to a situation in which the end-user is a pinch overwhelmed, but you cannot say that QNAP is not providing the tools – they are just almost TOO numerous in their presentation.

The same goes for multimedia handling on the QNAP TVS-h874T, with a wide range of tools for handing photos, music and video in a tailored GUI to each media type. This is made considerably easier with QNAP’s multimedia console tool that provides a single GUI that can be used to handle all the backend setup of all your individual media apps. QNAP also provides AI photo recognition to allow decades of photos to be searched intelligently for people and subjects to quite an impressively deep degree (not needing internet access to do so, with the AI onboard the system). Then you have support for a wide range of 3rd party multimedia tools such as Plex media server, Emby, Twinky and Kodi (unofficially).

Then you have business tools (small, medium or even enterprise) included that can range from the deployment of multiple virtual machines across many platforms and a dedicated 1st party container deployment tool. One very unique feature of QNAP QTS compared with other NAS brands in their deployment of VMs is that they include 2-3 click download options in their respective applications that allow you to download ready to use VM in Windows 7,8 and 10, as well as a VM market place for more enterprise virtual clients and even a Ubuntu 18/19/20 VM deployment tool that allows you to quickly set up a VM and then access remotely OR use the HDMI+KVM set up locally. The container station tool also has its own pre-built tool repository too.

Finally, for surveillance use, the TVS-h874T arrives with QVR Pro which allows you to have a business-class surveillance platform hosted on your NAS. This platform has its very own GUI that supports thousands of IP Camera brands, as well as the software arriving with 8 camera licenses with the TVS-h874T, a multi-camera feed display, intelligent alerts, AI services (hardware appropriate), multiple client tools for mobile/desktop clients, integration of 3rd party system management tools and you can even attach USB cameras to your QNAP NAS and have local cameras fed into the NAS too. HOWEVER, if you want to use the QuTS ZFS platform, you will need to use the QVR Elite program which is much more hardware efficient and allows bigger surveillance setups BUT reduces the included Camera licences from 8x to 2x. Additionally, the approach towards the camera licence validity period in QVR Elite is different to that of QVR PRO.

So, software on the QNAP TVS-h874T is pretty diverse and although the brand has seen its fair share of security complaints in the past, I think that it would be hard for me to ignore the range of NAS hardware configuration, services and tools that are included.  Tests of the QNAP TVS-h874T on how it performs as a Plex Media Server, host for Virtual Machines and more will be conducted shortly over on NASCompares YouTube channel. I recommend visiting there to learn more. Below is the short ‘Before You Buy’ video review for the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS (Hour Long video review coming very soon.

QNAP TVS-h874T NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

In summarizing the capabilities and potential of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS, released as a late 2023 update to its predecessor, it’s clear that this system represents a significant leap forward in desktop NAS technology. Priced over £2500, it’s a substantial investment, designed with future-proofing in mind. The TVS-h874T not only maintains the longevity and high-end status of the TVS-h874 but also brings to the table enhanced direct data access through Thunderbolt 4 integration. This advancement, supporting IP over Thunderbolt protocol, significantly boosts connectivity and speed, making the system an ideal choice for demanding tasks such as 8K video editing and high-performance computing needs in business environments. However, the question of whether Thunderbolt NAS is the right fit for all users remains. For those requiring high-speed, multi-user access and scalability, the TVS-h874T is a strong contender. Its support for the latest PCIe 4 standards ensures compatibility with high-performance upgrades, reinforcing its position as a future-proof investment. The software, featuring QTS and QuTS, might require some acclimatization, particularly for those familiar with simpler systems like Synology’s DSM. Yet, the benefits, especially for ZFS enthusiasts, are undeniable, offering advanced RAID management and a plethora of applications and services.

The TVS-h874T’s stance on open hardware and software compatibility is a significant plus in an industry increasingly leaning towards proprietary systems. It accommodates a range of third-party hardware and software, adding to its versatility. In the face of growing concerns over NAS security, the system is well-equipped with comprehensive tools and settings for enhanced security and data protection, addressing the pressing issue of ransomware attacks. In conclusion, the QNAP TVS-h874T stands out as an exceptional choice for businesses and power users who require a robust, scalable, and secure NAS solution. It offers an excellent balance of price, performance, and features, making it a worthy investment for those seeking top-tier server-side capabilities. However, for users with simpler storage needs or those not requiring the advanced features of Thunderbolt NAS, traditional Thunderbolt DAS devices might be a more suitable and cost-effective option. The TVS-h874T, with its advanced capabilities, is undoubtedly a powerhouse in NAS technology, but its full benefits will be best realized by those whose requirements align closely with what this advanced system has to offer.

PROs of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS CONs of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS
Only brand rolling out i9 Turnkey NAS
Only NAS Rolling out Thunderbolt4 NAS (for now!)
Upto 20 Cores, 24 Threads and High End Integrated Graphics
PCIe Gen 4 x16 Upgrade Slot for 10/25/100GbE Cards and 2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe Slots for 7GB SSDs
No Obstinant 3rd Party Hardware Limitations on Support or Compatibility
Much larger support of 3rd Party Software Services than most other NAS Brands
10Gb/s USB Connectivity, in Type A and Type C
Upto 64GB of Memory
ZFS or EXT 4 File System Choice
M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Storage or Caching
Volume Encryption, SED SSD Support and WORM
Enhanced AI Surveillance Services, with opt to upgrade with $30 Google TPU
AI Photo Management Tool (QuMagie) Includes Thing Recognition and works offline
ALL the ZFS Benefits, whilst also the GUI and App benefits of a Linux Software Platform in one
No Smaller 4-Bay Version
QVR Elite (not QVR Pro) only has 2 Cam Licences
Lack of ECC Memory will annoy some users
10Gbe is Missing (so no TB-TO-10GbE Pass-through)
Too Many licenses on Enterprise Tools (Drive Analyzer, Face Tiger, etc) with too few free licenses

Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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Black Friday 2023 – Synology NAS Deal Checker

Par : Rob Andrews
23 novembre 2023 à 15:00

Synology NAS Bargains and Deals this Black Friday 2023

Black Friday is here again and for many of you, this is the final decider on whether you are going to finally buy your very own Synology NAS or upgrade that old DS411+ or DS216+ that is starting to show its age. Synology has been focusing considerably more on rackmount NAS solutions in 2023 and the few desktop (Diskstation) NAS solutions that have arrived on the market have been either fantastically enterprise or currently regional exclusives at this time. This means that the majority of their desktop NAS solutions have been on the market now for more than a year each (some in the 18+ series have been around for quite a while longer!) and therefore there is considerable scope for the current range to have a number of great discounts available in the Black Friday 2023 sale. We predict that the likes of the DS423+ and DS923+ all-rounder NAS’ will likely be the star of the show in terms of deals, but given that the DS118, DS218 and DS418 were recently refreshed with 2023/2024 models, these might also be very discounted at e-retailers to clear stock. Below I have detailed the Top 3 Synology NAS for backups, plex, business, surveillance and value. Each with links to amazon and their discount warehouse (which will be on an extra 20% discount during Black Friday 2023). Alongside this, I will also be updating this page regularly during Black Friday adding links to deals as they go live throughout the week of Black Friday, from Tuesday 11th October to Wednesday 12th October 2023.

Recommended Synology NAS 2023/2024

————–  Useful Links  —————

US Amazon Amazon USA Black Friday Official PageAmazon UK Black Friday Official Page

Amazon Warehouse (20% Off Everything on Black Friday)

USA – UK – Germany

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


TOP Synology NAS Deals to Watch Out For on Black Friday 2023

Below are the three Synology entries that are almost certain to be on sale this Black Friday at your normal online shop (not just Amazon).

  • Synology DS923+ NAS Drive – Released at the tail end of 2022, the Synology DS923+ is pretty much the tipping point NAS for users looking at the Synology NAS platform that want scalability, upgradability and performance BUT do not want to go nuts on the price, physical size and impact in their home or office. The follow-up to the remarkably popular DS920+, the DS923+ is a NAS that focuses more on performance inside and out, as well as supporting the FULL rang of DSM 7.2 services!. Find it HERE.
  • Synology DS220+ NAS – Originally released in summer 2020, the Synology DS220+ was one of the stand-out popular NAS choices of that series, as it presented affordable access to the Synology DSM Platform, Plex 4K performance and in a compact/low-impact design, whilst still doing so without the compromise that is generally associated with more affordable solutions. However, in the years that have passed, Synology have refreshed this model with the newer DS224+  and this will almost certainly result in stock of the DS220+ being reduced in price, with Black Friday 2023 being a great time to do so! Find it HERE.
  • Synology DS118, DS218 & DS418 NAS – The standard/value series from Synology (the Realtek 64bit family) has been in circulation as far back as 2017 and is long overdue for a refresh. That said, Synology has continued to support it, providing it with DSM 7.2, BTRFS at the 2GB level and it can still handle Plex, backups, surveillance and native 4K transcoding well in 2023. However, in early 2023, we saw Synology begin to refresh all of these models with a new 2023/2024 series (the DS223, DS423 and DS124) and that means that all these devices, running on a still very capable CPU+Memory combo, will see discounts in order to clear stock. Additionally, these devices will still support DSM 7.2 for many years to come! A real potential bargain! Find it HERE.
Synology DS923+ NAS Drive

Synology DS224+ NAS

Synology DS118, DS218 & DS418 NAS


Black Friday 2023 – Synology NAS Drives for PLEX

One of the big appeals of a Synology NAS drive is to use it as a Plex Media Server. Plex (if you didn’t know) is just as slick, fast and beautiful in design as Netflix, Prime Video and HBO Now, but instead of streaming/renting your content, you play the movies, tv shows and music that you own! Having your own Plex Media Server Synology NAS is fantastically appealing and a much more financially appealing choice than paying monthly for content you do not get to own. Below are the best 3 Synology NAS deals this Black Friday for a Plex Media Server in 2023.

Synology DS423+ 4-Bay NAS

There are two ways we need to look at the Synology DS423+ NAS. In one way, the Synology DS423+ DOES support all of the features and services that users demanded in a fully-featured home/prosumer solution. It features an Intel Quad Core processor with embedded graphics, DDR4 memory, multiple gigabit ports, wide HDD/SSD compatibility and m.2 NVMe SSD support. These are all things popular and most certainly what users would want/expect in a fully featured home/prosumer solution (aka SOHO). Then, when you roll in DSM 7 and it’s enormous range of software and services, the DS423+ is an excellent NAS solution that counters a broad range of criticisms that were leveled at the DS923+ at launch. However, there is, of course, the unavoidable way that most long-term Synology users and those looking to upgrade an existing 2016/2018 Diskstation are going to look at the DS423+ – a Synology DS920+ with less memory and no expandability! For those that skipped the DSx20+ generation, the DS423+ is going to feel decidedly underwhelming at best and hugely disappointing at worst! Synology has made no bones that they prioritize their software and services, with hardware being an important but nevertheless secondary concern. The main criticism is that CPU being the same processor used in the 3 years previous generation. Intel has moved production away from the J4125 themselves several times (with most other NAS brands using the N5105 or J6412 right now) and although Synology has been known to move CPU architecture down through the generations previously, this is a particularly egregious example. Overall, this si still the best affordable option right now for users looking at an all-encompassing Plex Media Server NAS solution from Synology in a compact form.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology 4-Bay DS423+ Diskstation Amazon usa USA 69.4 OFF (WAS 622) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 16TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 4TB HAT5300 D Amazon UK UK 164.91 OFF (WAS 1568) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 32TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 8TB HAT5300 D Amazon UK UK 350.29 OFF (WAS 2345) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 72TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 18TB HAT5300 Amazon UK UK 583.58 OFF (WAS 4422) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Synology DS1821+ 8-Bay NAS

I have always been a long-term fan of the Synology brand as a whole, applauding their recent moves towards Ryzen processors and range-wide adoption of dedicated M2 NVMe cache bays. However, the Synology DS1821+, much like the DS1621+, is a giant leap in many ways and the smallest of stumbles in others. The switch from Atom to Ryzen embedded processor needs to be recognised for both the big jump it is from a brand that typically errs on the side of caution in hardware. Likewise, the inclusion of ECC memory, massive potential-filled PCIe expandability at PCIe 3 x8 and support of popular services like Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) are certainly a plus. But many buyers will be put off by the continued adoption of 1Gbe as standard and the limitation of those NVMe bays to caching ONLY and not raw storage pools. With a price tag without storage media at around £1,000 (give or take), this is a big ask to pay for something that has lucrative software potential but arguably lesser hardware potential. In short, I do really like the Synology DS1821+ NAS, I just don’t know how long I could be in love with it long-term, as the rest of my network hardware environment embraces faster connectivity.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?


These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Synology DS1621xs+ 6-Bay NAS

Whatever way you look at it, you cannot what question the sheer level of hardware value present in the DS1621xs+, especially compared with other similarly priced Synology NAS. In the DS1621xs+, you find one of the best performing internal and external NAS systems in the entire Synology portfolio, as well as providing you with an enterprise rackmount grade solution in a desktop form. I know it seems like a big statement, but this could genuinely be one of the best examples of what Synology provide to business users and certainly reorganises the portfolio for small and medium business users for the better in 2023/2023. Is it perfect, of course not, few things ever can be. But if your budget can extend to it, the Synology DS1621xs+ easily represents the very best of everything that Synology has to offer, while still maintaining a fantastic high standard to third-party software users worldwide.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?


These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Black Friday 2023 – Lowest Priced Synology NAS Drives

If you are new to Synology NAS and don’t want to spend much this Black Friday, then that’s ok. Synology has a great selection of fantastically low price NAS available to buy this Black Friday in 1 hard drive, 2 hard drive and 4 hard drive sizes. Below is the best 3 Budget NAS that Synology features this Black Friday 2023:

Synology DS120J 1-Bay NAS

With the release of the new DS120j NAS, when it comes to buying your first network-attached storage device there are several reasons why the Synology range appeals to many. With a diverse range of hardware and storage options across a wide series of uses, as well as an impressive range of first-party applications, Synology has fast become one of the biggest names in the NAS. However, so many users have one tiny problem with most Synology devices, namely the price tag. In terms of overall price, you will find that a Synology NAS typically is around 15 to 20% more expensive than most other brands with the same hardware (we will leave software out of the equation for a bit). Added to this is the fact that most buyers looking to buy their first unit are nervous in spending large sums of money on a largely unexplored area of technology. Luckily Synology has already addressed this problem before with the inclusion of a budget range of devices that serves as a fantastic introduction point to network-attached storage and the Synology Diskstation Manager (DSM) system software.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology DS120j 4 TB 1 Bay NAS Solution | Installed with 1 x 4 TB Western Digita Amazon UK UK 65.56 OFF (WAS 332) [LINK]
Synology DS120j/10TB N300 1 Bay Desktop Amazon UK UK 8.47 OFF (WAS 344) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Synology DS223J 2-Bay NAS

The Synology DS223j NAS is not the most powerful NAS drive, or the most fully-featured NAS drive – but the point is that it is not trying to be! Synology has held an exceptionally good reputation in the world of network-attached storage for a decade and if a new NAS buyer wanted to cautiously invest in a new piece of equipment in this area, then despite their modest budget, they will want to get the best they can for their money, from a brand with an established pedigree – THAT is what the Synology DS223j NAS is trying to achieve and for the most part, it completely succeeds! Aside from the memory being a touch light on the ground and the white chassis not being to everyone’s taste, in almost every other regard the DS223j is a great little NAS drive that any first time NAS users, or those making the jump from subscription cloud services like Google Drive and DropBox, are going to enjoy. Just keep an eye on the number of active users and tasks at any given time and you will be on to a winner here. Bonus, this system arrives with twice the amount of memory than previous releases in the 2 Bay J family (more than a decade long!).

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j NAS #Prime Amazon usa USA $154.99 [LINK]
Synology DS223J 2 Bay Desktop NAS, White Amazon UK UK 8.75 OFF (WAS 175) [LINK]
Synology DiskStation DS223J Network Storage Drive (White) Amazon UK UK 4.53 OFF (WAS 316) [LINK]
Synology DS223j 2-Bay Diskstation NAS (Realtek RTD1619B 4-Core 1.7 GHz 1GB DDR4 Amazon UK UK 7.62 OFF (WAS 594) [LINK]
Synology DS223j 2-Bay Diskstation NAS (Realtek RTD1619B 4-Core 1.7 GHz 1GB DDR4 Amazon UK UK 9.38 OFF (WAS 744) [LINK]

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Synology DS420J 4-Bay NAS

Although this device will only cost you around £465 ex.VAT with 4x 2TB hard drives (Seagate Ironwolf NAS Drives) included, it can still perform the bulk of the standard tasks that are available in modern NAS and if you are looking for a universally supported DLNA or backup device, this is the one for you. Though definitely not aimed at the NAS experienced or 2nd-time buyers, or those looking for a solid foundation to build a business around where the customer data is critical. If you are looking for a network-attached storage device to act as a network backup or just want a simple NAS to do basic tasks such as media and protecting the data on your other devices, I recommend the Synology DS420j NAS

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Black Friday 2023 – Synology NAS Drives for Photo and Video Editing

Storing your photography or Video Editing archive for post-production on a Synology NAS is something taht has grown in popularity in the last few years. Now in 2023, not only can a Synology NAS be used to store your photos/video, but with upgraded connections to 10Gbe, Thunderbolt 3 to 10Gbe Adapters and link aggregation becoming more affordable, buying a Synology NAS this Black Friday 2023 for your post-production and live editing is easier than ever before Below are three great options for editors looking for a Synology NAS Deal from Amazon today.

Synology DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS

The Synology DS1522+ is a good NAS drive and most business-focused users are going to appreciate what this newer configuration of hardware is able to provide. There was never any doubt in the extent to which this new NAS would support DSM7, and given its architecture, there is virtually nothing in the popular NAS software that this system cannot do. Likewise, having the option of 10GbE on a Diskstation of this scale will be hugely attractive to some, though the proprietary means with which you need to upgrade is arguably less desirable. The R1600 CPU is a good choice of processor for file handling and simultaneous tasks, as is the 8GB of memory that this system arrives with, plus the potential to ramp it up to 32GB. After that though, the desirability of this system to home users and multimedia users is a little less compelling and with such a large audience of users who look at NAS for their media streaming, the DS1522+ not featuring a more graphically enabled chip will leave them somewhat underwhelmed. Bottom line, the DS1522+ is a solid and full DSM7 supporting system here and you cannot fault the design, internal/external performance and ease of use of this Synology NAS. However, there will always be users wondering why this NAS never arrived with an Intel chip.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology 5-bay DiskStation DS1522+ (Diskless),Black https://www.amazon.com/b/ref=dp_bc_aui_C_5?ie=UTF8&node=20941687011 usa USA 15% Off [LINK]
Synology 5-bay DiskStation DS1522+ (Diskless),Black Amazon usa USA 89.49 OFF (WAS 789) [LINK]
Synology DS1522+ 5-Bay DiskStation NAS AMD Ryzen R1600 8GB Ram 4xRJ-45 1GbE LAN Amazon UK UK 29.2 OFF (WAS 2325) [LINK]

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Synology DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS

The Synology ‘Plus’ series of devices has long held a reputation for providing mid-range hardware to mid-range business customers. Because of this, the DS1621+ needs to balance a fine line between providing fast and reliable hardware, whilst still maintaining a price point that won’t intimidate the average small-medium business user. In this regard, I think the Synology DS1621+ NAS gets it right, finding an impressive halfway point between these two factors. However, it is important for buyers to understand what they are buying and where the price point for the Synology DS1621+ is being aimed. Although it seemingly lacks some of the multimedia and prosumer features of ‘cheaper’ NAS devices in the Synology portfolio, it doubles down on more business and enterprise-level features in efforts to support that core audience. It’s about getting the right tool for the job and in that area, Synology almost completely succeed. The lack of above gigabit connectivity afforded to a NAS unit at this price point, compared with their competitors, may put some users off, but on the whole, you are getting good performance and excellent value on this combined hardware and software solution with some excellent scalability.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology 6 bay NAS DiskStation DS1621+ (Diskless) Amazon usa USA 40.25 OFF (WAS 954) [LINK]

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Black Friday 2023 – Synology NAS Drives for 4K Video Streaming

4K TVs and High Definition media production have now reached a point that buying the right Synology NAS for storing, watching and adapting 4K Ulta High definition media in 2023 can be alot of work. True 4K media arrives in HUGE file sizes and you will need a more powerful Synology NAS drive to handle this kind of media all the way from the hard drives inside, to pumping it out to your 4K Display. Luckily a few of the more powerful Synology NAS solutions are on offer this Black Friday and if you are lucky enough to get a deal on one of these three, you will have a great NAS to enjoy 4K in your home or business environment.

Synology DS923+ 4-Bay NAS

Synology has clearly made something of a gamble in the release of the Synology DS923+ NAS. There is no avoiding that making the switch from the Intel Celeron that has historically been the build choice of this product family and opting for the AMD Emb.Ryzen has ruffled some feathers! On the face of it, the R1600 here has a heck of alot of going for it over the previous generation! Higher clock speed, greater PCIe Gen 3 Support throughout, that 4-32GB of DDR4 memory in such a compact system and just generally giving you a lot more horsepower to play with, as well as better bandwidth potential inside and out! But at what cost? The 1GbE standard connectivity in the base model leaves alot to be desired, the proprietary 10Gb upgrade (though incredibly handy) limits the upgradability a tad and the lack of an integrated graphics processor is likely going to result in many long-term Synology advocates to skip this generation. Synology Diskstation Manager (DSM 7.1 at the time of writing) still continues to impress and although the brand still continues to heavily push their 1st party priorities, they have left a little more wriggle room in DSM 7.1 than DSM 7 before it in terms of media compatibility. In terms of design, I cannot fault Synology on this as the DS923+ chassis still arrives as one of the best-looking and still exceptionally well-structured devices at this physical scale and storage level. As always, a Synology NAS is more about the software than the hardware (and the DS923+ delivers in spades on the software side!) and with DSM 7.2 around the corner improving things. Just always keep in mind that the Synology DS923+ NAS is a system that arrives with the slight emphasis on having to do many things ‘their way’. If you are less technically versed, then you will definitely appreciate this level of user-friendly design and assistance, but more technically minded admins’ main strain a pinch! In short, the DS923+ IS a good NAS drive, but its focus has certainly ebbed more towards the business user this generation than the home.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology DS923+ 4-Bay Diskstation NAS (AMD Ryzen™ 4 Threads R1600 Dual-Core 4G Amazon usa USA 7.63 OFF (WAS 764) [LINK]
Synology DS923+ 4-Bay Diskstation NAS (AMD Ryzen™ 4 Threads R1600 Dual-Core 4G Amazon usa USA 42.62 OFF (WAS 1642) [LINK]
Synology DS923+ 4 Bay NAS enclosure Amazon UK UK 8.97 OFF (WAS 590) [LINK]
Synology DS923+ 32TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution, Installed with 4 x 8TB Seagate Amazon UK UK 176.71 OFF (WAS 1637) [LINK]

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Synology DS423+ 4-Bay NAS

There are two ways we need to look at the Synology DS423+ NAS. In one way, the Synology DS423+ DOES support all of the features and services that users demanded in a fully-featured home/prosumer solution. It features an Intel Quad Core processor with embedded graphics, DDR4 memory, multiple gigabit ports, wide HDD/SSD compatibility and m.2 NVMe SSD support. These are all things popular and most certainly what users would want/expect in a fully featured home/prosumer solution (aka SOHO). Then, when you roll in DSM 7 and it’s enormous range of software and services, the DS423+ is an excellent NAS solution that counters a broad range of criticisms that were leveled at the DS923+ at launch. However, there is, of course, the unavoidable way that most long-term Synology users and those looking to upgrade an existing 2016/2018 Diskstation are going to look at the DS423+ – a Synology DS920+ with less memory and no expandability! For those that skipped the DSx20+ generation, the DS423+ is going to feel decidedly underwhelming at best and hugely disappointing at worst! Synology has made no bones that they prioritize their software and services, with hardware being an important but nevertheless secondary concern. The main criticism is that CPU being the same processor used in the 3 years previous generation. Intel has moved production away from the J4125 themselves several times (with most other NAS brands using the N5105 or J6412 right now) and although Synology has been known to move CPU architecture down through the generations previously, this is a particularly egregious example. Overall, this si still the best affordable option right now for users looking at an all-encompassing Plex Media Server NAS solution from Synology in a compact form.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology 4-Bay DS423+ Diskstation Amazon usa USA 69.4 OFF (WAS 622) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 16TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 4TB HAT5300 D Amazon UK UK 164.91 OFF (WAS 1568) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 32TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 8TB HAT5300 D Amazon UK UK 350.29 OFF (WAS 2345) [LINK]
Synology DS423+ 72TB 4 Bay Desktop NAS Solution installed with 4 x 18TB HAT5300 Amazon UK UK 583.58 OFF (WAS 4422) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Black Friday 2023 – Synology NAS Drives for Business

Businesses in 2023 are producing so, SO MUCH DATA! Customer information, Web site images, legal documents, online marketing, internal communication, surveillance and security – it all adds up! With the majority of this data being highly confidential, copywrite or both, it is imperative that a business has a secure place to keep this data. Synology NAS drives have been used in business for a number of years and Diskstation Manager (DSM) arrives with every NAS, packed with applications and licenses for those enterprise applications (Synology Active Backup, Surveillance, Virtual Machine Manager, Drive, Office, Chat, Calendar, mail and more). Below are the best Synology NAS drive deals this Black Friday for those who want to invest in a business class server to protect their data and ensure high productivity in 2023.

Synology DS3622xs+ 12-Bay NAS

Unsurprisingly, the Synology DS3622xs+ is by FAR the most powerful and capable desktop NAS solution that the brand has ever produced – and that is not even a close-run thing. But we are still talking about a £2,500 box here (unpopulated) and you are going to expect that there is some serious horsepower here – So are you getting the most for your money here? Almost completely, yes. There are a few lingering things that some buyers will still not be in love with, such as the lack of M.2 caching bays, the lack of SAS support or the reduced support of 3rd party drive and network upgrade compatibility, but they do not undercut that this is a genuinely groundbreaking solution from Synology that provides the ultimate base to enjoy and make the most of the Synology DSM 7 platform in 2022 onwards. Once you breakdown everything included in this package, from DSMs software and services, to the tremendous bandwidth available here internally and externally, this compact tank-like NAS server is an absolute beast and a must for those that are keen on fully integrating a private cloud network and subscription-free SaaS-level setup across their company.

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Synology DS1821+ 8-Bay NAS

DS1821+ is an 8-bay desktop NAS providing superior performance with great expandability, allowing for seamless expansion and upgradability to satisfy your growing business needs. DS1819+ comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports and one PCIe expansion slot, providing great configuration flexibility, thereby satisfying your intensive workload demands. Synology Office is a collaboration package combining the convenience and usability of public clouds with the data privacy and security guaranteed by private clouds. It allows you to work seamlessly together on documents and spreadsheets in a protected environment

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Synology RS1619xs 4-Bay NAS

RS1619xs+ is a high-performance and scalable 1U rackmount NAS designed with upgradable memory and M.2 SSD cache configuration to meet the needs of modern businesses that require a flexible, reliable, and efficient storage solution. Synology’s 5-year limited warranty provides hardware replacement and technical support via email and telephone services, maximizing your enterprises’ return on investment.  Synology iSCSI storage supports most virtualization solutions including VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Citrix Xen Server, and OpenStack Cinder, to enhance work efficiency. Create and manage virtual machines running multiple operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and DSM using Virtual Machine Manager.

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology RackStation RS1619xs+ - NAS server - 4 bays - rack-mountable - SATA 6Gb Amazon UK UK 67.93 OFF (WAS 2126) [LINK]
Synology RS1619XS+1U 4 BAY 2.2 GHZ QC Amazon UK UK 340.19 OFF (WAS 2504) [LINK]
Synology RS1619XS+/56TB-TE - RS1619xs+/56TB-TE 4 Bay NAS Amazon UK UK 64.98 OFF (WAS 3275) [LINK]
Synology RackStation RS1619XS+ NAS Rack (1U) Ethernet LAN Aluminium, Black D-152 Amazon UK UK 383.8 OFF (WAS 5815) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Synology RS2423RP+ 10GbE 12-Bay NAS

It is reasonable to say that when it comes to having a huge storage array, competent hardware and business class software, that the Synology RS2421RP+ does deliver on a number of its promises. Indeed, despite the huge similarity in internal hardware between the RS2421RP+ and other recent rackmount releases in 2023, the RS2423RP+ manages to still stand out with its unparalleled level of storage against the majority of solutions in the Synology portfolio. The price tag, edging closer to a number of Xeon powered solutions, may seem a touch high for some and given the difference between this 16-bay and the £1200+ 12-bay being relatively small – that price tag does seem a tad overly ambitious. That said, much like other rackstation NAS solutions of late, the jump from Intel Atom C3538 to embedded Ryzen V1780B was long overdue and although may seem fairly predictable and pedestrian now in, still remains a firm favourite. If the software and services of Synology Diskstation Manager appeal to you, you need storage in the hundreds of terabytes and you need a solution that is both scalable and centralised, you would be hard pushed to find a better solution from Synology right now without spending £5,000-10,000 without drives. Then, of course, there is the fact that the latest 2023 generation of rackmount NAS in the Plus series seem to arrive with 10GbE as standard (from this system upwards!) – whilst still also providing the PCIe Gen 3×8 slot for further upgrades.

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Hot Tips when you Buy a NAS this Black Friday 2023

In order for you to get the very best NAS deals this Black Friday, here are some hot tips that I have personally used for the last few years to get the very best deals.

Amazon Warehouse Deals are 20% lower

For those that aren’t aware, Amazon has a whole section of their website that is dedicated to pre-owned and opened items. This includes both NAS, hard drives, SSD and more for your storage. During Amazon Black Friday 2023, the discount on these broken-seal items will be increased by an additional 20% and for those looking for an insane bargain, this will be irresistible.

Another tip when buying NAS or Hard Drives from Amazon Warehouse is that although (as they are broken seal/used/returned items) they have a shorter warranty from Amazon, you will almost certainly be able to claim the FULL warranty coverage from Synology, QNAP, WD or Seagate. They just want your serial number and a receipt of purchase – this will not state the amazon reduced warranty.

Amazon Warehouse for different countries can be found below:

 

Amazon Warehouse USA

Amazon Warehouse UK

Amazon Warehouse Germany

Latest Deals Update and Notifications

If you want to make sure you see the LATEST Black Friday deals for NAS (as new ones are added every hour) then I would recommend checking the official Amazon Prime page regularly. It will also include the very latest Lightning Deals too

US Amazon Amazon Deals Page

UK Amazon Amazon Deals Page

Amazon Prime for FREE

The prices listed on Amazon for NAS during the Black Friday event are only available to Prime members. If you are not a member, don’t worry, as you can use the 30-Day free trial to sign up for a Prime, or just pay for 1 month of Prime as a student and get it at 50% off. Then after you finish your purchase, you can cancel your subscription. The other bonus of this is that you will qualify for fast, next day delivery for free. I would recommend however that you do not cancel your subscription until you have received your order and tested your item.

As then you will still be able to take advantage of the fast and free return policy extended to Prime members. This is especially useful when buying NAS Hard Drives and you are worried about broken drives!

Improved Delivery on your NAS Black Friday Deal

It is a well-known fact that Amazon Prime membership includes free next day delivery and Amazon has even upped the stakes by stating that they will be providing the fastest-ever Black Friday delivery of just 14 minutes between the cart and the courier, last year we saw and heard numerous examples of delivery issues with Black Friday deals, adding 2-3 days on supposed next-day shipping.

If any of your Amazon Prime delivery dates are not the 24 hours turn around that they promise, then definitely complain to Amazon after you receive your goods (not before) as they will almost certainly have a deluge of customer enquiries after Black Friday 2023 and  in an effort to conclude the matter, you might get an additional discount, a gift vouchers or more. Currently, the trending ‘gesture of goodwill’ gift is a free month of Prime membership.

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