Is Synology Moving Away From Routers?

Synology is still best known for NAS hardware, DSM, backup software, private cloud storage, surveillance, and business data management, but its router range has always been an interesting side branch of the wider ecosystem and one that I have genuinely enjoyed reviewing. Products such as the RT2600ac, MR2200ac, WRX560 and RT6600ax appealed to users who liked the Synology software experience and wanted a router interface that felt closer to DSM than the usual consumer router web panel. SRM, or Synology Router Manager, gave users features such as Safe Access, Threat Prevention, VPN tools, mesh support, VLANs, firewall controls and relatively clean network management. For a while, that made Synology routers a sensible option for home users, families, home offices and smaller businesses that wanted more control without stepping fully into UniFi, MikroTik, pfSense or enterprise networking territory. However, with rising competitive options from UniFi that also raise the bar for hardware/software expectations AND troubling performance/stability reports appearing online by users, multiple times I have been asked by users “are Synology giving up on routers?”.

If it were just my own idle thoughts on the subject, I would not have made this article, but recently there has been a spate of posts online (several linked below) on this subject that range from references to unconfirmed conversations with Synology saying the router range is canned, to deeper discussions online about the performance of SRM (Synology router Manager) on the modestly powered current range of routers the brand offers:

Recent Synology Reddit Posts for Example: Some questions about switching to a Synology router – HERE Synology WRX560 — 75-day formal complaint, RAM deficit confirmed by Synology’s own data. Full timeline, evidence, and statutory route taken – HERE Synology Router family? – HERE Synology Exiting Router Market… Now What – HERE

In 2026, the question being asked by parts of the Synology community is whether the router range still has a meaningful future. This does not come from an official Synology statement saying the range is discontinued (and I can confirm that no-one at Synology has ever stated this to me – though the amount of Synology router hardware at tech events has diminished rapidly and stock levels outside of their official stores seems patchy). The concern is instead based on what users are seeing around the product line: older hardware, no WiFi 7 model, limited visible roadmap, and mesh products that feel increasingly dated compared with newer alternatives. Synology still publicly lists the RT6600ax and WRX560, and both remain WiFi 6/6e products rather than WiFi 7 replacements. The RT6600ax is listed as a tri-band WiFi 6 router with a 2.5GbE port, while the WRX560 is listed as a dual-band WiFi 6 router with a configurable 2.5GbE WAN/LAN port. It does seem oddly quiet when you consider the extent of availability of WiFi 7 routers in the market right now.

Why Users Are Asking Questions About the Router Roadmap

The recent discussion on Reddit shows the problem clearly: users are not only asking whether Synology routers are still good today, but whether buying into the range now is sensible if there is no obvious next step. One user asked directly whether Synology is “sunsetting” its router family, pointing out that the RT6600ax is from 2022, that the MR2200ac mesh extender has become hard to find in some places, and that there has been no public sign of WiFi 7 hardware. That is the core issue. A router can continue to work well for existing owners, but new buyers are usually looking for some confidence that the platform will still be developed over the next few years.

The discussion is also not entirely one-sided. Some users are still happy with Synology routers, especially those who value the firewall tools, Threat Prevention, Safe Access, VPN features and the familiar SRM interface. One user in the same Reddit discussion said their RT6600ax and older RT2600ac wired mesh setup had been “100% stable” with more than 50 devices, which shows that not every owner is unhappy or affected by the same problems. Others, however, are already recommending UniFi, MikroTik, Firewalla, ASUS or other alternatives, not always because Synology routers have stopped working, but because the range feels static. This is an important distinction for the article: the community concern is real, but it is still a mixture of user experience, market comparison and speculation rather than a confirmed end-of-life announcement.

Hardware Age, WiFi 7 and the Competitive Gap

The larger market has moved quickly since the RT6600ax and WRX560 arrived. WiFi 7 routers and access points are now widely available from several consumer and prosumer brands, and multi-gig networking is becoming more common in home and small business internet connections. That puts Synology in a slightly awkward position. The RT6600ax does include a 2.5GbE port, and the WRX560 also has a configurable 2.5GbE WAN/LAN port, but neither product provides the broader WiFi 7 and multi-gig direction that buyers may expect in 2026. For users with 1Gb internet and modest LAN needs, this may not matter much. For users with faster fibre, 2.5GbE switches, 10GbE NAS systems, or WiFi 7 client devices, it becomes much harder to justify investing in older WiFi 6 router hardware unless the price or software experience is especially compelling.

This is where Synology’s router range starts to look more exposed than its NAS range. In NAS, Synology can still lean heavily on DSM, Synology Drive, Hyper Backup, Active Backup, Surveillance Station, Snapshot Replication and long-term software familiarity. In routers, SRM is still a strength, but the hardware competition is more aggressive and refresh cycles matter more visibly. UniFi, ASUS, TP-Link, Netgear and others are fighting hard around WiFi 7, 2.5GbE, 10GbE, mesh, gateway appliances and app-based management. Synology does not need to match every one of those brands feature-for-feature, but the absence of any announced WiFi 7 router or updated mesh range makes the product family feel less active. That is not the same as proof of abandonment, but for buyers spending money today, perception matters.

SRM Support, Security Features and Reported WRX560 Problems

The software side is more complicated. Synology has not simply stopped updating SRM. Its official SRM release notes show SRM 1.3.2-9366 in 2026, and Synology’s Download Center for the RT6600ax still lists SRM 1.3 Series for the product. That matters, because it means “abandoned” would be too strong as a factual description. There is a big difference between a product line that is no longer moving quickly and a product line that has stopped receiving maintenance. Synology also still markets router features such as parental controls, web filtering, traffic control, threat prevention, VPN tools and network segmentation on current product pages.

At the same time, several user reports raise questions about whether the hardware resources in some Synology routers are enough for the full SRM feature set under real-world conditions. One detailed Reddit post from a WRX560 owner claimed that 2 WRX560 routers became unstable when running Safe Access and Threat Prevention, with diagnostic evidence pointing to RAM exhaustion and swap usage rather than CPU saturation. The post claims that CPU idle remained high, while available RAM dropped heavily and swap use increased, causing network instability and local device dropouts. The same user also stated that Synology Support confirmed there was no confirmed firmware fix or patch available to fully resolve the described behaviour, and that the suggested remedy was to disable marketed security features or reduce the number of connected devices. This remains a user report, not an independent lab test, but it is detailed enough that it should not simply be dismissed as a vague complaint.

No Official Discontinuation, But Confidence Is Clearly Being Tested

The strongest counterpoint is that there is still no public Synology announcement saying the router family has been retired. In fact, one Reddit thread discussing the topic was removed by moderators, with comments asking for proof and warning against unsupported claims. Several users in the discussion specifically asked where Synology had officially announced an exit from routers, and others pointed out that no such announcement had been found. That is why the wording here matters. It is fair to say that Synology’s router roadmap looks unclear. It is fair to say that users are questioning the future of the range. It is fair to say that the lack of WiFi 7 hardware is becoming harder to ignore. But it would not be fair to state that Synology has officially discontinued routers unless Synology confirms it.

There is also the SRM life cycle angle. Synology’s Software Life Cycle Policy lists SRM 1.3 as having reached general availability in April 2022, with the End of Maintenance Phase listed as December 2026 and the End of Extended Life Phase still “to be announced.” This does not automatically mean SRM is ending, because policies can be extended and new SRM versions can appear. However, in the absence of new router hardware or a clearly communicated SRM 1.4 direction, it adds to the uncertainty. For existing owners, this means the practical advice is not to panic if the router is stable and still receiving updates. For new buyers, the calculation is different. Buying into a router ecosystem is not just about whether the current product works today, but whether the platform looks active enough to support future devices, faster internet connections, newer WiFi standards and ongoing security expectations.

Overall, Synology’s router range appears to be in a holding pattern rather than an officially abandoned state. Existing RT6600ax, WRX560, RT2600ac and MR2200ac owners may still have stable, useful systems, especially if they are not pushing the routers hard with advanced traffic inspection and larger mesh environments. But for new buyers in 2026, the case is less comfortable than it used to be. The lack of WiFi 7 hardware, no clear public roadmap, ageing mesh options, user complaints around advanced SRM features, and stronger competition from UniFi, ASUS, MikroTik, Firewalla and others all make Synology networking harder to recommend without caveats. Until Synology either releases new router hardware or clearly explains where SRM and its router ecosystem are going next, the question is not whether Synology routers still work, but whether the company is still treating routers as an active long-term product line.

 

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What is the Gl.iNet Comet Q KVM?

The Gl.iNet Comet Q is a compact KVM-over-IP device built around a different kind of deployment than most existing entries in this category. Instead of focusing on HDMI-connected desktops, servers, or rack hardware, the Comet Q is designed around a direct USB-C connection, allowing it to interface with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other compatible host devices through a single pre-attached cable. Alongside local access, it also integrates WiFi-based networking, remote internet control, a built-in touchscreen, and USB-C pass-through for power delivery to the connected device. Based on the early demonstration shown during a visit to Gl.iNet in Shenzhen, the Comet Q appears to be aimed at portable remote access, field support, and off-site troubleshooting, while also expanding the wider Comet KVM range into a more mobile and lower-power form factor.

Interested in Gl.iNet KVM Devices? Here are some great options available NOW: Gl.iNet Comet Pro $179 – HERE on Amazon Gl.iNet Comet 5G $299 – HERE on Amazon Gl.iNet Comet PoE $129 – HERE on Amazon

Gl.iNet Comet Q Hardware Specifications

The Gl.iNet Comet Q is built around a notably smaller hardware platform than the rest of the Comet KVM family. According to the specification sheet provided, it uses a dual-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor, paired with 512MB of LPDDR4 memory and 64GB of onboard storage. This places it below the Comet, Comet PoE, Comet Pro, and Comet 5G in raw system resources, but that appears consistent with its intended role as a highly compact USB-C based access device rather than a more traditional full-size KVM endpoint.

In terms of connectivity, the Comet Q differs significantly from the rest of the range. Rather than relying on HDMI input, it uses a USB-C connection with DisplayPort Alt Mode support for video input. This is the key functional distinction in the lineup, as it allows the device to connect directly to supported modern phones, tablets, and laptops without requiring a separate HDMI capture path. The copied specifications also indicate USB 2.0 Type-A and Type-C connectivity, alongside 1 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port.

Wireless support is also listed as part of the Comet Q feature set. The specification sheet references 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax support, with 2.4GHz and 5GHz operation included across the lineup. Although the pasted table is clearly the result of OCR and contains some formatting inconsistencies, the Comet Q is positioned as a wireless-enabled KVM device rather than a purely wired one, which aligns with the functionality shown in the demonstration. This is important because the device is intended to support both local network access and wider remote access scenarios.

Power and physical design are clearly central to the Comet Q hardware profile. It is rated for Type-C power input at 5V/2A, with listed power consumption of less than 2.5W, making it the lowest-power device in the copied Comet family specifications. It also includes a 1.8-inch touchscreen, which is smaller than the displays used on some of the larger Comet models, but appropriate for quick status checks, local configuration, and access control on a device intended for portable use.

Environmental and physical figures place the Comet Q firmly in the compact end of the lineup. The operating temperature is listed as 0°C to 40°C, consistent with the rest of the family. The OCR copy of the table does not clearly preserve the final dimensions and weight entry for the Comet Q in the same way as the other models, but the wider specification set still makes clear that this is intended to be a lighter, lower-power, more travel-friendly device than the HDMI-based Comet units already in the range.

Specification	Gl.iNet Comet Q
Model	GL-RMQ1
CPU	Dual-core ARM Cortex-A53
Memory	512MB LPDDR4
Storage	64GB
Wireless Protocol	802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax
Wireless Bands	2.4GHz, 5GHz
Ethernet Port	1 x RJ45 10/100/1000Mbps
USB Ports	USB 2.0 Type-A, USB 2.0 Type-C
Power Input	Type-C (5V/2A)
Power Consumption	<2.5W
Screen	1.8-inch touchscreen
Video Input	1 x USB-C (DP Alt supported)
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C
Notes	USB-C based KVM design intended for compatible mobile and computing devices

 

What is the Comet Q KVM bringing to the market that is new?

The main distinction of the Gl.iNet Comet Q is its physical design and target use case. Most KVM-over-IP devices are built around HDMI capture and are designed for desktops, servers, mini PCs, or rack-mounted hardware. The Comet Q instead shifts the concept toward a much smaller USB-C based form factor, with a pre-attached cable and integrated display in a body that is intended to be carried and deployed quickly. That makes it structurally different from the more static, cabling-heavy approach seen in much of the current KVM market.

Portability is another clear differentiator. The Comet Q is designed to operate from USB-C power at under 2.5W, which creates a very different deployment model from larger KVM appliances that often assume fixed placement, dedicated power, and a more permanent network setup. In practical terms, this makes the device easier to use in travel scenarios, temporary support jobs, meeting environments, mobile workstations, and short-term remote access situations where carrying a larger HDMI-based KVM would be less practical.

Its support for USB-C connected client devices also broadens the type of hardware that can be managed. The Comet Q is positioned not only for laptops and compact computers, but also for phones and tablets that support the necessary USB-C display and data standards. That gives it a role that is uncommon in the KVM-over-IP space, where Android phones, tablets, and similarly compact devices are not usually the primary focus. In that respect, the Comet Q is not just reducing size, but also changing the class of device a KVM can be attached to.

The single-cable approach is also important. Based on the demonstration and the listed hardware details, the Comet Q is intended to combine connection, control, and power handling through USB-C, while also supporting network access over LAN, WiFi, and remote internet connectivity. That creates a simpler deployment path than a conventional KVM setup that may require separate video, USB, power, and networking connections. The result is a product that appears to reduce setup complexity while extending KVM access to devices and environments that are not well served by existing HDMI-first designs.

How Does the Comet Q Compare with the Rest of the Gl.iNet KVM Lineup?

Within the wider Gl.iNet Comet series, the Comet Q sits as the most specialised and least traditional model in the range. The RM1 Comet, RM1PE Comet PoE, RM10 Comet Pro, and RM10RC Comet 5G are all built around a more conventional KVM design, using HDMI input and, in some cases, HDMI output for passthrough or expanded deployment. The Comet Q moves away from that approach by replacing HDMI capture with USB-C video input via DP Alt Mode, which changes both the kind of device it can connect to and the environments where it is likely to be used.

In hardware terms, the Comet Q is also the most lightweight system in the lineup. Its dual-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor and 512MB of LPDDR4 memory place it below the other Comet devices, which generally use quad-core ARM processors and 1GB of DDR3L memory. Its sub-2.5W power draw is also the lowest figure listed across the range. That lower hardware ceiling makes sense in context, as the Comet Q appears to prioritise mobility, compact deployment, and low power operation over the broader feature scope of the higher-end HDMI-based models.

The other Comet devices are more clearly structured for fixed installations or more complex remote management roles. The Comet PoE adds Power over Ethernet support for simpler networked deployment, the Comet Pro adds both HDMI input and output, and the Comet 5G extends this further with cellular connectivity through 4G LTE and 5G RedCap support. Compared with those, the Comet Q is not trying to be the most feature-rich model. Instead, it fills a separate position by targeting USB-C connected client hardware and a more portable usage model than the rest of the lineup.

This makes the Comet Q less of a direct replacement for the other Comet units and more of a complementary product. The HDMI-based models remain better suited to desktops, servers, fixed workstations, and network infrastructure where traditional video capture and broader connectivity options matter more. The Comet Q, by contrast, is better understood as a compact access tool for modern mobile and USB-C centric devices, where physical size, single-cable deployment, and lower power use are more important than maximum processing resources or infrastructure-oriented connectivity.

Interested in Gl.iNet KVM Devices? Here are some great options available NOW: Gl.iNet Comet Pro $179 – HERE on Amazon Gl.iNet Comet 5G $299 – HERE on Amazon Gl.iNet Comet PoE $129 – HERE on Amazon

Gl.iNet Comet Q KVM Price & Release Date?

At the time of filming, Gl.iNet had not confirmed a final release schedule for the Comet Q, and availability was still being discussed internally. The device shown in Shenzhen appeared to be relatively close to completion from a hardware and interface perspective, but it was still clearly in a pre-release state, with software behaviour, feature scope, and final implementation details still being adjusted. Gl.iNet also indicated that the launch route under consideration could involve Kickstarter, which suggests the company is still assessing demand and market positioning for this particular model.

Pricing was also not final at the time of the demonstration. The only estimate provided was a broad target range of around $100 to $200, with the expectation that the final retail position would likely sit closer to the lower end of that range than the upper end. Until Gl.iNet confirms official launch pricing, regional availability, and a release timetable, the Comet Q remains a revealed but not yet fully commercialised addition to the wider Comet KVM lineup.

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New Cost-Effective USB4, M.2 and PCIe Adapters from IOCREST/Lekuo for 2026 Revealed

IOCREST, also marketed under the Lekuo name for consumer channels, is preparing a broader range of USB4, M.2, and PCIe expansion products aimed at users who need higher speed networking, storage expansion, or more flexible external PCIe connectivity. Based on the product information provided and the accompanying interview material, the current lineup combines shipping devices with several products still in development or not yet formally listed on the company’s official product pages, reflecting a portfolio that spans compact 10GbE adapters, SFP+ connectivity, multi-drive enclosures, and USB4 based PCIe breakout designs.

Lekuo USB4 to 10GbE Hub

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The Lekuo DTB3R61 is a compact USB4 hub that combines 10GbE networking with basic peripheral and removable media expansion in a single enclosure. It is built around a USB4 upstream connection and is intended for hosts that support USB4 or Thunderbolt 3/4/5, rather than older USB 3.x only systems. In practical terms, this positions it as a multi function dock for users who need wired 10GbE, a small number of USB ports, and SD or TF card access without moving to a larger desktop class dock.

The port layout is relatively simple, consisting of 1x 10GbE RJ45 port, 3x 5Gbps USB Type A ports, and a TF/SD 3.0 card reader. The supplied specifications list a 40Gbps host link, support for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and a compact metal chassis. Although your transcript refers to a fanless design, the specification sheet provided here states an aluminum alloy casing with fan assisted cooling, so that distinction should be treated carefully in the article unless you want to frame it as pre release versus final spec variation.

Lekuo USB4 to 2x25GbE Adapter

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This unreleased Lekuo adapter is one of the more bandwidth focused products discussed in the interview material, built around a USB4 host connection and 2x 25GbE network ports. Based on the information provided, the design uses an SFP based approach rather than RJ45, which is consistent with the higher thermal and signal demands of 25GbE. It is positioned as a compact external network adapter for systems that need significantly more throughput than 10GbE, while still relying on USB4 as the host side connection.

The transcript also indicates several design details that help distinguish this unit from more common USB or Thunderbolt network adapters. It is described as a silent design with no active fan, includes an external barrel power input, and features a physical power button on the enclosure. The company indicated that the product was expected around Q2 and priced below $200 at the time of filming, but as it is not yet listed on the official product page, those details should be treated as pre release guidance rather than final retail specification.

Lekuo DTB3F21 USB4 to 2x10GbE Adapter

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The Lekuo DTB3F21 is a dual port USB4 network adapter designed around 2x 10GbE SFP+ connections. Unlike simpler USB to Ethernet devices that target single port RJ45 connectivity, this model is positioned for users who need higher density fibre or DAC based networking from a single external enclosure. The supplied specifications identify the Intel 82599 controller, placing it closer to a traditional server class 10GbE design than a lower cost USB NIC.

From the product information and transcript, this adapter is part of Lekuo’s broader push into USB4 based external networking, especially for systems that lack internal expansion but still need multi port high speed network access. The enclosure is described as compact and externally connected over USB Type C, with support across Windows, Windows Server, Linux distributions, and several enterprise networking features such as VLAN support, jumbo frames, interrupt moderation, and virtual machine queue support. In the transcript, a dual 10GbE version is also discussed alongside the dual 25GbE model as part of the same general product family.

Lekuo M.2 to 10G SFP+ Adapter

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Lekuo is also developing an M.2 to 10G SFP+ adapter, extending the same general idea seen in its M.2 to 10GbE RJ45 products toward fibre based networking. In the transcript, this product is described as a refined version of an existing concept rather than a completely new direction, aimed at compact systems that only have an M.2 slot available for expansion. That makes it relevant for small servers, mini PCs, and embedded platforms where a full PCIe slot is not available but higher speed network connectivity is still required.

The main distinction here is the move from copper 10GbE to SFP+, which allows use of fibre modules or DAC cabling depending on deployment requirements. That gives the adapter a different role from the RJ45 version, particularly in longer distance links or environments already using SFP+ switching infrastructure. Based on your notes, this product is not yet available on the official product page, so the current information is limited to what was shown and discussed during the visit rather than a finalized retail specification sheet.

Lekuo USB4 to 2x PCIe Gen4 x1 Slots Box

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This unreleased Lekuo USB4 expansion box is designed to expose 2x PCIe slots from a single external USB4 connection, using the same basic enclosure approach shown on the company’s 8x 1GbE adapter. In the transcript, the unit is described as a small PCIe dock originally used internally for testing, with the USB4 connection bridging to 2 separate PCIe paths inside the enclosure. The concept is straightforward: rather than delivering fixed networking or storage, it provides a more flexible external PCIe breakout for users who want to install their own cards.

That flexibility is the main point of interest here. The transcript suggests use cases such as network cards, SATA cards, and other compact PCIe devices, with bus power available over USB4 and a barrel power input included for cards that need more power than the host connection can provide on its own. Since this product is not yet listed on the official product page, the available information is still limited and some details remain unconfirmed. The requested naming of this section as a PCIe Gen4 x1 slot box reflects the intended lane configuration you provided, but that specific wording was not fully documented in the supplied official specification text, so it should be treated as based on your product notes.

Lekuo USB4 to 4 HDD and 1x Gen4 M.2 Box

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Lekuo is also preparing a multi drive USB4 enclosure that combines 4 HDD bays with a single PCIe Gen4 M.2 NVMe slot in the same chassis. Based on the transcript, this is a DAS rather than a NAS, so it is intended to provide direct attached storage expansion over USB4 instead of functioning as a self contained network appliance. The inclusion of the M.2 slot adds a layer of flexibility beyond a standard 4 bay enclosure, allowing for SSD caching, a dedicated fast volume, or a separate high speed workspace alongside the hard drive array.

The product is described as relying on software RAID rather than including a hardware RAID controller, and the transcript also notes a dual port TB4 style design for daisy chaining. At the same time, the core concept is clear: this is an external storage enclosure aimed at users who want a mix of larger capacity HDD storage and faster NVMe storage within a single USB4 connected device. As with several of the other products shown during the visit, this unit does not yet appear on the official product page, so the available details should be treated as pre release rather than final retail specifications.

Lekuo USB Expansion PCIe Card

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Lekuo is also developing a PCIe expansion card that combines USB and storage connectivity on a single board, aimed at systems where slot space is limited and adding multiple separate controller cards is not practical. In the transcript, the card is shown with 2x USB Type C ports, 1x USB Type A port, 4x SATA ports, and an integrated 2.5GbE network connection. Rather than focusing on a single function, it is intended as a compact multi purpose expansion card for small form factor systems, embedded builds, or storage focused PCs that still need additional external connectivity.

The card is described as operating over a PCIe Gen4 x1 connection, giving it a total host side bandwidth of 20Gbps to allocate across its various controllers. That does not mean every port can run at maximum speed simultaneously, but it does make the board suitable for mixed duty use where SATA connectivity, modest USB expansion, and basic 2.5GbE networking need to be consolidated into one slot. Based on the material you provided, this product was shown during the visit rather than backed by a full standalone specification sheet, so some lower level details remain unspecified.

Lekuo USB4 to 10G SFP+ Adapter

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Lekuo is also expanding its external 10GbE range with a USB4 to 10G SFP+ adapter, offering an alternative to the more common RJ45 based 10GbE designs already associated with the brand. In the transcript, this model is presented as a silent SFP based version of the company’s existing copper 10GbE adapter, intended for users who want fibre or DAC connectivity instead of 10GBASE T. That makes it more relevant for rackmount environments, structured fibre deployments, and users already working with SFP+ switching infrastructure.

The product appears to share the same broader design language as the other newer USB4 network adapters shown during the visit, including a compact metal enclosure, ventilation at each end, and an external power option. The transcript also notes a physical power button on this family of devices, which is relatively uncommon on compact external network adapters. As this specific single port USB4 to 10G SFP+ model is not included in the supplied formal product specification sheets, the current information is based on what was shown and described in the video rather than a final retail listing.

Who Are IOCREST/Lekuo?

IOCREST and Lekuo are effectively 2 market facing identities used by the same company. Based on the interview material, the business was founded in 2000 and has operated for more than 20 years in adapter, connectivity, and expansion hardware design. IOCREST appears more closely associated with the company’s long standing OEM and B2B activity, while Lekuo is the branding now being pushed more directly toward end users and consumer retail channels.

A key point from the interview is that the company states that most of its products are designed in house, including the internal engineering and development work behind its USB, USB4, M.2, and PCIe based solutions. It also describes its product planning as being driven by practical gaps in the market, particularly in compact systems where users need to add networking, storage, or expansion features that are not available on the base hardware. That helps explain why many of its products focus on niche but increasingly relevant use cases such as M.2 to 10GbE, USB4 to multi port networking, and external PCIe breakout designs.

The other defining part of the company’s position is that much of its historical business has been behind the scenes. In the interview, Lekuo states that before its more recent consumer push, most of its sales were B2B, with products often sold through partners, distributors, or other companies without prominent IOCREST or Lekuo branding on the product listing itself. The current shift appears to be less about changing what it makes and more about putting its own name in front of products that were previously sold in a more anonymous OEM style model.

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

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

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

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Do You Like What We Do? Support NASCompares via Affiliate Links (it costs you nothing extra!)

If you enjoy what we do at NASCompares, whether that is our YouTube videos, in depth guides, honest reviews, breaking news coverage, or the conversations happening on the forum, one of the easiest ways to support us is by using our affiliate links when you make a purchase. It does not cost you anything extra, but it does provide a small commission that helps keep NASCompares going. Behind everything you see here, it is just me and Eddie doing the research, filming, writing, testing, replying, and keeping the whole thing running, so every bit of support genuinely makes a difference and helps us continue creating the independent NAS content you rely on.

Below is a breakdown of each of the brands that we affiliate with. IMPORTANT – we do not allow any of the brands below to control the content or narrative of any article, video or guide here on NASCompares. When an inaccuracy is spotted, or a misunderstanding about a device has been brought to our attention by them (or YOU!), that is the only circumstance whereby we will engage with changing our content. We pride ourselves on our independence and accuracy!

Where to Buy a UGREEN NAS and Support NASCompares:

UGREEN has become an increasingly relevant name for NAS users, expanding from its well known accessories business into dedicated NAS hardware with its NASync range for home users, creators, and small businesses. At NASCompares, we have covered UGREEN NAS closely, from early hands on reviews to longer term follow ups, helping our audience weigh up its hardware value, software progress, and place in the wider NAS market. If you choose to buy UGREEN through our affiliate links, you will not pay anything extra, but you will be directly helping NASCompares continue its videos, guides, reviews, and day to day coverage of emerging NAS brands like this one.

Visit the official UGREEN Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your UGREEN NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the UGREEN Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a UniFi UNAS and Support NASCompares:

UniFi has pushed further into storage with its UNAS range, bringing NAS hardware into the same ecosystem as its switching, routing, surveillance, and broader UniFi management platform, with models now spanning compact desktop systems through to rackmount 10GbE solutions. At NASCompares, we have followed the UniFi UNAS family closely with reviews, comparisons, and long term coverage, helping readers understand where these systems excel, where they are still evolving, and how well they fit into real world home and business storage setups. If you choose to buy a UniFi UNAS system through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing NAS coverage.

Visit the official UniFi UNAS Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your UniFi UNAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the UNAS Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy an AOOSTAR NAS and Support NASCompares:

AOOSTAR NAS devices have carved out a niche in the market by combining compact mini PC style designs with surprisingly capable storage hardware, with systems like the WTR Pro and WTR Max appealing to home lab users, enthusiasts, and buyers looking for flexible OS free NAS solutions. At NASCompares, we have covered AOOSTAR closely across reviews, comparisons, and hands on testing, helping readers understand the balance of price, performance, expandability, and the extra setup that often comes with these more DIY leaning systems. If you choose to buy an AOOSTAR NAS through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing coverage of innovative NAS hardware like this.

Visit the official AOOSTAR Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your AOOSTAR NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the AOOSTAR Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a BEELINK NAS and Support NASCompares:

Beelink has quickly become a notable name in compact NAS hardware, building on its mini PC background with systems like the ME Mini and ME Pro that target home users and enthusiasts looking for space efficient, SSD rich, and power conscious storage solutions. At NASCompares, we have covered Beelink NAS devices closely through reviews, comparisons, and follow up coverage, helping readers understand where these compact systems excel in performance, flexibility, and value, as well as where their more DIY style approach may not suit every buyer. If you choose to buy a Beelink NAS through our affiliate links, you will not pay anything extra, but you will be helping NASCompares continue its independent videos, guides, reviews, and hands on coverage of innovative storage hardware.

Visit the official BEELINK Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your BEELINK NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the BEELINK Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a Terramaster NAS and Support NASCompares:

TerraMaster has become a well established name in NAS, offering a broad range of desktop and rackmount solutions that appeal to home users, enthusiasts, and small businesses, with recent systems and the latest TOS 6 software showing how the brand continues to evolve in both hardware and usability. At NASCompares, we have covered TerraMaster extensively across reviews, comparisons, and software analysis, helping readers understand where its systems deliver strong value, where they fit in the wider NAS market, and which models are best suited to different workloads. If you choose to buy a TerraMaster NAS through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing NAS coverage.

Visit the official Terramaster Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your TerramasterNAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the Terraamster Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy NAS from B&H and Support NASCompares:

Buying a NAS from B&H can be a great option for NASCompares readers, as the retailer regularly carries a wide mix of NAS brands including Synology, QNAP, Asustor, UGREEN, Buffalo, and other storage focused solutions across home, prosumer, and business price points. At NASCompares, we often highlight B&H as a useful place to compare availability across multiple NAS brands in one place, making it easier for buyers to match the right enclosure, drives, and accessories to their needs. If you choose to buy your NAS from B&H through our affiliate links, you will not pay anything extra, but you will be directly helping NASCompares continue its independent videos, reviews, guides, and day to day NAS coverage.

Visit the official B&H Store below to see which NAS devices they currently sell and you can support us at NASCompares. Generally, you will find (to date) Synology, QNAP, Asustor, Terramaster, UGREEN, Minisforum and WD NAS on their site.

(Click the picture below to Head to the B&H Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a ZIMAOS NAS and Support NASCompares:

IceWhale has built a distinctive storage ecosystem around ZimaCube, ZimaOS, ZimaBoard, and ZimaBlade, appealing to home lab users, makers, and NAS enthusiasts who want flexible private cloud and self hosted storage solutions rather than traditional closed box systems. At NASCompares, we have followed the Zima and IceWhale range closely through reviews, interviews, and ongoing coverage, helping readers understand where these products stand out in terms of hardware flexibility, software direction, and DIY appeal in the wider NAS market. If you choose to buy a ZimaCube, ZimaBoard, ZimaBlade, or use related IceWhale links through NASCompares, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support our independent videos, guides, reviews, and continued coverage of innovative alternatives in the NAS space.

Visit the official ZIMA Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your ZIMACUBE, ZIMABLADE, ZIMACUBE NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

>>>>>>>  Channel Zima DISCOUNT CODE: ‘NASCOMPARES50‘ <<<<<<<

(Click the picture below to Head to the Zima Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a Gli.Net KVM and Support NASCompares:

GL.iNet KVM devices, including the Comet, Comet PoE, Comet Pro, and Comet 5G, have become increasingly appealing to home lab users, IT professionals, and NAS enthusiasts who need low level remote access to systems for troubleshooting, maintenance, and recovery beyond what standard remote desktop software can provide. At NASCompares, we have followed the GL.iNet KVM range closely through reviews and coverage, helping readers understand where these devices fit into real world server, NAS, and remote management setups, especially for users who want affordable KVM over IP options with modern connectivity features. If you choose to buy a GL.iNet KVM through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing coverage of useful tools for storage and network users.

Visit the official Gl.iNet Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your Gl.iNet KVM on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the Gl.iNet Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a UnifyDrive NAS and Support NASCompares:

UnifyDrive has carved out a distinctive place in the NAS market with portable and creator focused systems like the UT2 and UP6, aimed at photographers, videographers, and remote professionals who need high speed storage, backup, and sharing outside the limits of a traditional desktop NAS. At NASCompares, we have covered UnifyDrive closely through reviews and ongoing coverage, helping readers understand where these mobile NAS devices stand out in terms of portability, NVMe performance, creator workflows, and real world usability. If you choose to buy a UnifyDrive system through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and continued hands on coverage of innovative storage solutions like this.

Visit the official UnifyDrive Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your UnifyDrive UT2 or UP6 NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

>>>  Channel Zima or DISCOUNT CODE: ‘NASCOMPARES‘ Click HERE to apply automatically <<<

(Click the picture below to Head to the UnifyDrive Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a UnRAID DIY NAS License and Support NASCompares:

Unraid licences are a popular choice for NASCompares readers because they turn a huge range of standard PC and server hardware into flexible NAS, VM, container, and media server systems, with current licence options starting at $49 and scaling to suit different storage builds and long term update needs. At NASCompares, we regularly cover Unraid in guides, comparisons, and installation tutorials, helping users decide whether its mix of storage flexibility, app support, and DIY freedom is the right fit for their setup. If you choose to buy an Unraid licence through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and hands on NAS coverage.

Visit the official UnRAID Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your UnRAID Lincstation NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store) as the Intel-powered NAS devices include an UnRAID license.

(Click the picture below to Head to the UnRAID Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a PLEX PASS Subscription and Support NASCompares:

Plex Pass remains one of the most popular upgrades for NASCompares readers building a media server, unlocking premium features such as hardware transcoding, downloads, DVR support, and advanced media tools, with current pricing listed by Plex at $6.99 monthly, $69.99 annually, or $249.99 for a lifetime pass. At NASCompares, we regularly cover Plex in buying guides, setup advice, and NAS compatibility discussions, helping users choose the right hardware and understand whether Plex Pass is worth it for their media library and streaming needs. If you choose to buy Plex Pass through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing coverage for the Plex and NAS community.

(Click the picture below to Head to the PLEX Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy from AliExpress and Support NASCompares:

Visit the official Aliexpress global Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store) for the same products with a shorter delivery time (most of the time), but a higher price tag.

(Click the picture below to Head to the Aliexpress Official Global Store, or visit HERE)

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Where to Buy a Gl.iNet Travel Router and Support NASCompares:

GL.iNet routers have become increasingly relevant to NASCompares readers thanks to a broad lineup that ranges from compact travel routers like the Beryl and Slate series to home and security focused models such as Flint and Brume, all built around secure networking, VPN features, and flexible OpenWrt based control. At NASCompares, we have covered GL.iNet routers across reviews, comparisons, and first look coverage, helping users understand how these devices fit into travel networking, home lab setups, remote working, and secure access alongside NAS and server hardware. If you choose to buy a GL.iNet router through our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything extra, but it does help support NASCompares and allows us to keep producing independent videos, guides, reviews, and ongoing coverage for storage and network enthusiasts.

>>>  Channel Zima or DISCOUNT CODE 10% Off New Products: ‘GLNEW10‘ <<<

Visit the official Gl.iNet Store below, or you can support us at NASCompares by purchasing your travel router NAS on Amazon HERE (it will redirect to your local Amazon store).

(Click the picture below to Head to the Gli.Net Official Store, or visit HERE)

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Do You Want to Support Our Work Directly?

Your support will help with:

• Attending more expos and finding out about new NAS releases
• Unboxing, reviewing, testing and comparing more new NAS releases
• Paying for the website hosting
• Paying IT guys to add, fix and change bits on the blog
• Pay for the coffee when there are too many new releases in such a short time

Simply click on your local Amazon, Ebay or other shop icon below or donate via PayPal. Thank You!

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Directly Support Us with a PayPal Donation

So, if you would like to directly donate to NASCompares and help Me and Eddie carry on doing what we do, use the Paypal link below:

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Support Us with the Cost of a Cup of Coffee!

If you would like to support us in a small way, you can always use Ko-Fi to donate any smaller sum you choose

We need your help to purchase new NAS models for our data storage system, which we can keep in our studio for the long term. The manufacturer-supplied unit we currently have is only available for a short time, which limits our ability to create comprehensive comparisons, guides, and upgrades. Your support will enable us to provide you with the highest-quality content and grow our platform.

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Support Our Work by Using Us for a Consultation or Network Troubleshooting

Although NASCompares is just two people, we have been around in the work of networking and data for almost three decades (from amateur teenage computer hobbyists, through academic pursuits and now fully established in it). So, if you want to support our work, but want something directly beneficial in return, we do offer different kinds of support in a one-to-one capacity. We currently offer the following services:

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Services & Cloud Providers We Are Affiliated With

Alongside reviewing different network/storage hardware and software, we also have affiliations with popular service providers. We tend to change these every 6 months or so, in order to ensure that we are only putting our name to ones we would personally use. If you plan on using any of the services listed below, please use the links provided, as it ensures that me and Eddie here at NASCompares get a small referral fee, which goes directly back into making content and purchasing new hardware for our videos/articles. Thank you.

 

 

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

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

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

WE LOVE COFFEE