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CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS vPro Mobo Review

Par : Rob Andrews
27 décembre 2024 à 18:00

CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS Motherboard Review

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

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

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

CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo Review – Quick Conclusion

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

BUILD QUALITY - 8/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 9/10


8.6
PROS
👍🏻A Gen5 M-ITX NAS Mobo...SOLD!
👍🏻8x SATA Ports (via SFF Fan out x2)
👍🏻Good scope to support 13th Gen and more CPUs
👍🏻3x M.2 at Gen 4x4 (one of the 22110)
👍🏻PCIe 5x16 Slot
👍🏻Excellent USB Outputs
👍🏻Full-Length DIMM Memory Support (i.e more memory possible)
👍🏻Very well priced at just over $200+
CONS
👎🏻CPU Cooler vs Memory slot placement is VERY tight!
👎🏻No pre-bundled (CPU/RAM) options
👎🏻1 PCIe slot (standard M-ITX build) will lead to hard choices about NIC upgrades


Where to Buy a Product
amzamexmaestrovisamaster 24Hfree delreturn VISIT RETAILER ➤ 
amzamexmaestrovisamaster 24Hfree delreturn VISIT RETAILER ➤


CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Design and Build

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Ports and Connectivity

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

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

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

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


CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Storage and Expandability

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

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

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

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

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


CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Performance Potential

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

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

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

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


CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Review Verdict and Conclusion

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

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

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

Where to Buy?

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

 


 

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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
If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a ☕ Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  
 
Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US
    
 
Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

☕ WE LOVE COFFEE ☕

 

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

Par : Rob Andrews
20 décembre 2024 à 18:00

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

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

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

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

 


Where to Buy the 10GbE N300/N305 NAS MoBo?
  • Aliexpress $138.96 (N100 10GbE, No Memory or SSD) – HERE
  • Aliexpress $214.99 (N300 10GbE, 8GB Memory, 128GB OS SSD) – HERE
  • Check Amazon HERE

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

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

BUILD QUALITY - 8/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 10/10
VALUE - 9/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻Affordable price for an ITX motherboard with 10GbE networking capabilities.
👍🏻Built-in 10GbE port (Marvell AQC113C) and dual 2.5GbE ports (Intel i226-V) for versatile networking options.
👍🏻Low power consumption (6W TDP for CPU), suitable for continuous 24/7 operation.
👍🏻Six SATA 3.0 ports and two M.2 NVMe slots, providing flexible storage configuration options.
👍🏻Compact form factor, making it ideal for small NAS builds and limited-space installations.
👍🏻Supports up to 32GB of DDR5 memory, which is adequate for general NAS use.
👍🏻Low heat output with stable thermal performance, reducing the need for extensive cooling.
👍🏻User-friendly BIOS with customization options for PCI and USB settings.
CONS
👎🏻No PCIe slot, limiting expansion options for additional hardware like GPUs or other high-speed components.
👎🏻Lacks ECC memory support, which is often preferred in NAS setups for data integrity.
👎🏻M.2 slots are limited to PCIe Gen 3 x1 lanes, restricting maximum speed for high-performance applications.
👎🏻Requires a 300W power supply despite low power demands, adding potential extra cost and size requirements.


Where to Buy a Product
amzamexmaestrovisamaster 24Hfree delreturn VISIT RETAILER ➤ 
amzamexmaestrovisamaster 24Hfree delreturn VISIT RETAILER ➤


N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Design and Build Quality

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

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

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

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

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

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


N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Processor and Performance

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

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

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

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

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


M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Ports and Connections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


M-ITX NAS Motherboard – Storage Capabilities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


The N305 10GbE Motherboard – Should You Buy It?

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

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

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

 

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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
If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a ☕ Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  
 
Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US
    
 
Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

☕ WE LOVE COFFEE ☕

 
❌
❌