UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Cloud Subscription Killer

The UGREEN DH2300 is a compact two-bay NAS system positioned within the company’s value-focused lineup, intended for users moving away from cloud-based storage platforms toward affordable private solutions. Priced around the $200 mark, it is aimed at those who prioritize simplicity and convenience over raw performance or enterprise-level control. Designed for users who typically rely on Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox subscriptions, the DH2300 seeks to provide a self-contained alternative with no recurring fees, offering scheduled backups, remote file synchronization, and integrated media access through UGREEN’s proprietary UGOS Pro operating system. Internally, the system is built around an ARM-based processor combining a quad-core Cortex-A72 and quad-core Cortex-A53 architecture, clocked at up to 2.2GHz, with 4GB of LPDDR4 memory and a built-in 32GB eMMC for the OS. This hardware places the DH2300 in direct competition with entry-level models such as the Synology DS223 and QNAP TS-233, though its Rockchip RK3576 processor, G52 MC3 GPU, and 6 TOPS NPU give it a modest edge in AI-assisted photo recognition, multimedia indexing, and energy efficiency. As a compact, preconfigured NAS designed for first-time adopters, the DH2300’s real focus is not to replace professional systems but to bridge the gap between mainstream cloud users and personal storage ownership, reflecting UGREEN’s broader strategy of simplifying NAS technology for general consumers.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The UGREEN DH2300 is a compact, affordable two-bay NAS designed to bridge the gap between cloud storage and local data ownership for everyday users. Built around the Rockchip RK3576 processor—featuring two quad-core clusters of Cortex-A72 and A53 cores at up to 2.2GHz—and paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X memory, the system offers reliable ARM-level performance with efficient thermals and low noise output. Its design prioritizes simplicity, with vertical drive insertion, a single rear cooling fan, and a dedicated 32GB eMMC for UGOS Pro, which separates the OS from user data. Connectivity includes a 1GbE port, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and HDMI 4K60 output, while the software delivers key NAS essentials such as RAID management, snapshot recovery, cloud and USB backups, Docker support, and AI-powered photo indexing via its 6 TOPS NPU. Power consumption remains low at 9–13W depending on workload, and noise levels stay within 31–45 dBA under varying fan speeds. Although the fixed memory, single LAN port, and ambiguous CPU marketing reduce its appeal for enthusiasts, the DH2300 stands out as an efficient, straightforward, and well-priced solution for users seeking a dependable private cloud alternative without technical complexity.

Buy the UGREEN DH300 on Amazon @209	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on UGREEN.COM	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on B&H
	STORE

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Design and Storage

The UGREEN DH2300 adopts a clean, vertical form factor made entirely of plastic, emphasizing practicality and low cost over premium materials. The enclosure is lightweight yet well-ventilated, featuring a magnetic plastic top panel with slotted air channels that promote consistent airflow across both drive bays. The overall construction favors simplicity, with drive access positioned vertically rather than through traditional caddies. This layout helps minimize the unit’s footprint, making it suitable for desktop environments where noise and vibration are key considerations. While the plastic frame lacks the rigidity of aluminum enclosures seen in higher-end NAS models, it contributes to lower noise resonance and reduced amplification of mechanical drive vibration. The minimalist aesthetic, consistent with UGREEN’s other recent NAS releases, reflects its target audience: users seeking a consumer-friendly device that blends into a home office or living space rather than a server rack.

Internally, the DH2300 supports two 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, each connecting directly to fixed SATA connectors mounted on the board. The drive trays are basic but functional, requiring manual screw installation rather than tool-less mechanisms. Although UGREEN has not explicitly advertised hot-swapping as an official feature, testing showed that it is technically possible to replace drives without powering down, though such actions are not recommended without confirmation from official documentation. The NAS supports standard RAID configurations, including JBOD, RAID 0, and RAID 1, as well as individual drive modes, providing adequate flexibility for redundancy or performance-based setups. Storage initialization is straightforward within UGOS, with pool creation and volume setup guided by a wizard interface that fits the product’s “set-and-forget” philosophy.

Cooling is handled by a single rear-mounted fan positioned behind the drive bays, ensuring that heat generated by mechanical disks is efficiently extracted from the enclosure. The system’s vertical drive layout assists in natural convection, drawing air from the lower portion and expelling it from the top and rear. Despite being a plastic chassis, thermal management remains effective due to the extensive side and rear ventilation grilles, which circulate air across both drives and the mainboard components. In long-term use, the design demonstrated stable internal temperatures under typical file access and synchronization loads, maintaining drive and board thermals within an expected operational range even during extended testing periods.

From a functional standpoint, the DH2300 includes an internal 32GB eMMC module reserved for UGOS, preventing users from needing to dedicate part of their main storage array to system files. This separation simplifies setup and improves reliability by isolating the operating system from data drives. However, there are no M.2 or NVMe expansion slots available, meaning caching or SSD-tiered storage cannot be implemented. This is consistent with UGREEN’s entry-level positioning for the model, and the omission helps reduce production cost while keeping the power footprint low. The 32GB internal storage performs adequately for OS updates, indexing data, and temporary system operations.

The device’s storage capacity can reach up to two 30TB drives, allowing a maximum theoretical total of 60TB raw capacity, though most users will likely configure it in RAID 1 for redundancy. This makes the DH2300 a practical fit for home backup, photo archiving, and small-scale media libraries, especially when paired with the system’s built-in applications for photos, video, and document management. Overall, the DH2300’s design and storage layout reflect its goal of balancing ease of use with functional flexibility, providing just enough configurability to support typical home NAS workloads without introducing complexity that would deter less technical users.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Internal and External Hardware

Internally, the UGREEN DH2300 is powered by the Rockchip RK3576 processor, a hybrid 8-core ARM SoC that combines four high-performance Cortex-A72 cores with four efficiency-focused Cortex-A53 cores, running at up to 2.2GHz. While UGREEN markets this configuration as an “8-core processor,” it is technically composed of two separate quad-core clusters, something the company’s documentation does not clearly explain. This lack of clarity can mislead users into expecting a single unified 8-core design, whereas in practice the chip functions as two 4-core groups optimized for different workloads. The RK3576, built on an 8nm process, delivers a solid balance between efficiency and multitasking, keeping thermals low while maintaining adequate throughput for home NAS tasks. Its integrated ARM G52 MC3 GPU supports up to 8K H.265/H.264 decoding and HDR rendering through Rockchip’s dedicated Picture Quality Engine, which also supports ACM and DCI color profiles. These capabilities allow the DH2300 to output 4K60 video via HDMI, offering lightweight media playback directly from the system interface—an uncommon inclusion in this price class. Additionally, the CPU’s built-in 6 TOPS NPU enables AI-assisted indexing and face recognition within UGOS Pro, processing such tasks locally instead of relying on cloud services.

Memory allocation on the DH2300 is fixed at 4GB of LPDDR4X, soldered to the mainboard with no expansion slot available. This restriction aligns with the model’s consumer-grade purpose, though it naturally caps Docker container and multitasking potential. The onboard memory is sufficient for file serving, indexing, and moderate background services, while the 32GB eMMC 5.1 storage is dedicated to UGOS Pro and ensures stable OS operations without user intervention. There are no NVMe or UFS storage options, which simplifies the hardware layout but limits potential caching or high-speed data tiers. Nevertheless, the RK3576’s low power draw and balanced architecture ensure consistent operation under typical workloads, even during prolonged use, with minimal heat output and silent operation under idle conditions.

Externally, the NAS presents a modest selection of connectivity options suitable for its market position. The rear hosts a single 1GbE LAN port—adequate for most home users but a notable downgrade from the 2.5GbE interface found on UGREEN’s larger models like the DH4300 PLUS. File transfers, backups, and streaming functions remain well within the limits of 1GbE for single-user environments, though network saturation can occur during multi-user access. Peripheral connectivity is handled by two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, all operating at 5Gbps, supporting external drives, UPS communication, or backup targets. An HDMI 2.0 port on the rear supports 4K60 output for local playback or display configuration, while system LEDs provide visual feedback for drive activity, system status, and network connection. Power is supplied by a 50W external adapter that connects via a barrel plug, keeping internal temperatures and noise low by externalizing the PSU.

The inclusion of HDMI output in such a budget-focused system underscores UGREEN’s attempt to merge NAS and home entertainment functions. Although the RK3576 chipset supports a wider range of display interfaces—including DisplayPort, MIPI, and eDP—these are not implemented in the DH2300’s design, reflecting deliberate simplification for cost and usability. The absence of multi-gigabit networking, PCIe expansion, or additional LAN redundancy limits its potential for advanced setups, yet for its intended audience the configuration remains practical. In short, the DH2300’s internal layout, despite its simplified design and some ambiguous marketing around the CPU, delivers an efficient and capable platform for mainstream home users seeking affordable private storage.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – UGOS NAS Software and Services

UGREEN’s DH2300 runs the company’s proprietary UGOS Pro, a Linux-based operating system tailored for simplicity and everyday use. The interface mirrors the design language of mainstream consumer cloud platforms, featuring a desktop-style environment with drag-and-drop file management, live system monitoring, and user account controls. Although UGOS Pro shares much of its design and functionality with that found on UGREEN’s larger DH4300 PLUS model, a few service limitations appear due to the ARM-based architecture of the DH2300. These include the absence of virtual machine support and limited resource capacity for multiple Docker containers, stemming from the 4GB of fixed memory. Nonetheless, the software remains fully featured for file storage, synchronization, multimedia management, and light AI applications, and receives regular over-the-air updates that refine usability and security. The desktop and mobile clients also synchronize settings seamlessly, allowing users to manage their NAS both locally and remotely.

From a user management perspective, UGOS provides fine-grained control of accounts, permissions, and network access. Administrators can create user groups, apply password complexity policies, and define shared-folder privileges with ease. The system supports multiple file transfer protocols, including SMB, AFP, NFS, and Rsync, as well as optional WebDAV and FTP for broader compatibility. Remote access can be configured either through UGREEN’s own relay service or via LAN-only mode for tighter network security. The security dashboard consolidates features such as auto-block for repeated failed logins, two-factor authentication, firewall configuration, and selective port access rules. SSH and Telnet access are disabled by default, a responsible design choice for less experienced users, but can be enabled manually for advanced administration. These features bring the DH2300 close in functionality to entry-level NAS systems from Synology or QNAP, even though it remains less configurable overall.

Storage management is one of UGOS Pro’s more mature components. Users can create storage pools and volumes in JBOD, RAID 0, or RAID 1, with scheduled drive tests, SMART diagnostics, and Seagate IronWolf Health integration for supported drives. The storage manager also includes rebuild and repair settings that allow users to prioritise either RAID reconstruction speed or system performance during rebuilds. Snapshot protection is integrated at the folder level, with both versioned and scheduled snapshots available for data recovery. Although the system does not offer full OS-level backups, users can schedule NAS-to-NAS, NAS-to-USB, and NAS-to-Cloud synchronisation tasks using Rsync or proprietary tools. These backups can include filters for file type, size, and modification date, making them adaptable to both personal and small office usage. In practice, the storage controls are intuitive and well-implemented for a first-generation NAS platform, with sufficient safeguards for casual users who might otherwise rely on third-party cloud apps.

Application availability has steadily improved since UGREEN’s NAS debut in 2023 (at least, in the ‘west’, as they have been a NAS name in the east since 2020/2021). The App Center now includes a range of first-party utilities such as a file manager, photo station, video station, and music library, as well as third-party options like Plex, Jellyfin, and Docker containers. AI-based features such as face, text, and object recognition are supported thanks to the 6 TOPS NPU in the RK3576, though performance varies depending on workload size. The integrated Vault app provides encrypted storage areas secured by password or downloadable key, which can be auto-locked on reboot for privacy. Meanwhile, the mobile companion app mirrors almost every desktop function, from user and storage administration to Docker control and media playback. Having all management tasks accessible within a single unified mobile app, rather than separate applications for photos or video, demonstrates UGREEN’s streamlined approach to usability, positioning UGOS Pro as a consumer-friendly OS that hides most of the NAS complexity from first-time users. However, I cannot stress enough that this software is still a decent way behind long-established players such as Synology DSM and QNAP QTS in terms of features, maturity and client support. Additionally, as one of the newest names in the world of NAS, the brand has yet to be truly ‘tested’ when it comes to security strength and how they handle/respond to a larger scale security incident. So wheat we find here is good enough for hte price point, but is only a small step or two above what users have come to expect from privately owned NAS nonetheless in 2025/2026.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Heat, Noise and Power Consumption Tests

Thermal and acoustic performance on the UGREEN DH2300 is generally stable and consistent with expectations for a low-power ARM-based NAS. The system uses a single rear-mounted fan that automatically adjusts its RPM in response to internal temperature sensors, aided by the ventilated top and side panels. During extended operation, the fan demonstrated smooth, gradual speed transitions rather than abrupt cycling, which helped minimize background noise. With two 4TB Seagate IronWolf drives installed, the system recorded approximately 31–32 dBA in idle mode with the fan set to “Low” in UGOS. When switched to “Auto,” and under light file activity, readings rose to 33–35 dBA, while heavier read and write operations increased noise levels to 38–41 dBA. Under maximum fan speed, levels peaked at 44–45 dBA, making the fan audible but still within acceptable limits for a desktop environment. The use of plastic housing reduces the resonance that typically amplifies drive vibration in metal enclosures, although some low-frequency hum remains during heavy disk access.

Temperature readings taken over a 24-hour mixed-use test period show that the chassis maintains good internal thermal balance, aided by vertical airflow and efficient low-wattage components. The NAS was powered down overnight before the test, then reactivated for hourly upload and backup tasks, simulating intermittent real-world usage. During idle periods, the drives stabilized at 35–37°C, while moderate access cycles pushed them to 42°C. The motherboard and surrounding airflow remained at approximately 34–35°C, with rear exhaust temperatures registering slightly higher. Despite the passive nature of some cooling zones, heat accumulation around the CPU remained minimal, peaking around 50–60°C during sustained transfer activity. These figures suggest that UGREEN’s internal airflow design, while basic, is sufficient for continuous operation with standard HDDs. Users in warmer climates or those employing higher-RPM drives might consider increasing fan control sensitivity via UGOS to maintain consistent thermals.

Power consumption results were equally conservative. With two 4TB mechanical drives installed and the system idle at below 5% CPU utilization, the DH2300 drew roughly 9.5W, a competitive figure for a two-bay NAS. During typical data transfers and 50% CPU load, draw increased modestly to 12–13W, remaining far below that of comparable x86-based systems. The external 50W power adapter ensures the NAS operates efficiently while reducing internal heat buildup. Users employing SSDs instead of HDDs could expect overall consumption to drop by an additional 4–5W, further improving energy efficiency. These results confirm the DH2300’s suitability for continuous operation, including 24/7 use as a network backup target or low-impact media server.

Its minimal noise and low thermal footprint make it a non-intrusive addition to a home or small office environment, aligning with its purpose as a budget, always-on NAS solution.

UGREEN DH2300 NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The UGREEN DH2300 represents a carefully positioned step in the company’s ongoing effort to make private storage approachable for non-technical users. Its hardware configuration, led by the Rockchip RK3576 processor and 4GB of fixed memory, provides solid baseline performance for a two-bay ARM-powered NAS at this price point. Although its single 1GbE network port may limit throughput for larger file transfers, the system compensates with a highly efficient power profile, quiet operation, and full support for common RAID configurations. The inclusion of a dedicated 32GB eMMC system drive, HDMI 4K60 output, and an NPU capable of AI-based photo indexing places it above most similarly priced entry-level alternatives from QNAP and Synology. However, certain aspects of UGREEN’s marketing—particularly the way the dual quad-core CPU clusters are presented as a single 8-core design—could be clearer. Likewise, the absence of upgradeable memory or faster networking options limits its long-term scalability for users seeking to expand their NAS environment beyond basic media and backup tasks.

From a broader standpoint, the DH2300’s strongest appeal lies in its simplicity and low operational overhead. UGOS Pro, though still developing in maturity, has evolved into a competent, user-friendly platform offering the key features needed for home data management, multimedia access, and scheduled backups. The OS’s stability, combined with efficient hardware and lightweight design, makes this NAS a practical alternative to annual cloud subscriptions for users who simply want local control over their data. It is not a system aimed at enthusiasts or professionals demanding virtual machines, multi-gig networking, or broad third-party OS support, but rather those seeking a self-contained, reliable, and low-maintenance device. Within that niche, the DH2300 delivers strong value and performs consistently well for the intended demographic—serving as an accessible first step into local storage ownership.

 

Buy the UGREEN DH300 on Amazon @209	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on UGREEN.COM	Buy the UGREEN DH2300 on B&H
	STORE

PROs of the UGREEN DH2300 NAS

CONs of the UGREEN DH2300 NAS

Efficient Rockchip RK3576 processor (dual quad-core ARM design) provides strong performance for a low-power NAS. Integrated 6 TOPS NPU enables local AI functions such as face, text, and object recognition without cloud reliance. UGOS Pro offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface with features like RAID management, snapshots, Docker, and backups. Low noise output (31–45 dBA) and excellent power efficiency (9–13W typical use) suit 24/7 home operation. Dedicated 32GB eMMC system drive keeps the OS separate from data volumes for better reliability. HDMI 2.0 4K60 output allows direct media playback and display management. Competitive pricing around $200 makes it a strong entry-level NAS alternative to subscription cloud storage.

Single 1GbE LAN port limits transfer speeds and network scalability. Fixed 4GB memory restricts heavy multitasking or Docker use. Spending just $100-150 more gets you much, much more capable x86 powered systems

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

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

 

Jonsbo N10 NAS Case Review – A REAL M-ITX NAS Enclosure?

The Jonsbo N10 is a purpose-built NAS enclosure tailored for Mini-ITX builds that prioritizes a compact footprint, flash-based storage, and low-power operation. Announced at Computex 2025, the N10 represents a significant design departure from Jonsbo’s earlier N5 chassis by reducing overall dimensions to just 205mm in width and depth, and 108mm in height. This change reflects a broader trend in DIY NAS building—especially among users deploying SSD-only arrays or compact motherboards with embedded CPUs—who value minimal space usage without sacrificing component access or build quality. The enclosure supports up to four 2.5-inch SATA SSDs or HDDs mounted along its internal base, along with a FLEX 1U power supply (up to 150mm) and a low-profile CPU cooler not exceeding 38mm in height. Constructed from thick 3.3mm aluminum alloy panels and a 1.0mm steel interior frame, it offers durability alongside a neutral, industrial aesthetic that blends well in home and office environments. Given the increasing popularity of MITX NAS boards from brands like Topton and CWWK, which often include soldered CPUs and compact layouts, the Jonsbo N10 enters the market as a focused option for builders who need efficient thermal performance, portability, and enough internal expansion to support a hybrid SSD/M.2 architecture in a space-conscious package.

Jonsbo N10 NAS Enclosure Review – Quick Conclusion

The Jonsbo N10 is a compact, purpose-built Mini-ITX NAS enclosure designed for users prioritizing SSD-based storage in a low-power, space-efficient build. With a footprint of just 205mm square and 108mm tall, it offers four 2.5-inch drive bays, FLEX PSU support, and a solid aluminum-steel construction that balances durability with minimalism. Its layout is well-suited for embedded CPU boards and hybrid storage configurations, but tight internal spacing, a 38mm CPU cooler height limit, and the lack of PCIe card support require careful component selection. While cooling is handled by two built-in 40mm fans and ventilation across multiple panels, airflow in the upper cavity remains passive and somewhat restricted—posing thermal challenges for high-performance CPUs or 10GbE NICs. Setup is straightforward, though users must manually route all SATA data and power cables, as no backplane is included. The inclusion of helpful accessories such as a Molex-to-SATA adapter and magnetic top panel adds value, and the minimalist I/O—with a single USB Type-C—reinforces its role as a headless NAS unit. Ultimately, the N10 is not a catch-all solution, but for users building SSD-centric NAS systems with efficient MITX boards, it offers a tightly focused and well-executed platform with a strong balance of features and size.

Note – You can see the comparison of the Jonsbo N2, N3, N4 and N5 in this article HERE

Where to Buy? Jonsbo N10 (Aliexpress $82) – HERE Jonsbo NV10 (Aliexpress $109) – HERE Jonsbo N5 (Aliexpress $195) – HERE Jonsbo N5 (Aliexpress $192) – HERE

Jonsbo N10 NAS Enclosure Review – Case Design, Ventilation and Cooling

The exterior design of the Jonsbo N10 emphasizes minimalism and space efficiency. Measuring just 205mm wide, 205mm deep, and 108mm high, the case is almost a perfect cube in footprint, but with a shallow vertical profile that makes it easy to deploy on desks, shelves, or tight AV cabinets. The use of 1mm thick aluminum alloy on the outer panels not only provides a premium feel but also contributes to structural integrity without excessive weight.

Combined with the internal steel chassis, the enclosure remains sturdy under load while keeping its overall weight to just 1.6kg. From a visual standpoint, the clean lines and brushed finish—available in black or silver—are devoid of branding or unnecessary ornamentation, which suits its role as a discrete server or quiet storage box in professional or home setups.

Ventilation is a core part of the external layout, with venting present on nearly every surface of the chassis. Perforations on the side panels, rear, and base allow for passive air movement across internal components, helping to reduce thermal buildup. While the compact size limits the scope of airflow paths, Jonsbo has attempted to compensate by ensuring that each major face includes some form of ventilation.

The top panel, held in place magnetically, can be removed easily for additional airflow during installation or servicing. However, this panel itself includes no fan mounts or perforations, which may limit vertical heat dissipation unless the lid is removed or modded.

Cooling is primarily handled by two built-in 40mm x 20mm exhaust fans mounted on the rear panel, each rated at 5000 RPM. These fans are positioned to draw hot air away from the internal drive bay and motherboard area, effectively pulling air in through the side and base perforations and pushing it out the back.

While the fans are small, their high RPM ensures a reasonable volume of air is cycled through the chassis. During testing, this design produced moderate acoustic output—peaking at around 43-45 dBA at load when measured from the rear—and noise levels were generally acceptable for typical NAS operation, particularly with low-TDP motherboards and embedded CPUs.

That said, airflow through the top cavity of the enclosure is limited. While the base panel and lower chamber benefit from fan-assisted cooling directed over the SSDs and PSU, the upper portion—where the CPU cooler and any on-board NICs are located—relies entirely on passive convection.

This can lead to hot air stagnation around components like 10GbE controllers or active M.2 heatsinks, particularly in long uptime scenarios. In your testing, surface temperatures on the top panel reached 31–33°C after 24 hours of deployment, with internals climbing higher toward 55–56°C, especially around passive heatsinks with limited surrounding airflow.

The absence of additional fan mounting options or top-mounted exhaust fans means users have little room to expand the cooling setup. While some users may consider modding the top panel to add extra fans or mesh inserts, the stock configuration offers no support for such upgrades.

This makes thermal planning crucial, especially for users deploying more powerful CPUs like Intel’s i5-1240P or using motherboards with multiple onboard NVMe drives and high-speed networking. For more passive deployments, like those with low-power N305 or N355 CPUs and minimal drive activity, the default setup should be sufficient—though tight airflow margins should always be considered during build planning.

Jonsbo N10 NAS Enclosure Review – Internal Design

Internally, the Jonsbo N10 is laid out to support only the essentials, reflecting its role as a NAS-first chassis with limited internal expansion. The Mini-ITX motherboard tray sits centrally within the lower half of the enclosure, flanked on one side by the FLEX PSU bracket and on the other by the horizontal drive cage. Despite the symmetrical exterior, internal space is tightly constrained, and components must be carefully selected and installed in a deliberate sequence to avoid obstructing airflow or cabling paths.

The steel frame keeps the motherboard tray stable, but there’s little clearance between installed components, which becomes immediately apparent when routing power and SATA data cables across the system. Most of the case’s internal volume is claimed by either the drive cage or power supply, leaving minimal open airspace.

The four 2.5-inch drive bays are arranged in a single, fixed cage at the base of the unit. This cage does not feature any kind of backplane or hot-swap system—instead, users must manually screw each SSD into place using traditional mounting trays. Drives are accessed from the underside of the top panel after removing the magnetic lid, and their power/data cabling must be routed individually.

In small builds, this can quickly become a challenge. The case includes a Molex-to-SATA power adapter, which is a thoughtful addition for budget FLEX PSUs that lack four dedicated SATA power leads. However, data cable management remains the user’s responsibility. In builds using motherboards without breakout SATA connectors (such as SFF-8643 or SlimSAS), this results in a dense bundle of SATA leads running through an already cramped enclosure.

Clearance around the CPU socket is equally limited. The N10 supports CPU coolers up to 38mm in height, restricting users to ultra-low-profile models. This makes it well-suited for embedded CPU motherboards like the CWWK N150 or N355, which come with passive or ball-bearing heatsinks under 30mm.

However, builders looking to use socketed CPUs like the i5-1240P will need to carefully select compatible coolers and be mindful of airflow choke points. There is no room for PCIe devices internally, and although some MITX boards have slots, they are effectively unusable due to chassis constraints. Any notion of using riser cards or external PCIe breakouts (such as M.2 to OCuLink) is largely impractical within this case’s physical limits.

Connectivity on the Jonsbo N10 is intentionally minimal. The front I/O panel includes a single USB Type-C port positioned on the top-right edge of the chassis, routed internally via a standard front-panel header. There are no additional USB-A ports, audio jacks, or buttons present, in keeping with the case’s clean exterior aesthetic.

While this simplicity reinforces the N10’s focus as a headless or remote-managed NAS system, it does reduce options for users who might want to connect external drives, peripherals, or configure the system locally without reaching behind the unit. Builders relying on initial direct access may need to route peripheral cabling through the rear motherboard I/O or temporarily remove the top lid for setup.

The power supply format supported is strictly FLEX 1U, with units up to 150mm in length permitted. This rear-mounted PSU bracket is placed above the motherboard tray and next to the SSD cage, and the power supply’s fan helps assist with rear airflow in conjunction with the two pre-installed 40mm exhaust fans.

While FLEX PSUs are well-suited to compact enclosures, they can be noisy under load and tend to cost more than SFX or ATX equivalents—especially if aiming for 80+ Gold or higher efficiency ratings. The internal wiring must be routed carefully due to spatial limitations, and although the case does include a Molex-to-SATA power adapter, it does not include any SATA data cables, which users must supply themselves. PSU airflow is indirectly beneficial to nearby components, but cooling requirements should be factored into PSU selection to avoid thermal bottlenecks.

The N10’s primary storage capability comes from its four internal 2.5-inch drive bays. Positioned in a fixed steel cage, the bays are arranged horizontally and mounted via screws without any vibration dampening or tool-less features. As noted earlier, there is no backplane, so each drive requires a dedicated SATA data and power cable, which must be routed manually through tight internal spaces.

While the design clearly targets SSD usage due to thermal and vibration limitations, there is potential for 2.5-inch HDDs as well—though builders should be cautious of heat and noise. Some modders may consider fitting up to two 3.5-inch drives with minor modifications, but this would require bypassing manufacturer recommendations and limits compatibility to 8TB drives or smaller due to physical height constraints.

When paired with modern MITX boards featuring multiple onboard M.2 slots, the N10 can accommodate hybrid storage setups—though again, thermal planning remains crucial.

The Jonsbo N10 delivers on its objective: to offer a compact, purpose-built NAS enclosure for Mini-ITX systems focused on SSD-based storage. It embraces the growing trend of low-power, embedded CPU platforms and caters directly to users building quiet, energy-efficient NAS devices for tasks like media serving, remote backups, or personal cloud storage. Its clean exterior design, robust aluminum-steel construction, and compact footprint make it appealing for constrained environments or unobtrusive desktop deployment. The inclusion of pre-installed fans, a Type-C front I/O, and even minor accessories like a Molex-to-SATA adapter add value to the out-of-box experience. However, its internal layout requires deliberate component choice and build planning due to significant space limitations and tight thermal margins.

While not designed for broad flexibility, the N10 excels in its niche. There is no support for PCIe add-ons or active top-panel cooling, and the absence of hot-swap bays or bundled SATA data cables may frustrate some users expecting turnkey solutions. That said, for those familiar with small form factor NAS building, these limitations are expected trade-offs for a case that prioritizes minimalism and focused utility. As pre-built NAS units continue to integrate soldered CPUs and non-upgradable memory, enclosures like the N10 offer a rare chance for builders to retain full control over their hardware stack—provided they’re willing to work within the tight confines of the design. In short, the N10 is not for everyone, but for those building compact SSD-focused NAS systems, it strikes a well-executed balance between form, function, and footprint.

Where to Buy? Jonsbo N10 (Aliexpress $82) – HERE Jonsbo NV10 (Aliexpress $109) – HERE Jonsbo N5 (Aliexpress $195) – HERE Jonsbo N5 (Aliexpress $192) – HERE

Read the Jonsbo NAS Series Comparison Article on NASCompares Below (click below):

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

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