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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

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

You DO NOT Need a NAS – Here is Why

Rob Andrews

24 février 2025 à 18:00

Why NAS Drives are NOT for Everyone – 5 Reasons You Do Not Need a NAS

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is often promoted as the ideal solution for data management, offering advantages like local control, redundancy, and flexible access. However, while NAS has many benefits, it is not the right choice for everyone. Depending on individual needs, alternatives such as cloud storage or Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) may provide a simpler, more cost-effective, or more practical solution. This article explores five key reasons why a NAS may not be the best choice for certain users. From the convenience of cloud storage to the high upfront costs of NAS devices, we will break down the potential drawbacks and alternative solutions that might better fit specific use cases. Understanding these factors can help users make an informed decision about their storage needs.

Disclaimer – NAS devices provide a robust and flexible storage solution, but they are not necessary for all users. Those with simpler storage needs—such as single-device backups or direct file access—may find that a Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) device better meets their requirements. External hard drives and SSDs offer straightforward, cost-effective alternatives without the complexity of network management. Cloud storage remains a convenient and accessible option, particularly for those who need remote access without dealing with hardware setup. While it comes with long-term costs and data security considerations, cloud services offer ease of use and automation that may be preferable for some users. Additionally, a hybrid NAS and cloud approach can provide the best of both worlds, allowing users to maintain local storage while leveraging cloud redundancy for added backup security and accessibility. Choosing the right storage solution depends on specific use cases, technical expertise, and long-term data management goals.

1. The Convenience of Cloud Storage is Unquestionable

One of the primary reasons a NAS may not be necessary for some users is the convenience of cloud storage. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and iCloud offer instant accessibility, making it easy to store, sync, and retrieve files from any internet-connected device. Unlike NAS, which requires setup, configuration, and ongoing maintenance, cloud storage is designed to be user-friendly. Users can simply sign up, upload files, and access them from anywhere, without needing to worry about network configurations, remote access tunnels, or firewall adjustments. This simplicity makes cloud storage an appealing option for users who want a hassle-free experience without managing hardware.

Beyond ease of use, cloud services are also optimized for redundancy and failover protection, ensuring that data remains safe and accessible even if hardware failures occur on the provider’s end. Large-scale cloud platforms have multiple data centers worldwide, meaning that even in the event of a regional outage, files remain available from alternative locations. Cloud storage is particularly advantageous for those who travel frequently or work remotely, as accessing a NAS over the internet can introduce latency, security challenges, and connectivity issues. For example, transferring large files to a NAS while on the road may require complex VPN configurations and reliable internet access, whereas cloud storage offers seamless access without any additional setup. This makes cloud storage a more practical choice for users who prioritize mobility and convenience over local ownership.

Example of the complexity of a NAS to Cloud Sync:

2. Simplicity of Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) for Single Users vs NAS is Indisputable

For individuals who primarily work from a single device, a NAS may be unnecessary and even overcomplicated. A Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) device—such as an external hard drive, SSD, or even a RAID-configured DAS—provides a more straightforward and often more cost-effective solution. Unlike NAS, which requires a network connection and some level of system administration, a DAS device simply connects directly to a computer via USB, Thunderbolt, or eSATA and is ready to use instantly. This plug-and-play functionality makes DAS ideal for users who just need additional storage or a backup solution without any complexity.

DAS also offers direct hardware integration with professional applications, making it a preferred choice for photographers, video editors, and graphic designers. Many creative professionals rely on high-speed DAS devices because they provide lower latency and faster data transfer rates than a network-based NAS. A high-speed Thunderbolt RAID array, for example, can provide much faster read and write speeds than a NAS connected via 1GbE or even 2.5GbE networking. Additionally, for users who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly, physically shipping an external drive remains a viable and often faster option than uploading terabytes of data to a NAS remotely. If a user primarily works from one computer and does not need network-based file access, a DAS setup can be a much more practical and efficient choice than investing in a NAS.

3. Cloud and DAS = Lower Power Consumption and Long-Term Operating Costs

One often overlooked factor when deciding on a NAS is its ongoing power consumption. Unlike DAS devices, which only require power when in use, a NAS typically runs 24/7, constantly consuming electricity even when idle. While modern NAS devices offer power-saving features such as scheduled shutdowns and sleep modes, they still draw more power than a simple external hard drive. This can be a concern for users in areas with high electricity costs, those who live in mobile homes, or people who rely on solar or backup power sources. Over the course of a year, the difference in power consumption between a NAS and a simple external drive can add up, making it an important consideration for budget-conscious users.

Example of Power Consumption of a 6-Bay NAS with 6x HDD and 2x SSD (Intel N305 i3 CPU):

Beyond electricity costs, there’s also the issue of long-term maintenance. Hard drives inside a NAS are designed to run continuously, meaning they wear out faster compared to drives that are powered on only when needed. Each mechanical hard drive has a limited number of operational hours before failure becomes more likely. In contrast, an external hard drive that is only used periodically for backups can last much longer. Additionally, NAS devices require ongoing software updates, security patches, and general monitoring to function optimally. For users who do not want to deal with the responsibility of maintaining a dedicated storage system, a NAS may be more trouble than it’s worth, especially when compared to simpler alternatives like external hard drives or cloud storage.

Example of Noise Level of a 4x HDD and 2x SSD NAS (Lincstation S1 NAS):

4. Cloud Mean Avoiding Vendor Lock-in and Data Migration Challenges

NAS systems operate as full-fledged computing devices with their own proprietary operating systems, which can make migrating data between different NAS brands or platforms a challenge. For example, if a user sets up a Synology NAS and later wants to switch to a QNAP or another brand, they may encounter significant roadblocks in moving their existing file structures, metadata, and system settings. Unlike traditional external storage solutions that use universal formats like NTFS, exFAT, or APFS, NAS devices often use specialized file systems optimized for their specific ecosystems. This means that simply swapping out drives between NAS brands is not always possible without extensive data transfers and reconfigurations.

In contrast, DAS devices and cloud storage solutions provide more flexibility for users who may need to migrate their data in the future. A USB hard drive can be connected to any computer with minimal effort, and cloud services typically offer built-in tools to migrate data between providers. Additionally, NAS users often rely on specific applications and configurations tied to their system, making it more difficult to transition to a different storage solution later. While there are workarounds—such as using standard file transfer protocols like SMB or FTP—these solutions require extra time and effort, which may not be practical for users who need a simple and easily portable storage option. For those who value long-term flexibility, avoiding NAS vendor lock-in may be a more prudent choice.

5. NAS = High Initial Costs and Uncertain Return on Investment for Some

Perhaps the most significant reason some users should avoid a NAS is the cost. Compared to external storage solutions, NAS devices are considerably more expensive, especially when factoring in the price of both the NAS enclosure and the hard drives required to populate it. Even budget NAS devices start at a few hundred dollars, and higher-end models with advanced features can cost well over $1,000, not including the drives. When comparing cost per terabyte, NAS drives are generally more expensive than external USB drives due to their enhanced durability and NAS-optimized firmware. For users who do not need advanced features like RAID redundancy, Docker applications, or network-wide accessibility, the extra cost of a NAS may not be justifiable.

Beyond the initial purchase, users must also consider the long-term costs associated with NAS ownership. Hard drives wear out over time and will eventually need to be replaced, adding to the overall expense. Additionally, while NAS devices provide a wide range of powerful features, many users may not fully utilize them. If someone only needs basic storage and backup capabilities, a NAS might be an unnecessary investment, and they may be better off with a simple DAS setup or cloud-based storage solution. Before committing to a NAS, potential buyers should carefully evaluate whether they will take full advantage of its features or if a more affordable and straightforward alternative would better suit their needs.

While NAS devices offer powerful features and advantages for data management, they are not always the most practical option. For users who prioritize convenience, cloud storage may be a better fit. Those who work primarily from a single device may find a Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) setup more efficient. Additionally, factors such as power consumption, vendor lock-in, and long-term costs should all be carefully considered before investing in a NAS. Ultimately, the best storage solution depends on individual requirements. A NAS can be a great investment for those who need centralized, multi-user access and advanced functionality, but it is not the only option. Evaluating storage needs based on cost, performance, and ease of use will help determine whether a NAS is the right fit or if an alternative solution would be more suitable.

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

You NEED A NAS – Time To Ditch the Cloud

Rob Andrews

19 février 2025 à 18:00

You NEED A NAS Drive – And Here Is Why

In today’s digital world, data storage plays a crucial role in both personal and professional environments. Many individuals and businesses rely on cloud storage for convenience, but it’s not always the best option. While cloud services provide accessibility and automation, they come with limitations, including long-term costs, security concerns, and restrictions on data ownership. For those who value control over their files, a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device offers a compelling alternative. This article explores five key reasons why a NAS can be a better choice for data management compared to cloud storage. From total data ownership to long-term cost savings, we examine how NAS devices provide more flexibility, security, and performance for those looking to store and access their data efficiently.

Disclaimer!

While NAS devices offer significant advantages in terms of data ownership, security, and long-term cost efficiency, they are not the ideal solution for everyone. Users with simpler storage needs, such as those requiring direct, high-speed access to a single device, may find that a Direct Attached Storage (DAS) setup better suits their requirements without the additional complexity of network management.

Additionally, cloud storage remains a convenient and accessible option, particularly for those who need a quick and automated solution without the upfront cost of dedicated hardware. Cloud services provide seamless access from anywhere and can be a great short-term or supplementary storage method. For many users, a hybrid approach—combining NAS with cloud storage—strikes the right balance. This setup allows users to enjoy the accessibility of the cloud while benefiting from the control and security of a NAS, particularly when implementing structured backup routines. Each storage solution has its strengths, and the best choice depends on individual needs and use cases.

1. A NAS Server = Total Data Ownership

Owning a NAS (Network Attached Storage) means complete control over your data, something that cloud storage simply cannot provide. When you use cloud services, you are essentially handing over your files to a third party, entrusting them to manage and store your data. While this is convenient, it also introduces several risks, including data breaches, sudden policy changes, or service discontinuations. Many cloud providers state in their terms of service that they reserve the right to scan, analyze, or even remove content that violates their policies, which can be vague and subject to interpretation. A NAS eliminates this uncertainty by giving you full ownership—your data resides physically in your home or office, and no one but you determines what happens to it.

Beyond ownership, NAS systems offer better control over data distribution. You decide where backups are stored, how often they occur, and who has access. This is especially important for photographers, videographers, and businesses that require compliance with strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA. For example, a small business handling client records can store sensitive customer data on an encrypted NAS, ensuring compliance without relying on cloud providers that may store files in different jurisdictions. Another key advantage is preventing data from being used to train AI models or sold to advertisers—something that is an increasing concern with major tech companies. Owning a NAS ensures that your data is truly private, unmonitored, and secure from external influences.

2. A NAS Means Bespoke Security Settings

Cloud providers implement security measures, but these are designed for general use, meaning they cannot be customized to fit specific needs. While cloud services offer encryption, user authentication, and basic access controls, they often lack advanced security features that enterprises or tech-savvy users require. With a NAS, you can tailor security settings at a granular level, ensuring that only the right people can access specific files and folders. You can configure user authentication with two-factor authentication (2FA), enforce strict password policies, and even limit access based on IP addresses or device types. For example, you can allow a work computer to access files but block access from unknown mobile devices, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.

Additionally, NAS security extends beyond simple user access. If you integrate a NAS with a managed switch and firewall, you can create network segmentation, restricting access to only certain parts of your infrastructure. Air-gapping—a security practice that physically or digitally isolates a device from external networks—can be used to create periods where the NAS is completely inaccessible, making data leaks or cyberattacks virtually impossible. Scheduled access times add another layer of protection, ensuring that even if credentials are compromised, unauthorized users cannot gain entry outside of designated periods. NAS devices also provide real-time security alerts that can be customized to notify administrators about unusual activity, such as multiple failed login attempts, unauthorized file transfers, or new device connections. This kind of tailored security is simply not possible with generic cloud services, making a NAS the superior choice for those who prioritize privacy and control.

3. A NAS Can Mean True Deletion When Needed

Deleting data from cloud storage is not as straightforward as it seems. Most cloud services use a soft-delete approach, meaning that when you delete a file, it isn’t immediately erased. Instead, it is moved to a trash folder where it remains for 30 to 90 days before being automatically purged. Even after this period, many cloud providers create multiple copies of your files across their servers for redundancy, making it difficult to ensure that your data is completely gone. In some cases, metadata or indexed portions of your files may still exist within the provider’s infrastructure, and depending on the terms of service, your data may even be retained for analytics or AI training.

With a NAS, true deletion is possible because you have full control over your data. When you delete a file, it is removed from your storage pool, and if you want absolute certainty, you can use secure erasure tools to overwrite the data multiple times, making recovery impossible. Many NAS systems include built-in data-wiping features that follow Department of Defense (DoD) 5220.22-M standards, ensuring complete removal of sensitive information. For highly sensitive data, you can physically destroy storage drives—a practice commonly used by corporations and government agencies. Some companies specialize in secure drive destruction, ensuring that data cannot be recovered by any means. For personal use, simply reformatting or physically damaging a hard drive provides an additional layer of security. This level of control over data deletion is something that cloud storage cannot match, making NAS the ideal choice for those who need true data removal capabilities.

4. NAS vs Cloud = Cost Savings in the Long Term

At first glance, cloud storage seems like an affordable option. Many services offer free storage up to a certain limit, and paid plans start as low as a few dollars per month. However, the long-term costs can quickly add up. Subscription-based storage models require continuous payments, meaning that over several years, you could spend far more on cloud storage than you would on a one-time NAS purchase. Additionally, most cloud providers offer tiered pricing, meaning that as your storage needs grow, your monthly fees increase significantly. Businesses and content creators with terabytes of data often find themselves paying hundreds of dollars annually just to store their files.

Another hidden cost of cloud storage is data retrieval, known as egress fees. Many cloud providers limit how much data you can download within a given timeframe, and if you exceed this limit, you are charged extra. For example, Amazon S3 and Google Cloud charge egress fees that can quickly add up when transferring large amounts of data. In contrast, a NAS has no such limitations—once you own the device, you can access and transfer files as much as you want without paying additional fees.

If you plan to store data for more than three to five years, a NAS will almost always be the more cost-effective choice. Even budget NAS devices with included hard drives, such as the $199 models with 4TB of storage, offer better long-term value than many cloud subscriptions. Investing in a NAS early ensures that you avoid rising costs while maintaining full control over your data.

5. A NAS (Almost Always) Means Performance and Speed Benefits

Cloud storage is convenient for remote access, but it is heavily dependent on internet speeds, network congestion, and provider limitations. Upload and download speeds are constrained by your ISP, meaning that large file transfers can take hours or even days. Most cloud services also impose bandwidth limits or throttling policies, reducing transfer speeds during peak hours. For users who need fast access to large files—such as video editors, photographers, or IT professionals—cloud performance is simply not sufficient.

A NAS, on the other hand, offers significantly better performance, particularly for local access. Even basic NAS systems with gigabit Ethernet can achieve speeds of 100 MB/s (megabytes per second), far exceeding most cloud transfer rates. Higher-end models support 2.5GbE, 5GbE, or even 10GbE connections, allowing speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s—nearly 100 times faster than standard cloud storage. For example, a team of video editors working with 4K footage can stream and edit files directly from a NAS without any noticeable lag, something that would be impossible with cloud storage due to latency issues. NAS devices also support SSD caching, RAID configurations for redundancy, and multiple simultaneous users, ensuring high performance even under heavy workloads.

Another advantage of NAS is its ability to function as a local media server. Unlike cloud services that require constant internet access and may throttle streaming quality, a NAS can store and stream high-resolution content locally without buffering. This makes it ideal for home theaters, Plex servers, and shared family storage. Businesses can also benefit from NAS performance by hosting internal file-sharing platforms, reducing reliance on slow or expensive cloud-based collaboration tools. In short, NAS outperforms cloud storage in every aspect of speed and efficiency, making it the best choice for users who demand high-speed, reliable access to their files.

While cloud storage remains a popular choice, it is not without drawbacks. Issues such as long-term expenses, limited security customization, and potential data retention concerns make it less than ideal for users who require full control over their files. A NAS, by contrast, provides a dedicated, high-performance storage solution that allows users to take ownership of their data, manage access securely, and benefit from predictable costs over time. Ultimately, whether a NAS or cloud storage is the right choice depends on individual needs. Those looking for convenience and automatic backups may still find value in cloud services, while users who prioritize security, cost efficiency, and local performance will likely benefit from investing in a NAS. Understanding these differences can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their data storage strategy.

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

Lincstation N2 NAS Review

Rob Andrews

17 février 2025 à 18:00

The Lincstation N2 NAS Review

The Lincstation N2 NAS is the successor to the Lincstation N1, a flash-focused NAS system that made waves in 2024. While the N1 was praised for its compact size and SSD-centric design, it had certain limitations, such as the lack of 10GbE connectivity and limited active cooling. Now, Lincplus has refined and upgraded its previous design, bringing the N2 to crowdfunding with a stronger CPU, better airflow management, and a built-in 10GbE port. But do these enhancements justify the upgrade, and is it a true alternative to other compact NAS systems from QNAP, Synology, or Asustor? Let’s take a deep dive into the new Lincstation N2 NAS and see how it stacks up.

SOFTWARE - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.2

PROS

10GbE networking for high-speed transfers

Compact, silent, and power-efficient

Includes 1 Year UnRAID license for easy setup

Supports four M.2 NVMe SSDs and two SATA SSDs

Low power consumption and passive+active cooling

Improved design over the N1 with better airflow

CONS

Limited PCIe lanes affecting 10GbE throughput

Non-upgradeable RAM (fixed 16GB LPDDR5)

N100 CPU has very recently seen a refresh towards the N150

Uses a barrel-type power adapter instead of USB-C

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

Lincstation N2 NAS – Specifications

The Lincstation N2 is powered by an Intel Alder Lake-N N100 processor, a quad-core CPU designed for low power consumption and efficient performance. It comes pre-installed with 16GB of onboard LPDDR5 memory, which is non-upgradeable but maximized for the CPU’s capabilities. Storage options include four M.2 NVMe slots and two SATA SSD bays, allowing for a fast, all-flash storage configuration.

Connectivity sees a major boost with the inclusion of a single 10GbE port, a significant upgrade over the dual 2.5GbE ports found on the N1. Additional USB connectivity includes one USB Type-C 10Gbps, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and two USB 2.0 ports for peripherals. The external chassis has been redesigned with better ventilation, including a larger passive cooling panel and improved heat dissipation for long-term reliability.

Specification	Lincstation N2
Processor	Intel Alder Lake-N N100 (Quad-Core, up to 3.4GHz)
Memory	16GB LPDDR5 (Non-upgradeable)
Storage (OS)	128GB eMMC
Storage (SATA)	2 x 2.5″ SATA SSD bays
Storage (NVMe)	4 x M.2 NVMe 2280 SSD slots (PCIe Gen 3 x1)
Networking	1 x 10GbE RJ45
USB Ports	1 x USB Type-C 10Gbps, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 2 x USB 2.0
Video Output	1 x HDMI 2.0 (4K 60Hz)
Cooling	Passive and Active Hybrid Cooling System
Power Supply	60W External PSU (Barrel-type Connector)
Operating System	UnRAID (Pre-installed, 1-year license included)
Chassis Material	Metal & Plastic Hybrid
Dimensions	Compact Desktop Form Factor
Weight	TBD

Lincstation N2 NAS – Packaging

Since the N2 is currently in prototype stage, its final retail packaging is yet to be confirmed. However, the unit received for review included the NAS unit, a 60W external power supply, a first-time setup guide, and an UnRAID activation scratch card. Unlike many NAS brands, the Lincstation N2 does not include an Ethernet cable, which is something users should prepare for.

The packaging is minimalist and protective, designed to keep the NAS unit secure during transit, ensuring it remains well-protected from impact or shifting during shipping. The outer packaging features clear branding and basic specifications, though additional documentation on first-time setup would be beneficial, particularly for new UnRAID users. The box itself is relatively compact, reducing unnecessary waste while maintaining effective protection for the unit.

One of the notable elements in the package is the UnRAID activation card, which includes a scratch-off code for license registration. This ensures that users can activate their UnRAID installation immediately, allowing them to set up their storage array and applications with minimal delay. Given that UnRAID is a key selling point of the N2, including physical licensing details within the packaging is a welcome touch. The activation process is straightforward, and the included instructions provide a step-by-step guide on how to register and enable the software.

The external PSU remains barrel-type rather than USB-C, a decision that may disappoint users accustomed to more modern power connectors. However, the power brick itself is high quality, ensuring stable and efficient energy delivery. Given the N2’s low overall power draw, the external PSU design makes sense to keep heat generation outside the NAS chassis. While USB-C would have been a more modern and convenient choice, this power adapter provides reliable and consistent power delivery.

Additionally, it would have been useful to see additional accessories included, such as a basic network cable or drive installation tools, which are often included in NAS packages from other brands. Having all essential setup components in the box would make the initial setup experience even smoother, particularly for users who may not have immediate access to spare cables or peripherals.

Lincstation N2 NAS – Design & Build

The Lincstation N2 follows a compact, minimalistic design, much like its predecessor, making it an ideal desktop or office NAS. The metallic cooling panel at the bottom has been improved, allowing better passive airflow to support the fanless cooling design.

The four M.2 NVMe bays are located on the underside, while two SATA SSD slots are positioned at the front for easy installation.

A set of front-facing LED indicators provides system status updates, while an integrated neon status light enhances visibility. The magnetic panel for SSD installation remains a standout feature, allowing quick access to drive bays without the need for tools. Although the N2 is nearly silent in operation, high-intensity workloads may cause the system to warm up, making the new airflow improvements crucial for long-term performance.

The new chassis design enhances durability, featuring a sturdier metal and plastic blend that reinforces the unit without adding excess weight. The minimalist aesthetic is well-suited for both home and professional environments, ensuring that the NAS fits seamlessly alongside existing equipment. Cooling remains a primary focus, with improved airflow pathways reducing heat buildup and ensuring stable performance even under extended workloads.

The ventilation improvements include an expanded airflow channel that spans the entire underside of the device. This design allows heat from the NVMe drives and CPU to dissipate more effectively, reducing the need for aggressive active cooling solutions. Combined with efficient heat sinking, the N2 is able to maintain performance without excessive noise.

The compact footprint ensures that desk space usage is minimal, making it an ideal option for users with limited workspace. Additionally, the stackable design means multiple units can be arranged efficiently for users with multiple NAS or networking devices. The thoughtful combination of passive and active cooling elements ensures the N2 delivers sustained performance without requiring frequent maintenance.

Lincstation N2 NAS – Ports & Connectivity

The Lincstation N2 improves on the N1 by introducing a single 10GbE network port, replacing the dual 2.5GbE ports seen in its predecessor. This upgrade allows users to achieve significantly higher transfer speeds, making the NAS ideal for large file transfers, media editing, and network virtualization. However, the 10GbE performance is somewhat limited due to PCIe lane constraints, meaning users may not fully saturate the bandwidth under all conditions.

In addition to the 10GbE port, the N2 includes a USB Type-C 10Gbps port, providing high-speed connectivity for external storage devices. There is also a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, ensuring compatibility with a range of USB peripherals. The inclusion of two USB 2.0 ports allows users to connect basic accessories, such as keyboards and mice for local management.

The rear layout of the N2 is designed for easy cable management, ensuring tidy workspace integration. Users looking to expand network connectivity beyond 10GbE may need to rely on USB-to-Ethernet adapters, as the system does not support PCIe expansion. The limited expandability of networking options might disappoint users who were hoping for an additional slot for NIC upgrades, but the onboard 10GbE should suffice for most users in this category.

Given that USB ports are an essential component of any NAS setup, the N2 provides a good balance between speed and compatibility. The USB-C 10Gbps port is particularly useful for connecting external SSD enclosures, expanding fast-access storage options for users with additional high-speed media requirements. However, it is worth noting that additional expansion beyond USB is not available, making pre-planning your connectivity needs essential before setup.

Lincstation N2 NAS – Internal Hardware & Performance

The Lincstation N2 utilizes an Intel N100 CPU, a power-efficient quad-core processor capable of handling basic NAS tasks, virtualization, and container workloads. While not a high-end processor, it provides a good balance of power and efficiency. The 16GB LPDDR5 memory ensures smooth multitasking but cannot be expanded.

Storage performance is solid, with M.2 NVMe drives operating at PCIe Gen 3×1, delivering around 800MB/s read/write speeds. SATA SSDs achieve speeds of 500–600MB/s, making them suitable for RAID 1 or RAID-Z configurations. However, users looking to push extreme performance benchmarks will find the PCIe lane allocation slightly restrictive, especially for multi-drive simultaneous access scenarios.

(Click below to open in new tab in full size)

2x SATA SSD, BTRFS MIRROR, SMB SHARE, 1GB and 4GB TESTS

4x M.2 NVMe SSD, ZFS POOL, SMB SHARE, 1GB and 4GB TESTS

Power consumption is exceptionally low, with idle usage around 10–13W and peak operation at 18–22W. The external power adapter remains adequate, though a USB-C power option would be preferable. Energy efficiency remains one of the standout features of the N2, making it an excellent choice for users looking to build a long-term, low-cost NAS setup.

Heat dissipation has been improved significantly over the N1, with an upgraded passive cooling system featuring a larger vented bottom panel. Under full load, temperatures remain within acceptable limits, preventing thermal throttling or reduced drive longevity.

Given that flash-based NAS systems tend to generate more heat than HDD counterparts, these improvements help maintain reliability for continuous operation.

During real-world testing, the N2 performed admirably under multiple storage scenarios, including RAID-Z, traditional RAID configurations, and direct disk access. The optimized drive placement and airflow system allow the NAS to maintain consistent speeds without overheating, even under heavy sequential read/write workloads. While the N2 may not break records in enterprise performance metrics, it delivers stable and reliable performance for home and small-business users.

Lincstation N2 NAS – Software & UnRAID Integration

The N2 ships with UnRAID, providing a flexible NAS platform for storage pooling, Docker containers, and virtual machines. The included one-year UnRAID license ensures access to the latest features and security updates. Users can opt to renew their license or switch to other NAS OS options.

UnRAID’s intuitive UI allows for quick configuration, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. Additional plugins may be required for full system monitoring, as Lincstation does not develop its own NAS OS. While UnRAID offers extensive community support, some users may prefer TrueNAS or OpenMediaVault, both of which are also compatible with the N2.

Given that UnRAID runs off a USB boot drive, users can easily swap out the OS if required, allowing greater flexibility in long-term system customization.

The inclusion of a 30-day trial before activating the license means users can test the system before committing to a paid software platform, a welcome addition for those considering different configurations.

Lincstation N2 NAS – Final Verdict

The Lincstation N2 NAS is a solid upgrade over its predecessor, the N1, offering better connectivity, improved cooling, and more efficient hardware. The inclusion of 10GbE networking makes it a more appealing option for users who require higher data transfer speeds, and the passive and active cooling improvements ensure better thermal regulation under sustained workloads. With support for four M.2 NVMe SSDs and two SATA SSDs, the N2 provides flexible storage options, allowing users to build a high-speed, all-flash NAS setup. The Intel N100 processor and 16GB LPDDR5 memory deliver decent performance for most home and small business NAS applications, but the non-upgradeable memory may be a limiting factor for more demanding users. The compact, efficient design makes it an ideal NAS for those looking for a balance between power efficiency and performance.

That being said, the N2 does have a few drawbacks that may impact users looking for greater expandability. The lack of PCIe expansion slots means users cannot add additional NICs or storage controllers, making it less versatile compared to some competing NAS solutions. Additionally, while the 10GbE port is a significant upgrade, it is limited by PCIe bandwidth constraints, meaning users may not be able to fully utilize its maximum throughput in all scenarios. The USB connectivity options are decent, but having only one high-speed USB-C 10Gbps port may feel restrictive for those wanting multiple fast external connections. Furthermore, the reliance on a barrel-type power connector instead of USB-C is another missed opportunity for modernization.

Overall, the Lincstation N2 NAS remains a good choice for UnRAID users looking for an affordable, high-speed, all-flash NAS solution. It provides great energy efficiency, a streamlined setup process, and a solid mix of connectivity options. While it lacks some scalability features, for most home and small business users, it offers a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and ease of use. If Lincplus continues refining their NAS lineup, future iterations with more robust networking, storage expandability, and minor refinements to cooling and connectivity could make it a standout competitor in the small NAS market.

Pros and Cons of the Lincstation N2 NAS

Pros:

10GbE networking for high-speed transfers
Compact, silent, and power-efficient
Includes 1 Year UnRAID license for easy setup
Supports four M.2 NVMe SSDs and two SATA SSDs
Low power consumption and passive+active cooling
Improved design over the N1 with better airflow

Cons:

Limited PCIe lanes affecting 10GbE throughput
Non-upgradeable RAM (fixed 16GB LPDDR5)
N100 CPU has very recently seen a refresh towards the N150
Uses a barrel-type power adapter instead of USB-C

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CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS Review – Intel N3 i3 in Your Pocket?

Rob Andrews

14 février 2025 à 18:00

Review of the CWWK x86 P6 Mini SSD NAS Review

The CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS is a compact, all-flash server aimed at home lab enthusiasts and small businesses seeking high-speed storage in a small form factor. It features four M.2 NVMe slots, dual 2.5GbE ports, and support for up to 48GB DDR5 memory, offering impressive capabilities for its size. Available in two configurations, the quad-core Intel N150 model and the octa-core Intel N355 model, it aims to balance affordability and performance. This review covers the design, hardware, storage, performance tests, and overall value of the N355 model. Compact and highly portable, the P6 is marketed toward users who need a small but capable server for virtualization, containerized apps, and media streaming. With support for up to four M.2 NVMe drives, it caters to users focused on high-speed, flash-based storage rather than traditional hard drives. However, its PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes per M.2 slot and lack of 10GbE raise questions about its potential bottlenecks.

The P6 is priced competitively at $195 for the N150 version and $315 for the N355 version, placing it in a niche between DIY NAS solutions and more expensive pre-built systems. Despite its compact size, it promises a multi-core processor, virtualization support, and dual 2.5GbE connectivity, making it appealing to users with small-scale but demanding workloads. However, users should be prepared for some limitations typical of compact systems, such as limited expandability and port options. Let’s discuss the P6.

Component	Details
Processor (SoC)	Intel Twin Lake SoC (Two Options): – Intel N150: Quad-core, up to 3.6 GHz (Turbo), 6MB cache, 24EU Intel UHD graphics (1.0 GHz), 6W TDP – Intel N355: Octa-core, up to 3.9 GHz (Turbo), 6MB cache, 32EU Intel UHD graphics (1.35 GHz), 15W TDP
Memory	1x SO-DIMM DDR5 4800 MHz (up to 48GB, Non-ECC)
Storage Slots	4x M.2 M-Key 2280 NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0 x1 per slot)
Additional Expansion	1x M.2 E-Key 2230 slot for Wi-Fi 6/7 modules
SATA Support	2x JFPC1 Ribbon Cable Connector (for SATA drives via adapter)
Video Output	2x HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz)
Networking	2x 2.5GbE RJ45 (Intel i226V controllers)
USB Ports	2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)
Power Supply	12V/5A via 5.5/2.5mm Barrel Connector (60W adapter included)
BIOS/UEFI Features	AMI BIOS/UEFI with Auto Power On, Wake-on-LAN (WoL), PXE Boot
Cooling	Integrated aluminum heat sink with base-level fan; Optional external top-mounted fan (USB-powered)
Chassis Material	Aluminum Alloy (entire enclosure)
Dimensions	100 x 100 x 58.5 mm
Weight	Approx. 1.2 kg
Operating Temperature	-10°C to 75°C
Humidity Range	10%–90% RH (non-condensing)

Where to Buy?

CWWK x86 P6 NVMe NAS ($195-315 AliExpress) – HERE
CWWK x86 P6 NVMe NAS ($160 AliExpress) – HERE
DIY N355 NAS Products ($254-349 Amazon) – HERE

CWWK x86 P6 N355 SSD NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

he CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS offers a compact and capable option for users seeking a small-scale, flash-based server with support for multiple VMs, containers, and media streaming. The Intel N355 model performs well under load, handling three VMs simultaneously while maintaining reasonable power consumption of 34–35W. SSD speeds were solid for a PCIe 3.0 x1 setup, reaching around 780 MB/s read and 690 MB/s write per drive, though aggregate speeds across four drives were limited to 450–520 MB/s. Cooling is generally effective, with CPU temperatures peaking at 40°C, but NVMe SSDs required improved thermal pads to keep below 55°C under load. Noise levels remained moderate, between 35–38 dBA depending on fan usage. The inclusion of SATA support via JFPC1 ribbon cables, while unconventional, offers an additional expansion route, though BIOS adjustments may be needed for full compatibility. Dual 2.5GbE ports support link aggregation but limit network throughput compared to 10GbE options, which can only be added via an M.2 to 10GbE adapter, sacrificing a storage slot. The two USB ports are restrictive for those needing additional connectivity. Overall, the P6 delivers good multi-purpose performance in a compact form factor, but its PCIe lane limitations, limited USB ports, and barrel power input may be drawbacks for some users. It is a suitable choice for those seeking a small, efficient, and configurable NAS, provided they understand its hardware constraints.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.8

PROS

Compact and portable design (100x100x58.5 mm, aluminum chassis)

Good multi-VM performance (three VMs with under 50% CPU utilization)

Dual 2.5GbE ports with link aggregation (~550 MB/s combined throughput)

Reasonable power efficiency (18W idle, 34–35W under heavy load)

Expandable via M.2 adapters (supports M.2 to PCIe, OCuLink, or 10GbE)

Effective CPU cooling (40°C peak with aluminum heat sinks and fan)

Smooth media streaming (1080p, 4K, and 8K playback on Plex)

Supports up to 48GB DDR5 RAM (high capacity for VMs and containers)

CONS

Limited PCIe bandwidth (PCIe 3.0 x1 per M.2 slot)

Only two USB ports (restricts peripheral and OS drive options)

Barrel power input (no USB-C for power delivery)

SATA support via JFPC1 cable requires adjustments and may need BIOS tweaks

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CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Design

The CWWK P6 is remarkably compact, measuring 100 x 100 x 58.5 mm, and built with an all-aluminum alloy chassis, which doubles as a heat sink. Weighing approximately 1.2 kg, the unit has a solid, durable feel.

The top panel functions as a large heat sink for the SSDs, while the bottom panel houses a CPU fan and aluminum heat sink.

The cooling system is effective but relies on passive dissipation for the SSDs unless the optional external fan, included in the package, is attached via USB.

The power input uses a 12V/5A barrel connector, which is disappointing for users expecting USB-C. Given the small size and relatively low power draw, USB-C with Power Delivery (PD) could have been a modern and convenient solution.

The barrel connector feels like an outdated choice and limits power supply flexibility. On a positive note, the included 60W power adapter is compact and efficient.

The port selection is limited, with only two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (10 Gbps) and two HDMI 2.0 outputs supporting up to 4K 60Hz displays. Users planning to use UnRAID or similar OSes via USB may quickly find the two ports insufficient, especially if they need one for a keyboard or KVM switch.

Additionally, the M.2 E-key slot for Wi-Fi 6 or 7 is present, but no antenna kit or Wi-Fi module is included, adding extra cost for wireless connectivity.

The included thermal pads for the M.2 drives are extremely thin, providing minimal heat dissipation.

During sustained workloads, SSD temperatures rose above 65°C, but using third-party thermal pads reduced peak temperatures by approximately 10°C, enhancing performance stability.

The optional external fan, which attaches to the top panel via USB, helps reduce SSD temperatures during sustained workloads but at the cost of a higher noise level.

Overall, the design feels solid but because they have had to cram a lot into a small space, the potential for airflow in key areas might be pretty poor (hence the included optional USB fan). While the cooling solution is effective, port limitations, poor-quality thermal pads, and the choice of barrel power input are significant drawbacks.

Despite these issues, the compact size and all-metal construction make it an attractive option for users needing a small yet powerful NAS.

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The CWWK P6 is powered by Intel Twin Lake processors, offering two configurations: the quad-core N150 (up to 3.6 GHz, 6W TDP) and the octa-core N355 (up to 3.9 GHz, 15W TDP). The N355 version tested here features eight cores, 32EU Intel UHD graphics at 1.35 GHz, and a TDP of 15W, making it more suitable for virtualization, container workloads, and media streaming.

The system uses one SO-DIMM DDR5 slot, supporting up to 48GB of non-ECC DDR5 4800 MHz RAM. While the single-channel configuration may reduce memory performance, the high RAM ceiling is useful for running multiple VMs or containers. The absence of ECC memory support may be a concern for users seeking data integrity in a server environment, but again – at this price it is tough to be overly critical about this here.

For networking, the P6 includes two 2.5GbE ports, controlled by Intel i226V controllers, supporting SMB multichannel and link aggregation. During testing, the 2.5GbE ports achieved up to 550 MB/s combined throughput with link aggregation. However, the lack of 10GbE is a missed opportunity, given the PCIe limitations on M.2 throughput, which could benefit from faster networking.

A M.2 E-key slot is provided for Wi-Fi 6 or 7 modules, but no module or antenna is included. Additionally, while the motherboard supports auto power-on, Wake-on-LAN (WoL), and PXE boot, the BIOS lacks some advanced settings found on other DIY NAS boards – however the N355 CPU itself is already getting stretched pretty thin here, so the scope for modification is pretty slim anyway to be honest.

One notable advantage is the expandability of the M.2 slots, which can be used for more than just storage. Users can install M.2 to PCIe adapters for 10GbE network cards, PCIe expansion cards, or even OCuLink adapters for external storage enclosures. This flexibility allows the P6 to be tailored for different use cases, such as adding 10GbE for faster networking or expanding with a PCIe card for additional functions. This feature partially offsets the lack of built-in 10GbE and adds versatility to the system.

RECOMMENDED M.2 ADAPTERS

M.2 to 10GbE Adapter – BUY HERE – REVIEW HERE

M.2 to PCIe Card Slot Adapter – BUY HERE – REVIEW HERE

M.2 to Oculink 4i Adapter – BUY HERE – REVIEW HERE

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Storage

The CWWK P6 is built around four M.2 NVMe 2280 slots (PCIe 3.0 x1), supporting high-speed, flash-based storage. Each slot has a maximum theoretical throughput of around 800 MB/s, which is suitable for general NAS tasks but limits RAID performance.

The absence of screw holes for shorter M.2 sizes means users must use full-length 2280 drives.

The included thermal pads are surprisingly thin and for an all flash system, a little underwhelming, but given the 3×1 speed of each bay, just how hot each SSD will be getting is debatable.

The four M.2 NVMe SSD Bays are mounted on a a sister board that is connected on it’s underside with a 40 pin connector into ANOTHER m.2 NVMe PCB that is in a single m.2 2280 SSD slot on the lower micro motherboard.

The M.2’s profile is still being investigated, but it IS a novel way of getting around the limitations of the base N150/N355 PCU Lanes and physical distribution that a single board would have needed to counter/work-around.

During sustained workloads, SSD temperatures rose above 65°C, but using third-party thermal pads reduced peak temperatures by approximately 10°C, enhancing performance stability. The optional top-mounted fan offers additional cooling but increases noise levels.

The P6 includes an unusual SATA expansion option using JFPC1 ribbon cables connected to the motherboard. While the implementation is unconventional, it is understandable given the small internal space constraints.

During testing, these SATA drives were detected in the BIOS but not recognized by the OS, indicating possible BIOS or driver issues.

It is worth noting that the inclusion of SATA connectivity is a welcome option for users needing low-cost storage expansion, though it may require further configuration.

As mentioned earlier, the lack of an internal PCIe slot limits storage expansion of course. However, users can convert an M.2 slot to a 10GbE network card, PCIe expansion, or even OCuLink storage expansion using third-party adapters. This flexibility is a notable advantage but comes at the cost of losing an M.2 storage slot.

Overall, the storage system is functional but limited by PCIe lane bottlenecks and poor SATA support implementation. Users seeking high-speed RAID configurations may be disappointed, but for NVMe-based storage pools, virtualization, and caching, the P6 performs well within its hardware constraints.

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Tests & Performance

In this section, we evaluate the CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS based on its SSD speeds, power consumption, noise levels, and thermal performance. Using the N355 octa-core model with four M.2 NVMe SSDs, we tested its performance under different workloads, including file transfers, virtualization, and media streaming. Even initial VM testing was pretty promising, when I ran three Windows 10 VMs, at 1 Core and 2GB Memory – there was still plenty of H/WW remaining to play with and each VM ran well. Just keep in mind that you only have 8 threads (i.e 8 vCPU) to assign.

We also measured how efficiently the system manages power and heat under load. Our tests aim to give a clear, practical understanding of what users can expect from the P6, particularly for tasks like running small scale containers or virtual machines or acting as a domestic/home/family media server, while considering its design limitations, such as PCIe lane constraints and cooling efficiency.

SSD Performance:

In our tests with four M.2 NVMe SSDs (PCIe 3.0 x1):

Single SSD (Sequential): 780–790 MB/s (Read), 690 MB/s (Write)

Four SSDs Simultaneously: 450–520 MB/s aggregate throughput

The x1 PCIe lanes per slot are the primary bottleneck, but single-drive speeds are acceptable for general NAS usage. Performance drops significantly in RAID configurations due to lane sharing.

Power Consumption:

Measured during testing:

Idle (No Drives): 18W
All Four SSDs Under Load: 31–32W
Three VMs with Disk Activity: 34–35W

Power efficiency is reasonable, and the 15W TDP N355 processor delivers a good balance of performance and efficiency.

Noise Levels:

Base Fan Only (Peak): 35–36 dBA
With Optional Top Fan: 38 dBA (noticeable but not disruptive)
The top fan is audibly louder, but effective for SSD cooling, especially during sustained workloads.

Temperature Measurements:

CPU Peak (VMs & SSD Reads): 40°C (with fan)
SSD Peak (Stock Thermal Pads): 65°C
SSD Peak (Improved Thermal Pads): 55°C

The large aluminum heat sinks and internal fan handle CPU heat effectively, but a lot of this comes down to the CPU being already low-powered to start with, as well as the speed limit of 3×1 on each bay – sorry to keep repeating this, but it’s important!). Early PLEX performance testing was very good! I tested the streaming of a 100Mb 1080p file, a 60Mb 4K HEVC File and an 8K File. I will be going into more detail on the PLEX performance (especially the hardware transcoding later on, via PLEX PASS) later on via the YouTube channel, but my early testing was very good and the CPU use on these single connections was very good (even with Software transcoding too).

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Verdict & Conclusion

The CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS offers a compact and efficient solution for flash-based storage, virtualization, and media streaming, with strong CPU performance and reasonable power consumption. It excels in scenarios such as running multiple VMs, hosting containers, and acting as a Plex server, thanks to its Intel N355 processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. However, it has notable drawbacks, including limited PCIe lanes, unconventional SATA expansion, and only two USB ports, which may restrict expandability. That said, the SATA implementation, while unusual, is understandable given the space limitations of the compact design, and it provides an option for low-cost storage expansion. Additionally, the barrel power input instead of USB-C feels outdated, and thermal pads provided for SSDs are insufficient, necessitating upgrades for long-term reliability.

The lack of 10GbE networking is a missed opportunity, but users can add 10GbE via M.2 adapters, albeit at the cost of an M.2 slot. The N355 version offers significantly better performance for multi-tasking and VMs compared to the N150 version, making it worth the additional cost for power users . In conclusion, the CWWK x86 P6 is best suited for tech-savvy users who are comfortable with DIY upgrades and minor hardware adjustments. It offers good value for VM hosting, containerization, and high-speed storage tasks, provided users are aware of its limitations and willing to work around them.

Pros	Cons
Compact and portable – Small 100x100x58.5 mm size with a durable aluminum chassis.	Limited PCIe bandwidth – PCIe 3.0 x1 per M.2 slot restricts maximum SSD performance.
Good multi-VM performance – Handled three VMs with low CPU utilization (under 50%) and stable performance.	Only two USB ports – Limited connectivity for peripherals and OS boot drives.
Dual 2.5GbE ports – Supports link aggregation for up to ~550 MB/s throughput.	Barrel power input – No USB-C for power delivery, limiting modern power supply options.
Reasonable power efficiency – 18W idle, 34–35W under heavy load with four SSDs and three VMs.	SATA support requires adjustments – JFPC1 cable solution is unconventional and may need BIOS tweaks.
Expandable via M.2 adapters – Supports M.2 to PCIe, OCuLink, or 10GbE adapters.
Effective cooling for CPU – Integrated aluminum heat sinks and internal fan kept CPU below 40°C under load.
Good media streaming performance – Smooth playback for 1080p, 4K, and 8K files during Plex tests.
Support for up to 48GB DDR5 RAM – High memory capacity for VMs and containers.

Where to Buy?

CWWK x86 P6 NVMe NAS ($195-315 AliExpress) – HERE
CWWK x86 P6 NVMe NAS ($160 AliExpress) – HERE
DIY N355 NAS Products ($254-349 Amazon) – HERE

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

Terramaster F6-424 NAS Review Max

Rob Andrews

8 février 2025 à 18:00

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – LET’S GET SERIOUS?

Update – The Terramaster F6-424 Max NAS is NOW Available HERE on Amazon for $999

As TerraMaster continues to push the boundaries of affordable yet high-performance NAS devices, the F6-424 Max stands out as a flagship model designed to cater to the needs of power users, small businesses, and home lab enthusiasts. Released in September 2024 at a price point of $999.99, the F6-424 Max builds upon TerraMaster’s reputation for offering hardware that rivals premium competitors like Synology and QNAP but at a more accessible price. At the heart of this NAS is an Intel Core i5-1235U, a 10-core, 12-thread CPU that promises to handle everything from virtualization to media transcoding with ease. Coupled with dual M.2 NVMe slots, two 10GbE network ports, and support for up to 64GB of DDR5 memory, the F6-424 Max is aimed at users who require not just storage but also serious compute power.

Before diving into the detailed review of the F6-424 Max, it’s essential to understand how this model compares to its siblings, the smaller capacity F6-424, F4-424 and the F4-424 Pro. Each of these NAS units targets different segments of the market, from home users and enthusiasts to businesses requiring more power. Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between the F6-424, F6-424 Pro, and F6-424 Max.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The TerraMaster F6-424 Max is a robust 6-bay NAS system that offers a powerful mix of features and flexibility for a wide range of tasks. Powered by the Intel i5-1235U CPU with 10 cores and 12 threads, the F6-424 Max excels at resource-intensive applications such as Plex media streaming, 4K hardware transcoding, and virtual machine hosting. Its dual M.2 NVMe slots running at PCIe Gen 4 speeds significantly improve storage performance, especially when used for caching, while the two 10GbE ports offer high-speed networking environments, allowing for 20Gbps throughput via link aggregation.

In terms of software, TOS 6 brings notable improvements, although it still lags behind the more polished ecosystems of Synology DSM and QNAP QTS. That said, TerraMaster’s continuous software evolution with each new version of TOS ensures that users have access to more robust tools and security features. For its price point of $999, the F6-424 Max is a compelling option for those seeking high-performance NAS solutions with scalability in mind. While the Pro model offers competitive performance, the Max takes it a step further with advanced networking, making it ideal for environments where speed is a priority.

SOFTWARE - 6/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.0

PROS

Powerful Hardware: Intel i5-1235U with 10 cores and 12 threads for resource-heavy tasks.

Dual 10GbE Ports: High-speed networking capabilities with link aggregation for up to 20Gbps, ideal for large file transfers.

PCIe Gen 4 NVMe Support: Two M.2 NVMe slots offering exceptional performance for caching or additional high-speed storage.

Efficient Cooling: The large 120mm fan ensures quiet and effective cooling, making it suitable for home and office environments.

Improved TOS 6 Software: Enhancements in GUI, backup tools, and overall security bring TOS closer to its competitors.

CONS

Higher Price Tag: At just under $1K, it’s more expensive than TerraMaster’s other models, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

No PCIe Expansion: Lack of a PCIe slot limits potential for future upgrades, such as adding 10GbE cards or more M.2 drives.

Presentation: The software has improved a lot, but still feels inconsistent in places compared with alternatives from brands such as Synology and QNAP.

Where to Buy a Product
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			VISIT RETAILER ➤

Where to Buy?

Terramaster F6-424 Max ($899 Amazon) – HERETerramaster F6-424 Max ($799 Aliexpress) – HERE

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Hardware TL;DR

The F6-424 Max is equipped with some of the most powerful hardware seen in a domestic 6-bay NAS from TerraMaster. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key hardware components:

Component	Specification
Processor	Intel i5-1235U (10 cores, 12 threads, 1.3GHz base, 4.4GHz boost)
Memory	8GB DDR5 (expandable up to 64GB)
Drive Bays	6x 3.5”/2.5” SATA (hot-swappable, up to 144TB total)
M.2 NVMe Slots	2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 (for caching or additional storage)
Networking	2x 10GbE RJ45 (supports link aggregation)
USB Ports	2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
HDMI	1x HDMI 2.0 (4K at 60Hz)
Cooling	1x 120mm fan (smart cooling system with multiple speeds)
Power Consumption	35W (idle), 70W (under full load)
Chassis Dimensions	222 x 179 x 154 mm
Weight	3.6 kg

The Intel i5-1235U is the real powerhouse of the F6-424 Max, combining two performance cores with eight efficiency cores for excellent multi-threaded performance. Whether you’re running virtual machines, AI workloads, or 4K Plex streams, this processor handles it all with ease. The 8GB of DDR5 memory is a solid starting point, but the system can support up to 64GB for users with more demanding needs.

Another key hardware feature is the dual 10GbE network ports, which offer more than just fast networking—they enable link aggregation to provide up to 20Gbps of network throughput. This makes the F6-424 Max perfect for video editing teams, large backups, or any environment requiring high-speed network transfers.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Chassis Design

The F6-424 Max arrives in a sleek, modern chassis that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. The design has evolved significantly from TerraMaster’s older NAS models, taking cues from premium brands like Synology and QNAP. The brushed matte black plastic gives it a professional look while the ventilation design has been carefully optimized to improve airflow.

One of the standout features of the chassis is the dual 80mm fans at the rear of the unit. This fan works in tandem with the ventilated side panels, which are adorned with the TerraMaster logo, to ensure that the system remains cool even under heavy loads. The fans operate quietly, thanks to its smart cooling system, which adjusts fan speeds based on the internal temperature of the NAS.

The drive bays are hot-swappable and feature tool-less installation, making it incredibly easy to add or replace drives. The drive trays are constructed from durable plastic, and while they may feel a bit less premium compared to metal trays, they securely hold both 3.5” and 2.5” SATA drives. The trays slide effortlessly into the SATA connectors, and an intuitive push-to-lock mechanism prevents accidental ejection during operation.

On the front of the NAS, the LED indicators for system status, drive health, and network activity are discreet but easy to read. However, one minor complaint is the absence of a front-facing USB port, which could have made external drive backups or peripheral connections more convenient.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The F6-424 Max comes packed with a variety of ports that make it a versatile system for both high-speed networking and peripheral connections. The most significant feature is the dual 10GbE ports, which allow for link aggregation, effectively doubling your network bandwidth to 20Gbps when connected to a compatible switch. This level of networking is particularly useful for users handling large data transfers, 4K video editing, or multiple virtual machines.

In addition to the 10GbE ports, the NAS includes three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, two of which are Type-A and one Type-C. These ports provide data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, making them perfect for connecting external storage devices or peripherals like printers or USB drives. One of the notable improvements in this model is the inclusion of the USB Type-C port, which adds an extra layer of versatility for modern devices.

The HDMI 2.0 port supports 4K video output at 60Hz, which is ideal for users who wish to use the NAS for multimedia purposes or need a direct console for diagnostics and maintenance. However, it’s important to note that TerraMaster still hasn’t implemented a local GUI platform like QNAP’s HD Station or Asustor Portal, so the HDMI port is mostly useful for users running third-party operating systems like UnRAID or TrueNAS.

Overall, the port layout of the F6-424 Max is well-suited for high-performance environments but lacks some of the extra features—such as PCIe expansion or additional USB ports—that would make it even more versatile for advanced users.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Internal Hardware and PCIe Lanes

Opening up the F6-424 Max reveals a well-organized internal layout with some serious hardware under the hood. One of the most impressive aspects of the design is the integration of PCIe Gen 4 lanes, which significantly boosts the performance potential of the system. The Intel i5-1235U processor comes equipped with 20 PCIe lanes, and TerraMaster has used these lanes effectively to ensure that the NAS delivers exceptional I/O performance.

The two M.2 NVMe slots are directly connected via PCIe Gen 4 x4, which means that each slot can support full Gen 4 speeds of up to 8GB/s per drive. This is a massive improvement over the previous Gen 3 models, which were limited to 4GB/s. These NVMe slots can be used for caching, allowing users to speed up read/write operations when using slower mechanical drives in the main six bays, or they can be used as standalone storage pools for data-intensive tasks.

However, TerraMaster could have taken the hardware to the next level by offering a PCIe expansion slot. Many competitors in this price range, such as QNAP and Asustor, include a PCIe slot for adding additional network cards, SSDs, or Thunderbolt expansion cards. While the F6-424 Max is already a strong performer, the lack of expansion options could be a limiting factor for users who require more versatility from their NAS.

In terms of power efficiency, the F6-424 Max is highly optimized for its hardware class. Under full load, it draws around 70W, which is impressive considering the performance it delivers. The passive cooling on the Intel i5 CPU, combined with the large rear fan, ensures that the system remains cool without excessive noise or power consumption.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – TOS Software

Review of the TOS 6 software (in Beta) HERE

With the release of TOS 6, TerraMaster has made great strides in enhancing the functionality and usability of its NAS systems. TOS 6 offers improved snapshot capabilities, better backup management, and enhanced support for cloud synchronization services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Amazon S3. This means users can seamlessly synchronize their local NAS data with cloud storage, providing a layer of protection against data loss.

Another notable feature of TOS 6 is TRAID, TerraMaster’s flexible RAID configuration system, which allows users to combine disks of different sizes while still benefiting from redundancy. This is comparable to Synology’s Hybrid RAID (SHR), making it easier to expand storage in the future without being tied to identical drives. Additionally, TOS 6 supports AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring that sensitive data is protected both in transit and at rest.

However, while TOS 6 has seen significant improvements, it still lacks some of the advanced features found in Synology DSM or QNAP QTS. For example, TerraMaster’s photo management app (Terra Photos) is still in its beta phase and lacks the advanced AI-driven organization features of Synology Moments or QNAP QuMagie. Additionally, while Plex Media Server runs smoothly on the F6-424 Max, TerraMaster’s native multimedia tools are not as polished, making it less appealing for users who rely heavily on NAS-based multimedia management.

TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The TerraMaster F6-424 Max is a standout NAS system in TerraMaster’s lineup, offering impressive hardware specifications and solid performance at a price point of $999.99. For users who need high-speed data transfers, intensive compute power, and flexibility in storage configurations, the F6-424 Max is an excellent option. The combination of the Intel i5-1235U CPU, dual 10GbE ports, and PCIe Gen 4 NVMe support ensures that the NAS can handle even the most demanding tasks, whether it’s virtualization, media transcoding, or large-scale backups.

That said, when compared to the F4-424 Max, which is priced at $799.99, the Max model offers significantly more networking power and potential for speed. However, the Pro model still provides fantastic performance for most home and small office users, making it a more budget-friendly alternative for those who don’t require 10GbE or advanced NVMe functionality.

In terms of software, Synology DSM and QNAP QTS are still more evolved, offering richer multimedia experiences and better integration for business applications. However, TOS 6 continues to improve with every iteration, closing the gap between TerraMaster and these larger players. With new features like TRAID, cloud sync, and improved snapshot management, TOS is becoming more user-friendly and robust. For users prioritizing performance, flexibility, and future-proofing, the F6-424 Max is a strong contender and offers excellent value for money. While there are areas where TerraMaster could improve, such as the lack of PCIe expansion and front-facing USB ports, the F6-424 Max delivers on its promise of high performance and scalable storage solutions.


PROS	CONS
Powerful Hardware: Intel i5-1235U with 10 cores and 12 threads for resource-heavy tasks. Dual 10GbE Ports: High-speed networking capabilities with link aggregation for up to 20Gbps, ideal for large file transfers. PCIe Gen 4 NVMe Support: Two M.2 NVMe slots offering exceptional performance for caching or additional high-speed storage. Efficient Cooling: The large 120mm fan ensures quiet and effective cooling, making it suitable for home and office environments. Improved TOS 6 Software: Enhancements in GUI, backup tools, and overall security bring TOS closer to its competitors.	Higher Price Tag: At just under $1K, it’s more expensive than TerraMaster’s other models, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. No PCIe Expansion: Lack of a PCIe slot limits potential for future upgrades, such as adding 10GbE cards or more M.2 drives. Presentation: The software has improved a lot, but still feels inconsistent in places compared with alternatives from brands such as Synology and QNAP.

Click the link below to take you to your local Amazon store and where to buy the terramaster F6-424 Max NAS.

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Lincstation S1 NAS Review

Rob Andrews

5 février 2025 à 18:00

The Lincstation S1 NAS Review – REAL Turnkey UnRAID NAS?

The network-attached storage (NAS) market continues to expand, with an increasing number of brands stepping into the space with new and innovative solutions. One such emerging brand is Lincplus, known for its affordable tech offerings, including the Lincstation N1 released in 2024. Now, they are back with the Lincstation S1, a four-bay SATA NAS with additional M.2 NVMe support and an integrated UnRAID license. The S1 is designed to offer an accessible, compact, and efficient NAS solution for home users, enthusiasts, and small businesses. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s take a deep dive into this new NAS device and see how it stacks up.

Lincstation S1 NAS – Specifications

The Lincstation S1 features an Intel Alder Lake-N N97 processor, designed to balance efficiency and performance for NAS applications. It comes with 8GB of DDR5 SODIMM memory, which is upgradeable for users needing additional RAM for virtualization or heavy workloads. The system also includes 128GB of eMMC storage for the operating system, ensuring quick boot-up and consistent system performance. For primary storage, the Lincstation S1 has four SATA 3.0 bays, supporting both 3.5-inch hard drives and 2.5-inch SSDs for flexible configurations. Additionally, it has two M.2 NVMe slots, allowing users to leverage high-speed SSDs for caching or fast-access storage. These storage options make the device suitable for users looking to balance capacity, performance, and affordability in a NAS system. The system provides two 2.5GbE LAN ports, which offer faster network speeds compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet connections. It also features multiple USB ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, and two USB 2.0 for external storage and peripheral connectivity. Additionally, the inclusion of an HDMI 2.0 port enables direct output, which can be useful for multimedia applications, direct system access, or virtual machine monitoring.

Specification	Lincstation S1
Processor	Intel Alder Lake-N N97 (Quad-Core, up to 3.6GHz)
Memory	8GB DDR5 SODIMM (Upgradeable)
Storage (OS)	128GB eMMC
Storage (SATA)	4 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA III bays
Storage (NVMe)	2 x M.2 NVMe 2280 SSD slots (PCIe Gen 3 x1)
Networking	2 x 2.5GbE RJ45
USB Ports	2 x USB Type-C 10Gbps, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 2 x USB 2.0
Video Output	1 x HDMI 2.0 (4K 60Hz)
Cooling	Active Cooling System with Bottom Fan
Power Supply	120W External PSU (Barrel-type Connector)
Operating System	UnRAID (Pre-installed, 1-year license included)
Chassis Material	Metal & Plastic Hybrid
Dimensions	Compact Desktop Form Factor
Weight	TBD

Lincstation S1 NAS – Quick Conclusion

The Lincstation S1 NAS aims to provide a versatile and cost-effective NAS solution, particularly for those interested in an UnRAID-based system. It delivers solid hardware specifications, particularly with its dual M.2 NVMe support, 2.5GbE networking, and modular expandability. While the device lacks 10GbE and PCIe expansion, its efficient design and bundled UnRAID license make it an appealing option for both beginners and experienced users.

SOFTWARE - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.2

PROS

Affordable price for a hybrid HDD/SSD NAS

Includes a pre-installed UnRAID license (1-year)

Dual 2.5GbE ports for aggregated speeds up to 5GbE

Expandable RAM (8GB DDR5 SODIMM, upgradeable)

Multiple high-speed USB ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-C 10Gbps)

Supports both HDDs and SSDs for flexible storage configurations

Low power consumption and efficient cooling system

CONS

No 10GbE networking option

No PCIe slot for expansion

NVMe slots limited to PCIe Gen 3×1 speeds

UnRAID hardware control is not as straightforward as some other turnkey NAS options in the market

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

Lincstation S1 NAS – Packaging

Since the Lincstation S1 is still in its prototype stage, the final retail packaging is yet to be confirmed. However, the unit reviewed included the S1 NAS device itself, a 120W external power supply, a first-time setup guide, and an UnRAID license scratch card. While the absence of an Ethernet cable might be a minor inconvenience for some users, the packaging remains minimalist and functional.

The external power supply is well-built and designed for efficient heat dissipation, reducing the likelihood of overheating. Unlike some NAS devices with internal power supplies, the external design of the S1’s PSU helps maintain a cooler overall system temperature. This approach is particularly beneficial for compact NAS units, where space constraints and airflow management are crucial considerations.

Although the packaging is simple, it is clear that Lincplus has focused on practicality and efficiency rather than elaborate retail presentation. The compact nas box ensures minimal wasted space,. As the device nears final production, there may be some refinements in the retail kit, such as additional accessories or improvements to setup documentation. It’s still to early to judge!

Lincstation S1 NAS – Design & Build

The Lincstation S1 sports a modern and compact tower design, making it distinct from traditional horizontal NAS enclosures. It features a combination of metal and plastic construction, which enhances durability while keeping the overall weight manageable

The design also prioritizes modular access, allowing users to easily upgrade or replace components when needed.

The four SATA drive bays are located on the top of the unit, providing hot-swap functionality for easy drive replacement. On the side panel, users will find two M.2 NVMe slots, each equipped with a built-in heatsink to aid in thermal management.

The tool-less installation mechanism further simplifies the setup process, making drive installations more accessible to all users.

To support cooling efficiency, the S1 includes a large bottom-mounted system fan, which actively draws air through the chassis to maintain optimal temperatures.

The LCD panel on the front provides basic system information, though some integration issues with UnRAID still need refinement. Despite being a prototype, the build quality and design choices reflect an emphasis on functionality and long-term reliability.

Lincstation S1 NAS – Ports & Connectivity

The Lincstation S1 offers a balanced range of ports, ensuring compatibility with modern peripherals and network environments.

It features two 2.5GbE LAN ports, which allow for aggregated speeds up to 5GbE or network redundancy for failover support.

While it lacks native 10GbE, UnRAID users may be able to expand connectivity through USB-to-Ethernet or M.2 adapters.

In addition to network ports, the S1 includes multiple high-speed USB connections, supporting a variety of external storage, accessories, and direct system expansion.

With two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports, users benefit from 10Gbps data transfer speeds for high-performance storage solutions for backups and connected DAS peripherals – or even 2.5/5Gbps USB Adapters.

Two additional USB 2.0 ports are included for keyboard, mouse, or low-power peripherals.

A single HDMI 2.0 port provides 4K 60Hz output, making the device suitable for media playback, VM monitoring, or direct system management.

Users who prefer manual hardware control will appreciate the physical LED and LCD control switches on the front panel.

While these features improve accessibility, some software-based controls for LEDs and the LCD panel are still in development.

Lincstation S1 NAS – Internal Hardware & Performance

The Lincstation S1 is powered by an Intel Alder Lake-N N97 processor, a four-core chip optimized for energy efficiency and moderate workloads.

It includes 8GB of DDR5 memory, which can be upgraded via a single SODIMM slot for users who need more RAM. While ECC memory is not supported, the default configuration is sufficient for most home and prosumer workloads.

The M.2 NVMe slots operate at PCIe Gen 3×1 speeds, resulting in maximum sequential read speeds of around 1.5GB/s and write speeds of 1.3GB/s.

While this may not match enterprise-grade storage solutions, it is still a notable improvement over traditional SATA SSD speeds. Performance testing showed network throughput reaching peak speeds of 550MB/s, making 2.5GbE a strong match for the device’s storage capabilities.

Despite having modest sized CPU cooling, the S1 maintained stable operating temperatures even under sustained workloads. Idle power consumption was measured at 21–22W, with peak power draw reaching 45W under full load.

Noise levels remained within acceptable limits, fluctuating between 35–47dB depending on system activity.

Lincstation S1 NAS – Final Verdict

The Lincstation S1 NAS presents itself as a strong alternative to existing NAS solutions, offering a well-balanced blend of affordability, performance, and expandability. The inclusion of dual M.2 NVMe slots, four SATA bays, and dual 2.5GbE networking makes it suitable for home users, small businesses, and prosumers looking for an efficient storage solution. The pre-installed UnRAID license is an added bonus, making setup and system deployment more accessible, particularly for those new to NAS environments. While the Intel Alder Lake-N N97 processor and DDR5 memory provide solid performance, PCIe bandwidth limitations on the NVMe slots may restrict potential high-speed workflows. However, its low power consumption, quiet operation, and modular design make it a compelling option for users seeking a flexible and scalable NAS solution.

Despite its many strengths, the Lincstation S1 is not without limitations. The lack of 10GbE networking may be a drawback for those requiring higher network throughput, and the absence of PCIe expansion means users cannot add future network or storage controllers. Additionally, while the LCD panel offers useful system information, its integration with UnRAID remains a work in progress. Some users may also find the USB-to-Ethernet expansion workaround for additional networking cumbersome compared to native onboard support. Nonetheless, these trade-offs are expected at this price point, and for the majority of users, the included connectivity and features should be more than sufficient.

Ultimately, the Lincstation S1 NAS provides great value for its target audience, particularly for those who want an UnRAID-powered system without having to build one from scratch. It delivers decent performance, thoughtful design, and robust connectivity at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for users who want a mix of HDD and SSD storage with efficient networking. While some software refinements and additional hardware flexibility would improve the experience, the S1 is still a solid choice for home and business users alike.

Pros	Cons
Affordable price for a hybrid HDD/SSD NAS	No 10GbE networking option
Includes a pre-installed UnRAID license (1-year)	No PCIe slot for expansion
Dual 2.5GbE ports for aggregated speeds up to 5GbE	NVMe slots limited to PCIe Gen 3×1 speeds
Expandable RAM (8GB DDR5 SODIMM, upgradeable)	UnRAID Hardware control is not as straightforward as some other turnkey NAS options in the market
Multiple high-speed USB ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-C 10Gbps)
Supports both HDDs and SSDs for flexible storage configurations
Low power consumption and efficient cooling system

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions
If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

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GMKTec NucBox G9 NAS Review

Rob Andrews

3 février 2025 à 18:00

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash NAS Review – Insane Value?

The GMKtec NucBox G9 represents the brand’s first attempt to transition from the mini PC market into the world of network-attached storage (NAS). This 4-bay, SSD-only system targets entry-level users and light workloads, offering affordability and versatility in a compact form factor. Designed as a hybrid between a mini PC and a NAS, the G9 comes with pre-installed dual operating systems—Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu—and a range of features aimed at balancing performance, cost, and functionality.

At its core, the G9 is powered by Intel’s efficient N150 processor, a quad-core chip designed for low-power applications. Paired with 12GB of LPDDR5 memory, it’s clear the system isn’t intended for heavy-duty tasks but rather for home use, backups, and small-scale media hosting.

The reliance on M.2 NVMe SSDs rather than traditional hard drives results in silent operation and faster performance, albeit at a higher cost per terabyte.

While it offers an impressive range of connectivity options, the lack of 10GbE networking and its reliance on PCIe Gen 3 x2 lanes for storage performance may limit its appeal to users with more demanding needs. This review dives deep into the GMKtec NucBox G9 to explore its design, features, and performance, and determine whether it’s worth considering as an entry-level NAS.

GMKTec NucBox G9 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion / TL;DR

The GMKtec NucBox G9 is an affordable, compact NAS system that doubles as a mini PC. With support for up to 32TB of SSD storage across four M.2 NVMe slots, it’s designed for quiet and efficient operation. It’s powered by an Intel N150 processor and features dual 2.5GbE ports, multiple USB connections, and dual HDMI outputs. While the system is cost-effective, it has limitations in thermal management and external connectivity. This device is ideal for home users and small-scale setups that prioritize affordability and low noise over raw performance. However, the reliance on plastic for the chassis, lack of SSD heatsinks, and PCIe Gen 3 x2 lanes limit its appeal for heavy workloads. Users should also be prepared to configure third-party NAS software, as the pre-installed operating systems are not optimized for NAS-specific functionality. If you’re looking for an entry-level, SSD-only NAS with minimal noise and power consumption, the GMKtec NucBox G9 is a compelling option. However, power users or those requiring advanced features like 10GbE or robust thermal performance may find it restrictive. It’s a promising debut for GMKtec in the NAS market, but with room for improvement in future iterations.

BUILD QUALITY - 6/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 6/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 10/10

7.8

PROS

Affordable starting price ($150-199 for base model).

Compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.

Quiet operation, even under load, with low noise levels (

Dual 2.5GbE ports with reliable and consistent performance.

Supports up to 32TB of SSD storage with four M.2 NVMe slots.

Low power consumption (19–30W) for energy-efficient operation.

Pre-installed dual operating systems (Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu Linux).

Versatile connectivity, including USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-C, and HDMI outputs.

CONS

PCIe Gen 3 x2 lanes limit the full potential of M.2 NVMe SSDs.

Plastic chassis hinders effective heat dissipation.

No included SSD heatsinks, leading to thermal throttling risks.

Lack of 10GbE networking for higher-speed environments.

Pre-installed operating systems are not optimized for NAS functionality.

Non-upgradable 12GB LPDDR5 memory limits scalability.

Not a true turnkey NAS solution; requires user configuration.

Thermal performance under load is insufficient without additional cooling

Where to Buy? How Much?

GMKtec NucBox G9 12+1TB: HERE on Amazon
GMKtec G9 12+512GB: HERE on Amazon
GMKtec G9 12+2TB Model : HERE on Amazon

Component	Details
CPU	Intel N150 (Quad-Core, 3.6GHz)
Memory	12GB LPDDR5-4800
Storage	4 x M.2 NVMe (PCIe Gen 3 x2)
Networking	2 x 2.5GbE LAN
Ports	3 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C (data & video), 1 x USB-C (power), 2 x HDMI (4K 60Hz)
Pre-Installed OS	Windows 11 Pro, Ubuntu Linux
Power Consumption	19-30W
Chassis Material	Plastic
Price	Starting at $169 ($216 for 1TB SSD Model)

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Design

The GMKtec NucBox G9 features a compact, lightweight plastic chassis, which contributes to its affordability but comes with certain drawbacks. While the design is minimalistic and functional, the reliance on plastic for the panel covering the four M.2 NVMe slots raises concerns about thermal performance. Metal would have been a better choice to aid heat dissipation, particularly in an SSD-only system where temperatures can rise quickly under load.

Inside, the system accommodates up to four M.2 NVMe SSDs, each operating at PCIe Gen 3 x2 speeds. This configuration supports up to 32TB of total storage, providing flexibility for users with varying needs.

However, the Gen 3 x2 limitation caps throughput at 2GB/s per drive, which may bottleneck performance in high-demand scenarios. While the system can handle basic RAID configurations, its performance in RAID setups is limited by the hardware.

The absence of heatsinks for the SSDs is a notable oversight. Although pre-configured models with SSDs include basic heatsinks, users adding their own drives will need to invest in aftermarket cooling solutions. The plastic panel covering the storage bays further exacerbates heat dissipation challenges, as it traps heat rather than dispersing it effectively. This is really only noticeable when the system was a especially high use, but it did give me pause for thought. (Thermal test with HikMicro Mini v2 Thermal Camera on Amazon HERE )

Despite these limitations, the G9’s storage configuration is impressive for its price range. SSD-only setups ensure silent operation and faster performance compared to traditional hard drives, making it ideal for environments where noise and energy efficiency are priorities.

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Connections

The G9 offers a solid selection of connectivity options for a device in its class. It includes two 2.5GbE LAN ports, allowing users to link aggregate bandwidth or set up separate networks. During testing, these ports easily reached their full potential, delivering consistent performance for both independent and linked configurations. However, the absence of 10GbE networking may deter users with more demanding network requirements.

In addition to networking, the system provides four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports—three Type-A and one Type-C—offering up to 10Gbps of data transfer per port. The USB-C port doubles as a video output, complementing the two HDMI 2.0 ports that support 4K resolution at 60Hz. These features make the G9 versatile for dual roles as a NAS and a lightweight desktop workstation.

Power input is handled via a dedicated USB-C port connected to an external 65W power supply. This compact power solution aligns with the G9’s low-power design, but it also means there’s no internal power redundancy, which might concern users deploying the device in mission-critical environments.

While the ports and connections are adequate for most use cases, the lack of expandability—such as PCIe slots for adding 10GbE or other features—limits its future-proofing. Users seeking advanced connectivity options may need to consider alternatives or rely on external adapters.

Where to Buy?

IOCREST M.2 to 10GbE NIC Adapter Kit – $67 HERE – $81 HERE
Check Amazon HERE

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Internal Hardware

The Intel N150 processor is the heart of the GMKtec NucBox G9. This quad-core chip operates at a base clock of 1GHz, with a boost clock of 3.6GHz. Designed for efficiency, it features a 6W TDP, making it well-suited for low-power applications like home NAS setups. While not a powerhouse, it handles light workloads effectively, including file sharing, backups, and media streaming.

Feature	Details
Architecture	Intel Twice Lake
Cores / Threads	4 Cores / 4 Threads
Base Clock Speed	1.0 GHz
Boost Clock Speed	Up to 3.6 GHz
TDP (Thermal Design Power)	6W
Cache	6MB Intel Smart Cache
Memory Support	LPDDR5-4800, DDR4-3200 (dual-channel)
Graphics	Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
Graphics Frequency	Up to 1.0 GHz
Max Display Resolution	4K @ 60Hz (via HDMI/DisplayPort)
PCIe Version	Gen 3 (Up to 9 lanes)
Instruction Set	64-bit
Special Features	Intel VT-x, VT-d, AES-NI, Intel Speed Shift
Manufacturing Process	10nm Intel Process
Release Date	Q1 2025

Paired with 12GB of LPDDR5-4800 memory, the system offers a decent amount of RAM for its intended purposes. However, the memory is soldered onto the board, meaning it cannot be upgraded. This limitation may frustrate users who anticipate scaling up their usage over time. The LPDDR5 memory’s efficiency helps offset this drawback by delivering faster performance compared to older DDR4 standards.

Storage capabilities are impressive, with support for up to four M.2 NVMe drives. These slots operate at PCIe Gen 3 x2, which, while adequate for most entry-level NAS tasks, may bottleneck performance in more demanding scenarios.

The system’s internal hardware also includes an eMMC drive for the pre-installed operating systems, but its limited 64GB capacity may prompt many users to replace it or install a new OS on an M.2 SSD.

The hardware design prioritizes cost-efficiency, which is evident in the lack of ECC memory support and limited thermal management. While these decisions align with the device’s target audience, they reinforce its position as an entry-level solution rather than a high-performance NAS. In other words – KEEP YOUR EXPECTATIONS RELATIVE!!!

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Software

The G9 is marketed as a “dual-system” NAS, shipping with Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu Linux pre-installed. This flexibility allows users to operate the device as a mini PC or a lightweight NAS out of the box. However, neither OS is tailored for NAS-specific functionality, and users seeking advanced features like RAID management or robust file sharing will need to install third-party software.

Popular NAS operating systems such as TrueNAS, Unraid, or OpenMediaVault are compatible with the G9, but they require manual installation and configuration. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it may deter users unfamiliar with NAS software or those seeking a plug-and-play solution. Ubuntu, while functional, lacks the intuitive tools and features found in dedicated NAS systems.

The inclusion of a Windows 11 Pro license is a welcome addition for users who may want to use the device as a general-purpose PC. However, this feature feels somewhat misplaced in a NAS-focused product, as most users will likely replace the OS with something more suited to storage tasks. Additionally, the 64GB eMMC drive hosting the OS is insufficient for many use cases, necessitating an upgrade to an M.2 SSD.

Overall, the software experience is mixed. While the dual OS option adds versatility, the lack of NAS-specific tools and reliance on user-driven configuration highlight the device’s limitations as a turnkey NAS solution.

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Performance & Tests

In performance testing, the G9’s storage read speeds peaked at 1.4–1.5GB/s per drive, which is respectable for its hardware. Write speeds were less consistent, averaging 400–500MB/s under sustained load.

Interestingly (and still being checked into since this review was started), the system features multiple ASM1182e Gen 2 packet switches to carve up the downstream of the PCIe lanes internally (understandable for a modest CPU to require PCIe switches to allow for so many M.2s), but I suspect that THIS is why the write performance was so low. Still checking and will update ASAP here and/or in the video.

The dual 2.5GbE ports delivered solid external performance, easily saturating their bandwidth in both independent and aggregated configurations.

Thermal management proved to be a challenge. Without included SSD heatsinks and with a plastic panel covering the storage bays, temperatures rose quickly under load. Idle temperatures were manageable, but sustained use resulted in throttling, emphasizing the need for aftermarket cooling solutions. This is especially important for users planning to use the device in environments with higher ambient temperatures.

Noise levels were impressively low, even with all three fans running. During idle, the system operated nearly silently, while under load, noise levels remained below 40dB. Power consumption ranged from 19–20W at idle to 28–30W under load, making it an efficient option for users concerned about energy usage.

Overall, the G9 performs well for an entry-level system but struggles in scenarios requiring sustained performance. Its thermal limitations and PCIe bottlenecks make it better suited for light to moderate workloads rather than demanding applications.

GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash Review – Conclusion & Verdict

The GMKtec NucBox G9 is an ambitious first step for the brand into the NAS market, blending elements of mini PCs with network-attached storage. Its compact, lightweight design, combined with the use of M.2 NVMe SSDs, makes it an efficient, quiet solution for home users or small-scale deployments. With a competitive starting price of $150-199 and dual operating systems pre-installed, it offers value for users who are comfortable setting up their own NAS software. The inclusion of dual 2.5GbE ports, multiple USB connections, and support for up to 32TB of SSD storage ensures it caters to a wide variety of use cases, from media hosting to backups. However, its reliance on plastic for the chassis and the absence of SSD heatsinks highlight thermal management as a weak point, making it less suitable for sustained or intensive workloads without additional investment in cooling solutions.

While the device performs well in basic NAS tasks, its hardware limitations, such as PCIe Gen 3 x2 slots and a non-upgradable memory configuration, may leave power users wanting more. The lack of 10GbE networking and limited built-in NAS software tools further cement its position as an entry-level system rather than a fully-featured solution. Ultimately, the NucBox G9 is a solid choice for users seeking an affordable, low-power NAS for quiet environments but less ideal for those with advanced needs or performance-intensive requirements. As a debut NAS product, it succeeds in offering value within its scope while leaving room for refinement in future iterations.

Pros	Cons
Affordable starting price ($150-199 for base model)	Limited to PCIe Gen 3 x2 lanes for M.2 NVMe slots
Compact and lightweight design	Plastic chassis reduces thermal efficiency
Quiet operation, even under load	No SSD heatsinks included
Dual 2.5GbE ports with solid performance	Lacks 10GbE networking
Supports up to 32TB of SSD storage	Pre-installed OS (Windows/Ubuntu) not NAS-optimized
Low power consumption (19–30W)	Non-upgradable 12GB LPDDR5 memory
Pre-installed dual operating systems	Not a true turnkey NAS solution
Flexible connectivity options (USB, HDMI, etc.)	Thermal throttling under heavy loads

Where to Buy?

GmkTec G9 NAS (AliExpress) – HERE
GMKTec NucBox G9 NAS (Amazon) – HERE

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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]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

How to Run UnRAID on Your Terramaster NAS (2025 Guide)

Rob Andrews

31 janvier 2025 à 18:00

How to Install UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS Drive in 15mins

Note – Terramaster have changed their policy with regard to installation of 3rd Party OS’ on their systems. This change now means that running UnRAID on your Terramaster NAS will NOT invalidate your 2/3 Year (device dependent) hardware warranty. However they will not support you on a software level and if you damage/corrupt the internal USB that bootloads the TOS OS, or mount your TOS storage in UnRAID and/or render it unusable in TOS, they will not be able to support you in reversing it. So, BACKUP YORU DATA/TOS CONFIG if you think you will be returning to the default OS setup down the road!

Aong the many Network Attached Storage (NAS) software options discussed online, one of the most underrated yet highly effective solutions in the DIY server community is UnRAID. Like many great innovations, UnRAID was born out of necessity—developed by a software engineer looking to solve a personal challenge. In the early 2000s, the primary concern was efficiently storing, accessing, and backing up large amounts of media. While RAID solutions existed, they came with rigid configurations, limited flexibility, and performance overheads that made 24/7 operation difficult for average users.

Fast forward to 2025, and while the NAS software market is filled with a variety of solutions, UnRAID has maintained a strong following among users who prioritize flexibility and customization. Unlike traditional RAID setups, UnRAID provides a unique approach to storage management, offering users greater control over their data, media, applications, and even virtual desktops. Its appeal extends to media enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals handling large data workloads, thanks to its ability to run on virtually any combination of hardware. This open-ended hardware compatibility grants users the freedom to build and optimize their systems to fit their exact needs.

So, where does TerraMaster NAS fit into the picture? At first glance, TerraMaster might seem like a traditional plug-and-play NAS solution, bundling hardware with its proprietary TOS operating system. However, many users who are drawn to UnRAID’s features may lack the confidence or technical expertise to build their own NAS from scratch. This is where TerraMaster NAS stands out—it offers an excellent balance of affordability, hardware capability, and ease of modification. Not only does it provide some of the best price-to-performance hardware options in 2025, but it is also surprisingly simple to reconfigure and install alternative software like UnRAID.

Note – There is a full 30+ Min Guide showing you how to Install UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS here on the NASCompares YouTube Channel.

UnRAID Software on Terramaster NAS Hardware – What You Need?

It’s important to note that simply owning a TerraMaster NAS isn’t enough to get UnRAID up and running. The process requires a few additional steps, as well as some extra components—many of which you may already have at home or in your office. If not, a quick online purchase for around $10 should cover what you need. Before proceeding with the upgrade, be sure to check and gather the following essentials:

A Terramaster NAS Drive with (minimum) an Intel 64bit x86 CPU and a minimum 2GB of Memory (recommended 8GB+)
Download the latest stable release of UnRAID here as a system image (you will be converting this to USB later on) – DOWNLOAD
Any Data that is currently on the Terramaster NAS RAID that is mission critical to be backed up or moved (as it will be completely formatted)
A USB drive no bigger than 9mm x 17mm x 20mm ( I STRONGLY recommend THIS ONE here from Sandisk, as it is low price and incredibly small, even at 32GB, so it fits in the same USB cavity as the USB in the Terramaster NAS)

I recommend not using a USB larger than 32GB, due to the constraints of 1st party software to format larger than this in FAT32. Don’t be tempted to spend like $2 more for a 64GB, as the UnRAID installation will occupy the full USB space (as you will create a system-image-USB) and space is utterly irrelevant when the UnRAID installation is so small
A basic USB Keyboard (example HERE but really, any will do) and an HDMI Monitor (or simply any device that has an HDMI input – NOT output) such as a TV or Capture card
Hard Drive and/or SSD media (you should already have these, but just in case) for your storage
Optional – Download Advanced IP Scanner HERE, as it is a really useful tool for analyzing your network and finding your new UnRAID NAS for remote access

That is about it. Most of these (maybe not the USB drive at that physical size) you will almost certainly already have to hand.

Can I Reverse the UnRAID Installation and go back to Terramaster TOS?

Almost certainly, yes! However, there is one important caveat to keep in mind. When switching from TerraMaster’s TOS to UnRAID, the internal drives (HDDs and/or SSDs) will be reformatted to UnRAID’s storage pools, making them incompatible with TOS until reformatted again. This also applies if you decide to revert back to TOS—the transition is straightforward (simply replacing the internal USB drive and rebooting), but all data on the disks will be erased in the process.

Therefore, before making the switch between NAS operating systems, ensure that all critical data is properly backed up elsewhere. With that in mind, let’s move forward with installing UnRAID on your TerraMaster NAS.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Step 1, Download UnRAID

Head to the UnRAID website HERE and download the latest stable release of the software to your local PC, Linux or Mac system. Make sure to remember where you downloaded it. You CAN recommend the USB creator tool and that can allow you to create a system image of the UnRAID loader, but some users have highlighted that compatibility issues with some USB sticks and capacities have been highlighted. So, that is why I recommend scrolling down and downloaded the latest stable release of UnRAID to your local PC/Mac system.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Step 2, Preparing the USB

Connect the small form factor USB Drive to your system (again, this is the one I used from Sandisk) and after a few seconds, it should appear as an available USB Drive. The drive MAY need formatting (you will be prompted to do so), if that is the case, then you can format it via the system prompts and by default, it will format it to FAT32 (as long as your USB is less than 32GB). If you are not presented with a system prompt to format your USB, then you can head into My PC, or My Computer via a windows computer and right-click the drive, select ‘format’ and format it that way. IMPORTANT – Make sure in the ‘volume label’ or Drive Label field, you call the drive UNRAID (all in caps and no spacing)

If you have used the USB for other things previously, there is a chance that the drive has existing partitions in place. For that, the quickest way to completely remove any partitions is to open up the bottom-left windows system menu as normal, and then just type diskpart and open the command-line GUI tool. From there, use the command list disk to show the available drives that are connected, you will see your USB (normally disk 1 or 2, but can differ depending on your system layout and can be spotted by the storage amount). From there, type select disk # (where # is the drive number that your USB is shown as) and then type clean, which which will then remove any index structure for the drive (i.e the partitions and existing format) and then you can go back to the My Computer/My PC page and format the drive to FAT 32 as normal.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Step 4, Creating a USB Loader Image of UnRAID

Now that your USB has been prepared for the UnRAID USB setup, the next thing you need to do is move the appropriate installation files over to it. Find the .zip UnRAID Server installation you downloaded earlier on your PC/Mac system.

Then use the 1st party extractor tool or 3rd party tools such as WinRAR, then extract the contents of the downloaded .zip to the UNRAID USB drive (DO NOT CREATE ANY ADDITIONAL FOLDER STRUCTURE)!

REMEMBER! This will completely format your USB drive and any files that are on that USB will be destroyed. The process upto this point will have turned the USB into a pure boot image tool – the USB will not be usable for traditional storage again unless you completely format it again.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Setting the UnRAID USB to be a bootable Drive for the NAS

Now that you have the files extracted onto the UNRAID USB drive, you need to go into the folder structure and right-click the .bat file ‘make_bootable’, then select ‘run as Administrator’. This will open a new cmd window.

In this new CMD window, you simply need to press any button and the bootable batch file will do it’s thing in less than a second. Press any button again to exit the CMD window. Next, we need to amend a folder to ensure the drive is picked up as a bootable drive in the Terramaster mobo.

File the folder labelled ‘EFI-‘ and then rename it ‘EFI’. That’s all, there is nothing else left to change.

You can now safely remove the USB using the contextual system options on Windows/Mac systems and then prepare to install the USB inside the Terramaster NAS.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Step 6, Opening up your Terramaster NAS

This next step is going to differ depending on the Terramaster NAS Drive you are choosing to use. For this guide, I am using a 2023 generation F4-423 4-Bay NAS for this install, but the general steps are the same for any Terramaster NAS (though the location of the USB will differ) all the way up to the recently released F4-424 Max and T9-500 Pro!. With the Terramaster NAS disconnected from the network and from any power source. From there you will need to remove the external casing. In the case of most Terramaster NAS, the chassis is held by 4-6 screws on the rear of the casing that, when removed, allow you to remove the rear pannel+fans and slide the internal framework out the front of the casing (be sure to check the fans are not disconnected accidentally in this process). IMPORTANT – Remove any HDD/SSD Media during the dismantling of the Terramaster NAS chassis, as it would be so, SO easy to harm these with accidentally dropping/motion damage. No need to remember the order of the drives when you re-install them, as they are going to be formatted during the UnRAID installation.

Now, if you take a closer look at the main controller board of the Terramaster NAS (the one with network/USB ports attached, not the one that the HDD/SSD bays are on), you will spot a VERY small USB module in a tiny USB port. It should look something like this:

Now, THIS is where the default Terramaster TOS NAS software installation is kept. This is NOT where the OS actually runs from, but this is where the system checks in it’s BIOS when booting to find installation media (IF the system does not already have an active OS on the drives). Very delicately (as it IS a small USB and likely tucked in next to some other delicate components) remove the USB there is there, put it somewhere safe (as you will need this if you ever want to return the Terramster back to a TOS software system) and then replace it with the USB from earlier. THIS is why you needed a very small USB, as otherwise there is simply no way you would fit a traditional USB flash stick in the space provided.

That is pretty much it. This only other thing to factor in here is IF your Terramaster NAS does NOT have an external HDMI port. Most Terramsater NAS released after the 2020 generation have an HDMI port on the rear that although largely useless in TOS, is still accessible (something you will need for UnRAID initialization. However, some Terramaster NAS with Intel Processors have the HDMI Port located INSIDE the main chassis (much older 2018/2029 SERIES). So, IF your NAS has an inside HDMI port, you are going to need to connect an HDMI monitor to it and run the initial installation (covering in a bit) with the chassis in this open state. After installation is complete, you can close the Terramaster NAS chassis up. Otherwise, if your NAS already has an external HDMI port, you can go ahead and reconstruct the NAS chassis. Essentially, if you NAS has integrated graphics (Intel Celeron, Pentium, N100, N305, Core, etc), you will have an HDMI output.

NOTE – If you plan on upgrading the memory of your NAS to 8GB-16GB (in order to use ALL of the features of UnRAID to their fullest extent), I would recommend doing so at this point before rebuilding the physical chassis again, as many Terramaser NAS have the 2nd SODIMM memory slot in really tight locations.

UnRAID on a Terramaster NAS – Step 7, Accessing the HDMI Port and Keyboard Control

Next, you need to start getting the system ready for Initialization and Setup. I would strongly recommend running the first-time installation via a direct interface with the Terramaster NAS. You will need to connect an HDMI Monitor/TV/Capture Card to the HDMI port of the NAS, a Keyboard (and/or mouse) to an available USB port) and then connect the power/network connections to the NAS and boot the device up. After this method of connection (as it allows you to check everything is working), you can switch back to accessing the system over the network in future.

You have two options with how to access the configuration and controls.

You can use the HDMI+Keyboard if you choose for console/command level access. Alternatively (much more recommended), use a program such as Advanced IP Scanner, which is free and VERY useful anyway, or even network command prompt) to scan your local area network and find where the Terramaster with UnRAID is located (i.e it’s IP).

This IP (eg 192.168.1.113) is what you put into the URL bar of your web browser and it will load into the login GUI for UnRAID. From here you will need to use the username ‘root’ in combination with the password that you created during initialization.

And that is about it. You now have UnRAID installed as the default OS of your Terramaster NAS. Now, it is worth remembering that UnRAID does require the use of a licence key in order to use all of the storage features. The type of licence you will need will be largely based on the scale of your storage (in terms of # of drives). However, you CAN go ahead and register for a free 30 day trial of UnRAID from within the GUI and get started.

From here you can do anything and everything that his highly regarded and exceptionally low resource-consuming server software offers. Head into the Storage area and start creating pools, as well as areas for caching and lots more features.

UnRAID was recently updated to ver.6.10.3 in a stable release of the massively portable format The first thing you are going to need to do when setting up your UnRAID > Terramaster NAS server is set up your storage. Do this by heading into the storage tab and following the handy steps on the screen. After that, you can pretty much do anything on your new lightweight NAS server!

Another fantastically easy and powerful bit of DiY NAS Software you can download that is often compared against is, of course, TrueNAS Core (currently in it’s Ver 13 release) You can find out more about TrueNAS Core in my full review below that covers everything I like and dislike about the platform:

Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has been helpful in maximizing your storage and getting the most out of your NAS. If you’d like to support my work and help me continue creating in-depth guides, reviews, and tutorials on NAS and related topics, there are a few ways you can do so—any of which I’d truly appreciate! You can visit the “Support NAS Passion” page HERE to explore different ways to contribute. Another easy way to help is by using the links below when shopping for your hardware—purchasing through these links earns us a small commission (at no extra cost to you), which helps keep the site running. Not looking to contribute financially? No problem (let’s be honest, we are all a bit strapped for cash these days – preach! You can still support us by recommending this blog to a friend, sharing a link on social media, or spreading the word to others who might find it useful.

Thanks again for reading, and have a fantastic week!

Where to Buy a Product
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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 NAS Series – SHOULD YOU BUY?

Rob Andrews

27 janvier 2025 à 18:00

Should You Buy the Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 NAS Series?

UPDATE – The Lockerstor Gen 3 NAS Series is NOW AVAILABLE in a 4 Bay ($1299) and 6 Bay ($1499) configuration, with an 8-Bay and 10-Bay system coming later in 2024.

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 NAS series, which includes models ranging from the 4-Bay AS6804T, 6-Bay AS6806T, 8-Bay AS6808T, to the 10-Bay AS68010T, is designed to offer impressive performance, flexibility, and scalability for both home and business users. It packs several advanced features, including dual 10GbE ports, dual 5GbE ports, and USB 4.0, making it an attractive choice for those who need a powerhouse NAS solution. With the AMD Ryzen V3000 embedded processor, ECC memory support, and up to four M.2 NVMe slots, this series promises to deliver robust performance for demanding tasks. However, with prices starting at $1,299 for the 4-bay model, some may find the cost a bit steep compared to previous iterations or other NAS competitors. In this review, we’ll discuss five pros and five cons of the Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 series to help you decide if it’s the right NAS solution for you.

Specification	Details
CPU	AMD Ryzen V3C14 (Quad-Core, 2.3GHz base, 3.8GHz turbo)
Memory	16GB DDR5 ECC (expandable to 64GB)
Network	Dual 10GbE ports, dual 5GbE ports, USB 4.0 x2
Storage Bays	4 (AS6804T), 6 (AS6806T), 8 (AS6808T), 10 (AS68010T)
M.2 NVMe Slots	4 (Gen 4, x1)
Power Consumption	30-50W during idle/utilization
Supported Drives	SATA HDD/SSD (up to 24TB), M.2 NVMe SSDs

Reasons to Consider the Lockerstor Gen 3 Series

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 series is packed with powerful features that make it a great option for those needing high-performance storage. Let’s dive into the top five reasons to consider this NAS.

1. High-Speed Network Connectivity

The Lockerstor Gen 3 series excels in providing excellent network bandwidth options, making it ideal for users with demanding network requirements. All models in this series come equipped with dual 10GbE and dual 5GbE network ports. The 10GbE ports offer 1GB per second of data transmission speed each, while the dual 5GbE ports offer around 500-550MB per second. This impressive configuration allows users to have multiple high-speed connections simultaneously, greatly enhancing performance for tasks like large data transfers and streaming.

The potential network throughput of up to 30Gbps makes this NAS series stand out from most competitors. Whether you’re setting up point-to-point connections with other devices, connecting through a managed switch, or utilizing SMB multichannel, the Lockerstor Gen 3 can handle heavy data loads effortlessly. This connectivity makes the series suitable for businesses and power users who need reliable, high-speed access to their data.

Furthermore, the inclusion of USB 4.0/Thunderbolt 4 adds another layer of flexibility. Users can connect directly to the NAS via Thunderbolt 4-enabled devices, taking advantage of up to 20Gbps per port. This allows for fast data transfers between the NAS and connected devices, bypassing traditional network bottlenecks. Video editors and professionals dealing with large file sizes will particularly appreciate the fast, point-to-point connections provided by the USB 4.0 ports.

2. Compact Design with Low Power Consumption

Despite its impressive hardware and performance capabilities, the Lockerstor Gen 3 series maintains a relatively compact footprint. This makes it ideal for home or small office environments where space may be limited, yet high-performance storage is essential. The chassis, which is built from metal with a plastic front, ensures durability while keeping the overall size manageable. Its design includes sufficient ventilation, allowing the system to remain cool even during heavy operation.

The power consumption of the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is another noteworthy feature. During testing, the NAS consumed between 30-50 watts depending on the level of utilization, which is impressive for a system that packs so much power. Even with 4 to 10 hard drives installed and multiple NVMe SSDs operating simultaneously, the power draw remained relatively low. This efficiency makes the series a cost-effective option for users looking for powerful hardware that doesn’t come with excessive energy costs.

Noise levels are also impressively low. The Lockerstor Gen 3 series is designed with a 120mm rear fan, copper heat pipes, and extensive internal ventilation, which help manage temperatures without producing excessive noise. Even during heavy workloads, the system remains quiet, making it suitable for environments where noise could be an issue. This balance of power, cooling, and quiet operation is one of the major advantages of the series.

3. Impressive Storage Options and Expansion

Storage scalability is another strong suit of the Lockerstor Gen 3 series. The NAS models come with 4, 6, 8, or 10 SATA bays, depending on the model, allowing for plenty of hard drive storage. Each bay can accommodate up to 24TB of storage, meaning even the smallest model, the 4-bay AS6804T, can hold up to 96TB of raw storage. For users needing more, the 10-bay AS68010T can store up to 240TB. This is ideal for data-heavy environments like video production, archival work, or large-scale backups.

The addition of four M.2 NVMe slots across the entire series further enhances the flexibility of the Lockerstor Gen 3 models. These slots can be used for SSD caching, RAID storage pools, or tiered storage solutions, providing users with faster data access.

The fact that these are Gen 4 NVMe slots also ensures high-speed performance, with each slot capable of up to 2GB per second throughput. Whether for fast-access storage or as a dedicated scratch disk for demanding applications, the inclusion of NVMe slots gives the series a significant advantage.

Users can configure their storage in various ways to meet specific needs, including combining HDDs for large-capacity storage while using NVMe SSDs for performance-intensive tasks. The ability to mix and match different storage types makes this NAS series particularly versatile for users with evolving storage requirements.

Additionally, with support for advanced RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, users have numerous options for optimizing performance and data redundancy.

4. Advanced ADM 5 Software Features

Asustor’s ADM 5 operating system plays a crucial role in making the Lockerstor Gen 3 series a competitive choice. ADM 5 is not just a basic NAS management interface; it offers a broad array of features tailored to both home users and enterprises. With support for a wide variety of network protocols, such as SMB, NFS, and iSCSI, it provides the flexibility required to integrate the NAS into various environments. Moreover, ADM 5 includes advanced tools for managing backups, virtual machines, and even Docker containers.

ADM 5 also introduces new features that make it easier to manage and secure data. For instance, the system offers extensive support for data backup, with the ability to sync files to cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. Local backups to other NAS units or external drives are also supported, ensuring that users can safeguard their data no matter what. Additionally, the system includes various security features like two-step authentication, port blocking, and IP blacklists, which are essential for protecting data in today’s increasingly connected world.

One area where ADM 5 shines is in its ability to run third-party applications, such as AI tools and multimedia apps, alongside the standard NAS functionality. Users can deploy virtual machines, run containerized applications, and manage multimedia libraries with ease. While some users may find the interface a bit overwhelming initially, the overall functionality is robust and meets the needs of power users and businesses alike. ADM 5 continues to improve with regular updates, adding more features and fine-tuning the user experience.

5. Powerful CPU and ECC Memory

At the core of the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is the AMD Ryzen V3C14 processor, a quad-core, eight-thread CPU based on AMD’s Rembrandt architecture. With a base clock of 2.3GHz and a turbo speed of up to 3.8GHz, this processor is designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. Whether running multiple virtual machines, performing large-scale data backups, or streaming media to several devices at once, the V3C14 can keep up with the workload without significant slowdowns. Its 20 PCIe Gen 4 lanes also ensure that data moves swiftly between the NAS’s various components.

One of the standout features of the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is its support for ECC memory. The system comes with 16GB of DDR5 ECC memory, which can be expanded up to 64GB. ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory provides an extra layer of data integrity by detecting and correcting memory errors that can occur during data transfer. This is particularly important for NAS devices that are expected to run continuously, as it helps prevent data corruption over time. The combination of ECC memory and the powerful Ryzen processor makes the Lockerstor Gen 3 series a reliable option for business-critical applications.

Component	Specification
CPU Model	AMD Ryzen V3000 (Embedded)
CPU Architecture	Zen 3+ (Rembrandt), 6 nm, Socket FP7
Cores / Threads	4 cores / 8 threads
Base Frequency	2.3 GHz
Turbo Frequency	Up to 3.8 GHz
TDP	Configurable 10-25W (Default 15W)
L1 Cache	64 KB per core
L2 Cache	512 KB per core
L3 Cache	8 MB (shared)
Memory Type	DDR5 ECC
Memory Speed	4800 MT/s
Memory Capacity	16GB (expandable up to 64GB, 2 slots)
Memory Channels	Dual-channel
ECC Support	Yes (Error-Correcting Code memory)

The memory and CPU combination ensures that the Lockerstor Gen 3 series can handle even the most resource-intensive tasks, including real-time data processing, virtualization, and large-scale data storage. The system’s design is optimized for high throughput, and the ECC memory further ensures data accuracy and consistency. Users who require high reliability, such as those in the creative industry or enterprise IT environments, will find that the Lockerstor Gen 3 series delivers the performance and stability they need.

Reasons to Be Cautious About the Lockerstor Gen 3 Series

While the Lockerstor Gen 3 series boasts many strengths, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Here are four aspects that might make you hesitate before purchasing this NAS.

1. High Price Point

One of the most significant factors to consider when evaluating the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is its price. With the 4-bay AS6804T starting at $1,299, this NAS series is notably more expensive than its predecessors or other competing models in the market. The 6-bay AS6806T is priced at $1,499, and the 8-bay and 10-bay models are expected to cost upwards of $1,699 and $1,899, respectively. For many users, especially those transitioning from the Gen 2 series, this price increase may come as a shock, making it harder to justify the upgrade.

It’s important to note that while the price is high, the hardware improvements over previous generations are substantial. The inclusion of dual 10GbE and dual 5GbE ports, USB 4.0, M.2 NVMe slots, and ECC memory support all contribute to the higher cost. However, for users who only require basic storage functionality or have lower network demands, the Lockerstor Gen 3’s price may be overkill. It’s essential to weigh the performance needs against the price before making a purchase.

Moreover, Asustor is still considered a smaller player in the NAS market compared to giants like Synology or QNAP. This may lead some users to hesitate when faced with a high price tag from a brand that does not yet have the same market dominance. While the Lockerstor Gen 3 series offers an impressive set of features, its premium price point may limit its appeal to a niche audience of power users and businesses with larger budgets.

2. Lack of Integrated Graphics

Another drawback of the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is the absence of integrated graphics. While the AMD Ryzen V3C14 processor is powerful, it lacks the integrated GPU that many users rely on for media transcoding or graphical workloads. This could be a significant limitation for users who use their NAS for streaming media via Plex or other similar applications, where on-the-fly video transcoding is required to adjust for different devices or network conditions.

Without integrated graphics, the Lockerstor Gen 3 series struggles to perform efficient real-time transcoding, especially for 4K or 8K media files. Users who plan to use their NAS for media streaming to various devices may find that the system becomes overworked when handling high-resolution media formats. This limitation makes the NAS less suitable for those who prioritize multimedia use, particularly if their library includes high-definition content that needs to be transcoded frequently.

For users who don’t need media transcoding or graphics processing, the absence of integrated graphics may not be a significant issue. However, for those looking to build a media server or run GPU-dependent applications, the lack of an iGPU could limit the system’s potential. It’s an important factor to consider, especially if you’re comparing the Lockerstor Gen 3 series to other NAS models that come with integrated graphics processors (IGP).

3. ADM Software Still Needs Refinement

Although Asustor’s ADM 5 software has made significant improvements over previous versions, it still has some rough edges that need polishing. One of the main complaints is that certain features and services are scattered across multiple apps, making it more difficult for users to find what they need. For example, backup and synchronization tools are split between different apps, creating confusion for users who may expect these functions to be consolidated in a single portal.

The overall user interface of ADM 5, while functional, can feel clunky, especially for newcomers to the NAS ecosystem. Some tasks, such as setting up backup routines or managing security protocols, require users to navigate through several different apps, which can be frustrating. Asustor could improve the user experience by centralizing these functions and streamlining the interface, similar to what competitors like Synology have done with their DiskStation Manager (DSM) software.

Despite these minor issues, ADM 5 is still a solid platform, particularly for users familiar with Asustor’s ecosystem. The software includes a wide range of features, such as support for AI-powered tools, cloud backups, and virtual machine deployment. However, for those new to Asustor or users expecting a more polished software experience, the learning curve may be steeper than with other NAS brands.

4. Limited Surveillance Features

The Surveillance Center app that comes bundled with the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is functional but somewhat lackluster compared to the offerings from other NAS brands. While it supports basic IP camera setups and can handle real-time streaming, it falls short in terms of advanced surveillance features. Competitors like Synology’s Surveillance Station or QNAP’s QVR Pro offer more robust options, such as advanced AI analytics, better camera compatibility, and a more user-friendly interface.

One of the issues with Asustor’s Surveillance Center is its dated interface, which feels out of sync with the more modern features available in ADM 5. The app supports a range of IP cameras and allows for KVM output, where users can attach a monitor for standalone operation. However, its overall performance and feature set don’t live up to the expectations set by its competitors. This may be disappointing for users who plan to use their NAS for surveillance in addition to regular storage tasks.

While Asustor does offer a beta version of an updated Surveillance Center app, it is not included with ADM 5 by default. The beta version brings improvements in browser support and a more responsive user interface, but it’s still in development and not officially part of the software package. As a result, users seeking a NAS primarily for surveillance purposes might want to consider alternative options from brands with stronger surveillance app ecosystems.

Lockerstor Gen 3 NAS Series. Are they Any Good? – Conclusion and Verdict

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 3 series is undoubtedly one of the most feature-packed and powerful NAS systems available today. Its high-speed network connectivity, flexible storage options, and robust processing power make it an excellent choice for power users, businesses, and anyone needing high-performance data storage and management. The inclusion of ECC memory, multiple M.2 NVMe slots, and extensive ADM 5 software features further enhance its appeal, especially for those who require advanced data protection and cloud integration. However, the high price point and a few software shortcomings may be off-putting for some potential buyers. Additionally, the lack of integrated graphics could limit its appeal for multimedia-heavy tasks. That said, if you are looking for a versatile, future-proof NAS system with exceptional performance, the Lockerstor Gen 3 series is hard to beat.

SOFTWARE - 7/10

HARDWARE - 10/10

PERFORMANCE - 10/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

8.2

PROS

High-Performance CPU: Equipped with the AMD Ryzen V3000 Embedded processor, delivering efficient, server-grade performance for demanding tasks.

ECC DDR5 Memory: Includes 16GB of ECC DDR5 memory (expandable to 64GB), ensuring data integrity and reliability.

Comprehensive Connectivity: Dual 10GbE and dual 5GbE ports, along with two USB4 ports, provide a combined bandwidth of up to 30 Gbps for versatile network setups.

Advanced Data Protection: Offers RAID 5 and RAID 6 options for HDDs and NVMe drives, with hot-swappable capabilities and Btrfs support for snapshots.

USB4/Thunderbolt 4 Over IP: Supports direct connection to Mac and Windows systems via USB4 for fast data transfers and point-to-point editing.

Robust Build Quality: Sturdy metal chassis with minimal noise, even during heavy operations, and excellent heat dissipation with a copper heat pipe.

ADM 5 Software: Reliable, secure OS with essential features like snapshots, remote access, and simplified setup; supports third-party OS installations.

Efficient Power Consumption: Peaks at around 50W under heavy load, efficient for the system’s performance class.

Front LCD Display: The configurable LCD panel allows direct monitoring and setup, a handy feature for easy system management.

Excellent for Multi-User Environments: Multi-channel network support and high bandwidth make it ideal for collaborative, multi-client setups.

CONS

High Price Point: At around $1,299, it’s a premium option, potentially limiting appeal for home users and hobbyists.

No Integrated Graphics: Lacks GPU support, limiting multimedia transcoding and high-end streaming capabilities.

Software Limitations: ADM 5 is solid but doesn’t match the multimedia and AI features found in competitors like Synology and QNAP.

M.2 NVMe Slots Limited to PCIe x1: Each NVMe slot is limited to x1 speed, slightly capping potential performance for SSDs.

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The Minisforum MS-A2 Workstation Revealed

Rob Andrews

13 janvier 2025 à 10:00

Minisforum MS-A2 Workstation – Coming Soon

We spoke about a lot of mini PCs in 2024, and as 2025 rolls around, you will be unsurprised to know that many of the existing brands hoping to take advantage of growing demand for efficient, compact, yet powerful computers have not exactly been resting! One of the most popular mini PC releases of 2023/2024 was the Minisforum MS-01, a powerful compact workstation that supported an Intel i9, 10GbE connectivity, and huge expandability in both SSDs and PCIe. Fast forward to January 2025 at CES in Nevada, and we learn that the brand is already working on the spiritual follow-up—the Minisforum MS-A2! Building on most of the innovations seen in the MS-01, this new mini PC spices things up even more with AMD architecture, ECC memory, and more! Arriving soon at retail, they plan on running this new MS-A2 alongside the MS-01, thereby providing interested users the choice of which architecture best suits their tastes. So let’s dig into everything we have learned about this new mini PC.

Minisforum MS-A2 Mini PC Specifications

It’s worth highlighting that there is a decent amount of crossover between the new MS-A2 and the previous MS-01. This system actually manages to find a sweet spot between the MS-01 specifications and the recently released MS-A1, further fleshing out their portfolio of workstation mini PC solutions. Here are the specifications confirmed so far:

Component	Details
Processor	AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX (16 Cores / 32 Threads, 64MB Cache, Base: 3.5GHz, Boost: 5.4GHz)
GPU	AMD Radeon 610M
Memory	DDR5 Dual Channel (up to 5200MHz, Max 96GB
Storage Expansion	– 3x M.2 NVMe SSD slots (2x PCIe Gen 4×4, 1x PCIe Gen 3×4)
	– Supports M.2-to-U.2 adapters
PCIe Expansion	1x PCIe x16 (PCIe 4.0)
Networking	– 2x 10Gbps SFP+ (Intel X710)
	– 2x 2.5Gbps Ethernet Port (Intel i226V)
	– Wi-Fi 6E (Upgradeable to Wi-Fi 7 via M.2 adapter)
USB Ports	– 4x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A, 10Gbps)
	– 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, 10Gbps, Alt DP)
	– 2x USB 2.0 (Front)
Video Output	– 1x HDMI 2.0
	– 2x USB-C (Alt DisplayPort 2.0)
Audio	1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
Power	DC-IN (19V/12.63A)
Dimensions	196 x 189 x 45 mm
Operating System	Linux/Windows supported

First and foremost, let’s dig into that CPU! When the original MS-01 arrived with a 13th-generation i9 core processor, many users (myself included) were absolutely blown away that this rather compact system had an absolute beast of a CPU. For this AMD-focused device, a similar level of processor enthusiasm is evident! Much like the MS-01, active and passive cooling is tactically placed to run horizontally throughout the system. The system CPU fan feeds directly into a metallic vent panel that runs directly into the southernmost backplane. Equally, there are heatsinks located over the majority of key components and an additional baseline laptop-style fan that resides over the M.2 storage areas.

The AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX is a high-end mobile processor introduced in January 2023, featuring 16 cores and 32 threads based on AMD’s advanced Zen 4 architecture. Operating at a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz and capable of boosting up to 5.4 GHz, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications. Manufactured using a 5 nm process, the processor includes 64 MB of L3 cache, enhancing data access speeds and overall efficiency.

Integrated within the Ryzen 9 7945HX is the AMD Radeon 610M GPU, an entry-level graphics solution based on the RDNA 2 architecture. Equipped with 128 shading units and operating at clock speeds up to 2.2 GHz, the Radeon 610M supports DirectX 12 Ultimate, ensuring compatibility with modern graphics features. While its performance is modest, making it suitable for less demanding tasks and light gaming, it offers energy-efficient graphics capabilities for everyday use.

As this is an AMD modern series processor, you’ll be pleased to hear that this compact workstation system supports ECC memory. So you aren’t just reliant on DDR5’s native on-die ECC—you can have the best of both worlds here . (This has been confirmed as not supported) Supporting up to 96GB of DDR5 SODIMM memory across two slots, this little workstation has plenty of memory scalability to ensure that intensive Proxmox or general virtual machine deployment is going to be a piece of cake.

Much like the MS-01, the MS-A2 also arrives with three individual M.2 NVMe SSD slots. All three slots are optimized for speed; however, two of them are PCIe Gen 4×4, and one is a PCIe Gen 3×4 slot. Despite the difference in PCIe generations on the slots, the fact that all three are full-speed M.2 is definitely appreciated. It’s actually surprisingly rare in a mini PC to have all three slots at full speed. Moreover, two of the individual M.2 NVMe slots are 22110 length, meaning this system can support larger SSDs or even PLP-supported M.2 NVMes that tend to be longer than typical 2280-length drives.

Additionally, much like a few other Minisforum devices, the MS-A2 supports the in-house M.2-to-U.2 adapter. It is unclear whether this system can support two M.2 adapters at once, leaving the third drive for a traditional NVMe SSD, but nevertheless, I know this is a useful feature for some who want to take advantage of the largest storage benefits.

Alongside the triple M.2 NVMes, the system also features a low-profile PCIe x16 slot (physical x16, but x8 in bandwidth). This is a pretty tight slot, and you will need to be selective about which PCIe expander cards you choose, but the brand was keen to highlight that you can even get laptop-scaled PCIe GPU cards that comfortably fit inside this available slot.

In terms of network connectivity, the MS-A2 arrives with two SFP+ 10Gb Ethernet connections and two 2.5Gb Ethernet connection. This is perhaps a little disappointing for those who were hoping the MS-A2 would match the incredible network connectivity of the MS-01(which featured the same, plus an additional 2x USB4 which supports network over Thunderbolt/USB in some setups), but this is still a decent upgrade from the majority of mini PCs in the market right now and comfortably keeps this system in the prosumer mini workstation category, as well as ahead of the MS-A1.

Alongside the physical network connections, this mini workstation also features Wi-Fi 6E connectivity via an internal M.2 adapter, which can be easily upgraded to Wi-Fi 7 via numerous affordable Intel modules. The system features a plethora of USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections in Type-A and Type-C, located on both the front and rear of the system. Discussions around USB 4 and its support on some AMD processors do raise questions about this system being a preferred alternative to the USB4/TB4-supported MS-01, but at the very least, it’s going to be a while before you run out of USB ports on this mini workstation.

Arriving with the same slide-out tray, physical design, and modest 196 x 189 x 45 mm size, Minisforum has once again managed to pack an incredible amount of hardware into a relatively small amount of space. I will try to remain as neutral as possible about this device until we physically have the unit in for review, but I think it would be fair to say that I have always been, and will always be, a huge fan of the design that Minisforum has opted for on their series of workstation devices.

Early information on the physical design and hardware specifications of this device leaves me pretty impressed at the moment and definitely eager to learn more about it when it reaches retail. The brand tells me it is targeted for launch in early Q1 2025, although pricing has yet to be confirmed. Stay tuned as we learn more about other solutions from Minisforum soon.

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

Minisforum N5 Pro NAS Revealed

Rob Andrews

8 janvier 2025 à 01:18

Minisforum N5 Pro NAS – Is it too Early for NAS of the Year?

With so many mini PC brands trying to break their way into the network-attached storage NAS market, it takes a lot for any one of them to really stand out against the established players in the private server solutions market. However, one brand that has been making big waves is Minisforum, a brand that enjoyed significant high praise from industry professionals for their growing range of premium mini workstation solutions, such as the MS-01 and MS-A1. Now the brand is ready to break its way into network-attached storage with the first of three planned NAS solutions in 2025. This first one, the N5 Pro, is a 5-bay powerhouse desktop solution that really is pushing the boundaries of what most users expect from a compact 5-bay solution in 2025. After the brand revealed a prototype NAS expansion card that worked with the MS-01 to scale it up to a six-bay SSD solution, it was already pretty clear that this brand had high aspirations toward their own range of storage-optimized solutions. So let’s discuss everything we know about the new N5 Pro NAS.

Minisiforum N5 Pro NAS Hardware Specifications

As mentioned earlier, I am kind of blown away by the hardware specifications of the Minisforum N5 Pro. Borrowing a lot of the hardware attitudes of their recent workstation solutions, this system arrives with a particularly capable AMD HX Pro CPU, 96GB of ECC memory supported, some impressive base-level connectivity, and the means to scale it up significantly. Here are the specifications confirmed so far:

Category	Specifications
Processor	AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 (12 Cores / 24 Threads)
	Base Clock: 3.5 GHz, Boost Clock: Up to 5.2 GHz
	Advanced AMD Zen 5 Architecture
	Integrated AI Engine for enhanced data processing and analysis
Memory	DDR5 SODIMM ×2, Up to 96GB (48GB per slot, Up to 5600MHz)
	Real ECC Memory supported
Storage Expansion	HDD/SSD Bays: 5 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD Bays (Up to 22TB per drive, SATA 3.0)
	M.2 SSD Slots:
	– 1 x M.2 2230/2280 NVMe SSD (Up to 4TB, PCIe 4.0 x1)
	– 1 x U.2/M.2 2280/22110 NVMe SSD (Up to 15TB, PCIe 4.0 x1)
	– 1 x U.2/M.2 2280/22110 NVMe SSD (Up to 15TB, PCIe 4.0 x2)
PCIe Expansion	1 x PCIe x16 (PCIe 4.0 x4)
	OCuLink 4i x1 (PCIe 4.0 x4)
Networking	1 x 10Gbps Ethernet Port (RJ45)
	1 x 5Gbps Ethernet Port (RJ45)
Peripherals Interface	USB Ports:
	– USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A (10Gbps) x3 (2 rear, 1 front)
	– USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A (10Gbps) x1 (Internal)
	– USB2.0 x1 (Rear)
	– USB4 (40Gbps, Alt DP) Type-C x2 (Front)
	Audio Outputs:
	– 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack x1
	– HDMI x1
	Video Outputs:
	– HDMI 2.0 x1
	– Type-C (Alt DP2.0) x2
Power	DC-IN Jack x1 (19V / 12.63A)
Motherboard Design	Modular motherboard with removable tray for easy maintenance
Cooling	Horizontal cooling system with controlled airflow from front to back
Highlights	Built-in 10Gbps NIC
	Enterprise-class SSD support (Up to 2 drives)
	Supports standard PCIe expansion
	Supports real ECC memory

I really like the aesthetic design here. The chassis takes advantage of a horizontal cooling system, and the front panel, which is semi-transparent, covers the main storage bays and is magnetically held in place. At the base of the main hard drive bay area, there is a clickable button for removing the main motherboard—but we’ll get on to that in a little bit.

Straight away, we have to talk about that CPU. With both Intel and AMD racing to roll out their best AI-optimized processors, this is a particularly high-end AMD CPU that Minisforum has opted for. Ultimately, CPUs are designed for large language models and AI-facilitated database retrieval to be performed significantly more efficiently, leveraging away from GPU processes. Additionally, with 12 cores and 24 threads to play with, there is a lot of horsepower to get pretty much any home/prosumer/business workload running efficiently. You are looking at a real beefy processor to run your desired third-party OS of choice.

The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 is a high-performance processor introduced in Q2 2024, designed to meet the demands of modern computing tasks. It features 12 cores and 24 threads, operating at a base clock speed of 2.0 GHz, with the capability to boost up to 5.1 GHz. This configuration ensures efficient multitasking and robust performance across a variety of applications. Built on AMD’s advanced Zen 5 microarchitecture, the Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 integrates an AI engine capable of delivering up to 50 INT8 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second). This AI engine enhances data processing and analysis, enabling more efficient handling of AI-related workloads directly on the CPU.

The processor supports PCIe 4.0, facilitating high-speed data transfer between the CPU and connected devices, which is essential for tasks requiring rapid data access and storage solutions. Additionally, it is compatible with DDR5 and LPDDR5x memory types, supporting memory speeds up to 8000 MHz, allowing for a maximum memory capacity of 256 GB. This support for high-speed memory contributes to the processor’s ability to handle intensive workloads effectively. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics adapter, featuring 16 Compute Units based on the RDNA 3+ architecture, provides competent graphics performance for applications that require GPU acceleration. This integration eliminates the need for a discrete graphics card in many scenarios, offering a balance between performance and power efficiency. The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 stands as a versatile processor, combining robust CPU performance with integrated AI capabilities and efficient power management, making it suitable for a wide range of computing needs.

Additionally, alongside this CPU, the system arrives with support for up to 96GB of DDR5 SODIMM memory across two slots. However, the real beauty here is that this SATA and M.2 NVMe-tied storage system also supports DDR5 ECC memory (not just on-die ECC DDR5 like many other similar solutions in the market right now). ECC support is generally more accessible on AMD-powered systems, and the N5 Pro serves as no exception.

Next up, let’s talk storage. The system has five individual hot-swap SATA bays that support both traditional large-capacity hard drives and faster, if more reduced, SATA SSD storage. With regards to RAID, the hardware will comfortably support this, and really you are only limited by whichever NAS software (for example, TrueNAS or Unraid) you choose to run on this NAS. It will no doubt arrive with a standard Windows 11 license, as most Minisforum systems do, but for NAS users, you are almost certainly going to opt for one of these two popular choices.

Alongside the SATA storage, the system features three individual M.2 NVMe slots, with two slots at 2280 length and one slot at 22110 length. More often than not, NAS systems arrive with SATA storage bays and just two M.2 NVMe slots, which can often result in losing one of these M.2 slots to your OS drive. Therefore, it’s pretty impressive that they’ve managed to include three slots here and that all three slots are Gen 4 bandwidth, with one slot at Gen 4 x2 and two slots at Gen 4 x1.

Additionally, much like the Minisforum MS-01 supporting an M.2 to U.2 adaptor, the Minisforum N5 Pro can support two of these adaptors and still allow you to use the last M.2 NVMe slot. U.2 SSDs allow you to take advantage of the faster speed afforded to those Gen 4 slots, but also means a larger capacity potential per bay.

A really impressive feature of the Minisforum N5 Pro is that accessing the main motherboard to add PCIe upgrade cards, install new memory modules, upgrade SSD storage, and perform general maintenance is made infinitely easier thanks to the motherboard being removable at the simple click of a button. Once again, borrowing a lot of the design of the MS-01 removable tray, but on a much larger scale! This is a really unusual design choice, but as soon as I saw it in action, I immediately wondered why on earth this has never been done before—it makes system maintenance and upgrades infinitely easier!

Moreover, you can see that a lot of the cooling internally has been designed around this modular structure, and having the tray removable in this way also results in the active and passive cooling on either side of this motherboard being considerably more controlled and passing through the casing from front to back when the system is in operation.

At a glance, one could argue that this system is simply one of Minisforum’s existing mini PCs with a 5-bay architecture added on top. Though the reality is that a great deal more design and functionality has been developed here, and it all leads to an exceptionally unique but impressively scalable device.

Inside, the system is quite similar in profile to that of the MS-01, and the system arrives with a PCIe Gen 4 x16 physical slot (limited to x4 speed—TBC). So, there is still a decent amount of room to expand this device when needed. However, keep in mind that this is a lower-profile PCIe slot due to the modular nature of the motherboard in this system.

Talking about upgrade and scalability, almost as an afterthought, on the rear of the system, I discovered that the N5 Pro also features an OCuLink port! That means that alongside an enormous range of scalability inside, there is also the potential to add external GPUs, fast bolt-on storage, or more very easily here. OCuLink is still in its comparative infancy compared with a number of different expansion options in the market, but its impressively efficient power delivery and constantly developing accessory market right now all add up to this system having a fantastically varied range of upgrade options available out of the gate.

Next up, let’s discuss network connectivity. The system features copper Ethernet connections—one is 10 gigabit, and the other is 5 gigabit. You definitely get the feeling that Minisforum did not want to leave a shred of PCIe lane bandwidth on the table here. You could, of course, scale up the network connectivity via affordable USB adapters or a PCIe upgrade card, but I have to applaud this system featuring both a dual network architecture and that both of those ports are pretty bandwidth-rich. The rest of the network connections are pretty standard, with the system featuring USB 10Gbps Type-A connections on both the front and the rear, as well as an HDMI 4K output and audio outputs.

However, this system continues to dial things up to 11 by also featuring two USB 4 40Gbps Type-C connections! The brand was unable to confirm network connectivity over these ports, but given the difficulties surrounding USB 4/Thunderbolt 4 network pass-through on AMD architecture, I am willing to bet that this is not going to be a software feature easily achieved here. Also, as this system is not truly turnkey (as you need to get your own NAS OS installed), it means that they can only really focus on the hardware and provide the resources for your chosen NAS software to build on top of. Currently, very few NAS OS platforms support USB 4 network connectivity, so don’t hold your breath.

Overall, I am exceptionally impressed by the Minisforum N5 Pro NAS. After this brand really shaking things up in the mini PC market, I shouldn’t be so surprised that when they attacked the NAS market, they would do so to a phenomenal degree! The system promises to be the first of a two- or three-model series. The brand seems to have been a little quieter on the development of the MS-01 NAS SSD upgrade card, and it could well be that they have slowed development of that card until this system is closer to launch and therefore provide one card that could potentially support flash NAS expandability to six bays across both this system and the previously mentioned MS-01.

Now in place, this is going to be a phenomenal solution to challenge existing pre-built DIY NAS solutions in 2025. Details surrounding launch price and indeed launch dates are still incredibly nebulous, but I have full confidence that this brand is going to launch this product later this year.

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Synology DP320 NAS Review – A New Kind of Synology Solution

Rob Andrews

8 janvier 2025 à 01:18

Review of the New Synology DP320 Active Protect NAS – A Good Change?

Quick Note for this review – As much as I want to review the DP320 separate from other Synology NAS solutions (with DSM appliances, and therefore completely different intended user), it is impossible to do this. This is because Synology Diskstation and Rackstation Solutions are pretty much the main alternative to this solution to the DP320. So, apologies if elements of this review draw more comparison to DSM than you (and perhaps even Synology themselves) might like.

The Synology DP320 represents a notable departure from Synology’s established NAS lineup, introducing a device tailored specifically for backup and disaster recovery under the new ActiveProtect platform. For years, Synology’s desktop NAS systems have been synonymous with versatility, powered by the robust DSM operating system that supports a wide array of applications and configurations. However, with the DP320 and its siblings in the ActiveProtect series, Synology is pivoting toward a more focused, purpose-built approach. This shift raises questions about how it fits within the company’s broader ecosystem and its implications for the future of Synology’s hardware and software offerings.

The DP320 is one of several new additions to Synology’s ActiveProtect lineup, joining models like the DP340 and DP7400. Unlike traditional Synology NAS devices, the DP320 is not powered by DSM and does not aim to be a multi-purpose solution. Instead, it is built solely for use with Synology’s ActiveProtect Manager, a specialized platform designed to centralize and simplify data protection. This streamlined focus makes the DP320 a dedicated backup appliance rather than a general-purpose server, a design choice that reflects Synology’s intent to address the growing demand for robust, business-specific data protection tools. However, this specialization also raises concerns among long-time Synology users about the narrowing scope of its capabilities.

Synology DP320 Review – Quick Conclusion

As a standalone platform and if you do not draw comparison with Synology’s DSM devices – the DP320 is a great (if somewhat rigid and inflexible) solution and does precisely what the brand says it will do Moving away from the multi-purpose, DSM-powered NAS systems to a specialized backup appliance built around the ActiveProtect Manager platform was always going to result in mixed feelings! ActiveProtect is NOT replacing DSM – but one cannot help but wonder the long-term impact on the development of DSM, as well as future development of popular applications such as ActiveBackup, when this dedicated backup appliance exists. While it simplifies data protection with centralized management, robust security, and reliable performance, it lacks the versatility that has defined DSM devices. Without access to applications like Synology Drive, Surveillance Station, or Hyper Backup, and with limited hardware expandability, the DP320 focuses exclusively on backup and disaster recovery, positioning itself as a solution for businesses seeking ease of use without the complexity of a traditional NAS. However, this narrowed focus raises concerns about how ActiveProtect may impact DSM’s future development, as Synology’s resources are now divided between supporting this separate ecosystem and enhancing DSM’s broader appeal. DSM-powered NAS devices remain highly valued for their flexibility, supporting diverse applications, multi-purpose workflows, and scalability, making them indispensable for many users beyond simple data protection. While the DP320 serves a niche market well, its adoption should be carefully considered against the broader capabilities and value provided by DSM-based solutions. This balance between dedicated functionality and multi-purpose versatility reflects Synology’s evolving strategy, but also underscores the need for clarity on how this will shape its commitment to its traditional user base.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 6/10

VALUE - 7/10

7.2

PROS

Simplified, purpose-built design for backup and disaster recovery.

ActiveProtect Manager offers centralized, intuitive management.

Strong focus on security with immutability and air-gapped backups.

Prepopulated with enterprise-grade drives for easy deployment.

Efficient deduplication reduces storage overhead.

Reliable performance for small to medium-sized businesses.

Integration with Synology C2 cloud enhances hybrid backup strategies.

Streamlined setup and management, ideal for less technical users.

Competitive price per terabyte compared to purchasing a NAS and drives separately.

CONS

Limited hardware expandability compared to DSM devices.

Lacks support for DSM’s broad application ecosystem.

Absence of advanced networking options like 10GbE.

Dependency on ActiveProtect limits compatibility with DSM.

Long-term value may be questionable compared to the versatility of a DSM-powered NAS.

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Synology DP320 Review – The Hardware & Design

The Synology DP320 introduces a deviation from Synology’s traditional NAS offerings, emphasizing a focused design as a backup-specific appliance operating on the ActiveProtect platform. Unlike its DSM-powered predecessors, the DP320 is not intended as a general-purpose NAS but rather a dedicated backup solution for businesses.

This shift has drawn mixed reactions from Synology’s user base, particularly those who have relied on the flexibility and comprehensive ecosystem of DSM. The DP320 features a dual-bay design with RAID 1 configuration, signaling Synology’s intent to address specific business-oriented needs while moving away from the multifaceted capabilities associated with its mainstream NAS devices.

At its core, the DP320 is powered by an AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core processor paired with 8GB of DDR4 ECC memory, designed to prioritize reliability and efficient file processing. This hardware configuration lacks support for advanced features like 10GbE networking or m.2 NVMe caching, which are present in devices such as the DS723+.

The omission of these features underscores Synology’s emphasis on backup-centric tasks over high-speed data handling or virtualization. While the hardware is suitable for smaller deployments, its lack of scalability may not meet the demands of larger organizations, limiting its versatility as a more general-purpose solution.

Connectivity on the DP320 is basic, with two 1GbE LAN ports—one dedicated to management and the other to data transfer—and a single USB 3.2 Gen 1 port. The USB port’s functionality within the ActiveProtect ecosystem is notably limited, offering minimal utility for local USB backups. This minimalistic approach reflects Synology’s aim to streamline the device for centralized and straightforward backup management.

However, the limited options for network and peripheral connectivity may frustrate users who require greater flexibility or advanced configurations to integrate the device into more complex IT environments.

The DP320 is shipped prepopulated with enterprise-grade hard drives, reinforcing its identity as a specialized backup device. Specifically, it includes two 8TB Synology HDDs in a RAID 1 configuration, which provides redundancy but eliminates the user’s ability to customize storage options at purchase.

Unlike DSM-based devices, the DP320’s fixed storage setup simplifies the initial deployment for less technically inclined users but restricts adaptability for organizations with specific or evolving storage needs. This preconfigured approach mirrors Synology’s strategy with its rackmount DP7400 model, further emphasizing simplicity and predefined workflows over flexibility.

Synology DP320 vs DP340 vs DP7400 – What is the Difference?

The Synology DP320, DP340, and DP7400 represent three tiers of Synology’s ActiveProtect lineup, each tailored for distinct use cases based on deployment scale, performance needs, and hardware capabilities. The DP320 is designed for small-scale deployments, offering basic backup functionalities in a compact form factor with minimal resource requirements. The DP340 provides a mid-tier option, adding enhanced storage capacity and network performance suitable for medium-sized businesses. At the high end, the DP7400 targets enterprise environments, featuring robust scalability, higher performance, and advanced hardware configurations for managing large-scale workloads.

While all three models run the ActiveProtect Manager (APM) software, their differences in hardware significantly affect their capabilities. The DP320 and DP340 share the same AMD Ryzen R1600 processor, but the DP340 includes more memory and dual 10GbE networking for faster data transfers. In contrast, the DP7400 is equipped with an AMD EPYC 7272 processor, offering vastly superior performance with 12 cores and 64GB of memory, making it capable of handling significantly more concurrent workloads. Storage configurations also differ, with the DP320 and DP340 providing limited scalability compared to the DP7400’s enterprise-grade RAID 6 configuration and SSD caching.

Specification	DP320	DP340	DP7400
Cluster Role	Follower	Follower	Controller (Manage up to 2500 servers or 150,000 workloads)
Form Factor	Desktop / 2 bays	Desktop / 4 bays	2U Rackmount / 12 bays
CPU & Cores	AMD Ryzen R1600 (2 cores)	AMD Ryzen R1600 (2 cores)	AMD EPYC 7272 (12 cores)
Suggested Backup Source	5 TB (20 Machines or 50 SaaS users)	14.5 TB (60 Machines or 150 SaaS users)	83.5 TB (350 Machines or 3300 SaaS users)
Storage Configuration	RAID 1 (2 x 8 TB HDD)	RAID 5 (4 x 8 TB HDD)	RAID 6 + 1 Spare (10 x 20 TB HDD) + 2 x 3.84 TB SSD
Memory	8 GB DDR4 ECC	16 GB DDR4 ECC	64 GB DDR4 ECC
Concurrent Built-in VMs	1	2	9
Network Interface	1 x 1GbE RJ-45 (Management)	1 x 1GbE RJ-45 (Management)	1 x 1GbE RJ-45 (Management)
	1 x 1GbE RJ-45 (Data Transfer)	1 x 10GbE RJ-45 (Data Transfer)	2 x 10GbE RJ-45 (Data Transfer)
Warranty	3 years	3 years	5 years

The differences in hardware extend to software functionality, with the DP7400 capable of acting as a controller in cluster configurations, managing up to 2500 servers or 150,000 workloads. In contrast, the DP320 and DP340 serve as follower nodes within larger systems or standalone backup solutions.

These differences make the DP320 ideal for small businesses with limited data needs, the DP340 a solid option for medium-sized organizations requiring moderate scalability, and the DP7400 a powerful solution for enterprise-grade environments demanding high performance, reliability, and expansive capacity.

Synology ActiveProtect Software

Synology ActiveProtect is a comprehensive backup and disaster recovery platform designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses. Unlike Synology’s traditional DSM (DiskStation Manager), which offers a multi-purpose operating system for general NAS management, ActiveProtect is a dedicated, backup-specific solution tailored to simplify data protection across various environments.

By consolidating multiple backup and data protection tools into a single, intuitive management system, ActiveProtect eliminates the need for disparate applications while focusing exclusively on backup efficiency and reliability. This separation from DSM allows ActiveProtect to introduce features like immutability, air-gapped backups, and global deduplication, ensuring data integrity and streamlined operations.

While DSM emphasizes versatility with applications like Synology Drive, Surveillance Station, and virtualization tools, ActiveProtect narrows its scope to backup and disaster recovery, making it an ideal solution for organizations seeking centralized, specialized data protection rather than a general-purpose NAS platform.

Synology ActiveProtect – The TL;DR

Centralized Backup Management: Unified dashboard for managing backups across physical devices, virtual machines, and cloud platforms, integrating multiple DSM tools into one system.
Customizable Protection Plans: Flexible schedules, retention policies, and backup destinations tailored to specific devices or workloads, with support for archive plans for inactive backups.
Enhanced Data Security: Features immutability, air-gapped backups, and encryption, ensuring data protection against unauthorized modifications and external threats.
Hybrid Backup Support: Integration with Synology C2 cloud services and remote storage solutions, including other Synology NAS devices and S3-compatible platforms.
Recovery Options: Supports bare-metal restoration, file-level recovery via a dedicated portal, and instant VM restores to minimize downtime.
Deduplication and Compression: Global and cross-site deduplication reduces redundant data and optimizes storage efficiency, improving backup speeds.
User and Access Management: Role-based permissions, domain/LDAP integration, and SSO support allow for secure collaboration and administration.
Infrastructure Integration: Compatible with VMware and Hyper-V for VM backups, with options for connecting to Synology NAS or other remote storage for added redundancy.
Performance Monitoring and Control: Real-time insights into backups, storage trends, and bandwidth usage, with advanced options for managing network resources.
Scalable Deployment: Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, with options for larger setups using more advanced DataProtection models.

The ActiveProtect platform forms the operational backbone of the DP320, providing a centralized hub for backup management. The platform’s interface is clean and intuitive, offering administrators visibility into key metrics such as backup operations, supported devices, and data transfer rates. Features like immutability, air-gapped backups, and built-in virtual machine support enhance data security and disaster recovery capabilities. These features make ActiveProtect a reliable option for organizations that prioritize safeguarding critical business data. However, the platform’s highly focused feature set may not appeal to users accustomed to the versatility of DSM.

ActiveProtect provides granular control through customizable protection plans, allowing administrators to configure schedules, retention policies, and backup destinations. These plans can be applied to a wide range of devices, including local desktops, servers, and cloud tenants. Despite its flexibility, the platform restricts each device to a single active protection plan at a time. While this limitation simplifies management, it can be a hindrance for businesses with diverse and complex backup requirements, necessitating careful planning to optimize resource allocation and task execution.

The DP320 integrates seamlessly with Synology’s C2 cloud services and supports other remote storage options, enabling additional layers of redundancy. Administrators can configure backup copies to be stored in C2 Object Storage or compatible Synology NAS devices, creating a hybrid backup strategy that balances physical and cloud-based storage. This capability enhances disaster recovery readiness but requires careful adherence to compatibility requirements, such as activating object lock for C2 buckets. These features reflect Synology’s broader vision of integrating local and cloud resources for comprehensive data protection.

One notable absence is the support for DSM-specific features like Synology Drive and Hyper Backup, which have long been staples of Synology’s ecosystem. ActiveProtect’s narrowly defined feature set reduces deployment complexity but sacrifices the broader utility that DSM typically provides. By positioning ActiveProtect as a standalone platform, Synology is targeting businesses seeking an appliance-like solution tailored to specific backup needs. This decision, however, may alienate users accustomed to the multifunctionality of DSM-based systems.

The DP320’s performance aligns with its backup-oriented design. Initial backups on physical machines achieve average speeds of 45-60MB/s over a local network, with incremental backups completing more quickly, hitting swift turnarounds of 75-80MB/s. The device’s reliance on 1GbE networking, however, can become a bottleneck in environments with substantial data transfer demands. Although the hardware and software are optimized for reliable backup operations, the absence of higher-speed networking limits its applicability for data-intensive tasks, constraining its potential use cases in larger-scale environments.

User management within ActiveProtect is straightforward, offering granular permission settings for backup, restoration, and monitoring. The platform supports integration with domain and LDAP accounts, allowing smooth integration into enterprise networks. However, the lack of two-factor authentication raises concerns about access security, particularly for businesses handling sensitive data. Synology’s decision to exclude more robust security measures could limit the platform’s appeal to organizations with stringent compliance or security requirements, which may see this as a significant drawback.

Integration with Synology’s Active Backup for Business (ABB) provides additional value for existing users. ABB workloads can be migrated to ActiveProtect for centralized management, streamlining operations for businesses that already rely on Synology devices. However, some tasks, such as Synology NAS backups, remain confined to the ABB console. This partial integration creates a disjointed experience for administrators managing a mix of ActiveProtect and DSM-based devices, potentially complicating workflows for users navigating between the two ecosystems.

Support for hypervisors, including VMware and Hyper-V, expands the DP320’s utility in virtualized environments. The device allows instant restoration of virtual machines directly to a hypervisor, ensuring minimal downtime during disaster recovery scenarios.

Despite these capabilities, the lack of compatibility with Proxmox and Synology’s own Virtual Machine Manager (VMM) limits its applicability for organizations using alternative platforms. These compatibility gaps highlight areas where Synology could expand functionality to better meet diverse user needs.

The reliance on the BTRFS file system enables advanced features such as snapshot-based recovery and data deduplication. However, this reliance excludes EXT4 users from certain functionalities, such as the ability to create write-once-read-many (WORM) vaults.

This limitation could inconvenience users transitioning from legacy systems or alternative platforms. By focusing exclusively on BTRFS, Synology underscores its commitment to advanced data protection features, though at the expense of broader compatibility with older or less advanced setups.

ActiveProtect Manager showcases the DP320’s ability to handle diverse workloads, including physical servers and SaaS applications like Microsoft 365. Its user-friendly interface and guided wizards simplify the backup process, even for administrators with limited technical expertise.

However, the system’s scalability is constrained, particularly within the DP320’s hardware configuration, making it more suitable for small to medium-sized businesses. Larger enterprises with more complex needs may find the platform’s limitations restrictive.

The Synology DP320 marks a significant departure from Synology’s traditional NAS offerings, prioritizing dedicated backup functionality over the versatility of DSM. While it meets the needs of businesses seeking a reliable, appliance-like backup solution, it raises questions about the long-term direction of Synology’s product line.

By focusing on a more targeted use case, the DP320 provides a streamlined experience but sacrifices the breadth of capabilities that long-time Synology users have come to expect. Its reception will likely depend on how well it aligns with evolving business needs and user expectations.

Synology DSM vs ActiveProtect? A Fair Trade?

One of the primary limitations of ActiveProtect compared to Synology’s DSM platform is its lack of flexibility and broader functionality.

DSM is designed as a multi-purpose operating system, offering a rich ecosystem of applications such as Synology Drive for file synchronization, Surveillance Station for security management, and Virtual Machine Manager for virtualization needs. ActiveProtect, by contrast, is narrowly focused on backup and disaster recovery, which significantly limits its utility for users seeking an all-in-one solution.

This singular focus means that features many businesses rely on for daily operations are absent, potentially forcing organizations to maintain separate systems or devices to fulfill those needs. Furthermore, DSM allows for extensive customization, from app installations via the Package Center to advanced settings for network, security, and user management. ActiveProtect lacks these options, leaving users with fewer tools to adapt the system to their unique requirements.

Another drawback of ActiveProtect is its rigid hardware and software configurations. Unlike DSM, which supports a wide variety of Synology devices and configurations, ActiveProtect appliances such as the DP320 are prepopulated with specific hard drives and fixed storage setups. Users are unable to customize their hardware during the initial setup or add features like NVMe caching or 10GbE networking. This limited scalability may not meet the needs of businesses that require adaptable and expandable solutions.

Additionally, ActiveProtect does not offer support for third-party applications, further narrowing its capabilities compared to the more versatile DSM platform. These constraints, combined with the exclusion of DSM’s extensive suite of applications, make ActiveProtect a less appealing option for users who value flexibility and the ability to consolidate multiple workloads within a single system.

While its streamlined design and focus on backup simplicity benefit certain use cases, these sacrifices may leave long-time DSM users dissatisfied.

Synology DP320 ActiveProtect Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The Synology DP320 signals a deliberate shift in Synology’s approach, moving from the flexible, feature-rich DSM ecosystem to a more focused and specialized platform with ActiveProtect Manager. As a dedicated backup appliance, it excels in simplifying data protection for small-scale deployments, offering streamlined management, robust security features, and reliable performance. However, this narrowed scope comes at the cost of the versatility that has long been a hallmark of Synology’s devices. The absence of DSM’s broader ecosystem, including applications like Synology Drive and Surveillance Station, along with limited hardware expandability, highlights the DP320’s specific design for backup and disaster recovery.

This focus positions the DP320 as a gateway product, ideal for businesses prioritizing ease of use and centralized backup management without the complexity of a traditional NAS. However, for those accustomed to the flexibility and adaptability of DSM, the DP320 may feel restrictive. Additionally, the introduction of ActiveProtect Manager raises valid concerns about Synology’s commitment to DSM’s future development. ActiveProtect’s exclusivity and the resources required to support a separate software ecosystem may detract from DSM’s evolution, potentially impacting Synology’s broader user base.

The benefits of DSM-based NAS solutions, such as their application flexibility, expandability, and value across multiple use cases, remain unmatched in the industry. Devices powered by DSM continue to offer exceptional utility for businesses and individuals alike, from collaborative tools like Synology Drive to multimedia solutions and advanced backup features such as Hyper Backup and Snapshot Replication. For many users, these features provide significant value beyond simple data protection, making DSM NAS devices an integral part of diverse workflows.

While the DP320 effectively fills a niche as a dedicated backup appliance, its adoption should be weighed against the broader needs of an organization. It is particularly suited for businesses prioritizing a straightforward, low-maintenance backup solution. However, those requiring multi-purpose functionality or who rely heavily on DSM’s ecosystem may find better value in Synology’s traditional NAS offerings. Ultimately, the DP320 represents both an opportunity and a challenge for Synology as it balances the demand for focused solutions like ActiveProtect with the expectations of its long-standing user base.

Synology DP320 NAS Pros

Synology DP320 NAS Cons

Simplified, purpose-built design for backup and disaster recovery.
ActiveProtect Manager offers centralized, intuitive management.
Strong focus on security with immutability and air-gapped backups.
Prepopulated with enterprise-grade drives for easy deployment.
Efficient deduplication reduces storage overhead.
Reliable performance for small to medium-sized businesses.
Integration with Synology C2 cloud enhances hybrid backup strategies.
Streamlined setup and management, ideal for less technical users.
Competitive price per terabyte compared to purchasing a NAS and drives separately.

Limited hardware expandability compared to DSM devices.
Lacks support for DSM’s broad application ecosystem.
Absence of advanced networking options like 10GbE.
Dependency on ActiveProtect limits compatibility with DSM.
Long-term value may be questionable compared to the versatility of a DSM-powered NAS.

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CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS vPro Mobo Review

Rob Andrews

27 décembre 2024 à 18:00

CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS Motherboard Review

The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a strong contender in the ever-expanding DIY mini-server motherboard market. Priced between $239 and $250, this ITX board boasts features like PCIe Gen 5 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, and versatile storage options, catering to home lab enthusiasts and small business setups alike. It is designed for Intel’s 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors, offering users a robust and scalable platform for building custom NAS solutions. This motherboard succeeds its predecessor with noticeable improvements in storage and connectivity, making it more appealing to users looking for cutting-edge performance. It includes eight SATA drive connections over SFF fan out cables (available as an optional purchase), three M.2 NVMe slots, and a single PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot, all in a compact 17x17cm form factor. While it provides a solid foundation for a variety of NAS applications, it also introduces challenges, particularly around memory support, networking limitations, and lane management.

One of the key selling points of the CWWK Q670 is its modularity, allowing users to customize their builds to suit specific needs. However, this flexibility comes with a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with BIOS tuning or component compatibility. Nevertheless, the board is a worthy option for DIY enthusiasts willing to invest time and effort into creating a high-performance storage solution. This review explores the board’s design, hardware, connectivity, and performance to help you decide if the CWWK Q670 is the right choice for your next NAS project.

Note – This is a review of the newer generation version of this NAS motherboard, you can find my review of the previous revision HERE on NASCompares, or HERE on our YouTube Channel

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo Review – Quick Conclusion

The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a versatile and feature-rich platform that caters to a wide range of NAS builders. Its support for modern processors, DDR5 memory, and extensive storage options make it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between performance and scalability. However, its reliance on user customization and the absence of ECC memory or native 10GbE networking may limit its appeal for certain applications. For DIY enthusiasts and experienced NAS builders, the Q670 offers tremendous flexibility and value. Its compact ITX form factor, supporting 8 SATA drives, and PCIe Gen 5 support enable users to create powerful storage solutions tailored to their specific needs. The inclusion of Intel vPro adds an enterprise-grade feature, enhancing its appeal for remote management scenarios. While the board has its quirks, such as tight component placement and reliance on BIOS tuning, these are manageable for users willing to invest time and effort. For most users, the CWWK Q670 serves as a capable and cost-effective foundation for building a high-performance NAS. Bottom line, the CWWK Q670 is a compelling choice for those looking to balance advanced hardware features with affordability. It is not without its limitations, but for those willing to navigate its complexities, it delivers exceptional performance and scalability in a compact package.

BUILD QUALITY - 8/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.6

PROS

A Gen5 M-ITX NAS Mobo...SOLD!

8x SATA Ports (via SFF Fan out x2)

Good scope to support 13th Gen and more CPUs

3x M.2 at Gen 4x4 (one of the 22110)

PCIe 5x16 Slot

Excellent USB Outputs

Full-Length DIMM Memory Support (i.e more memory possible)

Very well priced at just over $200+

CONS

CPU Cooler vs Memory slot placement is VERY tight!

No pre-bundled (CPU/RAM) options

1 PCIe slot (standard M-ITX build) will lead to hard choices about NIC upgrades

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CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Design and Build

The CWWK Q670 packs an impressive array of features into its compact ITX form factor. Its 17x17cm footprint allows for installation in small cases, making it suitable for space-constrained setups. Despite its size, the board incorporates features typically found in larger motherboards, such as eight SATA drives supported, via SFF to SATA fanout cables, and support for DDR5 memory.

The off-white PCB design adds a modern aesthetic, distinguishing it from more generic black boards in the market. Not exactly a dealbreaker – but worthy of note.

Feature	Details
CPU Compatibility	Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors (LGA1700)
Memory	Dual-channel U-DIMM DDR5, 5600MHz (96GB max)
Storage	3 x M.2 PCIe 4.0 (1 x 22110, 2 x 2280), 8 x SATA3 (via 2 SFF-8643)
Networking	2 x 2.5GbE (Intel i226-V and i226-LM with vPro support)
Expansion Slot	1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 (bifurcation supported: 8+8)
USB Ports	1 x USB-C 3.2 (20Gbps), 3 x USB 3.2, 2 x USB 2.0
Video Outputs	HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4 (4K@60Hz)
Power Connector	Standard 24-pin ATX
Form Factor	ITX (17x17cm)

The layout is thoughtfully organized, with memory slots positioned near the CPU socket, and storage interfaces placed for easy cable management. However, the proximity of these components can create challenges when using large CPU coolers or compact NAS cases. Users should carefully consider their cooling solutions, as the board’s compact design can obstruct airflow in certain configurations.

The use of full-sized U-DIMM DDR5 slots is a notable choice, enabling higher memory capacities and speeds than SODIMM alternatives. However, the lack of ECC support may deter users looking for fault-tolerant setups.

The eight SATA connections via SFF are a standout feature, offering excellent storage expandability without the need for additional adapters, simplifying installation and minimizing compatibility issues. The previous gen of this board favoured physical SATA connections.

Overall, the CWWK Q670 strikes a fine balance between size, functionality, and scalability. Its thoughtful design and rich feature set make it a compelling option for those looking to build a high-performance NAS in a compact footprint.

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Ports and Connectivity

The CWWK Q670 excels in connectivity, offering a wide range of ports and interfaces to meet diverse needs. Its dual Intel 2.5GbE Ethernet ports provide reliable networking, one of which supports Intel vPro for BIOS-level remote management. This feature is particularly beneficial for enterprise users or IT administrators who require remote access for troubleshooting or system configuration.

The rear I/O panel features HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4, capable of outputting 4K@60Hz resolution. These are useful for initial setup or troubleshooting, especially for users running graphical interfaces on their NAS. While video output is not typically essential for headless server applications, its inclusion adds flexibility for multi-purpose builds.

USB connectivity includes a single USB-C 3.2 port with 20Gbps bandwidth, three USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 ports. Additionally, the board includes internal headers for USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, allowing users to add front-panel connections or bootable storage devices. The presence of an internal USB 2.0 port is a thoughtful addition, making it ideal for booting NAS operating systems like UnRAID directly from a USB drive.

The board’s PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot offers significant expandability, enabling users to install GPUs, high-speed NICs, or storage accelerators. Bifurcation support (8+8) further enhances its versatility, allowing users to connect multiple devices simultaneously. However, the single PCIe slot requires careful planning, as it must accommodate both networking and storage upgrades in most builds.

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Storage and Expandability

Storage is one of the key strengths of the CWWK Q670, 8x SATA media and three M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots offering ample capacity for large-scale data storage and high-speed applications.

The two SFF-8643 connectors simplify the integration of multiple SATA drives, eliminating the need for adapters or complex wiring setups. This makes the board particularly appealing for users planning to build RAID arrays or multi-drive setups.

The three M.2 NVMe slots are positioned strategically to maximize cooling and accessibility. One slot supports the longer 22110 form factor, ideal for high-capacity SSDs with improved heat dissipation. The other two slots support the more common 2280 size. Performance testing revealed read speeds of 5-5.6GB/s and write speeds of 3.7-3.8GB/s, which are consistent with PCIe 4.0 standards.

However, users should note that storage performance can vary significantly depending on the CPU and configuration. Lane-sharing between the PCIe and M.2 slots may lead to bottlenecks in certain setups, particularly when multiple high-speed drives are in use. Transfers between NVMe drives showed reduced throughput (~1GB/s), highlighting the need for careful resource management.

The PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot adds further storage flexibility, supporting advanced SSD expansion cards or bifurcation for multiple devices. This makes the Q670 an excellent choice for flash-based servers, provided users are prepared to invest in compatible components and optimize their configurations.

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Performance Potential

Performance testing on the CWWK Q670 revealed a capable and efficient platform, capable of handling demanding workloads with ease. Using an Intel i5-12500 CPU and 16GB DDR5 memory, the board delivered consistent results across a variety of benchmarks. Idle power consumption was measured at ~30W, while load conditions with active drives peaked at 57-58W.

NVMe performance was a particular highlight, with read/write speeds reaching 5-6GB/s under optimal conditions. While these speeds are impressive, lane-sharing and resource allocation in the BIOS may limit performance in more complex setups. For example, transferring data between NVMe drives resulted in reduced speeds (~1GB/s), underscoring the need for careful configuration.

Networking performance, while reliable, may be a limiting factor for some users. The dual 2.5GbE ports provide adequate bandwidth for most home and small business applications but fall short for larger-scale deployments. Users requiring higher throughput will need to invest in a PCIe-based NIC or USB-C adapters, adding to the overall cost and complexity.

Ultimately, the CWWK Q670’s performance is highly dependent on the components selected and the time invested in BIOS optimization. While it offers a strong foundation for a high-performance NAS, its full potential can only be unlocked through careful planning and customization.

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Review Verdict and Conclusion

The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a versatile and feature-rich platform that caters to a wide range of NAS builders. Its support for modern processors, DDR5 memory, and extensive storage options make it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between performance and scalability. However, its reliance on user customization and the absence of ECC memory or native 10GbE networking may limit its appeal for certain applications. For DIY enthusiasts and experienced NAS builders, the Q670 offers tremendous flexibility and value. Its compact ITX form factor, supporting 8 SATA drives, and PCIe Gen 5 support enable users to create powerful storage solutions tailored to their specific needs.

The inclusion of Intel vPro support (CPU dependant) adds an enterprise-grade feature, enhancing its appeal for remote management scenarios. While the board has its quirks, such as tight component placement and reliance on BIOS tuning, these are manageable for users willing to invest time and effort. For most users, the CWWK Q670 serves as a capable and cost-effective foundation for building a high-performance NAS. Bottom line, the CWWK Q670 is a compelling choice for those looking to balance advanced hardware features with affordability. It is not without its limitations, but for those willing to navigate its complexities, it delivers exceptional performance and scalability in a compact package.

PROs of the CWWK Q670 v.2 NAS Motherboard	CONs of the CWWK Q670 v.2 NAS Motherboard
A Gen5 M-ITX NAS Mobo…SOLD! 8x SATA Ports (via SFF Fan out x2) Good scope to support 13th Gen and more CPUs 3x M.2 at Gen 4×4 (one of the 22110) PCIe 5×16 Slot Excellent USB Outputs Full-Length DIMM Memory Support (i.e more memory possible) Very well priced at just over $200+	CPU Cooler vs Memory slot placement is VERY tight! No pre-bundled (CPU/RAM) options 1 PCIe slot (standard M-ITX build) will lead to hard choices about NIC upgrades

Where to Buy?

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

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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.

N305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS Motherboard Review – BUDGET BRILLIANT DIY NAS BUILD?

Rob Andrews

20 décembre 2024 à 18:00

The N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard with 10GbE – Should You Buy It?

If you’re considering a custom NAS or server build, the N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard with 10GbE offers an enticing mix of performance, power efficiency, and networking prowess. Designed with modern demands in mind, it combines Intel’s Alder Lake-N processors with a robust set of connectivity options, including a standout 10GbE port. Whether for personal media servers, small office NAS setups, or edge computing, this motherboard brings noteworthy improvements over its predecessors. Let’s explore its design, hardware, connectivity, and practical applications.

NOTE 1 – A version of this motherboard has appeared that features a x4 PCIe slot, but it is shared with the 2nd M.2 slot. You can learn more about it HERE on the Amazon listing

NOTE 2 – The review of the N100 version of this motherboard is now live and HERE on YouTube and HERE on the blog

Where to Buy the 10GbE N300/N305 NAS MoBo?

Aliexpress $138.96 (N100 10GbE, No Memory or SSD) – HERE
Aliexpress $214.99 (N300 10GbE, 8GB Memory, 128GB OS SSD) – HERE
Check Amazon HERE

Topton MW-N305-NAS ITX DiY NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The Topton MW-N305-NAS motherboard is an affordable M-ITX option for basic NAS setups, featuring a low-power yet high capability 8 core i3 CPU, dual 2.5GbE ports, and a rare built-in 10GbE port for faster data transfer. With six SATA ports and two M.2 slots, it offers versatile storage options, although the M.2 slots are limited to PCIe Gen 3 x1, restricting maximum speeds. While the lack of a PCIe slot and ECC support may limit its appeal for advanced users, the N305 10G NAS board performs reliably for general NAS tasks like file storage, backups, and moderate streaming. It’s best suited for budget-conscious users who need a compact and low-power NAS with decent networking options, though not for those requiring extensive expandability or high-speed processing. It’s a shame about the lack of PCIe upgradability (there is a split m.2/PCIe x4 version from Topton in the market), but aside from that, it is incredibly difficult to fault this value 10GbE DIY NAS offering!

BUILD QUALITY - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.4

PROS

Affordable price for an ITX motherboard with 10GbE networking capabilities.

Built-in 10GbE port (Marvell AQC113C) and dual 2.5GbE ports (Intel i226-V) for versatile networking options.

Low power consumption (6W TDP for CPU), suitable for continuous 24/7 operation.

Six SATA 3.0 ports and two M.2 NVMe slots, providing flexible storage configuration options.

Compact form factor, making it ideal for small NAS builds and limited-space installations.

Supports up to 32GB of DDR5 memory, which is adequate for general NAS use.

Low heat output with stable thermal performance, reducing the need for extensive cooling.

User-friendly BIOS with customization options for PCI and USB settings.

CONS

No PCIe slot, limiting expansion options for additional hardware like GPUs or other high-speed components.

Lacks ECC memory support, which is often preferred in NAS setups for data integrity.

M.2 slots are limited to PCIe Gen 3 x1 lanes, restricting maximum speed for high-performance applications.

Requires a 300W power supply despite low power demands, adding potential extra cost and size requirements.

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N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Design and Build Quality

The N305 10GbE motherboard adheres to the Mini-ITX standard (17cm x 17cm), making it an excellent choice for compact builds. Its matte black PCB not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also signifies durability, with an 8-layer high-density fiber design that provides resistance against environmental stressors like moisture. This level of build quality ensures long-term reliability, critical for 24/7 NAS operation or server usage.

One of the key selling points of this model is its ability to balance compactness with functionality. Despite its small footprint, the board integrates a range of advanced components, including the Intel Alder Lake-N N305 CPU and a robust networking stack.

Thermal management is supported with well-placed headers for CPU and system cooling fans, ensuring stable performance even under continuous operation.

A notable upgrade in this model is the inclusion of a 10GbE LAN port, alongside two 2.5GbE ports. These features position the N305 as a professional-grade option, capable of handling demanding data transfer and network management tasks. The board also supports dual M.2 NVMe slots and six SATA3.0 ports, offering ample storage flexibility for SSDs and HDDs alike.

Component	Details
CPU	Intel Alder Lake-N N305, 8 Threads, 3.8 GHz boost
Memory	1x SO-DIMM DDR5 (4800-5600MHz), up to 32GB
Networking	1x 10GbE (Marvell AQC113C), 2x 2.5GbE (Intel i226-V)
Storage	6x SATA3.0, 2x M.2 NVMe (PCIe 3.0, 2280)
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics, 4K@60Hz via HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4b
Power	ATX 24+4 Pin, minimum 300W PSU recommended

With its thoughtful design and robust specifications, the N305 10GbE motherboard proves to be a versatile and compact solution for users requiring reliability and high performance in a small form factor.

N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Processor and Performance

The heart of this motherboard is the Intel Alder Lake-N N305 processor, an 8-thread chip with a maximum clock speed of 3.8 GHz. Designed with efficiency in mind, it features a modest TDP of 9-15W, making it ideal for systems running 24/7.

This processor delivers the computational power needed for a wide range of applications, from lightweight virtualization to handling multiple network clients in a NAS setup. I tested the N305 NAS mobo and below are the stats power consumption numbers for both IDLE and 30-50% power use with all drives in use. Testing revealed idle power consumption of just 27-28 watts with six connected drives in hibernation, and a peak utilization of 64-66 watts under heavy RAID 5 operations across six hard drives via 10GbE.

Built on Intel’s Alder Lake-N architecture, the N305 achieves a balance between energy efficiency and performance. This makes it particularly suitable for edge computing, media streaming, and private cloud hosting. Whether you’re transcoding videos for Plex or running containerized workloads in Docker, this CPU handles it all with ease. Additionally, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics (32 execution units) ensures smooth playback of 4K media.

Memory performance on this board is another highlight. The single SO-DIMM DDR5 slot supports frequencies up to 5600MHz and capacities of up to 32GB, delivering fast data access speeds. This enables seamless multitasking and rapid handling of large files, critical for NAS environments where throughput is essential. While the single memory slot may limit scalability for some, it fits well with the board’s compact and power-efficient design. That said, even with it’s more affordable price, the lack of ECC memory support (both a CPU and MoBo limitation) is going to be a dealbreaker for storage veterans.

The N305’s low power consumption doesn’t compromise its capabilities. It can handle a surprising range of tasks for a CPU of its class, making it suitable for both personal and small business setups. The combination of processing power, efficiency, and modern architecture makes this motherboard a compelling choice for users looking to maximize performance without incurring high energy costs.

M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Ports and Connections

Ports and connections are a critical factor for any motherboard, and the N305 doesn’t disappoint. Its rear I/O panel includes a rich mix of options, catering to various connectivity needs.

The standout feature is the 10GbE LAN port, supported by the Marvell AQC113C chipset, which is complemented by two 2.5GbE LAN ports for additional network flexibility.

This combination allows users to configure advanced setups, such as load balancing or link aggregation.

For display outputs, the board features HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4b, both supporting 4K@60Hz resolution. These ports ensure crisp visuals for administrative tasks, media playback, or light graphical workloads. Additionally, a 3.5mm audio jack powered by the Realtek ALC897 codec provides basic audio output, suitable for most NAS or server setups.

USB connectivity includes a mix of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, alongside a Type-C port (albeit limited to USB 2.0 speeds). Internally, headers for additional USB ports and front-panel connectivity provide customization options, enhancing the board’s adaptability for various builds.

Port Type	Details
LAN	1x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE
Display	HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4b (4K@60Hz support)
USB	1x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x Type-C (USB 2.0 rate)
Audio	3.5mm jack (Realtek ALC897 codec)
Internal Headers	USB 2.0, fan control, front panel

Internally, the motherboard is equipped with headers for fan control, USB expansion, and front-panel connections, ensuring that builders can optimize cooling and functionality. The thoughtful inclusion of multiple ports and expansion headers makes the N305 10GbE motherboard suitable for a wide range of applications, from data-intensive NAS setups to compact home labs.

M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Storage Capabilities

Storage flexibility is one of the N305’s strongest features. The board includes six SATA3.0 ports, capable of speeds up to 6Gbps, ideal for building RAID arrays or connecting multiple high-capacity drives.

These ports are managed by the JMB585 controller, which ensures efficient throughput and compatibility with various storage devices.

The two M.2 NVMe slots provide high-speed storage options for caching or boot drives. These slots are PCIe 3.0 x1, supporting 2280-sized drives, and deliver sequential read/write speeds sufficient for most NAS or server needs.

#However, one M.2 slot shares its signal with the PCIe x1 lane, requiring users to carefully plan resource allocation depending on their build priorities.

The storage setup also supports features like TRIM for SSDs and port multiplier configurations, allowing users to expand their storage options further. This is particularly useful for creating large-scale NAS setups, where maximizing drive connectivity is a priority.

The performance of the MW-N305-NAS motherboard showcases a balance of efficiency and capability for its price point. Storage speeds on the six SATA ports, powered by a JMB 58x controller on a Gen 3×1 lane, achieved sequential read and write rates of approximately 495 MB/s and 350-380 MB/s respectively.

While the 10GbE Aquantia AQC113C controller delivered fully saturated 10GbE throughput, the advertised USB 20Gbps port fell short, maxing out at 1GB/s during tests. Despite its modest clock speeds and limited PCIe lanes, the MW-N305-NAS excels as a cost-effective, low-power NAS motherboard for DIY builders, especially when considering its compact ITX form factor and versatile connectivity. In short – SATA HDD performance over the single 10GbE connection was pretty standard and acceptable, and the 3×1 lane allocation to each m.2 resulted in the expected sub 1GB internal throughput. The two M.2 NVMe slots, also Gen 3×1, reached read speeds of 783 MB/s and write speeds around 655-690 MB/s, performing consistently within the bandwidth constraints.

Transferring data between each m.2 SSD inside the system (1GB repeated file write) dropped performance down noticeably, but again – this was largely expected and based on the lane speed downgrades, hardly surprising.

Storage Type	Details
SATA Ports	6x SATA3.0 (6Gbps), JMB585 controller
M.2 NVMe	2x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots (2280 size)
TRIM Support	Yes
Port Multiplier	Yes

Whether for storing media libraries, backing up critical data, or running virtual machines, the N305 offers a robust and flexible storage solution. Despite its compact size, the board’s thoughtful design ensures that users can configure it for both speed and capacity. This makes it a compelling option for anyone looking to build a high-performance, high-capacity NAS or server, with the flexibility to scale storage as needed.

The N305 10GbE Motherboard – Should You Buy It?

As of 2024, the N305 M-ITX NAS motherboard with 10GbE represents a versatile and cost-effective platform for users seeking a combination of performance, power efficiency, and robust connectivity. With its Alder Lake-N processor, DDR5 memory support, and standout 10GbE networking capabilities, it delivers exceptional value for its price. This motherboard is particularly well-suited for applications like Plex Media Server, Proxmox virtual machines, or UnRAID/TrueNAS setups, where both processing power and network bandwidth are critical. Its comprehensive storage options and energy-efficient design further solidify its place as a top contender in the compact NAS and server motherboard market.

However, users with high expansion needs or enterprise-level requirements may find its PCIe lane limitations a challenge. For most small-scale and prosumer applications, though, it strikes an excellent balance between capability and efficiency. Whether you’re building a new media server or upgrading an existing NAS, the N305 10GbE motherboard is a strong choice that offers modern features and flexibility in a compact package.

PROS	CONs
Affordable price for an ITX motherboard with 10GbE networking capabilities. Built-in 10GbE port (Marvell AQC113C) and dual 2.5GbE ports (Intel i226-V) for versatile networking options. Low power consumption (6-10W TDP for CPU), suitable for continuous 24/7 operation. Six SATA 3.0 ports and two M.2 NVMe slots, providing flexible storage configuration options. Compact form factor, making it ideal for small NAS builds and limited-space installations. Supports up to 32GB of DDR5 memory, which is adequate for general NAS use. Low heat output with stable thermal performance, reducing the need for extensive cooling. User-friendly BIOS with customization options for PCI and USB settings.	No PCIe slot, limiting expansion options for additional hardware like GPUs or other high-speed components. Lacks ECC memory support, which is often preferred in NAS setups for data integrity. M.2 slots are limited to PCIe Gen 3 x1 lanes, restricting maximum speed for high-performance applications.

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS – SHOULD YOU BUY?

Rob Andrews

16 décembre 2024 à 18:00

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus – Should You Buy?

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is one of the most compact yet powerful NAS solutions available in 2024. With its 8-bay, all-SSD configuration and small form factor, it stands out in a crowded market for small businesses and tech enthusiasts looking for high-performance storage. It promises to deliver fast speeds, silent operation, and a robust RAID system that offers flexibility for future upgrades. But is it the right NAS for you? Designed with both professional and domestic users in mind, the F8 SSD Plus supports demanding tasks like virtualization, database management, and media streaming while maintaining an impressively small footprint. With TerraMaster’s latest operating system (TOS 6), this NAS not only aims to be powerful but user-friendly, offering a versatile range of features suitable for different use cases. Let’s break down what I love and what I hate about the F8 SSD PLUS NAS.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

You really have to give Terramaster credit for the F8 SSD Plus, as it stands out impressively among the many brands entering the dedicated flash SSD storage market recently. Despite its compact size, it offers more storage than most competitors, though long-term users may be concerned about heat management. Terramaster has addressed this with effective heatsink placement, angled airflow, and necessary SSD performance adjustments to control temperature. While not perfect and lacking some high-end business features like ECC memory and network failover, it suits prosumers, enthusiasts, and small to medium businesses. Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases will benefit from this system, despite the absence of some enterprise-level hardware. The TOS 6 software has improved significantly, offering a wide array of features such as flexible RAID, BTRFS support, multi-tiered backup, and more. Though the “Windows 11” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, and there is a notable absence of ZFS, the ability to install third-party OS options like UnRAID and TrueNAS adds versatility. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a capable, affordable, and impressive NAS solution, holding its own in a competitive market for 2024/2025, even if it doesn’t match the software flair of Synology or the aggressive hardware approach of QNAP.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.

Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.

Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.

Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.

Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.

Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.

Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.

Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.

Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

CONS

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.

Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.

Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.

No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now?

Why You Should Consider the F8 SSD Plus

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus shines in many areas, offering a powerful and compact solution for those in need of fast, reliable NAS storage. With its cutting-edge hardware, flexible RAID options, and user-friendly software, it stands out as an excellent choice for both small businesses and tech-savvy individuals. Let’s explore the key strengths that make this NAS a solid investment for your storage needs.

Compact and High-Capacity Design

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus stands out for its compact design and massive storage capacity. Despite its small size—comparable to a paperback book—it houses eight M.2 NVMe SSD slots that can hold up to 64TB of storage. This makes it a highly efficient choice for users who need substantial storage but don’t have much physical space to spare. Whether you’re a small business managing large databases or a media professional working with high-resolution video files, the F8 SSD Plus delivers excellent performance in a small, space-saving package.

Moreover, its all-SSD architecture means that this NAS is not only faster than its HDD-based counterparts but also operates much more quietly. This is a key advantage for users who need their NAS to function in environments where noise can be a distraction, such as offices or home studios. By using solid-state drives exclusively, the F8 SSD Plus significantly reduces noise, heat, and power consumption compared to traditional NAS systems. This makes it perfect for users looking for a compact yet high-performance storage solution without the drawbacks of mechanical hard drives.

High-Speed Performance with Intel i3

Another key feature of the F8 SSD Plus is its high-speed performance, thanks to its Intel Core i3 processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. The 8-core CPU provides plenty of processing power for high-demand tasks like virtualization, database management, and multimedia editing. Whether you’re running multiple virtual machines or editing 4K video, this NAS can handle it. Paired with a 10GbE Ethernet port, it ensures rapid data transfer, giving users quick access to their files and resources across the network.

This robust processing power makes the F8 SSD Plus especially suited for small businesses that require reliable, fast data processing without investing in bulky or expensive rack-mounted servers. It’s also a great fit for media professionals who need to work with large video files and require fast, seamless read/write capabilities. The Intel i3 CPU provides enough speed and power to keep everything running smoothly, while the 10GbE port ensures that file transfers happen at optimal speeds.

Flexible RAID Options with TRAID

A major selling point of the F8 SSD Plus is its flexible RAID options, particularly TerraMaster’s TRAID technology. Unlike traditional RAID configurations that lock you into specific drive sizes and capacities, TRAID allows you to mix and match SSDs over time, upgrading as your storage needs grow without losing data. This is an excellent feature for future-proofing your NAS, as SSD prices continue to drop and larger capacities become more affordable.

This flexibility makes the F8 SSD Plus an attractive option for users who want to start with smaller, more affordable drives and upgrade as needed. Instead of being locked into a particular drive configuration, users can easily swap in larger SSDs down the line, taking advantage of price drops and newer technology. For businesses and power users who need their NAS to evolve with their storage requirements, the F8 SSD Plus offers a smart, scalable solution.

User-Friendly TOS 6 Software

The user-friendly software bundled with the F8 SSD Plus is another reason to consider this NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system offers an intuitive and feature-rich user experience. It includes support for virtualization, Docker containers, snapshots, and comprehensive backup solutions, making it a versatile platform for both business and personal use. Whether you’re managing data backups or running a multimedia server, TOS 6 provides a modern, responsive interface to streamline your workflow.

Additionally, the F8 SSD Plus allows for third-party OS installations like TrueNAS and Unraid, offering flexibility for users who prefer different software environments. This feature ensures that tech-savvy users can customize their NAS experience to fit specific needs, without compromising on performance or reliability. With TOS 6 or an alternative OS, the F8 SSD Plus adapts to a variety of use cases, from virtualized environments to high-speed data backup.

Keep in mind however, that the TOS NAS software is still no rival for well established NAS software platforms such as Synology DSM, QNAP QuTS, TrueNAS and UnRAID.

Considerations Before Buying

While the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus boasts a range of impressive features, it’s important to consider some potential limitations before making a decision. Like any NAS system, the F8 SSD Plus has areas where it might not fully meet the needs of every user. Whether it’s performance constraints, memory concerns, or certain design choices, these factors could influence whether this NAS is the right fit for you. Let’s take a closer look at the key drawbacks you should be aware of.

Hardware	F8 SSD	F8 SSD PLUS
Processor Model	Intel N95	Intel® i3 N305
Processor Architecture	X.86 64-bit	X.86 64-bit
Processor Frequency	Max burst up to 3.4 GHz	Max burst up to 3.8 GHz
System Memory	8 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM	16 GB DDR5 non-ECC SODIMM
Pre-installed Memory	8 GB DDR5 (1x 8 GB)	16 GB DDR5 (1x 16 GB)
Total Memory Slots	1 (DDR5 SODIMM)	1 (DDR5 SODIMM)
Maximum Supported Memory	32 GB DDR5	32 GB DDR5
Maximum Internal Raw Storage Capacity	64 TB (8 TB x 8)	64 TB (8 TB x 8)
Drive Hot Swap	Yes	Yes
Hardware Encryption Engine	Yes	Yes
Hardware Transcoding Engine	H.264, H.265, MPEG-4, VC-1	H.264, H.265, MPEG-4, VC-1
Transcoding Max Resolution	4K (4096 x 2160)	4K (4096 x 2160)
Transcoding Max FPS	60	60

Limited Gen 3 SSD Speeds

Despite its strengths, the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus does have some limitations, particularly in terms of SSD speed. The M.2 slots in this NAS only support Gen 3 x1 speeds, which caps each SSD’s performance at around 1,000MB/s. While this might be sufficient for many users, it can be a bottleneck for those who need to fully leverage high-performance SSDs. If you’re planning to use top-tier Gen 3 or Gen 4 SSDs, you might not be able to utilize their full potential with this NAS.

This limitation could be a concern for media professionals or businesses that require extremely fast read/write speeds for tasks like video editing or high-demand database applications. Even though the overall performance is solid, the restricted SSD speed might hold back users who need every ounce of performance from their storage. For those users, it’s worth considering whether the speed trade-off is justified by the NAS’s other strengths, like compactness and flexibility.

No ECC Memory

Another potential drawback is the lack of ECC memory. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory is often preferred in data-critical environments because it helps prevent data corruption by detecting and correcting errors in real-time. The F8 SSD Plus does not feature ECC memory, which might be a dealbreaker for users handling sensitive or mission-critical data. For businesses that prioritize data integrity, especially in virtualization and database scenarios, this omission could be a significant downside.

While the system’s 16GB of DDR5 RAM is fast and capable, some users may feel that ECC memory is essential for ensuring data stability. Particularly at this price point, the absence of ECC memory might be seen as a missed opportunity for TerraMaster to appeal to enterprise users who demand the highest level of data security. If data accuracy is a top priority for your workflow, it’s worth weighing this factor carefully.

Single 10GbE Port

Another consideration is the single 10GbE port. While the inclusion of 10GbE is a huge advantage for networking speed, the fact that the F8 SSD Plus only has one port might limit its networking potential for more advanced users. For most users, a single 10GbE port will be sufficient, but for those needing to handle multiple high-speed connections or larger-scale environments, this could be a bottleneck.

Note, USB to 5GbE and 2.5GbE adapters CAN be used, for as little as $30

The potential bottleneck becomes more noticeable when handling very large data sets or multiple users accessing the system simultaneously. In a multi-user environment, the single 10GbE port might not provide enough throughput to fully take advantage of the NAS’s speed and SSD performance. If your usage requires extensive network bandwidth, this is something to keep in mind before deciding.

Mid-Tier CPU

Finally, the Intel i3 CPU, while strong, may not be powerful enough for users with the highest processing demands. In 2024, there are NAS systems available with even more powerful processors, such as Intel’s i5 or AMD Ryzen models, which offer superior performance for heavy workloads like 4K video editing, large-scale virtualization, or enterprise-level tasks.

Although the i3 CPU delivers solid performance for small businesses and multimedia tasks, users with more intensive needs might find it limiting. The lack of extra power lanes for the SSDs and network could restrict performance in high-demand environments, making this NAS a less appealing option for enterprise use. If raw processing power is your priority, it’s worth considering whether a higher-tier CPU would be a better fit for your needs.

Verdict – Is the Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Any Good?

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus offers a compelling combination of compact design, high performance, and flexible storage options, making it a strong contender in the 8-bay NAS market for 2024. It excels in environments where space and noise are a concern, delivering excellent performance for small businesses, media professionals, and tech enthusiasts alike. With features like flexible TRAID technology and a powerful Intel Core i3 processor, it’s a great option for users who need fast, scalable storage.

However, potential buyers should consider the limitations, such as the restricted SSD speeds and the lack of ECC memory, especially if they require the highest levels of performance and data protection. For most users, the F8 SSD Plus strikes a great balance between power and practicality, but those with more demanding needs may want to explore other options. In summary, if you’re looking for a compact, high-performance NAS that can grow with your storage needs, the F8 SSD Plus is definitely worth considering.

PROs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS

CONs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.
Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.
Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.
Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.
Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.
Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.
Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.
Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.
Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.
No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 NAS Case Review

Rob Andrews

11 décembre 2024 à 18:00

Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 NAS Case Review

Building your own NAS server from scratch is an endeavor largely made up of two main hurdles: choosing the inside and choosing the outside! Most of the time, the hardest choices are going to be picking the right CPU, the right motherboard, the right connections, and of course, provisioning for your storage plans. However, all of those great decisions you make on picking the inside of your server can be immediately undermined if you make poor choices on the enclosure that you choose to use for your DIY NAS. One brand that hopes to earn the right to store your data is Phalcomm, with a new compact NAS server enclosure. Arriving at around $150 to $200, this is about average for a DIY 8-bay NAS box in 2024/2025. So, what does this brand hope to provide in its NAS enclosure that you can’t just get elsewhere? That’s what today’s review is about, and hopefully, by the end of this review, you’ll decide whether the Phalcomm L8 deserves your data.

Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 8-Bay NAS Case Review – Quick Conclusion

The Phalcomm L8 NAS case provides a solid, compact option for DIY NAS builders, accommodating both ITX and ATX motherboards while supporting up to eight SATA drives. Its design is straightforward, featuring a durable steel enclosure with extensive passive ventilation on all sides, allowing for efficient airflow. With multiple fan mounting options—up to five fans can be installed—users have the flexibility to enhance cooling based on their specific needs. Inside, the case offers a spacious layout, making it easy to install components such as the motherboard, CPU cooler (up to 158mm in height), and PSU. However, some drawbacks include the absence of pre-installed fans, which competitors often include at a similar price point, and a lack of front-mounted features like drive trays or LCD panels. Additionally, the case does not come with essential cables like SATA or power, requiring further investment to complete the setup. Overall, the Phalcomm L8 is a well-constructed enclosure with room for customization, though users should be prepared for extra expenses to fully optimize its performance and functionality.

BUILD QUALITY - 7/10

DURABILITY - 8/10

EXPANDABILITY - 8/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

7.4

PROS

Compact Design: Despite supporting eight SATA drives and ITX/ATX motherboards, the case is surprisingly compact compared to other NAS enclosures.

Flexible Motherboard Support: Compatible with both ITX and ATX motherboards, offering flexibility for different build configurations.

Extensive Ventilation: Features passive ventilation on every side, ensuring good airflow and potential for keeping components cool.

Multiple Fan Mounting Options: The case has five optional fan mounting locations, allowing for customizable active cooling.

Spacious Interior: Provides plenty of room for motherboard and CPU cooler installation, supporting CPU coolers up to 158mm in height.

PCIe Expansion Support: Includes several PCIe expansion slots for additional components, allowing for future upgrades.

Easy Access for Installation: Removable storage cage and clear internal layout make motherboard and component installation straightforward.

Unique PSU Mounting: The PSU is mounted with copper risers to ensure proper airflow and space management, preventing overheating.

CONS

No Included Fans: Unlike some competitors, the Phalcomm L8 doesn’t come with any pre-installed fans, requiring additional purchases for active cooling.

Limited Front Features: The front panel lacks typical NAS features such as ejectable trays, LCD panels, or drive indicators.

Tight Fan Fit in the Front Cavity: Space is limited for front fans, which may lead to less-than-ideal installation, impacting airflow.

No Included Cables: The case does not come with SATA or power cables, which are essential for setting up the system.

Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 Case Review – Design

The enclosure design is actually pretty ordinary, and it’s only when you realize that this system can house eight SATA storage drives and supports both ITX and ATX motherboards that the deceptively compact enclosure stands out. Arriving a fraction smaller than a number of other ATX motherboard-supporting NAS boxes in the market, this system has a relatively unique approach to drive injection that I will touch on later in more detail.

The front of the system is surprisingly low in detail compared with other NAS chassis. For example, there is a complete lack of front-mounted ejectable trays. The system features a front-mounted USB and its power button, but that’s really it. No included LCD panel, and little to no drive indication immediately visible. The casing is 1mm thick steel, in matte black, but is not available in any other color currently.

What the case does feature in excess is passive ventilation. With the exception of the base of the enclosure, the L8 features ventilation on every single side. Absolutely tons of passive airflow are going to be possible in every direction on this case when it is deployed. Passive ventilation is only half the battle, of course, as you will still need to factor in active cooling systems with strategically placed fans in order to facilitate that airflow throughout your components and ensure that the system remains at a highly operable and efficient temperature. However, it’s worth highlighting that the system does not actually include any fans with the enclosure.

The case includes numerous screw holes and included screws for mounting fans in several different locations of the enclosure, but you are going to need to purchase these fans separately. For example, underneath the top panel of this enclosure, we find a rigid framing panel that rests over the top of the motherboard section and allows you to install two 120mm fans to supply active airflow to the motherboard.

Likewise, the rear of the enclosure also features screw holes for an 80mm fan to be mounted to draw further airflow across the internal components of the L8.

Finally, the front panel of the L8 can be removed to expose two individual 120mm fan mounting areas. This brings the total number of optional fans that you can mount on this system to five, which is pretty impressive for such a compact NAS chassis. Nevertheless, it does seem a little cheap for this system to not include even a single fan, when comparative NAS enclosures from brands such as Jonsbo and Highpoint all include active cooling fans alongside the empty enclosures as standard, at a similar price to this.

Additionally, you have to be a little selective on the fans that you plan to install in the front cavity, as space is a little compact. Although fans can technically be mounted on the inside of the enclosure to accommodate slightly larger models, this does protrude into the internal hardware a little and is far less desirable.

I can’t really fault the overall chassis design of the L8 in what it’s trying to achieve in providing a large scope for different NAS hardware configurations, but I really do wish the brand had put their hand in their pocket a little more and supplied active cooling fans with this NAS enclosure. Let’s discuss the internal build architecture of the L8.

Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 Case – Inside

The top of the chassis is held in place by two screws on the rear of the enclosure, which, when removed, completely expose the L8’s internal motherboard, PCIe, and PSU installation sections, as well as the 8-bay storage cage that is mounted on two sides to the edges of the enclosure casing.

In order to access the cavity for installing your motherboard, you are going to need to remove that SATA storage cage. The system arrives with the cage fitted directly to an internal PCB that features individual data and power inputs. However, the system does not arrive with SATA cables, Molex power cables, or any of the small but crucial extras you are going to need to build a NAS here. Removing the SATA cage temporarily shows us the full internal cavity and all of the individual mounting screws for different kinds of motherboards clearly accessible.

There’s actually a fairly massive amount of space afforded to the motherboard and CPU cooler installation. This enclosure supports CPU coolers up to 158mm in height, which is pretty generous for both ITX and ATX NAS motherboard deployment. I will touch on slight spacing concerns between the CPU cooler and the PSU later on, but for now, you can see via the image below just how much space is afforded to you and how little space an MITX motherboard takes up when installed inside here, even with my tallest CPU cooler installed.

Likewise, even when I installed an M-ATX motherboard, there was still plenty of room to play with, and as long as you aren’t going to be utilizing a particularly aggressive CPU cooler on your 24/7 NAS server deployment, there’s lots of room for growth here.

Additionally, despite this case being a little compact, it features a myriad of PCIe expansion slots that can be punched out on the exterior of the enclosure. Thanks to modern PCIe risers, intelligently built expansion cards, and M.2 to PCIe adaptors in the market, it’s actually surprisingly easy these days for a NAS user to find ways and means to fully utilize all of that PCIe upgradable goodness.

This, however, leads me to the installation of the PSU/internal power supply in this system. In order for its rather compact design to work, certain creative choices have been made to install a PSU comfortably around the other components. Like a few other more compact NAS enclosures on the market from well-established brands, the L8 features an internal mains power extension cable. This means that although the external rear casing features a mains power female socket, it is in reality feeding into an extension cable to the location of the PSU block, which actually lives at the front right of the chassis.

The mounting of the PSU inside the L8 case is actually a little unique. The PSU is held at the top of the casing via four individual copper risers that not only hold the PSU in place in its raised position but also ensure that the PSU is around 1-2cm away from the enclosure wall, ensuring enough space to use the angled mains power cable correctly while still ensuring that the PSU fan is angled appropriately toward the enclosure’s ventilation panel.

Nevertheless, we DO need to discuss the elephant in the room. Namely, the proximity and placement generally of the PSU in conjunction with the CPU Cooler. IF you plan on using a lower profile CPU cooler, then this will be zero issue at all. However, the maximum of the CPU cooler size and PSU (namely 158mm and 160mm respectively) result in a tremendously close placement of the CPU fan and the internal PSU.

This is by no means a deal breaker, but it is worth keeping this in mind when looking at a compact case like this that it can impact a lot of the component placement. A NAS is designed to be on 24×7 so there is of course the argument that high end power-use deployment is not going to be as common as gamer PC building, so larger CPU heatsinks and powerhouse PSUs are less used in server use (electricity bills!), but there is no avoiding that the placement of the PSU and CPU fan are, in efforts to keep this case compact, very close indeed!

The F Panel cable is fairly standard, but its a little bit of a shame that it only supports 5Gb/s and USB Type A only (so no USB-C or 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 support – which is increasingly common on even the most modest NAS optimized mobos from Topton, CWWK, etc). Not ‘bad’, but a little underwhelming for the price in 2024/2025.

Overall, you cannot fault the build quality internally, but the scope of deployment and how much you can do with the afforded space is oddly conflicted. Let’s discuss the storage capabilities of the phalcomm L8 NAS Case.

Phalcomm / STUDEVOX L8 Case Review – Storage

This is possibly the things that left me so hot/cold about the Phalcomm NAS Case. On the face of it, ATX Mobo NAS cases are oddly rare when compared to the range/availability of more compact M-ITX NAS enclosures – even more so when you factor in that the L8 is trying to be a compact MATX/ATX NAS case. Nevertheless, I am a little perplexed by some of the design choices here. The choice of drive injection is unique! It’s convenient, saves on wasted materials towards HDD/SSD Trays and allows for very, very easy to access storage media bays.

Additionally, the 8x SATA media bays also feature a magnetic dust capture panel that can be applied above the HDD bays in order to reduce detritus build up over time. However, this panel definitely feels a little cheap and does not quite sit neatly above the HDD bays. I always had to carefully lay the panel over the HDD cavity to ensure it neatly covered it – it never felt particularly premium. I know how ‘precious’ that sounds, but the panel is not rigid, so if you do not specifically lay out the panel over the cavity ‘corner to cover’, it just ends up looking a little slap-dash. I am glad its there, but I wish this panel was rigia and felt for ‘cut to shape’.

Another thing I have mixed feelings over is the way in which the HDDs are injected into the L8 SATA Drive cage. Each drive needs 2x HDD clips to be attached (3 screws each) and that allows each drive to slide into the runners on each bay – this is all well and good. However, these clips are not in any way rubberised, do not have any kind of absorbance for ambient vibration (unlike a silicon or more permeable material) and that means that in the case of more enterprise/large-cap drives, the vibration will be amplified, rather than dissipated.

Again, this is not a deal breaker! But with so, so many NAS cases in the market that arrive with easy to inject/eject HDD trays, I always find it odd in 2024/2025 that companies like Phalcomm and Jonsbo still use these kinds of HDD accessories in their NAS systems.

When I installed smaller 4TB Seagate Ironwolf HDDs, they slide into each HDD cavity smoothly and without issue! However, when I installed a 24TB (10 platter) Seagate 24TB Ironwolf HDD – it did NOT go in smoothly and you definitely got the impression that injection and ejection of larger drives was going to be a little more friction filled.

Also, speaking of ejection, removing an HDD from the L8 enclosure was a less than elegant too. There is no ejection button, no handles for each drive bay and the only way to remove an active HDD (eg, in the event of an HDD failure in your RAID pool in order to introduce another one) was to grip the HDD by your finger tips and pull it out. It’s by no means the end of the world, but its pretty messy compared to if they had just equipped the system with HDD trays into each bay that were springloaded or just button ejection

I know it seems likes I am being very picky here – but the lack of smooth trays on the L8 really do hurt a lot of the impressively compact design choices on show here. Verticle HDD deployment has some great advantages in terms of space saving and redirecting active airflow throughout the system, but the way that drives are being injected into this system is not as smooth and seamless as the promotional images of the case would suggest on the websites that this case is being sold on.

As an ATX/MATX/MITX NAS case, there is ALOT to love here! But I do feel that Phalcomm dropped the ball in terms of the management of the HDDs and SSDs. They do a GREAT job in creating a more compact NAS case and, sort of a few tight spots around the physical cooling, they have achieved what they were going for here. But the SATA storage bays are not great and whether its a budget constraint or a design choice, this system needed trays BADLY!

Phalcomm / STUDEVOXL8 Case Review – Conclusion and Verdict

Overall, I WANT to like the Phalcomm NAS case… I really do. It’s a compact NAS case that has very, very broad Mobo, CPU, Cooler, PCIe and PSU support – THIS IS ALWAYS GOOD! However, they managed to drop the ball in how they approached the storage and I cannot see any good reason why they decided against dull but dependable tray deployment. The price point is fairly reasonable vs it’s competitors in 2024/2025… perhaps a pinch higher, but give it’s specifically compact design and scalability, I am prepared to give them a pass on the price tag. But, much like the (now old, old skool) Fractal Node 804, the approach towards the storage here in the L8 feels like a big step back vs other DiY NAS serves in the market. The Phalcomm L8 is a reasonable enough case, but one that I know will have BYO Server buyers occasionally scratching their heads. The L8 is NOT a bad case, but there are better cases out there.

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now?

Silverstone CS382 NAS Case $209 Amazon usa

USA $209 (16% off) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

PROS	CONs
Compact Design: Despite supporting eight SATA drives and ITX/ATX motherboards, the case is surprisingly compact compared to other NAS enclosures. Flexible Motherboard Support: Compatible with both ITX and ATX motherboards, offering flexibility for different build configurations. Extensive Ventilation: Features passive ventilation on every side, ensuring good airflow and potential for keeping components cool. Multiple Fan Mounting Options: The case has five optional fan mounting locations, allowing for customizable active cooling. Spacious Interior: Provides plenty of room for motherboard and CPU cooler installation, supporting CPU coolers up to 158mm in height. PCIe Expansion Support: Includes several PCIe expansion slots for additional components, allowing for future upgrades. Easy Access for Installation: Removable storage cage and clear internal layout make motherboard and component installation straightforward. Unique PSU Mounting: The PSU is mounted with copper risers to ensure proper airflow and space management, preventing overheating.	No Included Fans: Unlike some competitors, the Phalcomm L8 doesn’t come with any pre-installed fans, requiring additional purchases for active cooling. Limited Front Features: The front panel lacks typical NAS features such as ejectable trays, LCD panels, or drive indicators. Tight Fan Fit in the Front Cavity: Space is limited for front fans, which may lead to less-than-ideal installation, impacting airflow. No Included Cables: The case does not come with SATA or power cables, which are essential for setting up the system.

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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

Terramaster T9-500 Pro NAS Review – Should You Buy?

Rob Andrews

18 novembre 2024 à 18:00

Terramaster T9-500 Pro NAS Review

The Terramaster T9-500 Pro is the latest NAS solution from Terramaster, aimed at small to medium-sized businesses and content creators who need robust storage solutions. This 9-bay desktop NAS offers a variety of features including dual 10GbE ports, support for high-capacity SATA drives, and powerful performance through its Intel Core i7 processor. But with a price tag ranging from $1,400 to $1,500, it targets users who need significant storage, high-speed connectivity, and the ability to scale their storage needs over time.

As the NAS market becomes increasingly competitive, the T9-500 Pro stands out due to its balance of price, performance, and scalability. With its advanced hardware and software capabilities, it offers strong competition to other NAS devices in the same price range. It’s designed to handle demanding tasks, including virtualization, video production, and large-scale file management. But like any product, it comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hardware specifications, pros, and cons of the Terramaster T9-500 Pro to help you decide whether this NAS is worth your investment.

Specification	Details
Processor	Intel Core i7-1255U, 10-Core (Max burst up to 4.7 GHz)
Memory	16GB DDR5 (Upgradeable to 64GB DDR5)
Storage Bays	9 x 3.5″ SATA HDD (Supports 2.5″ SATA HDD and SSD)
Maximum Storage	Up to 198TB (22TB x 9)
Network Ports	2 x 10GbE RJ-45 (Copper)
USB Ports	3 x USB 3.2 (Type A) and 1 x USB 3.2 (Type C), all 10Gbps
M.2 NVMe Slots	2 x PCIe 4.0 x4 (For SSD caching)
RAID Support	TRAID, RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, JBOD
Operating System	TOS 6 (Terramaster’s NAS OS)
Cooling	3 x 92mm Smart Fans
Power Consumption	100W (Fully loaded), 31W (Hibernation)
Noise Level	22.5 dB(A) (In standby with SSDs)
Dimensions	334 x 135 x 295 mm
Weight	6.5 kg
Warranty	2 Years

Terramaster T9-500 Pro NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The Terramaster T9-500 Pro is a highly capable NAS that offers a lot of value for its price, especially when compared to more expensive alternatives on the market. Its combination of dual 10GbE ports, support for high-capacity storage, and a powerful Intel Core i7 processor makes it well-suited for demanding applications like virtualization, video production, and large-scale file management. Additionally, the flexible RAID configurations and expandable memory ensure that this NAS can scale with your business or creative needs. However, the system does have some limitations. The absence of USB4, high power consumption, and reliance on an older generation CPU may deter users looking for cutting-edge technology or more energy-efficient solutions. Furthermore, the maturity of Terramaster’s TOS 6 software, while improving, still falls short of the seamless experience offered by competitors like Synology and QNAP.

In terms of pricing, the T9-500 Pro offers a good balance between performance and cost, especially for users who need a 9-bay system with high-speed connectivity. But for those with more modest storage needs, the cheaper F4-424 Max might be a better fit. Ultimately, the T9-500 Pro is a strong choice for businesses or power users who need robust storage, but its value will depend on your specific performance and storage requirements. If your use case aligns with what this NAS has to offer, it can be an excellent investment. But if you’re looking for the latest technology or a lower power consumption system, you might want to explore other options.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

High-speed connectivity: Dual 10GbE copper ports provide up to 20Gbps bandwidth for fast data transfers.

Expandable storage options: Supports up to 198TB across 9 bays, ideal for large data storage needs.

M.2 NVMe slots: Two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots enable SSD caching for enhanced read/write performance.

Strong processing power: Equipped with a 10-core Intel i7-1255U processor for handling demanding tasks like virtualization and video editing.

Efficient cooling system: Smart cooling with 3x 92mm fans keeps the system quiet and well-ventilated.

RAID flexibility: Supports multiple RAID configurations, including TerraMaster\'s TRAID for dynamic storage management.

Cost-effective for its class: Offers high-end features at a lower price compared to competitors in the 9-bay NAS market.

Flexible software options: Runs TOS 6 OS but can also be used with third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid without voiding the warranty.

CONS

No USB4 support: Lacks USB4 ports, limiting high-speed expansion and Thunderbolt connectivity.

High power consumption: Power-hungry even in idle mode, consuming 61-63 watts with just a few drives installed.

Older CPU technology: Uses a 12th gen Intel i7, which is not as up-to-date as newer 13th gen processors available in the market.

Software maturity: TOS 6 OS lacks the polish and functionality of more established NAS operating systems like Synology\'s DSM or QNAP\'s QTS

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TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro AliExpress usa

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PROs of the Terramaster T9-500 Pro

The Terramaster T9-500 Pro comes packed with a variety of features that make it a versatile and high-performance NAS solution. For businesses and power users who need scalability and speed, this device offers a compelling set of advantages. Let’s dive into the major strengths of the T9-500 Pro.

1. High-Speed Connectivity and Ports

The Terramaster T9-500 Pro shines when it comes to connectivity. Equipped with dual 10GbE RJ-45 copper ports, it delivers up to 20Gbps of bandwidth, which is ideal for high-speed data transfers. Whether you’re a video editor or running a data-heavy enterprise, these ports provide incredible flexibility for handling large files and multimedia content. Additionally, the NAS is fitted with multiple USB 3.2 ports, both Type A and Type C, all offering 10Gbps speeds. This makes it easier to connect external storage devices or expansion chassis, giving users even more options for expanding their network.

In terms of expandability, the inclusion of two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 NVMe slots is a fantastic feature. These slots can be used for SSD caching, significantly improving the read/write performance of the entire storage system. For those working with large media files or running demanding virtualized environments, this adds a layer of performance that puts the T9-500 Pro in a league of its own.

2. Solid Build and Design

The T9-500 Pro’s design strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The compact form factor, along with the 9-bay configuration, gives it the versatility of a desktop unit, while maintaining the high capacity typically seen in rack-mounted systems. The chassis is well-built and feels durable, making it ideal for enterprise environments where ruggedness is a necessity. The hot-swappable drive bays make accessing and maintaining your storage drives effortless.

Another impressive design feature is the smart cooling system. With three 92mm fans mounted on the rear, the NAS keeps noise levels low, even when fully loaded with drives. This makes it a practical choice for both office and home setups, as it won’t contribute to unwanted background noise. In fact, its noise level, which hovers around 22.5 dB(A) in standby mode, is quite impressive for a device of this caliber.

3. Strong Processing Power

At the heart of the T9-500 Pro is the Intel Core i7-1255U processor. With 10 cores (2 performance and 8 efficiency cores), this 12th generation processor can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, making it suitable for everything from file storage to video editing and even virtualization. The CPU’s ability to deliver strong performance without bottlenecking makes it ideal for those who need to get the most out of their hardware.

The processor also includes Intel Iris Xe Graphics, enabling hardware-accelerated transcoding for H.264, H.265, and other video formats. This means users can stream and convert video content at 4K resolution without experiencing significant performance drops, which is particularly useful for multimedia production and live streaming environments.

4. Flexible Storage and RAID Options

The T9-500 Pro offers an impressive array of storage options. With support for up to 198TB of raw storage, the NAS can handle large-scale data needs, making it suitable for enterprises, creative professionals, or those dealing with massive data sets. The inclusion of multiple RAID levels, including TerraMaster’s own TRAID system, allows for flexibility in how users configure their storage. Whether you’re looking for maximum redundancy, speed, or a balance of both, the T9-500 Pro has you covered.

Additionally, the flexible storage configuration extends to the ability to create multiple volumes, which is perfect for businesses needing to separate workspaces or departments. This versatility ensures that the NAS can grow alongside your storage needs, whether you’re working with media, databases, or virtual machines.

5. Cost-Effective for Its Class

At around $1,400 to $1,500 ($1599 on amazon, but $1499 on the official Terramaster site), the Terramaster T9-500 Pro might seem expensive at first glance, but when you compare it to similar offerings in the market, it provides excellent value for money. Comparable NAS systems with 10GbE connectivity, advanced processors, and 9-bay configurations can cost significantly more, often reaching over $2,000. The T9-500 Pro delivers a solid balance of high-end performance, expandability, and ease of use without the premium price tag associated with other brands like Synology or QNAP.

The cost is further justified by the fact that this NAS is future-proof, with the ability to upgrade memory, add more storage, and connect external devices. For SMBs or content creators who need reliable, high-performance storage without breaking the bank, this is an excellent option.

CONs of the Terramaster T9-500 Pro

While the Terramaster T9-500 Pro offers many attractive features, it’s not without its flaws. From power consumption to the absence of certain modern technologies, the T9-500 Pro may not be the perfect fit for every user. Let’s explore some of the limitations that may affect your decision.

1. Lack of USB4 Support

While the T9-500 Pro does offer multiple USB 3.2 ports, the absence of USB4 is a noticeable downside. USB4 provides significantly higher bandwidth, offering up to 40Gbps, which would have been a major asset for those dealing with large media files or wanting to connect even faster external devices. The inclusion of USB4 would also have allowed for Thunderbolt connectivity, further enhancing the flexibility of the system for creative professionals.

In an era where high-speed data transfer is increasingly important, especially in media production and virtualization, the lack of USB4 limits the future scalability of this NAS. For users looking for cutting-edge technology, this could be a deciding factor in opting for a different NAS with more advanced port options.

2. High Power Consumption

One of the more significant downsides of the T9-500 Pro is its relatively high power consumption. Even when in idle mode with only a few drives installed, the system draws around 61-63 watts. When all bays are populated, and the system is under load, power consumption can easily reach 100 watts or more. This could result in higher operating costs, especially for users who plan to run the NAS 24/7.

Given that this NAS is designed for high-performance environments, this level of power consumption is not entirely unexpected. However, compared to other NAS systems in its class, the T9-500 Pro could have benefited from better power efficiency, particularly during idle or low-usage periods.

3. Older CPU Technology

Although the Intel i7-1255U is a capable processor, it’s not the latest generation. As newer CPUs with more cores and better power efficiency hit the market, the T9-500 Pro’s processor starts to feel slightly outdated. In particular, Intel’s 13th generation processors offer superior performance at similar power levels, which would have been a better fit for a NAS system launched in 2024. For users who prioritize raw power and future-proofing their investment, the choice of an older CPU could be seen as a drawback. Competing NAS systems with newer processors may offer better performance for those who need the absolute best from their hardware.

That said, there are some reported issues around some Intel 13th and even 14th Gen CPUs in 2024… see below:

4. Software Maturity Issues

While Terramaster’s TOS 6 operating system has come a long way in recent years, it still doesn’t quite match up to the polished experience offered by Synology’s DSM or QNAP’s QTS. TOS 6 has some great features, like snapshot support and remote access, but it can feel a little clunky and inconsistent at times. This might not be an issue for tech-savvy users, but for those looking for a seamless, out-of-the-box experience, the software could feel lacking.

Additionally, Terramaster has a history of being targeted by ransomware attacks, which may make some users hesitant. Although the company has made significant strides in improving security, including introducing features like read-only snapshots, the memory of previous vulnerabilities may linger for cautious buyers.

5. Competition from Cheaper Models

While the T9-500 Pro offers impressive specs, Terramaster’s own F4-424 Max presents strong competition at nearly half the price. The F4-424 Max comes with similar features, including dual 10GbE ports, USB 10Gbps support, and M.2 NVMe slots, but in a 4-bay configuration. For users who don’t need the full 9 bays of storage, the F4-424 Max could be a much more cost-effective solution.

For those on a budget, the T9-500 Pro may seem like overkill, especially when Terramaster itself offers more affordable alternatives that still deliver great performance. See the review of the $799-899 Terramaster F4-424 Max NAS HERE on YouTube and HERE on NASCompares.

Terramaster T9-500 Pro NAS Review – Verdict

The Terramaster T9-500 Pro is a highly capable NAS that offers a lot of value for its price, especially when compared to more expensive alternatives on the market. Its combination of dual 10GbE ports, support for high-capacity storage, and a powerful Intel Core i7 processor makes it well-suited for demanding applications like virtualization, video production, and large-scale file management. Additionally, the flexible RAID configurations and expandable memory ensure that this NAS can scale with your business or creative needs.

However, the system does have some limitations. The absence of USB4, high power consumption, and reliance on an older generation CPU may deter users looking for cutting-edge technology or more energy-efficient solutions. Furthermore, the maturity of Terramaster’s TOS 6 software, while improving, still falls short of the seamless experience offered by competitors like Synology and QNAP.

In terms of pricing, the T9-500 Pro offers a good balance between performance and cost, especially for users who need a 9-bay system with high-speed connectivity. But for those with more modest storage needs, the cheaper F4-424 Max might be a better fit. Ultimately, the T9-500 Pro is a strong choice for businesses or power users who need robust storage, but its value will depend on your specific performance and storage requirements.

If your use case aligns with what this NAS has to offer, it can be an excellent investment. But if you’re looking for the latest technology or a lower power consumption system, you might want to explore other options.

PROS	CONs
High-speed connectivity: Dual 10GbE copper ports provide up to 20Gbps bandwidth for fast data transfers. Expandable storage options: Supports up to 198TB across 9 bays, ideal for large data storage needs. M.2 NVMe slots: Two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots enable SSD caching for enhanced read/write performance. Strong processing power: Equipped with a 10-core Intel i7-1255U processor for handling demanding tasks like virtualization and video editing. Efficient cooling system: Smart cooling with 3x 92mm fans keeps the system quiet and well-ventilated. RAID flexibility: Supports multiple RAID configurations, including TerraMaster’s TRAID for dynamic storage management. Cost-effective for its class: Offers high-end features at a lower price compared to competitors in the 9-bay NAS market. Flexible software options: Runs TOS 6 OS but can also be used with third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid without voiding the warranty.	No USB4 support: Lacks USB4 ports, limiting high-speed expansion and Thunderbolt connectivity. High power consumption: Power-hungry even in idle mode, consuming 61-63 watts with just a few drives installed. Older CPU technology: Uses a 12th gen Intel i7, which is not as up-to-date as newer 13th gen processors available in the market. Software maturity: TOS 6 OS lacks the polish and functionality of more established NAS operating systems like Synology’s DSM or QNAP’s QTS

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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]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

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

UniFi UNAS Pro – COMPLETE SETUP GUIDE

Rob Andrews

8 novembre 2024 à 18:00

UniFi UNAS Pro First Time Setup Guide – Get It Right First Time

Setting up the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is a straightforward process that allows you to quickly integrate it into your network. This guide will walk you through the steps to get the device up and running, from physical connections to configuring advanced settings like snapshots and remote backups. Whether you’re using a mobile device or web browser, this guide ensures that your UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is set up for optimal performance and functionality.

Choosing Between Offline (LAN Only) Setup vs Using a UniFi Account

Before proceeding with the setup, you need to decide whether to configure the UniFi UNAS Pro as a completely offline system (local area network only) or as part of the broader UniFi ecosystem using a UniFi account on UI.COM. Each option has its advantages:

Using a UniFi Account (UI.COM Integration):
Setting up the device with a UniFi account gives you access to remote connectivity via UniFi’s relay servers, allowing you to manage the NAS from anywhere with an internet connection. It also provides additional features like NAS-to-cloud backups, access to email notifications, more options for updates, and multi-factor authentication for added security. This option is ideal for users who want to manage their NAS remotely or use advanced cloud backup features.
Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
If you prefer to keep your NAS isolated from the internet and manage everything locally, you can set it up without connecting to UI.COM. This means no remote access or cloud backups, and you will rely solely on the local network for file transfers and management. However, basic features like local file sharing, snapshots, and backups to other networked devices will still work as normal. This option is more suited to users who prioritize data privacy and want to keep the NAS entirely within their local network.

Key Differences:

Remote Connectivity: With a UniFi account, you can access the NAS remotely, manage it over the internet, and sync with cloud services. Offline setup limits access to the local network only.
Backups: UniFi account users can back up data to the cloud, while offline users are limited to local backups.
Security: A UniFi account allows for multi-factor authentication (MFA) and remote monitoring, while offline setups focus on LAN-based security measures.
Update Control: UniFi account users have more control over update schedules and can access release candidates or early access updates. Offline users can only apply stable updates manually.

Now, with this decision in mind, let’s proceed with the setup.

HDDs, SSDs and Storage Installation

Power off the device if it’s on.

Open the storage bays and insert your HDDs or SSDs into the drive slots. Ensure the drives are securely seated in the bays.

Close the drive bays and ensure that they are properly locked.

Network Cable Connections

If you choose to set up with a UniFi account, ensure the Ethernet cable is connected to your router with internet access. This will allow the NAS to communicate with UniFi’s servers and facilitate remote connectivity and cloud services.

If you prefer an offline (LAN only) setup, connect the Ethernet cable to your local router or switch, ensuring the device will remain within the local network without internet access.
Insert one end of the Ethernet cable into the UNAS Pro’s 1GbE or 10GbE port, and the other into your router or switch. This will provide network connectivity for the device.
Ensure that the Ethernet connection is stable, as this will be required for the initial configuration and any subsequent operations.

Power On First Time

Connect the power cable and turn on the device by pressing the power button on your mains power outlet – the system will auto boot.

The front panel’s LED indicators will light up, showing the power and network status.
Wait for the device to complete the boot process.

iOS/Android Mobile Setup

Download and install the UniFi Network app on your mobile device (from the App Store or Google Play).
Open the app and use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to detect the UniFi UNAS Pro.
Follow the on-screen instructions to adopt the device into your UniFi account.

Set up your device by configuring network details and choosing between local credentials or your UniFi account for admin access.
Once the device is adopted, you can manage it remotely through the UniFi dashboard via UI.COM.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:

Download the UniFi Network app. Follow the same process to connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, but choose the option for local setup. No internet connection or UI.COM account is needed.
Once configured, the NAS will only be accessible through the local network, and there will be no remote management capabilities.

Web Browser Setup

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):

Open a web browser and go to unifi.ui.com to access the Site Manager.
Log in with your UniFi account to access the UNAS Pro. You will be able to configure cloud backups, updates, and remote management settings.

You can connect directly to the local IP address of the NAS, which can be found in the settings during the mobile setup process. No internet access or UniFi account is required.

You can configure your storage protection and hot spare on the next page

Once logged in, you will have access to the device’s local configuration options. Remote management features and cloud backups will not be available.

Dashboard

Once logged into the web interface, the Dashboard is the main area where you’ll monitor the system’s health, manage storage, view snapshots, and more.
The Dashboard provides key metrics such as storage usage, network performance, and active users.
You can customize the widgets to suit your monitoring preferences.

Adding Users and Connecting Services

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):

Navigate to Settings > Admins & Users to add users. You can invite users via their Ubiquiti account email or create local-only users.
Assign permissions to users, enabling personal or shared drive access as needed.
Connect services such as cloud backups or multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
You can still add users by creating local-only accounts. These users will not have access to remote services or cloud backups but can access the NAS over the local network.

Creating Shared Drives and Sharing Them

Go to Drive Management from the main settings.
Create Shared Drives for different teams or groups.
Set permissions for each drive (read, write, or admin access).

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):
You can create Share Links that can be shared both internally and externally, including through cloud services.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
Share Links will only be available for internal users within the local network, and external sharing is not available without internet access.

Setting Up Snapshots, Locking, and Restoring Them

Navigate to Settings > Snapshots.
Select a Shared Drive and configure the Snapshot Limit and schedule.
Set up a daily or weekly snapshot schedule to protect your data.

Snapshots allow for point-in-time recovery, making it easy to restore lost or corrupted files. Click on the Snapshot icon in a shared drive to view version history and restore files as needed.
Enable Snapshot locking to prevent accidental deletion of important snapshots.

Setting Up Remote/Network/Cloud Backups to UNAS / SMB NAS / Cloud

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):
Go to Settings > Backups. Set up remote backups to another UNAS, cloud server, or remote SMB NAS. The cloud options will be available if you are using a UniFi account.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
Remote backups will be limited to local network devices like SMB NAS or another UNAS connected within the same network. No cloud backup services will be available.

Creating Encrypted Drives and Folders

In Drive Management, select the drive or folder you want to encrypt.
Enable encryption and choose a strong password for the encryption key.
Once encrypted, the data stored in this drive will require the encryption password to access, adding an extra layer of security.

Mapping a Network Drive

For Windows:

Open File Explorer and right-click on This PC.

Click Map Network Drive and assign a letter to the drive.
Enter the SMB path (\<UNAS IP address><drive name>) and finish the setup by entering your credentials.

For macOS:

Open Finder and select Connect to Server from the Go menu.
Enter the SMB address (smb://<UNAS IP address>) and choose the drives you want to map.

Managing Updates

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):
Go to Settings > System Updates. Configure automatic updates for the NAS OS or select modular updates for individual apps and services. You can also access early access or release candidate updates via your UniFi account.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
Updates will be limited to stable releases only. You will need to manually check for updates and apply them.

Notifications and Alerts Setup

With UniFi Account (UI.COM):
Navigate to Settings > System Log > Push Notifications. Enable email or push notifications to receive alerts on storage issues, backups, user activities, or security events.

Offline (LAN Only) Setup:
Without a UniFi account, notifications will be restricted to local system alerts. Email or external push notifications will not be available.

UniFi UNAS Pro Setup Guide Conclusion

Setting up the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS offers flexibility, whether you’re opting for an offline setup limited to local network use or leveraging the power of the UniFi ecosystem through a UniFi account. By following this guide, you’ll ensure that your UNAS Pro is configured for optimal use, securing your data and enhancing your network’s storage capabilities.

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.

Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7]

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a

Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

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