Razer sent me a pre-production sample of the redesigned Razer Blade 14, and I've spent a few hours to see if this may be one of 2025's best 14-inch gaming laptops.

© Windows Central | Zachary Boddy

There's a new black screen bug affecting RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti GPUs, but NVIDIA has taken the initiative by explaining and, more importantly, offering a fix.

© Getty Images |PonyWang

The new Surface Pro is an obvious direct competitor to Apple's iPad Air. It is roughly the same price, similar in size and design, and better emphasized as a tablet rather than a laptop.

© Future | Daniel Rubino

Qualcomm's next-gen Snapdragon X chips are on the way. However, it doesn't look like we'll get an unveil until October 2025, pointing to a 2026 launch.

© Qualcomm | Future

AMD's Ryzen 9 7900X is one of Team Red's most powerful CPUs for gaming and work, and it's now down to $325 today only. A 1TB SSD is included for free.

© AMD | Future

Free displays seem to be the biggest deal on Memorial Day, with LG giving away a QHD 180Hz monitor when you buy its discounted OLED beauty.

© LG | Future

HP's OmniBook 5 Flip is a great little 14-inch convertible PC for productivity, streaming, and homework. This Memorial Day sale knocks off $350.

© HP | Future

NVIDIA's RTX 4060 Laptop GPU just took over the top spot as most popular for PC gamers, and you can now pick up the MSI Thin with the card inside for just $705.

© Future | MSI

Synology (Finally) Reveals Managed PoE 10GbE Switches – The PS Series

At Computex 2025, Synology formally unveiled its new PS Series of PoE switches—marking the company’s first venture into dedicated network switching hardware. Designed specifically for surveillance environments, these switches are not meant to replace general-purpose managed switches, but rather to complement Synology’s Surveillance Station ecosystem. The lineup includes three models: the high-capacity PS2600+, the compact PS1000+, and the entry-level PS500. Each model is tailored for powering PoE cameras and streamlining IP surveillance setups, with features like centralized control through Surveillance Station and fanless operation. While this launch addresses a long-standing gap in Synology’s ecosystem, it is clear that these devices are intended for a niche surveillance role rather than enterprise-wide or enthusiast-grade switching solutions.

Why is a Synology Switch so Highly Demanded? And Why is This Not Quite What Everyone Wanted?

For years, users of Synology’s NAS and surveillance solutions have speculated about the company expanding into networking hardware, particularly switches. Given Synology’s existing ecosystem of NAS units, cameras, routers, and software like Surveillance Station and SRM, a managed PoE switch seemed like the logical next step to unify its offerings under a single, tightly integrated platform. Many envisioned a Synology switch that could serve not just surveillance but also general-purpose networking, VLAN management, and broader SMB/enterprise deployments—effectively competing with established names like Ubiquiti, Netgear, or QNAP.

However, the PS Series unveiled at Computex 2025 diverges from that expectation. The PS2600+ and PS1000+ are exclusively intended for use with Synology’s Surveillance Station, lacking broader Layer 3 management tools outside of this context. Meanwhile, the PS500 is a basic, unmanaged unit aimed more at simple deployments than network optimization. There are no bundled camera licenses, limited software extensibility, and no SRM integration. As a result, while these switches will likely appeal to users looking for a seamless Synology surveillance setup, they fall short of the more versatile, all-encompassing switch that many long-time Synology users were hoping for.

Synology PS2600+ 26 Port L2+ Managed PoE Switch

The PS2600+ is the flagship switch in Synology’s new lineup, featuring 24 PoE+ ports and 2 additional 10GbE SFP+ uplink ports. Designed for rackmount or desktop use, the PS2600+ is completely fanless, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It delivers a total PoE power budget of 185W, allowing it to power multiple IP cameras, particularly in larger surveillance setups. It is fully managed and integrates directly with Synology’s Surveillance Station for centralized control, including power management, port diagnostics, and network topology mapping.

In terms of network performance, the PS2600+ offers a switching bandwidth of 88 Gbps and a forwarding rate of 65.47 Mpps. It supports Layer 2+ features, including inter-VLAN routing and DHCP server capabilities, allowing it to segment and route traffic in more complex surveillance deployments. However, its software integration is limited exclusively to Surveillance Station, and it lacks any compatibility with Synology’s SRM (Router OS) or general-purpose network management tools. It is best suited for installations where the switch, NAS, and cameras are all part of a single, unified Synology surveillance environment.

---

Synology PS500 5 Port Unmanaged PoE Switch

The PS500 is the most basic model in Synology’s PS Series and is designed primarily for entry-level surveillance setups. It offers a total of five ports, four of which support PoE+ for powering IP cameras or other devices. Unlike the other models, the PS500 is completely unmanaged—there is no software-based configuration, no VLAN support, and no integration with Surveillance Station CMS. It is intended for plug-and-play functionality, making it suitable for simple installations where centralized management is not required.

Despite its simplicity, the PS500 still delivers up to 60W of total PoE power and supports jumbo frames up to 9000 bytes. It is passively cooled and uses an external power supply, emphasizing its role as a compact, low-maintenance switch for desktop or wall-mounted deployments. While it doesn’t offer the flexibility or control of the PS2600+ or PS1000+, it fills a gap for users seeking a straightforward power delivery solution for small-scale IP camera installations.

---

Synology PS1000+ 10 Port L2+ Managed PoE Switch

The PS1000+ serves as the mid-range offering in Synology’s PS Series, targeting smaller surveillance deployments that still benefit from centralized management. It includes 8 PoE+ RJ45 ports and 2 standard 1GbE SFP ports for uplink or fiber connectivity. Like the PS2600+, this model is fanless and supports both rackmount and desktop installations. It offers a total PoE power budget of 65W, which is sufficient for a modest number of IP cameras or access points in home or SMB setups.

From a network performance standpoint, the PS1000+ provides 20 Gbps of switching bandwidth and a forwarding rate of 14.88 Mpps. It also supports VLANs, static routing, and DHCP services, and is managed entirely through Synology’s Surveillance Station interface. Its role is clearly focused—bridging NAS units and IP cameras under one platform, without offering broader Layer 3 functionality or third-party network integration. For users with Synology NAS-based NVR setups and fewer cameras, the PS1000+ provides a compact, low-noise, managed switch option.

---

Synology PS Series Switches, Conclusion and Verdict

Synology’s entry into the network switch market with the PS Series marks a significant, though narrowly focused, expansion of its surveillance ecosystem. These switches are clearly designed with Surveillance Station users in mind, offering streamlined power and network management for PoE camera deployments. While the PS2600+ and PS1000+ provide useful managed features for larger and mid-sized surveillance environments, and the PS500 delivers a simple plug-and-play option, none of these models address general networking needs outside of Synology’s surveillance scope. For those seeking a unified Synology environment for NVR deployments, these switches may be a welcome addition—but broader adoption will likely remain limited until Synology delivers more versatile, multi-role networking solutions.

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

 

The HP OMEN MAX 16 (2025) is the most powerful gaming laptop HP has ever released, and it goes against the most premium laptops on the market. Does it succeed?

© Windows Central | Zachary Boddy

Lenovo's refreshed Yoga Book 9i (Gen 10) just showed up on my doorstep. I'm giving it a full review, but first, a hands-on look at the dual OLED displays.

© Future

The Beelink EQI12 is a fantastic little computer that can handle your work, school, or home workloads with ease. Right now, it's very affordable while this Memorial Day deal lasts.

© Windows Central / Beelink

TB5 M.2 NVMe Pegasus5 from Promise Revealed

At Computex 2025 in Taipei, PROMISE Technology introduced the Pegasus5 M8, an NVMe-based RAID storage system built around Intel’s Thunderbolt 5 interface. This new addition to the Pegasus5 product line focuses on delivering high-throughput, low-latency performance in a compact form factor tailored for professionals working with data-heavy content. Thunderbolt 5 provides a significant increase in bandwidth compared to previous generations, supporting up to 80 Gbps combined data and video transfer, which the M8 leverages for intensive media workflows. The M8 was presented as part of PROMISE’s wider strategy to address evolving demands in high-resolution video production, AI-assisted processing, and portable high-speed storage. Its debut follows the earlier launch of the Pegasus5 R12 and R12 Pro, which introduced 12-bay and hybrid HDD/SSD tower configurations with RAID capabilities, aimed at larger-scale desktop storage environments.

Promise Pegasus5 M8 Hardware Specifications

The Pegasus5 M8 is a compact, all-flash 8-bay direct-attached storage (DAS) system that exclusively supports M.2 NVMe SSDs. It accommodates both standard 2280-length SSDs and 1.5-inch variants, allowing flexibility in selecting drives based on capacity, endurance, or thermal profile. The system supports a mix of TLC-based drives for high performance and QLC-based drives for increased capacity per dollar, giving users the option to tailor the configuration toward speed, cost-efficiency, or a balance of both. Each M.2 slot is connected via a high-speed PCIe backplane, allowing maximum parallel bandwidth to the controller for simultaneous multi-drive operations.

Specification	Details
Form Factor	8-Bay Portable NVMe Storage System
Drive Support	8 × M.2 NVMe SSD (2280 and 1.5-inch supported)
Interface	Thunderbolt 5 (up to 80 Gbps combined bandwidth)
Maximum Throughput	Up to 6,000 MB/s
RAID Support	RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60
RAID Engine	PROMISE PromiseRAID with NVMeBoost acceleration
Management Software	PROMISE Utility Pro (macOS and Windows compatible)
Power Delivery	Up to 140W passthrough charging (depends on host capabilities)
Display Support	Dual 6K or single 8K monitor via Thunderbolt 5 DisplayPort tunneling
Thermal Management	Intelligent fan control, internal heat dissipation with SSD thermal pads
Power Supply	Internal, 100–240V AC, 50–60Hz
Compatibility	macOS 13 and above, Windows 10 and later
Dimensions	Not officially disclosed (compact/portable class)
Certifications	RoHS, ErP compliant

The system’s core connectivity is provided by Thunderbolt 5, which doubles the baseline throughput of Thunderbolt 4. In standard mode, it offers 40 Gbps bidirectional data bandwidth, while the Bandwidth Boost mode enables a combined total of up to 80 Gbps for asymmetric workloads—ideal for video-heavy pipelines. In addition to raw data throughput, Thunderbolt 5 also provides support for DisplayPort tunneling, enabling the M8 to drive external monitors (up to dual 6K or a single 8K display) through the same interface used for data. Furthermore, the port delivers significantly enhanced power, with the system supporting passthrough charging of up to 140W, subject to host-side capabilities and cable specification.

Internally, the M8 leverages PROMISE’s NVMeBoost and PromiseRAID technologies for RAID management, data acceleration, and system diagnostics. RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60 are supported across the full NVMe SSD array, providing a wide range of redundancy and performance configurations. PromiseRAID includes advanced features such as Predictive Data Migration (PDM), which periodically checks drive health using SMART telemetry and reallocates data proactively in the event of early failure indicators. This is paired with real-time monitoring, automatic rebuild processes, and background consistency checks—all accessible via the PROMISE Utility Pro software.

From a thermal and acoustic perspective, the M8 is designed with intelligent fan control that dynamically adjusts based on system temperature, minimizing noise during idle or low-load periods. The chassis incorporates airflow paths optimized for side-to-side or front-to-back movement depending on orientation, and thermal pads are used to dissipate heat from the M.2 SSDs to internal heatsinks. The power supply is internal, auto-switching between 100–240V AC, and the unit includes power-saving features such as host-synced sleep/wake, contributing to energy efficiency in extended deployment. The system is compatible with macOS 13 and later as well as Windows 11.

In the context of the PROMISE Pegasus5 series, particularly models like the R12 and M8 that utilize Thunderbolt 4 and 5, it’s important to distinguish between upstream and downstream ports as they serve different roles in device connectivity. The upstream port on a Pegasus5 system is used to connect the storage unit to the host computer—typically a Mac or Windows workstation. This is the primary data pathway through which the system is controlled, data is read and written, and device management is executed.

The downstream port, by contrast, enables daisy-chaining or peripheral expansion from the Pegasus unit to additional Thunderbolt or USB-C devices. This could include external monitors, additional storage devices, or other Thunderbolt peripherals. On Thunderbolt 4-enabled systems like the Pegasus5 R12, the downstream port supports dual 4K or a single 8K monitor, allowing it to act as both a storage device and a hub for display and accessory connectivity. On Thunderbolt 5 systems like the M8 or R12 Pro, this downstream capability is expanded further, supporting higher display resolutions and bandwidth-intensive devices without reducing data throughput to the storage array. This separation ensures consistent storage performance even when other peripherals are in use.

Promise Pegasus5 R12 and R12 Pro Specifications

The Pegasus5 R12 and R12 Pro are tower-based storage systems designed primarily for desktop environments where higher raw capacity and mixed-drive support are required. The standard R12 model features 12 bays for 3.5-inch SATA HDDs, supporting up to 288TB using 24TB drives. It connects via Thunderbolt 4 and provides sequential performance of up to 3,000 MB/s. The unit includes dual Thunderbolt 4 ports—one upstream and one downstream—supporting daisy-chaining and external display connectivity. Internally, it runs on a quad-core 2.2 GHz storage processor with 8GB of DDR4 ECC memory, and supports a wide range of RAID levels including 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, with optional hot spare functionality. Like the M8, it is managed via PROMISE Utility Pro and includes support for Predictive Data Migration.

Specification	Pegasus5 R12	Pegasus5 R12 Pro
Form Factor	12-Bay Tower	12 + 4-Bay Hybrid Tower
Drive Support	12 × 3.5″ SATA HDD	12 × 3.5″ SATA HDD + 4 × M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
Max Capacity	Up to 288TB (12 × 24TB)	288TB HDD + 32TB NVMe SSD (4 × 8TB)
Interface	Thunderbolt 4 (40 Gbps), USB4 compatible	Thunderbolt 5 (up to 80 Gbps), USB4 compatible
Maximum Throughput	Up to 3,000 MB/s	Up to 6,000 MB/s
RAID Support	RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60	RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, 50 (NVMe), full RAID for HDD
RAID Engine	PromiseRAID	PromiseRAID with NVMe RAID support
Processor	Storage Processor, 4-core, 2.2 GHz	Same
Memory	8GB DDR4 ECC DIMM	Same
Display Support	One downstream Thunderbolt 4 port (dual 4K or single 8K monitor)	Thunderbolt 5 display tunneling for multiple 6K/8K monitors
Power Delivery	Up to 85W (Thunderbolt/USB4 host)	Up to 140W passthrough charging (host dependent)
Management Software	PROMISE Utility Pro	Same
Operating Systems	macOS 13 and above, Windows 10 or later	Same
Hot Swap / Hot Spare	Supported	Supported
Smart Features	Predictive Data Migration, SMART polling, Intelligent cooling	Same
Dimensions (mm)	318 x 227 x 227	Same
Weight	15.5 kg	Slightly higher (exact value not disclosed)
Power Supply	AC 100–240V, 350W	Same
Certifications	EMC: FCC, CE; Safety: cTUVus, CB; RoHS, ErP	Same

The R12 Pro builds upon this foundation by introducing a hybrid 12+4 bay architecture—adding four M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots alongside the 12 standard HDD bays. This hybrid layout enables users to implement NVMe-based caching or tiered storage to accelerate performance-critical operations while retaining the high capacity of mechanical storage. The R12 Pro is equipped with Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, offering a data rate of up to 6,000 MB/s and compatibility with advanced display and charging protocols. RAID support is extended to NVMe drives, allowing configurations such as RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and 50 across the SSD layer. The system retains the same internal architecture and management tools as the standard R12 but introduces higher thermal demands and greater performance headroom due to its dual-media architecture.

Who are the Promise Pegasus5 M8, R12 and R12 Pro For?

The Pegasus5 M8, R12, and R12 Pro are each designed to address distinct storage requirements, aligning with varying workflows and user priorities. The M8 is suited for professionals who require high-speed NVMe performance in a compact and portable form factor. Its use of Thunderbolt 5 and full NVMe support makes it particularly effective for high-resolution video editing (4K to 8K), real-time AI model training, and mobile post-production environments. Its small footprint and low-noise design further enhance its usability for users who operate in constrained or shared workspaces, or who regularly travel with their equipment.

The R12 and R12 Pro are more appropriate for stationary, high-capacity storage needs. The R12, with its 12-bay HDD configuration, supports large media libraries and backup repositories, making it suitable for long-term storage in editing suites or enterprise archive setups. The R12 Pro extends this by incorporating NVMe SSD support alongside HDDs, offering tiered storage capabilities that appeal to users who require a balance between high throughput and large volume. This model is targeted at studios or teams managing high-bandwidth workflows such as multi-stream video processing, where simultaneous access to cached and archival data is necessary.

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

 

Amazon loves to throw a deals event, and of course, it's getting in on Memorial Day weekend. But the best deals I've spotted so far aren't from Amazon.

© Future | HP | MSI | Samsung

Memorial Day isn't supposed to be about deals, but that isn't stopping major retailers from slashing prices. I found the best discounts on RTX gaming laptops.

© Future | HP | MSI

Synology Launches RS2825RP+ RackStation NAS for Business Deployments

As Synology continue its large-scale refresh of its solution portfolio, it is finally time to start talking about rackmount solutions! Although many were waiting on the RS1225+, it looks like the brand wants to ‘go big’ with the Synology RS2825RP+ 16 Bay, expandable 10GbE equipped and 25G Ready server solution. Arriving in the PLUS series, and therefore subject to the recent hardline storage media verification changes made by the brand for the 2025 series and onwards, the RS2825RP+ is clearly a very, very different solution and therefore perhaps reaching a target audience who are more receptive to it (maybe). Synology have a phenomenal history when it comes to their rackmount series – for many years it was just the rackstation series – but eventually we saw the UC, SA, FS and XS arrives.. which in turn is now rolling towards the enterprise challengers such as the Active Protect DP devices, the Gridstation (GS) devices and even a long desired and promised NVMe Flash series (the PAS range). So, PLUS series devices like the RS2825RP+ are occupying an increasingly squeezed area of the portfolio where buyers want comparatively affordable, scalable and capable storage. The changes by the brand on drive media support and verification do undercut this somewhat, so with that in mind, what has this new 3U Rackmount got to offer you in 2025 that makes it deserved your money and your data?

The Synology RS2825RP+ is equipped with an AMD Ryzen V1780B processor, offering a quad-core architecture with base and boost clocks of 3.35 GHz and 3.6 GHz, respectively. Designed for enterprise-grade workloads, the system includes 8 GB of ECC DDR4 memory in a single module configuration, which can be expanded up to 32 GB via two available slots. The rackmount chassis conforms to a 3U form factor and houses 16 front-accessible drive bays, supporting both 3.5” and 2.5” SATA formats. Networking capabilities include dual 1GbE ports and a single 10GbE port for high-speed data transfer, with a PCIe Gen3 slot offering further upgrade flexibility for additional NICs or storage controllers. According to Synology’s internal benchmarks, the unit delivers up to 3,519 MB/s sequential read and 1,790 MB/s write performance, which is suitable for multi-user environments requiring fast data access and sharing.

Engineered for sustained operation in business-critical environments, the RS2825RP+ incorporates three hot-swappable fans for effective airflow and dual redundant power supplies to mitigate downtime during hardware failures. The hot-swappable drive trays support online volume management, allowing for drive replacement or expansion without system shutdown. The power input is adaptable across 100–240V AC ranges, ensuring compatibility with global power standards. The system is further enhanced by a dedicated hardware encryption engine, allowing encrypted data processing without heavily impacting performance, making it practical for organizations handling sensitive or regulated data.

On the software side, the RS2825RP+ runs Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM), which supports a wide suite of data protection, business productivity, and infrastructure management applications. Included without additional licensing are tools such as Synology High Availability, which enables failover between identical units to ensure service continuity, and Snapshot Replication, which offers near-instantaneous recovery points for shared folders and LUNs. Hyper Backup extends protection to remote servers and public clouds with features like deduplication, data integrity verification, and multi-versioned backup scheduling. For IT environments reliant on virtualization, DSM integrates natively with VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Citrix, and OpenStack, with support for VMware VAAI and Windows ODX to offload and streamline storage operations.

Beyond infrastructure, DSM also serves as a collaboration platform. Synology Drive allows for real-time file synchronization across Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms, with granular permissions for enterprise-grade file governance. Users can collaborate using Synology Office, which provides a shared workspace for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with unlimited versioning and cross-format compatibility. Communication features such as Synology Chat and Calendar are included, supporting encrypted messaging and team scheduling. Hybrid Share, an optional feature, combines on-premise access speed with cloud-based scalability, enabling multi-site deployments to efficiently manage shared files with a single global namespace.

The RS2825RP+ supports a maximum of 28 drives when paired with the RX1225RP expansion unit, enabling up to 560 TB of raw storage using currently available 20 TB drives. Storage flexibility is provided through support for Btrfs on internal volumes and a range of file systems on external devices. Multiple RAID configurations are available, including Synology Hybrid RAID, Basic, JBOD, and traditional RAID levels 0 through 10. SSD caching is supported via both SATA and M.2 NVMe SSDs, the latter requiring optional expansion cards. Volume sizes up to 200 TB are supported, although configurations exceeding 108 TB require the system to be upgraded to 32 GB of RAM, ensuring memory availability for managing large metadata and file tables.

A key constraint with the RS2825RP+ is Synology’s enforcement of verified drive compatibility. At the time of release, the system only allows initialization and full access to features when Synology-branded drives or those listed on its official compatibility list are installed. This closed ecosystem policy may limit adoption among users seeking to repurpose third-party or existing storage media. The restriction also affects advanced features such as SSD caching, drive health monitoring, and hybrid volume configurations, which are tied to Synology’s drive firmware and integration layers. The Synology RS2825RP+ offers a balanced mix of compute power, storage expandability, and data protection features suitable for centralized IT infrastructure in small to medium-sized businesses. Its high-speed throughput, enterprise-grade software suite, and support for virtualization and surveillance make it versatile for multiple deployment scenarios. However, organizations considering this model should weigh the implications of Synology’s drive compatibility enforcement against their existing hardware procurement policies.

Synology RS2825RP+ vs RS2821RP+ – A Significant Upgrade?

he RS2825RP+ is expected to replace the older RS2821RP+ in Synology’s 16-bay rackmount NAS lineup, and while both systems share the same 3U chassis size, drive bay count, and expansion support up to 28 bays, they diverge significantly in internal hardware. The newer model features a faster AMD Ryzen V1780B CPU with a higher base clock of 3.35 GHz (vs 2.2 GHz in the V1500B), along with 8 GB of ECC DDR4 memory pre-installed—double that of the RS2821RP+. The RS2825RP+ also includes a 10GbE port by default, something absent from the RS2821RP+, which instead comes with four 1GbE ports. While both models support PCIe expansion, the RS2825RP+ uses a newer generation processor with improved encryption offloading and virtualization potential, better suited to modern business applications with higher throughput demands.

However, the RS2821RP+ offers greater flexibility in terms of supported drive media. Although Synology recommends its own branded drives for this unit, it does not enforce the same strict hardware lock-in seen on the RS2825RP+. Users of the RS2821RP+ can utilize a broader range of 2.5” and 3.5” SATA HDDs and SSDs, including many from third-party vendors, without encountering initialization blocks or feature restrictions. This openness makes the RS2821RP+ a more attractive option for businesses with existing storage investments or those who prioritize long-term cost control and vendor neutrality. By contrast, the RS2825RP+ requires verified drives at launch, which restricts hardware reusability and may increase TCO for those transitioning from legacy systems.

When Will the Synology RS2825RP+ Be Released and the Price?

Ultimately, the RS2825RP+ represents a forward step in terms of raw performance and integrated networking capabilities, aligning with Synology’s broader push toward all-in-one systems with deeper integration and control. But that progress comes at the cost of flexibility, particularly in storage media compatibility. The RS2821RP+ may remain relevant for users seeking broader hardware compatibility, even as the RS2825RP+ replaces it in the official portfolio. Buyers will need to weigh the advantages of newer hardware against the limitations introduced by Synology’s tighter ecosystem approach.

All shared information online and inadvertent slips on the RS2825RP+ appear to indicate that the RS2825RP+ will arrive at a similar price point to it’s predecessor at around $3000-3499, and launching earlier in the eastern regions, but eventually rolling out globally in June.

Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology RS2825RP+ NAS

Check B&H for the Synology RS2825RP+ NAS

Check AliExpress for the Synology RS2825RP+ 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

 

If there's an affordable CPU I'd recommend every PC gamer get, it's the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. It just hit a new low for 2025 at Amazon as part of the Memorial Day deals event.

© AMD | Future

AMD revealed its mid-range Radeon RX 9060 XT GPUs at Computex 2025, taking a page from NVIDIA's playbook and completely avoiding mention of the 8GB model.

© Future | NVIDIA | AMD | ASUS

Synology DS425+ NAS Revealed

The Synology DS425+ arrives as part of the company’s 2025 refresh of its popular DiskStation NAS lineup, positioned as a 4-bay solution for prosumers, content creators, and small business users who demand reliable private cloud functionality, media handling, and data protection tools—all in a desktop-friendly chassis. Succeeding the widely adopted DS423+, the DS425+ builds upon the same Intel Celeron J4125 architecture but introduces upgraded network connectivity and improved support for SSD caching, aiming to enhance performance across daily operations like file synchronization, multimedia streaming, collaborative document editing, and surveillance management. Running the latest version of DiskStation Manager (DSM), the DS425+ leverages Synology’s full ecosystem of services, including Synology Drive, Active Backup Suite, Surveillance Station, and Synology Photos. With this release, Synology is also doubling down on its strict hardware compatibility enforcement, limiting drive support to Synology-verified models only—a shift that may influence buyers with preexisting storage investments. Even so, the DS425+ offers a compact yet powerful platform for centralized storage, hybrid cloud collaboration, and secure file access from anywhere.

Synology DS425+ Hardware Specifications

At the heart of the Synology DS425+ is the same Intel Celeron J4125 processor seen in the DS423+—a quad-core, Gemini Lake-based chip with a base clock of 2.0 GHz and a burst frequency of 2.7 GHz. While this CPU has proven competent for basic NAS operations like SMB file serving, lightweight multimedia indexing, and DSM’s collaborative apps, its inclusion in a 2025 NAS release feels increasingly outdated. The J4125 first launched in 2019, and although its low power consumption and integrated hardware encryption engine remain attractive for entry-tier devices, it’s now noticeably behind in areas like video transcoding, AI-assisted tasks, and virtualization performance. For example, when running more demanding DSM features such as Surveillance Station with high-resolution streams, or multiple simultaneous file indexing operations via Synology Photos and Drive, this processor can quickly become a limiting factor, especially in multi-user environments.

Memory configuration hasn’t changed either, with the DS425+ shipping with 2 GB of DDR4 non-ECC RAM soldered to the board and a single expansion slot allowing upgrades to a maximum of 6 GB. This is a practical ceiling for general use—enough to handle several DSM packages like Synology Office, Drive, or Hyper Backup simultaneously—but it’s insufficient for users looking to run dockerized apps, virtual DSM instances, or advanced services such as Synology MailPlus in a more scalable manner. The non-ECC nature of the RAM also weakens the case for this NAS as a long-term professional solution, especially when handling sensitive or mission-critical workloads.

Networking is where the DS425+ makes a partial step forward, but not without caveats. It features a single 2.5GbE LAN port alongside a 1GbE port—an improvement over the dual 1GbE design of the DS423+—but a closer look reveals an intentional limitation. Unlike many other brands that now offer dual 2.5GbE ports for link aggregation or seamless failover at full speed, Synology’s decision to pair a 2.5GbE with a 1GbE appears less about cost or chipset restrictions and more about product segmentation. This asymmetric port setup discourages buyers from choosing the DS425+ over higher-tier units like the DS925+, which offers more symmetrical bandwidth and better expansion paths. From a hardware standpoint, there is no compelling technical reason this device couldn’t have included dual 2.5GbE—especially given its target audience of small business and prosumer users with growing data needs.

Storage connectivity fares better. The DS425+ supports four hot-swappable 3.5″/2.5″ SATA drives and adds two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for cache acceleration—valuable for improving read/write IOPS, especially in workloads like media library scanning in Synology Photos or large document syncing in Synology Drive. These M.2 slots do not consume the main drive bays, preserving all four bays for primary storage—a practical advantage for users looking to maintain high capacity while improving responsiveness. However, it’s important to note that, per Synology’s 2025 compatibility policy, only Synology-branded SSDs (such as the SNV3400 series) can be used for either cache or storage pool creation, cutting out a wide array of affordable third-party options.

In terms of design, the DS425+ remains compact and energy-efficient, measuring 166 × 199 × 223 mm and weighing 2.18 kg. It uses two 92mm fans for active cooling, and power usage is modest—28.3W under load and just 8.45W in disk hibernation. Two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports are available for external drive backups or peripheral support, and the unit is shipped with two RJ-45 cables, a power supply, and a 3-year warranty (extendable to 5 years in some regions). But while the physical build quality is solid, many of the internal hardware choices feel driven more by Synology’s desire to maintain product hierarchy than by a desire to fully meet evolving user needs in this segment.

Synology DS425+ vs DS423+ NAS – Much of an Upgrade?

On paper, the DS425+ and DS423+ appear remarkably similar—so much so that many users might question whether the DS425+ is a true generational upgrade. Both models use the same Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor, support up to 6 GB of non-ECC DDR4 memory, and house four 3.5″/2.5″ SATA bays alongside dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots. The physical dimensions, weight, fan configuration, and even the power draw figures are virtually identical. For many core use cases—such as basic file storage, Synology Drive collaboration, and multimedia backups via Hyper Backup—the user experience will feel nearly the same. This makes the DS425+ look more like a platform refresh than a reinvention.

However, the key differences lie in network connectivity and platform intent. The DS423+ features dual 1GbE ports with support for link aggregation or failover, while the DS425+ trades this for a mix of one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port. While this technically increases the potential maximum throughput to 2.5Gbps, this hybrid setup seems designed to offer “just enough” improvement to distinguish the DS425+ without cannibalizing interest in higher-tier systems like the DS925+. For users with modern 2.5GbE switches, the DS425+ will offer a slightly snappier file access and faster backups—particularly when working with large media libraries or high-frequency synchronization tasks in Synology Photos or Drive. But those with symmetrical link aggregation setups may find the port layout frustratingly limiting.

Another critical shift is in Synology’s approach to drive compatibility. The DS423+—like most NAS units in the 2020–2023 era—offered relatively open support for third-party HDDs and SSDs, including Seagate IronWolf, WD Red, and enterprise-class models. Users would receive warnings when using non-verified drives, but DSM remained fully functional. In contrast, the DS425+ adopts the same restrictive policy seen in all 2025 Synology NAS systems, outright blocking DSM installation and pool creation with unverified hard drives or NVMe SSDs.

This has broad implications for cost-conscious users or those migrating from older Synology NAS units, as they may find that previously functional media is now flagged and unusable. Even within Synology’s own ecosystem, only select SKUs (e.g., HAT3300, HAT5300, SAT5200, SNV3400) are accepted without persistent alerts or functionality restrictions. While this change may support long-term system stability and vendor accountability, it narrows the appeal of the DS425+ as a flexible, user-driven NAS appliance.

Ultimately, the DS425+ is one of the smallest refresh/upgrades over the DS423+, largely just in its added 2.5GbE port. But for users already operating a DS423+, the performance incentives to upgrade are limited—unless specific use cases demand faster network throughput or tighter integration with Synology’s enterprise-leaning ecosystem. For first-time buyers, the DS425+ makes more sense if you are already choosing only the media the brand recommends and want a relatively low-noise, compact NAS with good multi-user potential, cloud tools, and basic virtualization support.

Synology DS425+ NAS – Software and Services

The DS425+ runs Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM), one of the most polished NAS operating systems available today, offering a blend of enterprise-level tools and consumer-friendly accessibility. Users can configure the device as a centralized file server, hybrid cloud gateway, backup vault, media hub, or private collaboration platform—all from within an intuitive web-based interface.

The system supports the Btrfs file system, enabling advanced data protection features such as file self-healing, quota management, and snapshot replication. With support for up to 256 system-wide snapshots and 128 per shared folder, users can roll back accidental deletions or ransomware-damaged data in seconds. Synology’s Hybrid Share also allows users to extend storage capacity to the cloud with on-demand file streaming and local caching, balancing scalability with local performance.

Collaboration is another strong point of the DSM ecosystem. Synology Drive provides a private alternative to Google Drive or Dropbox, enabling real-time file synchronization across devices and platforms, with versioning, sharing permissions, and browser-based access. Integrated with Synology Office, users can collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with password protection and revision tracking.

These tools perform well even with modest hardware like the DS425+, and are ideal for distributed teams or remote workers. For communication, Synology Chat brings secure instant messaging with support for encrypted channels and message retention policies, while Synology MailPlus offers a fully-fledged private email server with support for up to 20 users (5 licenses included). These services transform the DS425+ from a simple storage box into a multi-role productivity appliance.

Synology also continues to invest in security and monitoring, with DSM 7.2+ adding features like Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (AMFA), which intelligently triggers additional login requirements based on user behavior and access patterns. Admins can leverage Active Insight, Synology’s cloud-based fleet monitoring system, to detect threats and performance anomalies across multiple NAS units, and even enforce policy-based snapshot creation during suspicious activity. For those managing backups, Synology’s Active Backup Suite covers Windows, Linux, VMware, Hyper-V, and Microsoft 365/Google Workspace, while Hyper Backup supports encrypted, deduplicated, multi-destination backups to local disks, other NAS units, or Synology’s C2 Storage cloud. Surveillance Station also comes bundled with two free IP camera licenses, and can support up to 40 H.265 1080p streams simultaneously—ideal for small-scale CCTV installations that want private, license-free storage.

Synology DS425+ NAS – Price and Release Date

The Synology DS425+ is scheduled to launch globally in June 2025, following an earlier rollout across Eastern markets beginning in the second half of May 2025. Based on its positioning and minimal hardware changes from the DS423+, it is expected to arrive with a similar MSRP in the range of $449 to $499 USD. This pricing places it firmly in the upper-middle segment of Synology’s 4-bay lineup, targeting users who need more performance and features than entry-level models offer, but without the broader expansion and higher price tags of units like the DS923+ or DS925+. However, with the inclusion of the new restrictive drive compatibility policy, buyers will need to factor in the additional cost of Synology-verified HDDs or SSDs, which could notably increase the total cost of ownership compared to similarly priced NAS systems that support a wider range of drives.

Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS425+ NAS

Check B&H for the Synology DS425+ 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