The Best PLEX, Emby and/or Jellyfin NAS Devices Released in 2025

Network media servers in 2025 range from tiny single drive boxes to fairly serious multi bay systems that can sit at the center of a home network. This article looks specifically at NAS hardware released in 2025 that can sensibly replace or supplement streaming services by running Plex, Jellyfin or Emby. The focus is on devices that arrive as complete appliances, with both hardware and a NAS style operating system included, so you can put a box on the network, install a media server app and start watching without building a PC or learning a full server stack.

To be included here, a NAS has to have gone on general sale in 2025, ship with its own OS rather than as a bareboard, and be able to run Plex Media Server, with Jellyfin and Emby support noted where it exists. In practical terms, that means hardware that can handle 4K and 1080p playback for multiple users and is realistically capable of at least 2 simultaneous 4K transcodes and 5 simultaneous 1080p transcodes, with a single exception where the overall package still makes sense for more limited workloads. RAID options, expansion, power use and noise are all taken into account, but the main filter is whether the device can function reliably as a modern media server on a typical home or small office network.

#1 Synology BeeStation Plus 8TB – $399 to $419

SPECS: Intel Celeron J4125 quad core 2.0 to 2.7 GHz – 4 GB DDR4 – 1 x 3.5″ 8 TB SATA bay (pre installed) – 1 x 1 GbE RJ45 / 1 x USB A 3.2 Gen 1 / 1 x USB C 3.2 Gen 1 – no M.2 SSD support.

BeeStation Plus is aimed at users who want a simple, appliance like Plex box rather than a configurable NAS. It runs Synology’s cut down BeeStation OS, has Plex Media Server support built in, and is set up entirely through a guided app and browser flow, so there is minimal configuration overhead. The hardware is sufficient for basic 4K and 1080p Plex use for a small number of clients, but the single non replaceable drive bay and lack of expansion, RAID options or M.2 slots mean it is best treated as a starter Plex unit for light libraries rather than a long term, scalable media server, and there is no official Jellyfin or Emby integration at this time.

What we said in our March ’25 Review HERE:

The Synology BeeStation marks a significant shift in Synology’s product line, targeting a new segment of users with its simplified yet functional design. This device stands out as an excellent middle ground between ease of use and a comprehensive private cloud system, providing secure and seamless access to stored data. While it is incredibly user-friendly and easy to set up, the lack of LAN access by default and its single-bay, 4TB-only configuration at launch might limit its appeal to more tech-savvy users or those seeking greater flexibility and expandability. The BeeStation’s unique selling point is its simplicity, making it a compelling choice for those new to NAS systems or for users who prioritize ease of use over extensive customization options. However, its simplicity also means that it lacks the extensive app support found in Synology’s DSM platform, potentially disappointing users accustomed to the richer application ecosystem offered by Synology’s more advanced models.

For users concerned about security, the BeeStation still upholds Synology’s reputation for secure data handling, with encrypted data transmission as a standard feature. However, experienced users who prefer a more hands-on approach to their NAS setup might find the BeeStation’s lack of advanced configuration options and its reliance on internet access for setup somewhat restrictive. In terms of market positioning, the BeeStation fills a gap left by other brands like WD and Seagate in offering ‘Easy NAS’ systems. Its competitive pricing, particularly considering the included 4TB of storage, makes it an attractive option for users seeking a private cloud solution without the recurring costs associated with third-party cloud services. Despite these potential drawbacks, the BeeStation is a solid entry-level NAS solution, especially for those seeking a personal cloud with minimal setup and maintenance. It may not be as feature-rich as Synology’s DSM-based NAS devices, but for its intended audience, the BeeStation provides a well-balanced combination of functionality, ease of use, and affordability. Synology’s move to cater to a broader, less technically inclined audience with the BeeStation demonstrates their understanding of market trends and user needs, offering a solution that balances simplicity with the reliability and quality Synology is known for.

In the end, the Synology BeeStation is an ideal choice for users seeking a straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective personal cloud solution. It represents Synology’s commitment to diversifying their product range, catering to the evolving needs of different user segments. While it may not suit everyone, especially those looking for advanced features and customization, it excels in its role as a user-friendly, secure, and affordable entry-level NAS device.

SOFTWARE - 7/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

User-friendly setup, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple cloud solution.
Secure data handling with encrypted data transmission.
Comes with 4TB of storage included, offering good value.
Compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability.
Quiet operation, suitable for home or office environments.
Integrates seamlessly with popular cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive.
Affordable pricing at $199, a cost-effective alternative to third-party cloud services.
Supports remote access, allowing data management from anywhere and across client devices/OS
Synologys reputation for quality and reliability is still clear on this smaller scale.
Several client tools (BeeFiles, BeePhotos and Desktop sync tool) for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android available for tailored access
System configuration backup option to USB/C2 (Often absent in budget cloud solutions)
AI Photo Recognition in BeePhotos for faces, Objects and geo data scraping + Advanced filter/search

CONS

Lacks the extensive app support and customization found in Synology\'s DSM platform.
Only available in a single-bay, 4TB configuration at launch, limiting expandability.
Single 5400RPM HDD running everything leads to slowdown more than you think!
LAN access is disabled by default, which may not suit all users.
Designed for a specific user base, may not meet the needs of more advanced users.

#2 Minisforum N5 NAS – $599 to $749

SPECS: AMD Ryzen 7 255 8 core 16 thread up to 4.9 GHz – up to 96 GB DDR5 via 2 SODIMM slots – 5 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA bays – 1 x 10 GbE RJ45 / 1 x 5 GbE RJ45 / 2 x USB4 – 3 x M.2 2280 NVMe or U.2 SSD slots (PCIe 4.0).

The Minisforum N5 is a compact 5-bay NAS that targets users who want preconfigured hardware with some workstation derived design features. It uses an x86 CPU in the same general class as the Aoostar WTR Max, paired with an internal storage module of 64 GB for the system volume, and is typically sold in the 599 to 699 USD range, with the separate Pro variant occupying a higher bracket. The chassis integrates a removable drive base section for easier maintenance, and the platform includes multi-gig networking up to 10 GbE and 5 GbE, a PCIe expansion slot and USB4 connectivity for additional bandwidth or external devices. Minisforum ships the N5 with its own NAS operating system to provide an immediate out of box experience, but the software is still relatively young and many buyers elect to overwrite the included module with a more established NAS or server OS. Throughout 2025, availability has been intermittent, reflecting a level of demand from home lab users who want higher specification NAS hardware without building entirely from individual components.

What we said in our July ’25 Review HERE:

The Minisforum N5 Pro is an impressive and highly versatile NAS platform that successfully combines the core strengths of a storage appliance with the capabilities of a compact, workstation-class server, making it suitable for demanding and varied use cases. Its defining features include a 12-core Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU with 24 threads and onboard AI acceleration up to 50 TOPS, support for up to 96GB of ECC-capable DDR5 memory for data integrity, and a hybrid storage architecture offering up to 144TB total capacity through a mix of five SATA bays and three NVMe/U.2 slots. Additional highlights such as ZFS file system support with snapshots, inline compression, and self-healing, along with high-speed networking via dual 10GbE and 5GbE ports, and expansion through PCIe Gen 4 ×16 and OCuLink interfaces, position it well beyond the capabilities of typical consumer NAS systems. The compact, fully metal chassis is easy to service and efficiently cooled, enabling continuous operation even under sustained virtual machine, AI, or media workloads.

At the same time, the bundled MinisCloud OS, while feature-rich with AI photo indexing, Docker support, and mobile integration, remains a work in progress, lacking some enterprise-grade polish, robust localization, and more advanced tools expected in mature NAS ecosystems. Minor drawbacks such as the external PSU, the thermally challenged pre-installed OS SSD, and the higher cost of the Pro variant relative to the standard N5 are important to weigh, particularly for users who may not fully utilize the Pro’s ECC and AI-specific advantages. For advanced users, homelab builders, and technical teams who require high compute density, flexible storage, and full control over their software stack, the N5 Pro delivers workstation-level performance and configurability in NAS form—offering one of the most forward-thinking and adaptable solutions available today in this segment.

The is now available to buy: Minisforum N5 Pro (Check Amazon) – HERE Minisforum N5 Pro (Check AliExpress) – HERE Shop for NAS Hard Drives on Amazon – HERE Shop for SSDs for your N5 Pro on Amazon – HERE

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 9/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.6

PROS

High-performance AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU with 12 cores, 24 threads, and AI acceleration (50 TOPS NPU) is INCREDIBLE for a compact desktop purchase
Support for up to 96GB DDR5 memory with ECC, ensuring data integrity and stability in critical environments
ZFS-ready storage with numerous ZFS and TRADITIONAL RAID configurations, snapshots, and inline compression
Hybrid storage support: five 3.5\\\"/2.5\\\" SATA bays plus three NVMe/U.2 SSD slots, with up to 144TB total capacity
Versatile expansion options including PCIe Gen 4 ×16 slot (×4 electrical) and OCuLink port for GPUs or NVMe cages
Dual high-speed networking: 10GbE and 5GbE RJ45 ports with link aggregation support + (using the inclusive MinisCloud OS) the use of the USB4 ports for direct PC/Mac connection!
Fully metal, compact, and serviceable chassis with thoughtful cooling and accessible internal layout - makes maintenance, upgrades and troubleshooting a complete breeze!
Compatibility with third-party OSes (TrueNAS, Unraid, Linux) without voiding warranty, offering flexibility for advanced users

CONS

MinisCloud OS is functional but immature, with unfinished localisation and limited advanced enterprise features - lacks MFA, iSCSI, Security Scanner and More. Nails several key fundamentals, but still feels unfinished at this time.
Despite External PSU design (will already annoy some users), it generates a lot of additional heat and may not appeal to all users overall
Preinstalled 64GB OS SSD runs hot under sustained use and lacks dedicated cooling. Plus, losing one of the 3 m.2 slots to it will not please everyone (most brands manage to find a way to apply an eMMC into the board more directly, or use a USB bootloader option as a gateway for their OS
Premium $1000+ pricing may be hard to justify for users who don’t need ECC memory or AI capabilities compared to the standard N5 at $500+

#3 TerraMaster F4 SSD NAS – $320 to $399

SPECS: Intel N95 quad core up to 3.4 GHz – 8 GB DDR5 (expandable to 32 GB) – 4 x M.2 2280 NVMe SSD bays – 1 x 5 GbE RJ45 / 2 x USB A 3.2 Gen 2 / 1 x USB C 3.2 Gen 2 / HDMI 2.0b – 4 x M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 slots (2 x2 / 2 x1).

The F4 SSD is an all flash NAS designed for users who want a compact, relatively low power Plex or Jellyfin server without mechanical drives. Its Intel N95 CPU and integrated graphics are sufficient for multiple 1080p and a modest number of 4K transcodes, and the 5 GbE interface allows the box to make use of higher network throughput than 1 GbE units. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 system offers a one click Plex package and container support for Jellyfin and Emby, but the interface and ecosystem are less refined than those from the largest NAS brands, and performance is ultimately limited by the entry level CPU and PCIe layout when many concurrent streams or heavier background tasks are involved.

What we said in our Aug ’25 Review HERE:

The TerraMaster F4 SSD presents itself as a well-considered entry into the compact, all-flash NAS segment, balancing low noise, energy efficiency, and competitive performance at a sub-$400 price point. With its fanless NVMe-based design, Intel N95 quad-core processor, and DDR5 memory, it meets the essential needs of home and small office users looking for a reliable and responsive storage solution. The inclusion of TerraMaster’s increasingly capable TOS 6 operating system, featuring AI-driven photo management, centralized backup, and Docker/VM support, makes it more than just a network storage device—it becomes a lightweight but versatile data center for the home. Its TRAID support allows for mixed SSD deployments with easy expansion, which is particularly attractive to users upgrading gradually or working within budget constraints. The thoughtful internal layout and cooling also ensure performance remains consistent even under sustained load, without sacrificing the near-silent operation.

However, the F4 SSD is not without caveats. The use of a single 5GbE port, without redundancy or aggregation, may deter users requiring network failover or higher throughput for simultaneous operations. Additionally, although the PCIe lane allocation strategy maximizes the N95’s limited bandwidth, the asymmetry between Gen3 x2 and x1 slots could bottleneck RAID performance depending on how volumes are configured. When compared to the larger F8 SSD or DIY options with dual 10GbE or ECC support, the F4 SSD may feel limiting to power users or business environments with stricter reliability requirements. That said, for the vast majority of home users, content creators, and prosumers looking for an all-in-one, high-speed NAS that blends well into living spaces, the F4 SSD delivers a solid and accessible solution. Its price-to-performance ratio, combined with the simplicity of deployment and maturing software ecosystem, makes it a compelling option in the growing market of SSD NAS devices.

SOFTWARE - 7/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.0

PROS

Compact, toolless chassis with easy-access thumb screw and SSD installation
All-flash NVMe architecture with support for four M.2 2280 SSDs
5GbE network port enables high-speed local and remote transfers
TRAID and TRAID+ allow mixed-capacity SSDs and seamless storage expansion
TOS 6 OS includes Plex, Jellyfin, Docker, VM support, and AI photo indexing
Quiet operation (19 dB) and low power usage (32W under load)
Priced competitively at $399 for a turnkey SSD NAS

CONS

Single 5GbE port with no failover or link aggregation
Two of the four SSD slots are limited to PCIe Gen3 x1, creating potential RAID bottlenecks
Non-ECC DDR5 memory may not meet strict data integrity requirements

#4 ZimaBoard 2 Single Board Server – $239 to $349

SPECS: Intel N150 quad core up to 3.6 GHz – 8 or 16 GB LPDDR5x – 2 x SATA 3.0 6 Gb/s ports for 3.5″/2.5″ drives (external bays or enclosures required) – 2 x 2.5 GbE RJ45 / 2 x USB 3.1 Type A / 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4 – M.2 SSD support via PCIe 3.0 x4 add in card only.

ZimaBoard 2 functions as a small, fanless compute module that can be combined with any suitable SATA enclosure or loose drives to create a highly customised Plex or Jellyfin server. It ships with ZimaOS, which exposes a NAS style interface, app catalogue and container options, so the system is usable out of the box without manually installing a general purpose Linux distribution. Dual 2.5 GbE ports and Intel Quick Sync support give it enough capability for several 1080p and selected 4K transcodes, but the absence of internal bays or native M.2 slots means storage design is entirely external, and the device is better suited to users who do not mind assembling their own chassis or reusing existing cases and drive cages.

What we said in our April ’25 Review HERE:

The ZimaBoard 2 is a competent and thoughtfully assembled single-board server that builds meaningfully on IceWhale’s earlier efforts, especially the original ZimaBoard and the ZimaBlade. Its design clearly targets users who want more flexibility and performance than traditional ARM-based boards can offer, but who also value power efficiency, silence, and a small footprint. The use of an Intel N150 CPU, 8GB of LPDDR5x memory, dual 2.5GbE ports, and a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot makes it viable for a variety of home server roles—from basic NAS and smart home coordination to lightweight container hosting and local media streaming. Features like onboard SATA, USB 3.1, and a DisplayPort connection further add to its utility. However, there are hardware limitations that may affect long-term suitability for advanced deployments. The soldered RAM cannot be upgraded, and the internal eMMC storage, while useful for initial setup, is too slow for OS-level responsiveness in more demanding use cases. Passive cooling, while appreciated for silence, also imposes some thermal limitations depending on the deployment environment.

On the software side, ZimaOS offers a decent out-of-the-box experience that caters to users with minimal technical background. It handles core tasks like application deployment, file sharing, and system monitoring without requiring advanced configuration, and its Docker-based App Store simplifies access to popular tools. For more experienced users, the system supports third-party OS installation, which is likely how many will ultimately use the ZimaBoard 2. Still, as a bundled solution, ZimaOS has matured significantly and now presents itself as a lightweight, capable, and non-intrusive platform for those who prefer to get started immediately. In the broader context of DIY server hardware, ZimaBoard 2 occupies a middle ground: more powerful and modular than Raspberry Pi-class systems, yet more constrained than full x86 mini PCs or enthusiast-grade NAS hardware. For those who understand and accept these trade-offs, and are willing to plan around its limitations, the ZimaBoard 2 offers a reliable and flexible foundation for compact, energy-efficient computing at the edge.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

9.0

PROS

x86 Architecture – Compatible with a wide range of operating systems including ZimaOS, Unraid, TrueNAS SCALE, and Proxmox.
Dual 2.5GbE LAN Ports – Offers strong networking capabilities for multi-service workloads and gateway setups.
PCIe 3.0 x4 Slot – Enables high-speed expansion for 10GbE NICs, NVMe storage, or combo cards.
Fanless, Silent Operation – Completely passively cooled, ideal for home or quiet office environments.
Compact and Durable Build – Small footprint with an all-metal chassis that doubles as a heatsink.
ZimaOS Included – User-friendly OS with a Docker-based App Store and basic VM tools, ready out of the box.
Flexible Storage Options – Dual SATA ports plus USB 3.1 support for connecting SSDs, HDDs, or external drives.
Low Power Consumption – Efficient 6W CPU with ~10W idle and ~40W max under heavy load scenarios.

CONS

Non-Upgradable RAM – 8GB of soldered LPDDR5x limits long-term scalability for memory-intensive tasks.
Slow/Small Default Internal Storage – 32GB eMMC is convenient but underperforms for OS-level responsiveness or high I/O workloads.
Thermal Headroom is Limited – Passive cooling alone may not be sufficient in closed environments or under sustained load without added airflow.
Not Launching on Traditional Retail, but instead on Crowdfunding.

#5 UGREEN NASync DH4300 Plus – $365 to $390

SPECS: Rockchip RK3588 8 core ARM (4 x Cortex A76 + 4 x Cortex A55) up to around 2.4 GHz – 8 GB DDR5 – 4 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA bays – 1 x 2.5 GbE RJ45 / HDMI 2.0b / 1 x front USB C 3.2 Gen 1 / 2 x USB A 3.2 Gen 1 – no internal M.2 SSD slots.

The NASync DH4300 Plus is a 4 bay ARM based NAS that targets users who want RAID 5 capable storage for Plex or Jellyfin along with general backup duties at a moderate price. UGREEN’s UGOS Pro operating system includes its own media apps, an app store and containerisation features, and community testing has confirmed that Plex can achieve multiple 1080p and several 4K streams, benefiting from the RK3588’s hardware video engines. There is only a single 2.5 GbE port and no M.2 cache or expansion options, so scaling is limited to the 4 SATA bays and external USB storage, but for users who prioritise RAID 5 resilience, low to mid range transcoding capacity and comparatively low power use, it fits the role of a budget multi user media and file server.

What we said in our August ’25 Review Here:

The UGREEN DH4300 Plus carves out a unique niche in the budget NAS landscape by delivering hardware typically reserved for higher-tier systems at a much lower price point. Its RK3588 processor, 8GB of RAM, and support for 2.5GbE networking place it well ahead of most similarly priced competitors in terms of raw specifications. Additionally, features such as HDMI output, 10Gbps USB ports, and local AI-powered photo indexing are rare to find in entry-level NAS systems. Despite its plastic-heavy internal design and lack of expansion options like PCIe or M.2, the device delivers stable performance for file sharing, media access, and low-intensity AI workloads. It is not suited for power users demanding virtual machines or advanced snapshot automation, but within its class, the DH4300 Plus presents an appealing balance between cost and capability.

That said, the software experience is still a work in progress. UGOS Pro covers the essentials and offers a visually accessible UI, but lacks the advanced features and ecosystem integration found in more mature platforms like Synology DSM or QNAP QTS. Docker and snapshot support add welcome flexibility, but the absence of native Jellyfin, iSCSI, and VM functionality limits its use in more complex environments. Still, for home users, media collectors, or small office setups looking for reliable backup, modest AI-enhanced photo sorting, and smooth 4K playback, the DH4300 Plus delivers value well beyond its price tag. While it won’t replace high-end NAS appliances, it serves as a capable, efficient, and quietly innovative option in a saturated entry-level NAS market.

SOFTWARE - 6/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 6/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

7.6

PROS

Powerful ARM CPU: Equipped with the RK3588 SoC, offering 8 cores, integrated GPU, and NPU for AI workloads.
Generous (but fixed!) Memory: 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, rare in budget NAS systems, supports multitasking and Docker use.
2.5GbE Network Port: Provides faster-than-Gigabit throughput for backups, media streaming, and multi-user access.
HDMI 2.1 Output: Rare on ARM powered turnkey NAS, and enables direct media playback or NAS control at up to 4K 60Hz, uncommon in value-tier NAS units.
USB 10Gbps Ports: Dual USB-A 10Gbps and one USB-C 5Gbps allow for high-speed backups or external storage expansion.
AI Photo Management: Built-in NPU supports facial recognition and scene detection for local, private media organization.
Low Power Consumption: Efficient under load (~30W) and idle (~5W without drives), suitable for 24/7 operation.

CONS

No PCIe or M.2 Expansion: Lacks future scalability for NVMe caching, 10GbE, or other upgrades.
Single LAN Port: Only one 2.5GbE port, with no failover or link aggregation support.
Limited Software Ecosystem: UGOS Pro lacks iSCSI, VM support, and native Jellyfin, trailing behind DSM/QTS in maturity.

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The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – The New $500+ NAS Standard?

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus represents a significant step forward in the brand’s 4-bay NAS lineup, targeting users who demand capable hardware and broad feature support at a mid-range price point. Retailing at $569.99, or $484.99 during its introductory discount, it is positioned to compete directly with systems like the Synology DS925+ and QNAP TS-464, both of which occupy similar price and hardware tiers. TerraMaster’s intention with this model is to deliver a “jack of all trades” device that suits both home multimedia environments and small business offices. Internally, it uses Intel’s quad-core N150 processor, part of the newer Twin Lake architecture, with a base clock of 1 GHz and a turbo frequency up to 3.6 GHz. This CPU is paired with 16GB of DDR5 memory, offering a notable upgrade in bandwidth and responsiveness compared to previous DDR4-based TerraMaster models.

Complementing that performance core are three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots and four SATA drive bays, supporting a combined raw capacity of up to 144TB when fully populated. This configuration allows the device to accommodate both large-scale HDD storage for bulk data and high-speed SSD arrays for caching or dedicated performance pools. Dual 5GbE network ports on the rear enable theoretical aggregate transfer speeds exceeding 1,000 MB/s, aligning with the system’s positioning as a performance-focused yet affordable NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system comes preinstalled, providing modernized storage management, AI-based photo organization, and security tools like HyperLock WORM protection and isolation mode. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus arrives as one of the most fully featured mid-tier NAS options available in 2025, combining strong hardware, software maturity, and quiet, power-efficient design suited to both personal and professional use cases.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus delivers one of the most complete mid-tier NAS packages currently available, balancing strong hardware, efficient design, and flexible software at a highly competitive price. Its Intel N150 processor, 16GB of DDR5 memory, and dual 5GbE ports provide ample speed for data-heavy workloads, while three M.2 NVMe slots add rare versatility for caching or SSD-based pools. The all-metal enclosure maintains low temperatures and quiet operation, and the TOS 6 operating system has matured into a capable platform with snapshot protection, Docker, virtualization, and AI photo management. Although it lacks premium details such as drive locks and redundant fans, and the interface remains less refined than Synology DSM or QNAP QTS, the F4-425 Plus stands out as a practical and forward-looking NAS. It bridges affordability and professional capability, making it suitable for home users, content creators, and small offices that need reliable, fast, and adaptable network storage.

SOFTWARE - 7/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.6

PROS

• Dual 5GbE network ports with full independent bandwidth for high-speed transfers + lots of USB-to-5GbE $30 upgrades in the market now
• Three PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 NVMe slots supporting cache or storage pool configurations
• Intel N150 processor with integrated graphics enabling 4K hardware decoding and AES-NI encryption
• 16GB DDR5 memory (expandable to 32GB) offering improved bandwidth and multitasking performance
• Full-metal chassis with efficient thermals, low noise levels, and minimal vibration
• Comprehensive RAID and storage management through TOS 6 with snapshot and HyperLock-WORM protection
• Supports Docker, virtual machines, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin natively within TOS 6
• Competitive pricing with strong value relative to Synology and QNAP alternatives

CONS

• Cheaper N150 NAS Systems have arrived earlier in 2025
• 5GbE adoption is low, so only larger 10GbE ready groups (via auto-negotiation) will enjoy the benefits of 5GbE
• TOS 6 interface and app ecosystem remain less polished than top-tier NAS platforms

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Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS
Amazon in Your Region for the Terramaster F4 SSD NAS @ $569 ($489.99 till 19th Nov)	Terramaster F4-425 PLUS – $569	B&H for the Terramaster F4-425 plus NAS @ $569.99

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Design & Storage

The exterior design of the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus maintains the brand’s familiar compact metal chassis but introduces small refinements that improve both usability and thermals. Measuring 150 by 181 by 219 millimeters and weighing just under 3 kilograms, it fits comfortably into a home office or studio setup without generating significant heat or noise. The enclosure is almost entirely metal, with a brushed silver finish that enhances rigidity and passive cooling compared with earlier plastic-faced designs. Four individual drive trays occupy the front panel, each featuring a simple click-and-load mechanism for 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch drives. Although there are no locking latches or LCD displays, the trays are tool-free and straightforward to handle. A single 120mm fan at the rear provides adjustable cooling across smart, low, and high-speed profiles, maintaining an operational noise level as low as 20.9 dB(A) when idle with drives installed, according to TerraMaster’s own test figures.

From a structural perspective, the F4-425 Plus has clearly benefited from improved thermal management. The metal shell acts as a heat spreader, with typical external temperatures ranging from 25 to 27°C across the enclosure after extended operation, even under multi-day workload testing. Internal drive bays were observed to maintain around 27 to 29°C, while the rear ports and fan area registered between 36 and 38°C during prolonged use. These figures indicate an efficient heat dissipation design, aided by the more conductive chassis material and smart fan calibration. For users concerned with energy efficiency, the power draw remains modest thanks to the Intel N150 processor’s low TDP, allowing the system to idle at roughly 13 watts with SSDs installed and scale to around 60 watts under sustained load with four enterprise-class HDDs spinning.

In terms of drive configuration, the NAS supports up to four SATA 6Gb/s drives and three M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs. This combination provides a theoretical maximum raw capacity of 144TB, assuming four 30TB HDDs and three 8TB SSDs. The inclusion of three NVMe slots rather than the more typical one or two is a notable strength. Each operates on a PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, delivering real-world throughput of approximately 800 to 900 MB/s per SSD, suitable for caching or storage pools. This setup makes it possible to allocate two drives for cache acceleration while dedicating the third to an independent SSD-based pool for high-speed operations like video editing or database hosting. Such flexibility is rare at this price point and broadens the system’s appeal to users with both large data sets and high-performance requirements.

Storage management is handled through TOS 6, TerraMaster’s web-based operating system, which supports a wide range of RAID configurations including TRAID, TRAID+, JBOD, and traditional RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. TOS 6 also enables SSD caching, snapshots, and HyperLock write-once-read-many functionality for data integrity. Users can assign storage pools to specific workloads, such as separating SSD-based scratch space from HDD archival volumes. Combined with the new graphical interface and more detailed health monitoring tools, it provides a much more transparent overview of drive temperatures, utilization, and S.M.A.R.T. status. For additional flexibility, the system supports online RAID migration and expansion, meaning users can start small and scale capacity over time without data loss.

Beyond local storage, the device integrates directly with TerraMaster’s CloudSync service, which connects to providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and Baidu Cloud. Hybrid storage configurations allow partial replication or tiered backup between the NAS and the cloud, offering an extra level of redundancy for professional workflows. External connectivity through USB 3.2 ports also supports direct backups to DAS enclosures or portable drives. Altogether, the F4-425 Plus’s design emphasizes efficient cooling, solid construction, and versatile storage architecture, making it a flexible foundation for both data-heavy projects and long-term digital archiving.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus is structured around Intel’s N150 processor, a 4-core, 4-thread CPU from the Twin Lake generation. Built on a 6W TDP architecture, this chip delivers a significant efficiency advantage over the previous N5095-based systems while offering a higher burst clock of up to 3.6 GHz. The CPU integrates Intel UHD Graphics, allowing 4K hardware decoding for H.264, H.265, VC-1, and MPEG-4, which is particularly beneficial for Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin users who want native transcoding without GPU add-ons.

This combination makes the system viable not only as a file server but also as a local multimedia hub, capable of decoding and streaming 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. Despite being a low-power chip, its instruction set includes AES-NI hardware encryption, ensuring efficient data security without notable throughput loss when encryption is enabled.

The system’s memory architecture uses a single DDR5 SO-DIMM slot, populated with a 16GB non-ECC module by default and expandable up to 32GB. The adoption of DDR5 over DDR4 marks a generational improvement in bandwidth and latency, leading to faster multitasking, smoother virtualization performance, and reduced overhead when handling multiple users or services. The memory module is non-ECC but benefits from on-die error correction at the hardware level, offering stability improvements over standard DDR4 implementations. This approach aligns with the unit’s target demographic of small offices, creators, and advanced home users who want server-grade responsiveness without enterprise complexity.

Storage connectivity within the system is distributed between four SATA III 6Gb/s interfaces managed by an ASMedia controller and three PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes dedicated to M.2 NVMe SSDs. This configuration ensures balanced throughput for simultaneous HDD and SSD activity. Internally, the layout is straightforward, providing easy access to both the memory slot and M.2 bays via the removable top panel. The power supply is a single 90W external brick, keeping internal temperatures lower and simplifying maintenance.

Together, the hardware configuration represents a thoughtful balance between efficiency, expandability, and performance, aimed at users who need consistent data access, multimedia capabilities, and reliable long-term operation without excess noise or heat.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus offers a broad range of connectivity designed to meet both high-speed networking and general expansion needs. On the rear panel, two 5GbE RJ-45 network ports serve as the central performance feature. These are among the first dual 5GbE implementations in a mid-tier NAS, and each port operates through its own dedicated PCIe 3.0 x1 lane, avoiding bandwidth contention. In testing, each port achieved full theoretical throughput, confirming proper lane allocation. Users can enable link aggregation or SMB multichannel for multi-user workloads, although saturating both ports simultaneously requires fast SSD or hybrid storage configurations. These ports support IPv4/IPv6, VLAN tagging, link aggregation, and Wake-on-LAN, making the system suitable for both small office environments and direct workstation connections.

Complementing the network interfaces, the F4-425 Plus includes four USB 3.2 ports: three Type-A and one Type-C, all operating at 10Gbps. These ports can handle external DAS enclosures, UPS devices, or high-capacity backup drives. The inclusion of a front-mounted USB port improves convenience for ad hoc backups or quick file transfers, addressing a long-standing omission in earlier TerraMaster models. Additionally, an HDMI 2.1 output is positioned on the rear, though its practical use remains limited within TOS, which lacks a native display interface. It may, however, prove useful for third-party operating systems such as Unraid or TrueNAS, where direct console access or local media playback is desired.

Overall, the port layout is clean and efficient, optimized for straightforward cable management. The system’s single large fan sits adjacent to the networking array, allowing for effective airflow without excessive cable obstruction. Power is supplied through a standard barrel connector linked to an external 90W adapter, which helps reduce internal heat buildup. Though it lacks built-in 10GbE or PCIe expansion, the dual 5GbE setup provides more than enough bandwidth for its class, especially when paired with NVMe caching. Users can also connect the NAS to TerraMaster’s USB-based DAS units for storage expansion or off-site replication, offering flexibility without compromising portability or noise levels.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Tests, Noise, Heat and Power Consumption

Performance testing on the TerraMaster F4-425 Plus showed that the system comfortably meets its advertised speed class, particularly when networked over a single 5GbE connection. Using four Toshiba MG-series 7200 RPM enterprise hard drives configured in RAID 5, the system achieved full saturation of one 5GbE port during both AJA and ATTO benchmark tests, reaching consistent read and write speeds around 500 to 520 MB/s. When tested with mixed media files totaling 50.5 GB, it completed the transfer in approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds, equating to an average throughput of about 224 MB/s.

This is a strong result for a mechanical-drive setup, reflecting efficient caching and balanced SATA bandwidth. SMB Multichannel and link aggregation are supported, though the CPU’s available PCIe lanes limit simultaneous dual-port saturation. Even so, the system handles multiple concurrent transfers and backups without a noticeable decline in throughput.

Testing with NVMe SSDs improved overall responsiveness considerably. The three M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots each sustained sequential transfer rates between 800 and 900 MB/s, allowing the NAS to maintain a high level of random IOPS for metadata-heavy workloads. When used as cache devices, these drives accelerated small-file transfers and application access times, especially when paired with the system’s 16GB of DDR5 memory.

TerraMaster’s TOS 6 supports flexible use of these drives, enabling independent storage pools or hybrid cache layers, depending on the task. In sustained transfers over SMB and iSCSI, the system achieved write speeds close to 950 MB/s and reads near 1020 MB/s when using SSD-based arrays, validating the advantage of dual 5GbE interfaces for all-flash or mixed-tier environments.

Power consumption during operation remained modest, aligning with the platform’s efficient design. With no hard drives installed and three SSDs active, idle draw measured around 13.3 watts. Adding four 7200 RPM HDDs increased idle power to 55 watts and full-load consumption to roughly 61–63 watts under concurrent read/write activity. These figures indicate a well-balanced design that prioritizes power efficiency without restricting performance. Fan speed settings affect both thermals and acoustics predictably: in low-speed mode, the NAS operated near 33 dB(A), while mid and high-speed profiles raised that figure to 37 and 39 dB(A) respectively. During heavy disk operations, readings peaked briefly at around 43 dB(A), which is reasonable given the metal chassis and high-RPM drives used in testing.

Thermal results further underscored the system’s stability. Surface readings from the aluminum body remained between 25°C and 27°C on average, while drive bays hovered at 28–30°C after extended workload sessions. The rear fan exhaust area reached approximately 36–38°C under sustained load. The efficient heat dispersion of the chassis prevented thermal throttling during prolonged transfers or virtualization testing, even with all seven storage devices active. This consistent temperature range indicates that TerraMaster’s choice of single-fan cooling and full-metal housing achieves a practical balance between noise, airflow, and longevity.

The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The TerraMaster F4-425 Plus demonstrates how far the company’s mid-range NAS lineup has progressed in terms of hardware refinement and real-world usability. By combining Intel’s efficient N150 processor with 16GB of DDR5 memory, dual 5GbE connectivity, and triple M.2 NVMe slots, it provides a specification normally reserved for higher-priced units. The build quality, centered around a full-metal chassis and quiet cooling design, contributes to consistent thermals and low power usage even under multi-day workloads. While the design omits premium touches like drive locks or redundant fans, the emphasis on practicality and efficient cooling makes it a dependable solution for continuous operation. From a user experience perspective, the integration of TOS 6 represents TerraMaster’s most stable and capable operating system to date, offering improved security features, cloud synchronization tools, snapshot management, and flexible storage configurations that appeal to both home and small office users.

From a value standpoint, the F4-425 Plus stands out as one of the most competitively priced NAS units in its category. At $569.99, or $484.99 during the initial discount period, it delivers strong network and storage performance that aligns closely with rivals from Synology and QNAP while retaining open installation flexibility for third-party platforms such as Unraid or TrueNAS. Its combination of high-speed connectivity, compact design, and mature software environment makes it an appealing option for anyone seeking a 4-bay system capable of multitasking across media streaming, data backup, and light virtualization. Although it cannot fully match the polish of Synology DSM or the plugin ecosystem of QNAP QTS, TerraMaster has successfully positioned this device as a bridge between affordability and professional performance, solidifying its place as one of the more balanced NAS releases of 2025.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS
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Terramaster F4-425 PLUS (and F2-425 PLUS) NAS Coming Soon

The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS (8 GB, priced around US$399) and F4-425 PLUS (16 GB, priced around US$569) represent Terramaster’s latest step forward in its midrange NAS portfolio, arriving near the end of 2025 as a response to the growing competition from brands such as QNAP, Synology, UGREEN, and Asustor. Both models share the same Intel N150 quad-core processor running up to 3.6 GHz, use DDR5 memory, and include multiple M.2 NVMe slots, positioning them well above Terramaster’s previous generation of Celeron-based systems. The F4-425 PLUS is a four-bay platform that expands on the two-bay F2-425 PLUS by offering higher throughput and significantly greater storage flexibility, making it suitable for heavier workloads and multi-user environments. Terramaster appears to have used this release to redefine what can be expected in the $400–$600 NAS tier, especially by including dual 5 GbE network ports, three NVMe SSD slots, and native hardware transcoding for 4K and even 8K content through integrated Intel UHD graphics. Together these systems aim to deliver competitive all-in-one solutions for home and small-office users who require reliable local backup, multimedia streaming, and virtualization support without moving into enterprise-grade pricing.

Note – The Terramaster F4-425 PLUS and F2-425 PLUS NAS have now been launched, and are available to buy HERE for $569 and HERE for $399 (with 15% off as an introductory price till November 21st)

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS & F2-425 PLUS NAS Hardware Specifications

Terramaster’s F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS NAS units share a unified hardware architecture centered on Intel’s N150 processor, part of the Twin Lake family. This 4-core, 4-thread CPU operates at a base clock of 1.0 GHz and boosts up to 3.6 GHz, with integrated Intel UHD graphics that support hardware acceleration for 4K and 8K video decoding. While the N150 is not a high-power processor by desktop standards, it provides excellent balance between performance and efficiency for NAS workloads such as Plex or Jellyfin media streaming, file indexing, and lightweight virtualization. The use of this chip also aligns Terramaster’s lineup with newer offerings from competitors who have adopted similar architectures in their 2025 models.

The memory configuration has moved to DDR5, marking a notable generational shift from the DDR4 modules used in previous Terramaster systems. The F2-425 PLUS includes 8 GB of DDR5, while the F4-425 PLUS doubles this to 16 GB, both expandable up to 32 GB. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth and reduced latency, which benefits multitasking environments, particularly when running Docker containers, multiple user sessions, or AI-driven indexing services such as local photo recognition. This upgrade positions the new PLUS series closer to the performance levels found in more expensive NAS systems while maintaining efficient power draw and thermal output. In terms of storage capacity, the F4-425 PLUS can house up to four 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, while the smaller F2-425 PLUS accommodates two. Both models also integrate three M.2 NVMe slots, allowing up to 8 TB per SSD and enabling users to reach a maximum combined capacity of approximately 144 TB in the four-bay model. Terramaster’s hybrid storage design allows these NVMe drives to serve either as a dedicated storage pool or as cache acceleration for HDD volumes, giving users flexibility to prioritize capacity or performance. The inclusion of three M.2 slots is unusual at this price tier and stands out against most two- and four-bay competitors, which typically provide only two.

For network connectivity, Terramaster has equipped both models with dual 5 GbE ports. This configuration effectively doubles the throughput available in the previous 2.5 GbE generation and can deliver an aggregated bandwidth of up to 10 Gbps through link aggregation. Although the lack of a dedicated 10 GbE port might limit direct single-link transfers, the two 5 GbE ports provide redundancy, failover, and multi-user performance advantages. Both models also include a front-mounted USB-C port and rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A connectors for high-speed external backups and peripheral connections, reflecting a refinement in Terramaster’s chassis design compared with earlier models that relied solely on rear ports.

Cooling and chassis design remain consistent with Terramaster’s recent metal-based enclosures, using active fan ventilation with independent drive bay access. The F4-425 PLUS features dual rear fans to maintain airflow across four bays, while the F2-425 PLUS employs a single high-efficiency unit. The new layout provides improved front-to-rear ventilation and easier access to drive trays. Internally, the systems do not include a PCIe expansion slot, which limits the potential for GPU or high-speed NIC upgrades but simplifies internal lane allocation for the CPU’s nine available PCIe lanes. Terramaster appears to have distributed these lanes between the three M.2 interfaces and dual network controllers to maintain balanced throughput across all functions.

How the F4-425 PLUS Compares with QNAP TS-464 and Synology DS425+

The QNAP TS-464 is built around the Intel Celeron N5095, a 4-core, 4-thread processor that can boost up to 2.9 GHz, and ships with 8 GB of DDR4 memory. It supports four SATA bays plus M.2 expansion and includes dual 2.5 GbE ports that can be aggregated for improved bandwidth. QNAP’s system benefits from a mature software ecosystem, offering HDMI output, virtualization support, and extensive backup tools. In performance testing, it delivers sequential speeds around 560 MB/s under RAID 5, limited mainly by network bandwidth. Compared with the F4-425 PLUS, the TS-464 offers stronger software flexibility and PCIe expandability, but its networking hardware is slower and it relies on older memory standards.

The Synology DS425+ takes a more conservative hardware route, using the Intel Celeron J4125 with four cores running at 2.0 GHz base and 2.7 GHz burst. It includes 2 GB of DDR4 memory, expandable to 6 GB, and offers one 2.5 GbE port alongside a 1 GbE port. Two M.2 NVMe slots are available but only for cache acceleration, not full storage pools. Sequential throughput typically reaches about 280 MB/s for reads and writes. Against the F4-425 PLUS, Synology’s system trails in memory, raw processing speed, and throughput potential, but maintains an advantage in software polish and long-term reliability through DSM integration.

In side-by-side terms, the F4-425 PLUS aims for a higher performance envelope. Its dual 5 GbE ports deliver aggregate throughput potential far beyond both the QNAP and Synology options, and its DDR5 memory with three M.2 NVMe slots allows flexible caching or tiered storage setups uncommon at this price tier. The trade-off lies in expandability and software maturity, where QNAP’s platform remains more modular and Synology’s DSM ecosystem offers more stability. For users focused on performance-per-dollar, the F4-425 PLUS introduces hardware that surpasses both competitors on paper, though long-term evaluation will depend on software development under TOS 6.

Terramaster TOS 6 Software

The F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS both ship with TOS 6, Terramaster’s latest operating system that replaces the earlier TOS 5 platform across its new generation of NAS hardware. TOS 6 introduces a redesigned interface with improved responsiveness and a more modular layout intended to reduce latency during multitasking.

It expands Terramaster’s range of built-in applications to include enhanced TRAID and TRAID+ hybrid array configurations, snapshot scheduling, and real-time data synchronization features. Backup utilities such as Duple Backup, Centralized Backup, TerraSync, and CloudSync provide integration across local drives, offsite NAS devices, and major cloud providers. The system also integrates hardware-assisted AES-NI encryption, supporting secure data transmission over 256-bit TLS and optional two-factor authentication. Although its design remains more lightweight than QNAP’s QTS or Synology’s DSM, it is notably faster to load and more accessible to new users.

Beyond core management tools, TOS 6 also incorporates AI-assisted photo management and multimedia indexing designed to run locally rather than relying on external cloud resources. Its facial, object, and scene recognition algorithms operate entirely on the NAS, avoiding external data transfers while maintaining privacy for personal collections. The OS additionally supports Docker and VirtualBox, enabling light virtualization tasks or deployment of third-party services without command-line setup.

Multimedia servers such as Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin can use Intel’s integrated graphics for hardware decoding, improving playback efficiency in 4K and 8K environments. While TOS 6 still trails mature ecosystems in app diversity, it delivers steady progress toward matching more established competitors, particularly for backup, synchronization, and AI-driven photo organization.

Verdict? The New4-Bay NAS Score to Beat?

The Terramaster F2-425 PLUS and F4-425 PLUS introduce a considerable upgrade to the company’s mid-tier NAS range, setting new expectations for what users can expect at the $400–$600 level. Both models adopt the Intel N150 processor, DDR5 memory, and dual 5 GbE networking, bringing performance that previously required higher-priced hardware. The F4-425 PLUS, in particular, combines four SATA bays with three M.2 NVMe slots, creating one of the most storage-flexible designs in its category. This configuration makes it a practical option for users who require hybrid pools or tiered caching but prefer to remain within consumer-level power and cost limits. Terramaster’s decision to include high-speed networking and DDR5 support at this price point demonstrates an emphasis on raw throughput and bandwidth efficiency, although it comes at the expense of PCIe expandability. From a broader market perspective, the F4-425 PLUS positions Terramaster competitively against alternatives from QNAP and Synology, trading ecosystem maturity for stronger base hardware. TOS 6 continues to evolve, offering usable AI-based media tools, secure backup systems, and local synchronization features. The platform still lacks some advanced management functions and third-party integrations seen in more established ecosystems, yet it now provides sufficient stability and depth for both professional and enthusiast users. Overall, the F4-425 PLUS presents an incremental but strategically significant advancement in Terramaster’s NAS design philosophy, marking a shift toward higher efficiency and versatility within its compact, consumer-oriented systems.

Terramaster F4-425 PLUS NAS – $569 (15% OFF at Launch till 19th Nov)	Terramaster F2-425 PLUS NAS – $399 (15% OFF at Launch till 19th Nov)

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GMKTec G9 NAS (New Improved Cooling Version) Review

Important – My original review of the GMKTec G9 NAS in it’s original design can be found HERE on YouTube and HERE on the NASCompares blog.

The GMKTec G9 NucBox NAS has re-emerged in mid-2025 with a revised cooling design, following a wave of thermal criticism directed at the original release earlier in the year. Still marketed as an SSD-only NAS aimed at home and small office environments, the G9 maintains its core identity—a compact enclosure powered by Intel’s N150 quad-core processor, soldered LPDDR5 memory, and four M.2 NVMe SSD bays. The G9’s primary appeal continues to be its affordability, silent operation, and dual-use flexibility as both a NAS and lightweight desktop system, thanks to the inclusion of Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu out of the box. However, early buyers and reviewers, including this channel, highlighted persistent thermal issues affecting SSD performance and overall system reliability under load, leading to thermal throttling even during idle states in warmer environments.

In response, GMKTec has issued an updated version of the G9 that retains the same form factor, internal hardware, and I/O but incorporates enhanced passive ventilation on the side and top panels. Though subtle at first glance, these structural changes are designed to improve airflow over the CPU and SSD compartments without increasing noise levels or power draw. In this updated review, we will revisit all aspects of the G9’s design, connectivity, and system behaviour under continuous load, while highlighting what exactly has changed and what remains untouched. The new G9 model introduces targeted thermal improvements, but beyond ventilation, it leaves the original architecture and feature set entirely intact.

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The improved GMKTec G9 NAS represents a targeted refinement rather than a full redesign, addressing the primary weakness of the original model: inadequate thermal performance. The updated version introduces enlarged ventilation cutouts on the top panel above the CPU fan and replaces the pinhole rear exhaust with a wider mesh, leading to measurable but modest reductions in system temperatures. In 48-hour test scenarios using UnRAID with hourly backup tasks, SSDs without heatsinks in the original unit reached idle temperatures of 66–67°C, while the revised model brought this down to 56–57°C. CPU vent temperatures similarly dropped from 54–56°C to 50–52°C, and rear I/O areas cooled by 5–7°C. These improvements enhance stability during sustained I/O activity but do not eliminate the need for additional SSD cooling—particularly in environments where ambient heat or multi-user access is expected. Internally, the hardware remains unchanged: Intel N150 CPU, 12GB of non-upgradable LPDDR5 memory, four PCIe Gen 3 x2 M.2 NVMe bays, and dual 2.5GbE ports, with storage and network throughput consistent with entry-level expectations. Power consumption remains efficient (19–30W), and noise levels stay low at under 40dB, making it suitable for always-on deployment. However, the continued use of a plastic chassis and base panel still limits effective heat dissipation, and the absence of thermal sensors or fan curve controls further limits its thermal adaptability. Compared to the Xyber Hydra—featuring a metal base, better SSD thermal contact, and 16GB RAM—the G9 now performs better than before but still falls short of what its hardware could achieve with more thoughtful engineering. For users willing to invest in SSD heatsinks and mindful of its limitations, the G9 is now a reasonably balanced entry NAS, though not the strongest performer in its tier.

BUILD QUALITY - 6/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 6/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 9/10

7.6

PROS

Affordable price point for a 4-bay NVMe NAS with dual 2.5GbE (typically under $200).
Support for up to 32TB of SSD storage across four M.2 NVMe slots.
Low power consumption (19W idle, ~30W under load) suitable for 24/7 operation.
Improved passive airflow design compared to the original model (lower overall temps).
Dual USB-C power input options for flexible cable management.
Silent operation, even during sustained activity (under 40dB).
Pre-installed OS (Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu) allows for flexible initial use.
Compact, space-saving enclosure ideal for desktop setups or constrained environments.

CONS

Cooling Improvements are relatively small and No bundled SSD heatsinks, making thermal throttling likely without aftermarket cooling.
Non-upgradable 12GB LPDDR5 RAM limits scalability for heavier workloads.
Plastic chassis and base panel still hinder full thermal dissipation from SSDs.
The Introduction of other NAS such as the Beelink ME Mini and Xyber Hydra has provided appealing alternatives to this device right now

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Design and Storage

The GMKTec G9 continues to use a compact, matte-black plastic chassis that is closer in design to a mini PC enclosure than a traditional NAS. The vertical design conserves desk space, and the front-facing panel remains clean and understated, with no visible drive trays or status indicators beyond the power button and basic branding. As with the original model, the chassis sacrifices the durability and thermal advantages of metal in favour of a lightweight, cost-efficient build. This makes the device appealing for users with space constraints, but it also signals the system’s budget positioning. The plastic enclosure, while solid enough for day-to-day use, is not especially resistant to heat buildup during sustained I/O operations, which remains one of its most persistent limitations.

Internally, the system supports four M.2 NVMe SSDs, each connected via PCIe Gen 3 x2 lanes. This setup allows up to 32TB of total SSD storage, assuming the use of high-capacity 8TB NVMe drives. The use of SSDs rather than traditional 2.5″ or 3.5″ hard drives enables near-silent operation, faster access times, and lower power consumption. However, SSD-only NAS designs like this one typically require better airflow and heatsinking to mitigate thermal throttling—especially during RAID operations or when used as a media server with multiple concurrent reads and writes. The G9 supports basic RAID via third-party NAS OSs, but due to PCIe lane limitations and lack of onboard RAID management, advanced configurations will rely entirely on software.

One of the primary complaints in the original model was the absence of SSD heatsinks and the system’s poor natural heat dissipation. While pre-built units from GMKTec occasionally shipped with low-profile aluminum heatsinks, user-added drives often ran hot, especially under sustained write loads. The M.2 slots sit stacked vertically inside a cramped compartment behind the lower rear panel, and when combined with a sealed plastic baseplate, heat quickly accumulates. This design still persists in the new version, and although airflow has been improved through the external vents, the interior thermal behaviour remains heavily dependent on user-supplied heatsinks and ambient cooling conditions. Users deploying high-endurance SSDs or running frequent write-intensive tasks will need to factor this into their thermal strategy.

The internal layout is efficient but fixed. There are no modular trays or hot-swap capabilities for the SSDs, and all upgrades must be performed by opening the device. Memory is soldered and therefore non-upgradable, and while there’s internal eMMC storage used for the pre-installed OS, most users will opt to install TrueNAS, UnRAID, or OpenMediaVault onto one of the NVMe drives for full NAS functionality. The passive cooling approach is unchanged in its core design: two internal fans (one for CPU, one system) move air through the case, but without direct thermal contact to the SSDs or a conductive enclosure material, this airflow has limited reach. Placement of the unit in a well-ventilated space remains essential.

The only real physical design changes in the new version are to the external ventilation panels. GMKTec has replaced the original pinhole-style vent on the rear side with a wider mesh grille, which now spans a greater portion of the side panel. Additionally, the top panel has been revised to include a broader cutout directly above the CPU fan, allowing a clearer exhaust path for rising hot air. However, the plastic base and internal heat chamber structure remain unchanged, meaning SSD temperatures are still a potential concern—especially without aftermarket cooling. The updated G9 retains the same core storage architecture as the original, but introduces modest improvements to airflow via enhanced external ventilation.

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

At the center of the GMKTec G9 is the Intel N150 processor, a quad-core, four-thread CPU built on the 10nm Twice Lake architecture. Designed for ultra-efficient computing, it operates at a modest 6W TDP, making it ideal for passive or semi-passive cooling environments like compact NAS systems. The N150 runs at a 1.0GHz base frequency and boosts up to 3.6GHz under load, delivering just enough headroom for tasks like SMB/NFS sharing, low-volume web hosting, and basic media playback. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics support up to 4K at 60Hz output via HDMI or USB-C DisplayPort alt mode, though without hardware acceleration for modern codecs like AV1, its suitability for on-the-fly transcoding is limited. The CPU also lacks advanced server-grade features like ECC memory support, SR-IOV, or high-bandwidth PCIe 4.0 lanes, which reflects its role in cost-conscious, entry-level applications.

The onboard 12GB of LPDDR5-4800 memory is soldered and cannot be replaced or upgraded, a design choice that simplifies manufacturing and keeps costs down but limits versatility in heavier multitasking scenarios. In practice, the memory is sufficient for running one or two lightweight NAS services alongside file sharing, or even a basic Docker container or two, but its soldered configuration leaves no room for future expansion. Notably, the memory is dual-channel, which does help offset some performance constraints—especially in scenarios where the integrated graphics or CPU requires memory bandwidth access. While most users won’t hit the ceiling of 12GB under standard NAS tasks, advanced setups involving active sync with cloud platforms, large-scale Plex libraries, or multiple concurrent rsync/FTP sessions could find the limitation restrictive. Also, unlike some similarly priced competitors, there’s no accessible BIOS option to reserve RAM for cache acceleration, which could have improved responsiveness under heavier I/O loads.

In terms of storage hardware, the G9 offers four M.2 NVMe slots with PCIe Gen 3 x2 interfaces, a configuration that supports up to 32TB of total storage using current consumer-grade drives. Each slot is keyed for M-Key NVMe SSDs and arranged vertically inside the enclosure, though installation requires unscrewing the rear panel and working within the confined internal cavity. The system’s internal PCIe lane distribution is handled through multiple ASMedia ASM1182e switch chips, which divide the CPU’s limited PCIe bandwidth across all four NVMe slots and the dual 2.5GbE interfaces. While the Gen 3 x2 interface is technically capable of 2GB/s per slot, real-world speeds are often lower during concurrent access due to the shared architecture.

This design also limits SSD passthrough capabilities in virtualized environments, and users aiming for high-speed SSD RAID configurations (RAID 5 or 10, for example) may encounter inconsistent write speeds. Additionally, there is no hardware-level thermal throttling safeguard tied to fan curves or SSD temperature sensors, so thermal build-up under load could directly affect sustained throughput unless active cooling measures are installed. The internal hardware of the improved GMKTec G9 remains completely unchanged from the original release—no CPU, RAM, SSD slot layout, or controller chip has been altered in the updated version.

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The GMKTec G9 offers a well-rounded I/O configuration that reflects its hybrid role as both a compact NAS and lightweight desktop appliance. It features two 2.5GbE LAN ports, both of which are directly linked to the CPU via PCIe lanes and can be configured for link aggregation, failover, or isolated network segments. In real-world testing, these ports easily saturate their 312MB/s bandwidth under SMB and iSCSI workloads, making the G9 more capable than traditional Gigabit NAS units. The absence of 10GbE is notable, especially for users planning to deploy NVMe RAID arrays or work in content-heavy environments, but at this price point and power envelope, dual 2.5GbE is still a competitive offering. Notably, both NICs support Wake-on-LAN (WoL), making the system convenient for remote access or low-power automation setups.

For peripheral and expansion support, the G9 includes three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports and a single USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, each capable of 10Gbps data transfer. The USB-C port also supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, allowing it to function as an additional video output alongside the two HDMI 2.0 ports on the rear panel. These HDMI ports support 4K resolution at 60Hz and are positioned for users who may wish to operate the G9 as a silent desktop system or a local media playback device via Kodi, Jellyfin, or Plex. However, the G9 does not include USB 4.0, Thunderbolt, or PCIe expandability, limiting options for future upgrades such as external GPUs, additional NICs, or DAS enclosures. In testing, connected peripherals such as USB drives and webcams were recognized instantly under Ubuntu and Windows, confirming basic plug-and-play compatibility.

Power delivery is handled via USB-C PD input, using a 65W external power brick that ships with the unit. Uniquely, the updated G9 introduces a small but notable change: dual USB-C power input points, allowing users to select which side of the device receives the power cable. This change doesn’t increase power capacity or enable redundancy, but it can improve cable management depending on the G9’s orientation on a desk or shelf. However, using one of the USB-C ports for power inherently sacrifices a high-speed data port—an unfortunate trade-off given the unit’s lack of PCIe or expansion bays. No dedicated power switch is present; the unit powers on via the front button or Wake-on-LAN and remains always-on unless shut down via software or OS-level scripts. Compared with the original G9, the only change to I/O is the addition of the second USB-C power input for layout flexibility—otherwise, all ports, speeds, and layout remain the same.

Port Type	Quantity	Specification
2.5GbE LAN	2	Realtek RTL8125, Link Aggregation Supported
USB-A 3.2 Gen 2	3	10Gbps, Backward Compatible
USB-C 3.2 Gen 2	1 (+1 PD)	10Gbps, DisplayPort Alt Mode
HDMI 2.0	2	4K @ 60Hz
Power Input (USB-C)	2	65W USB-C PD (Only 1 used at a time)
Wake-on-LAN	Supported	Both NICs
Audio	None	No 3.5mm jack or digital out

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Tests and Performance

In synthetic and real-world benchmarks, the GMKTec G9 delivers the level of performance expected from an Intel N150 system with PCIe Gen 3 x2 storage. Read speeds per drive peaked around 1.4–1.5GB/s, aligning well with the theoretical limit of the x2 interface. Write speeds were notably more volatile, ranging between 400–600MB/s depending on SSD type, ambient temperature, and active processes. These numbers, while adequate for file serving, backups, and Docker apps, showed clear limitations when the system was pushed into simultaneous multi-disk writes or parity-based RAID configurations. The presence of ASMedia ASM1182e PCIe switches likely contributes to this variance, as downstream PCIe allocation under pressure introduces contention among the SSD lanes. In typical NAS tasks like SMB and NFS file transfers, however, performance remained consistent and stable, particularly when network activity was confined to single-user access or sequential transfers.

Thermal behaviour is where the most scrutiny falls, given the G9’s original design flaws. Under a controlled 48-hour test using UnRAID with scheduled hourly backups and mixed-use read/write activity, the older G9 unit routinely idled at 54–56°C, with peaks of 66–67°C on SSDs lacking heatsinks.

The improved model saw modest thermal gains, with idle temps reduced to 50–52°C at the CPU vent and around 56–57°C on the SSD layer. Some of this improvement came from the revised ventilation—namely the expanded top-panel fan cutout and rear-side mesh panel—yet the base remained the same thermally isolated plastic panel, and internal fan hardware remained unchanged.

Notably, temperatures around the rear I/O ports dropped by 5–7°C between versions, suggesting that airflow efficiency around the motherboard has improved even if core thermal load remains a challenge.

In terms of noise and power, the G9 performs admirably. Even under load, fan noise remained below 40dB, with idle operation being nearly silent. Power consumption remained within the expected range—19–21W idle and up to 30W under continuous activity—even during the 48-hour write test.

BIOS-level tuning is possible and can slightly reduce power draw or adjust fan thresholds, but no advanced power scaling or fan curve customization is exposed via software in stock OS images. More demanding operating systems like TrueNAS Scale ran stably on the G9 but did little to mitigate thermal behaviour, reinforcing the importance of user-added SSD heatsinks regardless of OS.

The lack of thermal sensors per SSD slot or fan feedback control means sustained operations should be closely monitored in hotter climates or enclosed environments.

Nowhere is the conversation about thermal and hardware design more relevant than in comparison to the Xyber Hydra, a near-identical system that appears to share much of its component sourcing with the G9—right down to the GMK-branded fans. The Hydra ships with 16GB of DDR5 memory, a metal base panel, and most notably, a thermal pad that bridges SSDs to the metal shell, allowing for actual heat transfer rather than passive convection. In direct tests, the Hydra consistently posted 5–10°C lower SSD temps under identical workload, with idle SSDs (no heatsinks) registering around 47–49°C versus 56–57°C in the improved G9.

Though the Hydra lacks branding clarity around its manufacturer, the design appears to be what the G9 should have evolved into: same layout and CPU, but better thermals, more memory, and more thought put into SSD dissipation. In conclusion, while the improved GMKTec G9 offers better thermals than its predecessor, the Xyber Hydra outperforms both G9 variants in every thermal category, making it the superior choice if cooling and memory capacity are priorities.

GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The GMKTec G9, in its improved form, shows that the brand has listened—albeit cautiously—to thermal concerns raised by users and reviewers of the original model. The changes introduced in this updated version are minimal but measurable: better ventilation on the top panel and side mesh grille allow modest airflow gains, which result in lower surface and SSD temperatures across the board. Yet, GMKTec has stopped short of making any internal or structural upgrades that would more directly resolve thermal issues, such as introducing a metal baseplate, bundling SSD heatsinks, or adjusting the system’s internal fan architecture. All other hardware elements—CPU, memory, SSD configuration, I/O, BIOS, and software readiness—remain identical. As a result, while the device performs better in heat dissipation than before, it does so by a margin that may not justify an upgrade for existing G9 users. First-time buyers, however, may find it to be a safer choice now—particularly when paired with aftermarket heatsinks and used in moderate workloads.

However, the presence of the Xyber Hydra in the same price bracket poses a critical challenge to the G9’s value proposition. Offering the same N150 CPU, more memory, and a far superior thermal design with an integrated metal heat-spreading base, the Hydra addresses nearly every lingering complaint about the G9 without altering the system’s core layout. For prospective buyers deciding between the two, the G9’s only advantages now lie in its wider availability, slightly more recognizable branding, and marginally more mature firmware support. If those factors matter less than thermal reliability, long-term SSD health, and RAM headroom, then the Hydra is the more complete solution. Ultimately, the improved GMKTec G9 is a more stable and better-performing version of its former self, but its restrained upgrades feel like a missed opportunity in a market where near-clones have already moved ahead in meaningful ways.

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