Aoostar WTR Max NAS vs Minisforum N5 Pro NAS Comparison

The demand for high-performance, multi-functional NAS systems has never been higher, as users increasingly expect far more than basic file storage from their hardware. Today’s workloads often include virtualization, AI-assisted operations, multi-tiered storage strategies, and high-speed, low-latency networking—demands that blur the line between a traditional NAS and a fully-fledged home server. In response to these needs, two closely matched contenders have emerged in the prosumer and power-user space: the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series, which consists of both the more affordable standard N5 and the higher-spec N5 Pro. These devices, released in mid-2025, share some common DNA—both are bare-metal NAS platforms that let you install your own operating system and tailor your setup to your specific use case—but they diverge significantly in how they balance compute power, storage density, connectivity options, noise and power efficiency, and overall value.

Check Amazon for the WTR Pro MAX	Check AliExpress for the WTR Pro MAX	Check Amazon for the Minisforum N5	Check AliExpress for the Minisforum N5

In this article we provide a detailed, category-by-category comparison of these systems based on hands-on testing and real-world workloads. Key factors like physical design, internal architecture, storage configuration, CPU and memory performance, external connectivity, and power and noise profiles are all assessed in depth. We also consider important use case distinctions, such as suitability for 24/7 enterprise-grade uptime, AI model hosting, or quiet home use. Whether you’re looking to build a dense storage appliance, a virtualized host for multiple VMs, a locally deployed AI engine, or simply a robust and scalable home NAS, this analysis aims to clarify which of these two (or three, when factoring in the standard N5) offers the best fit. As the boundaries between NAS and full server hardware continue to blur, understanding these subtle trade-offs will help you make a more informed investment for your own specific workload and budget.

Written Review of the Minisforum N5 Pro NAS – HERE

YouTube Review of the Minisforum N5 Pro NAS – HERE

Written Review of the Aoostar WTR Max NAS – HERE

YouTube Review of the Aoostar WTR Max NAS – HERE

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Price and Value

When examining the price points of the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series, it becomes clear that each brand has intentionally targeted slightly different segments of the advanced NAS and home-server market. The Aoostar WTR Max launches at $699 in a barebone configuration, which includes the chassis, preinstalled AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS CPU, external PSU, dual 10GbE SFP+ networking, and a front LCD panel. Like its competitor, it does not include RAM or additional storage at this price.

By comparison, the Minisforum N5 standard model enters at a lower price point of $583 in a similarly barebone configuration—also lacking RAM and user storage—but it does not include ECC memory support or a PRO-class CPU, which are key differences. The premium-tier Minisforum N5 Pro sits at a much higher entry price of $1,039, still barebone but featuring a far more capable Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU and ECC support. Users who prefer to have memory preinstalled can opt for a top-tier N5 Pro bundle, which includes 96GB ECC RAM and raises the total cost to $1,583.

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Design

Both the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series feature compact, all-metal chassis designs that prioritize serviceability, efficient internal space utilization, and professional-grade durability. The Aoostar WTR Max adopts a slightly larger rectangular footprint, accommodating six SATA bays, a dedicated seventh tray slot for up to four M.2 NVMe SSDs, and an integrated LCD display on the front panel for customizable real-time monitoring of system metrics such as temperature and network activity.

Ventilation on the Aoostar is extensive, with intake vents at the bottom, perforated panels on both sides, and dual rear-mounted exhaust fans drawing heat from the drive bays and CPU area. A vapor chamber heat spreader and a dedicated bottom-mounted cooling fan help distribute and evacuate thermal load evenly across internal components. The Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro, meanwhile, share a more compact and minimalist chassis with a slightly smaller footprint and a slide-out drive cage mechanism, making internal access and servicing more straightforward. Both Minisforum models include five SATA bays, a versatile three-slot M.2/U.2 arrangement, and a clean brushed-metal exterior that avoids visual distractions by omitting a front-facing display.

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Storage

Storage capabilities represent one of the most significant differences between the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series, reflecting divergent priorities in how each system balances density and simplicity. The Aoostar WTR Max delivers a standout total of eleven drive slots, composed of six 3.5”/2.5” SATA bays, a dedicated seventh tray supporting up to four M.2 NVMe SSDs. This architecture provides users with the ability to create sophisticated storage topologies, combining high-capacity mechanical drives for bulk cold storage and multiple high-speed NVMe SSDs for tiered caching, scratch disks, or performance-optimized pools.

The additional M.2 tray, which is unique to the Aoostar design, simplifies the installation of multiple NVMe drives without occupying space within the motherboard area, while still offering full Gen 4 speeds on select slots. In contrast, the Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro are more restrained, offering five SATA bays and three NVMe/U.2 slots, which can be configured either as three M.2 drives or as one M.2 with two U.2 drives using the supplied adapter card. The Minisforum setup also includes a dedicated M.2 slot for its 64GB OS SSD, but sadly, this slot consumes one of the three available NVMe positions. Both Minisforum models support hot-swapping on the SATA bays and flexible RAID modes, but the higher bay count and more independent storage interfaces of the Aoostar clearly cater to users with larger or more diverse storage needs.

Feature	Aoostar WTR Max	Minisforum N5 / N5 Pro	Notes / Best
SATA Bays	6 × 3.5″/2.5″ (SATA 3.0, up to 22TB each)	5 × 3.5″/2.5″ (SATA 3.0, up to 22TB each)	Aoostar wins on total count
SATA Hot-swap	No	Yes	Minisforum wins
NVMe/U.2 Slots Total	4 × M.2 in tray + 1 × OS M.2 slot	3 × NVMe/U.2 + 1 × OS M.2 slot	Aoostar wins on total NVMe count
NVMe Slot PCIe Lanes / Speed	2 × Gen4 x2, 2 × Gen4 x1	1 × Gen4 x2, 2 × Gen4 x1	Aoostar provides more total bandwidth
OS Drive Impact	Separate dedicated M.2 slot for OS SSD	OS SSD occupies 1 NVMe slot	Aoostar wins here
NVMe Hot-swap	No	No	Neither supports hot-swap NVMe
Optional U.2 Support	Not natively supported	Via included adapter (2 × U.2 + 1 × M.2)	Minisforum offers flexibility
Reported Internal SSD Speeds	Gen4 x1 slots: ~1.6 GB/s read/write; Gen4 x2 slots: ~2.9–3.1 GB/s read/write	Gen4 x1 slots: ~1.7 GB/s read/write; Gen4 x2 slot: ~3.3 GB/s read, ~3.1 GB/s write	Comparable, slight edge Minisforum
Total Drive Capacity	6 SATA + 4 NVMe + OS SSD = 11 drives	5 SATA + 3 NVMe/U.2 + OS SSD = 8 drives	Aoostar wins on total drive count

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Ports and Connectivity

Both the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series deliver a wide array of external ports and connectivity options, though their designs reflect different priorities and deployment philosophies. The Aoostar WTR Max is clearly oriented toward high-density, network-heavy environments, offering two 10GbE SFP+ fiber ports alongside two additional 2.5GbE RJ45 copper ports. This configuration enables up to four simultaneous physical network connections, making it well-suited to scenarios that demand redundant paths, segmented VLANs, or hybrid fiber-copper topologies.

In addition, the Aoostar includes a front-mounted USB-C port, an SD card slot for quick local transfers, a rear USB4 port, an HDMI output for direct monitoring or console access, and an OCuLink port for external PCIe-based expansions. The SD card slot is an unusual but useful addition for media workflows, though the absence of any PCIe slot in the WTR Max’s internal layout limits upgrade options to what can be connected externally through OCuLink or USB4.

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – CPU and Memory

The Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series diverge substantially in processing power and memory capabilities, with the N5 Pro clearly at the high-performance end of the spectrum. The Aoostar WTR Max is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS, an 8-core, 16-thread processor based on AMD’s efficient Zen 4 architecture, and supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 memory with ECC. This makes the WTR Max a strong contender for users who need solid multi-threaded throughput, data integrity via ECC, and headroom for running many virtual machines or containerized workloads.

It is especially attractive in enterprise-like environments where reliability and memory capacity are priorities. The Minisforum N5 standard, by contrast, uses the older Ryzen 7 255, also with 8 cores and 16 threads, but based on the earlier Zen 3+ architecture, with a cap of 96 GB DDR5 and no ECC support. It remains competent for general NAS duties, file serving, light VM usage, and moderate multimedia tasks. Stepping up to the N5 Pro, however, brings a dramatic increase in compute and AI capabilities: its Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 processor offers 12 cores, 24 threads, ECC support, and a built-in neural processing unit (NPU) delivering up to 50 TOPS for AI inferencing, while maintaining the same 96 GB DDR5 limit. This makes the N5 Pro ideal for highly concurrent workloads, virtualized environments, AI model hosting, and scenarios where raw CPU power and error resilience are critical.

(The CPU in the Minisforum N5 Pro is also featured on the X1 Pro from Minsforum, so below you can see the GFX benchmarks of this processor vs the same CPU + an MGA1 External Oculink eGPU)

Feature	Ryzen 7 255	Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS	Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370
Architecture	Zen 3+	Zen 4	Zen 5 / Zen 5c hybrid
Cores / Threads	8C / 16T	8C / 16T	12C / 24T
Base / Boost Clock	3.3 GHz / 4.9 GHz	3.8 GHz / 5.1 GHz	2.0 GHz / 5.1 GHz
L3 Cache	16 MB	16 MB	24 MB
GPU	Radeon 780M (12 CUs)	Radeon 780M (12 CUs)	Radeon 890M (16 CUs)
GPU Clock	~2.5 GHz	Up to 2.7 GHz	Up to 2.9 GHz
NPU	UPTO 16 TOPS	upto 16 TOPS	Up to 50 TOPS
TDP Range	~45 W	~45 W	28–54 W
PCIe Lanes	20 PCIe Gen 4	20 PCIe Gen 4	16 PCIe Gen 4
Memory Support	DDR5 (non‑ECC)	DDR5‑5600 ECC	DDR5‑5600 ECC

Looking deeper at the individual CPUs, their architectures reflect different generational and market goals. The Ryzen 7 255 in the Minisforum N5 is a Zen 3+ part built on a 6 nm process, with a base clock of 3.3 GHz and turbo up to 4.9 GHz. It provides 16 MB of L3 cache and includes integrated Radeon 780M graphics with 12 RDNA 3 compute units. At ~45 W TDP, it is a capable midrange processor for general NAS use but lacks advanced enterprise features like ECC and AI. The Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS in the WTR Max upgrades to Zen 4 at 4 nm, bumps the base clock to 3.8 GHz while maintaining the same 5.1 GHz boost, and delivers better power efficiency.

It retains the Radeon 780M GPU but with improved clocks and adds ECC memory support plus 20 PCIe Gen 4 lanes for broader connectivity options. At the top sits the Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 in the N5 Pro, which leverages AMD’s Zen 5/5c hybrid architecture. Despite a lower base clock of 2.0 GHz (favoring efficiency) with the same 5.1 GHz turbo, it increases core count to 12 and thread count to 24, doubles L3 cache to 24 MB, and upgrades the GPU to Radeon 890M with 16 RDNA 3 compute units clocked up to 2.9 GHz. The Pro has a higher rated integrated NPU, capable of 50 TOPS, positioning it as an ideal candidate for on-premises AI inferencing and acceleration workloads, several times higher than the potential 16 TOPS rating on the CPUs of the N5 Standard and WTR ,Max. Its TDP range of 28–54 W also reflects its hybrid design’s balance of power and efficiency, although it offers slightly fewer PCIe lanes (16) than the WTR Max’s 20.

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Power Consumption and Noise

Both the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series aim to strike a balance between capable performance, manageable power consumption, and acceptable noise levels, though they adopt distinct philosophies around power delivery and cooling. Both the Minisforum N5 and the Aoostar WTR Max feature external power supply unit (PSUs), of a pretty hefty 280W – these will almost certainly not be for everyone, but do allow for both systems to maintain a decent small-scale (however, be aware that they DO get warm)!

In terms of measured power consumption, the WTR Max idles at approximately 32–34 W even when fully populated with drives, and it ramps up to around 73–89 W under heavy load, such as during multi-VM and high-throughput testing.

The chassis design favors airflow with strategically placed ventilation on the sides, rear, and bottom, a pair of large rear exhaust fans, and a dedicated internal fan that focuses specifically on the hard drive bays. This combination keeps temperatures steady under pressure, and even during sustained activity, noise output remains modest — around 35 dBA at idle and typically peaking near 44 dBA when heavily loaded, which is relatively quiet given its drive density and active cooling.

Aspect	Aoostar WTR Max	Minisforum N5 (Standard)	Minisforum N5 Pro	Best & Why/Note
PSU Type	External	External	External	No Difference
Peak Power Consumption	~73–89W	~80W	~80W	Tie — both in similar range
Idle Power Consumption	~32–34W	~32–34W	~32–34W	Tie — similar efficiency
Noise at Idle	~35 dBA	~32–34 dBA	~32–34 dBA	N5/N5 Pro — slightly quieter at idle
Noise at Load	~44 dBA	~48–51 dBA	~48–51 dBA	Aoostar WTR Max — quieter at load

Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max NAS – Verdict and Conclusion

In reviewing the Aoostar WTR Max and the Minisforum N5 series—including both the standard and Pro models—it becomes clear that each system was designed with a distinct user profile and set of priorities in mind, making direct comparisons nuanced rather than absolute. The Aoostar WTR Max distinguishes itself with a compelling balance of high storage density, strong CPU performance featuring ECC memory support, excellent chassis ventilation and a competitive mid-range price point.

Its combination of six SATA bays, five M.2 slots, quiet operation under sustained loads, and a tidy all-in-one form factor appeals to users who value storage flexibility, operational efficiency, and simplicity in deployment. The Minisforum N5 standard model carves out its niche as an affordable entry point for those with lighter needs—delivering solid, modern NAS performance in a compact chassis at the lowest price of the three. At the other end of the spectrum, the Minisforum N5 Pro targets advanced power users, offering the AI‑accelerated Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 processor, ECC memory capability, and unmatched multi-threaded and inference performance, all of which position it squarely in the high-end category for workloads like intensive virtualization, heavy concurrent tasks, and AI-assisted applications. For those specific use cases, the N5 Pro’s premium price is justified by its unmatched compute capabilities and feature set.

Ultimately, choosing between these systems requires a careful assessment of workload demands, expansion expectations, and budget constraints. The Aoostar WTR Max delivers a well-rounded combination of storage capacity, compute power, noise and thermal efficiency, and ease of deployment at a price that is reasonable for most advanced home and small business NAS environments. Its blend of practical features and robust hardware makes it especially attractive for users who prioritize storage-heavy applications and quieter, more efficient operation. The Minisforum N5 standard model is best suited for users with modest requirements and tight budgets, offering a clean, capable NAS platform for general use without the advanced features or costs associated with its Pro sibling. The N5 Pro, however, remains the clear choice for users who need the highest possible performance, AI‑specific capabilities, and maximum concurrency—provided they are willing to pay a premium for these cutting-edge benefits. In short, while all three systems deliver strong value in their respective niches, the Aoostar WTR Max arguably offers the most versatile and cost-effective package for typical NAS workloads, striking a smart balance between affordability, capacity, and performance.

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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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New Value Series UGREEN DH4300 and DH2300 NAS Drives

UGREEN has unveiled two new value-focused NAS devices, the DH3400 and DH3200, designed to meet the needs of home and small office users who want practical, low-power network storage without unnecessary complexity. The DH3400 is a 4-bay model, while the DH3200 offers a 2-bay configuration, both intended for those looking to implement efficient backups, multimedia streaming, and personal cloud storage at a more affordable price point. First revealed through the 2025 iF Design Awards and then quietly launched with a limited discount during Amazon Prime Day, these models occupy a lower tier in UGREEN’s NAS range, complementing rather than replacing their existing higher-end DXP series.

These two devices clearly target users who prioritize straightforward functionality over high-end processing power or advanced virtualization. Both systems are engineered with energy-efficient components and a compact design that makes them suitable for desktop environments where noise, heat, and power consumption need to be minimized. By offering a clear set of features—including RAID support, snapshot capabilities, and 4K multimedia output—at a modest price, the DH3400 and DH3200 aim to appeal to customers who need reliable, low-maintenance storage hardware that can integrate easily into a home network or small office setup.

UGREEN DH2300 and DH4300 NAS Hardware Specifications

The UGREEN DH3400 and DH3200 are built on a shared hardware platform, with the key difference being drive bay count—four bays on the DH3400 and two on the DH3200. Both systems use the Rockchip RK3588C processor, an 8-core ARM-based SoC running at 2.4 GHz, designed to prioritize energy efficiency and low thermal output rather than raw performance. The RK3588C includes integrated Mali-G610 graphics and an AI engine capable of delivering up to six tera operations per second (TOPS), which enables features like facial recognition and semantic photo search without taxing the CPU as much as it would likewise ARM processors without it.

Both units come equipped with 8 GB of soldered LPDDR4X memory, which cannot be upgraded. This is a typical limitation of ARM-based NAS systems, where memory is tightly coupled with the SoC for efficiency. The onboard memory is adequate for the included software stack, which supports multi-user environments, Docker containers, and AI-driven media management. For system storage, UGREEN integrates a 32 GB eMMC module to host the UGOS Pro operating system. This keeps the SATA bays fully available for user storage, though it does mean the system disk cannot be swapped or expanded.

The DH3400 supports up to four 3.5” or 2.5” SATA drives, while the DH3200 supports two, and both models can accommodate up to 30 TB per bay, for a maximum of 120 TB on the DH3400 when fully populated. Supported RAID configurations include JBOD, Basic, RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, providing a range of data protection and performance options suited to home and SOHO environments.

Networking and external connectivity are kept simple yet functional. Each system includes a single 2.5 GbE Ethernet port, which supports transfer speeds up to roughly 300 MB/s under optimal conditions. Although dual LAN ports for link aggregation or failover would have been welcome at this price point, the single-port setup is likely sufficient for the target audience.

Three USB ports are provided: one USB-C @ 5Gb/s and two USB-A @ 10 Gb/s. These are useful for connecting additional external drives, creating tiered backups, or quickly offloading data from portable devices. The inclusion of a full-size HDMI port capable of 4K/60Hz output is another notable feature, enabling direct connection to a monitor or TV for multimedia playback or system administration from a local display—something not all competing devices offer.

From a physical and design perspective, the DH series is clearly built to fit seamlessly into a home or small office. The DH3400’s chassis measures just 155 × 155 × 215.7 mm, and its vertical, injection-molded plastic design keeps its footprint compact and thermals manageable. Power consumption is modest at a rated 12V/6A, helping keep operational costs low and making the units suitable for 24/7 use.

The overall aesthetic is understated, drawing comparisons to earlier Western Digital consumer NAS devices, with a focus on quiet operation and minimal disruption to the workspace. While there is no support for PCIe expansion or M.2 NVMe storage—features found in higher-end UGREEN DXP models—the streamlined hardware specification aligns with the device’s role as an affordable, efficient, and easy-to-deploy file server for users who don’t require more advanced features.

UGREEN DH2300 and DH4300 NAS Software Specifications

Both the DH3400 and DH3200 ship with UGREEN’s UGOS Pro operating system, a Linux-based NAS software platform designed to be user-friendly while offering a solid range of core functionality. UGOS Pro provides a clean, browser-based interface accessible from Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, web browsers, and even smart TVs, making it easy for users to manage their storage from almost any device. The OS supports secure multi-user access with advanced encryption, a built-in firewall, and two-factor authentication, ensuring that data remains protected from unauthorized access. Local data storage is emphasized over cloud reliance, though cloud backup targets are supported for redundancy.

In terms of features, UGOS Pro includes most of the essential applications expected of a modern NAS. File and folder management is straightforward, with support for SMB/CIFS, NFS, and WebDAV protocols. Users can set up scheduled or on-demand backups, including multi-tiered strategies spanning local drives, external USB storage, and supported cloud services. Snapshot functionality is included to help protect against accidental deletion or data corruption. Multimedia applications are also integrated, with tools for organizing and streaming photos, videos, and music, plus support for the HDMI output for direct 4K media playback on connected displays.

Despite being a value-oriented device, the DH3400 and DH3200 still offer some advanced capabilities thanks to the efficiency of the RK3588C CPU. These include AI-powered features such as photo recognition by faces, scenes, and locations, automatic duplicate removal, and the creation of personalized albums. Semantic search functionality helps users locate files more intuitively, and Docker is supported for lightweight containerized applications. However, resource-intensive functions like virtualization and more complex enterprise-grade apps are not included, in keeping with the intended role of these systems as affordable, entry-level NAS solutions. Plus, no doubt, the ease of integrating this more cost-effective solution with other, more powerful DXP NAS systems using the nativa backup sync application is going to be a breeze on the LAN!

UGREEN DH2300 and DH4300 NAS – Price and Launch Date?

UGREEN’s new DH2300 and DH4300 NAS models have already quietly launched, with availability beginning during Amazon Prime Day 2025 in what can best be described as a stealth release. The DH4300, the 4-bay model, is currently listed at $429.99 diskless, although a temporary promotional discount during Prime Day dropped the price as low as $349.99. At the time of writing, UGREEN has not provided an official end date for the promotional pricing, so buyers should assume the standard price is $429.99 going forward. The DH2300, the 2-bay variant, has not yet been widely listed, and official pricing for that model has yet to be confirmed. Both models are expected to continue rolling out to major online retailers over the coming weeks, with broader global availability likely to follow given UGREEN’s previous product launch patterns. For now, early adopters in supported regions can purchase the DH4300 directly from platforms like Amazon, and keep an eye on listings for the DH2300 to appear soon. Buyers should note that, as with most diskless NAS products, storage drives are sold separately. These models are positioned as affordable, efficient storage solutions in UGREEN’s lineup, complementing rather than replacing their existing DXP series. By offering a lower barrier to entry, UGREEN appears to be catering to users looking for basic yet capable NAS hardware at an accessible price. Those interested in purchasing should monitor retailer listings closely for availability and any further discounts as stock becomes more widely distributed.

You can order from the Official UGREEN site via the banner below:

Alternatively, the UGREEN DH4300 has appeared on Amazon on Multiple locations. So you can check the Amazon store in your region by clicking the banner below.

Remember. We get a small commission from any sales that occur from using the links above, and these go directly into allowing us to keep doing what we do.

UGREEN Store – https://ugreen.pxf.io/jejy6Z/

Amazon Store – https://amzn.to/409Sckl/

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Prime Day 2025 Deals Megathread – Terramaster NAS

Prime Day 2025 is not just a normal sales thing, it’s when the best deals becomes a quest for many, especially tech enthusiasts and savvy shoppers. This November, as we approach the holiday season, our focus sharpens on a segment that’s increasingly popular in the tech community: Network Attached Storage (NAS) solutions, particularly Terramaster products known for their quality and dependability in data storage. If you’re planning to enhance your home network, set up an efficient media server, or secure your files with reliable backup, Terramaster’s range might have the perfect solution for you. With Amazon Prime Day’s impressive discounts, it could be the ideal time to invest in your tech infrastructure. We’ve sorted the deals by region,.so we’ve got you covered.

US Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

Stay tuned for tables showcasing the hottest deals on Terramaster products for our US-based readers.

USA

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster F8 SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	$479.99 (20% off off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	NAS	$719.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F2-424 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	303.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS 4-Bay	NAS	$559.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-423 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	$344.99 (25% off)
TerraMaster F4-212 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	$224.99 (25% off)
TerraMaster D4-320 USB Enclosure 4-Bay	DAS	$151.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D8 Hybrid NVMe HDD USB RAID Storage 8-Bay	DAS	$239.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D5-300 RAID 5 Storage 5-Bay	DAS	194.99 (25% off)
TerraMaster TD2 Thunderbolt 3 RAID Storage 2-Bay	DAS	$207.99 (20% off)

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UK Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

To our dear readers in the United Kingdom, we haven’t forgotten you. Here’s a curated list of the top Terramaster NAS and DAS deals available on your shores this Prime Day 2025.

UK

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster T9-500 Pro NAS 9-Bay	NAS	£1399,99(£100 amount off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	NAS	£655.99(20% off)
TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS 6-Bay	NAS	£735.99(20% off)
TerraMaster F6-424 NAS 6-Bay	NAS	£439,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F8-SSD Plus NAS 8-Bay	NAS	£583,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F8-SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	£439,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F2-212 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	£126.64 (25% off)
TerraMaster F4-423 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	£319.99 (28% off)
TerraMaster F2-423 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	£229.99 (26% off)
TERRAMASTER F2-424 NAS – 2Bay	NAS	£273.79 (26% off)
TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS – 4Bay	NAS	£359.99 (25% off)
TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro NAS – 4Bay	NAS	£472.49(25% off)
TerraMaster D2-320 USB Enclosure 2-Bay	DAS	£95.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D4-320 USB Enclosure 4-Bay	DAS	£143.99 (20% off)
TERRAMASTER D6-320 USB Enclosure 6 Bay	DAS	£239.99 (20% off)
TERRAMASTER D8 Hybrid HDD NVMe Enclosure	DAS	£239.99 (20% off)
TERRAMASTER D5 Hybrid HDD NVMe Enclosure	DAS	£167.99 (20% off)

 

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Canada Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

For our Canadian friends, we’ve compiled a list of unbeatable offers just for you.

Canada

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster F8 SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	663.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	NAS	1039.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS 4-Bay	NAS	$713.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F2-423 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	$374.99 (25% off)
TerraMaster D4-320 USB Enclosure 4-Bay	DAS	$199.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D8 Hybrid NVMe HDD USB RAID Storage 8-Bay	DAS	319.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster TD2 Thunderbolt 3 RAID Storage 2-Bay	DAS	$263.99 (20% off)

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Germany Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

Liebe tech enthusiasts, hier sind die besten Angebote für euch!

Germany

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster F2-424 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	€319.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-423 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	€367.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS 4-Bay	NAS	€583.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 MAX NAS 4-Bay	NAS	€759.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster F8 SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	€503.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster T12-500 Pro NAS 12-Bay	NAS	€1,799.99 (100 EURO off)
TerraMaster D5-300C USB RAID Storage 5-Bay	DAS	€183.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D6-320 USB Enclosure 6-Bay	DAS	€263.99 (20% off)
TerraMaster D4-320 USB Enclosure 4-Bay	DAS	€167.99 (20% off)
TERRAMASTER D8 Hybrid HDD NVMe Enclosure	DAS	€263.99 (20% off)

 

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France Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

Chers amis français, voici les offres à ne pas manquer!

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster F8-SSD Plus NAS 8-Bay	NAS	€671,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F8-SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	€503,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F6-424 NAS 6-Bay	NAS	€503,99(20% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	NAS	€739,49(15% off)
TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS 4-Bay	NAS	583,99€ (20% off)
TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS – 4Bay	NAS	423,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-423 NAS 2-Bay	NAS	322,49€ (25% off)
TerraMaster F4-212 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	€187.99 (25% off)
TERRAMASTER F2-424 NAS – 2Bay	NAS	296,99€ (25% off)
TerraMaster D8 Hybrid NVMe HDD USB RAID Storage 8-Bay	DAS	263,99€(20% off)
TerraMaster D5 Hybrid NVMe HDD USB RAID Storage 5-Bay	DAS	191,99€(20% off)
TerraMaster D5-300 USB RAID Storage 5-Bay	DAS	202,49€ (25% off)
TERRAMASTER D4-320 USB Enclosure 4 Bay	DAS	172,49€(25% off)
TERRAMASTER D2-320 USB Enclosure 2 Bay	DAS	111,99€(20% off)
TerraMaster TD2 Thunderbolt 3 RAID Storage 2-Bay	DAS	202,49€(25% off)

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Spain Terramaster Prime Day 2025 Deals

¡Hola a nuestros amigos españoles! Aquí están las ofertas que no te puedes perder.

WHAT	MIX	DEAL
TerraMaster F4-424 Max NAS 4-Bay	NAS	759,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster F6-424 Max NAS 6-Bay	NAS	839,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster F8-SSD Plus NAS 8-Bay	NAS	671,99€ (20% off)
TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro 32GB NAS – 4Bay	NAS	583,99€ (20% off)
TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS – 4Bay	NAS	412,49€ (25% off)
TerraMaster F6-424 NAS 6-Bay	NAS	503,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster F8-SSD NAS 8-Bay	NAS	503,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster F4-423 NAS 4-Bay	NAS	359,99€ (25% off)
TerraMaster D5-300C USB Enclosure 5-Bay	DAS	172,49€(25% off)
TerraMaster D2-320 USB Enclosure 2-Bay	DAS	143,99€ (20% off)
TerraMaster D4-320 USB Enclosure 4-Bay	DAS	167,99€ (20% off)
TERRAMASTER D6-320 USB Enclosure 6 Bay	DAS	263,99€(20% off)
TERRAMASTER D5 Hybrid HDD NVMe Enclosure	DAS	191,99€(20% off)
TERRAMASTER D8 Hybrid HDD NVMe Enclosure	DAS	263,99€(20% off)

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Prime Day Bargains on Synology, QNAP, UGREEN, Terramaster, Seagate and More to Watch

That’s right, it’s that time once again—Amazon Prime Day 2025 has arrived. The biggest e-retail giant in the world is rolling out its annual mega sale, and for those of us with a Prime subscription quietly siphoning cash every month, now’s the time to get something back. Whether you’re a home user looking to back up your devices or a business admin in need of robust storage solutions, Prime Day has consistently proven to be a great opportunity to upgrade your setup without breaking the bank. Unlike Black Friday—which tends to sprawl out across weeks and multiple platforms—Prime Day is a more concentrated event. That means the window to make a decision is often brief, and the best deals can vanish in hours, sometimes even minutes. So if you’re eyeing that NAS you’ve been meaning to buy or hoping to expand your RAID array with some fresh HDDs or SSDs, now’s the time to act fast.

Today, we’re rounding up as many of the best Amazon Prime Day deals on NAS and storage tech as we can find. That includes offers on popular brands like Synology, QNAP, WD, Seagate, Terramaster, and others. Alongside the real-time deals that we (me and Eddie—yes, still working double shifts!) track throughout the event, we’ve also put together a list of recommended hardware to watch for. Many of these devices pop up on lightning deals with limited stock, so having a shortlist in mind can really help.

Important Note – Every year, we run these Prime Day and Black Friday deal pages the same way: by personally curating the offers we believe are genuinely worth it. If it’s not something we’d buy ourselves, we won’t include it. You can also contribute and share any bargains you come across using the community deal-sharing tool below. We do this for a couple of reasons. First, to help people make smarter decisions with their tech purchases. Second, because every time someone clicks a deal link and makes a purchase, we receive a small commission from Amazon—no extra cost to you. That affiliate income directly supports the site and allows us to keep producing NAS guides, reviews, and how-to content every single day.

So, whether you’re looking to finally set up your first Plex server, expand your surveillance system, or just secure a better backup routine—there’s a good chance something will be on offer during Prime Day 2025. And if you’re unsure what’s right for your setup, don’t forget you can always use our Free Advice service for tailored recommendations.

Let’s dive into the deals!

NOTE – Just Adding European Deals Right Now. The U.S Amazon Prime Day deals and offers are just appearing as we speak, so I will add them as they pop up and are worth going for !

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GMKTec G9 Nucbox 4x NVMe NAS + 64GB eMMC -15% $169.99 – HERE

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26TB WD Red Pro NAS Hard Drive, –15% $484.49 List Price: $569.99 – HERE

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UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NAS (US) -25% $519.99 (Regular price $699.99) – HERE

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Terramaster F6-424 6-Bay NAS -20% £479.99 (Was: $599) – HERE

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Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro FS6712X – 12Bay SSD 10GbE NAS, -15% $679.00 List Price: $799.00 – HERE

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CWWK Mini PC N100 Firewall Hardware 2 x 10GbE SFP+, 2 x i226V 2.5GbE, –20% $179.20 HERE

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QNAP TS-233-2G-US 2 Bay NAS, 20% $159.00 (List Price: $159.00) – HERE

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QNAP TS-433-4G-US 4 Bay NAS, 18% $309.00 (List Price: $379.00) – HERE

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Seagate IronWolf Pro 24TB NAS Hard Drive – Now $419 –  HERE

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Seagate Expansion 28TB External Hard Drive, -13% $329.99 Now – HERE

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CWWK X86-P6 N150 4X m.2 NAS – -15% €184.44 Was: €216.99 – HERE

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GMKTec G9 Nucbox 4x NVMe NAS + 64GB eMMC – HERE

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CyberPower CP1500PFCRM2U PFC Sinewave UPS, -25% $299.95 List Price: $399.95 – HERE

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Terramaster F8 SSD NAS (8x M.2 SSD and 10GbE -25% OFF, Now £412.49 – HERE

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Crucial P310 4TB SSD (CT4000P310SSD801), 7GB/s -21% OFF, Now £205.99 – HERE

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Seagate 20TB Ironwolf Pro NAS HDD – 8% £372.99 (RRP: £405.55RRP) – HERE

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Discounts on UGREEN NAS- 20% OFF 6th July – 10th July 2025 – HERE

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LincStation N1 6 Bay SSD NAS Storage – -15% £271.15 (Was: £319.00) – HERE

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Terramaster F6-424 6-Bay NAS -20% £439.99 (Was: £549.99) – HERE

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SODOLA 5 Port 2.5Gb Network Switch + 1 x 10G SFP V- HERE

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Crucial BX500 SATA SSD 4TB, -15% £185.99 (RRP: £219.99) – HERE

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UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NAS (UK) -20% £479.98 RRP (£599.99RRP) – HERE

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TERRAMASTER F2-212 2Bay NAS – Quad Core CPU DDR4 RAM -25% £127.49 Was: £169.99Was: £169.99 – HERE

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Seagate IronWolf 4TB, NAS Hard Drive -9% £85.99 (RRP: £94.91) – HERE

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Discounts on UGREEN NAS- 20% OFF 6th July – 10th July 2025 – HERE

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TERRAMASTER F4-424 Max NAS, WAS $899, NOW $674 –HERE

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————–  Useful Links  —————

US Amazon – Amazon USA Prime Day Official Page – Amazon UK Prime Day Official Page

Amazon Warehouse (20% Off Everything on Prime Day)

USA – UK – Germany

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

 

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Best NAS You Can Buy Right Now (Mid-2025) for Under $499

As of mid-2025, the sub-$499 NAS market is more competitive than ever, with several brands offering systems that deliver strong hardware, dedicated operating systems, and multiple drive bays within a modest budget. For home users, prosumers, and small teams looking to centralize data, manage backups, or stream media locally, this price bracket now includes options that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago. From rackmount storage appliances to compact flash-based servers, there are now choices to suit a wide variety of workloads and network environments.

This article examines five out-of-the-box NAS systems that are currently available for $499 or less. While each system takes a slightly different approach—whether prioritizing raw bandwidth, containerization, virtualization support, or software simplicity—they all represent viable solutions for users seeking value without compromising core functionality.

Important Disclaimer and Notes Before You Buy

All of the NAS systems featured in this list are diskless, meaning they do not include storage media by default. Users will need to purchase compatible 3.5″ HDDs, 2.5″ SSDs, or M.2 NVMe drives separately depending on the system’s configuration. This significantly affects the total cost of ownership, particularly for all-flash systems where NVMe drives are required. Some devices also use onboard flash or eMMC storage to house the operating system, but this is not sufficient for general file storage. Buyers should also consider the cost of drives, RAID redundancy planning, and any accessories (e.g., cables or cooling enhancements) when budgeting for deployment.

Another consideration is the variation in NAS operating systems provided. While most models come with a vendor-specific OS—such as Synology DSM, TerraMaster TOS, UGOS, or Unraid—some platforms allow or even encourage the installation of third-party alternatives like TrueNAS or Unraid without voiding hardware warranties. However, in cases where the software stack is less mature or limited in features, users may need to invest more time configuring services such as Plex, Docker, or SMB sharing manually. As such, these systems are best suited to users who are comfortable managing basic network services or are willing to explore more advanced functionality over time.

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UniFi UNAS Pro 7-Bay NAS

$499 – ARM Cortex-A57 – 8GB – 7x 3.5″ SATA – 1x 10GbE SFP+, 1x 1GbE – UniFi OS – BUY HERE

The UniFi UNAS Pro is a 2U rackmount NAS solution designed primarily for high-speed, large-scale data storage. It features seven hot-swappable 2.5″/3.5″ SATA drive bays and is built around a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor running at 1.7GHz, paired with 8GB of onboard DDR4 memory. Unlike general-purpose NAS systems that include container support or multimedia features, this device is focused purely on network file storage. It offers robust network connectivity with both a 10GbE SFP+ port and a 1GbE RJ45 port, making it suitable for use cases where bandwidth is a priority—such as centralized backups, archival storage, or high-volume file transfers within a UniFi-managed network.

The system is managed via UniFi’s Drive app within the UniFi OS ecosystem, and supports standard RAID configurations including RAID 0, 1, 5, and 6. Power redundancy is provided via a dual-input system—an internal 200W AC/DC PSU and support for USP-RPS DC failover. There’s also a 1.3-inch front panel touchscreen for quick diagnostics and system status at the rack. While it lacks container support, virtualization, or media server capabilities, it integrates easily with other UniFi products or can operate as a standalone storage node in a mixed environment. For users who require reliable, scalable storage with 10GbE connectivity but can forego app extensibility, the UNAS Pro represents a straightforward, hardware-driven option in the sub-$500 space.

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LincStation N2 NAS

$399 – Intel N100 – 16GB – 2x 2.5″ SATA + 4x M.2 NVMe – 1x 10GbE – Unraid OS – BUY HERE

The LincStation N2 is a compact, all-SSD NAS that delivers a high-performance spec sheet at a relatively low price. Powered by an Intel N100 processor and equipped with 16GB of LPDDR5 memory, it supports a mix of two 2.5″ SATA SSDs and four M.2 2280 NVMe drives. This six-bay design—entirely SSD-based—is geared toward users who require faster IOPS, quieter operation, and lower power draw than traditional hard drive-based systems. Network connectivity is handled by a single 10GbE RJ45 port, a rare inclusion in this price bracket and especially valuable for direct workstation or multi-client environments.

The device ships with an Unraid Starter license pre-installed, giving users access to advanced features like Docker container support, virtual machines, hardware passthrough, and flexible storage management. While Unraid requires some learning curve for new users, it offers a high degree of customization and adaptability compared with fixed software stacks. The system also includes HDMI output, USB-C, USB 3.2, and multiple USB 2.0 ports, making it suitable for use as a lightweight home server or media workstation. For users prioritizing SSD storage, 10GbE, and virtualization support, the LincStation N2 delivers a capable platform that’s uncommon at this price point.

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TerraMaster F4 SSD NAS

$399 – Intel N95 – 8GB – 4x M.2 NVMe – 1x 5GbE – TOS (TerraMaster OS) – BUY HERE

The TerraMaster F4 SSD is a 4-bay, all-flash NAS designed for high-speed home storage, media streaming, and photo management. It is equipped with an Intel N95 processor, an entry-level quad-core CPU from Intel’s Alder Lake-N family, and 8GB of DDR5 memory via a single SODIMM module. Storage is handled via four M.2 NVMe slots: two operating at PCIe 3.0 x2 speeds and two at PCIe 3.0 x1. These are designed for SSDs only—no support for SATA drives is provided. On the network side, the unit includes a single 5GbE port, offering a higher single-link bandwidth than systems using dual 2.5GbE, and can be directly connected to 10GbE networks at reduced speeds.

The system runs TerraMaster’s TOS operating system, which supports multimedia applications like Plex and Emby, cloud sync, photo AI tagging, user account control, and flexible backup solutions. TOS includes support for Btrfs and TRAID (TerraMaster RAID), along with remote access features and mobile apps for file synchronization and photo uploads. With three high-speed USB ports (2x Type-A and 1x Type-C), HDMI output, and low-noise fan operation (~19 dB), the F4 SSD targets users looking for a quieter, flash-based NAS for home environments. It lacks 2.5″/3.5″ bay support but offers fast SSD performance in a small form factor with minimal configuration requirements.

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Synology DiskStation DS425+ NAS

$499 – Intel Celeron J4125 – 2GB – 4x 3.5″ SATA + 2x M.2 NVMe – 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE – DSM 7.x – BUY HERE

The Synology DS425+ is a 4-bay NAS designed to serve as an entry point into Synology’s DSM ecosystem, offering a balance between hardware efficiency and access to a mature, enterprise-grade operating system. It runs on the Intel Celeron J4125 processor, a quad-core chip with a base frequency of 2.0GHz and a burst frequency of 2.7GHz. The system ships with 2GB of DDR4 non-ECC memory, expandable up to 6GB, and supports both 3.5″/2.5″ SATA drives and two M.2 NVMe SSDs for caching or storage volumes. For networking, it includes one 2.5GbE port and one standard 1GbE port, giving users some flexibility depending on their switching infrastructure.

DSM (DiskStation Manager) remains one of the most advanced NAS operating systems available, offering built-in apps for file management, media streaming, surveillance, and virtualization. Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) is supported for flexible storage management, along with Btrfs file system benefits such as snapshots and data integrity checks. The DS425+ is part of Synology’s 2025 refresh lineup, which enforces stricter compatibility with Synology-branded drives. Users should confirm drive support in advance, particularly if planning to reuse existing disks. Despite these limitations, for users seeking reliability, security features, and long-term OS support, the DS425+ remains a strong choice at the $499 price point.

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The NAS market under $499 in mid-2025 presents a broad spectrum of options tailored to different storage priorities and technical requirements. Whether you’re looking for high-capacity traditional RAID storage, SSD-focused performance, or a feature-rich operating system, there are viable choices within this price bracket. The UniFi UNAS Pro stands out as a pure storage appliance with 10GbE connectivity and seven bays, suited for high-throughput archival or backup scenarios. Meanwhile, the UGREEN DXP4800 and LincStation N2 offer hybrid and full-flash storage respectively, with both systems supporting modern features like Docker, virtualization, and optional third-party OS deployment. For those focused on user-friendly software ecosystems and long-term support, Synology’s DS425+ remains a leading contender, albeit with stricter drive compatibility requirements. On the other hand, the TerraMaster F4 SSD delivers compact all-SSD storage with high-speed 5GbE networking and a growing feature set in TOS, including AI photo management and multimedia tools. All five models require user-supplied storage media and, in some cases, benefit from user familiarity with setup or configuration processes. Ultimately, the best choice depends on how much weight you place on performance, expandability, software polish, and overall system control within this tightly priced segment.

 

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Reinventing NAS?

The Minisforum N5 Pro marks the company’s first deliberate step into the network-attached storage (NAS) segment, building upon its established experience in producing compact desktops, mini-PCs, and workstation-class hardware. First hinted at during industry discussions at IFA 2024 and formally revealed during CES 2025 in Nevada, the N5 Pro was later showcased in its near-final form at Computex 2025 in Taipei before entering production. Positioned as a high-performance NAS platform for advanced users, homelab enthusiasts, and small business operators, the N5 Pro aims to deliver server-class processing and expandability within a familiar, small-footprint chassis design. Alongside the N5 Pro, Minisforum released a standard N5 model at a lower price point, utilizing an 8-core processor without ECC memory support but retaining the same overall feature set and drive layout. Both systems ship with Minisforum’s proprietary MinisCloud OS pre-installed on a 64GB NVMe SSD, while remaining fully compatible with third-party NAS operating systems such as TrueNAS, Unraid, or Linux distributions. This review examines the N5 Pro model in detail, including its industrial design, internal hardware configuration, connectivity options, bundled software, real-world performance testing, and overall value proposition within the evolving NAS market.

The is now available to buy: Minisforum N5 Pro (Check Amazon) – HERE Minisforum N5 Pro (Check AliExpress) – HERE Shop for NAS Hard Drives on Amazon – HERE Shop for SSDs for your N5 Pro on Amazon – HERE IMPORTANT – Below are the links to the OFFICIAL Minisforum site to buy the N5 and N5 Pro. However, using these links does not support us (i.e we do not get an affiliate fee). We want you to buy this device from whichever retailer best suits your needs, but we hope you are able to support the work we do (such as this review and our YouTube channel) but using the links above for your storage media, or any other data storage/network solution purchase. Minisforum N5 on Official Site- HERE Minisforum N5 Pro on Official Site – HERE

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Quick Conclusion

The Minisforum N5 Pro is an impressive and highly versatile NAS platform that successfully combines the core strengths of a storage appliance with the capabilities of a compact, workstation-class server, making it suitable for demanding and varied use cases. Its defining features include a 12-core Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU with 24 threads and onboard AI acceleration up to 50 TOPS, support for up to 96GB of ECC-capable DDR5 memory for data integrity, and a hybrid storage architecture offering up to 144TB total capacity through a mix of five SATA bays and three NVMe/U.2 slots. Additional highlights such as ZFS file system support with snapshots, inline compression, and self-healing, along with high-speed networking via dual 10GbE and 5GbE ports, and expansion through PCIe Gen 4 ×16 and OCuLink interfaces, position it well beyond the capabilities of typical consumer NAS systems. The compact, fully metal chassis is easy to service and efficiently cooled, enabling continuous operation even under sustained virtual machine, AI, or media workloads. At the same time, the bundled MinisCloud OS, while feature-rich with AI photo indexing, Docker support, and mobile integration, remains a work in progress, lacking some enterprise-grade polish, robust localization, and more advanced tools expected in mature NAS ecosystems. Minor drawbacks such as the external PSU, the thermally challenged pre-installed OS SSD, and the higher cost of the Pro variant relative to the standard N5 are important to weigh, particularly for users who may not fully utilize the Pro’s ECC and AI-specific advantages. For advanced users, homelab builders, and technical teams who require high compute density, flexible storage, and full control over their software stack, the N5 Pro delivers workstation-level performance and configurability in NAS form—offering one of the most forward-thinking and adaptable solutions available today in this segment.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Design and Storage

The Minisforum N5 Pro continues the company’s emphasis on compact yet industrial-grade hardware, retaining a desktop-friendly footprint of 199 x 202 x 252 mm and weighing just under 5 kg. Its exterior is constructed from anodized aluminum alloy, which not only enhances durability but also serves as part of the system’s passive thermal management by dispersing residual heat through the shell.

The front panel is understated, housing clearly labeled LEDs for system status, network activity indicators for both network interfaces, and separate activity lights for each of the five SATA bays.

A recessed power button with integrated LED, reset hole, and anti-theft lock slot round out the front-facing controls. The system’s modular internal structure divides the upper and lower sections cleanly, with the drive cage occupying the top tier and the motherboard and expansion slots housed below.

The slide-out tray design for the storage cage facilitates fast maintenance and upgrades, and access to all internal components requires minimal disassembly, aided by two easily removable rear screws and a fully detachable back panel. This thoughtful layout supports not only ease of serviceability but also helps maintain clean cable management for improved airflow.

The N5 Pro’s storage architecture is designed for maximum flexibility and density within its size constraints. The primary storage array comprises five individual 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA 3.0 bays arranged in a stacked configuration at the front of the chassis. Each bay supports drives of up to 22TB, allowing a maximum mechanical storage capacity of 110TB, which positions the N5 Pro among the most storage-dense NAS devices in its class.

Unlike some competing NAS designs that rely on port multiplexing, each SATA port on the N5 Pro is directly connected to the mainboard without oversubscription, ensuring consistent throughput per drive. Beyond the five SATA bays, the system includes three additional high-speed NVMe slots.

Two of these support either M.2 or U.2 SSDs up to 15TB each, while the remaining slot supports an M.2 SSD up to 4TB.

Minisforum includes an adapter to convert the two U.2-compatible slots to standard M.2 form factor if desired, which accommodates more commonly available SSDs without sacrificing future enterprise U.2 upgrade options.

In its default shipping configuration, the N5 Pro arrives with a 64GB M.2 2230 SSD preinstalled, preloaded with MinisCloud OS. This small OS drive occupies one M.2 slot and can be replaced with a larger, higher-performance SSD if needed.

The device supports a full suite of RAID levels, both through hardware and software configuration, thanks to its ZFS-based storage stack within MinisCloud OS. Users can configure the five SATA bays in RAID 0 for maximum throughput, RAID 1 or RAID 10 for redundancy, or RAIDZ1/RAID5 and RAIDZ2/RAID6 for more advanced parity protection.

The combination of ZFS and hardware flexibility allows mixed configurations, where NVMe SSDs can be dedicated to cache or high-performance “hot” data pools while SATA disks serve as mass storage. This arrangement supports scenarios like virtual machine hosting alongside archival media storage in a single chassis. Notably, ZFS features such as inline LZ4 compression and snapshot-based recovery are natively supported in MinisCloud OS, enabling efficient storage utilization and simplified recovery workflows.

During extended operation with fully populated SATA bays and NVMe slots, the drives maintained expected IOPS and sustained throughput without any noticeable drop in performance, a reflection of the system’s balanced backplane and effective drive isolation.

The 5 SATA Bay cage is connected to then main board with a 2GB/20Gb/s connection and is managed by the SATA sata JMicron Technology Corp. JMB58x

The physical implementation of drive installation is straightforward, with each SATA tray supporting toolless insertion and clearly numbered for easy identification. The trays are designed to accommodate both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives securely, while the NVMe and U.2 slots are easily accessible on the motherboard side of the chassis. Importantly, the U.2 support provides access to enterprise-class SSDs, which offer higher durability, better thermal tolerance, and larger capacities compared to consumer NVMe drives.

This feature caters to professional environments where storage write endurance is critical. The SATA backplane is integrated into the drive cage and connects cleanly to the motherboard with no loose cabling, simplifying airflow management and minimizing potential points of failure. Throughout the chassis, Minisforum has kept the cable routing tidy, with wiring harnesses anchored to prevent obstruction of airflow paths or contact with hot surfaces.

Cooling for the storage components is managed through a well-considered combination of passive and active elements. Front-side intake vents direct cool air across the SATA drives, while two dedicated rear-mounted exhaust fans draw heat away from the drive array and motherboard area.

The vented base panel assists with maintaining negative pressure and facilitating lateral airflow, preventing localized hot spots.

The NVMe and U.2 SSDs benefit from placement near the rear and bottom fans, maintaining acceptable temperatures under sustained workloads.

Interestingly, you can see the similarities in the design of the brand’s current smaller workstation systems, with their 2 fan (top and bottom) placement – they have just built on top of this by introducing the storage and it’s own dedicated cooling.

The 64GB OS SSD, however, does not feature a dedicated heatsink and was observed to operate at relatively high temperatures during stress testing—likely due to its compact 2230 form factor. Users opting to keep MinisCloud OS on this drive may consider upgrading to a larger, better-cooled SSD for improved thermal performance.

Despite its compact footprint, the system’s thermal behavior remained predictable during long periods of mixed I/O, demonstrating that Minisforum’s chassis and airflow design are effective at keeping the storage subsystem within operational limits.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the Minisforum N5 Pro differentiates itself from its standard N5 counterpart primarily through its more powerful processor, memory capabilities, and additional AI acceleration hardware. At the heart of the system is the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370, a Zen 5-based CPU offering 12 cores and 24 threads, with a base clock as low as 2.0 GHz for low-power states and a maximum boost clock of up to 5.1 GHz under peak loads.

The inclusion of ECC support in the Pro variant enables the use of error-correcting DDR5 memory modules—essential in mission-critical environments where data integrity is a priority. The non-Pro model, by contrast, is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 255, offering 8 cores and 16 threads, a slightly higher base clock at 3.3 GHz, but no support for ECC memory.

This choice in processors reflects different target audiences: the Pro version is designed for advanced workloads, AI model inference, and demanding multi-threaded tasks, whereas the standard N5 targets more conventional NAS and multimedia use cases. Both CPUs have a very similar integrated GPU architecture (only around 0.1Ghz of difference and similar engine design), however the non-PRO CPU R7 255 CPU actually has 20 PCIe Lanes, compared with the 16 Lanes of the HX370. Despite this, both the Pro and Non Pro have the exact same Ports, connections and lane speeds for the SSD bays and PCIe upgrade slot! So, unsure if these additional lanes are picking up slack somewhere I cannot see, or are insured (likely the former).

The Pro variant also integrates AMD’s Radeon 890M integrated graphics with 12 compute units based on the RDNA 3 architecture, supporting burst frequencies up to 2.9 GHz, which is advantageous for tasks requiring GPU-accelerated transcoding or light graphical workloads. This is a small step up from the Radeon 780M present in the standard N5, which tops out at 2.7 GHz and features fewer compute units. Notably, the N5 Pro includes a dedicated AI Neural Processing Unit (NPU) rated up to 50 TOPS (trillions of operations per second), which is absent in the standard N5. This NPU is leveraged by MinisCloud OS for AI-based features such as photo recognition and intelligent indexing, and may also benefit advanced users deploying AI workloads in containerized environments or VMs – but REALISTICALLY the main draw for this CPU and in AI deployment would be true edge-AI and LOCALLY deploying an LLM/AI on the system effectively (ChatGPT, Deepseek, etc).  Together, these enhancements give the Pro configuration a performance and feature set closer to workstation-class hardware while maintaining NAS functionality.

Memory capacity and bandwidth are also noteworthy. Both variants of the N5 support up to 96GB of DDR5 memory across two SO-DIMM slots, operating at up to 5600 MT/s. In the Pro, ECC modules can be installed for error correction, while the standard model is limited to non-ECC DDR5. ECC memory is an important differentiator in enterprise and data-centric scenarios, preventing silent data corruption and improving long-term system stability.

The unit tested for this review was populated with 96GB of ECC DDR5, which performed consistently and without detectable error events during extended uptime tests. The system’s DDR5 architecture provides approximately 75% more bandwidth than equivalent DDR4 configurations, which is beneficial for high-concurrency operations, ZFS scrubbing, and virtual machine memory allocation. In effect, this memory flexibility makes the N5 Pro adaptable for both small office file sharing and more advanced computational tasks such as AI training or multi-VM deployments.

Minisforum’s choice to pair these components with a full range of storage and expansion interfaces ensures that none of the hardware is bottlenecked under realistic workloads. The PCIe Gen 4×16 slot and OCuLink port are physically accessible from within the chassis and are routed directly to CPU lanes, ensuring optimal throughput for expansion cards or external GPU enclosures.  Thermal management of the internal hardware is also carefully designed: copper heatpipes, a dedicated CPU fan on the base, rear exhaust fans, and airflow channels work in tandem to keep CPU, GPU, and memory temperatures in line, even under sustained heavy usage. In testing, the CPU maintained stable boost clocks without throttling, and the DIMM temperatures remained within specification. This level of hardware specification in a NAS-class device positions the N5 Pro well beyond the scope of typical consumer NAS appliances, edging into workstation territory while retaining the flexibility and storage capabilities of a dedicated file server.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Ports and Connections

The Minisforum N5 Pro offers a broad set of connectivity options designed to cater to a variety of deployment scenarios, from conventional NAS file sharing to more specialized compute and expansion use cases. On the rear panel, the system includes two dedicated Ethernet ports: one 10GbE RJ45 port based on the AQC113 controller, and a secondary 5GbE RJ45 port driven by a Realtek RTL8126.

Both ports support auto-negotiation and full-duplex operation, with the 10GbE interface capable of saturating high-speed networks for demanding workloads like multi-user file access, virtual machine networking, or high-resolution media streaming. Testing confirmed the ports could operate independently or together under link aggregation protocols provided by the installed OS. NIC activity LEDs are also front-mounted, providing clear visual feedback on link state and throughput. This dual-port setup makes it feasible to separate public and private subnets or configure failover for improved reliability in critical environments.

Beyond networking, the N5 Pro provides extensive high-speed peripheral and display interfaces. Two USB4 ports (with Alternate Mode DisplayPort 2.0 support) are located on the rear panel, each capable of delivering up to 20 Gbps and supporting external storage enclosures or even GPU enclosures over Thunderbolt/USB4. A single HDMI 2.1 FRL output is present, supporting up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz resolution for administrators who wish to attach a local display directly to the NAS for maintenance, media playback, or monitoring.

Additional USB ports include two USB 3.2 Gen2 ports and a legacy USB 2.0 port for basic peripherals. The USB4 interfaces can also facilitate high-speed direct transfers to and from supported devices, though these capabilities are more fully realized under MinisCloud OS than third-party platforms. This is a big deal and allows for 2 more DIRECT 20Gb/s clients to connect to the system via the 2x USB4 ports, as well as the 5GbE and 10GbE connection!

Additionally, the USB4 Port, thanks to earlier testing of this setup on the Minisforum X1 AI Pro, allow for a USB4 SSD drive to comfortably deliver 3000/1500MB/s for backups as needed.

Together, these ports make the N5 Pro unusually versatile compared to typical NAS devices that tend to offer only basic USB and HDMI output.

For users who require expansion beyond the system’s standard storage and networking options, the inclusion of a full-length PCIe Gen 4 ×16 slot (electrically wired as ×4) and an OCuLink PCIe Gen 4 ×4 port provides meaningful flexibility. The PCIe slot is accessible from within the chassis and supports a variety of cards, including additional NICs, AI accelerators, or storage controllers, while the OCuLink port offers external PCIe expansion for GPU enclosures or dedicated NVMe drive cages. I was able to install a 2x 10GbE NIC card into the PCIe slot AND still use the Oculink port for the Minisforum MGA1 eGPU! Software and SDriver support will be important, but nonetheless, this is some fantastic expandability and flexibility!

During testing, the OCuLink interface successfully interfaced with an external GPU, and appeared in the OS for passthrough to VMs, confirming its utility in advanced configurations. Minisforum’s choice to include both conventional PCIe and OCuLink enables users to adapt the system to evolving needs, whether for rendering tasks, AI workloads, or extending storage beyond the internal bays. This combination of high-speed networking, display output, and expansion interfaces demonstrates the system’s hybrid role as both a NAS and a general-purpose compute platform.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Software and Services

The Minisforum N5 Pro ships with a pre-installed operating system called MinisCloud OS, which runs from the included 64GB M.2 2230 SSD. Based on the FNOS platform, MinisCloud OS is a ZFS-enabled NAS operating system with a graphical web interface, mobile app support, and built-in services for media, backup, and collaboration. Users can choose to use MinisCloud OS out of the box or replace it entirely with third-party solutions such as TrueNAS, Unraid, or other Linux-based NAS distributions without voiding warranty coverage.

MinisCloud OS includes a desktop-accessible GUI, with menus covering storage management, RAID/ZFS pool creation, user and group permissions, Docker container deployment, and real-time monitoring. For users who prefer a turnkey NAS experience with minimal setup, MinisCloud OS provides a convenient starting point. However, it is worth noting that the OS is still maturing; some parts of the interface, particularly language localization and advanced feature polish, are clearly in active development.

At the core of MinisCloud OS is its ZFS-based storage engine, which enables advanced features such as snapshots, inline LZ4 compression, self-healing integrity checks, and instant rollback of data pools. The snapshot interface is intuitive and responsive, allowing users to schedule, lock, and restore snapshots at a per-pool level with minimal steps. Compression is enabled by default, improving storage efficiency, particularly for highly repetitive or archival datasets.

While ZFS support is a welcome inclusion, the implementation of some monitoring features—such as SSD temperature and SMART data for NVMe drives—remains inconsistent, as noted during testing. Despite these limitations, MinisCloud OS is capable of handling mixed drive types in flexible RAID configurations (RAID 0/1/5/6/10/RAIDZ), combining high-speed NVMe SSDs with large-capacity SATA drives for tiered storage strategies. The OS also supports secure access controls, allowing administrators to segment personal, shared, and public storage spaces.

Beyond storage, MinisCloud OS offers a suite of applications targeting home and small office users. Media services include a basic DLNA server, AI-driven photo library with face and object recognition, and a music streaming module. While the AI photo library benefits from the NPU in the N5 Pro, testing showed mixed accuracy in object recognition and indexing. Backup services include one-click PC/Mac backups, scheduled sync jobs, and encrypted sharing via link-based access.

Docker support is also integrated, enabling users to deploy isolated containers for third-party apps and services. While these features align the OS with other consumer NAS ecosystems, they do feel less polished than more mature platforms from competitors, and gaps such as lack of native iSCSI target creation or advanced security scanning were noticeable. MinisCloud OS seems best suited as a lightweight, user-friendly option for those who do not wish to invest time configuring a third-party OS but may not satisfy advanced enterprise users.

The inclusion of fully offline account creation and per-user container isolation demonstrates Minisforum’s efforts to balance privacy and flexibility. No cloud account is required to use the OS, and user isolation ensures that data in Docker containers remains segregated across different accounts. Public network traversal and encrypted external sharing are supported through the web portal, making it possible to access data from outside the local network securely.

Mobile apps for Android and iOS mirror the desktop web interface and allow remote access and basic administrative tasks. Nevertheless, limitations in feature depth and the still-developing language localization suggest that while MinisCloud OS is functional and a helpful starting point, serious users will want to transition to platforms like TrueNAS or Unraid to unlock the full potential of the hardware.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Testing, Noise and Heat

In testing, the Minisforum N5 Pro demonstrated performance levels consistent with its workstation-class specifications, particularly in multi-threaded CPU tasks and mixed storage operations. Using TrueNAS and Unraid as alternative OS options during benchmarks, the system was able to sustain heavy virtual machine (VM) workloads without instability. The Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU maintained its advertised boost clocks of up to 5.1 GHz during short burst operations, while sustaining a lower but stable frequency under extended full-load scenarios. The 12 cores and 24 threads allowed deployment of up to 12 Windows VMs and multiple Linux containers concurrently, each with dedicated vCPUs and memory. Even with the CPU loaded at approximately 50%, overall system responsiveness remained acceptable, thanks in part to the large 96GB DDR5 memory pool available in the tested configuration. ECC support ensured no uncorrected memory errors were recorded throughout a 7-day continuous stress test, affirming the platform’s suitability for 24/7 environments.

Storage performance also met expectations, though it varied depending on drive type and configuration. The five SATA bays, populated with Seagate IronWolf HDDs and SATA SSDs, delivered consistent throughput in RAID 5 and RAID 6 pools, with sequential read speeds averaging 900–1000 MB/s and writes around 800 MB/s under ZFS.

NVMe performance was significantly higher: the two Gen 4 ×1 M.2 slots achieved sustained reads of approximately 1.7 GB/s and writes of 1.6 GB/s, while the single Gen 4 ×2 M.2 slot reached peak reads of 3.3 GB/s and writes of 3.1 GB/s, approaching the theoretical limits of the interface.

Transfer speeds between SSDs in mixed-slot configurations were observed at 1.2–1.3 GB/s, indicating some internal contention or chipset limitation at the aggregate level.

The U.2 adapter included with the unit allowed testing of enterprise-class SSDs, which performed within expected parameters, though thermals for these drives require attention in prolonged heavy write scenarios.

Network performance aligned with the hardware’s 10GbE and 5GbE capabilities. The AQC113-based 10GbE NIC saturated its link easily during single and multi-stream transfers, maintaining over 900 MB/s sustained throughput in SMB and iSCSI workloads. The secondary 5GbE port also performed well, delivering consistent ~480 MB/s transfers in environments where full 10GbE infrastructure was unavailable. Link aggregation configurations were tested using LACP, though practical benefits were limited due to single-client testing constraints. USB4 and OCuLink connections were tested using external NVMe enclosures and a GPU eGPU box, both of which enumerated properly in the OS and achieved PCIe-level throughput. These features open possibilities for specialized use cases, such as GPU passthrough to VMs or offloading compute-intensive tasks to external accelerators.

Thermal and acoustic performance were also evaluated under a variety of workloads. At idle, the N5 Pro maintained a noise floor of approximately 32–34 dBA with fans set to automatic, rising to 48–51 dBA when forced to maximum. This places it within an acceptable range for small office or homelab deployments. CPU temperatures stayed within safe operating limits, averaging 40–42°C at idle and peaking at 78–80°C under full load during VM and Plex transcoding stress tests.

Drive temperatures were generally stable, although the pre-installed 64GB OS SSD exhibited higher than ideal temperatures, reaching 60°C under prolonged access. Power draw varied significantly with workload: idle power consumption was around 32–34W, increasing to roughly 80W under combined heavy CPU, storage, and 10GbE load. These results confirm that the system is both efficient at idle and capable of scaling up when fully utilized.

Minisforum N5 Pro Review – Conclusion & Verdict

The Minisforum N5 Pro firmly establishes itself as a hybrid solution that blurs the lines between a high-performance NAS appliance and a compact workstation-class server. It combines server-grade processing, memory integrity features, and robust storage options in a footprint comparable to many consumer NAS systems. Equipped with the 12-core Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU, ECC-capable DDR5 memory support, an intelligent ZFS-ready storage architecture, and an unusually broad range of expansion options—including PCIe Gen 4 and OCuLink—the N5 Pro is clearly targeted at advanced users and small professional teams with more demanding and diversified workloads than those served by entry-level NAS units. In practical testing, the system proved capable of maintaining high multi-threaded performance during intensive virtualized environments, delivering consistent high-throughput over 10GbE networking, and retaining stable thermals even under extended peak activity. The compact, fully metal chassis design provides excellent serviceability and sufficient cooling despite the dense hardware configuration, while the support for both U.2 and M.2 enterprise-class SSDs further broadens its application to mixed storage, caching, and high-availability scenarios. However, while the bundled MinisCloud OS offers a wide feature set—including snapshots, AI-driven indexing, and containerization—it remains a relatively immature platform compared to industry standards like TrueNAS and Unraid. Users looking for long-term OS maturity and advanced ecosystem integration will likely opt to replace it with one of these more established alternatives, which is fully supported without affecting warranty coverage.

Potential buyers should consider carefully whether the specific advantages of the N5 Pro—namely, its additional CPU cores, ECC memory support, and AI-specific compute capabilities—justify its higher price over the standard N5 model, which offers identical storage and connectivity at a lower cost by using a more modest processor and omitting ECC. For workloads that include high-density virtualization, multi-user environments where data integrity is paramount, or AI-enhanced workflows such as photo indexing or local inference tasks, the Pro variant’s premium hardware is likely to pay dividends. On the other hand, for simpler NAS duties such as centralized backups, media streaming, and file sharing, the standard N5 offers nearly all of the same physical functionality for significantly less. It is also worth noting the few limitations that arose during testing: the external PSU design may not appeal to all users; the thermal behavior of the bundled 64GB OS SSD suggests it should be upgraded for sustained use; and the unfinished aspects of MinisCloud OS—particularly its localization, advanced monitoring, and some missing enterprise-grade protocols—leave room for refinement. None of these are deal-breaking, but they highlight that this system is best suited for technically confident users who plan to fully exploit its hardware capabilities. Taken together, the N5 Pro stands out as a capable and flexible NAS platform, offering a level of performance and configurability rarely seen at this scale. For those willing to invest the time to install and tune their preferred OS and storage strategy, it represents one of the more forward-thinking and technically ambitious NAS options currently available. For users seeking a fully polished, plug-and-play appliance experience, however, more mature offerings from Synology, QNAP, or Asustor may still be the better fit for their needs.

PROS of the Minisforum N5 Pro

CONS of the Minisforum N5 Pro

High-performance AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU with 12 cores, 24 threads, and AI acceleration (50 TOPS NPU) is INCREDIBLE for a compact desktop purchase Support for up to 96GB DDR5 memory with ECC, ensuring data integrity and stability in critical environments ZFS-ready storage with numerous ZFS and TRADITIONAL RAID configurations, snapshots, and inline compression Hybrid storage support: five 3.5″/2.5″ SATA bays plus three NVMe/U.2 SSD slots, with up to 144TB total capacity Versatile expansion options including PCIe Gen 4 ×16 slot (×4 electrical) and OCuLink port for GPUs or NVMe cages Dual high-speed networking: 10GbE and 5GbE RJ45 ports with link aggregation support + (using the inclusive MinisCloud OS) the use of the USB4 ports for direct PC/Mac connection! Fully metal, compact, and serviceable chassis with thoughtful cooling and accessible internal layout – makes maintenance, upgrades and troubleshooting a complete breeze! Compatibility with third-party OSes (TrueNAS, Unraid, Linux) without voiding warranty, offering flexibility for advanced users

MinisCloud OS is functional but immature, with unfinished localisation and limited advanced enterprise features – lacks MFA, iSCSI, Security Scanner and More. Nails several key fundamentals, but still feels unfinished at this time. Despite External PSU design (will already annoy some users), it generates a lot of additional heat and may not appeal to all users overall Preinstalled 64GB OS SSD runs hot under sustained use and lacks dedicated cooling. Plus, losing one of the 3 m.2 slots to it will not please everyone (most brands manage to find a way to apply an eMMC into the board more directly, or use a USB bootloader option as a gateway for their OS Premium $1000+ pricing may be hard to justify for users who don’t need ECC memory or AI capabilities compared to the standard N5 at $500+

The is now available to buy: Minisforum N5 Pro (Check Amazon) – HERE Minisforum N5 Pro (Check AliExpress) – HERE Shop for NAS Hard Drives on Amazon – HERE Shop for SSDs for your N5 Pro on Amazon – HERE IMPORTANT – Below are the links to the OFFICIAL Minisforum site to buy the N5 and N5 Pro. However, using these links does not support us (i.e we do not get an affiliate fee). We want you to buy this device from whichever retailer best suits your needs, but we hope you are able to support the work we do (such as this review and our YouTube channel) but using the links above for your storage media, or any other data storage/network solution purchase. Minisforum N5 on Official Site- HERE Minisforum N5 Pro on Official Site – HERE

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Best NAS You Can Buy Right Now (Mid-2025) for Under $249

As personal data storage needs continue to grow in 2025, more users are seeking cost-effective alternatives to cloud services and monthly subscription platforms. Whether you’re backing up years of photos, hosting your own video library, or managing light business data locally, a dedicated NAS (Network Attached Storage) device offers greater privacy and control without recurring fees. Fortunately, the sub-$249 price point now includes a variety of surprisingly capable systems. Thanks to developments in low-power processors, DDR5 memory adoption, and more efficient operating systems, these devices can now handle everything from Plex streaming to light container workloads with relative ease. In this article, we explore five NAS solutions currently available at or below this price point, offering a balance of performance, connectivity, and storage potential for those looking to build their own storage solution on a modest budget.

Important Disclaimer and Notes Before You Buy!

Before diving into the specific NAS models, it’s important to understand the limitations and shared characteristics of devices in this price range. Most sub-$249 NAS units do not include any hard drives or SSDs, and many rely on M.2 NVMe slots or 2.5″/3.5″ SATA bays that must be populated separately. Some models ship with basic onboard storage (e.g., 32GB–64GB eMMC) sufficient only for the operating system. As such, the actual cost of getting a fully operational NAS with adequate storage for your needs may exceed the base unit price. Buyers should also be aware that these devices are best suited for home users, personal cloud use, and entry-level tasks, rather than intensive business or enterprise workloads. Additionally, several of the devices covered in this list do not come with a full-featured NAS operating system. Instead, they either rely on lightweight Linux-based platforms like CasaOS or ZimaOS, or they provide a basic UI designed for local file access and container management. While these OS options are improving in terms of user-friendliness, they may lack advanced features like comprehensive RAID management, automated snapshots, or multi-user file permission systems found in higher-end platforms like Synology DSM or TrueNAS. These NAS units are most appropriate for users with some technical confidence, or for those looking for a basic plug-and-play setup with limited customization needs.

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Beelink ME Mini NAS – 6 Bay SSD NAS

$209 – Intel N150 – 12GB – No SSD (64GB eMMC Only) – 2x 2.5GbE + WiFi 6 – No OS / User Install – BUY HERE

The Beelink ME Mini is a compact NAS device aimed at users who want high-speed, SSD-based storage in a minimal footprint. Measuring just 99mm on each side, it features six M.2 2280 NVMe slots, providing up to 24TB of total capacity when fully populated. Powered by the Intel N150 processor and paired with 12GB of LPDDR5 memory, it offers a decent balance between performance and energy efficiency. Connectivity is handled via dual 2.5GbE LAN ports, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, making it suitable for both wired and wireless environments. The unit is cooled passively and contains an integrated power supply, reducing cable clutter and making it ideal for placement in home media setups or small offices.

However, the device does not include an operating system, and users will need to install a preferred NAS OS themselves — whether that’s CasaOS, Ubuntu Server, or something container-based. There’s also no bundled storage beyond the 64GB eMMC system partition, so the overall cost will rise depending on your NVMe selections. It lacks support for traditional 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA drives, making this NAS most suitable for users seeking a quiet, SSD-only setup with strong networking performance and flexibility for custom OS installation.

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GMKTec G9 NAS – 4 Bay M.2 NAS @ The lowest Price

$185.99 – Intel N150 – 12GB – No SSD (64GB eMMC Only) – 2x 2.5GbE + WiFi 6 – Ubuntu 24.10 (Preloaded, Switchable) – BUY HERE

The GMKTec G9 offers similar internal hardware to the Beelink ME Mini, including the same Intel N150 processor and 12GB of LPDDR5 memory, but with a more rectangular chassis and fewer SSD slots — four instead of six. The system includes 64GB of onboard eMMC storage, primarily used for booting Ubuntu 24.10, with the option to dual-boot into Windows 11 if a suitable SSD is installed. Like the Beelink, it lacks traditional SATA support and focuses on high-speed NVMe storage via M.2 2280 slots, up to 4TB per drive. The unit is cooled actively and includes dual HDMI outputs, making it more appealing for those who may want to use it as a lightweight desktop or media output device in addition to a NAS.

One of the notable differences is its broader OS support and better I/O variety, including three USB 3.2 ports and a DisplayPort-capable USB-C connector. This NAS is best suited to users looking for a more configurable or multi-purpose system with better visual output options. However, as with the Beelink, users must add their own NVMe storage, and setup requires a basic understanding of system boot configuration and OS installation. Note – this one GETS HOT, so get SSD heatsinks and ensure a good active airflow wherever you deploy it!

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Synology BeeStation 4TB NAS – ALL IN ONE!

$199 – Realtek RTD1619B – 1GB – 4TB SINGLE BAY – 1x 1GbE – BeeStation Manager (BSM) – BUY HERE

The Synology BeeStation 4TB is a fully integrated, single-bay NAS aimed squarely at users who want a no-setup-required solution. Unlike most NAS devices in this price range, it comes pre-configured with a 4TB internal hard drive and a sealed chassis, meaning users don’t need to source or install any storage themselves. It runs on a Realtek RTD1619B ARM-based processor, includes 1GB of DDR4 memory, and connects over a single 1GbE port. The included BeeStation Manager (BSM) OS is designed specifically for beginners, offering cloud-style file access, photo management, and mobile app integration with minimal technical effort.

This NAS is best suited to individuals or households that want a simple local backup and file-sharing solution that behaves more like a smart external hard drive than a customizable NAS. It supports basic multimedia functions, Synology mobile apps, and remote access features, but does not allow for internal expansion or RAID redundancy. The included USB-A and USB-C ports can be used for manual backups to external drives. However, because it’s a sealed single-drive unit with no RAID options, users should plan to back up to another location—either cloud or USB—to ensure data protection. Despite these limitations, its all-in-one design, 3-year warranty, and simple user experience make it one of the few truly plug-and-play NAS systems under $250.

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UGREEN NASync DXP2800 NAS – The New Challenger!

$249 – Intel N100 – 8GB – No Storage (32GB eMMC) – 1x 2.5GbE – UGOS Pro – BUY HERE

The UGREEN DXP2800 is part of the company’s NASync lineup, aimed at users who want a blend of expandability and affordability. It combines the practicality of traditional HDD storage with the performance benefits of SSDs, offering two 3.5″ SATA bays alongside two M.2 NVMe SSD slots for faster caching or active data operations. At the heart of the system is an Intel N100 processor, a 12th-generation quad-core chip from Intel’s energy-efficient N-series lineup, which supports both basic virtualization and multimedia streaming. This is paired with 8GB of DDR5 memory, non-ECC but upgradable, and a 32GB eMMC used solely for the preloaded UGOS Pro operating system. Connectivity is handled through a single 2.5GbE LAN port and a mix of USB ports on both front and rear panels — including USB-C and 10Gbps-capable USB-A. UGOS Pro, while relatively new, features a clean web-based interface with container support, RAID management (0, 1, JBOD), remote file sharing, and basic multimedia services.

While it lacks the ecosystem polish of Synology DSM or QNAP QTS, it is one of the few turnkey options in this price range that supports both SSD and HDD usage in a flexible, non-proprietary layout. However, buyers should still account for the need to install their own drives and configure the storage pools manually. It’s a solid balance of raw hardware potential and modest software capability for users willing to manage their setup beyond the initial boot.

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ZimaBoard 2 (832 Version) – DIY Enthusiast’s DREAM!

$199 – Intel N150 – 8GB – No Storage (32GB eMMC) – 2x 2.5GbE – ZimaOS – BUY HERE

The ZimaBoard 2 (832) is a low-profile, single-board NAS platform designed for flexibility and modularity rather than out-of-the-box convenience. Unlike traditional NAS systems with enclosures and tool-less drive bays, this unit is a bare embedded board that offers direct access to interfaces for those who want to build or customize their own setup. It is powered by the same Intel N150 quad-core processor used in other compact NAS systems, paired here with 8GB of LPDDR5x memory and 32GB of onboard eMMC storage for its pre-installed ZimaOS. This board features two powered SATA 3.0 ports, making it one of the few sub-$250 NAS options that supports HDDs natively without requiring USB-to-SATA adapters or expansion modules.

In terms of connectivity, the ZimaBoard 2 includes dual 2.5GbE LAN ports, USB 3.1, a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot, and a Mini DisplayPort output supporting 4K60 video. While the PCIe slot expands potential use cases (e.g., additional networking, storage, or accelerator cards), most users will opt to use the SATA ports for reliable storage first. The board is passively cooled with a large integrated heatsink and operates silently, but thermal performance may vary based on enclosure design and ambient temperature. It is particularly well-suited to DIY users looking to build a lightweight NAS, firewall, media server, or container host. ZimaOS includes a web-based UI and supports CasaOS and Linux-based OS alternatives, but configuration still requires basic familiarity with system setup and storage configuration. It’s not intended for users looking for plug-and-play simplicity, but rather those who want total control over their NAS hardware and software environment.

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Each of the NAS options presented here offers a different balance of hardware, expandability, and ease of use, while remaining under the $249 price threshold. Users who prefer pre-configured simplicity may lean toward the Synology BeeStation, while those seeking customization and SSD-focused performance might opt for the Beelink ME Mini or GMKTec G9. The UGREEN DXP2800 provides hybrid storage flexibility with a more developed software interface, and the ZimaBoard 2 appeals to technically inclined users who want complete control over their system stack. While no single device is perfect, all five represent viable paths toward local data ownership and self-hosted media or backup solutions without breaking the bank.

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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What Are Synology NAS Product Refreshes and What is Synology’s Logic?

When Synology introduces a new wave of NAS devices, it’s easy to assume that each new model is a significant leap forward. However, many of these launches are better classified as product refreshes, not entirely new product lines. This distinction matters. A refresh typically reuses a core hardware platform—such as the chassis, CPU, or layout—but includes modest updates like better network interfaces, more memory, or small component shifts. In 2025, Synology rolled out one of its broadest refresh cycles in years, affecting models across their two-bay, four-bay, five-bay, and eight-bay portfolios. Understanding what a refresh actually is helps users make more informed decisions, especially when evaluating whether to upgrade or wait.

Synology refreshes its products for a few practical reasons. First, component availability and pricing change over time. CPUs and other hardware elements that were once expensive or reserved for high-tier models often become more affordable, making them suitable for use in lower-tier devices. For example, the AMD V1500B processor, once exclusive to mid-tier and enterprise NAS systems, has trickled down into several 2025 refreshes like the DS925+ and DS1525+. Similarly, market-wide transitions—such as the shift from 1GbE to 2.5GbE—are reflected in these updates, allowing Synology to modernize existing models while keeping their manufacturing costs and prices relatively stable.

One of the key things that sets a refresh apart from a brand-new NAS model is Synology’s commitment to product tier consistency. Devices like the DS725+, DS425+, or DS1825+ aren’t being built to reinvent the wheel. Instead, they exist to preserve the price-to-performance balance that their predecessors established in the Synology product lineup. By holding onto the same CPU, expanding RAM slightly, and upgrading network ports from 1GbE to 2.5GbE, Synology keeps these NAS solutions within their traditional target audience—be it home users, prosumers, or small businesses. The physical design and key feature sets are familiar, and that’s deliberate. Refreshes aim to improve what already works, not redefine the category.

It’s also worth recognizing that Synology’s product refreshes are not aimed at recent buyers. If you just picked up a DS723+ or DS923+ last year, you are not the intended audience for the DS725+ or DS925+. Instead, these refreshes are aimed at users still running a DS216+, DS416, or DS1813+—users who are five to ten years deep into their existing systems. For them, the new hardware represents a meaningful leap forward, even if it looks modest on paper. When you compare a DS916+ to a DS925+, the differences in memory, CPU threads, M.2 caching, and DSM features become much more pronounced.

Pricing also plays a central role in Synology’s refresh strategy. For the most part, Synology tries to keep prices stable across generations, despite inflation and rising manufacturing costs. For example, the DS425+ and DS225+ refreshes, though modest in their hardware upgrades (mainly 2.5GbE LAN replacing 1GbE), still aim to hit the same price points as their DS423+ and DS224+ predecessors. This can make refreshes seem less appealing to new buyers comparing specs on a chart, but it serves long-term users who value Synology’s software ecosystem, consistent performance, and extended support.

One notable outlier in Synology’s refresh strategy is the continued use of the Intel Celeron J4125 processor, particularly in models like the DS425+, DS225+, and DS625slim. Despite Synology’s tendency to update hardware every 2–3 years based on market trends and component availability, the J4125—originally launched in 2019—feels increasingly outdated in 2025. Intel itself has moved away from the Celeron/J-series naming convention entirely, transitioning to more efficient and capable platforms like Alder Lake-N and N-series processors. This shift highlights just how long in the tooth the J4125 has become. With no support for newer instruction sets, lower efficiency compared to modern equivalents, and limited future compatibility, its continued presence in refreshed Synology NAS models stands in stark contrast to the broader trend of hardware advancement. While Synology has prioritized price consistency and DSM support, the persistence of this older CPU dampens the appeal of these refreshes for new buyers who expect more current internals at a similar price point.

Another important factor is Synology’s software-first development model. Their NAS hardware isn’t meant to push technical limits but rather serve as a stable, reliable platform for DSM (DiskStation Manager). That’s why even in refreshes, the focus is on compatibility and long-term support over flashy specs. Synology has made this clear through product cycles like the DS1825+, which retains the same CPU as the DS1821+ but gains 2.5GbE and better memory configuration—supporting the increasing demands of DSM applications without needing an overhaul of the entire system.

In summary, a product refresh in Synology’s ecosystem is not a groundbreaking redesign, but a thoughtful, incremental update within an established product profile. These refreshes ensure the long-term viability of key NAS tiers while adapting to evolving market standards like 2.5GbE, more demanding software workloads, or new expansion options. For long-time users, they offer an accessible upgrade path. For newcomers, they may seem underwhelming on paper. But in either case, they represent a balancing act between hardware, price, and software synergy, which has long been Synology’s model—whether you agree with it or not.

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Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review

The Aoostar WTR Max is a compact, AMD-powered NAS platform aimed at advanced users seeking a balance between high-density storage and compute capabilities. Designed as a substantial upgrade over the earlier WTR Pro model, it offers support for up to eleven total drives, including six SATA bays and five M.2 NVMe slots, all within a small desktop-style chassis. At its core is the AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS processor, featuring eight cores and sixteen threads, a 5.1 GHz boost clock, and integrated Radeon 780M graphics. The system also supports ECC memory configurations and is cooled by a multi-zone, vapor-chamber-based solution designed to accommodate extended uptime. Unlike many branded NAS systems, the WTR Max does not ship with a proprietary OS, instead encouraging users to install Linux-based distributions such as TrueNAS SCALE or Proxmox. With features like dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, an OCuLink expansion port, and USB4, the unit is aimed at homelab operators, multimedia professionals, and technically proficient users looking for a customizable and high-performance alternative to locked-down NAS appliances.

The Aoostar WTR MAX Nas is available from the following places: Aoostar WTR Max NAS on (Check Amazon) – HERE Aoostar R1 N150 2-Bay NAS $179 – HERE Aoostar R7 4-Bay NAS $419 – HERE Aoostar R7 2-Bay 5825U NAS $399 – HERE Aoostar Oculink 800W ePCIe Docking Station $169 – HERE Aoostar GEN12 Gen4 PC $374 on AliExpress – HERE

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The Aoostar WTR Max stands out as a rare blend of high storage density, advanced connectivity, and raw compute performance in a compact NAS form factor, making it well-suited for experienced users seeking a versatile, self-managed platform. With support for up to 11 drives—six SATA and five NVMe Gen 4—paired with an enterprise-grade Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS CPU and ECC memory compatibility, the system offers workstation-class capabilities for storage-heavy workflows, including virtualization, multimedia processing, and hybrid file serving. Dual 10GbE SFP+ and dual 2.5GbE ports provide ample bandwidth for multi-user access or isolated subnet roles, while the OCuLink interface enables high-speed external expansion, compensating for the absence of a traditional PCIe slot. Additional benefits like a fully customizable LCD status display, low fan noise, and consistently low thermals under load reinforce the system’s value in 24/7 deployments.

However, the WTR Max does present some caveats—namely, internal NVMe cross-performance appears constrained by shared bandwidth, and the lack of an internal PCIe slot could be limiting for users requiring more conventional upgrade paths. The LCD panel’s configuration software also proved cumbersome, raising security flags and requiring manual IP client setup, which may deter less technically inclined users. Lastly, the use of an external 280W PSU—while effective—won’t appeal to those expecting internal power integration in a workstation-style chassis. Nonetheless, for users who value full control over their NAS stack and want to avoid restrictive ecosystems, the WTR Max delivers a rare combination of hardware freedom and scalability that few turnkey systems offer in this price and size category.

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Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Design & Storage

Physically, the Aoostar WTR Max is housed in a full-metal anodized aluminum alloy chassis that balances structural rigidity with passive thermal conductivity. The exterior finish is minimal but functional, offering side ventilation cutouts and removable access panels secured with thumb screws. Despite its relatively compact form factor for an 11-bay NAS system, the unit features six front-facing drive trays, each supporting 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives.

These trays use a click-and-load design—no tools required—which simplifies drive installation and replacement. During prolonged hands-on testing, the trays handled both consumer-grade HDDs and Synology enterprise-class drives without mechanical or airflow restricting conflict, making compatibility a non-issue for most users. The structural alignment of the trays channels cool air from bottom-front intake vents across the drives and out the rear via dual exhaust fans, ensuring thermal separation between the storage and compute areas even during continuous multi-drive operation.

Beyond the six SATA bays, the WTR Max incorporates five PCIe Gen 4 M.2 NVMe 2280 slots, enabling dense solid-state storage directly on the mainboard and modular trays. Four of these are mounted within a vertically oriented, removable tray situated at the end of the main drive bay stack. This spring-loaded tray resembles modular SSD carriers found in more expensive enterprise-grade systems and allows for rapid SSD swaps or upgrades. Also, each of the 4 m.2 slots on this 7th bay still had room for a standard m.2 heatsink too!

The fifth M.2 slot is positioned horizontally on the motherboard base, adjacent to the DDR5 SODIMM slots and covered by an active cooling fan. Of the five slots, two run at PCIe Gen 4 x1 and two at Gen 4 x2, with the fifth—on the motherboard—also supporting Gen 4 x2. Testing confirmed sufficient physical clearance for installing large NVMe heatsinks on all slots, and SSDs remained within optimal temperature ranges even under sustained I/O workloads.

Internally, the SATA subsystem is controlled via an ASMedia ASM1166 controller operating over a PCIe Gen 3 x2 interface, capable of delivering up to 2GB/s total throughput across all six bays. This bandwidth is sufficient for both HDD arrays and SATA SSDs, and is particularly well-suited for software-managed RAID configurations in Linux-based OSes such as Unraid, TrueNAS, or OpenMediaVault.

During testing, mixed workloads involving simultaneous read/write access across multiple HDDs and SSDs were handled without observable I/O queueing or temperature spikes. Drive temperatures averaged between 38°C and 45°C during a 24-hour benchmark run, with airflow guided from the bottom intake and over the storage chamber by the dual rear exhaust fans—ensuring consistent cooling across all drive positions, even during power-on-demand cycles triggered by scheduled remote backups.

The design of the seventh modular tray holding four of the M.2 NVMe slots is particularly noteworthy. Rather than opting for fixed PCB slots that require full disassembly for access, Aoostar implemented a removable cartridge system similar to those found in rack-mounted server appliances. This tray locks in place without screws, and its spring-loaded retention system provides firm pressure on runners inside once installed beneath the SSDs. This is a very smooth ejection and injection system for this extra bay!

Air is directed over this tray by the two rear-mounted fans, with additional airflow routed from below via the central fan on the base of the chassis. In testing, even under back-to-back file transfer tests using Unraid’s file mover and native benchmark tools, SSD temperatures rarely exceeded 48°C. The inclusion of independent airflow for the NVMe zone demonstrates thoughtful separation of thermal domains within the small enclosure, reducing the chance of thermal throttling during concurrent high-speed transfers.

The drive configuration options available on the WTR Max support a flexible tiered storage approach—useful in both home lab and small office environments. For instance, the six SATA bays can accommodate high-capacity HDDs (up to 24TB each), suitable for media archiving or surveillance video, while the M.2 slots can be allocated for fast read/write operations, app deployments, or SSD caching layers. Real-world bandwidth testing of these drives showed the Gen 4 x1 slots achieving around 1.6GB/s read speeds and the Gen 4 x2 slots reaching 2.9GB/s, aligning with their advertised capabilities.

Although inter-M.2 transfer rates peaked at 500–600MB/s—suggesting internal lane bottlenecks (i.e sending data between each of the 4 m.2 on this 7th bay) —the system still provided consistent and predictable performance. This architecture supports phased upgrades, allowing users to populate the system gradually based on workload growth without disassembling core components or compromising airflow design.

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Internal Hardware

At the core of the Aoostar WTR Max lies the AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS processor, an 8-core, 16-thread chip built on the Zen 4 architecture using TSMC’s 4nm process. This processor, operating with a base clock of 3.8 GHz and boosting up to 5.1 GHz, is typically found in business-class notebooks and embedded workstations. Its inclusion in a NAS-oriented device marks a shift toward more versatile and compute-intensive roles for compact systems.

It also supports configurable TDPs of 35W, 45W, and up to 54W, depending on cooling and power profiles, allowing the system to balance efficiency and performance based on workload. Integrated Radeon 780M graphics, based on the RDNA 3 architecture with 12 compute units, deliver hardware-accelerated AV1, HEVC, and H.264 encoding and decoding. During stress testing, the WTR Max handled simultaneous 4K and 8K video transcoding jobs in Plex with CPU usage remaining below 50%, thanks in part to hardware transcoding support via the integrated GPU. This level of onboard media processing is rare in NAS systems, even among high-end appliances.

In terms of memory support, the device offers two DDR5-5600 SODIMM slots, allowing for up to 128GB of total RAM. More notably, the platform supports ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory when paired with compatible modules—an enterprise-grade feature typically limited to workstation-class motherboards. While the review unit shipped with 32GB of standard DDR5 memory, ECC compatibility was verified via low-level SSH diagnostics and BIOS interrogation, confirming that ECC is fully operational at the hardware level.

During tests involving Proxmox, six Windows 10 virtual machines and two Ubuntu VMs ran concurrently, with each VM allocated 2 to 4 vCPUs and 2 to 4 GB of memory. No instability or memory-related errors were recorded, and the system maintained consistent performance under variable load conditions. The side-by-side DIMM slot arrangement benefits from direct airflow via the base intake fan, which also provides passive cooling to the adjacent motherboard-mounted NVMe SSD slot.

Thermal performance is managed by Aoostar’s proprietary Glacier Pro 1.0 cooling solution, which integrates a vapor chamber heat spreader on the CPU and a multi-fan chassis ventilation layout. The vapor chamber, paired with a low-profile active cooler, rapidly disperses thermal load from the CPU across the copper plate, minimizing heat concentration during burst operations. The system features four fans: one at the base pulling intake air upward across the motherboard, two rear-mounted exhaust fans, and one CPU-mounted blower. Each thermal zone—CPU, NVMe tray, and SATA chamber—benefits from isolated airflow paths.

During a 24-hour access schedule test simulating hourly user activity, CPU temperatures ranged from 35°C at idle to 49°C under peak load with 10GbE transfers and active virtual machines. Even when pushing the system with forced maximum fan speed and high CPU utilization, recorded noise output remained within 43–44 dBA, with a base idle level of 35–38 dBA.

For a system with this many internal components—including six HDDs, five SSDs, and four fans—the acoustic footprint was relatively modest, especially considering the close thermal spacing and the volume of air moved internally.

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The Aoostar WTR Max provides an unusually extensive networking suite for a system of its size, offering both high-speed and multi-interface flexibility. The two Intel X710-based 10GbE SFP+ ports support full duplex operation, making them ideal for NAS-to-NAS replication, large-scale Plex libraries, or multi-user editing environments via shared storage. These ports were tested using iPerf3 and real-world file transfers between NVMe pools and a 10GbE-connected workstation, showing stable saturation of the interface without fluctuation. As these are SFP, users are going to have to factor in tranceivers or DAC cables with tranceivers included), but as these two ports are so close together, using SFP-to-RJ45 adapters is going to be a question of temperature monitoring.

In addition, two 2.5GbE RJ45 Ethernet ports are available, which can be used in a variety of configurations including link aggregation, VLAN assignment, or as out-of-band management interfaces. The coexistence of fiber-based and copper-based networking within the same unit opens deployment to both consumer and prosumer setups. During tests, the user assigned one 2.5GbE interface to general network access while isolating 10GbE traffic to storage-only communication, demonstrating flexibility in segmentation.

USB and high-speed peripheral connectivity is equally comprehensive. The front of the device houses a USB 4.0 port, which supports Thunderbolt-like bandwidths (up to 40Gbps), display passthrough, and power delivery—making it suitable for external drive arrays, video output, or even docking stations. Next to it, a standard USB-C port and USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port provide backward compatibility for legacy peripherals. On the rear, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports were used during testing for attaching external backup drives and a keyboard/mouse combo during Proxmox installation.

All ports were recognized without driver conflicts in both Linux and Windows-based environments. The device also includes a microSD slot on the front, which proved useful for OS boot media, diagnostics, or fast access to camera footage. In the test scenario, the slot was used to quickly transfer small image files to the Plex container, and performance aligned with UHS-I speeds. This wide array of port options allows users to operate the WTR Max in both network-only and semi-local scenarios, such as multimedia servers with attached peripherals.

A standout feature in this device’s connectivity suite is the OCuLink port, which provides a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface for external expansion. This port was successfully used to attach an NVMe enclosure using a M.2-to-OCuLink bridge, allowing high-speed external storage without interfering with internal NVMe bandwidth allocation. Although hot-swapping is not supported, the stability and speed of the external connection matched internal Gen 4 performance. This is a notable advantage for users who require flexible expansion or temporary scratch drives without opening the chassis.

In the review scenario, the OCuLink port was also noted as a potential bridge to add GPU acceleration, external PCIe networking, or SAS HBA expansion—though Aoostar provides no internal PCIe slot, making the external route the only PCIe-level expansion path. This design choice reflects a compromise between size and flexibility, prioritizing I/O density over internal modularity. That said, oculink is not for everyone! And additional adapters such as eGPU are going to be needed if you are looking at upgrading network performance and are going to drastically increase your spend compared with traditional PCIe upgrades!

For users requiring local video output or dual-purpose NAS/workstation functionality, the WTR Max includes a rear-mounted HDMI 2.1 port supporting up to 4K at 240Hz, in addition to display-capable USB4 and USB-C ports depending on OS support. In practice, during Proxmox and Unraid testing, HDMI video output was used for initial OS installation and local monitoring. This can be useful for deployments involving virtual desktops, docker-based dashboards, or kiosk-style media servers. Audio is handled through a 3.5mm output jack, functional in Linux environments once the relevant drivers are installed.

On the front of the unit, Aoostar has implemented a customizable LCD display, accessible via proprietary software. While the software itself presented download warnings in some browsers and required IP-specific client setup, once configured it displayed real-time statistics such as CPU temperature, RAM usage, network throughput, and storage status. Multiple themes are included (e.g., cyberpunk, minimal, and stat-based), and the panel can be toggled on/off depending on user preference. Although not essential, the display provides a level of visual diagnostics uncommon in this product tier. This was the only area of the review that I found inconsistent and messy! Tapping into this specific internal IP, as well as using an application that was being flagged constantly by my windows system, AND trying to do this with the NAS behind 3 layers of network (my own setup) was not smooth. Additionally, although the LCD panel templates were useful, they did seem to contain a lot of copyright imagery (Cyberpunk, Pacman, etc) and I would question the comiance from their source! Hopefully this LCD control and customization gets smoothed out soon, as well as the app finishes it’s windows certification at least.

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Performance and Testing

The Aoostar WTR Max underwent a series of tests spanning disk benchmarks, live file transfers, mixed storage scenarios, and sustained uptime evaluations to assess its practical capabilities across NAS, virtualization, and media applications. In synthetic disk tests, the PCIe Gen 4 x1 NVMe slots delivered consistent read speeds of ~1.6 GB/s and write speeds just under 1.5 GB/s, while the Gen 4 x2 slots achieved peak sequential performance of ~2.9 GB/s read and ~2.8 GB/s write, aligning well with expected lane bandwidth.

These figures were observed under both Windows and Linux environments, using CrystalDiskMark and ATTO. However, during internal NVMe-to-NVMe copy operations—across both like-for-like (x2 to x2) and mixed (x1 to x2) configurations—transfer rates plateaued around 550 MB/s. This suggests the presence of a shared bus or controller limitation not disclosed by the vendor, though the speeds remained consistent with no unexpected drops. Importantly, SSD temperatures stayed within thermal spec, typically ranging from 38°C to 45°C under sustained use, aided by both airflow and full-sized heatsink compatibility.

For networking performance, the system’s dual 10GbE SFP+ interfaces were subjected to direct iPerf3 stress tests and real-world copy operations involving both SATA and NVMe-based storage arrays. Both ports reached saturation—approximately 9.5 Gbps—under bidirectional iPerf3 tests with no jitter or packet loss, even during simultaneous Plex streaming and background drive activity. SMB transfers of large 4K video files to a remote 10GbE-equipped workstation routinely exceeded 1.1 GB/s sustained, indicating that the system’s storage and network layers were well-aligned.

The two 2.5GbE RJ45 ports were also tested as either bridged interfaces in Proxmox or as failover backups, with VLAN tagging and static routing configured via systemd-networkd. No conflicts or bottlenecks were detected, even when running scheduled backups over one NIC while media was streamed through another. This concurrent multi-interface performance demonstrates how the WTR Max can comfortably handle mixed workloads across different network zones or physical infrastructure types.

Power consumption testing covered four defined usage scenarios to gauge idle and active draw under realistic conditions. With no drives installed and only the OS running from the onboard NVMe SSD, the system idled at just 18W, largely due to the mobile efficiency of the Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS and lack of mechanical components. Installing five M.2 SSDs increased baseline consumption to around 24W. With all six SATA bays populated using 8TB–18TB HDDs alongside five SSDs, power draw under passive load settled at approximately 52–53W. During full-load testing—consisting of active read/write operations on all drives, high-bitrate Plex streaming, dual 10GbE saturation, and 40–50% CPU usage—system draw fluctuated between 73W and 89W. These numbers fall within reasonable bounds for a 12-core-equivalent server system with 11 drives, four fans, and integrated GPU transcode activity. The external 280W power supply never exhibited instability and has sufficient overhead for adding expansion enclosures or OCuLink-powered peripherals like an eGPU or NVMe array.

Application testing further underscored the platform’s ability to support a hybrid range of tasks. In multimedia scenarios, Plex Media Server was configured to transcode a 400 Mbps 4K file, a 200 Mbps 4K stream, and two simultaneous 80 Mbps 8K/4K sources—all while maintaining fluid playback and system responsiveness. The integrated Radeon 780M handled these loads using hardware transcoding (VAAPI), keeping CPU load under 50% throughout. In a separate deployment, Proxmox was used to launch six Windows 10 VMs and two Ubuntu LTS servers, with each VM receiving 2–4 vCPUs and 2–4 GB of memory. All machines remained responsive under simultaneous browser, terminal, and light media workloads. Importantly, the LCD panel continued to provide accurate telemetry even during these test periods, showing live RAM, CPU, and storage activity. No kernel-level instability, drive timeouts, or system hangs were observed during multi-day operation. This level of consistency positions the WTR Max as a capable platform not just for data storage, but also for virtualized desktop hosting, container orchestration, or edge-processing scenarios where performance and uptime are equally critical.

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

The Aoostar WTR Max presents a rare combination of compact form factor, enterprise-aligned specifications, and hardware flexibility that places it apart from both consumer-grade NAS appliances and DIY server builds. With support for eleven total storage devices—including six SATA bays and five Gen 4 NVMe slots—plus ECC memory compatibility and dual 10GbE networking, it delivers a feature set typically reserved for much larger or more expensive systems. Its Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS processor offers sufficient compute power for a wide range of workloads, from virtualization and containerization to media encoding and storage routing. Real-world performance during testing confirmed that the WTR Max could handle multiple simultaneous high-bitrate video transcodes, multi-VM operation, and 10GbE network saturation, all while maintaining consistent thermals and manageable power usage. While internal bandwidth sharing across NVMe slots may limit some inter-disk operations, this did not impact external throughput or sustained application performance.

For users seeking a flexible platform to host their own NAS operating system—whether TrueNAS, Unraid, or Proxmox—the WTR Max provides considerable value, assuming a willingness to configure and manage the software stack independently. It does not include a proprietary OS or vendor-specific ecosystem, which may be a drawback for those expecting turnkey functionality but a strength for users looking to avoid software licensing limitations or drive compatibility locks. The LCD front panel, OCuLink expandability, and support for up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM further extend its potential across use cases that include hybrid desktop/NAS roles, edge compute appliances, or lab environments. While priced above entry-level NAS systems, its performance, thermal behavior, and hardware access align more closely with workstation-class systems. A future comparison with devices like the Minisforum N5 Pro will offer more context, but based on current observations, the Aoostar WTR Max establishes itself as a serious option for self-hosters demanding both storage density and processing headroom.

The Aoostar WTR MAX Nas is available from the following places: Aoostar WTR Max NAS on (Check Amazon) – HERE Aoostar R1 N150 2-Bay NAS $179 – HERE Aoostar R7 4-Bay NAS $419 – HERE Aoostar R7 2-Bay 5825U NAS $399 – HERE Aoostar Oculink 800W ePCIe Docking Station $169 – HERE Aoostar GEN12 Gen4 PC $374 on AliExpress – HERE

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Pros

Aoostar WTR Max NAS Cons

High Storage Density in Compact Form Supports up to 11 drives (6x SATA + 5x NVMe) in a desktop-sized chassis, ideal for users with large-scale storage needs but limited physical space. Enterprise-Class CPU with ECC Support AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS offers 8C/16T performance, ECC memory support, and integrated RDNA 3 graphics—rare at this price and size. Dual 10GbE SFP+ and Dual 2.5GbE Networking Provides flexible, high-throughput networking for content creators, virtual environments, or advanced home labs. Strong Virtualization and Transcoding Performance Smooth Proxmox VM hosting and real-time Plex 4K/8K transcoding using Radeon 780M hardware acceleration. OCuLink PCIe Expansion Port Enables high-speed external storage or GPU support without sacrificing internal NVMe bandwidth. Customizable LCD Monitoring Panel Real-time display of system metrics (CPU, RAM, network, storage) with theme options, useful for headless setups. Robust Cooling System with Vapor Chamber Glacier Pro 1.0 design keeps thermals in check across four fans and distinct airflow zones; low fan noise even under load. Open Software Ecosystem No proprietary OS or restrictions; supports TrueNAS, Unraid, Proxmox, or Linux-based setups for full admin control.

Limited Internal NVMe Cross-Throughput Inter-M.2 transfer speeds are capped (~500–600 MB/s), possibly due to shared chipset lanes or controller design. No Internal PCIe Slot Expansion is limited to OCuLink; users needing traditional PCIe cards (e.g., GPUs or HBAs) may find this restrictive. LCD Panel Software Can Be Problematic Configuration software raised browser security flags and requires static IP client setup, making it less accessible. External Power Brick Only 280W external PSU is functional but not ideal for rackmount or integrated enclosures; some users may prefer internal ATX power.

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45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Case Review

The 45Drives HL8 is an 8-bay desktop NAS chassis developed for users who want professional-grade storage hardware without committing to the rigid ecosystems of traditional NAS vendors. Designed and manufactured in North America, the HL8 is available in several configurations, with this review focusing specifically on the chassis, backplane, and power supply model. This version includes a precision-built steel enclosure, a direct-wired 8-bay SATA backplane, and a 500W 80 Plus Gold-rated Flex ATX power supply. It omits bundled motherboards, CPUs, and pre-installed operating systems, appealing to users who prefer to build or customize their NAS hardware environment while still benefiting from an integrated power and storage foundation. The HL8 aims to bridge the gap between low-cost DIY NAS enclosures, which often suffer from poor thermals and awkward layouts, and locked-down consumer appliances that limit software choices and upgrade potential. With a hinged open-frame design, support for full-height PCIe cards, and internal layout optimized for accessibility and cooling, the HL8 is positioned as a platform for long-term use and adaptability rather than a quick-start solution. While its price point is significantly higher than generic imported chassis, its construction and modular focus suggest it’s intended for serious users seeking more control, not simply more convenience.

Who Are 45Drives?

45Drives is a Canadian storage hardware manufacturer based in Nova Scotia, operating as a division of Protocase, a custom enclosure and prototyping company. The brand has built a reputation among system integrators, IT professionals, and homelab enthusiasts for delivering modular, open-platform storage solutions. Unlike many NAS vendors that focus on vertically integrated ecosystems, 45Drives offers systems built around industry-standard components, designed to be user-serviceable and adaptable. Their catalog includes high-density rackmount systems like the Storinator, hybrid flash-HDD systems such as the Stornado, and more recently, a range of compact desktop NAS chassis under the “HL” or HomeLab label. The HL8, HL4, and HL15 models are part of this effort to scale down enterprise-grade build quality into a form factor more appropriate for deskside or small office deployment.

A core part of 45Drives’ identity is its commitment to open-source principles, not just through hardware compatibility but also in software tooling and education. The company develops and maintains Cockpit-based management modules—such as their ZFS and Samba interfaces—for Linux distributions like Rocky Linux, which they often preinstall with their systems. These modules are freely available on GitHub, and the company encourages users to modify, self-host, or adapt them as needed. In addition to their software work, 45Drives actively engages with the community through regular YouTube content, documentation portals, and technical support that continues even when customers deviate from default hardware or software configurations. This combination of enterprise durability, user empowerment, and open development has earned 45Drives a dedicated following among those who want to retain full control over their infrastructure without sacrificing reliability or support.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Review – External Design

The HL8’s exterior sets it apart from typical consumer NAS enclosures through its bold and unique industrial construction – practically enterprise grade, at a homelab and desktop level. Built from 16-gauge powder-coated steel, the chassis weighs approximately 22 lbs even before drives are installed, conveying a sense of structural rigidity that clearly aligns more with enterprise hardware than with mass-market desktop cases.

The finish is matte and durable, avoiding cheap plastics or decorative panels. Buyers can choose between metal and acrylic front plates, and several color options are available, offering some degree of personalization—something rarely seen at this tier. Branding is subtle, with the HL8 model designation etched into the top panel and a logo plate on the front face.

Unlike most enclosures that rely on removable panels or sliding trays, the HL8 features a hinged “clam shell” design. The entire upper shell lifts open via captive thumb screws, granting immediate access to internal components without needing to remove the drives or disconnect cabling.

This mechanism provides real-time visibility into the system’s interior during operation, making it easier to perform diagnostics, replace fans, or adjust cabling. It’s particularly helpful for users who regularly service or upgrade their systems, and it avoids many of the frustrations associated with cramped or tool-dependent access panels.

The front of the case houses eight hot-swap 3.5” bays in a vertical arrangement, accessible without tools and pre-wired via the internal backplane. These bays are trayless and rely on drive guides for alignment, secured by the structural frame rather than individual plastic sleds. This design allows for rapid drive installation and removal while minimizing potential points of mechanical failure. The front ventilation is cut directly into the steel fascia, and airflow is directed through the drive bays by internal Noctua fans located behind them. There are no visible indicators or LCD panels on the front panel—minimalism is favored over visual clutter.

Around the rear, the layout remains conventional but clean. The rear I/O cutout accommodates standard mini-ITX motherboard layouts, and the single expansion slot supports a full-height PCIe card up to 72mm in height. The integrated Flex ATX power supply sits beside the motherboard area with its own exhaust fan, and ample passive ventilation is provided via additional steel cutouts. While visually understated, the HL8’s outer design prioritizes durability, accessibility, and functional airflow—traits that reflect its enterprise lineage more than its homelab label might suggest.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Review – Internal Case Design

Internally, the HL8 case is engineered for both accessibility and structured airflow, with a layout that avoids many of the compromises found in smaller or mass-produced enclosures. The most notable feature is its fully hinged body, which allows the entire top and side panel assembly to lift upward without removing the drives. This open-access approach separates the drive chamber from the motherboard compartment without creating restrictive airflow barriers. It’s a significant advantage for users who need to inspect, troubleshoot, or upgrade internal components, especially when working with larger cooling units or dense cable configurations.

The motherboard area is positioned on the right side of the chassis, aligned horizontally to the drive plane, which prevents any obstruction by drive trays or cabling. This layout supports standard mini-ITX boards and allows full visibility of memory slots, M.2 sockets, and power headers even with drives installed. The motherboard is flanked by routing space that supports organized cabling, including SATA or power leads. This spacing is particularly useful when working with non-modular PSUs or when routing SATA cables from alternative controllers or add-in cards. The case does not limit users to any specific board vendor or layout beyond the mini-ITX size constraint.

Cabling for the backplane is pre-installed in the PSU model, which simplifies setup considerably. The backplane itself is a direct-wired design supporting up to eight SATA drives without requiring SAS expander cards or proprietary interfaces. This approach ensures compatibility with a wide range of consumer and enterprise SATA drives and avoids the long-term risks of vendor-specific drive bay lock-ins. It also makes replacing or troubleshooting individual cables far easier than in systems using multipath or bundled connectors. Power and data connections are cleanly routed through the side of the case, keeping airflow clear and minimizing vibration interference.

The Flex ATX PSU sits at the rear left and is mounted horizontally, drawing air through its own intake and exhausting separately from the main airflow path. This compact configuration leaves the bulk of the case’s lower chamber available for future expansion or airflow tuning. Additional internal fan mounts and brackets are preinstalled, and 45Drives includes all necessary mounting screws and documentation—even down to port-specific manuals for the pre-installed PSU. The internal design of the HL8 shows clear thought toward ease of maintenance and modularity, reflecting an expectation that users will revisit and modify their system over time rather than treat it as a sealed appliance.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Review – Noise and Cooling

The HL8’s cooling design reflects a balance between thermal efficiency and acoustic performance, especially in its PSU-included configuration. By default, this model ships with multiple Noctua fans—specifically, two NF-A12x15 fans for intake and one NF-A4x10 for exhaust—which are widely regarded for their low noise output and long-term reliability.

Combined with the direct airflow path created by the open drive cage layout, the HL8 maintains effective cooling of both hard drives and system components without requiring high-RPM, high-noise fan profiles. Even under load, thermal tests show the drive temperatures hovering around 50°C in a 20°C ambient environment—well within safe operating margins for mechanical disks.

In real-world usage, the system produces around 33–34 dBA at idle and 42 dBA under full fan load during tasks such as ZFS pool creation or sustained disk activity. These levels are consistent with what you would expect from a quiet desktop PC and are significantly lower than typical rackmount systems or budget enclosures using unbranded high-speed fans.

The use of steel panels throughout the chassis also contributes to noise dampening, reducing vibration resonance from spinning drives. Overall, the HL8’s thermal and acoustic profile is well-suited for deployment in office or home environments where audible noise is a concern, without sacrificing long-term cooling performance.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay Case vs the Jonsbo N3 Case

The 45Drives HL8 and the Jonsbo N3 both offer 8-bay NAS enclosures for mini-ITX builds, but they cater to very different tiers of the DIY NAS market. The HL8 is positioned as a premium, enterprise-grade enclosure built entirely from 16-gauge steel and manufactured in Canada. It includes a fully integrated backplane, Noctua fans, and a Flex ATX PSU—features aimed at maximizing serviceability, thermal control, and long-term reliability.

Priced at roughly $880 USD for the chassis, backplane, and PSU combo, it targets users who demand industrial standards in a desktop form factor. The Jonsbo N3, in contrast, is a Chinese-manufactured enclosure constructed from 2.0mm aluminium alloy with 1.0mm steel internals.

It focuses on maximizing functionality in a compact and aesthetically refined format, with average retail pricing ranging between $150–$170 USD, though occasional sales and unpredictable shipping costs on platforms like AliExpress can make pricing volatile.

In terms of hardware layout and user experience, the HL8 emphasizes modularity and ease of access. Its unique “flower-style” hinged chassis allows for complete servicing of drives, motherboard, cabling, and PSU without disassembly. The built-in backplane supports both SATA and SAS, reducing the need for messy cabling or additional HBA cards unless required for scale-out. Meanwhile, the Jonsbo N3 offers a two-chamber design separating drives and the motherboard/PSU area, supporting 8 hot-swap drives via an included SATA-only backplane. However, the power delivery system relies on two Molex and one SATA connector—an odd combination that may require more planning for power distribution. The N3 also employs a PSU passthrough cable from the back to a front-mounted internal SFX PSU, saving space but potentially restricting airflow and complicating installation. Unlike the HL8’s enterprise cable routing, the N3 requires tight cable management due to its smaller internal volume, and is more prone to cable congestion near the motherboard tray.

Where the HL8 wins in build quality and professional usability, the N3 counters with surprising features at its price point. The N3 includes dual rear fans, 8 LED indicators for drive activity, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C front I/O, and support for large PCIe GPUs or network cards up to 250mm. However, it uses rubber grommet-mounted drive holders instead of trays—a cost-saving measure that may reduce vibration but introduces concerns about long-term durability and ease of drive removal. It also lacks tool-less panels for the main lid, requiring an Allen key for access, which, while flush and neat, isn’t practical for regular service. By comparison, the HL8 is fully toolless throughout. Ultimately, the HL8 is ideal for users who prioritize low-maintenance reliability and modular enterprise design in a desktop form, while the N3 offers excellent value for cost-conscious DIY builders willing to trade some serviceability and airflow flexibility for size, aesthetics, and affordability.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Review – The Pre-Built AMD Model

In addition to offering the HL8 as a chassis with backplane and power supply, 45Drives also sells a fully assembled, tested, and burn-in validated configuration for users who prefer a turnkey deployment. The current prebuilt model typically includes a Gigabyte B550I AORUS Pro AX mini-ITX motherboard, paired with either an AMD Ryzen 5 5500GT (6-core, 12-thread) or Ryzen 7 5700G (8-core, 16-thread) processor. These CPUs offer solid single- and multi-threaded performance, integrated graphics for transcoding or light GUI workloads, and efficient power profiles.

The build also comes with up to 64GB of DDR4 UDIMM memory, a 1TB NVMe SSD (typically Gen 4), Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 low-profile CPU cooler, and factory-installed Noctua case fans. All internal wiring is professionally routed, and the system arrives with Rocky Linux and the Houston UI preinstalled for immediate setup.

At the time of writing, the total cost of the prebuilt HL8 with the Ryzen 5700G configuration is $1,538 USD. In contrast, a self-built system using comparable off-the-shelf components can be assembled for approximately $875–$900. A rough cost breakdown would be: Ryzen 7 5700G and B550I motherboard combo ($260), 64GB DDR4 UDIMM ($103), 1TB NVMe SSD ($60), 500W Flex ATX Gold PSU ($90), Noctua CPU and case fans ($75), plus an equivalent MITX 8-bay chassis with SATA backplane ($159–$180). While this approach offers clear cost savings, it comes with multiple delivery sources, fragmented warranties, and no factory testing—factors that may be important to users prioritizing reliability and vendor accountability over price.

The prebuilt model is best suited to users who want predictable performance, reduced setup time, and consolidated post-sale support. It removes the need for component sourcing, physical assembly, and initial troubleshooting. However, it also imposes some limitations, such as the use of a single 2.5GbE network port and lack of configuration flexibility. Users requiring more advanced networking or GPU options will need to expand via the PCIe slot manually. Overall, the prebuilt HL8 fills a niche for those who want an enterprise-adjacent storage server without the learning curve or integration work required by a ground-up build, but it may be over-specified or overpriced for more self-sufficient users.

The 45Drives Houseton UI Software – Any Good?

The Houston UI platform from 45Drives is built on top of the open-source Cockpit Project, designed to offer users a web-based server management interface with a lightweight footprint.

Its browser-based GUI makes it accessible from any device on the network, and it supports multiple Linux distributions, including Rocky Linux, which is often used as the default OS with Houston UI.

One of the primary strengths of Houston UI is its ZFS management interface. Users can easily create, modify, and monitor ZFS storage pools without needing to interact directly with the command line.

The system allows for selection of RAID types (RAIDZ1, Z2, etc.), VDEV expansion, record size configuration, deduplication, encryption, and adjustable compression — all accessible within a guided, GUI-based setup.

System monitoring is a central feature of Houston UI, with a real-time dashboard showing CPU, memory, network throughput, and active services. It includes disk status indicators, smart monitoring tools, and hardware detail pages.

Some of which include visual layouts depending on motherboard detection. While the graphical presentation is basic compared to Synology DSM, it does provide sufficient system insight for regular administration.

Houston UI also includes a modular service control center, where administrators can enable or disable a wide range of server services such as Samba (SMB), NFS, SSH, and rsync.

Each module is toggleable, and users can configure individual services with editable configuration files directly from the browser. This brings flexibility, while still maintaining visual accessibility for basic tasks.

The task scheduler in Houston UI provides an easy way to set up automated jobs — including backups, updates, power cycling, and network interface toggling.

Unlike many systems that hide these functions under multiple wizards, Houston offers a unified “Tasks” area for managing all routine automations, including custom scripts and cron-based tasks.

A standout feature is the cloud synchronization and backup module, which offers connectivity to cloud platforms such as Amazon S3 and Backblaze B2, as well as support for local-to-remote rsync and FTP targets. It allows users to control bandwidth, frequency, and folder mappings from a single-pane interface — something that’s typically fragmented in competing platforms.

For users running virtual machines, Houston UI includes a KVM-based virtualization manager. This allows the creation and monitoring of guest VMs directly through the browser, including storage provisioning, image selection, CPU/memory configuration, and console access. While not as feature-rich as Proxmox, it’s suitable for lightweight VM workloads and container testing.

Finally, Houston supports module extensions, with 45Drives publishing their own file sharing and ZFS modules via GitHub. These can be installed on any compatible Linux system running Cockpit. This open approach allows users to build their own UI extensions or pull from the community, avoiding platform lock-in and enabling customization well beyond the factory defaults.

45Drives HL8 8-Bay MITX NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The 45Drives HL8, when configured as a chassis with backplane and PSU, represents a refined and deliberate approach to small-form NAS deployment. Priced around $880 USD, this configuration sits well above entry-level alternatives, but the investment is clearly reflected in its enterprise-grade construction, serviceable layout, and attention to detail. With a robust 16-gauge steel chassis, direct-wired SATA backplane, and a high-efficiency 500W Flex ATX PSU pre-installed, it offers an ideal base for users who plan to build a serious and scalable NAS solution without locking themselves into restrictive ecosystems.

The hinged body design, tool-free drive access, and Noctua fan integration show a strong understanding of real-world usability, especially for those who perform ongoing maintenance, upgrades, or hardware experimentation. In that sense, it’s less a typical “consumer NAS case” and more a modular platform intended for long-term infrastructure use in homelab and small business environments.

That said, this is not a universal fit for all users. The HL8’s exclusive support for mini-ITX motherboards imposes limitations on connectivity and expansion, especially for those needing multiple PCIe lanes or additional SATA ports without relying on adapters. And while the internal layout is clearly optimized, buyers still need to be comfortable sourcing and configuring their own motherboard, CPU, memory, and storage—something that could be daunting for beginners or those seeking simplicity over flexibility. In markets where similar 8-bay enclosures from lesser-known brands can be found for half the price, the HL8’s value lies more in its physical build quality, localized production, and long-term viability rather than raw cost efficiency. Users comparing it to entry-tier rackmount gear or compact server cases will need to weigh whether the HL8’s refinement and modularity justify the premium.

Ultimately, the HL8 is a product with a clearly defined audience: self-hosters, IT professionals, and technical users who understand the value of vendor-agnostic hardware and want to retain full control over their system’s lifecycle. It offers a rare middle ground between low-cost DIY setups that require piecemeal integration and fully locked turnkey NAS systems from mainstream brands. For those who are willing to invest not only financially but also in the time and knowledge needed to assemble and manage their NAS environment, the HL8 stands out as one of the most thoughtfully engineered and supportable 8-bay NAS chassis currently on the market.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – Get It Right, FIRST TIME!

When Synology releases a new NAS in its “Plus” lineup, users often expect a blend of practical improvements, long-term support, and a reasonable upgrade path from the previous generation. The Synology DS1825+ arrives in 2025 as the official successor to the 2020/2021-released DS1821+, carrying over much of the same core design while introducing selective enhancements—and a few contentious changes. Both are 8-bay desktop NAS systems targeted at advanced home users, small businesses, and content creators who need multi-user access, flexible RAID configurations, and extensive app support. However, while the DS1821+ was praised for its broad compatibility and modular connectivity, the DS1825+ adopts a more tightly controlled hardware ecosystem. In this comparison, we break down the key differences across hardware, ports, storage capabilities, DSM software features, and drive compatibility so you can decide which model truly fits your long-term needs—without second-guessing your choice later.

Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – Internal Hardware

At the center of both the Synology DS1821+ and DS1825+ is the AMD Ryzen V1500B processor, a 4-core, 8-thread embedded SoC with a 64-bit architecture and a base frequency of 2.2 GHz. This chip, built on the Zen architecture, offers a balance of power efficiency and multi-threaded performance suited for environments with simultaneous multi-user file access, virtual machines, and complex RAID configurations. Synology’s decision to retain the same processor in the DS1825+ reflects confidence in its reliability and capability. However, for users hoping for a jump to Zen 2 or Zen 3-based hardware, the lack of a CPU upgrade could be a disappointment—especially considering that competing vendors have started adopting newer architectures for their mid-range systems. Still, for typical NAS tasks that do not involve on-the-fly 4K video transcoding or GPU-heavy operations, the V1500B remains a stable and effective platform with AES-NI encryption support and virtualization compatibility across VMware, Hyper-V, and Docker workloads.

Thermal and power characteristics between the two systems remain largely consistent, with both featuring dual 120mm fans and an internal 250W PSU that can handle full drive loads with expansion units attached. The DS1821+ and DS1825+ are also nearly identical in physical size and structure, though the newer model has a slightly higher idle noise level—23.8 dB(A) versus 22.2 dB(A)—due to denser internal configuration and possibly fan speed curve adjustments. From an operational standpoint, the DS1825+ is marginally more power-efficient in idle states, consuming just 18.34W during HDD hibernation compared to 26.18W in the DS1821+. These marginal differences suggest a refinement in system tuning, although not a radical redesign. Overall, while the DS1825+ doesn’t revolutionize internal hardware, its doubled memory and subtle optimizations give it the edge for users planning to push DSM with multiple services or those who prefer an upgrade-free deployment experience.

Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – Ports and Connections

One of the most tangible areas of differentiation between the DS1821+ and DS1825+ lies in their external connectivity. The older DS1821+ is equipped with four 1GbE RJ-45 LAN ports, a familiar configuration that supports link aggregation and network redundancy. This setup was common in Synology’s mid-range lineup during its 2020–2022 releases, offering a total aggregated bandwidth of up to 4Gbps—assuming your switch infrastructure supports it. For many small business users, this array of ports provided simple flexibility: you could dedicate individual ports for different services or bond them for faster file transfers. However, in practice, 1GbE is increasingly becoming a limiting factor for modern workloads, especially in environments with large raw video files, database access, or multiple users performing high-speed backups.

Beyond networking, the DS1825+ introduces a notable change in expansion port design. The DS1821+ includes two eSATA ports for attaching Synology DX517 expansion units, which align with legacy expansion practices. In contrast, the DS1825+ replaces these with two USB-C-based expansion ports, designed specifically for use with the newer DX525 expansion units. While this doesn’t directly affect day-to-day operations, it signals a move toward a USB-based proprietary interface for future expansion, likely with more streamlined cabling and higher throughput potential. Additionally, the DS1825+ trims down from four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports to three, a minor trade-off that may impact users with multiple USB-connected devices such as UPS units or backup drives. Still, for most users, the improved network and expansion standards make the DS1825+ more forward-looking, even if it reduces legacy connectivity options found on the DS1821+.

Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – Storage

Both the DS1821+ and DS1825+ offer eight front-facing SATA drive bays, supporting 3.5″ HDDs and 2.5″ SSDs, with hot-swappable trays for easy maintenance and upgrades. On the surface, storage capacity and configuration appear nearly identical: both models can scale up to 18 total drives using two Synology expansion units and support RAID levels including SHR, RAID 5, 6, and 10. This makes either system a viable choice for users with large datasets, whether for media, surveillance, or business-critical file hosting. However, subtle distinctions in how storage can be configured and expanded in each model make a significant difference over time.

This tightening of compatibility extends into pool expansion, RAID rebuilds, and even hot spare assignments. In the DS1821+, users could freely mix third-party drives and expand pools over time using available or similarly specced HDDs—even those not on the official compatibility list. The DS1825+ takes a stricter approach: attempts to initialize DSM with unverified HDDs will fail, and pool expansion or RAID recovery with unsupported drives is outright blocked. While existing volumes from older NAS systems can still be migrated and booted, they will trigger persistent compatibility warnings in DSM, often with degraded system health indicators. This shift may offer Synology more control over performance validation and support consistency, but it limits flexibility for users relying on diverse or existing storage media—making the DS1821+ a better option for those with a mix-and-match approach, and the DS1825+ more suitable for fully standardized Synology deployments.

Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – DSM Capabilities

Both the DS1821+ and DS1825+ are powered by Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.2 operating system, offering access to a rich suite of applications for file management, backup, surveillance, virtualization, and cloud syncing. Core tools such as Synology Drive and Synology Photos provide a private cloud alternative to services like Google Drive or Dropbox, while packages like Hyper Backup and Active Backup for Business enable full-system and client-based data protection strategies. These services run similarly on both systems, but hardware differences can influence practical performance. For example, the DS1825+ ships with 8 GB of ECC memory by default, making it more responsive when running multiple DSM apps in parallel—such as Snapshot Replication combined with Virtual Machine Manager and Drive Client Sync. In contrast, the DS1821+ ships with 4 GB of memory, which may require an upgrade before achieving similar multitasking fluidity, especially in environments with more than a few simultaneous users.

Service limits within DSM also subtly differentiate the two models. The DS1821+ is rated for up to 110 concurrent users in Synology Drive and Office, whereas the DS1825+ recommends a slightly lower threshold of 100 users. While the difference is marginal, it may reflect the DS1825+’s tighter memory tuning or more restrictive compatibility model, which now relies on verified Synology storage media for optimal performance. For example, in environments running Synology Office with real-time collaborative editing—paired with Drive, MailPlus, and external file sharing through WebDAV—the DS1821+ might offer more flexibility when loaded with third-party high-performance SSDs for caching. The DS1825+, restricted to Synology’s own SNV3400/3410 NVMe drives, demands tighter ecosystem compliance, which could affect responsiveness if storage performance becomes a bottleneck. Nonetheless, both models offer full support for advanced DSM modules like Synology High Availability, SAN Manager, and Hybrid Share, ensuring that users deploying in mission-critical environments still have access to the high-availability and hybrid cloud features that define Synology’s enterprise-ready platform.

Although DSM 7.2 offers the same interface and core functionality across both the DS1821+ and DS1825+, the user experience diverges notably during storage migration, particularly when using older or unverified hard drives. Users migrating existing volumes from earlier Synology systems—such as the DS918+, DS1819+, or DS920+—will find that the DS1821+ accepts those drives with minimal friction. DSM will boot normally, recognize the existing array, and issue only minor warnings in Storage Manager regarding drive verification, which are generally dismissible and do not affect functionality. RAID recovery, pool expansion, and the addition of hot spare drives all remain fully accessible, even when using third-party or previously unsupported drives. In contrast, the DS1825+ enforces stricter hardware validation: while it will mount migrated volumes, the system interface becomes saturated with persistent warning banners, amber and red health statuses, and limited drive information if the drives are not officially verified. These warnings cannot be dismissed, and attempts to rebuild RAID, add new drives to existing pools, or assign hot spares using unverified media will be blocked entirely. As a result, while both systems technically support migration, the DS1821+ offers a far more tolerant and practical transition path for users with legacy or mixed-brand storage configuration.

Synology DS1825+ vs DS1821+ NAS Comparison – Conclusion

Choosing between the Synology DS1825+ and DS1821+ comes down to whether you prioritize modern hardware refinements or broader long-term flexibility. The DS1825+ introduces subtle but meaningful upgrades: faster 2.5GbE connectivity, double the base memory, and NVMe storage pool support—features that clearly position it as the more forward-thinking choice for users committed to staying within the Synology ecosystem. However, these improvements come with tighter restrictions, most notably in its rigid drive compatibility policy. DSM cannot be installed unless only Synology-verified drives are used, and the system actively blocks unverified drives from being used in storage pools, RAID rebuilds, or even hot spare configurations. In contrast, the DS1821+ offers more freedom—supporting a wider range of HDDs and SSDs, allowing RAID recovery and expansion with non-Synology drives, and presenting a cleaner, less obstructive DSM experience when migrating from older hardware. While it may lack the newer model’s out-of-the-box performance gains, its open-ended architecture gives users—especially those with legacy drives or mixed environments—more breathing room. For users building a NAS from scratch and willing to adopt Synology’s closed hardware ecosystem, the DS1825+ is a capable and streamlined solution. But for those looking to extend the life of existing hardware or retain control over their storage media choices, the DS1821+ remains the more versatile and user-friendly option.

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If Not Synology? Which Other NAS Brand Should You Choose?

It’s an odd question, but with Synology arguably making some rather higher business and enterprise decisions in recent years, there have been increasing queries about who would fill the void if they moved onwards and upwards. As Synology holds such a powerful position in the NAS market, their absence would certainly lead to quite the battle of strength from other players. The obvious answer would be QNAP, a brand that has a similar history to Synology (over two decades in the business, Taiwan-based, in-house OS, numerous 1st-party tools, home and business solutions, etc.), but in 2025, the reality is nowhere near as clear-cut. Younger established brands that have jockeyed for 3rd position, such as Asustor and Terramaster, have been challenged by several startups (ZimaCube and Zimaboard 2, Orico’s Cyberdata Vault, to name just two) entering the fray, as well as established brands like UGREEN, which are expanding their business into the NAS sector. If Synology, for whatever reason, ceased to occupy this important user class of private turnkey server ownership, who would be best placed to occupy it?

How, Where and Why Has Synology Changed?

Synology’s rapid change in business stance to be more enterprise/hyperscale-focused comes at the same time as their frequency of more entry-level, small business, prosumer, and enthusiast solutions has dropped. The regularity of smaller 2-Bay and 4-Bay solutions has noticeably decreased, and the hardware they feature has changed to accommodate more business-type use. This by no means suggests that the brand is making moves to exit these user groups (indeed, support of DSM and the latest revision DSM 7.2.2 extends to all existing users up to many systems released in the late 2010s). However, there has been plenty of user outcry from existing users and potential customers on the architecture of both DSM and the recent releases that exacerbate users to move away from the brand and spend their allocated budgets elsewhere. Synology still comfortably sits ahead of its competitors in terms of software, features, and the UX of their platform, but many changes in policy and support mentioned below have started this trend:

• Changes in 3rd-party HDD compatibility on systems above the 8-Bay scale, prioritizing their own 1st-party labeled HDDs and SSDs, as well as reducing the presentation and compatibility listings on their site significantly.
• Changes in the choice of internal hardware featured in their systems to be more focused on business file processes and less on multimedia use.
• Comparatively smaller increases in base hardware between refreshes of individual series (e.g., J4125 and V1500B CPUs in 2024 launch devices, despite first appearing in 2019/2020).
• Considerable increased focus on software enhancements over hardware (not a bad thing, but an undeniable fact).
• Increased proprietary hardware support over 3rd-party (e.g., Synology-only Memory modules, custom 10GbE adapters like the E10G22-T1, Synology-only M.2 SSDs for Pool Use).
• An increasing number of cloud subscription services getting newer features, while local services remain secure and stable but static.
• New product focus shifting towards newer larger-scale solutions like the evolving GridStation series, Active Protect subscription system, and C2 innovations.
• The predicted elimination of the J entry-level series in favor of the pre-populated and software-streamlined BeeStation.

All of the above are small factors in themselves, but add them all up, and you see small but important stepping stones toward a gear shift in Synology’s target demographic. So, if Synology were to intentionally or inadvertently begin to move outside of these user groups of home, small business, and enthusiast, who stands to fill this space and grow?

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QNAP vs Synology?

As mentioned earlier, QNAP stands to be the most likely contender to fill this space. With over 20 years of history, a larger range of hardware solutions than Synology, and software that does pretty much everything Synology’s does, they have been consistent competitors. However, inconsistencies in user experience, conflicting UIs, and a tendency to try to do “too much” have resulted in their losing ground to Synology in terms of software. Add to this the negative brand impact of security incidents in 2020-2022, which tarnished their reputation around security and safety, requiring serious improvement. To the brand’s credit, they have made considerable internal culture changes on this subject, adding bounty programs, tightening system defaults, increasing pen testing, introducing several system security scanning tools, disabling things like SSH and admin super user accounts as standard, and more.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
TS-233 2-Bay NAS	TS-464 4-Bay NAS	TVS-h874 8-Bay NAS
$189 on Amazon (Check Here)	$549 on Amazon (Check Here)	$2499 on Amazon (Check Here)

In terms of hardware, they have mostly stuck to what works, refreshing existing product families at the same rate of 2.5-3 years for desktop small-medium scale, and 3-5 years for larger scale. They have also introduced significantly more recent CPUs from both Intel and AMD, as well as 2.5GbE as standard on their solutions at the same price point as 1GbE. If it weren’t for the damaging brand harm caused by the Deadbolt/QSnatch/Qlocker ransomware attacks, I think Synology would have been significantly challenged by QNAP in the last 2-3 years across all fronts. However, the setback to QNAP’s reputation reduced this growth potential significantly, and in the last two years, we have seen an increasing number of new names pop up in NAS that have also harmed QNAP’s appeal to users in terms of hardware value, the thing they could always be relied upon to beat Synology on. QNAP would still stand to become the ‘top dog’ in the event of a Synology exit (Synexit?) from the low-to-medium tiers of NAS storage, but many new players have entered the field, such as…

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UGREEN vs QNAP?

Largely known for their power adapters and PC accessories, a year ago UGREEN had practically no real presence in the world of NAS. They had a smaller scale and more entry-level range of solutions that were limited to the East, but aside from that, they were complete outsiders. Fast forward to now, and following a successful and well-marketed Kickstarter campaign that raised millions of dollars, they are now a provider of genuinely impressive turnkey NAS solutions—the NASync series. The key word there is “turnkey”, as in they are providing both the hardware and the software. They could have just rolled out their hardware and made it OS-free (i.e., “Here’s a ready-built server, now go install UnRAID or TrueNAS”), but instead, they opted to produce and include an impressively responsive NAS OS in UGOS. Genuinely challenging the feature set of the likes of Asustor and Terramaster, as well as the design of Synology and the hardware level of QNAP, UGREEN has made a rapidly growing name for itself in the small-to-medium NAS sector.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
DXP2800 2-Bay NAS	DXP4800 PLUS 4-Bay NAS	DXP8800 PLUS 8-Bay NAS
$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$699 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

They definitely lack the range of solutions that those other brands offer, with only 6 solutions currently available (the DXP2800, DXP4800/PLUS, DXP6680, DXP8800, and DXP480T), and no rackmount solutions yet, but it’s a solid start. Equally, their software, although fluid and responsive in nailing down the NAS fundamentals, lacks many of the more impressive AAA+ solutions that are offered by the bigger brands. Lastly, although they raised a considerable sum during the crowdfunding, they do not have the global support, offices, or availability of their long-running NAS competitors—with solutions only being available in two regions, the US and Germany. All of these factors add up to a brand that is poised to make even bigger splashes in the years to come but is perhaps not quite ready to replace the big dog, Synology, just yet!

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ASUSTOR vs Synology?

Always the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Asustor is a brand that has been around in the world of NAS in one shape or form for quite a few years. They are one of the mainstream Taiwanese brands in NAS that has always ‘been there’, but it is only in the last 4-5 years that they have been making sizable moves to take on both Synology and QNAP. One of the main ways in which they pursued this is by developing numerous features in both hardware and software that are available from their competitors individually. So features such as M.2 NVMe-focused storage systems, BTRFS support, WORM locking, 2.5GbE/5GbE support, HDMI output via a dedicated GUI, and more are features available on Synology and QNAP to some extent, but only Asustor rolls them under one brand umbrella. So, how poised are they to fill a void if Synology moved out of this space?

Well, from a hardware standpoint, Asustor is in a very good position. Them being Taiwan-based will certainly soothe concerns that have grown around Chinese companies and data storage solutions. Equally, their hardware has evolved rapidly in their last two generations to feature some genuinely unique solutions that are either specific to the platform or priced at a level that makes them genuinely competitive against DIY and BYO solutions. Systems such as the Flashstor series, Lockerstor series, and even value offerings like the Drivestor are surprisingly well equipped. They are not quite on the same level of hardware as QNAP (who have a significantly more diverse hardware portfolio), but they are fleshing it out very well.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
Nimbustor Gen 2 2-Bay NAS	Flashstor Gen 1 12-Bay NAS	Lockerstor Gen 3 8/10-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$449-749 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1999 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, it is the software of Asustor (ADM) that is unfortunately where the brand is a little more timid. They have a NAS OS, numerous client tools for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android—and they nail down the bulk of the application fundamentals for storage management, multi-site backup handling, multimedia playback, containers, and more. But the platform lacks a few of the more AAA/desirable services, such as AI-powered photo recognition, a 1st-party VM tool, ZFS support, and ultimately is a little more reliant on 3rd-party applications to fill the gaps. They have recently countered this by officially detailing that they support users who buy Asustor hardware to go ahead and install 3rd-party NAS software like TrueNAS or UnRAID without it harming your warranty—so they know they are not leading the pack in terms of their own ADM NAS software but do make noticeable user concessions. With new hardware on the horizon in the Lockerstor Gen3 and Flashstor Gen2 (both of which see a significant bump in hardware profiles), we might see some impressive moves from Asustor in 2025. I just think they still have some ways to go before they can fill any potential void that Synology might leave.

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TERRAMASTER vs Synology?

Terramaster has been jockeying for the NAS 3rd place spot with Asustor for well over a decade at this point, and much like their opponent, they have been good at integrating individual features from both QNAP and Synology into their own NAS hardware and TOS platform, but to a larger degree than Asustor. For example, their OS provides largely everything that Asustor ADM does (including TrueNAS/UnRAID support without voiding your warranty) but adds to this with an AI photo recognition platform, their own VM tool, and an impressive Isolation Mode that can sever the system at the click of a button from remote access, 3rd-party PHP, and any external requests (necessitating a restart to disable). However, as this brand is a Chinese brand, there will always be question marks raised by users about how this system compares with Taiwanese-based systems. This is a little unfair, given that Terramaster, Asustor, and QNAP were all successfully hit by the same ransomware attack (Deadbolt) a few years back, so there was plenty of ‘vulnerability’ to spread around!

In terms of hardware, Terramaster has been making some impressive and aggressive strides in this area—with the recent launch of their 3-part F4-424 Intel NAS series (Standard, Pro, and MAX), the release of two 8-bay M.2 NVMe 10GbE equipped systems (the F8 PLUS and F8 SSD PLUS), and new desktop and rackmounts hot on their heels. They have also scaled up the design to better improve cooling, efficiency, and just general visual appeal.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
F2-424 2-Bay NAS	F4-424 Max 4-Bay NAS	T9-500 Pro 9-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$819 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, much like Asustor, their software is just not able to challenge the standard that Synology has set. For buyers looking for smooth and easy utilization like Synology, Terramaster’s TOS has the danger of feeling a little clunky. Their latest release, TOS6, brings new features, software standards, and design to the mix, but it lacks the range of mobile applications, desktop client tools, and consistent UX/presentation that Synology seems to do so well. Terramaster is a fantastic value-for-money choice, and I would argue they have significantly scaled up the level of hardware and software utility they provide year on year. But they still have a way to go before they can hit the same notes as Synology DSM yet.

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WD / Netgear vs Synology?

This is a pretty short one! The answer is no! Both WD and Netgear have regularly reduced their hardware ranges and the frequency of software updates these last few years, and although there are a decent range of business file server systems still being released, the general home/enthusiast/prosumer level of hardware is pretty poor and uninteresting compared to everyone else on this list so far. I cannot help but get the feeling that, aside from some basic backup NAS systems that are still listed at the majority of retailers, the bulk of their range has been in circulation for 5-6 years now without any refresh in sight. For basic target file/folder storage, these systems still provide some limited modern NAS utility, but overall, they are a fairly weak alternative to Synology’s offerings in 2025.

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A UniFi NAS?

With increased mentions and leaks online towards a potential NAS in the works from UniFi, this could be a very credible alternative to Synology in terms of software UX and presentation. UniFi, and its incredibly user-friendly UX featured on their Switch, Router, NVR, and Dream Machine combination systems, is where UniFi shines. No doubt any UniFi NAS solution would need to similarly blend into their ecosystem to the same degree. That said, if they were to launch a system, all their experience in the fields of network management, router security, and surveillance systems might not necessarily translate into a similar pedigree in network-attached storage. It’s hard to discuss how or if UniFi could fill any market space that a potential Synology absence would create, as they do not have any systems out in the market to make an informed decision. This is for the “To Be Continued…” pile!

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Drobo vs Synology?

No…just…no. See Video Below:

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IceWhale / ZimaCube

This is a very interesting one. 2023 and 2024 saw several companies arrive in the turnkey NAS space via the crowdfunding route (we already discussed UGREEN as the biggest example), wanting to break into the market. However, IceWhale benefits from having already launched two previous successfully fulfilled campaigns and is just completing their third one with the ZimaCube NAS system. Arriving with the lightweight containerized platform Zima OS (a modified version of their existing Casa OS), this new series is pretty impressive for its scale and price point at launch. Add to that the significantly unique design, impressive use of 10GbE and Thunderbolt over IP, and a 6x HDD / 4x NVMe system in a compact case, and you can see why they have made a fairly significant splash for a brand that is comparatively unheard of compared to Synology, QNAP, etc.

However, as robust as their range of solutions is (ZimaBoard, ZimaBlade, and ZimaCube), the software is still very rudimentary compared to the bulk of other browser GUI and more “operating system”-stylized UX. There are virtually no client applications, except for their own system search and connection client tools. An eventual successor to Synology, if they moved upwards toward bigger and more business-oriented solutions, would need to hit the software functionality and user experience exceedingly early and exceedingly well.

Mini PC Brands – Lincplus, Aoostar, etc.

This is an odd one. There have been a large number of solutions appearing on sites such as AliExpress that arrive as “OS-Free” services, allowing a user to get a pre-built NAS hardware solution (i.e., no need to build one yourself, which takes longer and requires a degree of technical understanding). The end user can then choose to install popular and well-established solutions like TrueNAS, UnRAID, OpenMediaVault, and more.

Value Option	Best All Rounder	SSD Focused NAS
Aoostar WTR Pro 4-Bay NAS	Minsiforum MS-01 3/6-Bay NAS	Lincplus Lincstation N1 6-Bay NAS
$399-799 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)

This serves as an impressively economical solution and has significantly grown in popularity in 2023/2024, but these 3rd-party software platforms lack a lot of the ease of use and quality of life client tools for modern devices that Synology features. Indeed, despite efforts like UnRAID 7 making its day-to-day use much easier, and TrueNAS working with HexOS for a more user-friendly output, these still pale in comparison to DSM and will also require a greater degree of technical user input in the long term to maintain stability, versus Synology’s rather more “it takes care of itself” design.

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Synology vs EVERYONE ELSE – Conclusion and Verdict

If Synology were to leave the home/enthusiast/prosumer/small business tier very soon, I do think QNAP would stand to reoccupy this ground. However, give it 2-3 years, and I do think players like Terramaster, Asustor, and yes—even UGREEN—are poised to give QNAP some serious consumer competition. No doubt Synology is still keeping an eye on their competition (big and small) and would not willingly or easily give up this sector without a fight. However, there is no denying that the turnkey NAS industry is no longer the 2-3 horse race it was just five years ago!

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Synology VS Terramaster NAS Drives in 2025 – Which One Deserves Your Data?

Synology and TerraMaster are two well-established brands in the network-attached storage (NAS) industry, each targeting a range of users from home enthusiasts to small and medium-sized businesses. Synology, a Taiwanese company with over two decades in the field, is widely recognized for its DSM (DiskStation Manager) software, which emphasizes stability, security, and integration within a tightly controlled ecosystem. TerraMaster, while newer to the market, has steadily gained ground by offering hardware-focused, cost-effective solutions with increasing software support via its TOS (TerraMaster Operating System) platform.

I want to provide a side-by-side comparison between Synology and TerraMaster as they stand in 2025, focusing on the real-world differences in hardware, storage, software, and security. The goal is to outline the practical strengths and weaknesses of each brand without leaning heavily toward subjective preferences or historical bias. This is especially relevant for users reevaluating Synology due to recent policy shifts, or for those considering TerraMaster as a flexible and affordable alternative.

 TerraMaster’s TOS (TerraMaster Operating System), currently in version 5.1 with version 6 available on select systems, has seen rapid growth in capabilities and usability over the last few years. While it doesn’t yet match DSM’s polish, it has made significant strides in offering equivalent functionality. TOS supports Btrfs-based snapshots, Rsync and CloudSync for cloud backup, Docker container deployment, and VirtualBox-based virtualization. While the latter is less tightly integrated than Synology’s VMM, it does allow for third-party VM deployment in a usable way.

TerraMaster has also developed TerraSync, a synchronization tool designed to rival Synology Drive, and supports both media management and AI-enhanced photo sorting with apps like Terra Photos. However, many of TOS’s functions rely more heavily on community-driven or open-source third-party applications, resulting in a slightly less unified experience overall.

In terms of application ecosystems, Synology’s App Center clearly offers the broader and deeper catalog, particularly for business users. First-party applications such as Synology Office, Chat, MailPlus, and Note Station deliver a productivity-focused alternative to cloud services, and their Surveillance Station software stands out as one of the most powerful NVR platforms in the NAS market.

TerraMaster’s App Center includes essential tools but lacks the same level of first-party development. However, it makes up for this in openness: TerraMaster supports a wide array of third-party and open-source platforms more freely, including Jellyfin and Unraid. Moreover, TerraMaster allows alternative operating systems like TrueNAS to be installed without voiding the warranty, which adds considerable flexibility for tech-savvy users. Overall, Synology delivers a more unified and polished software experience, while TerraMaster emphasizes adaptability, freedom, and cost

Synology vs Terramaster NAS – Security and Safety

Synology has long maintained a strong reputation in the NAS sector for prioritizing system security, and this is evident in how thoroughly security is integrated throughout DSM. Synology’s Security Advisor provides active scanning for vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and password weaknesses, while its firewall, account protection, and IP auto-blocking features offer practical layers of defense against unauthorized access. Synology also supports comprehensive SSL certificate management via Let’s Encrypt and offers two-factor authentication (2FA) with TOTP and hardware key support. From a business continuity perspective, DSM includes native WORM (Write Once Read Many) capabilities and encrypted shared folders to protect sensitive data from tampering or deletion. Perhaps most critically, Synology operates a dedicated PSIRT (Product Security Incident Response Team), frequently publishes security advisories, and participates in high-profile vulnerability testing events like Pwn2Own—demonstrating a serious commitment to vulnerability discovery and remediation.

TerraMaster’s security offering has become more robust over recent years, particularly with the development of Isolation Mode—a unique feature allowing users to instantly sever all external access and remote services with a single click. This acts as a kill switch in the event of a suspected breach or malware event. TOS also includes a system-level security scanner that checks for basic vulnerabilities and enables 2FA, SSH restrictions, and SSL certificate deployment. While TerraMaster’s platform does not offer as many granular policy tools as DSM, it supports core protocols like OpenVPN and L2TP for secure remote access and regularly issues firmware updates in response to new threats. The company also now provides greater transparency regarding CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures), though its advisory frequency and scope remain smaller than Synology’s.

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Despite these advancements, TerraMaster’s security record has faced scrutiny in the past due to incidents like the Deadbolt ransomware attacks. These incidents, which also affected other NAS vendors, prompted significant user backlash and a push for more proactive security updates and faster patching. TerraMaster has since responded by improving software integrity and introducing layered protection features, but the lingering perception remains that Synology maintains a stronger and more proactive security posture overall.

This perception is reinforced by Synology’s investment in ongoing vulnerability research, bug bounty programs, and a broader portfolio of security-focused tools. As it stands in 2025, Synology continues to lead in NAS security maturity, while TerraMaster has made meaningful progress—especially with unique features like Isolation Mode—but still has ground to cover in enterprise-level protections and threat response.

Synology vs Terramaster NAS – Conclusion and Verdict

Comparing Synology and TerraMaster in 2025 ultimately highlights a clear philosophical divide between the two NAS brands. Synology continues to build upon a long-standing focus on refined software, tight integration, and enterprise-grade security. Its DSM platform remains one of the most polished and feature-rich operating systems in the NAS space, offering a wide selection of first-party tools for backup, surveillance, virtualization, and secure access. However, this ecosystem is increasingly closed, with stricter hardware compatibility requirements and limited support for third-party drives, SSDs, and expansions. For users who prioritize reliability, ease of use, and support from a mature software ecosystem, Synology remains a compelling—if sometimes restrictive—option.

Synology NAS– 5 Strengths vs TerraMaster in 2025 Superior software polish: DSM offers a more consistent, responsive, and user-friendly interface, ideal for beginners and pros alike. Better security infrastructure: Features like a dedicated PSIRT, frequent vulnerability disclosures, and a bug bounty program give Synology the edge in system safety. Mature first-party apps: Key tools like Active Backup for Business, Surveillance Station, and Synology Drive are more refined and feature-rich than their TOS counterparts. Streamlined management: Built-in tools for snapshots, monitoring, and backup offer a more centralized and automated experience. Longer ecosystem stability: Greater long-term support for software versions and consistent patch cycles provide peace of mind for business use. Cons: Strict hardware compatibility: Recent models (e.g., DS925+) restrict use of non-Synology drives and SSDs, frustrating users seeking flexibility. Less hardware value per dollar: Generally more expensive for equivalent CPU, RAM, and port configurations.

TerraMaster, by contrast, leans into flexibility and hardware value. Its broad portfolio includes NAS units ranging from entry-level to high-performance multi-bay SSD systems, often at lower price points than Synology’s equivalents. TOS 5.1 and the newer TOS 6 have brought meaningful improvements in UI and functionality, while still maintaining a more open approach to compatibility and user customization. Features like native Jellyfin support, VirtualBox VM deployment, and the ability to install TrueNAS or Unraid without voiding warranty make TerraMaster a standout for DIY-leaning users or those with niche requirements. However, its software, while improving, does not yet match the polish or depth of Synology DSM, especially in areas like virtualization, surveillance, and enterprise security.

TerraMaster NAS – 5 Strengths vs Synology in 2025 Better hardware value: Offers more powerful CPUs, RAM, M.2 slots, and 10GbE in the same or lower price bracket. Flexible OS options: Users can install TrueNAS, Unraid, or other OSes without voiding the warranty, offering unmatched flexibility. Open storage support: No restrictions on drive brand or SSD use, supporting Seagate, WD, Toshiba, Samsung, and more. More aggressive expansion options: TOS systems often support more USB and hybrid expansion units across the portfolio. Integrated Jellyfin support: TerraMaster includes native Jellyfin installation without relying on Docker or community packages. Cons: Less mature software ecosystem: TOS apps are less polished and lack some advanced features found in DSM tools. Weaker track record on security: Past vulnerabilities (e.g. Deadbolt) and slower public patching place more responsibility on the user for hardening.

In the end, choosing between Synology and TerraMaster depends heavily on user needs and expectations. Synology suits users who want a highly stable, all-in-one solution with minimal configuration and long-term support. TerraMaster offers greater adaptability and value for power users who are comfortable managing third-party apps and want to stretch their hardware investment further. Neither approach is inherently better—each has its strengths and trade-offs. Buyers seeking a tightly controlled, secure environment may gravitate toward Synology, while those who value hardware scalability, open software choices, and affordability may find more freedom with TerraMaster.

Synology DS925+ NAS		Terramaster F4-424 / Max / Pro
Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology NAS Solutions	Check B&H for the Synology NAS Solutions	Check Amazon in Your Region for the Terramaster NAS Solutions	Check B&H for the Terramaster NAS Solutions

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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UniFi New NAS Rumours – Everything We Know

Duing the UniFi World Conference event (the UWC 2025 expo event that took place in several places around the world over a week in May) the brand took the opportunity to share a huge amount of information about their roadmap for hardware and software in 2025 (and 2026!) and although there was a lot of information about cameras, switches, integrations and improvements – the big, BIG detail that emerged that got my attention was that the UNAS series of NAS devices is rumoured to be getting several portfolio additions over the course of the next 18+ Months! All of this was seemingly shared behind closed doors, with photography and video prohibited during the presentations (with choice projects by the brand like these limited to keynote ‘on stage’ presentations) and not available for general access and sharing on the show floor.

However, ALOT of the information shared was then discussed at length on forums and community sites across the internet (unsurprisingly predominantly on Reddit more than most – shocker I know). Because of this, we have a great deal of rumoured, shared and near-confirmed information about what the brand is planning for the soon to be growing UNAS series of devices – including a potentially dedicated M.2 NVMe SSD flash devices, Enterprise grade ZFS Rackmount system (XG NAS?) and even more entry level desktop solutions in 2 and 4 Bay SATA.

There is a lot to get to and I think we will likely see granular and gradual updates to all of these solutions as time wears on, so I wanted to create this article to add shared info and leaks as they appear online. You can get notifications and alerts on this page by subscribing at the bottom of the article.

IMPORTANT – Regardless of how solid/rumoured any of the UniFi UNAS systems that are detailed on this page are – do NOT be complacent about your data and backups! If you need a backup solution right now/soon, do not ‘hold out’ for these devices, as no device will ever be worth the danger of your data being lost (power lose resulting in a raid failure, data corruption, accidental deletion..need I go on?). So, if you like the sound of UniFi and their products, and the UNAS from UniFi sounds like it meets your needs, it is still available RIGHT NOW for just $499 HERE – It is a 7x SATA Half-Depth Rackmout NAS with 10GbE and a comprehensive data management software in UniFi Drive. You can watch my review HERE and my 6 Months Later update on it HERE.

Here is a list of Sources on Reddit that detail what was observed at Unifi World Conference 2025 with regard to Network Attached Storage:

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Which UniFi UNAS Devices Are Rumoured for 2025 and 2026?

16th June 2025 Updated

Below are the details we know so far (some details need further verification and confirmation, indicated appropriately) that we are aware of so far. Keep in mind (IMPORTANT) that these drives are massively ‘TBC’, so alongside potential name changes it is also possible that they may not arrive at all – as UniFi might change their mind based on market research about the need for a given device! Additionally, sometimes information online is contradictory to other information (eg the larger and smaller scale NAS system and a potential Pro XG system might well be the same device!), so do not treat this information as set in stone! Let’s break down each entry:

>>>>> IMPORTANT – IMAGES FOR GUIDANCE ONLY <<<<<

2 Bay Entry-Level HDD NAS

The UNAS Pro, although popular, is none the less quite large for much smaller user deployments – so if UniFi was to really stretch it’s muscles into the world of NAS, it would come as no surprise that they would provide more entry/small-footprint devices. So, the oft mentioned 2 Bay UNAS would be desirable, but also UniFi’s most compact HDD system to date, targeting home and SOHO users looking for simple backup or file-sharing functionality. No confirmation or detail on the shared information on the hardware profile (one can imagine an ARM base and 2-4GB of memory – but it’s all very ‘TBC’) and 2.5GbE connectivity. 2 drives would give precious little bandwidth for 10GbE to even be worth the time of day, even with SATA SSDs.

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An NVMe SSD NAS dedicated NAS for Creative Workflows

This proposed SSD focused NAS moves away from spinning disks in favor of M.2 NVMe SSD slots, focusing on silent, high-performance workflows for media creators or prosumers. This compact unit maintains a passive cooling design and leverages Drive 3.0’s new dynamic storage pool system to balance protection and performance. It’s intended for those needing faster I/O than HDDs can provide without the size or noise of a rackmount. if this ends up coming out, is would be INCREDIBLY popular (given M.2 SSD prices are now only around 2x more than HDD, with a 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD in both Gen3 and Gen4 hitting just $200+, and WD Red and Seagate Ironwolf 4TB HDDs around the $89-99 mark)

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4 Bay Desktop-Grade HDD NAS

This would deliver a more durable 4-bay solution with a desktop form factor, designed for small business environments or tech-savvy users. It combines the flexibility of 3.5″ HDDs with the enhanced features of UniFi Drive 3.0, including smarter snapshots and storage pools. Compared to the standard UNAS 2-bay discussed solution, this model would offer better RAID options, as well as performance potential (even in a RAID 5). Nevertheless, if/when this comes around, expect modest hardware under the hood!.

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A ‘Proper’ 4 Bay and 8 Bay Rackmount NAS

Alongside the already released 7 Bay UNAS Pro, there is talk of a 4 Bay and 8-bay rackmount NAS aimed at larger deployments such as offices, branch networks, or video surveillance environments as a storage target for UniFi Portect perhaps. Built to handle RAID 6 (rolling ut in the latest UniFi NAS OS and Drive updates) and large-scale storage pools, it includes business-class hardware for redundancy and expandability. Its release aligns with Ubiquiti’s push into more scalable data solutions under the UniFi Drive 3.0 future framework.

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An Enterprise ZFS Appliance – THIS IS WHERE IT GETS GOOD!

Although the existing UNAS Pro NAS system runs on an BTRFS foundation, there was multiple references and rumours to UniFi’s first foray into ZFS-based NAS systems and appears to be targeted at enterprise environments requiring snapshot-based backup, inline compression, and greater control over storage topology. Very few hardware specifics have been shared, and it is unclear whether this is a completely separate physical unit or a software SKU atop a Pro-series device. I will be interested to see if, if this arrives, how they will migrate the existing UNAS/Drive/NAS OS appliances onto this ZFS base – as well as whether it will benefit from the inline and native performance/integrity benefits of ZFS!

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