The Synology BeeDrive Backup Hub – A New and Unusual Move by the Brand

I have been a follower of Synology for more than a decade professionally and close to double that personally, but when I first saw news of the BeeDrive being revealed in China – I was understandably confused! Synology is arguably the top dog in the world of turnkey NAS. They have an exceedingly well-populated NAS server portfolio, a very well-established storage media range, Several high-class routers and recently added surveillance cameras into the mix too! Nevertheless, when I saw the official Synology BeeDrive External USB SSD, I was very confused! Synology has diverged from its traditional NAS lineup in an attempt to provide a convenient, easy-to-use, and very user-friendly remote cloud alternative solution for personal data storage. This USB Direct Attached Storage (DAS) device arrives with either 1TB or 2TB of storage capacity and supports a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) connectivity. The main focus by Synology here seems to try and eradicate the complexity of a NAS backup drive for a handful of devices, whilst trying to replicate the ease of use and ‘set up and forget’ mentality of small-scale cloud backup services – Ultimately, the BeeDrive aims to make data backup as simple as it gets. With several unique features, it enables users to back up local data with ease, minimizing the need for a NAS or commercial cloud platform (though obviously, they will almost certainly scale it in eventually for longer time storage with a proprietary BeeDrive DSM app no doubt). Initial desktop support is available for Windows OS, with macOS to follow soon, along with compatibility for iOS and Android mobile operating systems at launch. The BeeDrive does not rely on proprietary backup file formats or predefined OS in the way the data is stored, making it even more versatile as it can be used as a cross-platform storage tool. Plus, it facilitates simultaneous backups from both a computer and a mobile device at once, upto 5 devices. So, right now, it sounds like a USB-sort-of-NAS. But isn’t it just an external SSD?

Model	BeeDrive 1TB SSD	BeeDrive 1TB SSD
Price	$129 (Check Amazon)	$199 (Check Amazon)
Connection	USB-C
Connection	USB-C
Port	USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb/s
Size	65x65x15mm
Weight	43 Grams
Extras	USB A-C Cable / USB C-C Cable
Warranty	3 Years
Features	Local PC Backup Local Mobile Backup / BeeDrop 5 Device File/Folder Sync (Simultaneously) 5 Revisions per File Drive Status and Backup Logs Incremental / Stop-Start Backups HEIC to JPEG Conversion Viewing

What Makes the Synology BeeDrive Different from a  Regular External USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSD?

The Synology BeeDrive offers much more than just being an external SSD. While it does share the high-speed data transfer rate and portability of a standard USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C SSD, its unique features differentiate it somewhat:

• Automated Data Backup: The BeeDrive can automatically back up selected folders from your computer and photos from your mobile devices. This makes it much more than a simple storage device, turning it into a comprehensive data backup solution.

• BeeDrop: This unique feature allows for easy transfer of files from your phone to your PC over Wi-Fi. This is something not typically found in a standard external SSD.

• File Sync: Unlike a regular external SSD, BeeDrive can automatically sync specific folders between different computers. It supports both bidirectional and one-way syncs.
• Real-Time Backup and Versioning: The BeeDrive offers real-time backup of targeted files and folders, maintaining up to five versions per file. This means that you can recover previous versions of your files if needed, a feature usually not available in standard external SSDs.
• Concurrent Backups: The device allows for simultaneous backups of a computer and a mobile device. Moreover, it supports up to five concurrent device backups.
• OS Compatibility and Software: The BeeDrive is compatible with multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) and comes with software designed to simplify the user’s data management. This also extends to Photos where supported local OS have preferred formats that are less compatible wth other OS’ (eg HEIC to JPEG)

• Local Storage + Remote Backup, without Subscription: Unlike some cloud storage services, BeeDrive stores your data locally on the device, with no subscription fees. This contrasts with a regular external SSD, which is simply a storage device without any associated services.

However, it’s worth noting that while the BeeDrive is rich in features, it doesn’t currently support encryption, a security feature that some other external SSDs offer for local storage. This may be a consideration for users who prioritize data security, but as it stands, all traffic to/from the device would appear to be local only.

What IS the Synology BeeDrive? Who Needs It Exactly?

This is a very, VERY good question! If you own a Synology NAS, then what makes this better? And if you don’t own a NAS but DO own an external drive, what makes this superior? Well, as you would expect from Synology, it comes down to the software. With real-time backup capabilities over the local area network AND locally over the 1,000MB/s USB connection, the BeeDrive also maintains up to five versions per file and automatically resumes incremental backup processes when plugged into a host USB device. Additionally, the device ensures that all data is stored in its original format, accessible from any computer with a compatible OS. When backing up mobile content, the BeeDrive operates intuitively (comparable to Google Cloud and iOS Photos) to backup to the local connected BeeDrive. As soon as the device and mobile phone are on the same network, it begins to back up your photos and videos, auto-incrementing based on the current state of the files and the content of your camera roll. It also supports concurrent backups from up to five client devices in original, JPEG, or a combined format. The BeeDrive doesn’t require a subscription plan; your data remains local, stored securely within the device. One of its unique features is BeeDrop, akin to Apple’s AirDrop, which lets you transfer files, photos, and videos from your phone to the BeeDrive over Wi-Fi. However, unlike AirDrop, you are not restricted to a single OS.

The BeeDrive also allows customized local folder-level backups in file syncing. You can synchronize specific folders between different computers, with support for both bidirectional and one-way syncs. It comes with a USB-C-C cable and a USB C-A adapter, so you are not necessarily restricted to USB-C, offers a 3-year warranty, and with regard to pricing the 1TB model is expected to be priced at approximately $129, while the 2TB model is projected to be around $199. Once again. it’s worth noting that the BeeDrive does not currently support encryption, which might be a concern for users prioritizing security. This largely designates the BeeDrive mainly for personal use. Synology originally designed BeeDrive with simplicity and ease of use as the starting point, but if s successful, we will likely see improved functions such as encryption be added to the software in the future.

Synology also explained that the goal of BeeDrive at this stage is like a bee, collecting and saving important data on various devices for individual users. As the data stored on BeeDrive gradually accumulates, the long-term goal in the future is to use computing power, and even introduce AI automatic classification (much like Synology Photos and AI recognition), file pinning/streaming and other functions to create a personal exclusive data center to help users manage scattered and Huge amount of important information. It’s a bizarre little device and a little left field for a brand so deep in the work of networking storage, but much like the previously mentioned Apple Airdrop-like functionality and lower friction setup, there might be a market for a storage device of this scale in 2023. We anticipate this device rolling out in June 2023.

BeeDrive 1TB SSD	BeeDrive 1TB SSD
$129 (Check Amazon)	$199 (Check Amazon)

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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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Asustor Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro SSD NAS Review – Worth Your Data?

Asustor Flashtor 6 FS6706T Here on Amazon $499 – HERE

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X Here on Amazon $860 – HERE

The TL:DR on Whether You Should buy the Asustor Flashstor NAS Series:

The Asustor Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro M.2 SSD NAS have compelling reasons to buy, including:

1. They possess an aesthetically pleasing, compact chassis that fits between 6 and 12 M.2 NVMe SSDs while maintaining a low operational noise.
2. The devices offer impressive audio and visual connectivity, including HDMI 2.0B for increased 4K visual bandwidth performance and an SPDIF audio output.
3. The storage capacity is notable with the inclusion of 6-12 M.2 NVMe SSD Bays.
4. The inclusive Asustor ADM software, a full NAS operating system, provides a robust management platform.
5. The price point is affordable, with the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro priced at $499 and $860 respectively.

However, they also have downsides:

1. The devices use an Intel Celeron N5105 CPU, which might limit performance and connectivity potential.
2. The M.2 NVMe SSD slots are PCIe Gen 3 x1, which means each bay will have a 1000 MB/s bottleneck.
3. The network connectivity is not optimal for the throughput capability of the SSDs due to CPU limitations.
4. The devices lack inclusive heat sinks for the SSDs, which could potentially lead to heat-related issues.
5. Asustor was a victim of the DeadBolt ransomware attack in 2022, which may raise questions about the company’s security measures.

Asustor Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro M.2 SSD NAS – Reasons You SHOULD Buy?

There are a surprisingly large number of reasons why the Flashstor 6 and 12 Pro are particularly impressive flash NAS systems. Indeed, narrowing it down to 5 was harder than you might think. Nonetheless, the following 5 reasons might well be enough to convince you the new NVMe SSD-focused Asustor NAS deserve your data!

#1. Very, VERY Well Designed Chassis that is also nice to look at!

The design of the Flashstor 12 Pro and Flashstor 6 is probably the thing that impressed me the most when I first heard about this device. The devices arrive in a fantastically compact chassis and the brand deserves credit for managing to squeeze between 6 and 12 M.2 NVMe SSDs into this small space. With numerous ventilation points around the system and an active cooling fan directly beneath the storage media, this system maintains an impressive operational temperature, yet low operational noise at the same time. The physical size of the device is significantly smaller in terms of general desktop footprint and overall volume compared to the average 2-bay or 4-bay NAS device. This means that in terms of overall impact and design, the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro are very well-constructed devices. Lastly, and this is a matter of personal opinion, these two NAS devices might well be among the nicest looking devices I have ever reviewed here on the blog.

#2. Impressive Audio and Visual Connectivity

The general connectivity of this device, for its price point, is another area that left a positive impression on me when getting set for my review. Of course, there are USB ports for storage and accessories, two different network connection options, and then things get quite unique. Both of these devices arrive with not only HDMI 2.0B for increased visual bandwidth performance in 4K, but they also arrive with an SPDIF audio output. This is remarkably rare on network-attached storage devices and those looking to output high-end audio and dense audio format tracks directly into their expensive sound systems will appreciate the enhanced audio and visual connectivity on the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro.

This is still arguably a niche for audio output, but there are certainly users who will be thrilled about this. The HDMI output is utilized with Asustor’s portal application, a complete parallel graphical user interface to access the NAS. It provides a full HDMI user interface that can be controlled via infrared remote control, network remote control, or just a simple USB keyboard and mouse. There are hundreds of available applications and services that can run via this HDMI output, allowing you to run a vast number of local multimedia and business services directly from the device. These range from first-party tools for surveillance and streaming 4K media, to third-party applications for connecting streaming subscription services and virtual machines.

#3. Between 6-12 M.2 NVMe SSD Bays in a Tiny Case!

I think the brand deserves credit for managing to fit such an extensive range of NVMe SSD storage media into this device. While they were not the first to develop M.2 SSD network-attached storage systems, they have managed to fit 6 Gen 3. NVMe SSD bays inside and still provide the rest of the hardware system services. This is even more impressive when, thanks to an additional internal component, the 12 Pro manages to house 12 NVMe SSDs. This system supports the usual RAID configurations, with each bay supporting a standard 2280 length M.2 SSD that can currently be purchased in up to eight TB, resulting in a system with a huge amount of storage potential in a compact physical form.

#4. Inclusive ADM Software in this NVMe SSD Turnkey NAS Solution

#5. Ridiculously Affordable Price Point for what it is, at $499

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Asustor Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro M.2 SSD NAS – Reasons You SHOULDN’T Buy?

Although the Asustor Flashstor series has alot of incredibly impressive features and abilities, it is worth keeping in mind that it is by no means perfect. Indeed, the thing that might make it less suitable for you and your setup stem from that same motivation by the brand to keep the device affordable. Here are five reasons the Asustor Flashstor 6 or Flashstor 12 Pro might be worth skipping in 2023/2024.

#1. Slightly Odd Choice of CPU

#2. M.2 NVMe SSD Slots are PCIe Gen 3 x1

#3. Network Connectivity is a mixed bag

#4. Lack of Inclusive Heatsinks

#5. The Deadbolt Ransomware Attack in 2022

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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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

The QNAP TVS-h1288X vs TVS-h874X NAS –  Which Should You Buy?

In the realm of Network Attached Storage (NAS) drives, QNAP has established itself as one of the best providers of turnkey NAS hardware in the market. However, though their portfolio is very diverse, there are currently two standout models in their Premium fully featured tier that make it a bit tough for potential QNAP buyers to pick between – they are the QNAP TVS-h1288X and the QNAP TVS-h874X. Both offer robust features and powerful capabilities, making them excellent choices for businesses or power users who need high-capacity, flexible, and efficient data storage solutions. This combined with both arriving with very modern server hardware, tremendous scalability in storage, a wide range of possible upgrades and power under the bonnet, result in users who have a $3000+ budget having a hard choice to make. While these NAS drives share certain similarities, there are notable differences in their choice of processor (i.e Xeon vs Intel Core – a battle as old as time!) that can significantly impact their performance and suitability for specific use cases. In this comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of each model – power, flexibility, upgradability, multimedia use, virtual machine use and more – to provide a comprehensive understanding of their strengths and determine which might be a better fit for you and your data!

QNAP TVS-H874x vs TVS-h1288x NAS – The TL:DR

TL;DR: The QNAP TVS-h874X-i9-64G and TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G are powerful NAS devices with distinct advantages. The TVS-h874X boasts a more powerful Intel Core i9 processor and PCIe Gen4 slots, making it better suited for intensive tasks like virtual machines or media servers. It could perform better with tasks that demand high CPU power and faster data transfer speeds, such as advanced virtual machine deployment or as a robust Plex Media Server. On the other hand, the TVS-h1288X features a solid Intel Xeon W-1250 processor and additional storage flexibility with extra 2.5-inch SATA bays. Its advantage lies in offering a larger number of PCIe slots and additional SATA bays for tiered storage, thus providing more flexibility for expansions and setting up hybrid storage systems. This device could be more suited for tasks that demand versatile storage configurations and a higher capacity for upgrades. In essence, the choice between the two devices depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user. While the TVS-h874X offers higher raw computational power and faster PCIe slots, the TVS-h1288X provides more flexibility in terms of storage and expandability.

Chassis
Model ID	QNAP TVS-h1288X NAS	QNAP TVS-h874x NAS
Written Review
Video Review
Where to Buy / Price	$2500-3000 (Check Amazon)	$2500-3200 (Check Amazon)

The QNAP TVS-h1288X vs TVS-h874X NAS – Price and Value

The QNAP TVS-H1288X, which was released at the end of 2020, has a price range of about $2500 to $3000. However, one significant aspect to consider is its limited availability, which can potentially affect the ease of procurement for interested buyers. This may limit its appeal despite its more competitive price point. Furthermore, the timing of its release could mean that its features, while still impressive, might not be the most current when compared to more recent models.

Click to view slideshow.

On the other hand, the QNAP TVS-h874X, launched towards the end of 2022, commands a slightly higher price bracket, falling somewhere between $2500 and $3200. Its appeal lies in its broader availability, making it a more accessible choice for consumers globally in 2023/2024. Another significant advantage of this model is the diverse combinations of CPU and memory it offers, allowing buyers to flexibly budget their investment based on their specific needs and requirements.

Click to view slideshow.

Comparing these two models, it is clear that while the TVS-h1288X may carry a lower price tag, the TVS-h874X seems to offer better overall value. Its wider availability and more updated features make it an appealing choice for consumers looking for a powerful, flexible, and readily available NAS device. Hence, when considering both price and value, the TVS-h874X could be a more viable option for most consumers.

The QNAP TVS-h1288X vs TVS-h874X NAS – Hardware Comparison

When looking at purchasing a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, one must understand the key specifications and how they align with individual needs. To help you make an informed decision, let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of the hardware specifications of the QNAP TVS-H1288X and the QNAP TVS-h874X. Below is how they compare, but I have highlighted in green the areas where one system has an advantage over the other:

Comparing the Intel Xeon W-1250 and Intel Core i9-12900KF CPU – Which is Better?

The Intel Xeon W-1250 and the Intel Core i9-12900KF are two powerful processors from Intel, each designed for different uses and with different strengths.

The Intel Xeon W-1250 is a server-grade processor part of the Xeon family. It has 6 cores and 12 threads, with a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz. One notable advantage of the Xeon series in conjunction with the TVS-h1288X including the W-1250, is its support and inclusion of Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory, which can detect and correct common types of data corruption. This feature is crucial for server and workstation environments where data integrity is paramount. Moreover, Xeon processors often have extended lifecycle support compared to their Core counterparts, making them ideal for enterprise solutions that require long-term stability. However, these processors usually have lower clock speeds and fewer cores than similarly priced Core models, making them less suitable for tasks that require high single-core performance or benefit from multiple cores, like gaming or multimedia content creation. On the other hand, the Intel Core i9-12900KF is a high-performance consumer desktop processor. It’s part of Intel’s 12th generation Alder Lake series and uses a hybrid architecture combining Performance cores (P-cores) and Efficient cores (E-cores). The i9-12900KF has a total of 16 cores (8 Performance + 8 Efficient) and 24 threads, significantly more than the Xeon W-1250, and it can achieve higher clock speeds. The i9-12900KF DOES support ECC memory but the TVS-h874 arrives with non-ECC memory (likely for reasons of maintaining a reasonable budget point in the QNAP portfolio), but it does include integrated graphics, while some other Xeon chips do not. This chip is designed for demanding applications like gaming, multimedia production, and high-performance computing. It would typically outperform the Xeon W-1250 in most consumer applications, thanks to its higher core count and clock speeds. However, the i9-12900KF lacks some professional features found in the Xeon line that at the data center level (eg sustained high performance in larger frequency but low avg file volume processes) that makes it less suitable for large-scale file processing where speed over extended periods is paramount.

NAS	QNAP TVS-h1288X	QNAP TVS-h874X
CPU	Intel Xeon W-1250	Intel Core VS i9-12900KF
Total Cores	6	16
# of Performance-cores	0	8
# of Efficient-cores	0	8
Total Threads	12	24
Max Turbo Frequency	4.70 GHz	5.20 GHz
Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Frequency ‡		5.20 GHz
Performance-core Max Turbo Frequency		5.10 GHz
Efficient-core Max Turbo Frequency		3.90 GHz
Performance-core Base Frequency		3.20 GHz
Efficient-core Base Frequency		2.40 GHz
Cache	12 MB Intel® Smart Cache	30 MB Intel® Smart Cache
Total L2 Cache		14 MB
Processor Base Power		125 W
Maximum Turbo Power		241 W
Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 Frequency	4.70 GHz
Processor Base Frequency	3.30 GHz
Bus Speed	8 GT/s
TDP	80 W
Max Memory Size (dependent on memory type)	128 GB	128 GB
Memory Types	DDR4-2666	Up to DDR5 4800 MT/s Up to DDR4 3200 MT/s
Max # of Memory Channels	2	2
Max Memory Bandwidth	41.6 GB/s	76.8 GB/s
ECC Memory Supported	Yes
Direct Media Interface (DMI) Revision		4
Max # of DMI Lanes		8
Scalability	1S Only	1S Only
PCI Express Revision	3	5.0 and 4.0
PCI Express Configurations	Up to 1×16, 2×8, 1×8+2×4	Up to 1×16+4, 2×8+4
Max # of PCI Express Lanes	16	20

The choice between the Intel Xeon W-1250 and the Intel Core i9-12900KF largely depends on your specific needs. The Xeon W-1250 would be a reliable choice for server and workstation environments requiring error-correction and long-term stability, while the Core i9-12900KF would deliver superior performance for consumer/content-creation and multimedia applications, particularly those that can take advantage of its high core count and clock speeds.

Which NAS is Better as a Plex Media Server?

When determining the best NAS for a Plex Media Server, factors such as CPU power, transcoding ability, RAM capacity, and storage options come into play. If you want to know simply which is better for a 4K Plex Media Server, then that would be the QNAP TVS-h874 NAS. You can watch my YouTube video HERE on 4K Plex Testing of the TVS-h874. However, it’s worth touching on that the difference in their plex handling is a tiny bit more nuanced when you factor in the difference configurations of the TVS-hX74 more broadly. However, for the purpose of this comparison, let’s focus on the Intel i9 version.

Starting with the CPUs, the TVS-h874X-i9-64G with its Intel Core i9 16-core (8P+8E) /24-thread Processor, will likely outperform the TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G’s Intel Xeon W-1250 6-core/12-thread processor for most tasks. Given the processor-intensive nature of Plex Media Server, especially when it comes to transcoding, the TVS-h874X-i9-64G will be able to handle multiple simultaneous streams more efficiently. Both NAS devices have hardware-accelerated transcoding, which is a crucial feature for a Plex Media Server. This functionality allows the NAS to convert media files to formats more suitable for the device they are being streamed to, which can significantly improve the streaming experience. Regarding RAM, the TVS-h874X-i9-64G comes with a substantial 64GB. Although Plex doesn’t require a massive amount of RAM, having more can still be beneficial, especially if you plan to run other services on the NAS besides Plex. However, it’s worth noting that the TVS-h1288X has a higher maximum memory capacity at 128GB, providing more room for future upgrades if needed. While both NAS devices are capable of serving as a Plex Media Server, the QNAP TVS-h874X-i9-64G, with its more powerful processor and substantial amount of RAM, would likely offer better performance, especially when handling multiple streams or dealing with high-resolution content. However, if storage flexibility and future RAM upgrade potential are of higher concern, the TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G might be the more suitable choice.

QNAP TVS-h1288X NAS 4K Plex Tests	QNAP TVS-h874x NAS 8K Plex Tests

Integrated graphics can be significantly beneficial when it comes to streaming HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding), also known as H.265, content on Plex. This comes down primarily to the role of hardware transcoding. Transcoding is the process of converting a video file from one format to another. It’s particularly important when streaming content with Plex because it allows a media file to be converted to a format more suitable for the device it’s being streamed to. This process can be quite CPU-intensive, especially with high-resolution or high-bitrate content, like that encoded with HEVC/H.265. When you have a processor with integrated graphics that support hardware-accelerated transcoding, such as the Intel UHD Graphics 770 on the TVS-h874X-i9-64G or the Intel UHD Graphics P630 on the TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G, this can take a significant load off your CPU. These graphics units can handle the bulk of the transcoding process, freeing up the CPU to handle other tasks and improving overall system performance. Moreover, hardware-accelerated transcoding is generally much more efficient than software-based transcoding on the CPU alone, meaning you’ll be able to handle more simultaneous streams without running into performance issues. This is especially relevant for HEVC/H.265 content, which is more complex and thus more processor-intensive to decode and encode than older formats. Integrated graphics that support hardware-accelerated transcoding can significantly improve the performance and efficiency of a Plex Media Server, particularly when dealing with HEVC/H.265 content. Both the QNAP TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G and the TVS-h874X-i9-64G NAS drives offer this feature, enhancing their ability to serve as effective Plex servers.

What Are the Benefits of the TVS-h874 having PCIe4 and the TVS-h1288X having PCIe3 Architecture?

PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is the standard interface for connecting high-speed components to the motherboard. The main difference between PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 is the amount of data they can transmit simultaneously. Each new version of PCIe effectively doubles the bandwidth of the previous version. So, PCIe 4.0 can deliver roughly double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0. The QNAP TVS-h874X-i9-64G comes with PCIe 4.0 architecture, which provides a significantly higher data transmission rate compared to PCIe 3.0. This becomes particularly advantageous when using high-speed devices that can take advantage of this increased bandwidth, such as certain NVMe SSDs, high-speed networking cards, or advanced graphics cards. For instance, NVMe SSDs connected via PCIe 4.0 can achieve faster read and write speeds, which could lead to faster data transfers, backups, or even general responsiveness of the NAS if the SSDs are used for caching or as primary storage.

On the other hand, the QNAP TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G comes with PCIe 3.0 architecture. While the bandwidth is lower than PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0 still provides robust performance for a wide range of devices, and is still the standard for many peripherals. Another point to consider is that the TVS-h1288X has three PCIe slots compared to the two in the TVS-h874, which could offer more flexibility in terms of expansion options, even if they’re limited to PCIe 3.0 speeds. In summary, if you’re planning to use devices that can take advantage of the higher speeds provided by PCIe 4.0, or if you anticipate needing that capability in the future, the QNAP TVS-h874X-i9-64G would be a better choice. However, if you don’t foresee needing the increased bandwidth, or if you value having more expansion slots, the TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G would be a viable choice despite having the older PCIe standard.

Choosing Between QNAP QuTS and QTS on Either NAS System?

QNAP QTS and QuTS hero are two NAS operating systems developed by QNAP. QTS is the standard, well-established system, while QuTS hero is a more recent offering that brings several key improvements and additional features.

QTS is a Linux-based operating system that provides an intuitive graphical user interface, supporting features like file sharing, backup, multimedia applications, and virtualization. Its extensive functionality, combined with its easy-to-use design, has made it popular for both home users and small businesses. Furthermore, QTS offers a vast array of apps through the QNAP App Center, which further extends the functionality of your NAS. However, QTS uses the EXT4 file system, which, while reliable, does not offer the same level of data protection as some more modern file systems. QuTS hero, on the other hand, is built on the same Linux foundation as QTS but incorporates the ZFS file system. ZFS offers several advanced features not available in EXT4, such as data deduplication, inline compression, and powerful snapshots. These features can help to save storage space, protect data integrity, and simplify data backup and recovery. Furthermore, ZFS uses a sophisticated checksum system to prevent data corruption. QuTS hero still supports all the same apps and features as QTS, so you’re not losing any functionality by choosing the newer system. However, the advanced features of ZFS can require more system resources, particularly RAM, so QuTS hero may not be suitable for lower-end NAS models with limited hardware. Luckily both of these systems are more than powerful enough to let you choose between them. Additionally, some QTS applications (such as QVR Pro with 8 camera licenses) CAN be installed on the QuTS platform if you download them directly from the App center, avoiding the 2 license that QVR Elite has.

How do the TVS-h1288X and TVS-h874 Compare in terms of flexibility and expandability of storage?

The flexibility and expandability of storage are key considerations for a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device, especially when it is expected to adapt to the increasing data storage demands of a growing business or a professional with evolving needs. The QNAP TVS-h1288X-W1250-16G has a notable edge over the TVS-h874X-i9-64G in terms of storage flexibility. In addition to the eight 3.5-inch SATA bays that both devices share, the TVS-h1288X also offers four additional 2.5-inch SATA bays. These extra bays can be used for SSDs, allowing for a tiered storage setup where frequently accessed data is kept on the faster SSDs, while less frequently accessed data is stored on the larger but slower HDDs. This hybrid storage system can enhance the performance of your NAS while maintaining a large overall storage capacity. In terms of expandability, both devices support M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, which can further boost the performance of the NAS. The TVS-h1288X has two M.2 22110/2280 NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 slots, while the TVS-h874X supports two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x4 slots, offering faster data transfer rates. For further storage expandability, both NAS drives feature PCIe slots, which can be used to add expansion cards for additional storage or to upgrade networking capabilities. However, the TVS-h1288X provides three PCIe Gen3 slots, compared to the TVS-h874X’s two PCIe Gen4 slots. While the Gen4 slots on the TVS-h874X offer faster data transfer speeds, the extra slot on the TVS-h1288X could potentially provide more flexibility for expansions or upgrades. Both the TVS-h1288X and TVS-h874X provide a good range of options for storage flexibility and expandability. However, the TVS-h1288X might offer more flexibility in setting up a tiered storage system with its additional 2.5-inch SATA bays. In terms of expandability, the choice between the two could come down to whether you prefer more PCIe slots (TVS-h1288X) or faster PCIe slots (TVS-h874X).

Click to view slideshow.

QNAP TVS-h1288X vs TVS-h874X NAS – Which Should You Choose?

Both the QNAP TVS-h874X and TVS-h1288X NAS devices offer robust features and excellent performance, making them highly suited for a variety of professional and business scenarios. Choosing the most appropriate device ultimately comes down to identifying your specific requirements and how they align with the unique strengths of each NAS. If your use case demands a highly powerful CPU, especially for heavy-duty applications like running multiple virtual machines or a robust Plex Media Server, the TVS-h874X with its Intel Core i9 processor could be the better choice. Its superior graphics capability, coupled with the high-speed data transfer rate of PCIe 4.0, makes it an ideal candidate for intensive tasks requiring high processing power and fast data movement. It ultimately has the wider scope of hardware bandwidth and resources to support numerous scenarios, at the same time!

On the other hand, if your needs revolve more around sustained performance and expandable storage, the TVS-h1288X is likely the more appropriate choice. The extra 2.5-inch SATA bays and additional PCIe slot can give you more options when setting up your storage system and potential future expansions. Its solid Intel Xeon W-1250 processor ensures it can handle most tasks effectively, making it a balanced choice for diverse storage needs and configurations. It’s just a shame that it lacks the PCIe4 Support of the newer NAS for Gen 4 SSDs and Gen 4 Upgrade cards. Ultimately, by aligning these strengths with your specific requirements, you can select the NAS device that will serve you most effectively in your professional or business endeavors. But, further emphasizing the key points, the QNAP TVS-h874X is an excellent match for businesses or professionals dealing with heavy computational requirements. Whether it’s running demanding virtual machines, providing seamless Plex Media Server performance, or managing data-heavy workflows, the powerhouse combination of the Intel Core i9 processor and PCIe 4.0 delivers both speed and power. It’s built for tasks that require high-performance computing and ultra-fast data transfer rates, proving its worth in high-demand scenarios. Both devices are formidable in their own right, each bringing a distinct set of advantages to the table. By evaluating your specific needs and requirements, you can secure a NAS device that will be a steadfast ally in your data management and storage journey.

Chassis
Model ID	QNAP TVS-h1288X NAS	QNAP TVS-h874x NAS
Written Review
Video Review
Where to Buy / Price	$2500-3000 (Check Amazon)	$2500-3200 (Check Amazon)

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

QNAP TBS-574TX Flash + Thunderbolt4 NAS – ABSOLUTE GAME CHANGER!

Get ready for a thrilling expedition into the world of next-gen network storage. This year at Computex 2023, QNAP has unveiled an exciting new NAS model, raising the bar for the entire industry. With the introduction of their latest 5-Bay NAS, QNAP is redefining how we think about data storage and network efficiency, all while demonstrating their continued commitment to innovation and user choice. Yes, that does all sound a bit wanky – but I have to give QNAP credit here, the TBS-574TX is a very interesting-looking NAS indeed! As part of the Computex 2023 showcase, QNAP hosted a seminar event, delving into the applications and potential of this new NAS model and services in QuTS/QTS. But I am getting ahead of myself a bit. What exactly is the TBS-574TX? And why is it something of a game-changer?

Hardware Specifications and Ports of the QNAP TBS-574TX NVMe Flash + Thunderbolt4 NAS

Straight off the bad, this NAS is something REAL special! The TBS-574TX might be one fo the most intriguing pieces of hardware that QNAP have revealed in several years. Arriving off the back of the TBS-574X that was revealed at CES 2023 in January, this seems to be a newly Thunderbolt4 enabled model. Arriving with the bleeding edge EDSFF ES.1 SSD support (ultimately, built on regular NVMe SSD PCIe storage, but allows greater capacity, heat dissipation potential, hot-swapping and expanded surface area utilities to improve NAND distribution. Which equals more potential storage and greater performance as NAND distribution increases. The QNAP TSBS-574TX features five storage bays of ES.1, but ramps up the internal AND external bandwidth tremendously, with the choice of an Intel 12th Gen i3 or i5 Processor. Alongside the PCIe Gen4 lanes and quantity that these processors offer, this also is what allows the TBS-574TX to support two Thunderbolt 4 Ports for local direct access AND external 10GbE connectivity (plus 2.5GbE thrown in).

At a little over 2KG in weight and just 60x215x199mm in size, this means that this insanely powerful compact NAS also has an exceptionally small physical footprint. It’s also worth highlighting that this system has fans (absolutely no way you would want these kinds of specs on a fanless/silent NAS – it would throttle/bottleneck in no time!), but they appear to be quite modest in size and likely result in a suitably diminished noise level too. With regard to memory, it will come as no surprise in these ‘memory scarse’ and ‘memory price spike’ times, that this compact system has pre-soldered memory, with either 8GB or 16GB as the default (non-upgradable) choice. There is yet to be confirmed at the time of writing if this memory is ECC or not. Here are the specifications we know so far:

Model	QNAP TBS-574TX
Software	QuTS Hero (ZFS) or QTS (Linux/EXT4)
CPU	Intel 12th Gen i3-1220PE 8-Core/12 Thread (Max 4.2Ghz) or i5-1250pe 12 Core/16 Thread (Max 4.4Ghz) CPU Choice
Memory	8GB/16GB of fixed Memory (Not ECC)
Drive Bays	5-Bay
Drive Interface	ES.1 SSDs at 15mm height, or normal M.2 NVMes at 2280 with an adapter
Thunderbolt 4 Ports	2x, TB4 USB-C
10GbE Ports	x1
2.5GbE Ports	x1
USB Ports	2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10Gb) Ports (Also, 1-Touch Copy Button) 1x USB 2.0
HDMI	1x HDMI 1.4b
Power	External PSU, 90-120w
Fans	Twin rear fans, approx 40mm
Warranty	TBC (Likely 3yrs)

Provisional speeds were also shown at QNAP partner event which they stated would provide a stable 1,500MB/s Read/Write.  The generation of the M.2/ES.1 slots is yet to be confirmed, but this is still very high for a TB over NAS connection:

What is EDSFF Storage? (Enterprise and Data Center Standard Form Factor) and what is ES.1

The Enterprise and Data Center SSD Form Factor (EDSFF) was developed as a response to the evolving needs and challenges of datacenter storage. It introduces a variety of form factors that outperform the existing SSD form factors, offering improved capacity, performance, scalability, manageability, along with superior thermal and power management. NVMe SSDs, with their flexibility and compatibility, are a preferred choice for datacenter storage. EDSFF form factors use the same NVMe protocol and PCIe interface, reinforcing their suitability for modern datacenters. A critical aspect of datacenter storage is the ability to consolidate and maintain flexibility. The E1.S form factor within the EDSFF family achieves this balance effortlessly. With its compact design, the E1.S (where ‘S’ stands for ‘short’) enables flexible server configurations within a 1U space, promoting optimal performance levels. It comes in four thickness variants, ranging from 5.9mm to 24mm, slightly longer yet broader than the M.2, to accommodate additional NAND flash for increased capacity. The E1.S form factor parallels the E1.L in terms of compatibility with a 1U server. The 15mm and 25mm options, although housing fewer drives per rack due to their asymmetrical enclosures, provide a favorable trade-off with enhanced power and performance per drive.

Set to spearhead the transition from M.2, the E1.S form factor is becoming a new standard in datacenter storage. The advantages it offers include:

• Expanded space and enhanced cooling capabilities for improved server airflow
• Purpose-built for hot-swap/hot-plug functionality across various devices
• Efficient modular scaling of NVMe performance and capacity
• Reduced system infrastructure and drive costs
• Increased density and high IOPs, offering more IOPs per inch compared to the U.2 15mm

When Will the QNAP TSBS-574TX NAS Be Released?

As mentioned, THIS is a very interesting NAS. But this is not the first Thunderbolt4 NAS that QNAP has ever revealed (the TS-464T4 from Early 2022 for example, which is seemingly now cancelled) and we have still yet to see a true TB4 release from them. So, as exciting as this product looks – I will wait till I see it actually get released before I get my hopes up! I have been informed that they are aiming for a Q3 2023 release for this NAS.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

QNAP TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 Thunderbolt 4 NAS Revealed

Of all the releases that I have seen revealed from the big brands showing off their wares at Computex 2023, few have left me as impressed as the (arguably, long overdue) reveal of the brand’s new TVS-hX74T4 Thunderbolt 4 Solutions. The QNAP TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 are the inevitable Thunderbolt 4 addition to the remarkably popular TVS-hX74 series. I say ‘inevitably’ because QNAP have been in the business of Thunderbolt-equipped NAS systems now for about 6 years and do not show any signs off slowing down! Arriving in two versions (6-Bay and 8-Bay), this is the intel-powered TB4-ready tier of their powerhouse desktop series. Although pricing has still TBC, I have been assured that release is targetted at Q3 2023.Of course, QNAP have previously revealed another TB4 solution (alongside another rather interesting TB4 solution, the TVS-574TX at their partner event) back in CES 2022 – The TS-464T4 affordable TB4 4-Bay. However, that system has since largely been confirmed cancelled). The TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 seem a great deal more grounded (functional hardware at their official event) with multiple physical units available. Let’s discuss their new Thunderbolt 4 NAS Solutions below.

What Are the Hardware Specifications of the QNAP TVS-874T4 and TVS-h674T4 NAS?

As mentioned, if you are familiar with the existing QNAP TVS-hX74 series, the specifications of the new TVS-h874T4 and TVS-674T4 are going to be fantastically familiar. Both are using the highest tiers of hardware that the 6/8-Bay in the x74 series arrive with (I.e the i7 and i9 Core versions). A massive reason for this is going to be that Thunderbolt 4 support, although available on a few different CPU architecture’s, the Intel Core series has always been the more developed and supported processor for TB. There was also mention of USB 4 compatibility with this connection, but I cannot confirm at this time whether that is in the same style or DAS/TB-over-IP that Thunderbolt NAS has used on previous devices.

• (8-Bay) Intel Core 12^th Gen i9 16-Core / 24 Thread Processor, 5.1Ghz Max Clock
• (8-Bay) Intel Core 12^th Gen i7 12-Core / 20 Thread Processor, 4.9Ghz Max Clock
• DDR4 Memory (Likely 32-64GB)
• Integrated Graphics

• 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (discussion of support of USB 4 TBC)
• 2.5GbE (Optional 10GbE)
• 6/8x SATA 3.5”/2.5” Bays
• 2x PCIe Gen 4 M.2 2280 M.2 Slots
• PCIe Gen 4×16 Slot
• PCIe Gen 4×4 Slot (Occupied by the TB4 Card)
• 1x HDMI 1.4b
• 350W PSU
• 3 Year Warranty

The lack of 10GbE is a bit of a shame, especially if you compare it with the TVS-872XT. However, after asking QNAP about this, it was simply a case of keeping the system within a set price point of the series. 10GbE can be added easily via large range of 1st/3rd Party network upgrade cards. QM2 Cards (recently updated to in the QNAP portfolio), which means that the PCIe Gen 4×16 card slot can be used for a wide variety of network and/or storage upgrades. The range from 10-25-100GbE network cards, to Gen4 PCIe M.2 2/3 slot cards and even combo cards that can have 2 Gen4 m.2 SSDs and dual port 10GbE ports. I am still a little surprised that the TB4 Card occupies the Gen 4×4 slot, but this was the case in previous-gen Thunderbolt NAS systems, so perhaps is a bandwidth cap anyway (I’ll check!).

When Will the QNAP TVS-h874T4 and QNAP TVS-h674T4 Be Released and what is the Price?

QNAP were keen to highlight that the release of these new 6/8-Bay TB4 NAS devices will be arriving relatively soon. They repeated that the TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 were slated for Q3 2023 and aiming for September 2023. Pricing is still yet to be confirmed.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Everything Networking and Data Storage at Computex 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Computex 2023, a pivotal event that brings the cutting edge of storage and data technology into sharp focus. Held annually in Taipei, Taiwan, this globally recognized event has become the launchpad for advancements that shape the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Internet of Things (IoT) sectors. The rapid evolution of storage technology continues to redefine our digital landscape. This year, Computex 2023 is brimming with groundbreaking releases and announcements in the world of Network Attached Storage (NAS), Thunderbolt 4, PCIe Gen 5 SSDs, and hard drives. This article will serve as your trusted beacon amidst this flurry of innovation, providing timely updates on the latest products from industry trailblazers like Synology, ADATA, Realtek, QNAP, Asustor, OWC, Teamgroup, Patriot Viper, QSAN, and Transcend. Keep abreast of the dazzling showcase, as we dive into the world of high-speed interfaces, lightning-fast storage solutions, and advanced network-attached devices. This year’s Computex is set to highlight how these technologies are driving the future of digital storage and data management. Stay tuned and refresh this page regularly as we chronicle the leaps in tech that will shape the data landscape of tomorrow. Computex 2023 is not just about the future; it’s about the now, and you won’t want to miss a second!

Last Updated 03/06/23

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QNAP Reveal A New Flash Thunderbolt 4 NAS, the TBS-574TX with E1.S SSD Support

Full Article HERE and YouTube Video HERE

Straight off the bad, this NAS is something REAL special! The TBS-574TX might be one fo the most intriguing pieces of hardware that QNAP have revealed in several years. Arriving off the back of the TBS-574X that was revealed at CES 2023 in January, this seems to be a newly Thunderbolt4 enabled model. Arriving with the bleeding edge EDSFF ES.1 SSD support (ultimately, built on regular NVMe SSD PCIe storage, but allows greater capacity, heat dissipation potential, hot-swapping and expanded surface area utilities to improve NAND distribution. Which equals more potential storage and greater performance as NAND distribution increases. The QNAP TSBS-574TX features five storage bays of ES.1, but ramps up the internal AND external bandwidth tremendously, with the choice of an Intel 12th Gen i3 or i5 Processor. Alongside the PCIe Gen4 lanes and quantity that these processors offer, this also is what allows the TBS-574TX to support two Thunderbolt 4 Ports for local direct access AND external 10GbE connectivity (plus 2.5GbE thrown in). At a little over 2KG in weight and just 60x215x199mm in size, this means that this insanely powerful compact NAS also has an exceptionally small physical footprint.

It’s also worth highlighting that this system has fans (absolutely no way you would want these kinds of specs on a fanless/silent NAS – it would throttle/bottleneck in no time!), but they appear to be quite modest in size and likely result in a suitably diminished noise level too. With regard to memory, it will come as no surprise in these ‘memory scarse’ and ‘memory price spike’ times, that this compact system has pre-soldered memory, with either 8GB or 16GB as the default (non-upgradable) choice. There is yet to be confirmed at the time of writing if this memory is ECC or not. Here are the specifications we know so far:

• QuTS or QTS Software Support (User Choice)
• 5-Bay, supporting ES.1 SSDs at 15mm height or normal M.2 NVMes at 2280 with an adapter (Gen 3/4 TBC, Likely Gen4)
• Intel 12th Gen i3-1220PE 8-Core/12 Thread (Max 4.2Ghz) or i5-1250pe 12 Core/16 Thread (Max 4.4Ghz) CPU Choice
• 8GB/16GB of fixed Memory (ECC TBC)
• Two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C Ports (Front/Back)
• One 10GbE (10GBASE-T) Port
• One 2.5GbE (2.5GBASE-T) Port
• 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10Gb) Ports (Also, 1-Touch Copy Button)
• 1x USB 2.0
• 1x HDMI 1.4b (4K 30FPS)
• 215mm x 199mm x 60mm
• Twin rear fans, approx 40mm
• External PSU, 120w (TBC)

As mentioned, THIS is a very interesting NAS. But this is not the first Thunderbolt4 NAS that QNAP has ever revealed (the TS-464T4 from Early 2022 for example, which is seemingly now cancelled) and we have still yet to see a true TB4 release from them. So, as exciting as this product looks – I will wait till I see it actually get released before I get my hopes up!

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ADATA Lead the way on Gen 5 NVMes with Project Neonstorm and Legend 970 SSD

Full Article on the ADATA Neonstorm and Legend 970 SSD HERE

At Computex 2023 in Taipei, ADATA unveiled two trailblazing PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSDs, both pushing the boundaries of design and performance. On NASCompares, we’re excited to present the show-stopping Project NeonStorm and the equally impressive Legend 970 SSD. Project NeonStorm is a head-turner, boasting a self-contained water-cooling solution built directly onto the XPG-branded M.2 SSD. The compact design cleverly incorporates miniature dual fans to cool the circulating fluid, keeping the SSD operating smoothly. This extraordinary cooling approach, combined with the SSD’s commanding sequential read and write speeds of 14,000 and 12,000 MB/s, respectively, sets it apart.

Click to view slideshow.

As if the innovative cooling solution weren’t enough, the NeonStorm also flaunts a visually striking design with copper pipes and a bubble hinting at the liquid within. The twin fans are cleverly tucked away out of sight, but their impact on the SSD’s performance is clear.

Click to view slideshow.

 ADATA’s second revelation, the Legend 970 Gen5 SSD, opts for a more traditional design yet offers no less in performance. The improvement over its predecessor lies in the utilization of extruded aluminum fins and larger fans, providing an efficient cooling system.

This unassuming powerhouse delivers equally balanced sequential read and write speeds of 10,000 MB/s, demonstrating ADATA’s commitment to performance alongside innovation.

Project Neonstorm SSD	ADATA Legend 970
14GB/12GB Seq Read/Write	10GB/10GB Seq Read/Write
Water-Cooling + Twin Fans	Aluminium + Fans
Silicon Motion SM2508 Controller	Phison E26 Controller
NVMe 2.0	NVMe 2.0
UPTO 8TB	1-2TB
2M/2M 4K Random IOPS	1.4M/1.4M 4K Random IOPS

Both SSDs are making waves at Computex 2023, with ADATA leading the PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD race with these standout offerings. Stay tuned to NASCompares for further updates from the Computex floor.

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Asustor AS5402T and AS5404T HDD+M.2 NVMe NAS

Full Article HERE and YouTube Video HERE

Asustor had an impressively dense stand at the computed show, and although the newly released Flashstor 6 and 12 Pro were clearly the focus, there was also reveal of a new Home/Prosumer/SMB 2/4-Bay NAS systems in the AS54 series. Following in the footsteps of the refresh in 2022 of the Locksterstor series to a Gen 2, the AS5404T and AS 5402T are an upgraded refresh of the 2019 released Nimbustor series. These new desktop NAS systems arrive with a newer generation Intel Celeron CPU, DDR4 Memory, 2/4 SATA HDD bays, but also include four M.2 NVMe SSD slots too (much like the aforementioned Lockerstor Gen 2 Upgrade). Likewise, the USB ports have been upgraded to USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) and the system still retains the 2.5GbE x2 Network Connectivity.

• Click to view slideshow.

• Intel N5105 Celeron CPU, 2-2.9Ghz with Int.Gfx
• 4GB DDR4 Memory
• 2x / 4x SATA HDDs
• 4x PCIe Gen 3 m.2 NVMe Bays

Click to view slideshow.

• 2x 2.5GbE Network Connections
• HDMI 2.0b 4K 60PFS Output
• 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb/s Ports
• 65W/90W External PSU
• 1x 70mm / 1x 120mm Rear Fan
• 170(H) x 114(W) x 230(D) mm / 170(H) x 174(W) x 230(D) mm
• 3Yr Warranty

The Nimbustor 2/4 FROM 2019 was always a system I thought was massively overlooked in favour of it’s bigger brother and sisters in the Lockerstor series. But the new AS5402T and AS5404T are considerably more modernized options and the inclusion of a two-tier storage system in such a compact form is going to be enormously compelling and competitive in 2023/2024. We fully expect the price point of the AS54 series to be comparable to the $350/$450 (ex.TAX) of the AS52/53 series, perhaps with a small increase factoring in the years.

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Teamgroup T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 NVMe SSD Finally Revealed

Full Article HERE for the Teamgroup T-Force Z5 SSD

Oh Boy! 2023 is massively turning into THE year for all the big names in SSD to reveal their Gen 5 NVMe offering – with the latest being Teamgroup. At Computex 2023, Teamgroup unveiled their T-FORCE DARK PCIe Gen 5 M.2 NVMe 2280 SSD, which is set to hit the market in 1, 2, and 4TB variants. This exciting addition to the T-FORCE lineup is projected to shatter performance records with maximum sequential read and write speeds reaching upwards of a blistering 14,000MB/s and 11,000MB/s, respectively.

To match its high performance, the SSD features a unique multi-layered cooling system with a choice of first-party AirFlow Coolers/heatsinks. Additionally, the SSD integrates S.M.A.R.T., a smart monitoring software, ensuring easy performance checks and adjustments. This cutting-edge drive is set to redefine SSD standards in the market.

Click to view slideshow.

• PCIe Gen 5 m.2 NVMe 2280
• 1-4TB Capacity at launch
• Reported Seq Performance of 14GB/s Read and 11GB/s Write
• Phison E26 Controller

Click to view slideshow.

• 1st Party Heatsink (three versions) Featuring an Aluminum fins heatsink with multiple layers and heat pipes (Watercooled, Stack, Fan and Barred versions)

We are still awaiting confirmation on the pricing and global availability of the Teamgroup T-Force Dark SSD, but they DID have benchmarks on show on constant refresh at their official stand:

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Realtek RTL9220DP USB 20G-to-2-Port PCIe-SATA Bridge

At Computex 2023, Realtek unveiled a suite of high-performance components that promise to revolutionize various tech sectors. Leading the charge is the RTL9220DP storage solution. This single chip provides a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface, supporting PCIe 3.0×4 lanes NVMe1.3 or SATA Gen3 SSDs. It offers compatibility with portable SSD duplicators, flash drives, docking stations, and more. It also introduces advanced data storage solutions with JBOD/RAID0/RAID1 features. Moreover, it’s fitted with programmable RGB, providing customizable LED effects for aesthetics alongside performance. Realtek’s Vice President, Yee-Wei Huang, emphasized the RTL9220DP’s green credentials, highlighting its dynamic power state switching, which balances power consumption and performance, making it an eco-friendly solution.

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Patriot Viper PV553 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD Revealed

Full Article on the Patriot Viper PV553 SSD HERE

Computex 2023 is shaping up to be a breeding ground for innovation, and one of the exciting reveals we’re eager to share with you is the Patriot Viper PV553, a next-generation PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD. This latest product from Patriot Memory is poised to make a bold statement in the realm of flash storage technology, promising lightning-fast speeds and enhanced cooling efficiency. The Viper PV553 is designed to be the brand’s entry into the increased Gen5 standards of SSD technology that are slowly getting supported at the mobo level, embracing the high-speed capabilities of the PCI Express 5.0 interface.

For tech enthusiasts and professionals seeking the cream of the crop in flash storage performance, the Viper PV553 is a compelling contender, especially considering the scarcity of PCIe 5.0 SSD options currently available. As the new flagship product in Patriot Memory’s portfolio, the Viper PV553 boasts an impressive M.2 2280 form factor and offers dazzling sequential read and write speeds of up to 12.4 GB/s and 11.8 GB/s, respectively. This SSD is a powerhorse, designed to handle intensive data transfers and heavy-duty applications without breaking a sweat.

As PCIe Gen5 SSDs venture into new performance stratospheres, thermal management becomes crucial to prevent overheating and maintain optimal speeds. The Viper PV553 tackles this concern head-on, sporting a robust aluminum heatsink equipped with an active cooling fan. This advanced cooler design seeks to circumvent the performance degradation and errors observed in other SSDs due to excessive heat, a problem highlighted in reviews of products like Corsair’s MP700 SSD. The chunky heatsink and visible fan at the connector end suggest an aggressive approach to heat management. While it might stir curiosity about potential acoustics when the fan operates, what’s clear is the commitment to keeping the Viper PV553 cool and performance-ready.

The brand also revealed their concept/early development DRAMless PCIe SSD that will be built around the Phison E31T Controller. This is still VERY EARLY in development and I assume we are going to see/need some SERIOUS heatsinks for this kind of drive, but they were still highlighting that these new dramless drives will hit the high double digits of performance in GBs.

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Realtek RTL8952A/RTL8922A WiFi 7 Controllers Realised and Revealed

Full Article covering the whole Realtek Wi-Fi 7 Presentation HERE

At Computex 2023, Realtek made waves in the world of wireless technology with the introduction of its newest Wi-Fi 7 controllers, the RTL8952A and RTL8922A. These advancements promise to push the boundaries of what wireless connectivity can achieve. The Realtek RTL8952A and RTL8922A controllers have been crafted with a keen eye for compatibility and coexistence. They are designed to be backwards compatible with legacy devices, seamlessly integrating with systems operating in the 2.4, 5, and 6GHz spectrum bands. This inclusive approach is set to make the transition to Wi-Fi 7 smoother and more accessible for users with diverse device ecosystems. Furthermore, these Wi-Fi 7 controllers come equipped with several enhancements aimed at improving the user experience. They support 4096 QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation), a modulation scheme used for sending data over network connections.

It enables more data to be sent in the same amount of time, thus enhancing the speed and efficiency of data transfer. Another notable feature is the inclusion of MLO (Multi-Link Operation) and MRU (Maximum Retransmission Units). These help improve the efficiency and reliability of wireless communication, further amplifying the performance benefits of the controllers.

Moreover, these controllers offer reduced latency, which is a crucial factor for time-sensitive networking applications. Whether it’s augmented or virtual reality, 4K and 8K video streaming, automotive applications, or gaming, the RTL8952A and RTL8922A controllers are engineered to deliver a seamless, lag-free experience.

Slated for consumer product integration in 2023, the Realtek Wi-Fi 7 controllers will be found in various devices including AP routers, PCs, Wi-Fi dongles, AR/VR devices, video streaming devices, and gaming gadgets, hopefully within the next 12-month period. The advent of these controllers ushers in a new era of Wi-Fi technology, setting a high bar for the future of wireless connectivity.

The ADATA Project Neonstorm Gen 5 SSD

Full Article HERE of the ADATA Neonstorm SSD

Of all the Gen5 SSDs that were revealed at Computex, the ADATA Neonstorm made the BIGGEST SPLASH! With a large-scale model of the drive towering above their stand, it was very hard to miss! The ADATA Neonstorm is a unique drive for two specific reasons when compared to all the other drives revealed at Computex. With the first reason being that it is one of the very few water-cooled M.2 NVMe SSDs in the market (and the ONLY GEN5 SSD that arrives with a preattached, fan-assisted and water-cooled heatsink. It definitely it a very unique-looking SSD and much like other drives in the XPG series, arrives with an incredible sense of style.

And 2) it is arriving with the Silicon Motion SM2508 controller! This is important, as 9/10 of Gen5 SSDs that have been revealed in the last 12 months are using the Phison E26 controller (as well as proprietary controllers as used by brands such as KOIXIA and Samsung). Currently, this controller, with the right NAND, has been reported to hit 14,000MB/s Sequential Read and 12,000MB/s Sequential Write – placing it higher than the Phison E26 controller’s current top speed.

Additionally, this controller also reports a maximum IOPS of 2 Million 4K Random in both read and write – with ADATA maintaining that the Neonstorm can hit these numbers!

Like many of the SSDs that were shown at Computex, the ADATA project Neonstorm drive did not share much in the way of specifics about durability, but did report that the drive will be available in/after launch in upto 8TB – which is massive! Although there are a lot of SSDs that will be covered in this article, this is probably the most intriguing.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Project Neonstorm
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	Upto 8TB
NAND	3D TLC
Controller	Silicon Motion SM2508
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 12GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	2 Million / 2 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes. Features Watercooling, Aluminimum Casing and top/bottom fans
Notes	The first drive to be revealed with the Silicon Motion SM2508 Controller and out performing currrently Phison E26 (which is currently peaking at 12GB/11GB)

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QNAP TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 Thunderbolt 4 NAS Revealed

Full Article on the TVS-hx74T4 Series HERE and YouTube Video HERE

Of all the releases that I have seen revealed from the big brands showing off their wares at Computex 2023, few have left me as impressed as the (arguably, long overdue) reveal of the brand’s new TVS-hX74T4 Thunderbolt 4 Solutions. The QNAP TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 are the inevitable Thunderbolt 4 addition to the remarkably popular TVS-hX74 series. I say ‘inevitably’ because QNAP have been in the business of Thunderbolt-equipped NAS systems now for about 6 years and do not show any signs off slowing down! Arriving in two versions (6-Bay and 8-Bay), this is the intel-powered TB4-ready tier of their powerhouse desktop series. Although pricing has still TBC, I have been assured that release is targetted at Q3 2023.Of course, QNAP have previously revealed another TB4 solution (alongside another rather interesting TB4 solution, the TVS-574TX at their partner event) back in CES 2022 – The TS-464T4 affordable TB4 4-Bay. However, that system has since largely been confirmed cancelled). The TVS-h874T4 and TVS-h674T4 seem a great deal more grounded (functional hardware at their official event) with multiple physical units available.

As mentioned, if you are familiar with the existing QNAP TVS-hX74 series, the specifications of the new TVS-h874T4 and TVS-674T4 are going to be fantastically familiar. Both are using the highest tiers of hardware that the 6/8-Bay in the x74 series arrive with (I.e the i7 and i9 Core versions). A massive reason for this is going to be that Thunderbolt 4 support, although available on a few different CPU architecture’s, the Intel Core series has always been the more developed and supported processor for TB. There was also mention of USB 4 compatibility with this connection, but I cannot confirm at this time whether that is in the same style or DAS/TB-over-IP that Thunderbolt NAS has used on previous devices.

• (8-Bay) Intel Core 12^th Gen i9 16-Core / 24 Thread Processor, 5.1Ghz Max Clock
• (8-Bay) Intel Core 12^th Gen i7 12-Core / 20 Thread Processor, 4.9Ghz Max Clock
• DDR4 Memory (Likely 32-64GB)
• Integrated Graphics

• 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (discussion of support of USB 4 TBC)
• 2.5GbE (Optional 10GbE)
• 6/8x SATA 3.5”/2.5” Bays
• 2x PCIe Gen 4 M.2 2280 M.2 Slots
• PCIe Gen 4×16 Slot
• PCIe Gen 4×4 Slot (Occupied by the TB4 Card)
• 1x HDMI 1.4b
• 350W PSU
• 3 Year Warranty

The lack of 10GbE is a bit of a shame, especially if you compare it with the TVS-872XT. However, after asking QNAP about this, it was simply a case of keeping the system within a set price point of the series. 10GbE can be added easily via large range of 1st/3rd Party network upgrade cards. QM2 Cards (recently updated to in the QNAP portfolio), which means that the PCIe Gen 4×16 card slot can be used for a wide variety of network and/or storage upgrades. The range from 10-25-100GbE network cards, to Gen4 PCIe M.2 2/3 slot cards and even combo cards that can have 2 Gen4 m.2 SSDs and dual port 10GbE ports. I am still a little surprised that the TB4 Card occupies the Gen 4×4 slot, but this was the case in previous-gen Thunderbolt NAS systems, so perhaps is a ———bandwidth cap anyway (I’ll check!).

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The ADATA Legend 970 Gen 5 SSD

Full Article HERE of the ADATA SSDs at Computex 2023

Alongside The Project Neonstorm SSD, ADATA also took the opportunity at Computex 2023 to reveal another Gen 5 SSD in their lineup, the ADATA Legend 970. This drive was a little more conventional (if such a term can be used in this latest generation of NVMe SSDs), arriving with a far more traditional M.2 heatsink and performance numbers that are more comparable to a lot of the initially revealed Gen 5 SSDs back in 2022, when early prototypes started appearing.

The reason for this arguably more mainstream performance from this Gen 5×4 SSD is because unlike the Neonstorm arriving with a rather unique controller, the ADATA Legend 970 arrives with the popular Phison E26 Gen5 controller that a vast number of other SSDs have been launched within this generation.

That doesn’t detract from it having solid performance numbers and definitely serves as a more affordable and realistic alternative to the still WiP Neonstorm.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Legend 970
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1-2TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	10GB / 10GB
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	1.4 Million / 1.4 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, Fanless, Compact surface area
Notes

The Patriot Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD

Full Article on the Patriot Viper PV553 HERE and YouTube Video HERE

Patriot was another brand that took the chance at Computex 2023 to reveal two SSDs, a prototype ‘in progress’ one and a ‘close to release’ featured drive – the Patriot Viper PV553 is the latter! Arriving with a proprietary heatsink, that although one of the most compact/low of any of the SSDs at the show, still has very good vent design and an onboard fan.

The hardware architecture is pretty familiar from what we saw, another Phison E26 Controller SSD, but they boasted performance numbers a pinch higher than others on a similar performance level. Now, they did not elaborate on how this was possible, but we can assume it arrives with 212 layer 3D TLC NAND (again, TBC), which would help things, as many of the initially revealed drives that keenly mentioned the use of this controller, were still yet to fully take advantage of the recent increases in layer density from brands like micron, etc.

The previous generation Patriot Viper VP4300 was a great drive and one we previously reviewed on the channel positively, also commenting on it’s affordability too. I can definitely see this new PV553 Gen5 drive following suit in order to gain a strong early foothold in this gen of NVMe SSDs.

Brand	Patriot
Model ID	Viper PV553
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB, 2TB, 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	2-4GB DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, heatsink, aluminium panel surround, connected fan
Notes

The Patriot DRAM-less Gen 5 SSD (In development)

Yep! As crazy as it sounds, with Gen 5 NVMes still barely being available globally and what there is being considered ‘first generation’, Patriot are waisting no time in stretching their muscles in this area by working on a DRAMless (I.e no on-drive memory) PCIe Gen 5×4 SSD. Now, if you are relatively new to SSDs (Gen 5 or otherwise) you might not quite understand the significance of this. I’ll get to that in a second, but despite this drive in development for Patriot arriving with DRAM , they state it can still hit 12,000MB/s Seq Read and 10,500MB/s Sequential Write. Which still puts in squarely in the ballpark of most other Gen 5 SSDs.

So, what does DRAMLESS mean? SSDs run not dissimilar to a computer. They need a CPU (the SSD Controller), storage space (the NAND, where your data lives) and in most cases, memory, to handle tasks on the fly. However, some SSDs that are designed for low sustained (I.e periods of time) tasks, low-powered systems and/or for a more affordable target market, will look at SSDs that make savings by running without the memory (I.e the DRAM). There are numerous Gen 3 and Gen 4 DRAMless SSDs – but these arrived later in the rollout of their respective generation of drive gens. Although Patriot did not flat out state which controller their DRAMless drive would arrive with, we can take an educated guess. Patriot has utilized Phison for their SSD controllers for a long time (particularly in the Gen4 generation) and recently Phison revealed their Gen5 DRAMLESS controller, the PS5031-E31T, supporting upto 8TB capacities, as well as both TLC and QLCC NAND. It’s tilll not 100% confirmed that this will be the controller it will be using, but it’s the most likely estimation at the time of writing.

So, how can a DRAMless SSD match (and, according to Patriot, actually surpass other Gen5 SSDs) an SSD that has DRAM? Well, currently the infrastructure of systems that have rolled out with PCIe Gen 5 support are not really able to fully take advantage of to full performance benefits of PCIe Gen 5. This will change over time, but right now this is something of a system bottleneck across most devices outside of the exceptionally high end system arena. This will change of course, but it means that DRAMless SSDs might actually stand half a chance to compete. They just need to be viewed in the context of drives that cannot compete with DRAM drives in sustained operations! Also, if you thought the heatsinks on many Gen5 SSDs up to this point were big – imagine what this DRAMless Gen5 SSD is going to need! The prototype on show was just chips on a board, so there was no indication of how heat dissipation will eventually be realised, but it will be very interesting to find out!

Brand	Pariot
Model ID	ProtoType
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB, 2TB, 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison PS5031-E31T
Memory	No, DRAMLESS
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12GB/s / 10.5GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	1.5Million / 1.5 Million (Based on Phison Spec)
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	TBC
Notes	Still Work In Progress,

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Synology Finally Reveals their HAT3300 Plus Series HDDs

Synology HAT3300 HDD Full Article HERE and YouTube Video HERE

Synology continues its ever-expanding ecosystem of both hardware and software with the long-overdue reveal of their regular class NAS drive media, the HAT 3300 Plus series hard drives. Originally revealed here in an article back in February, Synology have been slowly working on this new expansion of their storage media selection for quite a while, and although the reaction to their enterprise-level media was perhaps a little mixed, I think there is definitely going to be a warmer and more engaged response to these new drives. Designed for users of value, prosumer, and SMB NAS hardware, these drives are designed for light to intermediate level use and are comparable to those of WD Red and Seagate Iron Wolf drives. Arriving in four separate capacities, as well as including several of the benefits of their enterprise brethren in the HAT 5300 series, those looking at a pure Synology-supported ecosystem network storage solution are definitely going to consider these in their next purchase. But what do we know about them? Let’s go through everything we know and also how these compare with previous hard drives in the Synology portfolio right now.

The release of the new Synology HAT 3300 hard drive is clearly very imminent. Information on these drives has been directly and indirectly appearing online now for a number of weeks and with the recent rollout of Synology DSM 7.2 and a number of key mid to high-level Synology NAS hardware seeing refreshes in the next 6 months, now is a very good time to roll out these new regular class NAS hard drives and I think we will see an official release in the next week or two at most. Thanks to price feeds and listings for these drives appearing on multiple websites online, the pricing of all four capacities of the HAT3300 drives that will be launched can be confirmed moderately accurately and are as follows:

Classification	Domestic SATA
Series Name	PLUS
Model	HAT3300
Interface	SATA 6Gb
Recording	CMR/PMR
Capacity (5/23)	4/6/8/12TB
RPM	5400RPM (7200 on 12TB)
Cache	256MB
Sector Size	512e
Max Transfer Speed (Capacity Dependant)	202/240MB/s
Drive Sealing	AIR/AIR/AIR/Helium
Power Use (Idle)	3.96/3.4/3.4/5.07W
Power Use (Active)	4.85/5.3/5.3/8.33W
Load/Unload Cycles	600K
Workload Rating	180TB (Annual)
MTBF (Hrs)	1Million
Warranty	3 Years

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Realtek RTS5863 Edge AI Camera Controller

Also introduced was Realtek’s Edge AI USB camera controller, the RTS5863, featuring cutting-edge image quality processing engines. These are equipped with Realtek’s 2nd generation video HDR technology and deliver superior image noise reduction. The RTS5863 boasts Edge AI machine vision engines that enhance video conferencing by detecting human presence for optimal power management. It also automatically adjusts screen brightness and offers user privacy alerts based on head pose/face detection. These innovative offerings are set to take various tech sectors by storm, bolstering Realtek’s reputation for creating high-quality, game-changing components.

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Teamgroup T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 SSD

Teamgroup T-Force DARK Gen 5 NVMe SSD FULL Article HERE

Teamgroup were another brand that made quite a lot of noise at Computex 2023, with their new Cardea Z5 series front and center. Their Gen5 SSD was another Phison E26 SSD and one that boasted a 14GB/s Seq read – pretty much the consistent top end of what SSDs with their controller have been able to report max. That said, we know that the host system is going to need to be pretty top end to hit these kind of numbers.

Alongside the reveal of the Teamgroup Cardea Z5 Gen5 SSD, they also showed off one of the BEST selections of Gen5 ready heatsinks of ANY brand at the show! The Teamgroup Dark Airflow Series (1, 2 and 3).

Starting with a chunky slated aluminium stack style heatsink that was finned from top to bottom, you then had a rotating structured heatsink with copper pipe design to pull air over the heatsink in a targetted fashion. Then you had the multi-layer plated heatsink (also with a copper pipe) that had an integrated fan.

Finally, they had the water-cooling kit heatsink that arrived with it’s own dedicated and integrated system case fan and dual pipe water connections. Although the subject of SSD heat and potential throttling has been approached by many brands, this is by FAR the most impressive and detailed addressing of the subject by a brand.

Both at Computex AND just generally in the whole Gen5 SSD scene right now. Kudos to them!

Brand	Teamgroup
Model ID	Cardea Z5
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB – 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 11GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	No (Has Heatshield) – Multiple Versions Available Optionally. The Dark Air Flow Series of H/S’ + the Siren GD120S Water Cooled Heatsink kit
Notes	Watercooloing Heatsink Option and many other versions

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PNY NVMe M.2 SSD Dual Fan Heatsink for Gen5 Drives

A little less exciting, but nonetheless integral, is the improved development of M.2 NVMe SSD heatsinks. Gen5 drives are going to reach some serious ‘throttling temps’ quickly without a proficient and efficient heatsink, At Computexx 2023, PNY revealed a surprisingly modest yet innovative NVMe M.2 SSD Dual-Fan Heatsink, a product designed to excel in cooling even the most performance-intensive PCIe NVMe Gen5 SSDs. PNY’s novel dual-fan system garnered significant attention, not least because of an upcoming ARGB lighting version set to enliven custom PC builds and gaming rigs with a riot of colors. Moreover, the accompanying PNY VelocityX software allows users to keep tabs on fan speeds, SSD temperatures, and customize the vibrant ARGB lighting effects. Not stopping at the heatsink reveal, PNY also showcased its entire portfolio of products, ranging from PCIe NVMe Gen4 SSDs to microSD cards, flash drives, and portable storage, including notable models like the CS3140, CS2241, and the Elite-X USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20Gbps) portable SSD.

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The Gigabyte Aorus 12000 Gen5 SSD

The Gigabyte AORUS 12000 Gen 5 SSD Full Article HERE

When the very first wave of commercial/consumer Gen5 SSDs dropped, one of the first was the Gigabyte Aorus 10000 (which you can now buy), however the price of being ‘first’ to a new industry standard can all too often mean that your product loses out on the time when other brands wait a little longer and capitalize on growing efficiency and proficiency in the storage medium. That is clearly why Gigabyte then followed up that SSD with the reveal at Computex of the finished Gigabyte 12000 Gen5 SSD.

Now, the Gigabyte 12000 get’s its name from the reported 12GB/s seq Read (12,400MB/s Reported Max) and close to 12GB/s seq Write (Actually 11,800MB/s) that it can hit in an optimal system setup (a decent chunk better than the 10GB/10GB of the Gigabyte 10000) #.

It’s another Phison E26 (shocker!) controller built SSD and although it is pretty comparable to the previous Gen5 release from them, it almost certainly benefits from improved NAND layer and perhaps a memory increase at the higher cap (TBC – but seeing a lot of that in the newest Gen5 E26 drives).

Brand	Gigabyte
Model ID	Aorus 12000
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, Heat Pipe Version +vents + Nanocarbon Coating
Notes	Gigabyte Aorus 10000 Already Available

The KIOXIA CM7 E3.1 Enterprise Gen5 SSD Series

And now for something completely different! Kioxia is arguably one of the most well-known brand in enterprise-grade SSD and with the data center class drives starting to roll out in small quantities, it was inevitable that KIOXIA would be one of the first and the loudest. We actually knew about the CM7 series prior to Computex 2023, but this was the drive’s first real public display. Arriving in two version, the CM7 series is designed for high performance, but also sustained and durable long-term reliability. First, we have the KIOXIA CM7SAS drive.

Arriving in a compact 7mm 2.5” casing, this drive directly outputs into SAS / U.3 connectivity (PCIe Gen5 Single x4, dual x2), as well as in capacities that start at 1980GB and then scale up massively to a whopping 30,720GB – whilst still maintaining that slim 7mm height! As these are data center class, needless to say, durability is HIGH! Starting at 1.0 DWPD (Drive Writes per Day) and ending at 3.0 DWPD. That means that, even keeping in mind the increase rigours of Gen5 writing, these drives can write 1-3 drives of fresh data a DAY (overwriting each time). They also peak at 14GB/s Seq Read (though their Seq Write peaks at 7GB/s)

The other version of the KIOXIA CM7 Series on show was the E3,S version. E3.S is a part of the continuing evolution of PCIe storage to make it more data center/server efficient and convenient (better surface area for storage, chip distribution, hot swapping, etc) and it is no surprise that KIOXIA have entered this area so quickly (as have a few other enterprise SSD brands, sensing the way the wind is blowing!). It’s also worth mentioning that, as it is a data center class SSD, they both arrive with options for SED/Self-Encrypted-Drive, Power Loss Protection (PLP) and FIPS support.

Brand	KIOXIA
Model ID	CM7 Series – E3.S Interface
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1920GB – 30,720GB
NAND	112 Layer Proprietary 3D TLC NAND
Controller	Proprietary
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 7GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	1-3DWPD
Includes Heatsink?	In 2.5” 15MM-7MM Casing, SAS
Notes	Enterprise Grade, Durability Priority, Encryption Support, PLP, U.3 Support (downgrades to PCIe Gen4)

The Samsung PM1743 U3.2 Gen5 SSD

Another SSD that we have discussed on the channel previously appeared, almost stealthily, at the Supermicro stand at Computex – The Samsung PM1743 SSD. This is an SSD that has popped up incredibly rarely since it was first revealed, with most devices already rolled out towards existing top tier hyperscale/unified storage users in early rollout in the background. Much like the KIOXIA CM7 series, the PM1743 is another U3.S SSD that is aimed at the EXACT same enterprise market.

Samsung has been starting to turn things around following their slight struggles with NAND/Memory shortages (much like everyone else) but with the advantage (in most areas) or developing their SSD components ‘in-house’. This also means that the specifications of their components are a great deal harder to pin down, as they are most proprietary and more often than not, publicly withheld (same applies to the bulk of their SSD components in older-gen drives).

Samsung (along with Seagate and WD) are still among the BIGGEST names in SSD that have yet to reveal a consumer/M.2 NVMe SSD for Gen5, seemingly all prioritizing the data center class initially (where the money is!). But we will almost certainly see this change in the 2^nd half of 2023. They also showed off the highly praised Samsung Gen 5 SSD Expander module.

Brand	Samsung
Model ID	PM1743 U3.S
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 15.36TB
NAND	Proprietary
Controller	Proprietary
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/S / 7.1GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	2.5 Million / 360K
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Cased
Notes	U3.S Interface, 7mm Height, the CXL Memory Expander also on show at SuperMicro Stand

The KLEVV CRAS C950 Gen5 SSD

A relatively lesser-known brand outside of Taiwan, KLEVV revealed their own Gen 5 SSD, the CRAS C950. Now, I include it here, despite it’s localized/limited global availability later, because it was a great example at Computex of Gen 5 SSD architecture and components starting to trick down into the lesser established brands. This is something we did not really see in the Gen4 generation for almost a year and a half.

Yet, Gen5 has barely established itself and we have already started seeing the less prominent SSD brand begin to roll out their very own Phison E26 Gen5 SSDs. Arriving with a fairly standard heatsink that features a branded aluminium trim, the C950 is largely comparable to many of the standard Gen5 SSDs that have been revealed. Despite this though, it boasts availability in upto 4TB and transfer speeds of 12GB/s and 11GB/s Seq Read/Write, respectively.

It might not seem the most exciting drive, when the specifications are similar to many that have already been made public in the last 6-7 months, BUT its the fact that we have started seeing more accessible Gen5 SSDs enter the market, which inevitably means this new faster tier of NVMe SSD storage is going to gradually become more consumer affordable!

Brand	KLEVV
Model ID	CRAS C950
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB – 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12GB/s / 11GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, standard style, name plate
Notes	Taiwanese Local Brand

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The SSI SI-452TB4 Thunderbolt 4 DVM Docking Station

Computex 2023 is buzzing with innovative tech and SSI is at the forefront with its latest offering, the SI-452TB4 TBT4 KVM Dock. Unveiled for the first time after a sneak peek at CES, this dock is set to redefine user-device interfacing with its high-speed ports, sleek design, and easy functionality. The SI-452TB4 is not just a high-performance gadget; it’s a masterpiece in design. Crafted from high-quality aluminum and high-strength ABS+PC plastic, it showcases both durability and aesthetic appeal. The dock’s slim dimensions (165.0 x 75.00 x 20.5 mm) make it compact enough for any workspace, and the convenient foot-long tether for the PC switch adds to its user-friendly design.

Equipped with multiple Thunderbolt4 40G ports (both input and output) and four USB3.2 10Gbps USB-A ports, the SI-452TB4 promises speedy data transfers and flexible connectivity. A dedicated host option switchover button coupled with distinct PC1/PC2 LED indicators make it effortless to switch between two PCs. The SI-452TB4 is brimming with features that enhance its usability and performance. It offers one-button source switching, supports dual host data transmission/screen display, and enables TBT4 mode for blazing 40Gbps to host. Moreover, it’s engineered to support DP1.4, offering 8K@60Hz video output for stunning visuals.

The dock also caters to device charging, with Thunderbolt4 downstream PD3.0 65W charge and USB-A supporting mobile device BC1.2 charging. It offers cost-efficient device sharing, eliminating the need for plug & unplug actions for hosts, thereby decluttering your workspace. From personal use to professional settings, the SI-452TB4 offers versatile application scenarios. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s device sharing, streamline video creation, manage remote control, or optimize your work-from-home setup, this dock is a game-changer. Its multi-window editing and multi-screen display features also make it an asset for engineers and financial investors.

．2 to 2 KVM dock, TB4 speed up to 40G.
．1 button to switch between 2 computers.
．8K@60Hz output through TB connection.
．2x upstream for TB computer connection.
．3x downstream for TB devices application.
．4x USB-C for 10Gbps devices application.
．1-on-1 upstream laptop PD 65W Charging.

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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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

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    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Synology Finally Reveals their HAT3300 Plus Series HDDs

Synology continues its ever-expanding ecosystem of both hardware and software with the long-overdue reveal of their regular class NAS drive media, the HAT 3300 Plus series hard drives. Originally revealed here in an article back in February, Synology have been slowly working on this new expansion of their storage media selection for quite a while, and although the reaction to their enterprise-level media was perhaps a little mixed, I think there is definitely going to be a warmer and more engaged response to these new drives. Designed for users of value, prosumer, and SMB NAS hardware, these drives are designed for light to intermediate level use and are comparable to those of WD Red and Seagate Iron Wolf drives. Arriving in four separate capacities, as well as including several of the benefits of their enterprise brethren in the HAT 5300 series, those looking at a pure Synology-supported ecosystem network storage solution are definitely going to consider these in their next purchase. But what do we know about them? Let’s go through everything we know and also how these compare with previous hard drives in the Synology portfolio right now.

What Are the Hardware Specifications of the Synology HAT3300 Plus Hard Drives?

There is most certainly a clear design choice here to mirror that of the existing regular-class server drives on the market right now. The Synology HAT 3300+ series has been reported several times, not just here on the blog, to be built using Seagate Iron Wolf drive media with specific Synology firmware on board. Arriving with 180-terabyte annual workloads, 5400rpm, 256-megabyte cache, arriving in a CMR architecture and air-sealed – the specifications we see here are all quite standard. The 12TB benefits from an increased RPM and helium sealing, as per most 12 TB drives in the market, but apart from that the Synology Plus hard drive series are going to run quieter than most pro or enterprise-class drives, as well as have a slightly lower power consumption, but are also going to have a slight performance decrease than that of the HAT5300 and HAT3300. But that is only going to be of significance in larger RAID configurations realistically.

Classification	Domestic SATA
Series Name	PLUS
Model	HAT3300
Interface	SATA 6Gb
Recording	CMR/PMR
Capacity (5/23)	4/6/8/12TB
RPM	5400RPM (7200 on 12TB)
Cache	256MB
Sector Size	512e
Max Transfer Speed (Capacity Dependant)	202/240MB/s
Drive Sealing	AIR/AIR/AIR/Helium
Power Use (Idle)	3.96/3.4/3.4/5.07W
Power Use (Active)	4.85/5.3/5.3/8.33W
Load/Unload Cycles	600K
Workload Rating	180TB (Annual)
MTBF (Hrs)	1Million
Warranty	3 Years

How Do Synology HAT3300 Plus HDDs Compare with HAT5300 Enterprise HDDs?

The differences between the Synology HAT3300, HAT5300/HAS5300 are pretty much exactly as you would find if you compared WD Red and Seagate IronWolf versus that of Seagate Exos and WD Ultrastar. Indeed, I am a little surprised that Synology has not introduced a middle ground in the form of a pro series drive, but perhaps this is something that will roll out later down the line. Nevertheless, this results in quite a void of performance, durability, and scale between these two ranges when compared to long-term established server hard drive ranges from these other companies filling the gaps of capacity and pro middle ground choices. It should be immediately highlighted that regardless of which Synology hard drive you opt for, you still benefit from firmware updates being actionable from within the Synology DSM software, easier and more streamlined warranty support, and firmware optimization that is specifically tailored towards Synology hardware deployment. We have discussed this at length previously when discussing the Synology enterprise hard drives and SSDs, and although you pay a premium for Synology’s own branded drives when compared to third-party alternatives that people have been using for decades, there are nonetheless merits in using drives specifically geared towards your NAS system rather than requiring a slightly broader design that suits more diverse servers. Here is how the Synology enterprise SATA, enterprise SAS, and mid-range plus hard drives differ in their specifications:

Classification	Enterprise SATA	Enterprise SAS	Domestic SATA
Series Name	Enterprise/XS	Enterprise/XS	PLUS
Model	HAT5300	HAS5300	HAT3300
Interface	SATA 6Gb	SAS 12Gb	SATA 6Gb
Recording	CMR/PMR	CMR/PMR	CMR/PMR
Capacity (5/23)	4/8/12/16/18TB	8/12/16/18TB	4/6/8/12TB
RPM	7200RPM	7200RPM	5400RPM (7200 on 12TB)
Cache	256/512MB	256/512MB	256MB
Sector Size	512e	512e	512e
Max Transfer Speed (Capacity Dependant)	254/260/253/274/281MB/s	241/253/274MB/s	202/240MB/s
Drive Sealing	AIR/AIR/Helium/Helium/Helium	AIR/Helium/Helium/Helium	AIR/AIR/AIR/Helium
Power Use (Idle)	4.07/5.61/4.25/4.00/4.16W	6.62/4.36/4.46W	3.96/3.4/3.4/5.07W
Power Use (Active)	7.76/9.29/7.83/7.63/8.35W	9.87/7.80/8.12W	4.85/5.3/5.3/8.33W
Load/Unload Cycles	600K	600K	600K
Workload Rating	550TB (Annual)	550TB (Annual)	180TB (Annual)
MTBF (Hrs)	2.0/2.5Million	2.5Million	1Million
Warranty	5 Years	5 Years	3 Years

Synology HAT3300 Plus HDDs – How Has Synology Approached NAS Compatibility on these drives?

This is one area in presentation by Synology that I really think they have done considerably better with the launch of the HAT3300 than previous Synology storage media releases. Previously, when Synology rolled out new enterprise hardware in both NAS and media form, one area of contention was limited compatibility. It makes sense and is largely industry practice for high-level enterprise solutions to arrive as complete single ecosystem solutions whereby both the server and media are supplied by a single provider, and Synology has certainly pursued the unified storage market in this way by limiting official support of their enterprise-grade systems to only support their enterprise drives. However, for users in the mid-range, prosumer and even SMB markets that want to stretch their budget towards Synology hardware designed a little more for enterprise, the restrictions towards these drives have made budgeting a little more difficult. This is in stark contrast with the arguably more flexible approach that Synology has taken towards support on their Plus series drives with mid-range and value series Synology NAS hardware. The Synology HAT3300 Plus series is chiefly designed for their Plus, Standard, Value, and DVA systems. However, CRUCIALLY, you are not fixed to only use these drives in these more affordable systems. The HAT3300 drives arrive as a choice between them and the WD/ Seagate/ Toshiba alternatives.

Key: ✗ = Not Compatible, ✓ = Compatible, L/C Limited Compatibility

Classification	Enterprise SATA	Enterprise SAS	Domestic SATA
Series Name	Enterprise/XS	Enterprise/XS	PLUS
FS / All-flash array	✗	✗	✗
HD / High density	✗	✓	✗
SA / High scalability	✓	✓	✗
UC / iSCSI/FC SAN	✗	✓	✗
RS XS / Rackstation Ent	✓	✗	✗
RS+ / Rackstation SMB	✓	✗	L/C
DS XS / Desktop Ent	✓	✗	✗
DS+ / Desktop SMB	L/C	✗	✓
DVA / AI Powered NVR	L/C	✗	✓
DS / Value	✗	✗	✓
J / Entry Level	✗	✗	✓

Interestingly, it is when we look at deploying the Synology HAT3300 drives in more enterprise-level systems that we see Synology opt-in to not support these drives in these higher-end systems. There are both pros and cons to this move that I can see. On the plus side, it would have been very easy for Synology to allow the use of these drives in their enterprise-level systems and present users with the illusion of choice of opting between enterprise or regular class drives in their higher-end systems and make these higher-tier servers more palatable as a single ecosystem solution. I am therefore impressed that the brand did not opt for this easy/quick buck that would have been almost immediately highlighted by critics as a cash grab and undermining the key arguments the brand has stated regarding only enterprise drives in their enterprise systems to date. However, there is no denying that some are going to be disappointed and hope you could use these more affordable first-party drives in larger Synology SA/XS/UC systems and leverage their budget a little bit more towards power than storage. It’s going to be a point of contention to some. Regardless, overall, I think Synology has made the right call on this occasion in compatibility in order to maintain their position on enterprise-level systems, whilst not restricting or locking compatibility on lower and mid-tier solutions.

When Will the HAT3300 Plus HDDs be released, and How Much Will They Be?

The release of the new Synology HAT 3300 hard drive is clearly very imminent. Information on these drives has been directly and indirectly appearing online now for a number of weeks and with the recent rollout of Synology DSM 7.2 and a number of key mid to high-level Synology NAS hardware seeing refreshes in the next 6 months, now is a very good time to roll out these new regular class NAS hard drives and..well.. they did! Launch day is today (31/-5/23). Thanks to price feeds and listings for these drives appearing on multiple websites online, the pricing of all four capacities of the HAT3300 drives that will be launched can be confirmed moderately accurately and are as follows:

Synology HAT3300-4TB = $89 (Check Amazon)

Synology HAT3300-6TB = $149 (Check Amazon)

Synology HAT3300-8TB = $189 (Check Amazon)

Synology HAT3300-12TB = $249 (Check Amazon)

Asustor AS5402T and AS5404T HDD+M.2 NVMe NAS

At the annual Computex technology exhibition in Taipei this week, storage solutions brand Asustor revealed its latest offerings to the market: the new AS5402T 2-Bay and AS5404T 4-Bay NAS (Network Attached Storage) solutions. These compact yet powerful devices come packed with features that are designed to provide efficient and reliable storage for both personal and professional uses. Both the AS5402T and AS5404T are powered by Intel’s Celeron processor, a well-established name for SOHO/Prosumer NAS in offering optimum performance and power efficiency. Along with this, both devices feature DDR4 memory for fast and efficient data processing. The 2-Bay and 4-Bay configurations provide ample space for 2x / 4x SATA HDDs, ensuring a broad range of options for storage scalability. A standout feature in the new offerings is the inclusion of 4x PCIe Gen 3 m.2 NVMe bays. These high-speed slots allow users to install NVMe SSDs for caching or tiered storage, significantly enhancing the performance of frequently accessed data. The AS5402T and AS5404T also feature dual 2.5GbE Network Connections. These high-speed connections ensure swift data transfer rates, making them ideal for businesses that handle large volumes of data or require real-time access. The HDMI 2.0b output supports 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, providing users with a seamless, high-definition multimedia experience.

In terms of connectivity, these NAS devices come with three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports that support speeds up to 10Gb/s, allowing for quick and easy external data access and backups. The devices also include a 65W/90W External PSU, ensuring efficient power delivery while maintaining the overall compact form factor. Keeping these power-packed devices cool are the 1x 70mm and 1x 120mm rear fans, efficiently managing thermal output and ensuring longevity of the system components. The compact dimensions, 170(H) x 114(W) x 230(D) mm for the 2-bay and 170(H) x 174(W) x 230(D) mm for the 4-bay, make these devices a perfect fit for any home or office setup. Asustor had an impressively dense stand at the computed show, and although the newly released Flashstor 6 and 12 Pro were clearly the focus, there was also reveal of a new Home/Prosumer/SMB 2/4-Bay NAS systems in the AS54 series. Following in the footsteps of the refresh in 2022 of the Locksterstor series to a Gen 2, the AS5404T and AS 5402T are an upgraded refresh of the 2019 released Nimbustor series. These new desktop NAS systems arrive with a newer generation Intel Celeron CPU, DDR4 Memory, 2/4 SATA HDD bays, but also include four M.2 NVMe SSD slots too (much like the aforementioned Lockerstor Gen 2 Upgrade). Likewise, the USB ports have been upgraded to USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s) and the system still retains the 2.5GbE x2 Network Connectivity.

Asustor AS5402T and AS5404T NAS Hardware Highlights

• Click to view slideshow.

• Intel N5105 Celeron CPU, 2-2.9Ghz with Int.Gfx
• 4GB DDR4 Memory
• 2x / 4x SATA HDDs
• 4x PCIe Gen 3 m.2 NVMe Bays

Click to view slideshow.

• 2x 2.5GbE Network Connections
• HDMI 2.0b 4K 60PFS Output
• 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gb/s Ports
• 65W/90W External PSU
• 1x 70mm / 1x 120mm Rear Fan
• 170(H) x 114(W) x 230(D) mm / 170(H) x 174(W) x 230(D) mm
• 3Yr Warranty

What Was the Asustor Nuimbuster NAS?

Do you remember the Asustor Nimbustor series? It sometimes blows my mind that despite the growing popularity of this brand in NAS, the Nimbustor 2 and 4 ended up being largely overlooked by many. Part of this was to do with it arriving in the market at the same time as many, many high-profile releases in 2019/2020, but also because shortly after the same brand released the largely superior Locksterstor series (at a small increase in $) which massively overshadowed the nimbustor series. Nonetheless, the Nimbustor was a fantastically capable box, it was the FIRST commercial desktop turnkey NAS to arrive with 2.5GbE connectivity when everyone else was still mucking around with 1GbE and the first to jump into using the J4000 series of Intel Celeron processors too. Therefore I was particularly chuffed when I saw that Asustor had revised this series in a new refresh for 2023/2024 and this time, I can definitely see it making a bigger splash! 

When will the Asustor AS5404T and AS5402T NAS Be Released, and what Price?

The Nimbustor 2/4 FROM 2019 was always a system I thought was massively overlooked in favour of it’s bigger brother and sisters in the Lockerstor series. But the new AS5402T and AS5404T are considerably more modernized options and the inclusion of a two-tier storage system in such a compact form is going to be enormously compelling and competitive in 2023/2024. We fully expect the price point of the AS54 series to be comparable to the $350/$450 (ex.TAX) of the AS52/53 series, perhaps with a small increase factoring in the years.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Every Gen 5 NVMe SSD On Show at Computex 2023

I think it would be fair to say that 2023 is fast turning into the REAL launch year for Gen 5 NVMes. Although the impact of factors such as the pandemic, hardware shortages and political tensions in trading blocks has delayed the planned rollout for PCIe Gen 5 M.2 SSDs from 2022 as it was anticipated, 2023 has seen a huge boost in the number of brands that have introduced their own Gen 5 SSDs (with 3-4 Gen5 controllers currently bubbling to the top from Phison, Innogrit and Silicon Motion) and Computex 2023 turned out to be the debut of several new SSDs (as well as the final physical reveal of some drives that upto this point had been little more than ‘press release’ fodder). There is still an argument to be made whether the average domestic client machine is going to be able to achieve significant jumps over Gen4 without the very latest gen CPU/Mobo combos, but still nonetheless, the Gen 5 SSD market has opened up significantly! So, today I want to go though all the PCIe Gen 5 SSDs that were at Computex 2023, what stood out about each of them and hopefully help you decide whether they deserve your data later in 2023.

The ADATA Project Neonstorm Gen 5 SSD

Of all the Gen5 SSDs that were revealed at Computex, the ADATA Neonstorm made the BIGGEST SPLASH! With a large-scale model of the drive towering above their stand, it was very hard to miss! The ADATA Neonstorm is a unique drive for two specific reasons when compared to all the other drives revealed at Computex. With the first reason being that it is one of the very few water-cooled M.2 NVMe SSDs in the market (and the ONLY GEN5 SSD that arrives with a preattached, fan-assisted and water-cooled heatsink. It definitely it a very unique-looking SSD and much like other drives in the XPG series, arrives with an incredible sense of style.

And 2) it is arriving with the Silicon Motion SM2508 controller! This is important, as 9/10 of Gen5 SSDs that have been revealed in the last 12 months are using the Phison E26 controller (as well as proprietary controllers as used by brands such as KOIXIA and Samsung). Currently, this controller, with the right NAND, has been reported to hit 14,000MB/s Sequential Read and 12,000MB/s Sequential Write – placing it higher than the Phison E26 controller’s current top speed. Additionally, this controller also reports a maximum IOPS of 2 Million 4K Random in both read and write – with ADATA maintaining that the Neonstorm can hit these numbers!

Like many of the SSDs that were shown at Computex, the ADATA project Neonstorm drive did not share much in the way of specifics about durability, but did report that the drive will be available in/after launch in upto 8TB – which is massive! Although there are a lot of SSDs that will be covered in this article, this is probably the most intriguing.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Project Neonstorm
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	Upto 8TB
NAND	3D TLC
Controller	Silicon Motion SM2508
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 12GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	2 Million / 2 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes. Features Watercooling, Aluminimum Casing and top/bottom fans
Notes	The first drive to be revealed with the Silicon Motion SM2508 Controller and out performing currrently Phison E26 (which is currently peaking at 12GB/11GB)

The ADATA Legend 970 Gen 5 SSD

Alongside The Project Neonstorm SSD, ADATA also took the opportunity at Computex 2023 to reveal another Gen 5 SSD in their lineup, the ADATA Legend 970. This drive was a little more conventional (if such a term can be used in this latest generation of NVMe SSDs), arriving with a far more traditional M.2 heatsink and performance numbers that are more comparable to a lot of the initially revealed Gen 5 SSDs back in 2022, when early prototypes started appearing.

The reason for this arguably more mainstream performance from this Gen 5×4 SSD is because unlike the Neonstorm arriving with a rather unique controller, the ADATA Legend 970 arrives with the popular Phison E26 Gen5 controller that a vast number of other SSDs have been launched within this generation.

That doesn’t detract from it having solid performance numbers and definitely serves as a more affordable and realistic alternative to the still WiP Neonstorm.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Legend 970
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1-2TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	10GB / 10GB
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	1.4 Million / 1.4 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, Fanless, Compact surface area
Notes

The Patriot Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD

Patriot was another brand that took the chance at Computex 2023 to reveal two SSDs, a prototype ‘in progress’ one and a ‘close to release’ featured drive – the Patriot Viper PV553 is the latter! Arriving with a proprietary heatsink, that although one of the most compact/low of any of the SSDs at the show, still has very good vent design and an onboard fan.

The hardware architecture is pretty familiar from what we saw, another Phison E26 Controller SSD, but they boasted performance numbers a pinch higher than others on a similar performance level. Now, they did not elaborate on how this was possible, but we can assume it arrives with 212 layer 3D TLC NAND (again, TBC), which would help things, as many of the initially revealed drives that keenly mentioned the use of this controller, were still yet to fully take advantage of the recent increases in layer density from brands like micron, etc.

The previous generation Patriot Viper VP4300 was a great drive and one we previously reviewed on the channel positively, also commenting on it’s affordability too. I can definitely see this new PV553 Gen5 drive following suit in order to gain a strong early foothold in this gen of NVMe SSDs.

Brand	Patriot
Model ID	Viper PV553
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB, 2TB, 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	2-4GB DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, heatsink, aluminium panel surround, connected fan
Notes

The Patriot DRAM-less Gen 5 SSD (In development)

Yep! As crazy as it sounds, with Gen 5 NVMes still barely being available globally and what there is being considered ‘first generation’, Patriot are waisting no time in stretching their muscles in this area by working on a DRAMless (I.e no on-drive memory) PCIe Gen 5×4 SSD. Now, if you are relatively new to SSDs (Gen 5 or otherwise) you might not quite understand the significance of this. I’ll get to that in a second, but despite this drive in development for Patriot arriving with DRAM , they state it can still hit 12,000MB/s Seq Read and 10,500MB/s Sequential Write. Which still puts in squarely in the ballpark of most other Gen 5 SSDs.

So, what does DRAMLESS mean? SSDs run not dissimilar to a computer. They need a CPU (the SSD Controller), storage space (the NAND, where your data lives) and in most cases, memory, to handle tasks on the fly. However, some SSDs that are designed for low sustained (I.e periods of time) tasks, low-powered systems and/or for a more affordable target market, will look at SSDs that make savings by running without the memory (I.e the DRAM). There are numerous Gen 3 and Gen 4 DRAMless SSDs – but these arrived later in the rollout of their respective generation of drive gens. Although Patriot did not flat out state which controller their DRAMless drive would arrive with, we can take an educated guess. Patriot has utilized Phison for their SSD controllers for a long time (particularly in the Gen4 generation) and recently Phison revealed their Gen5 DRAMLESS controller, the PS5031-E31T, supporting upto 8TB capacities, as well as both TLC and QLCC NAND. It’s tilll not 100% confirmed that this will be the controller it will be using, but it’s the most likely estimation at the time of writing.

So, how can a DRAMless SSD match (and, according to Patriot, actually surpass other Gen5 SSDs) an SSD that has DRAM? Well, currently the infrastructure of systems that have rolled out with PCIe Gen 5 support are not really able to fully take advantage of to full performance benefits of PCIe Gen 5. This will change over time, but right now this is something of a system bottleneck across most devices outside of the exceptionally high end system arena. This will change of course, but it means that DRAMless SSDs might actually stand half a chance to compete. They just need to be viewed in the context of drives that cannot compete with DRAM drives in sustained operations! Also, if you thought the heatsinks on many Gen5 SSDs up to this point were big – imagine what this DRAMless Gen5 SSD is going to need! The prototype on show was just chips on a board, so there was no indication of how heat dissipation will eventually be realised, but it will be very interesting to find out!

Brand	Pariot
Model ID	ProtoType
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB, 2TB, 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison PS5031-E31T
Memory	No, DRAMLESS
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12GB/s / 10.5GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	1.5Million / 1.5 Million (Based on Phison Spec)
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	TBC
Notes	Still Work In Progress,

Teamgroup T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 SSD

Teamgroup were another brand that made quite a lot of noise at Computex 2023, with their new Cardea Z5 series front and center. Their Gen5 SSD was another Phison E26 SSD and one that boasted a 14GB/s Seq read – pretty much the consistent top end of what SSDs with their controller have been able to report max. That said, we know that the host system is going to need to be pretty top end to hit these kind of numbers.

Alongside the reveal of the Teamgroup Cardea Z5 Gen5 SSD, they also showed off one of the BEST selections of Gen5 ready heatsinks of ANY brand at the show! The Teamgroup Dark Airflow Series (1, 2 and 3).

Starting with a chunky slated aluminium stack style heatsink that was finned from top to bottom, you then had a rotating structured heatsink with copper pipe design to pull air over the heatsink in a targetted fashion. Then you had the multi-layer plated heatsink (also with a copper pipe) that had an integrated fan.

Finally, they had the water-cooling kit heatsink that arrived with it’s own dedicated and integrated system case fan and dual pipe water connections. Although the subject of SSD heat and potential throttling has been approached by many brands, this is by FAR the most impressive and detailed addressing of the subject by a brand. Both at Computex AND just generally in the whole Gen5 SSD scene right now. Kudos to them!

Brand	Teamgroup
Model ID	Cardea Z5
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB – 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 11GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	No (Has Heatshield) – Multiple Versions Available Optionally. The Dark Air Flow Series of H/S’ + the Siren GD120S Water Cooled Heatsink kit
Notes	Watercooloing Heatsink Option and many other versions

The Gigabyte Aorus 12000 Gen5 SSD

When the very first wave of commercial/consumer Gen5 SSDs dropped, one of the first was the Gigabyte Aorus 10000 (which you can now buy), however the price of being ‘first’ to a new industry standard can all too often mean that your product loses out on the time when other brands wait a little longer and capitalize on growing efficiency and proficiency in the storage medium. That is clearly why Gigabyte then followed up that SSD with the reveal at Computex of the finished Gigabyte 12000 Gen5 SSD.

Now, the Gigabyte 12000 get’s its name from the reported 12GB/s seq Read (12,400MB/s Reported Max) and close to 12GB/s seq Write (Actually 11,800MB/s) that it can hit in an optimal system setup (a decent chunk better than the 10GB/10GB of the Gigabyte 10000) #.

It’s another Phison E26 (shocker!) controller built SSD and although it is pretty comparable to the previous Gen5 release from them, it almost certainly benefits from improved NAND layer and perhaps a memory increase at the higher cap (TBC – but seeing a lot of that in the newest Gen5 E26 drives).

Brand	Gigabyte
Model ID	Aorus 12000
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, Heat Pipe Version +vents + Nanocarbon Coating
Notes	Gigabyte Aorus 10000 Already Available

The KIOXIA CM7 E3.1 Enterprise Gen5 SSD Series

And now for something completely different! Kioxia is arguably one of the most well-known brand in enterprise-grade SSD and with the data center class drives starting to roll out in small quantities, it was inevitable that KIOXIA would be one of the first and the loudest. We actually knew about the CM7 series prior to Computex 2023, but this was the drive’s first real public display. Arriving in two version, the CM7 series is designed for high performance, but also sustained and durable long-term reliability. First, we have the KIOXIA CM7SAS drive.

Arriving in a compact 7mm 2.5” casing, this drive directly outputs into SAS / U.3 connectivity (PCIe Gen5 Single x4, dual x2), as well as in capacities that start at 1980GB and then scale up massively to a whopping 30,720GB – whilst still maintaining that slim 7mm height! As these are data center class, needless to say, durability is HIGH! Starting at 1.0 DWPD (Drive Writes per Day) and ending at 3.0 DWPD. That means that, even keeping in mind the increase rigours of Gen5 writing, these drives can write 1-3 drives of fresh data a DAY (overwriting each time). They also peak at 14GB/s Seq Read (though their Seq Write peaks at 7GB/s)

The other version of the KIOXIA CM7 Series on show was the E3,S version. E3.S is a part of the continuing evolution of PCIe storage to make it more data center/server efficient and convenient (better surface area for storage, chip distribution, hot swapping, etc) and it is no surprise that KIOXIA have entered this area so quickly (as have a few other enterprise SSD brands, sensing the way the wind is blowing!). It’s also worth mentioning that, as it is a data center class SSD, they both arrive with options for SED/Self-Encrypted-Drive, Power Loss Protection (PLP) and FIPS support.

Brand	KIOXIA
Model ID	CM7 Series – E3.S Interface
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1920GB – 30,720GB
NAND	112 Layer Proprietary 3D TLC NAND
Controller	Proprietary
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 7GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	1-3DWPD
Includes Heatsink?	In 2.5” 15MM-7MM Casing, SAS
Notes	Enterprise Grade, Durability Priority, Encryption Support, PLP, U.3 Support (downgrades to PCIe Gen4)

The Samsung PM1743 U3.2 Gen5 SSD

Another SSD that we have discussed on the channel previously appeared, almost stealthily, at the Supermicro stand at Computex – The Samsung PM1743 SSD. This is an SSD that has popped up incredibly rarely since it was first revealed, with most devices already rolled out towards existing top tier hyperscale/unified storage users in early rollout in the background. Much like the KIOXIA CM7 series, the PM1743 is another U3.S SSD that is aimed at the EXACT same enterprise market.

Samsung has been starting to turn things around following their slight struggles with NAND/Memory shortages (much like everyone else) but with the advantage (in most areas) or developing their SSD components ‘in-house’. This also means that the specifications of their components are a great deal harder to pin down, as they are most proprietary and more often than not, publicly withheld (same applies to the bulk of their SSD components in older-gen drives).

Samsung (along with Seagate and WD) are still among the BIGGEST names in SSD that have yet to reveal a consumer/M.2 NVMe SSD for Gen5, seemingly all prioritizing the data center class initially (where the money is!). But we will almost certainly see this change in the 2^nd half of 2023. They also showed off the highly praised Samsung Gen 5 SSD Expander module.

Brand	Samsung
Model ID	PM1743 U3.S
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 15.36TB
NAND	Proprietary
Controller	Proprietary
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/S / 7.1GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	2.5 Million / 360K
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Cased
Notes	U3.S Interface, 7mm Height, the CXL Memory Expander also on show at SuperMicro Stand

The KLEVV CRAS C950 Gen5 SSD

A relatively lesser-known brand outside of Taiwan, KLEVV revealed their own Gen 5 SSD, the CRAS C950. Now, I include it here, despite it’s localized/limited global availability later, because it was a great example at Computex of Gen 5 SSD architecture and components starting to trick down into the lesser established brands. This is something we did not really see in the Gen4 generation for almost a year and a half.

Yet, Gen5 has barely established itself and we have already started seeing the less prominent SSD brand begin to roll out their very own Phison E26 Gen5 SSDs. Arriving with a fairly standard heatsink that features a branded aluminium trim, the C950 is largely comparable to many of the standard Gen5 SSDs that have been revealed. Despite this though, it boasts availability in upto 4TB and transfer speeds of 12GB/s and 11GB/s Seq Read/Write, respectively.

It might not seem the most exciting drive, when the specifications are similar to many that have already been made public in the last 6-7 months, BUT its the fact that we have started seeing more accessible Gen5 SSDs enter the market, which inevitably means this new faster tier of NVMe SSD storage is going to gradually become more consumer affordable!

Brand	KLEVV
Model ID	CRAS C950
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB – 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	12GB/s / 11GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, standard style, name plate
Notes	Taiwanese Local Brand

Other Gen 5 SSDs to Watch out for in 2023/2024?

In the world of PCIe Gen 5 SSDs, we have already seen a lot of other drives arrive on the scene. Their increased speed and efficiency make them an excellent choice for those who require high-performance storage solutions. Aside from all the Computex 2023 SSDs revealed above, here are the rest of the Gen5 SSDs you should be looking out for as they roll out:

Apacer’s AS2280F5 is another model in the PCIe Gen 5 lineup. While specific capacity and controller information are not available, the AS2280F5 offers read speeds of up to 13.0 GB/s and write speeds up to 12.0 GB/s. The SSD comes with a 5-year warranty.

CFD’s PG5NFZ SSD ranges from 1 to 4TB in capacity and utilizes a Phison PS5026-E26 controller. The model uses Micron 232L TLC NAND and DDR4 DRAM, boasting read and write speeds of 9.5 GB/s and 8.5 GB/s respectively. It also comes with a 3-year warranty.

The Corsair MP700 comes in capacities from 1 to 4TB. With the Phison PS5026-E26 controller, Corsair 3D TLC NAND, and read and write speeds of 10.0 GB/s and 9.5 GB/s, respectively, this SSD offers robust performance.

The Crucial T700 utilizes a Phison PS5026-E26 controller and Micron 232L TLC NAND. With capacities ranging from 1 to 4TB, this SSD delivers read speeds up to 12.4 GB/s and write speeds up to 11.8 GB/s. Crucial also offers a 5-year warranty on the T700.

The Galax HOF Extreme 50 and HOF 50 both offer 1TB and 2TB capacities and utilize a Phison PS5026-E26 controller and Micron 232L TLC NAND. These SSDs offer read speeds of up to 9.5 GB/s and 10.0 GB/s respectively, and write speeds of 8.5 GB/s and 9.5 GB/s respectively. They come with a 5-year warranty.

The Gigabyte Aorus G5 10000 is available in capacities ranging from 1 to 4TB. Utilizing a Phison PS5026-E26 controller and Micron 232L TLC NAND, it offers impressive read speeds up to 10.0 GB/s and write speeds up to 9.5 GB/s. This SSD also includes a 5-year warranty.

Goodram’s IRDM Ultimate SSD comes in capacities from 1 to 4TB. It uses a Phison PS5026-E26 controller, Micron 232L TLC NAND, and can deliver read and write speeds up to 10.0 GB/s and 9.5 GB/s respectively. The IRDM Ultimate also includes a 3-year warranty.

The Inland TD510 is available in 1TB and 2TB capacities. It features a Silicon Motion SM2508 controller, Kioxia 144L TLC NAND, and offers read and write speeds up to 13.0 GB/s and 12.0 GB/s, respectively.

MSI has two options in the PCIe Gen5 lineup: the Spatium M570 HS and M570. Both models use a Phison PS5026-E26 controller and Micron 232L TLC NAND. The Spatium M570 HS is available in capacities from 1 to 4TB and offers read speeds up to 10.0 GB/s and write speeds up to 9.5 GB/s. The Spatium M570 comes in capacities from 1 to 2TB and provides read and write speeds up to 9.5 GB/s and 9.0 GB/s, respectively. Both models come with a 5-year warranty.

The Mushkin Epsilon comes with capacities ranging from 1 to 4TB. Utilizing a Silicon Motion SM2508 controller and Micron 232L TLC NAND, the Epsilon boasts read and write speeds of up to 14.0 GB/s and 12.0 GB/s, respectively.

The Nextstorage Gen5 SSD comes in capacities of 1TB and 2TB. This model uses a Phison PS5026-E26 controller, Micron 232L TLC NAND, and provides read and write speeds up to 10.0 GB/s and 9.5 GB/s, respectively.

The Sabrent Rocket X5 comes in capacities from 1 to 8TB. It uses a Silicon Motion SM2508 controller, Kioxia 144L TLC NAND, and boasts impressive read and write speeds of up to 14.0 GB/s and 12.0 GB/s, respectively.

The SSTC Tiger Shark SSD offers capacities ranging from 1 to 4TB. It utilizes a Silicon Motion SM2508 controller, Kioxia 144L TLC NAND, and delivers read and write speeds up to 14.0 GB/s and 12.0 GB/s, respectively.

Zadak’s TWSG5 SSD is available in capacities ranging from 1 to 4TB. It uses a Phison PS5026-E26 controller with Micron 232L TLC NAND, and delivers impressive read and write speeds up to 10.0 GB/s and 9.5 GB/s, respectively. The TWSG5 comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.

Please note that all specifications are as per the information provided by the manufacturers and real-world performance may vary based on system compatibility, usage, and other factors. Always check reviews and user experiences before making a final decision.

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And there you have it. Did I miss a drive that was at Computex? Are any of these SSDs shaping up to be ‘the one’ for you and your storage in 2023/2024? Let me know in the comments. Have a fantatsic week!

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

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Synology ChatGPT? Integrating an Optional AI in Synology Office & Mail Plus

When Synology hosted their Solutions exhibition parallel with the Computex 2023 event over in Taipei, it was always going to be a certainty that I would attend. Aside from featuring this brand regularly on the NASCompares YouTube Channel and Blog, I have always been impressed by the brand’s incredible prioritization of it’s software above all else. Although this can occasionally be to their detriment in the eyes of more hardware-focused users, no one could question the quality and level of R&D that has gone into DSM and its range of services. However, although a lot of new hardware was on show at their event, alongside pre-set demonstration stations to overview their abilities, the thing that REALLY stood out for me was an ‘in development’ feature to integrate AI support services into key DSM applications. Now, currently, the big buzzword in AI is ChapGPT of course. With everyone from beginners and enthusiasts, all the way to multinational corporations starting to discover the benefits of integrating AI into their workflow and operations. What Synology demo’d at their event, although clearly in early development, was a clear and considered implementation of the benefits of AI assistance from within the Synology ecosystem – more precisely those in the collaboration suite. In the demo, they showed how they were in the early steps of providing AI assistance in numerous areas of content creation and communication. Currently, this was shown in Synology Mail Plus and Synology Office. So, today I want to talk through how this was shown and what we can look forward to as functionality is slowly rolled out.

How is AI being integrated into Synology Mail Plus?

First and foremost, it is worth keeping in mind that the demonstration of the AI assistance was optional. It was not something that was running parallel/background of the mail server. The initial implementation was shown in the simple act of replying to an email. The AI tool needed to be selected from the control bar like any other tool, and from there it would allow you to respond to a new email or an existing conversation thread (thereby giving the AI access to contextual information, to better form a reply).

In the initial text box, you are invited to briefly enter the contents of the email in shorthand/bullet point/gist. There was a handful of presets (informal greeting email, request a meeting, questioning an order, etc), but much like the methodology of ChatGPT, the AI tool in Synology Mail Plus used the existing contextual information in the user/email thread in conjunction with your brief summary of the contents requirements.

From there, the AI tool in Mail Plus would then generate an email draft that you can preview that factored in the context and parameters you have entered. As you might expect, it is very fast, but again you need to keep in mind this is an early build and likely has less room given to stretch outside of hard-locked boundaries/parameters. If you are happy with the email draft it generates, you can just insert it into the email thread at the click of a button. But what if you are not happy with the results? Or need another service?

After the preview text is generated by the AI, you can use the ‘Modify’ drop-down menu to action several relevant changes. These currently include the option to make it longer/expand upon, make it shorter/to the point, or change the tone of the email (so it is better suited to the tone of the correspondence. Eg Professional, Polite, Straightforward, etc) or automatically translate it into several currently supported languages.

Again, these are not things that are not already available from online/public AI service providers, but it is the fact that this is being integrated into the Mail Plus service that makes it significantly more efficient and relevant to your day-to-day office comms.

You can also cycle through previous versions of the AI’s generated content in the Mail Plus AI window, allowing you to roll back to a previous creation that hit the mark better. These are well presented and all exactly where I would expect them in the GUI. But what else can the AI do for your email? We know it can create new content, but how does it help with pre-existing content in your mail server to save you time and money? For that, we need to discuss summarization.

I think we can all feel the pain of a long-running email chain (perhaps with a hand full of CCs that, when you go offsite for just a few hours, can become a complicated mess and/or become difficult to follow cohesively. Therefore I was alos impressed that Synology had chosen to integrate email summarization into the supported services of the AI. This allows you to simply use the AI to create a brief and concise summery of the whole email thread for digestion, and then use that contextual information to create an appropriate email reply. Once again, the actions of the AI are not what impresses me the most here (given the abundance and notoriety of ChatGPT, as well as service level AI integrations going as far as even Skype having an AI bot), it is the convenience and seamless integration of the AI into the existing Synology Email Plus service.

How is AI Being Integrated into Synology Office?

The AI’s integration into Synology Office was a little more predictable but nonetheless seamless. Synology Office has already seen a considerable number of improvements in recent in-app updates and in conjunction with DSM 7.2.

However, the ability to use an in-document contextual (I.e right click) menu to set the AI to work on a document is going to be hugely useful for users. The contextual options include:

• Revise the contents (all or highlighted text)

• Address spelling/grammatical errors

• Increase/decrease length

• Change the tone and stance

• Generate a summarization of the selected text

• Translation

• Profile/Template revision, i.e. convert the selected text into a new form, such as a blog post or a more general outline

As mentioned earlier, the benefits of integrating AI in this way into Synology Office are a lot more directly comparable to the likes of ChatGPT, but it is the contextual menu from within the office suite that many users are going to appreciate. So, what’s the catch? Is there one?

What Are the Considerations Right now for AI Support in Key Synology NAS Applications and Services?

As this is a tremendously early demonstration of what Synology plan to do with this feature, it’s hard to be critical of things like it’s presentation or the scope of the supported services – it is simply too early to see how this will eventually be integrated and accessible to the end user in the finished product. That said, Synology did state that at this time during development, it was still built on a 3^rd party AI component (whether that is ChatGPT, an established partner with their own AI tool or the likes of Google/Microsoft. That said, the similarities to ChatGPT are pretty apparent. This does also bring into question where remote access and processing come into play down the line when these AI-assisted services are more widely available. The hardware resource quantities needed to run something like this locally are going to be high, so a remotely connected service is largely inevitable – at least until AI efficiency and development moves forward considerably. Perhaps a Synology AI portal that a registered Synology user requires to tunnel through, much like C2 services or Synology Account services.

There are clearly benefits to AI implementation that have been well established in 2022/2023, and this built into/on-top of your existing Synology data does open the door to considerably more beneficial and tailored usage of you day-to-day office data. We will have to see how Synology roll this functionality out, much, MUCH later in 2023 no doubt.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Patriot Reveals Viper PV553 Gen 5 M.2 NVMe SSD and Teases Work-In-Progress DRAMless Gen 5 SSD at Computex 2023

The 2023 edition of Computex, held in Taipei, saw many hardware giants showcasing their latest and greatest tech innovations. Among them was Patriot, who took the chance to reveal two of their SSDs – the near-release Patriot Viper PV553 and a work-in-progress DRAMless Gen 5 SSD.

The Patriot Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD

Following the success of the previous generation Viper VP4300, the new Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD is sure to continue the legacy. The drive is a Phison E26 Controller SSD like many of its competitors, but Patriot claimed its performance numbers were slightly higher, although the company didn’t specify how this was achieved.

Specifications of the Patriot Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD:

• Brand: Patriot
• Model ID: Viper PV553
• PCIe Gen: PCIe Gen 5 x 4
• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
• NAND: 3D TLC NAND
• Controller: Phison E26
• Memory: 2-4GB DDR4
• Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W): 12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
• Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W): TBC
• Durability: TBC
• Includes Heatsink?: Yes, heatsink, aluminium panel surround, connected fan

The drive features an onboard fan and a proprietary, low-profile heatsink with an impressive vent design. We are yet to confirm, but it can be assumed that the drive is equipped with a 212 layer 3D TLC NAND, which can provide a performance boost over its competitors.

The Patriot DRAMless Gen 5 SSD (In Development)

Now, for the more surprising reveal: Patriot is already developing a DRAMless Gen 5 NVMe SSD. Despite being DRAMless (i.e., not having on-drive memory), Patriot claims that this SSD can still deliver impressive performance numbers: 12,000MB/s Sequential Read and 10,500MB/s Sequential Write, which makes it competitive with most other Gen 5 SSDs.

Specifications of the Patriot DRAMless Gen 5 SSD (prototype):

• Brand: Patriot
• Model ID: Prototype
• PCIe Gen: PCIe Gen 5 x 4
• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
• NAND: 3D TLC NAND
• Controller: Phison PS5031-E31T (TBC)
• Memory: No, DRAMLESS
• Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W): 12GB/s / 10.5GB/s
• Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W): 1.5Million / 1.5 Million (Based on Phison Spec)
• Durability: TBC
• Includes Heatsink?: TBC

The SSD controller in the prototype of Patriot’s DRAMless Gen 5 SSD is anticipated to be the Phison PS5031-E31T, although this isn’t yet confirmed. This controller marks a significant evolution in SSD technology, supporting capacities up to 8TB as well as both TLC and QLC NAND types. Being a DRAMless controller, it uses a technique known as the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) to leverage the system’s DRAM to provide the necessary workspace for drive operation, thus eliminating the need for on-drive memory. As SSD controllers play a crucial role in managing data storage and retrieval, optimizing power use, and ensuring data integrity, the use of the Phison PS5031-E31T controller in a DRAMless Gen 5 SSD suggests Patriot’s commitment to innovation and performance. It will be interesting to see how the absence of onboard memory affects the drive’s real-world performance in various scenarios.

In addition to their advancements in Gen 5 SSD technology, Patriot didn’t overlook the still-relevant Gen 4 market at Computex 2023. The brand also showcased new Gen 4 SSD, the Patriot Viper VP4300 lite, a DRAMless alternative tot heir popular VP4300 SSD (which we reviewed in 2022 in the ARTICLE here and VIDEO here) continuing to push the boundaries of this well-established technology. Their commitment to serving a wide range of users is evident in this dual-focus approach. More information about these Gen 4 SSDs will be coming soon, so stay tuned to learn more about the expanded offerings from Patriot.

So, what is a DRAMless SSD?

SSDs function quite like computers. They have a CPU (the SSD Controller), storage space (the NAND where your data lives), and typically, memory to handle tasks on the fly. Some SSDs, designed for low sustained tasks or low-powered systems, or simply to hit a more affordable price point, operate without the memory or DRAM. While there are several Gen 3 and Gen 4 DRAMless SSDs, it’s unusual to see a Gen 5 DRAMless SSD this early in the generation. How does a DRAMless SSD match or surpass other Gen 5 SSDs that have DRAM? The answer lies in the current limitations of most systems supporting PCIe Gen 5. These systems cannot fully exploit the performance benefits of PCIe Gen 5, creating a kind of bottleneck. This may change over time, but as of now, it gives DRAMless SSDs a competitive edge, although they may not match DRAM SSDs in sustained operations.

As for the heatsinks on these drives, it’s anyone’s guess! The prototype Patriot showed was bare chips on a board, so no indications on the final heat dissipation solution. But it’s safe to say that it’s going to be interesting to find out how they tackle this! Please note that many of the specifications are to be confirmed (TBC) as they are not finalized or officially announced by Patriot yet. But stay tuned for more updates on these exciting SSD advancements!

When will the Patriot Viper PV553  SSD or DRAMless Gen 5 SSD Bwe Released, and how much will they be?

While Patriot has yet to announce an official price for the Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD and the DRAMless Gen 5 SSD, industry insiders speculate that they may be competitively priced with other Gen 5 SSDs set to hit the market soon. Given the past pricing strategies of Patriot and the desire to gain an early foothold in the Gen 5 SSD market, it’s reasonable to expect a balance of performance and affordability. As for the release timeline, the targeted window appears to be Q3, potentially as early as September or October 2023. As always, these details are subject to change and will be confirmed as we approach the release date. Patriot continues to push the boundaries of SSD technology with their latest releases at Computex 2023. The Viper PV553 Gen 5 SSD looks promising, carrying the reputation of its predecessor and offering impressive performance numbers. But the true intrigue lies in the development of their DRAMless Gen 5 SSD. While still in its infancy, the prototype already promises competitive performance, and it’s clear that the tech world will be watching Patriot closely for updates. These advancements not only stand as a testament to Patriot’s innovation but also signal exciting times ahead for SSD technology as a whole. As we keep our eyes peeled for more information, one thing’s certain: the future of storage solutions is here, and it’s faster than ever.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Computex 2023 Reveals: The ADATA Project Neonstorm and Legend 970 Gen 5 SSDs

As the Computex 2023 unfolds in Taipei, Taiwan, ADATA has certainly made an eye-catching impression with the reveal of their unique ADATA XPG Project Neonstorm Prototype Gen 5 SSD. An SSD that not only steps up the game in terms of technical prowess but also challenges the traditional conventions of SSD design.

The ADATA Project Neonstorm Gen 5 SSD

The Neonstorm truly lived up to its name at Computex, making the biggest splash in the world of SSDs. This drive is unique in two key aspects: it is one of the very few water-cooled M.2 NVMe SSDs available in the market, and it is currently the only Gen 5 SSD to feature a preattached, fan-assisted and water-cooled heatsink. This combination of cooling solutions gives the Neonstorm an unmistakable visual appeal that echoes the distinct style of the XPG series.

Even more notably, the Neonstorm is using the Silicon Motion SM2508 controller, which is a rarity among Gen 5 SSDs that have predominantly used the Phison E26 controller. The SM2508 boasts impressive performance figures, potentially reaching a whopping 14,000MB/s Sequential Read and 12,000MB/s Sequential Write – exceeding the peak speeds of the Phison E26. It also supports a maximum IOPS of 2 million in both read and write, which ADATA claims the Neonstorm can achieve.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Project Neonstorm
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	Upto 8TB
NAND	3D TLC
Controller	Silicon Motion SM2508
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 12GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	2 Million / 2 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes. Features Watercooling, Aluminimum Casing and top/bottom fans
Notes	The first drive to be revealed with the Silicon Motion SM2508 Controller and out performing currrently Phison E26 (which is currently peaking at 12GB/11GB)

While durability specifications are not yet available, the Neonstorm is set to be available in capacities up to an impressive 8TB at launch, making this one of the most intriguing SSDs revealed at Computex.

The ADATA Legend 970 Gen 5 SSD

ADATA also unveiled another addition to their Gen 5 lineup at Computex 2023, the Legend 970. This drive, compared to its flashy sibling, adopts a more traditional approach, including a more typical M.2 heatsink and performance figures that are more in line with the initial Gen 5 SSD prototypes from 2022.

The Legend 970 features the widely-used Phison E26 Gen 5 controller, contributing to its relatively mainstream performance metrics. However, this doesn’t mean it lacks in power – it still delivers strong performance and offers a more affordable and practical alternative to the still-in-development Neonstorm.

Brand	ADATA XPG
Model ID	Legend 970
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1-2TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	TBC
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	10GB / 10GB
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	1.4 Million / 1.4 Million
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	Yes, Fanless, Compact surface area
Notes

Benefits of Water Cooling vs Fans and Heatsinks on Gen 5 SSDs

The advent of water-cooled SSDs like the Neonstorm brings an interesting discussion to the table – the advantages of water cooling over traditional fans and heatsinks in SSDs. Water cooling can provide superior thermal management, which is increasingly important as SSDs continue to ramp up in speed and performance, especially with the Gen 5 SSDs.

The advantages of water cooling include more efficient heat dissipation, potential for higher performance due to better thermal regulation, and less noise compared to fan-based solutions. This can be particularly beneficial in Gen 5 SSDs like the Neonstorm, which push the performance envelope and generate more heat. However, such advanced cooling solutions may come at a higher cost and might pose challenges in terms of installation and maintenance compared to simpler fan and heatsink designs.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, ADATA has truly raised the bar at Computex 2023 with the Neonstorm and the Legend 970, each catering to different segments of the Gen 5 SSD market. The Neonstorm’s distinct water-cooling solution and impressive performance figures make it a fascinating evolution in the SSD landscape, while the Legend 970 serves as a reliable, high-performing drive for more conventional use-cases. It’s interesting to see how different brands are innovating and introducing their unique takes on Gen 5 SSDs, such as Patriot with their own SSD offerings as reported in our previous blog post. With the release of these new drives, it’s clear that the SSD market is rapidly evolving, providing consumers with a broad spectrum of options to cater to their specific needs and preferences. We eagerly look forward to what the future holds for SSD technology.

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Teamgroup Makes Waves at Computex 2023 with the T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 SSD and INSANE Heatsinks!

At the epicenter of Computex 2023 was Teamgroup’s spectacular reveal of their new T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 SSD. The Cardea Z5, making its debut with a live benchmark demonstration at the event, left a strong impression on attendees and carved out its own space in the rapidly evolving SSD landscape.

Unveiling the Teamgroup T-Force Cardea Z5 Gen 5 SSD

The Cardea Z5, powered by the popular Phison E26 controller, is a robust Gen 5 SSD that stands toe-to-toe with the competition. It boasts an impressive 14GB/s Sequential Read – hitting the upper limits of what SSDs with this controller are currently able to achieve. However, it is important to note that a top-end host system is required to reach these performance figures.

In terms of capacity, the Cardea Z5 covers a range from 1TB to 4TB, ensuring a variety of options for different user needs. Other specifications, such as maximum IOPS and durability, are still to be confirmed.

Brand	Teamgroup
Model ID	Cardea Z5
PCIe Gen	PCIe Gen 5 x 4
Capacities	1TB – 2TB – 4TB
NAND	3D TLC NAND
Controller	Phison E26
Memory	DDR4
Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W)	14GB/s / 11GB/s
Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W)	TBC
Durability	TBC
Includes Heatsink?	No (Has Heatshield) – Multiple Versions Available Optionally. The Dark Air Flow Series of H/S’ + the Siren GD120S Water Cooled Heatsink kit
Notes	Watercooloing Heatsink Option and many other versions

Emphasizing the Importance of Heatsinks

Heatsinks play an integral role in managing the heat generated by SSDs, especially in high-performance Gen 5 devices that can push significant data throughput. Teamgroup highlighted this importance at Computex by showcasing a wide variety of heatsink options for the Cardea Z5 SSD – their Dark Airflow Series.

The options started with a hefty slated aluminum stack style heatsink that was finned from top to bottom. Then there was a rotating structured heatsink with a copper pipe design to guide air over the heatsink in a targeted manner. Additionally, there was a multi-layer plated heatsink with an integrated fan and a copper pipe.

Innovation in Cooling: Water-Cooled Heatsinks

The star of the show was undoubtedly the water-cooling kit heatsink. This kit features its own dedicated system case fan and dual pipe water connections, offering impressive cooling performance. The importance of efficient cooling cannot be overstated, especially with Gen 5 SSDs, where thermal throttling can limit performance.

This approach by Teamgroup offers a level of flexibility and choice to the consumer. Unlike the ADATA Project Neonstorm, where the water-cooling solution is integrated and not optional, Teamgroup provides a variety of options to meet different user needs and preferences.

When Will the TeamGroup Cardea Z5 Gen5 SSD Be Released and the Price?

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

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Realtek Unveils Exciting WiFi 7 Innovations at Computex 2023

Realtek, a globally renowned semiconductor manufacturer, showcased a host of innovative solutions in the upcoming WiFi 7 standard at the Computex 2023 event in Taipei. The tech giant’s exciting new range includes WiFi 7 Network Interface Card (NIC) solutions, new router motherboards, and a roadmap for their router lineup.

The star of Realtek’s stand was the RTL8922AE Wireless Network Controller, an imminent addition to the new age of WiFi 7 connectivity. This solution supports frequency bands spanning from 2.4GHz to 6GHz, a modulation of 4096QAM, and a channel bandwidth of up to 160MHz. It offers two Spatial Streams (SS) or an alternative configuration of 1 SS + 1 SS. In terms of performance, the RTL8922AE boasts an impressive Maximum PHY Rate of 2800Mbps when connected to the 5GHz and 6GHz bands simultaneously and combining the bandwidth of both bands, heralding Realtek’s commitment to the high-speed future of WiFi 7.

Realtek also introduced the RTL8922AE in two formats, a new M.2 2230 WiFi Adapter and a solder-down 1620 WiFi 7 module. These modules stand to change the WiFi landscape by offering unrivaled speed and seamless integration.

The company made waves with the presentation of two new barebones internal router motherboards. The first, a Tri-Band AX5400 2×2 motherboard, integrates a quad-core ARM A55 CPU with two dedicated packet engines to optimize speed.

It delivers a throughput of over 4.3Gbps, and comes with 2 Hi-SGMII for 2.5GE WAN/LAN and built-in 4GE for more configurations. The second motherboard, an AX3000 with AI QoS, comes with a 3-core AP SoC, a dual-core 1.25GHz MIPS IA CPU and a 800MHz coprocessor. Further details of these motherboards were not presented in the demo, but Realtek revealed an insightful roadmap for their AP Router lineup. The roadmap details the transition from WiFi 6 to WiFi 7 routers, showcasing how the new models will integrate Realtek’s newest chips. The BE6500 (2+2+2), BE9400 (2+2+4), BE3600 (2+2), BE6400 (2+4) and BE7200 (4+4) are all expected to be part of Realtek’s WiFi 7 lineup, launching sometime in Q3 or Q4 of 2024.

The RTL8922AE Wireless Network Controller is designed to be the bedrock for WiFi 7 connectivity. It is designed to support a range of frequency bands from 2.4GHz up to 6GHz, while providing a channel bandwidth of up to 160MHz. This controller offers an impressive Maximum PHY Rate of 2800Mbps when combining 5GHz and 6GHz bands. It’s also equipped with Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and Bluetooth 5.4 features, which further enhance its connectivity capabilities.

For more substantial WiFi solutions, Realtek showcased a variety of chips for use in WiFi routers, each with their unique specifications and applications. Specific router chipsets and their configurations were not shown in the product demo, but were detailed in the roadmap. These chip systems all leverage Realtek’s technology, specifically designed to enhance the user experience by accelerating latency-sensitive applications and enabling adaptive control.

In a dynamic display of technological prowess, the Computex 2023 Realtek stand also featured real-time performance benchmarks that brought their groundbreaking innovations to life. Not just presenting theoretical capabilities, Realtek’s live demonstration allowed attendees to witness firsthand the true potential of their latest WiFi 7 solutions.

This tangible showcase painted a vivid picture of the future of wireless connectivity, showcasing the raw speed and reliability of their latest generation chips in a variety of real-world usage scenarios. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these performance benchmarks, breaking down their implications and shedding light on how Realtek’s cutting-edge technology could revolutionize your connectivity experience.

The roadmap further reveals future WiFi 7 routers, such as the BE6500, BE9400, BE3600, BE6400, and BE7200, each to be powered by Realtek chips designed for specific router configurations. These chips are tailored to meet a variety of consumer and commercial needs, promising to deliver on the high-speed and reliable connectivity that WiFi 7 will bring to the market.

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

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We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

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Gigabyte Aorus 12000 Gen5 SSD: The Race to Stay Ahead in the SSD Revolution

When it comes to blazing the trail for the newest generation of SSDs, Gigabyte has been one of the industry’s foremost pioneers. Their initial launch of the Aorus 10000 Gen5 SSD served as a clarion call to the world, boldly declaring the arrival of Gen5 SSDs in the consumer market. This was a time when most brands had not even announced any plans for a Gen5 drive. However, as the industry proverb goes, “the early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.” In the race to adopt the newest standards, being the first to market often means that later arrivals can learn from your lessons and capitalize on further advancements in technology.

Gigabyte seems to have anticipated this very scenario, leading to the reveal of the Gigabyte Aorus 12000 Gen5 SSD at Computex 2023. The Aorus 12000 elevates its performance, boasting a maximum sequential read speed of 12.4GB/s, and nearly matching that with a sequential write speed of 11.8GB/s. This significant leap from the 10GB/s read and write speeds of the Aorus 10000 clearly showcases Gigabyte’s commitment to staying ahead in the SSD revolution.

What Are the Hardware Specifications of the Gigabyte Aorus 12000 Gen 5 SSD?

The Aorus 12000 also employs the popular Phison E26 controller, much like its predecessor. Yet, it clearly benefits from advancements in NAND layering and possibly memory enhancements at higher capacities (to be confirmed), which seem to be trending characteristics of the newest Gen5 E26 drives. Gigabyte’s progression from the Aorus 10000 to the Aorus 12000 stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to harness the power of technological advancements, and enhancing their products for the benefit of consumers.

This new offering from Gigabyte also includes a heatsink with a heat pipe version, vents, and a nanocarbon coating. This sophisticated cooling solution not only helps manage the heat produced by the high-performance SSD but also adds to the overall aesthetics of the device, a subtle nod to the brand’s attention to detail.

Product Specifications

• Brand: Gigabyte
• Model ID: Aorus 12000
• PCIe Gen: PCIe Gen 5 x 4
• Capacities: 1TB – 2TB
• NAND: 3D TLC NAND
• Controller: Phison E26
• Memory: DDR4
• Reported Max Transfer (Seq R/W): 12.4GB/s / 11.8GB/s
• Reported Max IOPS (4K Random R/W): TBC
• Durability: TBC
• Includes Heatsink? Yes, Heat Pipe Version + vents + Nanocarbon Coating
• Notes: Gigabyte Aorus 10000 Already Available

When Will the Gigabyte 12000 SSD Be Released, and How Much Will it Be?

As we move closer to the anticipated Autumn 2023 release of the Gigabyte Aorus 12000, there’s growing interest in how it will be priced. Considering the advancements it brings over its predecessor, the Aorus 10000, it’s reasonable to expect some increase in price. However, the economics of technology suggest that this increase is likely to be a fraction of the cost of the Aorus 10000, rather than a substantial price jump. Several factors contribute to this. First, as manufacturing processes improve and become more efficient over time, the production cost of new technology often decreases. This means that despite the Aorus 12000’s increased performance and capabilities, it may not be significantly more expensive to produce than the Aorus 10000. Additionally, Gigabyte will want to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving SSD market, and pricing their new SSD too high could make it less appealing to potential buyers, especially with numerous other Gen 5 SSDs anticipated to hit the market around the same time. Therefore, while an official price for the Gigabyte Aorus 12000 has not yet been announced, it would be reasonable to anticipate that it will be priced competitively – only a fraction higher than the Aorus 10000, despite the superior performance and features it offers. Keep an eye on this space as we continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

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?

We want to keep the free advice on NASCompares FREE for as long as we can. Since this service started back in Jan '18, We have helped hundreds of users every month solve their storage woes, but we can only continue to do this with your support. So please do choose to buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK on the articles when buying to provide advert revenue support or to donate/support the site below. 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  

Support What We Do

    Terms and Conditions Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.  

Upgrading from 1GbE to 10GbE – Should You Do It?

Whether you are a completely new NAS buyer or someone that has owned their own private server for a number of years, the idea of upgrading your local network from the rather standard gigabit Ethernet up to 10-gigabit Ethernet has always floated around in the background of the more enthusiastic server owner. Notwithstanding the obvious advantages in bandwidth that are going to be made available by this upgrade, there is always going to be the question of whether it is worth the time or money for your own personal setup to take this rather large step. The affordability of 10-gigabit Ethernet has improved wildly in the last few years, alongside innovations in just how straightforward the upgrade towards 10G can be. Still, 10-gigabit Ethernet is not for everyone, and in this article, I want to give you five reasons why you should consider upgrading your network to 10G and five reasons why you might not need to bother. Let’s begin.

The TL;DR: Upgrading from 1GbE to 10GbE networking offers faster data transfer speeds, reduced network congestion, improved work efficiency, support for high-performance applications, and future-proofing. However, it comes with higher costs, limited device support, complex setup and configuration, and increased power consumption. Consider the specific needs and budget of your home or office environment before deciding to upgrade.

Advantages of Upgrading from 1GbE to 10GbE Networking:

• Massive improvements in local bandwidth: Upgrading to 10GbE provides ten times the potential bandwidth, allowing for faster data exchange and improved communication between connected devices.
• Affordability of 10GbE in 2023: The cost of 10GbE hardware has significantly dropped, making it more accessible to users. Affordable network controllers, PCIe upgrades, and thunderbolt-to-10G adapters are widely available.
• Affordable and sustainable upgradability from 1Gb networks: Upgrading to 10GbE doesn’t necessarily require replacing all existing hardware. Legacy devices can still communicate with a 10GbE network using RJ45 interfaces. Granular upgrades are possible with USB network adapters, combo switches, and utilizing existing network cabling.
• Network innovations in SMB multi-channel and greater than gigabit internet connectivity: SMB multi-channel support allows users to aggregate network ports’ bandwidth, resulting in increased network connections. It can be used on both 10GbE and lower bandwidth ports, providing more flexibility and potential bandwidth advantages.

Disadvantages of Upgrading from 1GbE to 10GbE Networking:

• Rise of 2.5GbE at 1Gb pricing: Many client devices now come with 2.5GbE ports, offering a significant bandwidth increase compared to traditional gigabit Ethernet. This may make 10GbE less necessary for some users.
• Not all devices are easily upgradable: Not all devices support 10GbE hardware or have the required drivers. Thunderbolt ports, PCIe network cards, and compatible drivers are essential considerations before upgrading.
• 10GbE doesn’t guarantee 10Gb speeds out of the gate: Achievable bandwidth and actual transfer speeds are different. Factors like storage media, CPU, and memory also affect overall device performance. Multiple drives or SSDs may be required to fully saturate a 10GbE connection.
• 10Gb managed switches remain relatively expensive: Managed switches offer customization options and enhanced security but come at a higher price point compared to unmanaged switches.
• 10Gb bandwidth doesn’t guarantee consistent speeds for all file exchanges: The performance of file transfers over a 10GbE network can vary depending on file protocols, network adapter configurations, and the capabilities of the NAS system. Complex and dense data transfers may require more capable 10GbE devices.

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What are the Positives of Upgrading your 1GbE Network to 10GbE?

Although it may seem obvious, the full range of advantages that upgrading towards 10GbE can provide is actually pretty broad (not just bandwidth based either). Here are the top 4 reasons:

Massive improvements in local bandwidth

Let’s get the most obvious advantage out of the way early on. Upgrading to 10G means that your local area network has ten times the potential bandwidth to play with and exchange data between connected devices than previously. Obviously, it will depend on the number of devices in your network and how they are communicating, e.g., the complexity of your network switch and/or the exchange of data. But still, nonetheless, in the years that 10-gigabit Ethernet has existed, this will always be the most motivating factor. However, it doesn’t stop there, and it’s also worth highlighting that even now, via unmanaged 10-gigabit Ethernet switches or other very affordable network upgrade devices, the extent of throughput that can be achieved is very impressive. Then, if you factor in a mixed client hardware environment communicating with a singular 10-gigabit Ethernet NIC, this ensures that each user, even if they are not utilizing 10G, is able to fully saturate their respective connections on the network environment between them and their targeted server locally. 10 GbE only provides you with enhanced bandwidth, and you will still need to rely on sufficiently high-performance media to saturate that connection, but the benefits in local bandwidth alone are often more than enough for most users to take the plunge.

The affordability of 10G in 2023

That’s right, although one could argue that year on year, the price point for most hardware will inevitably drop, the affordability of 10 GbE has really hit an absolute sweet spot in 2023. Innovations such as affordable 10-gigabit network controllers have allowed PCIe upgrades to be purchased in the double-digit dollar figures, as well as Thunderbolt to 10G upgrades becoming widely available and increasingly affordable. Then there is the growth in the ability of unmanaged and managed switches in recent years that have allowed high-performance network switches in 10G to arrive at only a few times the cost of 1G switches comparatively. Then there are adapters that allow users to mix and match between copper and fiber-based network connectivity, which is no longer any kind of hurdle.

These are also available at an affordable price. Finally, there is simply the cost of 10GbE-ready NAS or upgradable houses now being considered standard, with most £500+ NAS devices arriving out of the gate with either the option to upgrade to 10G down the line or arriving with it right out of the gate. Even the likes of Windows and Apple have started rolling out a number of their gamer and prosumer hardware to feature 10-gigabit Ethernet by default. Thanks to this growing affordability of 10G, upgrading to a 10G network is affordable for most and widely supported/upgradable on a lot of consumer tech.

Affordable and sustainable upgradability from 1G networks becoming increasingly common

Another great benefit for users looking to upgrade to 10-gigabit Ethernet from an existing 1-gigabit Ethernet network over copper is just how much of the legacy hardware you can still reuse. If you are already located in a home or office that has network cabling trunked or already built into wall cavities, then chances are this is copper-based and unless you are covering particularly large distances, is also suitable for 10G setups (10GBASE-T). Equally, unless you are looking at a purely fiber-based 10G upgrade, all of your existing one-gigabit connected devices will still be able to communicate with the new 10G network over RJ45 network interfaces that are found on pretty much every appliance you can buy. Then there is the ease of upgrading. Some devices have become considerably more affordable and low-impact thanks to USB network adapters, which now support 2.5G and 5G for as little as 20 to 40 dollars. Lastly, for those that do not want to fully integrate 10-gigabit Ethernet but simply want to partially integrate it into their network, the popularity of affordable combo switches that feature a large number of 1G ports combined with one or two 10G ports for a NAS or greater than gigabit internet connection is increasing. There are even combo switches from brands such as QNAP that combine both fiber and copper-based 10G ports in a single switch while also supplying a larger number of 1G or 2.5G ports. Upgrading to 10G can often be done very granularly or even in a small area of your overall network while still reusing the bulk of your existing hardware in your office environment.

Network Innovations in SMB multi-channel and greater than gigabit internet connectivity

One of the more popular network software appliances that is in hot discussion on most network tech sites is the subject of SMB multi-channel support. Previously, if you had multiple network ports and you wanted to combine their overall bandwidth to take advantage of a single larger network connection, your main two options were either link aggregation or load balancing. Link aggregation, also known as port trunking, requires a smart managed switch to bind multiple ports together that are then connected to a single network appliance, which also aggregates them. This does work and has been used for many years. However, it is messy, not especially robust, and often falls short in comparison to a single larger bandwidth connection like 10G. Load balancing is similar but, instead of creating a single network tunnel, creates a system of turn-based bandwidth usage across two or more network ports. Once again, it can be messy and not quite as robust as a 10G port. Now, SMB multi-channel takes care of many of the messy things in those previous two methods, allowing you to simply tell the NAS and your host system that the network ports you are connecting with are a single bonded network connection. SMB multi-channel then, on the client hardware side, simply does the network division on its own and allows you to greatly aggregate the network connections without the need for an intelligent switch in the middle. You can even perform SMB multi-channel with an unmanaged switch. So what has this got to do with 10-gigabit Ethernet? Well, not only can SMB multi-channel also be used on multiple 10G ports if you are lucky enough to have a system that arrives with more than one, but it also allows you to aggregate existing 1G or 2.5G network ports that your system may already have by default. This means that when upgrading your 10G network, there is the potential to bind 10G ports with existing lower bandwidth ports and gain even further bandwidth advantages. This also allows non-10G devices to enjoy a larger potential bandwidth when connected via the network to a 10G NAS if they are connected via multiple ports in SMB multi-channel. There is, of course, the argument that SMB multi-channel starts to undermine the need for 10-gigabit Ethernet at all, but that’s a conversation for a different kind of setup.

What are the Negatives of Upgrading your 1GbE Network to 10GbE?

There is no denying that upgrading to 10GbE is not going to be for everyone and for every person that thinks it is going to solve a bunch of bandwidth issues they have, there is going to be another person that find that it’s more hassle than it’s worth in the long run! Here are the disadvantages of upgrading to 10G that might make you sit on the fence a while longer!

The rise of 2.5G at 1G pricing

10-gigabit Ethernet is not the only thing that has seen a price drop in recent years. At the other end of the network spectrum, we have found that many client hardware devices that would have formerly arrived with traditional gigabit Ethernet network ports have started arriving with 2.5-gigabit Ethernet instead at no additional cost. Now, although 2.5G is only two and a half times wider in bandwidth than traditional gigabit Ethernet, this might be enough for many low to middle-range client hardware devices and may even negate the need for some users to consider 10-gigabit Ethernet in the near future. We are also seeing occasional devices roll out on the market with 5-gigabit Ethernet network ports and a small price increase that is considerably lower than that of 10G. These devices are rarer but do exist. 2.5G has started to arrive on more common day-to-day devices, not just laptops and computers. As many ISP routers are starting to embrace Wi-Fi 6, we are also seeing these devices arrive with 2.5G network ports. So if you are not convinced that you are going to utilize 10-gigabit Ethernet for the next few years, it’s actually surprisingly cheap and, in some cases, next to free to just move over to 2.5G, depending on the devices in your network environment.

Not all devices are ready to be upgraded so easily

Earlier, I highlighted the increase in 10G peripherals, such as Thunderbolt to 10G adapters from brands such as Sonnet and QNAP. These, along with increasingly affordable 10G network upgrade cards over PCIe that add one to two 10G ports to your system, do make the upgrade surprisingly easy for certain machines. However, it is crucial to check whether many of the devices in your existing network environment actually support 10G upgrades. Currently, there is no such thing as a USB to 10G network adapter. If you do not have a Thunderbolt port and no means to upgrade a PCIe network card into the system, there is currently no way for your system to enjoy 10-gigabit Ethernet. Equally, 10-gigabit Ethernet requires slightly more sophisticated network drivers on your host system than the usual network drivers associated with standard gigabit Ethernet. So in some cases, and in more closed systems, you may be able to add a Thunderbolt hardware card or adapter, but your system software does not have a relevant driver and may well be overly reliant on custom drivers developed on GitHub and other sites where modified drivers are engineered without the usual long-term support and maintenance associated with paid premium software updates. Check whether your devices actually support 10-gigabit Ethernet hardware or 10-gigabit Ethernet drivers before considering upgrading your network to 10G; otherwise, you may find yourself spending considerably more money than you anticipated.

10G networking does not necessarily guarantee 10G speeds out of the gate

Earlier on, I did highlight that one of the earliest and obvious benefits of 10-gigabit Ethernet is the increase in your network bandwidth. To be a little more precise, a 10G network connection allows a little over 1000 megabytes per second of transfer speed to be achieved, which is 10 times what you find in traditional gigabit Ethernet. However, many users overlook the fact that achievable bandwidth and actual transfer speeds are not the same thing. Think of bandwidth as the pipe and speed as the water running through the pipe. When it comes to transfer speeds, aside from network connectivity, one of the other significant factors that defines the external performance of your devices is the storage media that they are utilizing. The power of a device, such as its CPU or memory, certainly plays its part, but in order for a 10G NAS to fully saturate a 10G connection, you are going to need several hard drives or a handful of SSDs to come even close. More modern SSDs, such as M.2 NVMe, have made achieving fully saturated 10G speeds considerably easier. However, these are not cheap SSDs, and often a NAS may not support NVMe drives as storage pools or perhaps only supports SATA media to begin with. Then there is whether a system with multiple drives still has the correct RAID configuration to allow multiple drives to be read and written simultaneously to achieve enhanced performance towards 10G externally. Overall, just adding a 10G network connection does not necessarily mean you are going to get 10G speeds unless your NAS has sufficient storage media and/or the devices in your network are primed to handle that kind of data transmission.

10G managed switches continue to keep prices high

Although 10G switches are more affordable than they have ever been, it is worth clarifying that the more affordable switches you find will often be unmanaged. These are switches that do not have any means of manual customization and arrive with preset protocols in terms of security and data packet handling. However, if you are looking for more cutting-edge security network switches or want options to better customize a network in terms of priority and access to certain devices over others, you are going to need to look at managed switches. Unfortunately, managed switches, although cheaper than they have been in the past, have not seen the same reduction in price point as unmanaged switches. A big part of this is due to brands issuing regular firmware updates to maintain system security and ensure user network protection is maintained long term. So keep in mind that you may have seen very affordable 10G network-wide upgrades that you can potentially integrate into your home or business environment, but many of these are built around an unmanaged and inflexible setup unless you spend a decent chunk more money.

10G bandwidth does not guarantee 10G speeds for different kinds of file exchanges and scales

Many users might be considering upgrading to 10-gigabit Ethernet as they hope it will allow certain file processes that are generally conducted locally to be done remotely over the network on a connected server over 10G, with the convenience of NAS server software to manage backups and retention. This is indeed possible, and many photo and video editors have started migrating away from local editing towards editing over 10G and higher network speeds in order to manage multiple huge project files all at once that could not possibly all reside on their local C drive. However, not all files are created equally, and depending on the complexity, high frequency, or sheer size of the files that you are editing, you may not see the same performance levels over a 10G network as you do locally. A big reason for this has to do with file protocols and how network adapters are configured to handle data packets. Many 10G upgrades do provide you with the options to customize a lot of the settings on your network adapter. However, crucially, not all do, and many very affordable 10G NAS systems on the market arrive with quite weak and comparatively rudimentary processors (more typically ARM) that, although they can generally handle file transfers, will struggle with denser data scales. Large 4K video media, high-frequency but low individual file-size databases, and system image-based backups are just a few examples of particularly dense and arguably complex data transfers that, without more capable 10G devices working alongside your host system, will certainly cause headaches along the way. So just be aware that although 10G hardware has become more affordable in recent years, don’t be fooled into thinking that a cheap 10G NAS can be just as speedy as a similar-looking system three times more expensive. Chances are, the more expensive system features a better CPU or a more capable network adapter right out of the gate.

In summary, upgrading to 10GbE offers significant advantages in terms of bandwidth and affordability. However, considerations such as device compatibility, achievable speeds, and the need for customization should be carefully evaluated before deciding to make the upgrade.

Upgrading to a 10Gbe Network – Recommended Products in 2021

So now we have discussed at length a number of the advantages and disadvantages to upgrading to a 10Gbe network environment. As mentioned, there are many new 10Gbe pieces of hardware available as 2021 continues, making the ease of choosing the right network components evermore confusing. Below I have detailed my recommended 10Gbe switch, NAS, Router, Plug-n-play laptop upgrade and Desktop PCIe upgrades to ensure that you are ready to make the jump to 10Gbe networking.

Recommended 10Gbe Switches

Likely the most important part of the 10Gbe network upgrade, the switch is what manages traffic between your client devices.

Budget Unmanaged 10Gbe Switch	Budget Managed 10Gbe Switch	Best Budget Dedicated 10G
QNAP QSW-308S $139	QNAP QSW-M408-4C $329	TRENDnet 8x 10G TEG-7080ES $529

Recommended 10Gbe Laptop Upgrades

If your network is populated with more compact and portable devices, then you can still use a range of Thunderbolt connected devices to interact with a 10Gbe network. Here are the ones I recommend:

 

Sonnet Solo 10G Adapter	QNAP QNA-T310G1S Adapter	ATTO TLN3-3102 Thunderlink 2x10G Adapter
Thunderbolt3-to-10G Copper $209	Thunderbolt3-to-SFP+ Fibre $179	2x Thunderbolt3-to-2x SFP+ Fibre $999

Recommended 10Gbe Desktop PC Upgrades

If you are using a desktop PC/Mac/Linux system, then you are able to consider PCIe 10Gbe upgrades. Although these are more expensive than the plug n play alternatives, they do allow more connections per card. Here are the 10Gbe PCIe cards I recommend:

 

1 Port 10Gbe PCIe Card	2 Port 10Gbe PCIe Card	Fully Featured 10Gbe PCIe Card
TRENDnet 10Gbe TEG-10GECTX $99	QNAP QXG-10G2T-107 2x 10G $199	QNAP 10Gbe and 2x NVMe QM2-2P10G1T $279

Recommended 10Gbe Routers

Once again, very much an ‘optional extra’, upgrading the router/modem in your network towards 10Gbe will only really be beneficial if your internet service is greater than 1Gbps. Never the less, there are some great 10Gbe, 5Gbe and 10Gbe routers out there, some of which even include WiFi 6 too. Here are the best 10Gbe routers right now in 2021:

 

Best Gamer 10Gbe Router	Best Prosumer 10Gbe Router	Best Business 10Gbe Router
ASUS AX11000 $389	ASUS AX6000 10G $410	QNAP QHora-301W 10G & WiFi 6 $329

 

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Synology BeeDrive Review – Bit Different?

Synology has been one of the biggest names in the world of storage for both home and business users for well over 20 years, and although they have been predominantly associated with network-attached storage, they have occasionally dabbled in alternative storage mediums. In just the last 5 to 6 years, we have seen them explore the world of routers, hard drives, SSDs, and surveillance cameras, and now they have rolled out a new external SSD backup device- the Synology BeeDrive. Designed for and targeted at no-nonsense, beginner-level local backups, the BeeDrive stands in stark contrast to the majority of Synology solutions in their portfolio. They’re attempting to find a middle ground between the convenient and easy backup processes found in the likes of Google Drive and Dropbox, alongside the ease of Apple Airdrop file transfers, while avoiding the complexity of network-attached storage. It’s a big undertaking and one that more serious storage veterans may scorn as overly simplistic at best, or limiting at worst. But what about the target audience of comparatively inexperienced storage users? How will they find the Synology BeeDrive? Let’s review this comparatively new backup system and help you decide if it deserves your data.

Synology BeeDrive Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology BeeDrive is a well-made product that aligns with Synology’s style. Its software is excellent, the build quality is top-notch, and its operation is incredibly user-friendly. Despite its robust software capabilities, including support of multiple clients and versions, customization of file synchronization and backups, and the Synology BeeDrop functionality, the BeeDrive might appear under-featured when compared to Synology’s own NAS servers. However, the need for a connected PC client for backup and synchronization applications, although crucial for the BeeDrop feature, might make long-term operations of the drive less smooth for some. Despite the clear differentiation in target audiences for these products, Synology’s reputation in the NAS world makes comparison inevitable, even for entry-level users. The BeeDrive might seem simplistic at launch, but perhaps long-term integration with Synology’s ecosystem will alter this perception. If you’re looking for simple, uncomplicated local backups between your client hardware, the BeeDrive could be a suitable, low-impact alternative to a NAS. For everyone else, a Synology Value Series box with a couple of drives might be a more evolved storage solution.

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

Synology BeeDrive Review – Retail Packaging

The packaging for the Synology BeeDrive is definitely aimed more at off-the-shelf purchases than exclusively e-retail. Arriving in a fantastic compact box, the BeeDrive is a modest and small-footprint storage device that weighs less and is smaller than the majority of external hard drives we have reviewed so far.

The box contains a fairly standard cardboard framework and the drive includes the expected accessories that you would find with most external drives. There’s the Synology BeeDrive itself, available at launch in one-terabyte and two-terabyte capacities, an external USB C to USB C cable, a USB C to A adapter, and a first-time setup manual. All software that is included with the Synology BeeDrive, which is arguably the main selling point of this drive, can be found online and is downloadable via multiple 3D barcodes and Synology’s own website.

As you would expect, the quality of all of the components included is pretty high and although they aren’t really anything special, they are all branded appropriately much like any Synology product. Aside from the USB cable being a little short, I can’t really fault the accessories. The USB type A adapter clicks in neatly and firmly too.

Given the price tag that the Synology BeeDrive arrives at, with the 1TB at approximately $139 and the 2TB at $199, I would certainly expect a high production quality, and this does not disappoint. However, it also does not blow the mind.

Synology BeeDrive Review – Design

The first thing that you notice about the Synology BeeDrive external SSD is that it is fantastically small and light. Synology has continued to leverage the improved storage capacity per cell and the result is that this drive is clearly using a very small form M.2 NVMe SSD drive inside. At the time of writing, I was unable to identify the SSD that is being used inside the Synology BeeDrive, but I will dismantle the drive later and update this review and the YouTube video accordingly once identified. Indeed, identifying the SSD inside the Synology BeeDrive was challenging, even utilizing tools such as Crystal Disk Mark.

The only physical connection on the Synology BeeDrive is a USB type C connector at the base of the device which serves as both the data transfer and power supply for this drive. It is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface which means that it can achieve speeds of 1,000 megabytes per second, thanks to the internal NVMe inside. Likely, this SSD could achieve higher speeds outside of this external enclosure, but that would require utilization of more modern USB Gen2x2 connectivity, USB 4, or Thunderbolt interface, which would increase the base price and limit the number of users able to take advantage of these higher performing interfaces.

The design of the Synology BeeDrive is quite slick and tremendously understated. But then again, the market is not exactly short of modest and slickly designed external SSD drives in 2023. So what exactly sets the Synology BeeDrive apart from other USB drives on the market, which are perhaps a little bit more affordable?

What Makes the Synology BeeDrive Any Different from a Normal External SSD?

When it was first revealed that Synology was rolling out external SSDs into their portfolio, the big question for many was what exactly they were bringing to this type of storage that didn’t already exist from numerous external USB SSDs in the market from the likes of Seagate, WD, SanDisk, and Sabrent. Right now, you can pick up a 1TB external hard drive for about $40, a 5 gigabit external SSD for about $80, and a 10 gigabit external USB SSD for about $99. With the Synology 1TB BeeDrive SSD arriving at a suggested $130, what exactly is Synology doing differently from what these other drives offer?

Much like the bulk of Synology products, the real appeal of the Synology BeeDrive lies in the software. Despite Synology NAS hard drives having comparatively lower hardware specifications in the market, it’s the DSM software that sets them apart from others and what carries the premium price tag for the majority of Synology products. The same is very much true of the Synology BeeDrive, thanks to the inclusion of Synology-designed backup, sync, and live drop functionality being presented in an incredibly user-friendly and near-seamlessly integrated fashion.

Click to view slideshow.

Upon connecting the Synology BeeDrive to your local PC and installing the software, an array of backup, synchronization, and live file drop services become available across multiple devices. It enables synchronization and backup of files from up to five different devices to the BeeDrive. The software provides several customization options to fine-tune your backups. These include maintaining up to five versions of a given backup file, allowing reversion to older versions if needed, and file format and size policies to ensure non-essential bulky files are excluded while crucial files and folders are backed up. The software also supports one or two-way synchronization, allowing you to decide whether files in multiple locations are mirrored or if one device is designated as the primary creation point and the other as the backup.

Click to view slideshow.

“BeeDrop” is another impressive feature that allows quick transfer of files from your connected iOS or Android mobile device to your desktop. This function, reminiscent of Apple AirDrop, facilitates seamless and wireless transfer between all your devices. While other third-party applications or chat or synchronization platforms offer similar services, these generally require you to utilize third-party storage and cloud providers, raising questions about the security of your data during and after the file exchange.

Click to view slideshow.

The BeeDrive software for mobile services is available on both Android and iOS. However, desktop client support is currently limited to Windows systems, with plans for Mac OS support expected later. While the BeeDrive provides a range of impressive features, one significant limitation is that it needs to be connected via USB to a PC client device when in operation. Unlike Wi-Fi supported external drives that run on battery power, such as the WD wireless passport drive from 2018, the Synology BeeDrive can only operate when connected to a computer. The computer then communicates with connected clients via its network adapter/LAN.

Despite this, there are some advantages to the BeeDrive system. For example, for those who frequently work off-site (such as at photo shoots, video production on location, creating reports at a client’s office, or while traveling), the BeeDrive provides an automated means to back up data upon return to your office. By simply connecting the BeeDrive to your main machine, all backups and synchronization will occur automatically. Furthermore, the BeeDrive supports up to five PC client devices. Users who frequently move between different Windows machines may find the BeeDrive useful not only for carrying data between these different client machines but also for live synchronization upon connection with each of them. This creates a portable master drive that constantly syncs with multiple systems in a nearly seamless manner. Cross-platform support already exists with the Synology BeeDrive having both iOS and Android support. This is further enhanced with support for converting HEIC to JPEG inside the BeeDrive and its software, allowing seamless image transfer and viewing between these different client profiles.

However, it must be acknowledged that the BeeDrive is best suited to those who prefer hardware to handle all the data management with minimal input by the end user. While utilizing a network attached storage device does have a steeper learning curve and requires your NAS system to either be on an intelligent schedule or on 24/7, NAS systems still offer significantly more capability than this type of entry-level backup solution. The BeeDrive should not be seen as a replacement for owning your own private NAS server. The Synology BeeDrive has only recently been launched, and Synology will likely improve its integration into their ecosystem. Therefore, it might seem premature to evaluate this product in its initial state, when it’s very likely that we’ll see this device’s capabilities expand, particularly in terms of support for the Mac platform and integration with the Synology NAS DSM platform. If the Synology BeeDrive could be connected to a Synology system with the proprietary Synology B application, it could offer a less resource-intensive way to backup and synchronize files and folders on your client devices than existing solutions like Synology Drive or Hyper Backup.

It might also prove beneficial to allow connected client devices to have sync and backup privileges with the Synology BeeDrive, which would be managed and safeguarded by the technology NAS, thus ensuring these client devices do not have access to the larger long-term storage array. Although the BeeDrive is a well-made device with a promising software package, it may not appeal to established Synology NAS users and appears to be targeting more entry-level, hassle-free storage users.

It’s worth noting that the BeeDrive is not Synology’s first venture into wireless storage backups. About a decade ago, they introduced the Synology DS213 Air, a traditional 2x NAS device with DSM and RJ45 connectivity, and a built-in wireless adapter. Though Synology never followed up on this product, one could argue that the BeeDrive is aimed at the same user base, albeit its requirement for a connected PC client might dilute this argument.

Synology BeeDrive Review – Review Conclusion

The Synology BeeDrive is a well-made product that aligns with Synology’s style. Its software is excellent, the build quality is top-notch, and its operation is incredibly user-friendly. Despite its robust software capabilities, including support of multiple clients and versions, customization of file synchronization and backups, and the Synology BeeDrop functionality, the BeeDrive might appear under-featured when compared to Synology’s own NAS servers. However, the need for a connected PC client for backup and synchronization applications, although crucial for the BeeDrop feature, might make long-term operations of the drive less smooth for some. Despite the clear differentiation in target audiences for these products, Synology’s reputation in the NAS world makes comparison inevitable, even for entry-level users. The BeeDrive might seem simplistic at launch, but perhaps long-term integration with Synology’s ecosystem will alter this perception. If you’re looking for simple, uncomplicated local backups between your client hardware, the BeeDrive could be a suitable, low-impact alternative to a NAS. For everyone else, a Synology Value Series box with a couple of drives might be a more evolved storage solution.

WDDA Western Digital Warning- are your NAS drives doomed? Should you replace your drives?

In recent months, Synology NAS users have been receiving a warning known as WDDA (Western Digital Device Analytics) on their WD drives after approximately three years of use. This warning message advises users to replace their drives as they have reached their expected lifetime. However, some users have performed SMART tests on their drives, and the results came back normal. This has led to confusion and uncertainty among users, prompting the question of whether it is necessary to replace the drives or if the warning can be ignored. In this article, we will explore the meaning of WDDA, its warning levels in DSM 7, how to interpret and respond to each situation, which drives are affected, and the role of WD and Synology in handling this issue. We will also discuss the comparison with Seagate Health Management and how QNAP approaches similar warnings differently. Additionally, we will address whether it is advisable to disable the WDDA feature and provide instructions on how to do so if desired.

Update (07:17 GMT  13/6/23)

Synology has been in touch regarding this video and was keen to make the following statement regarding WDDA Drive support and use on their DSM software platform.

“We disagree with the statement that is it not possible to disable usage of WDDA services on supported WD Red hard drives. We would like to confirm the following:

• You can enable/disable WDDA from Storage Manager at any time from the UI. This will remove any warnings (assuming the drive is healthy otherwise).
• Storage Manager has always allowed administrators to “suppress” non-severe drive warnings. This option is also available for this particular warning.

Additionally, regarding the support of WD Red Drives with WDDA on-board services, in DSM:

• WDDA was only introduced into DSM 7.0 (July 2021).
• WDDA is not enabled by default.
• Synology has already deprecated WDDA, and it is not included on any -22 series or newer system (e.g. DS1522+)

WDDA, and its triggers and warnings, are not developed or controllable by Synology. So while DSM can ignore warnings thrown by WDDA, this defeats the purpose of the health monitoring tool that the administrator knowingly enabled. “ – An Official Synology Source, 9th June 2023

Back to the Original Article:

What’s happening? When did this all start?

In recent times, an interesting phenomenon has caught the attention of users in various online forums. People have begun questioning why DSM 7, the operating system used in Synology NAS devices, displays warnings on drives that are merely three years old. This puzzling situation has left many scratching their heads since SMART checks, a commonly used diagnostic tool for assessing drive health, indicate that these drives are functioning perfectly fine. The source of this seemingly contradictory warning lies in WDDA (Western Digital Device Analytics). It has become apparent that WDDA plays a significant role in triggering the warnings, even when SMART checks report no issues. The discrepancy between SMART test results and the persistent warning has sparked confusion and prompted users to seek answers and solutions to this perplexing dilemma.

WDDA: WARNING:

The drive has accumulated a large number of power on hours through the entire life of the drive.

Please consider to replace the drive soon.

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What is WD’s WDDA Service? 

WDDA, which stands for Western Digital Device Analytics, is a feature and framework developed by Western Digital, a prominent manufacturer of hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). WDDA aims to provide valuable insights into the health, performance, and overall condition of WD drives. It encompasses various metrics and parameters derived from HDD specifications, including load/unload cycles, MTBF (mean time between failures), TBW (terabytes written per year), and power-on hours per year. By analyzing these factors, WDDA helps to assess the drive’s usage patterns, potential wear and tear, and expected lifespan. It provides a holistic view of the drive’s health, allowing users to make informed decisions regarding maintenance, replacement, or further diagnostics. With WDDA, Western Digital aims to empower users with proactive drive management capabilities and ensure the optimal performance and reliability of their WD drives.

Reading HDD spec sheets can be daunting if you’re not familiar with the terminology and metrics used. However, understanding key specifications can provide valuable insights into the performance and longevity of a hard disk drive (HDD). One important metric is MTBF (mean time between failures), which indicates the average expected time between drive failures. A higher MTBF generally implies greater reliability. Unload cycles refer to the number of times the read/write heads are parked and unparked, which can affect the mechanical wear of the drive. Lower unload cycle values are generally desirable as they indicate reduced stress on the drive mechanism. Power-on hours per year provides an estimate of how long the drive has been operational. It gives an indication of the usage intensity and can be useful in assessing the wear and tear on the drive. Workload per year refers to the amount of data written to the drive within a specific period. This metric is particularly important for drives subjected to heavy workloads, such as in NAS or server environments. When evaluating an HDD, it’s crucial to consider these specifications in relation to your specific use case. For example, a drive with a high MTBF, low unload cycles, and a workload rating suitable for your intended usage will likely offer better longevity and performance. It’s also important to note that different manufacturers may use slightly different terminologies or methods of calculating these metrics, so it’s advisable to consult the official documentation or reach out to the manufacturer for clarification if needed. By familiarizing yourself with these metrics and understanding their significance, you can make more informed decisions when selecting and managing HDDs for your storage needs.

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What exactly the warning says?  It is a Warning not ERROR. Is it similar to Synology ONLY drive warning?

When it comes to the warning message displayed in DSM (DiskStation Manager), it’s important to note that it is a “Warning” and not an “Error.” This distinction implies that the situation is not critical or immediate, but it does warrant attention and consideration. The warning message typically indicates that the drive has accumulated a significant number of power-on hours throughout its lifespan, suggesting potential wear and usage. The purpose of the warning is to inform users that based on Western Digital’s device analytics (WDDA), it may be prudent to consider replacing the drive soon.

It’s worth noting that this warning is not exclusive to Synology drives. While Synology does have its own drive compatibility list and may provide warnings specific to incompatible or uncertified drives, the WDDA warning is separate. The WDDA warning is a result of Western Digital’s analytics system and is applicable to WD drives across different NAS platforms, not limited to Synology. Therefore, it’s essential to differentiate between the warnings specific to Synology drives and the broader WDDA warning that applies to WD drives universally. Understanding the nature of the warning and its context can help users assess the health and reliability of their drives, determine the appropriate course of action, and decide whether replacing the drive is necessary or if further diagnostic tests are required.

 

What does Warning mean in DSM ? What action is expected? Is it the same as non-Synology HDD warning?

What to do if I get this warning? What can I do if a drive is in “Warning,” “Critical,” or other abnormal statuses? What other Statuses are there in DSM?

In DSM (DiskStation Manager), the “Warning” status indicates that the system has detected certain issues or an increase in bad sectors on the drive. While the drive may still be functioning adequately, it is essential to monitor its health and the count of bad sectors. The warning serves as an alert to potential problems and prompts users to take action to ensure data integrity and prevent potential drive failure. If you receive a warning status for a drive, it is recommended to closely monitor the drive’s performance and conduct further diagnostics. This can include running SMART tests, examining the drive’s S.M.A.R.T. attributes, and checking for any signs of deteriorating performance or unusual behavior. In some cases, it may be necessary to back up important data from the drive as a precautionary measure. In addition to the “Warning” status, DSM includes other statuses to indicate drive health and conditions. These statuses include:

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What drives are affected? Its not just NAS drives  / What drives support WDDA

The impact of WDDA is not limited to just NAS drives; it extends to various hard disk drive (HDD) models. Some of the drives affected by WDDA and its associated warnings include the Red Pro 12TB (WD121KFBX – 68EF5N0), Red Plus 12TB (formerly known as Red) (WD120EFAX – 68UNTN0), and Purple 8TB (WD82PURZ – 85TEUY0). These drives have been identified as triggering the WDDA warning in Synology NAS devices running DSM 7. For instance, users have reported receiving WDDA warnings on their Synology DS218 (with DSM 7.1.1-42962 Update 4) when using the WD60EFAX-68SHWN0 drive. Additionally, users on forums have mentioned that WDDA works with their DS218+ model and their 12TB WD Red drives (specifically the WD120EFAX model) from 2019. Another user reported receiving notifications on their DiskStation 416Play regarding two of their 6TB WD Red NAS drives in the SHR-array.

It’s important to note that WDDA is specific to Western Digital drives, and not all WD drives are affected. The exact list of drives supporting WDDA may vary, so it’s recommended to refer to official documentation or contact Western Digital for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that other drive manufacturers, such as Seagate, have their own drive health management systems, which may operate differently from WDDA. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the specific drive models and their associated features when evaluating drive health and compatibility with different NAS systems.

Red Pro 12 TB   WD121KFBX – 68EF5N0

Red Plus (formerly known as Red)   12 TB   WD120EFAX – 68UNTN0

Purple  8 TB    WD82PURZ – 85TEUY0

https://kb.synology.com/en-my/DSM/tutorial/Which_Synology_NAS_supports_WDDA

DS218 DSM 7.1.1-42962 Update 4  –  WD60EFAX-68SHWN0

WDDA works in my DS218+ with my 12TB WD Red drives from 2019 (WD120EFAX)…

DiskStation 416Play sent notifications that two of its 6TB WD Red NAS drives (SHR-array)

https://www.reddit.com/r/synology/comments/nhphn0/wdda_and_dsm7/

Seagate and Ironwolf Health Management:

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Who is to Blame? WD or Synology?

How is Synology handling this WDDA Lifespan warning?

When it comes to the issue of WDDA warnings and the responsibility for addressing them, it is important to understand the roles of both Western Digital (WD) and Synology. WD is the manufacturer of the hard disk drives (HDDs) and is responsible for implementing the WDDA feature that generates the warnings based on drive analytics. Synology, on the other hand, is the provider of the NAS (Network-Attached Storage) systems that utilize these drives and integrate the WDDA functionality into their DSM software. In terms of handling the issue, Synology typically advises users to contact WD for further assistance. This approach is understandable as WD is the manufacturer and has a deeper understanding of their drives and the WDDA feature. WD may request users to run SMART tests to assess the drive’s health, and if the drive passes the test, it can create a discrepancy between the WDDA warning and the drive’s actual condition.

However, some users have expressed frustration with Synology’s response, as they believe that Synology should take more responsibility in handling the issue. Users argue that while WD provides the information through WDDA, it is up to Synology’s DSM software to determine how to act on this information. The inability to disable the WDDA warning in DSM 7, even if the drive passes SMART tests, has raised concerns among users who feel that the warning may cause unnecessary alarm or prompt premature drive replacements. It is important to note that both WD and Synology continuously update their software and firmware to address such issues and provide better user experiences. However, the resolution of the WDDA warning situation would require collaboration and coordination between both parties to ensure that the warnings are accurate, properly interpreted, and provide actionable guidance for users.

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Is QNAP and other NAS affected?

When it comes to the impact of WDDA warnings, it’s worth noting that different NAS (Network-Attached Storage) manufacturers may handle them differently. QNAP, for example, takes a slightly different approach compared to Synology. QTS, the operating system of QNAP NAS devices, prioritizes SMART checks over the WDDA information. This means that QNAP systems do not constantly display warning messages based solely on WDDA data unless there is a significant issue detected. In contrast to the approach taken by Synology, where WDDA warnings are shown even if the SMART tests come back okay, QNAP systems do not inundate users with warning messages unless there is a more serious concern. QTS OS focuses more on SMART test results to determine the health status of the drives, which can help alleviate unnecessary panic or fear among users.

While QNAP and other NAS manufacturers may still utilize WDDA information for certain critical issues, they generally prioritize SMART tests and rely on more immediate indicators of drive health. This approach aims to provide a clearer and more actionable assessment of drive conditions, ensuring that users are alerted only when there is a genuine cause for concern.

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Should I disable WDDA?   How to disable WDDA? Should I stick with DSM 6?

Whether or not to disable WDDA (Western Digital Device Analytics) is a decision that depends on individual preferences and considerations. Disabling WDDA means that the warnings generated by this feature will no longer be displayed in the DSM (DiskStation Manager) interface. However, it’s important to note that WDDA provides additional information about the drive’s usage and lifespan, which some users may find valuable. To disable WDDA in DSM, you can use SSH (Secure Shell) access and run the following command:

sudo synosetkeyvalue /etc.defaults/synoinfo.conf support_wdda no

This command modifies the configuration file to set the “support_wdda” value to “no,” effectively disabling the WDDA feature. Keep in mind that SSH access and running commands require technical knowledge and should be done carefully. As for sticking with DSM 6 or upgrading to DSM 7, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. DSM 7 may offer new features, improvements, and security enhancements compared to its predecessor. However, it’s recommended to thoroughly research the changes and potential compatibility considerations before making the decision to upgrade. It’s important to note that disabling WDDA or deciding on the DSM version should be done after careful evaluation of the potential impact and considering the specific requirements and preferences of your NAS setup. If uncertain, consulting official documentation, seeking guidance from manufacturer support, or engaging in community discussions can provide valuable insights to make an informed decision.

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Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Hardware Review

The sheer range of solutions available to home and prosumers who want to store their data in their own personal NAS server is genuinely staggering! It’s easy to forget that it wasn’t that long ago that most home users really only had about 3-4 different profiles of desktop devices to opt for – with everything else being designed for business and enterprise users. However, in the last few years, we have seen rackmount turnkey solutions that are genuinely home-user accessible, powerful hardware arrive in more compact servers that better suit home/prosumer enthusiast deployment… and then you have the Flashstor! The Asustor Flashstor is the first genuinely home user-accessible M.2 NVMe SSD Flash server, built around the storage of only M.2 NVMe SSDs. Flash storage, for a long time, immediately translated to ‘enterprise’ and even in its most affordable forms, would always arrive at well over $1000-1500 at entry level (unpopulated) and THAT is what makes the Flashstor so fantastically intriguing as a NAS and Asustor have been making some seriously impressive waves with the reveal of this device in 2023. Arriving in two forms, the 6 & 12 Pro, these arrive at between $499 and $860, putting them at a significantly lower price point than 6/12 Bay SATA solutions. Add to this the base level hardware is comparable (and in some cases higher) than those in said SATA desktop systems AND the system is a combined hardware+software solution with the ADM NAS software and services included – we are talking about a seriously appealing package! But what’s the catch? Where are the compromises? Or have Asustor shaken up the industry in all the right ways with the Flashstor? Let’s review the NAS and see if it deserves your hot data!

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

I cannot stress enough how impressed I am that the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro are priced at $499 and $860, respectively, given the level of hardware on offer here. These are by no means enterprise-grade NAS server solutions, nor should they be thought of as such. However, given the cost of typical fully featured 4x HDD solutions from their competitors and the brand themselves, which often start at $550 and above, it is quite remarkable that the six M.2 SSD system with comparable internal hardware comes in at $499. As long as a user keeps their expectations in line with what this cost versus its capabilities, it’s really tough to argue with the price point that these two devices have arrived at on the market. The Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS presents a unique offering in the NAS market, leveraging NVMe technology to provide high-capacity, ultra-high-performance storage. The device’s design, with its rhombus-shaped enclosure and twelve M.2 NVMe slots, sets it apart from traditional NAS devices and offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. The tool-less drive installation mechanism makes it easy to set up and expand the storage capacity. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The limited number of PCIe lanes provided by the Intel Celeron N5105 processor may restrict the performance of high-speed NVMe drives. The single 10GbE LAN port also presents a potential network bottleneck, limiting the device’s overall network performance. Users seeking maximum performance and network throughput may find alternative solutions better suited to their needs. Despite these limitations, the FS6712X shines as a storage solution for users who prioritize high-capacity storage, quiet operation, and low power consumption. The device’s ability to directly output 4K video, along with its range of Asustor-approved apps, makes it an excellent choice for media distribution and presentation. In terms of pricing, the FS6712X comes with a price tag of $850+. While this may appear high at first glance, it is comparable to 8 bay drive NAS SATA devices and many of those do not even include NVMe slots or 10GbE. Users looking for a more cost-effective option can consider the Flashstor 6, which offers half the number of slots and 2x 2.5GbE enabled ports for $499. As the cost of flash modules continues to drop, and larger capacity drives become available all the way up to 8TB (even without QLC), the FS6712X provides an attractive solution for those seeking high-capacity and high-performance NAS storage. While some underlying performance relativity by the end user needs to be factored in and hardware limitations exist thanks to the use of that Celeron to remain budget-friendly, the FS6712X is a tremendously smart move by Asustor. A well-designed NAS that presents a much more confident solution demonstrating the benefits of NVMe-focused NAS devices to an audience that would have assumed such things are way, WAY outside the realms of affordability!

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Packaging

Much like many other Asustor NAS products, the retail packaging for the Flashstor is colourful and graphical. This is a nice extra step, especially when you factor in that the bulk of buyers are going to purchase the device online (and therefore, that first look at the appealing packaging is going to be AFTER they have splashed the cash!). It’s some slick packaging that is certainly eye-catching!

Opening it up, we find that the presentation of the contents hasn’t let it down either, with the system arriving in a fabric-esc sleeve and the accessories neatly packaged.

The full Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X retail kit contains several items that allow you to deploy the device easily for the very first time. Everything you’re going to need is included here, apart from storage media, as the Flashstor 12 Pro is sold unpopulated. Asustor has always been in the practice of providing solutions without hard drives, so that end users can choose what media and to what extent they wish to populate their NAS on day one. This is, of course, a matter of taste and preference to the end-user, but generally, I always recommend unpopulated solutions, as it will allow you to plan your budget and spending requirements far more fitting to your requirements. The full list of accessories included with the device are:

• FS6712X NAS Unit
• CAT 5e LAN Cables
• External PSU (90W) and Mains Power Cable

• Setup Guide and Warranty Details (3 Years)
• Power Cord Tie

All fairly standard stuff, but packaged very neatly.

I am kinda surprised by the lack of heatsinks (something I raised in my original Before You Buy Video), but Asustor has addressed this question and was keen to highlight that because the lanes on the SSD slots are PCIe Gen 3×1, they should not have sufficient throughput to necessitate heatsinks. Going as far as to produce a temperature testing demonstration:

We will be conducting our own tests soon, looking at sustained use over longer periods to see the impact, but nevertheless, Asustor does make a compelling case. Let’s discuss the design of the Flashstor.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Design

The design of the system is quite ‘PS4’ ish, it has to be said. But it IS fantastically compact, considering the scale of storage available here. With 2280 M.2 NVMes now arriving in as high as 8TB capacity, this is a pretty substantial amount of storage in such as small server. The system has a single base-mounted fan, as well as numerous ventilation points all around the sides. As nice as it looks, is does feel a little cheap as they casing is completely plastic. Not unusual for a desktop NAS and certainly for this price tag, understandable.

Either narrow end of the chassis is massively ventilated, with one backing onto the internal CPU+Heatsink and the other next to the storage media bays. There are also some subtle slits of ventilation on either side that are next to the m.2 NVMe SSD storage bays. The base-mounted fan is located directly over the storage media bays and is connected into the chassis in a sliding motion with a USB connector. It feels well constructed and although the fan itself is a fairly standard PC fan, I applaud the way it’s been utilized and installed here.

The top of the Flashstor comprises a two-tone finish, with a matt black panel on the left and brushed steel effect plastic on the panel above the M.2 NVMe SSD bays. The system also has four LEDs that denote system health, network connectivity, RAID Pool activity and system activity. Pretty much what you would expect and results in a very sleek and understated system when in operation.

The base of the flash store shows us the four rubber feet that raise the system up by a few millimetres, but also that base fan. I do wonder about the effectiveness of this fan on the base of the system (though under the M.2 NVMe SSD media) as the other half of the system is comprised of one large heatsink that covers the CPU, which runs directly into the pathway of that fan, but also the M.2s. Again, we will run some test temps later on the YouTube channel.

The design of the Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS is both unique and slightly unconventional. The rhombus-shaped enclosure, constructed mainly of plastic, sets it apart from traditional NAS devices. While some may find the design to be a matter of personal taste, others may appreciate the visual interest it brings to the table. One peculiar aspect of the design is the location of the power button. It is positioned on the right side of the unit, which can make it challenging to locate from above. This placement is not the most intuitive and may cause initial confusion for users. On a positive note, when the NAS is powered on, the side of the chassis lights up in a vibrant red, adding a cool visual element to the device.

The removable panels on the enclosure provide convenient access to the twelve M.2 NVMe slots. Installing drives is a breeze, thanks to the plastic clip mechanism that holds the drives securely in place. Unlike some NAS devices that require tiny screws for drive installation, the FS6712X simplifies the process with its tool-less design.

However, it’s worth noting that the slots only accommodate 2280-size modules, which may be a limitation for users looking to use smaller/larger form factor drives. That said, 2280 has largely become the defacto size available the bulk of M.2 SSDs on the market.

Overall in terms of build quality, the FS6712X could benefit from a more premium feel. The plastic enclosure, while functional, feels a little cheap. Thicker plastic or the use of metal (perhaps even to aid heat dissipation) would have enhanced the overall durability and sturdiness of the unit, but then we would be hitting the wall of this device’s price point significantly. Despite these minor design considerations, the FS6712X stands out with its distinctive shape and user-friendly drive installation mechanism. Let’s discuss the ports and connectivity.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS offers a range of ports and connections, both typical and unique to NAS devices. At the rear of the unit, you’ll find the standard power and USB ports that are commonly found on NAS units. However, the FS6712X goes beyond the ordinary by providing additional ports typically associated with desktop computers. These include an HDMI port and an S/PDIF port, catering to users who seek media distribution and high-quality digital audio output.

A notable feature of the FS6712X is its inclusion of a 10Gbase-T port 10G port. This high-speed networking capability allows for faster data transfer rates, which is especially beneficial for users working with large files or engaging in data-intensive tasks. The single 10GbE LAN port supports an existing 1GbE network connection or 2.5G too, so you still have flexibility if you are looking to gradually scale up your network environment at a later date with the Flashstor, providing flexibility based on the available network infrastructure. It is a shame that there is only one network connection (with most NAS devices that have 10GbE on port having a 2nd 1GbE port for failover, a traditional internet connection or lower priority connectivity. This is navigatable with a switch of course but it’s still a shame that we only have the single network connection here.

While the FS6712X offers a useful 10GbE LAN port, it also has 2x 10Gb USB connectivity (local accessories and peripherals) and probably one of the largest compatibility lists supported devices than any other brand – USB storage, Office hardware such as printers and scanners, UPS’, TV tuners, Network Adapters and more. Support of USB devices in recent years has decreased among many brands for fears of these being exploited for security workarounds, but % numbers on these are extraordinarily low and the threat actor would need direct access and a USB deliverable payload.

Again, not impossible, but at that point they are hands-on with the sever anyway and the potential for harm is already high! These USB ports are accompanied by a couple more USB 2.0 Ports, which are primarily included for local KVM accessories or just general low bandwidth controllable, in conjunction with the visual and audio outputs. And on that subject…

The general connectivity of this device, for its price point, is another area that left a positive impression on me when getting set for my review. Of course, there are USB ports for storage and accessories, two different network connection options, and then things get quite unique. Both of these devices arrive with not only HDMI 2.0B for increased visual bandwidth performance in 4K, but they also arrive with an SPDIF audio output. This is remarkably rare on network-attached storage devices and those looking to output high-end audio and dense audio format tracks directly into their expensive sound systems will appreciate the enhanced audio and visual connectivity on the Flashstor.

This is still arguably a niche for audio output, but there are certainly users who will be thrilled about this. The HDMI output is utilized with Asustor’s portal application, a complete parallel graphical user interface to access the NAS. It provides a full HDMI user interface that can be controlled via infrared remote control, network remote control, or just a simple USB keyboard and mouse. There are hundreds of available applications and services that can run via this HDMI output, allowing you to run a vast number of local multimedia and business services directly from the device. These range from first-party tools for surveillance and streaming 4K media, to third-party applications for connecting streaming subscription services and virtual machines. Additionally, this system also features an HDMI dedicated parallel GUI, called Asustor portal. This separate user interface and means to interact with the data on your NAS in a far more graphical level is something currently only QNAP provides. The visual out used in conjunction with the two additional USB 3.2/2.0 ports opens up numerous KVM (or keyboard video mouse) applications, such as a stand-alone surveillance system, a stand-alone desktop computer used in conjunction with the virtual machine software, direct output of your movies and box sets from your collection, a retro arcade machine with support for controllers and numerous other first and third-party software options.

Additionally, the Flashstor 12 Pro has scaled things up over the previous model by adding HDMI 2.0b, which is a 4K 60 frames per second visual output, but also is much more efficient at handling HDR and SDR using available bandwidth. That means that you will be able to enjoy particularly dense 4K top-end media with close to zero playback and browsing latency time, by connecting the NAS directly to your TV, as opposed to streaming such large media over the network.

Overall, the FS6712X provides a decent selection of ports and connections, although the absence of USB 3.2 Gen 2 support is a minor drawback that may affect external storage performance. Let’s discuss the internal hardware.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The internal hardware of the Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS is a mix of impressive capabilities and potential limitations. The device is built around the Intel Celeron N5105 processor, a quad-core Jasper Lake CPU known for its power efficiency. This choice of processor strikes a balance between performance and heat generation, making it suitable for NAS applications. Also we have seen extensive use of this processor in the last 18 months but many brands (including asustor themselves in the Lockerstor and Nimbustor Gen 2 series.

This processor has a reasonable 2.0-2.9Ghz performance level, 4 Core/4-thread architecture and integrated graphics which (although not as impressive as a dedicated GFX card or integrated GFX of the likes of an Intel Core) are going to be remarkably handy for tasks such as Plex Media Server conversions, handling heavier surveillance feeds in HEVC or even more graphically stretched containers/VMs. This CPU does however present limitations in the sheer breadth of its PCI lanes and scope to how much use you can put it into, but more on that in a bit. At this price point though, this CPU makes a lot of sense, especially when you factor in that the 6 Bay Flashstor is similar/lower in price to most comparable HDD NAS 4-Bays from Synology/QNAP and the 12 Bay Pro version is 10GbE and lower in price than most 8xHDD NAS Systems of Intel Celeron build.

In terms of memory, the FS6712X comes with 4GB of DDR4 memory as standard (both the 6 and 12 Bay arrive with 4GB by default), which can be expanded up to 16GB. While 4GB may be sufficient for basic NAS functionality, users with more demanding workloads or resource-intensive applications may benefit from upgrading the RAM. The expandability provides flexibility to accommodate varying needs and workloads, especially when you factor in that the Half price 6-Bay has the same memory quantity, but the 12 Bay has 12 NVMes to run AND that 10GbE port. That means that the Flashstor 12 Pro pretty much immediately needs that memory scaled up to at least 8GB if you want to run even a handful of the main services/applications of the FS6712X.

The most noteworthy aspect of the internal hardware is the storage configuration. The FS6712X supports twelve M.2 NVMe slots, allowing for a significant storage capacity. With the ability to accept 2280 PCIe M.2 NVMe modules, the device can potentially house up to 48TB of storage, with the potential to double that capacity when 8TB modules become widely available,peaking at 96TB. There are also several official expansion devices supported (only SATA drives), with even a new 4-Bay 10Gb USB-supported Asustor expansion device available (the AS5004U).

However, it’s important to note that the device’s internal architecture presents some limitations. The Intel Celeron N5105 processor offers a maximum of eight PCIe lanes, which falls short considering the number of M.2 slots and other connectivity options available. This is mitigated by a PCIe bridge chip, but ultimately results in each NVMe SSD slot capping at PCIe Gen 3×1 – so a theoretical maximum of 1,000MB/s per drive, which still won’t be realized in a larger RAID (particularly in Write performance) duue to that efficient little chip just not having the muscles.

This constraint means that each M.2 slot only receives a portion of the bandwidth, potentially limiting the performance of high-speed NVMe drives, with most users most likely utilizing PCIe Gen 3×4 SSDs. This has to be taking in with a pinch of salt, as you need to remain relative to the cost of this device. If you want a full-guns-blazing-flash-NVMe-limitless-server, you would need to spend a few thousand on a Xeon system with the PCI lanes and memory potential to realize it. At $499 for the 6-Bay and a pinch over $850 for the 12 Bay, the performance here is exceedingly relative to the price tag!

Click to view slideshow.

Despite these limitations, the FS6712X provides an excellent platform for high-capacity storage with the potential for future expansion. The choice of components strikes a balance between performance and power efficiency, making it a suitable option for a wide range of users. As long as you keep the hardware and price tag in perspective, you are looking at a very reasonable flash system here and easily one of the best entry points into owning your own flash NAS server.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Software

The Asustor FS6712X NAS arrives with the latest version of ADM included. Additionally, this software receives frequent updates to ensure that the software runs the very best it can on the Flashstor, as well as keeping up to date with security patches and application versions. The NAS software is accessible via a web browser and displayed very much like a normal computer operating system (desktop, user accounts, customizable themes, file management, running multiple tasks in windows that can be switched in the native tabs), but there are also a range of desktop client tools for accessing the NAS on your local machine natively, as well as a whole bunch of mobile applications that allow tailored access from your phone/tablet in more task-specific means (eg a photo app for viewing pictures and creating phone backup routines, a video app for enjoying your movies and boxsets, surveillance app to access your cameras, etc).  There is also a large range of support of 3rd party applications too in the ADM platform. Asustor is not as big a company as the likes of Synology and QNAP, whole put ALOT more money into their software development, but Asustor try to counter this by (when they do not have an in-house app) making native versions of 3rd party tools in their platform (example, they do not have a 1st party Virtual Machine app, but DO include huge support for VirtualBox). The platform is not quite as fully featured as DSM and QTS, but it is still a very smooth and accessible software platform. The app center has a few more 3rd party applications and slightly crowbarred software (eg the Amazon Media and Streaming service plugins) that is not updated up the original uploaders anywhere near enough (leading to running issues on these tools), but the 1st party apps run very well. The big takeaway on the Asustor software and it’s services is that the standard class of expected features of a modern NAS in 2023/2024 are here and run exactly as you would want, it is just some of the additional ones that other platforms have doubled down on (such as AI-related services in Photography and Surveillance for example) that are a little lacking. That said, the brand has definitely ramped up a number of the key security protocols and settings in the default setup.

LooksGood Media App – Built-in three main video library categories; movies, TV shows, home movies and smart video sorting management

• • The efficient global search function allows for searches by keywords followed by the execution of more detailed searches for the purpose of finding categories of movies, TV shows, home movies and parameters such as actors, director, year, genre, writer and title
  • Attractive poster wall and thumbnail display
  • Automatic production of video poster thumbnails
  • Centralized management and ability to configure the order of favourites and playlist history
  • The system administrator is able to configure video library and editing permissions according to user preferences
  • Can configure access permissions to share with
  • Multimedia conversion feature
  • Self-defined smart folder for video conversions
  • Supports digital TV recordings via digital
  • Easy streaming with Chromecast and DLNA
  • Supports playback of videos in Apple TV via AiVideos tvOS version

Plex – Hardware Transcoding (with a Plex Pass) is likely and with 1080p handled very well indeed, as well as some Plex 4K transcoding in H.265 (upto 60-80Mb bitrate) and the majority of H.264 Media upto 100Mb bitrate

Virtual Machines – A graphical embedded CPU like the one here will run Windows 10 and Android VMs very well. With the added support for Ubuntu and Hackintosh with VirtualBox. Then there is the option to scale up that memory to allow smoother VMs

Storage Management – BTRFS Support, as well as EXT4 for the traditionalist, Multiple Snapshot storage and browsing for recovery, a large number of ISCSI and LUN target creation, fast-acting SSD caching use. Remember that those M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used as both raw Pools and Caching

Network Management – Support of LAG, Load Balancing and virtual switches, as well as maintaining top transmission over 2.5/5/10Gbe for editing or gaming over the network. As well as Jumbo Frame control, DDNS automation, Wake on LAN support and internet/external NAS access with EZ Connect

Backups – Supporting a wide range of multi-tiered backup options that can be carried out simultaneously thanks to the powerful CPU in the Flashstor and Nimbustor NAS systems, such as network RSync, USB Backups, NAS-2-NAS migration, Cloud Backups with Google Drive, Dropbox and Backblaze and numerous RAID levels internally for redundancy.

Content Management – Numerous Content Management Systems (CMS) and Customer Relationship Managers (CRMs) available in 1st and 3rd party forms, with simultaneous operations supported by this NAS

User Account Control – Supporting over 4,000 accounts, each with its own bespoke privileges and access levels, as well as grouping methods to automate the process easily

Security – AES 256bit hardware encryption on data in/out of the device, as well as over backup methods, with the Intel Celeron CPU in the FS6712X maintaining high R/W speeds throughout, as well as Windows ACL permission and configuration, auto blacklisting and multiple VPN provider support

Antivirus (ClamAV) – Scheduled Scans, Automatic Virus Definition Updates, Quarantine Infected Files

Download Center – Supports BT(Torrent & Magnet Link), HTTP and FTP Downloads, Torrent Search, Bandwidth Control, RSS Subscription and Automatic Downloading (Broadcatching), ASUSTOR Download Assistant for Windows & Mac

DropBox, OneDrive and Google Drive Sync – Each ADM Account is Able to Individually Log into one cloud Account, supporting Sync, Directly Upload Files to cloud from the NAS, or from cloud to NAS

Mail Server – Each ADM Account can Become an Independent Email Account, Provides SMTP, IMAP and POP3 Mail Protocols, Spam Filter and Black List Settings, Antivirus Scanning for Emails, Exclusive Email Backup Mechanism, Auto-Forwarding and Auto-Response Protocols

Photo Gallary – “Album” and “Browse” Viewing Modes, Manage Photo Album Access Rights: Public Access, Restricted to Certain Accounts, Album Password, Multi-level Folder Structure Support, Supports Tagging of Photos, One-click Sharing to Social Media (Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Plurk, email), Intuitive Drag and Drop Management, Slideshow Viewing Mode, Supports a Wide Range of Image Formats: JPG/JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, TIFF, RAW and Supports Video Playback

Surveillance Center – Up to 64 channels in 720p on single live view display, On-screen camera controls including camera PTZ, manual recordings, take snapshots, configure camera settings and open Maps, Up to 4 channels of synchronous and non-synchronous playback with audio, Intelligent video analytics including motion detection and foreign object detection, Supported Browsers: Windows Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Mac Safari, Mac Firefox ESR, Event notification supports SMS, E-mail, and mobile push notification, AiSecure mobile app for iOS and Android with Push notification, Maximum IP Cam (4 Free Licenses; Additional Licenses to be Purchased)

Takeasy – Download from YouTube, Vimeo, Twitch and More, Selectable Video Type and Quality, Automatic Downloads with YouTube or Twitch Subscriptions, Preview Downloads in Progress and Online Playback

SoundsGood Audio App – Import Personal/Public Music Collection, Personal/Public Music Collection Permission Control, Playlist Editor, ID3 Tag Editor, Local Speaker Support: HDMI, USB, Audio Jack, Supported Audio Formats for Browser: MP3, WAV, Ogg, Supported Audio Formats for Transcoding Through Browser: AIFF, Flac, Supported Audio Formats for Local Speaker: MP3, WAV, Ogg, AIFF, Flac

Backup Tools – Rsync (Remote Sync) Backup, Cloud Backup, FTP Backup, External Backup, One-Touch Backup, EZ Sync, Btrfs Snapshots

The Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS runs the Asustor NAS operating system, ADM 4.2. ADM offers a user-friendly web management interface that is intuitive and accessible. While it may not have as many wizards as some competing NAS systems, it strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, making it suitable for both novice and experienced users.

One of the notable strengths of the software is the wide range of Asustor-approved apps available. Users can take advantage of various applications for tasks such as media distribution and presentation, thanks to the FS6712X’s capability to directly output 4K video through the HDMI port and the Asustor Portal interface. The inclusion of an S/PDIF port further enhances the device’s ability to cater to high-quality digital audio needs. Additionally, ADM supports multiple internal and external file systems, including Btrfs, EXT4, NTFS, FAT32, HFS+, and ExFAT. This flexibility allows users to work with various file systems and ensures compatibility with different storage devices and operating systems.

While the FS6712X offers a solid software experience with the Asustor NAS operating system, it’s worth noting that the software does not differentiate between the NVMe storage and other drive mechanisms. This means that the performance of the NVMe drives may not be fully utilized over the network. However, if the NAS is primarily used for indexing data directly or for local access, it can take advantage of the interactions between the Intel Celeron N5105 processor and the drive array, resulting in improved performance.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Benchmarks

Currently, we are working on a dedicated video benchmarking the Asustor Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro with range of different RAID configurations and SSDs (as well as temperature testing). However, between RAID builds and sourcing the M.2 SSD media, this is taking longer than expected. These dedicated performance/system running tests should be live in the next week or so, but in the meantime below are a few early results from initial performance testing with a RAID 5 of half the available bays. We were hitting 1674MB/s (333291 4K Random IO/s) seq Read and 885MB/s (176919 4K Random IO/s) Seq Write. However, this was with small cap Gen3 drives that were not on the compatibility list of the system (that doesn’t;t mean they are not usable, just that Asustor had not verified them yet and there are literally hundreds of thousands of different SSDs in the market). We will be running tests with more established SSDs soon.

Click to view slideshow.

Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS Review – Conclusion

I cannot stress enough how impressed I am that the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro are priced at $499 and $860, respectively, given the level of hardware on offer here. These are by no means enterprise-grade NAS server solutions, nor should they be thought of as such. However, given the cost of typical fully featured 4x HDD solutions from their competitors and the brand themselves, which often start at $550 and above, it is quite remarkable that the six M.2 SSD system with comparable internal hardware comes in at $499. As long as a user keeps their expectations in line with what this cost versus its capabilities, it’s really tough to argue with the price point that these two devices have arrived at on the market. The Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS presents a unique offering in the NAS market, leveraging NVMe technology to provide high-capacity, ultra-high-performance storage. The device’s design, with its rhombus-shaped enclosure and twelve M.2 NVMe slots, sets it apart from traditional NAS devices and offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. The tool-less drive installation mechanism makes it easy to set up and expand the storage capacity. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

The limited number of PCIe lanes provided by the Intel Celeron N5105 processor may restrict the performance of high-speed NVMe drives. The single 10GbE LAN port also presents a potential network bottleneck, limiting the device’s overall network performance. Users seeking maximum performance and network throughput may find alternative solutions better suited to their needs. Despite these limitations, the FS6712X shines as a storage solution for users who prioritize high-capacity storage, quiet operation, and low power consumption. The device’s ability to directly output 4K video, along with its range of Asustor-approved apps, makes it an excellent choice for media distribution and presentation. In terms of pricing, the FS6712X comes with a price tag of $850+. While this may appear high at first glance, it is comparable to 8 bay drive NAS SATA devices and many of those do not even include NVMe slots or 10GbE. Users looking for a more cost-effective option can consider the Flashstor 6, which offers half the number of slots and 2x 2.5GbE enabled ports for $499. As the cost of flash modules continues to drop, and larger capacity drives become available all the way up to 8TB (even without QLC), the FS6712X provides an attractive solution for those seeking high-capacity and high-performance NAS storage. While some underlying performance relativity by the end user needs to be factored in and hardware limitations exist thanks to the use of that Celeron to remain budget-friendly, the FS6712X is a tremendously smart move by Asustor. A well-designed NAS that presents a much more confident solution demonstrating the benefits of NVMe-focused NAS devices to an audience that would have assumed such things are way, WAY outside the realms of affordability!

PROs of the Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS	CONs of the Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X NAS
12x NVMe SSD Flash NAS for under $1000 – COME ON! 10GbE onboard Full 1st Party NAS OS Included USB 3.2 Gen 2 10G Connectivity and wide USB Support/Compatibility Very Slick and compact design SP/DIF and HDMI 2.0b Outputs will hugely please the multimedia user community Likewise, Plex Performance is very good for 4K and 1080p conversions	12x NVMe Performance will never be realised because of the Intel Celeron CPU inside  Only 1x network port means Failover or NIC priority management is not possible 4GB default memory in the 12 Bay model seems too low for day 1 (12x M.2 + 10G, plus same as 6 Bay)

Model
Model	FS6706T	FS6712X
PRICE	$499 – CHECK Amazon	$860 – CHECK Amazon
CPU	Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core 2.0GHz (burst up 2.90 GHz) Processor	Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core 2.0GHz (burst up 2.90 GHz) Processor
HARDWARE ENCRYPTION ENGINE
HARDWARE ACCELERATION ENGINE	H.264 (AVC),H.265(HEVC), MPEG-4 Part 2, MPEG-2, VC-1	H.264 (AVC),H.265(HEVC), MPEG-4 Part 2, MPEG-2, VC-1
MEMORY	4GB SO-DIMM DDR4 (4GB x1, Expandable. Max 16GB)	4GB SO-DIMM DDR4 (4GB x1, Expandable. Max 16GB)
M.2 DRIVE SLOTS	6 x NVMe/SATA	12 x NVMe/SATA
HDD	N/A	N/A
MAXIMUM DRIVE BAYS WITH EXPANSION UNIT	14	20
SUPPORTS SINGLE VOLUME LARGER THAN 16TB