Synology DS725+ Expandable 2-Bay NAS Revealed

The Synology DS725+ enters the scene as part of the company’s 2025 refresh to its Plus Series lineup, targeting power users, small businesses, and edge deployments that require compact, capable storage solutions without stepping into rackmount or enterprise territory. As a successor to the DS723+, it introduces several meaningful updates that improve the system’s usability right out of the box—most notably, a doubling of base memory to 4 GB ECC DDR4 (up from 2 GB) and the inclusion of a 2.5GbE LAN port for significantly faster network transfers, especially when working with high-resolution media or syncing large datasets across offices. These improvements make it immediately better suited for modern hybrid cloud workflows via Synology Drive, smoother multi-user access in Synology Photos and Office, and more responsive local performance in Surveillance Station environments. However, these upgrades come with trade-offs: the CPU remains unchanged, using the same AMD Ryzen R1600 found in the DS723+, and the PCIe slot has been removed, eliminating the popular option to upgrade to 10GbE networking or install additional specialized cards. As a result, while the DS725+ simplifies connectivity by offering faster speeds upfront, it also enforces a more rigid hardware configuration. It’s a device clearly designed with platform consistency and managed environments in mind—particularly when paired with Synology’s increasingly closed ecosystem of verified drives and accessories. For those already aligned with Synology’s ecosystem, the DS725+ offers a stable and streamlined solution for private cloud deployment that is more about ability than base storage – but with the option to add more later, collaborative data workflows, and secure backup environments. But does it deserve your data? Let’s discuss.

Synology DS725+ NAS – Hardware Specifications

The DS725+ is powered by the same dual-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor found in its predecessor, the DS723+. This chip runs at a base clock of 2.6 GHz with a boost up to 3.1 GHz and supports hardware encryption acceleration, making it capable of handling simultaneous services like encrypted file access, Synology Drive syncing, and light virtual machine workloads. While it’s a competent processor for this class of NAS, its reuse in the DS725+ may be seen as a missed opportunity for users who were hoping for a newer or more power-efficient generation—particularly with rising expectations around AI-powered indexing and multimedia transcoding. That said, DSM 7.2’s core apps like Hyper Backup, Snapshot Replication, and Active Backup Suite remain well within the CPU’s performance envelope, ensuring reliable day-to-day operations for home offices and remote workers.

Where the DS725+ makes a clear improvement is in memory. Unlike the DS723+, which shipped with 2 GB of ECC RAM, the DS725+ doubles the default capacity to 4 GB ECC DDR4, offering more breathing room for multitasking, container workloads, and collaborative apps like Synology Office and Chat. This is particularly helpful for deployments using packages such as Synology MailPlus or managing multiple Surveillance Station camera streams. The RAM is installed in one of two available SODIMM slots, and the unit officially supports up to 32 GB (16 GB x2), making it suitable for heavier use cases like running multiple virtual DSM instances or handling extensive indexing operations in Synology Photos. ECC memory, while not strictly essential for all users, adds a layer of data integrity that reinforces the DS725+’s suitability for professional and production environments.

In terms of connectivity, the DS725+ makes a decisive shift by replacing the DS723+’s dual 1GbE ports with a more modern setup: one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port. This move improves real-world transfer speeds out of the box without requiring a PCIe network upgrade, as was previously necessary. However, it also reflects a deliberate limitation: the PCIe Gen3 x2 slot from the DS723+ is no longer present, meaning users cannot add a 10GbE NIC or other expansion cards. Storage-wise, the DS725+ retains the same 2-bay SATA layout, supports hot-swappable 3.5″/2.5″ drives, and introduces M.2 NVMe SSD slots that allow Synology-branded SSDs to be used not just for caching but also for primary storage pools. Users can expand total storage to 7 drives via the DX525 USB-C expansion unit, and cooling is handled by a single 92mm fan in the rear. Power draw remains low, with a 90W adapter and idle consumption under 9W, keeping it efficient for always-on deployment.

Synology DS725+ vs DS723+ NAS – Much of an Upgrade?

At a glance, the DS725+ and DS723+ appear to be cut from the same mold. They share the same AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core processor, identical physical dimensions, drive bay count, and expansion potential via an optional five-bay unit. However, the DS725+ makes several deliberate design changes aimed at improving out-of-the-box usability, while also signaling a shift toward Synology’s 2025 platform philosophy. Chief among these changes is the inclusion of a 2.5GbE LAN port, replacing one of the two 1GbE ports found on the DS723+. This upgrade allows users to immediately take advantage of higher bandwidth for file transfers, especially useful for larger datasets handled through Synology Drive or multimedia libraries accessed via SMB. At the same time, the DS725+ sheds the DS723+’s PCIe Gen3 x2 expansion slot, which means users no longer have the option to add a 10GbE NIC or other cards. For users needing maximum future-proofing or high-throughput workloads, this loss may feel restrictive.

Another key improvement is in system memory. The DS725+ comes with 4 GB of ECC DDR4 RAM pre-installed, doubling the 2 GB included with the DS723+. This seemingly modest upgrade has real-world implications. Services like Synology Photos, which require more memory for AI-driven facial and object recognition, or Synology Office, which handles collaborative document editing, benefit directly from the added RAM—making the system more responsive and able to support more concurrent users from the outset. For users running multiple applications, hosting virtual DSMs, or leveraging Hyper Backup with compression and deduplication, the DS725+ delivers a more capable base configuration without requiring immediate memory expansion. Both systems support upgrades up to 32 GB, but the DS725+ gives a head start where it matters.

However, the most controversial difference between these two models lies in drive compatibility. The DS723+ was among the last in Synology’s lineup to offer relatively open support for third-party drives—with warning banners but no functional blocks in DSM. The DS725+, by contrast, fully embraces Synology’s walled-garden storage policy. Users must use Synology-verified drives (such as HAT3300/5300 HDDs and SNV3400 SSDs) for core operations like DSM installation, volume creation, and RAID rebuilds. While migrated pools using unverified drives may still mount with warnings, new deployments and expansions are effectively locked down. This shift reflects Synology’s strategy to control hardware variables for improved stability and long-term support—but it’s also a clear trade-off in flexibility and total cost, especially for existing users with stockpiled third-party drives from trusted vendors like Seagate or WD.

Synology DS725+ NAS DSM Software & Services

Like all current-generation DiskStation models, the DS725+ runs on Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.2, a mature, Linux-based operating system that delivers one of the most refined NAS user experiences available today. DSM combines consumer-friendly accessibility with enterprise-ready tools, making the DS725+ suitable for a wide range of use cases—from personal media libraries to business-critical collaboration environments.

Core services such as Synology Drive transform the DS725+ into a fully private cloud, enabling real-time file syncing across devices and platforms, granular access permissions, file versioning, and web-based document previews. The system can support up to 50 Drive users and half a million hosted files, making it a capable solution for small teams managing shared datasets or projects. Meanwhile, Synology Photos leverages the upgraded system memory to provide intelligent media organization, with facial and object recognition that improves as additional photos are indexed—an increasingly valuable feature in creative or archival workflows.

For data protection and business continuity, the DS725+ supports Synology’s comprehensive backup ecosystem. Active Backup Suite consolidates backup tasks for Windows and Linux endpoints, VMware and Hyper-V virtual machines, and Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace SaaS accounts. Administrators can automate tasks, monitor statuses from a unified console, and execute bare-metal recovery when needed.

Complementing this is Hyper Backup, which allows multi-destination backups—ranging from local USB storage to other NAS units, rsync targets, or Synology C2 Storage. The inclusion of Snapshot Replication provides near-instantaneous versioned recovery with 128 snapshots per shared folder and 256 per system, ensuring protection against data corruption, ransomware, or accidental deletion. These tools can be used together to create a robust, layered protection strategy even in a small-scale deployment.

Beyond file management and backup, DSM turns the DS725+ into a complete digital operations hub. With Synology Office, users can co-author documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in real time within a browser—ideal for small teams replacing Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 with a private alternative. Communication tools like Synology Chat and MailPlus offer encrypted messaging and a scalable private email server with support for up to 60 users (5 free accounts included).

For security-conscious setups or compliance-driven environments, these services operate entirely within your NAS, without relying on third-party cloud platforms. Meanwhile, Surveillance Station allows the DS725+ to manage up to 40 IP cameras at 1080p (H.265) with license-free recording for two channels, making it a competent choice for office or home surveillance when paired with Synology’s mobile and desktop apps. DSM’s inclusion of Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (AMFA), Active Insight fleet monitoring, and SSL/TLS support ensures that even this compact 2-bay NAS delivers serious administrative and security capabilities.

Synology DS725+ NAS Release and Price

The Synology DS725+ is set for a phased global release, with initial availability rolling out across Eastern markets—including Japan, Taiwan, China, and Australia—in late May 2025, followed by a wider international launch in June 2025. While Synology has yet to publish official retail pricing, the DS725+ is expected to arrive in line with its predecessor, the DS723+, placing it in the $449 to $499 USD range. This positions the DS725+ in the upper tier of the compact 2-bay NAS segment, offering a blend of business-capable performance and centralized storage management for prosumers, remote workers, and small teams.

Although its specifications remain similar to the DS723+ in some areas—particularly with regard to the CPU—the DS725+ includes default features like 2.5GbE networking and higher base memory, which previously required add-ons or manual upgrades. These improvements may appeal to users who want a more capable system straight out of the box without needing to invest in additional hardware. However, buyers should also be aware of the tightened hardware compatibility policy introduced across Synology’s 2025 product line. As with other new-generation models, the DS725+ requires Synology-verified drives for key operations such as DSM installation, volume creation, and SSD caching, which could impact overall system cost and drive choice flexibility.

Given these factors, the DS725+ is best suited for users seeking a stable, tightly integrated NAS experience with long-term software support and advanced functionality provided through DSM. While those with existing third-party drives may need to consider compatibility constraints, the DS725+ still represents a focused and modernized solution in the 2-bay NAS category—particularly for those fully aligned with Synology’s expanding ecosystem.

Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS725+ NAS

Check B&H for the Synology DS725+ NAS

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

 

 

Cooler Master profite du Computex 2025 pour dévoiler sa vision « One Cooler Master – Where Cooling Drives the Future »

Cet article Computex 2025 : Cooler Master dévoile l’avenir du refroidissement avec “One Cooler Master” a été publié en premier par GinjFo.

Orico CF Cybervault NAS Series Coming Soon

ORICO is preparing to launch a new range of hybrid and all-flash NAS systems under the CyberData Vault banner, targeting a wide spectrum of users—from content creators and post-production teams to small office environments and AI development professionals. The information, shared directly by the brand ahead of its upcoming crowdfunding campaign, reveals six individual models: CF500, CF500 Pro, CF6 (All-Flash), CF56, CF56 Pro, and the CF1000. Each variant is engineered to meet specific workflow demands, offering a range of storage bay configurations, performance tiers, and connectivity options. Central to all models is the integration of the ZFS file system, providing snapshot-based protection and data integrity checks, alongside Intel’s 12th or 13th Gen CPUs, DDR5 memory, and support for hybrid M.2 + HDD setups. These NAS units are designed for users seeking full ownership of their data infrastructure with no recurring software fees—delivering private cloud capabilities optimized for speed, scalability, and reliability.

Orico Cyberdata Vault NAS Hardware Specifications

The ORICO CyberData Vault NAS lineup spans a diverse range of hardware configurations, designed to match varying workloads from basic file storage to high-bandwidth, real-time editing and AI processing. At the entry point, the CF500 and CF500 Pro models provide 5-bay HDD storage combined with dual M.2 SSD slots, powered by either a quad-core Intel N150 or an octa-core Intel Core i3-N305 processor. These systems support up to 32GB of DDR5 memory and are well-suited for small studios or home offices seeking an affordable yet capable hybrid NAS.

Specification	CF500	CF500 Pro	CF6 (All-Flash)	CF56 (Mixed)	CF56 Pro (Mixed)	CF1000
CPU	Intel N150 (4C / 4T)	Intel Core i3-N305 (8C / 8T)	Intel Core i3-N305 (8C / 8T)	Intel Core i3-N305 (8C / 8T)	Intel Core i3-N305 (8C / 8T)	Intel Core i5-1240P (12C / 16T)
Memory (DDR5)	8GB (up to 32GB)	8GB (up to 32GB)	16GB (up to 64GB)	16GB (up to 64GB)	16GB (up to 64GB)	16GB (up to 64GB)
Boot/Flash Storage	32GB eMMC	32GB eMMC	64GB eMMC	64GB eMMC	128GB SSD	128GB SSD
Drive Bays	5 x 3.5” HDD + 2 x M.2 SSD	5 x 3.5” HDD + 2 x M.2 SSD	6 x M.2 NVMe SSD (All Flash)	5 x 3.5” HDD + 6 x M.2 SSD	5 x 3.5” HDD + 6 x M.2 SSD	10 x 3.5” HDD + 2 x M.2 SSD
RAID Support	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10	0 / 1 / 5 / 6 / 10 / 50 / 60
Networking	1 x 2.5GbE	1 x 2.5GbE + 1 x 10GbE	1 x 2.5GbE + 1 x 10GbE	1 x 2.5GbE + 1 x 10GbE	2 x 10GbE	2 x 10GbE
USB Ports	2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 2 x USB 2.0	Same as CF500	Same as CF500	Same as CF500	Same as CF500	2 x USB4 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 2 x USB 2.0
Video Output	1 x HDMI 2.0 + 1 x DP 1.4	1 x HDMI 2.0 + 1 x DP 1.4	1 x HDMI 2.0 + 1 x DP 1.4	1 x HDMI 2.0 + 1 x DP 1.4	1 x HDMI 2.1 + 1 x DP 1.4a (8K)	1 x HDMI 2.1 + 1 x DP 1.4a (8K)
AI & AIGC Features	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Thunderbolt Support	No	No	No	No	Expansion via RAID cabinet	Expansion via RAID cabinet
GPU Dock Support	No	No	No	Optional	Supported	Supported
Cooling Design	Active, efficient air cooling	Active, efficient air cooling	Active, efficient air cooling	Advanced hybrid cooling	Advanced hybrid cooling	High-performance multi-zone cooling

Mid-range models like the CF6 (All-Flash), CF56, and CF56 Pro introduce more performance-oriented features. All three are equipped with the 8-core Intel Core i3-N305 CPU and support up to 64GB DDR5 memory, but differ in storage layout. The CF6 is an all-flash system with six M.2 NVMe SSD slots and no HDD bays, tailored for latency-sensitive applications such as video editing or containerized workloads. The CF56 and CF56 Pro, on the other hand, feature a hybrid design—five 3.5″ HDD bays plus six M.2 SSD slots—offering both capacity and speed. These models also begin to incorporate higher-tier I/O, including 10GbE networking and dual HDMI/DisplayPort outputs.

At the top of the range, the CF1000 model pushes into workstation or rackmount territory with 10 HDD bays and 2 M.2 SSD slots, dual 10GbE ports, and a 12-core/16-thread Intel Core i5-1240P processor. With a 128GB SSD boot drive, up to 64GB DDR5 memory support, and expanded RAID options (including RAID 50/60), the CF1000 is positioned for users requiring serious throughput, redundancy, and application scalability. Across the series, thermal management is maintained through active cooling designs, ensuring stable performance even during sustained workloads.

Orico Cyberdata Vault NAS Software Specifications

All six models in the CyberData Vault lineup operate on CyberData OS, ORICO’s fully self-developed operating system designed for professional-grade data storage and media management. Built around the enterprise-grade ZFS file system, the OS supports features such as inline data integrity verification, native encryption, space-efficient snapshots, and advanced RAID configurations (RAID 0/1/5/6/10 on all models, and RAID 50/60 on the CF1000). The ZFS layer also enables up to a 30% performance boost over EXT4 in typical file access and backup scenarios. Data resilience is central to the platform, with support for deduplication, rollback, and point-in-time recovery, making it suitable for high-stakes environments where data consistency and uptime are critical.

CyberData OS is built with cross-platform compatibility, providing unified access and real-time collaboration between Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and smart TVs. A full set of user and role management tools enables secure file access across teams or departments, while snapshot-based rollback ensures fast recovery from accidental deletions or ransomware incidents. Remote access is handled through P2P networking, allowing seamless file transfers, Office document previews, and collaborative editing, even outside the local network—without compromising on security. The platform also supports one-click file backup and Time Machine integration for macOS, providing tailored backup workflows for both casual and power users.

Beyond core storage functions, the OS serves as a media hub, complete with 4K playback support, automatic movie wall generation, and integration with third-party cloud platforms—allowing users to stream or preview content without full downloads. AI capabilities are deeply embedded, particularly in the CF56 Pro and CF1000, where localized AIGC (AI-generated content) features are available. Users can perform semantic image searches, facial recognition, location-based media filtering, and automatic music/video categorization. These AI tools enhance productivity by minimizing manual sorting and retrieval work in large media libraries.

For developers and power users, the system includes an upgraded FaaS-based Docker environment, allowing microservices deployment, scaling of containerized apps, and remote control of Windows and Linux VMs. Paired with the GPU Dock integration, the NAS can be transformed into a high-performance workstation for offline rendering, design work, or even virtual machine gaming. Additionally, ORICO supports expansion through a Thunderbolt RAID cabinet, offering scalable, high-speed external storage ideal for demanding data workflows or secure long-term backups. Combined, these features elevate CyberData OS from a standard NAS interface to a multi-role private cloud operating environment, capable of adapting to a broad spectrum of home and enterprise tasks.

Who Are Orico?

ORICO Technologies Co., Ltd. is a Shenzhen-based hardware manufacturer known for producing a wide range of consumer and professional-grade storage, connectivity, and power solutions. Established in the early 2000s, ORICO has gained recognition for its extensive portfolio of USB hubs, docking stations, enclosures, and more recently, NAS devices. The company has built its reputation around delivering functional, affordable technology designed for both home and enterprise users, often focusing on modular expandability and compatibility with emerging interface standards like USB4, Thunderbolt, and 10GbE. With the upcoming launch of the CyberData Vault NAS series, ORICO is signaling a shift toward deeper integration of AI, high-performance computing, and enterprise-ready data management—all within a private cloud framework tailored to small teams and professionals looking to move away from subscription-based storage platforms.

The Orico Cyberdata Vault NAS – Price and Release Date

The ORICO CyberData Vault NAS series is expected to launch via Kickstarter in late May to early June, marking the company’s formal entry into the high-performance private cloud storage sector. While final pricing has not yet been confirmed, ORICO aims to offer a competitive tiered structure across the six models, reflecting differences in storage configurations, processing power, and expansion options. Positioned as a direct response to a wave of emerging Chinese NAS alternatives, the CyberData Vault lineup is expected to compete with recent and upcoming releases such as the UGREEN NASync DXP series, the Minisforum N5 Pro, and the Aoostar WTR Max. All of these systems target prosumer and professional users seeking hybrid storage, high-speed connectivity, and non-subscription-based private cloud infrastructure—an increasingly active space that ORICO appears intent on disrupting with its multi-model launch strategy.

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

 

Corsair dévoile le MAKR 75, un clavier gaming barebone qui pourrait bien séduire les passionnés de personnalisation.

Cet article Computex 2025, Corsair dévoile le MAKR 7, un clavier gaming “barebone” a été publié en premier par GinjFo.

Intel profite de l'ouverture du Computex 2025 pour présenter deux nouvelles cartes graphiques pour les professionnels, les Arc Pro B50 et B60

Cet article Computex 2025, Intel dévoile les Arc Pro B50 et B60 a été publié en premier par GinjFo.

Depuis quelques jours, Noctua prépare sa venue au Computex 2025. Le constructeur titille la curiosité de ses fans en évoquant un nouveau produit.  

Cet article Computex 2025 : Noctua sème le mystère autour d’un nouveau système de refroidissement a été publié en premier par GinjFo.

AMD a prévu plusieurs évènements dans les prochaines semaines. Le premier rendez-vous est fixé au 21 mai prochain.

Cet article PC Gaming et carte graphique, AMD donne rendez-vous le 21 mai 2025 a été publié en premier par GinjFo.