Is the Samsung 9100 Pro SSD Your DREAM Gen5 SSD?

Samsung has officially entered the PCIe 5.0 market with the release of the 9100 PRO Series SSD, its first high-performance consumer Gen 5 NVMe SSD. Unlike previous Samsung SSD releases that focused on mainstream users, this drive is built for professionals, power users, and AI-driven workloads. Featuring sequential read speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s and write speeds reaching 13,400 MB/s, the 9100 PRO is aimed at content creators, data analysts, and enterprise users who require fast and reliable storage solutions. Available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and an upcoming 8TB model, this SSD is one of the highest-capacity consumer NVMe drives ever released by Samsung. With Samsung’s in-house controller, V-NAND TLC (V8) flash memory, and LPDDR4X DRAM-based caching, the 9100 PRO is designed to offer both high-speed data transfer and long-term durability. Power efficiency has also been improved by up to 49% compared to its predecessor, the 990 PRO, making it a more energy-conscious choice for intensive applications. However, despite its impressive technical specifications, the 9100 PRO enters a market where PCIe 5.0 SSDs have been available for nearly two years from competitors such as Seagate and Crucial. This review will assess whether Samsung’s late entry to the Gen 5 SSD market delivers a significant performance advantage or whether its delayed release puts it at a competitive disadvantage. In this review, we will examine the hardware and design of the 9100 PRO, compare it against Samsung’s previous generation 990 EVO and EVO Plus SSDs, and analyze its performance across multiple benchmarks to determine if it truly offers a measurable advantage over existing PCIe 5.0 SSDs. Finally, we will consider its pricing and availability, and whether this drive is a worthwhile investment for users looking to upgrade their storage solutions in 2025.

Samsung 9100 SSD Review – Quick Conclusion

The Samsung 9100 PRO SSD is a true PCIe 5.0 Gen4x4 drive, delivering industry-leading speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s read and 13,400 MB/s write, making it one of the fastest consumer SSDs available. Unlike many competitors using third-party controllers from Phison and Micron NAND, the 9100 PRO is fully in-house, featuring Samsung’s Presto PCIe 5.0 controller and V-NAND TLC (V8) for tighter hardware-firmware integration, improved power efficiency (up to 49% better than earlier Gen5 SSDs), and high endurance (up to 4,800 TBW on the 8TB model). Random performance is excellent, reaching 2,200K IOPS read and 2,600K IOPS write, making it a strong choice for AI workloads, video production, and large-scale data processing. However, heat remains a challenge, as the drive can reach 81°C under sustained workloads, requiring active cooling or Samsung’s optional heatsink model. Pricing is premium, with some PCIe 5.0 competitors offering similar speeds at lower costs due to earlier releases. Additionally, while Samsung has a strong reputation for SSD reliability, firmware issues in past models like the 990 PRO and 980 PRO have left some users cautious. Despite these drawbacks, the 9100 PRO stands out as one of the most refined PCIe 5.0 SSDs, offering a high-endurance, fully in-house solution for demanding users.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 9/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

8.2

PROS

Industry-Leading Speed – Offers sequential read speeds up to 14,800 MB/s and write speeds up to 13,400 MB/s, making it one of the fastest consumer SSDs available.

Fully In-House Design – Uses Samsung’s proprietary Presto PCIe 5.0 controller and V-NAND TLC (V8), avoiding reliance on third-party controllers like Phison and Micron NAND, ensuring better hardware-firmware integration.

High Endurance Rating – Provides up to 4,800 TBW on the 8TB model, making it ideal for high-intensity workloads like AI computing, video editing, and large-scale data transfers.

Improved Power Efficiency – Samsung claims 49% better power efficiency compared to previous PCIe 5.0 SSDs, reducing heat output and improving overall energy consumption.

Strong Random Performance – With up to 2,200K IOPS random read and 2,600K IOPS random write, it excels in workloads that involve frequent small file transactions, such as databases, virtual machines, and AI training models.

Multiple Capacity Options – Available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB, making it one of the first consumer PCIe 5.0 SSDs with an 8TB variant.

Heatsink Version Available – Samsung provides an optional D8-compliant heatsink, ensuring better thermal regulation for sustained performance, especially for gaming consoles like PlayStation 5.

A True Gen 5 SSD – Unlike the safe and comparatively underwhelming Samsung 990 EVO Plus, which only utilized PCIe 5.0 x2 lanes, the 9100 PRO fully utilizes PCIe 5.0 x4, delivering real next-generation speeds.

CONS

High Thermal Output – Can reach 81°C under sustained workloads, requiring adequate cooling solutions, either through the heatsink model or third-party cooling options.

Premium Pricing – Enters a PCIe 5.0 market where some competitors offer similar speeds at lower prices due to their earlier release, making it a costly investment for budget-conscious users.

Samsung’s Firmware History – While Samsung has a strong reputation for SSD reliability, previous firmware issues in the 990 PRO and 980 PRO raised concerns, making some users cautious about potential long-term stability.

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Samsung 9100 SSD Review – Design and Hardware

The Samsung 9100 PRO SSD follows a standard M.2 2280 form factor, making it compatible with most modern motherboards and laptops that support PCIe 5.0. The PCB layout varies by capacity, with the 1TB and 2TB models featuring NAND chips only on one side, while the 4TB and 8TB versions have NAND chips on both sides of the PCB. Unlike previous Samsung SSDs, such as the 990 EVO, which featured single-sided designs for improved compatibility in laptops, the higher-capacity 9100 PRO models require additional NAND space, making them better suited for desktops and high-performance workstations.

The drive also includes a thermal pad on the back, which assists in heat dissipation when used with compatible motherboard heatsinks. Samsung offers a pre-installed heatsink variant for improved temperature management, utilizing a PCI-SIG D8-compliant design for the 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models, while the 8TB heatsink version features a thicker 11.25mm design for enhanced cooling, making it compatible with PlayStation 5 storage expansion requirements.

At the core of the 9100 PRO SSD is Samsung’s Presto PCIe 5.0 controller, which represents a significant advancement over previous controllers used in Samsung SSDs. This custom in-house design allows the 9100 PRO to achieve nearly full PCIe 5.0 bandwidth saturation, enabling up to 14,800 MB/s read and 13,400 MB/s write speeds. Unlike the 990 EVO, which used a more power-efficient but limited PCIe 4.0 controller, the 9100 PRO benefits from an advanced controller architecture that enhances throughput and reduces latency.

Built on a 5nm process, this controller lowers power consumption compared to earlier PCIe 5.0 SSDs, improves thermal efficiency, and integrates advanced ECC and wear-leveling algorithms for better long-term reliability. Additionally, Samsung’s Presto controller features a larger DRAM buffer and optimized NAND channel management, allowing the 9100 PRO to deliver high sustained speeds under extended workloads.

Unlike the 990 EVO and 990 EVO Plus, which were DRAM-less SSDs relying on Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, the Samsung 9100 PRO integrates dedicated LPDDR4X DRAM, providing better caching and improved sustained write performance. The amount of DRAM scales with the drive’s capacity, with 1GB for 1TB models, 2GB for 2TB, 4GB for 4TB, and 8GB for 8TB.

This ensures that larger models handle large file transfers, database workloads, and AI-driven tasks more efficiently. The Presto controller’s enhanced memory mapping further improves the effectiveness of DRAM caching, ensuring lower latency and higher sustained write speeds. This is a notable advantage over competing PCIe 5.0 SSDs, many of which cut costs by removing DRAM and relying on slower caching solutions.

The 9100 PRO utilizes Samsung’s latest 3-bit MLC V-NAND (V8), which delivers higher density, improved durability, and greater efficiency compared to previous NAND generations. This 3-bit MLC (commonly referred to as TLC) enables faster read and write cycles, lower power consumption per operation, and improved reliability. Unlike older NAND designs used in PCIe 4.0 SSDs, the V8 NAND architecture allows for greater endurance and a more efficient distribution of read and write cycles, making it better suited for high-performance tasks such as video editing, AI computing, and professional content creation.

The 4TB and 8TB models benefit from additional NAND dies, increasing parallel processing capabilities and enabling higher performance under heavy workloads. Compared to Samsung’s previous consumer SSDs, the 9100 PRO’s NAND offers greater consistency in performance, reducing the risk of slowdowns due to write amplification and NAND wear over time.

Samsung rates the 9100 PRO with a Total Bytes Written (TBW) endurance rating of up to 4,800 TB for the 8TB model, with lower capacities following a scaled endurance pattern of 600 TB (1TB), 1,200 TB (2TB), and 2,400 TB (4TB). This results in a Drive Writes Per Day (DWPD) rating of approximately 0.328, meaning users can rewrite around one-third of the drive’s full capacity daily for five years before reaching the warranty limit.

Samsung claims on the 9100 PRO peak sequential read/write speeds (though based on hugely synthetic tests on an AMD Ryzen 9 7950x 16-Core Processor [email protected] system) make it one of the fastest PCIe 5.0 SSDs available in 2025. These speeds nearly double those of the 990 EVO (more on that shortly) released around 4-5 months before. Additionally, random read and write speeds exceeding 2.2M and 2.6M IOPS, which is a major improvement for workloads requiring frequent small file transactions, such as AI modeling, LLM training, and cloud storage applications. However, real-world performance may vary depending on factors such as cooling, system architecture, and workload type, which will be explored in the performance testing section of this review.

Samsung also emphasizes the power efficiency gains of the 9100 PRO, stating that the new controller and NAND design allow for up to 49% better efficiency than the previous generation 990 PRO. Power consumption during active operation is rated at 7.6W for the 1TB model, 8.1W for the 2TB, and 9.0W for the 4TB version, ensuring lower power draw compared to other PCIe 5.0 SSDs with similar performance ratings. This efficiency improvement helps reduce heat output and extends the lifespan of the drive, making it a more suitable option for professional and high-end workstation environments.

Samsung 9100 SSD vs the Samsung 990 EVO PLUS – Gen5 SSDs Compared

The Samsung 9100 PRO and Samsung 990 EVO Plus cater to different segments of the SSD market, with the 9100 PRO targeting high-performance workloads and the 990 EVO Plus designed for mainstream users seeking a balance between speed and efficiency. The most significant difference lies in interface and speed, as the 9100 PRO utilizes PCIe 5.0 x4, allowing for sequential read speeds up to 14,800 MB/s and write speeds up to 13,400 MB/s. In contrast, the 990 EVO Plus uses a PCIe 4.0 x4 / 5.0 x2 interface, capping its speeds at 7,250 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write.

While this makes the 990 EVO Plus one of the fastest PCIe 4.0 drives, it falls considerably behind the 9100 PRO, particularly in random performance, where the 9100 PRO achieves up to 2,200K IOPS read and 2,600K IOPS write, compared to the 990 EVO Plus’s 1,050K IOPS read and 1,400K IOPS write. The 9100 PRO also integrates LPDDR4X DRAM, ensuring smoother performance under heavy workloads, whereas the 990 EVO Plus relies on Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, which is dependent on system RAM and may lead to performance inconsistencies in extended write operations.

Beyond speed, endurance and power efficiency also differ significantly between the two drives. The 9100 PRO offers a higher TBW rating, reaching 4,800 TB on the 8TB model, compared to the 990 EVO Plus’s maximum of 2,400 TBW for its 4TB version. This makes the 9100 PRO more suitable for AI computing, professional video editing, and enterprise applications where large amounts of data are written daily. Power consumption is another key factor, with the 9100 PRO consuming between 7.6W and 9.0W under active operation, while the 990 EVO Plus operates at a lower 4.3W to 5.5W during reads and 4.2W to 4.8W during writes.

While the 990 EVO Plus is more power-efficient, the 9100 PRO compensates with significantly higher performance and an improved energy efficiency rating, reducing power consumption by 49% compared to previous Samsung PCIe 5.0 drives. Overall, while the 990 EVO Plus is a strong option for users looking for a high-speed PCIe 4.0 SSD, the 9100 PRO is a better fit for professionals requiring the fastest speeds, highest endurance, and improved thermal performance.

Samsung 9100 SSD Review – Performance Tests

Performance testing for the Samsung 9100 PRO was conducted on a Windows 10 system with a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a PCIe 5.0-enabled motherboard. The operating system was installed on a separate PCIe 4.0 SSD, while the 9100 PRO was tested in an available PCIe 5.0 slot.

Benchmarking tools included ATTO Disk Benchmark, CrystalDiskMark, AJA System Test, and real-world file transfer tests to assess sequential and random performance under different workloads. The drive was tested in both bare PCB configuration and with a third-party heatsink, as the proprietary Samsung heatsink version was unavailable for this review.

In ATTO Disk Benchmark, which measures transfer speeds across different file sizes, the 9100 PRO achieved sequential read speeds of between 11.3 GB/s and 11.5 GB/s, with occasional peaks reaching 12.5 GB/s under optimal conditions. These results, while slightly lower than Samsung’s claimed 14.8 GB/s read speed, remain among the highest reported for consumer PCIe 5.0 SSDs. Write speeds in ATTO remained stable at approximately 11.0 GB/s to 12.0 GB/s, showing consistent performance across multiple test runs.

Meanwhile, CrystalDiskMark testing at a 16GB file size reported read speeds of up to 11,881 MB/s and write speeds of 12,444 MB/s, with random IOPS reaching up to 1.5 million under ideal conditions. While the drive’s performance fluctuated slightly depending on workload type, overall speeds remained close to manufacturer specifications, confirming its status as one of the fastest SSDs available in 2025.

For real-world testing, a 52GB mixed dataset comprising 1,711 files across 42 folders was transferred to the 9100 PRO from another PCIe 4.0 SSD. The transfer was completed in just over 34 seconds, with speeds sustaining well above 9,000 MB/s for most of the operation. These figures align with high-end PCIe 5.0 expectations, demonstrating the drive’s ability to maintain consistent performance under heavy workloads.

Additionally, AJA System Test, which simulates video production workloads, recorded sustained read speeds of nearly 10,000 MB/s, making the 9100 PRO a strong choice for video editing professionals working with large 8K or RAW footage files. Notably, write performance remained stable even during long transfers, likely due to Samsung’s expanded Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 cache, which allocates up to 442GB of SLC cache on the 4TB model to handle large sequential writes without immediate slowdowns.

During testing, the 9100 PRO’s temperatures fluctuated between 45°C and 55°C at idle, while sustained workloads pushed temperatures above 81°C under extended high-speed transfers. While Samsung’s new 5nm Presto controller is more power-efficient than previous PCIe 5.0 designs, high-speed Gen 5 SSDs inherently produce significant heat, requiring adequate cooling solutions to prevent throttling. In testing with a third-party heatsink, thermal recovery was fast, and the drive quickly dropped back to safe temperature ranges within seconds after peak workloads ended. However, without a heatsink, performance throttling was observed after extended write operations, reinforcing the importance of active cooling for sustained performance in PCIe 5.0 SSDs.

Overall, the Samsung 9100 PRO delivers competitive and consistent performance across synthetic benchmarks and real-world testing. It consistently reaches 11.5 GB/s to 12.5 GB/s in most workloads, proving it to be among the fastest PCIe 5.0 SSDs available. Real-world file transfers confirm the drive’s ability to sustain high write speeds, while Samsung’s Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 technology minimizes performance drops even under heavy loads. However, thermal management remains a key consideration, as sustained high-speed operations push temperatures close to throttling limits without a heatsink. Despite this, power efficiency is improved over previous PCIe 5.0 SSDs, making it a strong option for professionals requiring high-performance storage for AI, video production, and data-heavy workloads.

Samsung 9100 SSD Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The Samsung 9100 PRO SSD delivers top-tier PCIe 5.0 performance, offering sequential read speeds up to 14,800 MB/s and write speeds reaching 13,400 MB/s, making it one of the fastest consumer SSDs currently available. Unlike many PCIe 5.0 SSDs that rely on third-party controllers from Phison or NAND from Micron, the 9100 PRO benefits from Samsung’s fully in-house design, including its Presto PCIe 5.0 controller and V-NAND TLC (V8). This ensures better integration between hardware and firmware, resulting in more stable performance, improved power efficiency, and better overall optimization for workloads like AI computing, video production, and high-speed data processing. Additionally, Samsung claims 49% improved power efficiency over previous PCIe 5.0 SSDs, helping to reduce thermal output compared to some early PCIe 5.0 models. Its high endurance rating (up to 4,800 TBW on the 8TB model) also positions it as a strong choice for users who require reliable, long-term performance.

However, there are some key drawbacks to consider. Thermal performance remains a challenge, as the 9100 PRO can reach temperatures above 81°C under extended workloads, meaning a proper cooling solution is necessary to prevent thermal throttling. While Samsung offers a heatsink version, those using the bare PCB model may need to invest in additional cooling for sustained performance. Additionally, real-world speeds, while impressive, do not always match Samsung’s maximum advertised performance, particularly once the TurboWrite cache is exhausted. Furthermore, Samsung’s reputation for SSD reliability is generally strong, but firmware issues in previous models, such as the 990 PRO and 980 PRO, led to concerns over long-term stability. While Samsung has since addressed those problems, some users may remain cautious about potential firmware-related risks. Despite these concerns, the 9100 PRO still stands out as one of the best PCIe 5.0 SSDs available, offering fully in-house hardware, high endurance, and leading-edge performance for users who need the fastest storage available today.

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The Best M.2 SSD NAS of the Year

As we close out 2024 and move into 2025, the evolution of SSD-based NAS systems has been nothing short of remarkable. This year has seen a surge in brands embracing M.2 NVMe and SATA-based SSD systems over traditional hard drives. Today, we highlight the best SSD flash NAS systems of the year, featuring three standout recommendations and one honorable mention. These systems leverage the enhanced performance of Gen 3, Gen 4, and even Gen 5 SSDs, providing exceptional speed and versatility.

Criteria for Selection

1. Availability: The NAS must have been released and available for purchase before October 2024.
2. Focus on M.2 NVMe: While SATA-based SSDs are still popular, this list emphasizes systems that utilize the high-performance potential of M.2 NVMe SSDs.
3. Turnkey Solutions: DIY systems are excluded; we’re focusing on fully integrated, ready-to-use NAS devices.

With those criteria in mind, let’s dive into the list, starting with our honorable mention.

Honorable Mention: Asustor Flashstor Gen 2

6/12x M.2 NVMe SSD Bays (Gen 4/3), Ryzen 4 Core / 8 Thread CPU, ECC Memory, 10GbE, USB4, 10G USB – $999-1499 HERE

• Written Review HERE
• YouTube Video Review HERE

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 2 is a fantastic example of how NAS devices are evolving to meet modern performance demands. Designed for users who need a balance of speed, reliability, and compact design, this NAS delivers enterprise-level features in a smaller form factor. Its Ryzen V3000 processor, paired with 6 or 12 bays for M.2 NVMe drives, makes it a powerhouse for demanding workloads. Whether you’re handling virtualization, multimedia editing, or advanced backups, this NAS is built to perform without breaking a sweat.

The Asustor Lockerstor Gen 2 narrowly misses the top spots but remains an impressive NAS. Powered by a Ryzen V3000 processor, this system is available in 6-bay and 12-bay configurations, offering:

• 10GbE and USB 4 connectivity, enabling network and Thunderbolt functionality.
• ECC memory support, depending on the configuration.
• Gen4 SSD Bandwidth
• Compact design with powerful performance, ideal for modern workloads.

This NAS combines robust hardware and versatile connectivity. The Ryzen V3000 processor ensures efficient multitasking, making it suitable for demanding applications such as virtualization, multimedia editing, and high-speed backups. The inclusion of ECC memory in specific configurations enhances data integrity, making it an excellent choice for professionals requiring reliability.

What we said in our Flashstor Gen 2 Review 03/24:

The Asustor Flashstor Gen 2 12-Bay NAS is a robust and versatile solution for users with demanding storage needs. Its combination of high-performance hardware, extensive connectivity options, and compact design makes it a standout choice for content creators, small businesses, and enthusiasts. With dual 10GbE ports, USB 4.0 connectivity, and support for up to 12 M.2 NVMe drives, it offers exceptional speed and scalability. While the device has a few quirks, such as its mixed PCIe slot speeds and lack of M.2 heat sinks, these are manageable with proper planning and aftermarket solutions. The Flashstor Gen 2 excels in raw performance, handling intensive workflows with ease and maintaining low noise levels even under load. Its power efficiency and robust thermal management further enhance its appeal for 24/7 operation. For users prioritizing hardware capabilities and performance, the Flashstor Gen 2 delivers on its promises. While its complexity may deter less experienced users, those with the technical expertise to configure and optimize the system will find it a valuable addition to their workflow.

SOFTWARE - 6/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 10/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.0

PROS

Exceptional Performance: Dual 10-Gigabit Ethernet ports and USB 4.0 connectivity deliver fast and reliable data transfer speeds, ideal for 4K editing and collaborative environments.
Extensive Storage Options: Supports up to 12 M.2 NVMe SSDs, allowing for large-scale, high-speed storage arrays.
ECC Memory Support: Includes 16GB of DDR5-4800 ECC memory (expandable to 64GB), ensuring data integrity for critical applications.
Compact Design: Small footprint makes it perfect for workspaces with limited room.
Quiet Operation: Dual-fan system keeps noise levels low, even under heavy loads.
Flexible Connectivity: Features two USB 4.0 Type-C ports and three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for direct storage access and peripheral integration.
Power Efficiency: Low power consumption (32.2W idle, 56W under load) makes it economical to run, even for 24/7 operation.
Thermal Management Enhancements: Dual fans and copper heat pipes efficiently dissipate heat, ensuring stable performance.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Compatible with platforms like TrueNAS and Unraid for advanced customization.

CONS

Mixed PCIe Slot Speeds: Inconsistent PCIe bandwidth across M.2 slots complicates unified RAID configurations.
Lack of M.2 Heat Sinks: NVMe slots do not include heat sinks, requiring aftermarket cooling solutions for intensive workloads.
No Integrated Graphics: The AMD Ryzen V3C14 processor lacks integrated graphics, limiting hardware transcoding and multimedia capabilities.
Steep Price: The 12-bay model’s cost ($1,300–$1,400) and the six-bay version’s lack of ECC memory make them expensive compared to alternatives.

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While this NAS has only just started to reach reviewers, its potential is clear. If it performs as promised, it may well dominate 2025’s rankings. For now, it earns a well-deserved honorable mention, as it is simply too new to be compared against devices that have had more time in the market for user feedback.

Flashstor Gen 2 on Amazon Below:

Best Business M.2 NVMe SSD NAS – The QNAP TBS-h574

5x M.2 NVMe SSD Bays (Gen 3 E1.S), Intel 13th Gen Core i3/i5/i7 4/6/8 Core 10-12 Thread CPU, up to 64GB Memory, 10GbE, USB4/TB4, 10G USB – $1199-1449 HERE

• Written Review HERE
• YouTube Video Review HERE

The QNAP TBS-h574 redefines compact NAS design by delivering robust performance and advanced features in a small footprint. Targeted at professionals and small businesses, this NAS offers seamless integration of hardware and software, leveraging the speed of M.2 NVMe SSDs to enhance data management workflows. With its hot-swappable SSD bays and high-speed connectivity options, the TBS-h574 is perfect for scenarios demanding speed, reliability, and minimal space requirements.

The QNAP TBS-h574 is a powerhouse NAS with:

• 5 M.2 NVMe bays (supporting Gen 3 SSDs with hot-swapping capabilities).
• Intel Core i3 or i5 processor options.
• 10GbE and USB4/Thunderbolt connectivity.
• ZFS support through QNAP’s QUTS OS, allowing for advanced RAID configurations like Write Once Read Many (WORM).

This NAS stands out for its compact design and enterprise-level features. The hot-swappable M.2 bays make maintenance and upgrades easy, while the integration of Thunderbolt provides exceptional data transfer speeds. The Intel Core processors ensure robust performance, supporting applications like virtual machines, multimedia transcoding, and high-speed backups. Despite its higher price point, it offers robust performance, excellent warranty support, and a growing software ecosystem. Its lack of ECC memory and throttled M.2 speeds due to CPU lane limitations are minor drawbacks. Still, its balance of hardware, software, and scalability secures it a top spot on this list.

What we said in our QNAP TBS-h574TX NAS Review on 01/24:

The QNAP TBS-h574TX NAS emerges as an exceptional and uniquely compact yet robustly powerful system, offering outstanding performance and bandwidth capabilities. Its sleek and innovative design sets a new standard in the NAS market, particularly notable for its integration of advanced features like Thunderbolt 4 and a high-capacity 10G connection. These features are further enhanced by the utilization of cutting-edge E1.S/NVMe SSD storage, all seamlessly managed by a highly capable CPU architecture. This makes the TBS-h574TX not just a NAS, but a powerhouse of data management and connectivity. Especially appealing to photo and video editors, the NAS excels in aesthetics, portability, and functionality, making it a viable alternative to traditional portable direct-attached storage systems like LaCie or G-Tech. Its ability to support multi-user access and provide immediate local network connectivity straight out of the box adds to its versatility. Additionally, the system boasts a modest power supply and impressively efficient power consumption relative to the bandwidth it offers, highlighting QNAP’s commitment to balancing performance with energy efficiency.

However, users must note some trade-offs, such as the limitation in PCIe bandwidth for each of the SSD bays, and the fixed memory capacity. While these are necessary adjustments for its compact form, they are points for consideration. Despite these minor limitations, the 13th Gen Intel Core processor used in its configurations demonstrates QNAP’s dedication to incorporating top-tier technology, although there are more advanced CPUs in other models. This system is a testament to QNAP’s ability to innovate, offering a package that promises the high performance of larger NAS units but in a remarkably portable format. It raises the question: Is this the ideal NAS for everyone? Perhaps not. But for those seeking a high-performance, Thunderbolt-enabled NAS that combines portability with powerful capabilities, the QNAP TBS-h574TX is a formidable choice.

SOFTWARE - 9/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 10/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.8

PROS

Exceptionally future-proof 13th Gen i3/i5 Processor (Mid-2023 series) with high end Int.Gfx
2x Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, one is front mounted for convenience
Also features a 10GbE and 2.5GbE Connection for direct editing and/or high-speed local networking
High internal and external performance and bandwidth for such a compact system
Compact and portable, ideal for on-site creators to share and collaborate on-the-fly
Enhanced security protocols post-Deadbolt ransomware attack.
Wide range of multimedia and business tools.
Equipped with QVR Pro for extensive surveillance and numerous Backup/Sync tools as standard.
QuTS Has numerous ZFS based advantages + QSAL Antiwear leveling
Supports AI photo recognition, AI Surveillance Tools, 4K/8K Plex Support and VM Tools.
Arrives with 1TB of Cloud Space with MyQNAPCloudOne for 12 months.

CONS

High price range of $1800-$2000. Check out the TVS-h674T for similar pricing and alternative Tiering/Bandwidth allocation
Limited PCIe bandwidth on SSD bays.
Not a silent operation due to cooling fans.

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Best Budget 10GbE M.2 SSD NAS – The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus

8x M.2 NVMe SSD Bays (Gen 3×1), Intel N305 i3 8 Core / 8 Thread CPU, up to 32GB Memory, 10GbE, 10G USB – $599-799 HERE

• Written Review HERE
• YouTube Video Review HERE

The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus is a standout example of affordability meeting performance in the NAS market. It is tailored for professionals and enthusiasts seeking a turnkey solution with significant storage capacity and power efficiency. Its design focuses on delivering ample M.2 NVMe storage options while maintaining a low overall cost, making it accessible without sacrificing essential features.

The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus consistently surprises as a value-packed flash NAS solution:

• 8 M.2 NVMe slots, each supporting up to Gen 3 x1 speeds.
• Intel N305 Alder Lake processor with 8 cores, paired with 16GB DDR5 memory.
• Single 10GbE port for high-speed connectivity.

This NAS combines affordability with impressive storage potential. The 8-core Alder Lake processor is designed for power efficiency, keeping energy costs low while maintaining consistent performance. Its 8 M.2 NVMe slots enable significant storage expansion, ideal for professionals managing large data sets or high-definition multimedia. At a price range of $499–$799, this NAS delivers incredible value. While its CPU limits performance to Gen 3 x1 speeds, it is power-efficient and offers significant storage potential. Notably, TerraMaster allows users to install third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid, providing versatility for advanced users.

What we said in our Review of the Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS on 09/24:

You really have to give Terramaster credit for the F8 SSD Plus, as it stands out impressively among the many brands entering the dedicated flash SSD storage market recently. Despite its compact size, it offers more storage than most competitors, though long-term users may be concerned about heat management. Terramaster has addressed this with effective heatsink placement, angled airflow, and necessary SSD performance adjustments to control temperature. While not perfect and lacking some high-end business features like ECC memory and network failover, it suits prosumers, enthusiasts, and small to medium businesses. Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases will benefit from this system, despite the absence of some enterprise-level hardware. The TOS 6 software has improved significantly, offering a wide array of features such as flexible RAID, BTRFS support, multi-tiered backup, and more. Though the “Windows 11” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, and there is a notable absence of ZFS, the ability to install third-party OS options like UnRAID and TrueNAS adds versatility. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a capable, affordable, and impressive NAS solution, holding its own in a competitive market for 2024/2025, even if it doesn’t match the software flair of Synology or the aggressive hardware approach of QNAP.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.
Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.
Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.
Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.
Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.
Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.
Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

CONS

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.
Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.
Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.
No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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PROs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS	CONs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS
Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor. Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently. Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases. Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more. Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options. Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance. Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments. Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions. Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.	Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments. Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer. Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some. No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

Best Value Multimedia M.2 SSD NAS – Asustor Flashstor 6/12 Gen 1 

6/12x M.2 NVMe SSD Bays (Gen 3×1), Intel N5105 Core / 4 Thread CPU, up to 16GB Memory, 2.5G/10GbE, 10G USB – $449-749 HERE

• Written Review HERE
• YouTube Video Review HERE

The Asustor Flashstor 12 Pro offers an exceptional balance of capacity and affordability, making it ideal for users looking to build high-performance SSD storage arrays without exceeding their budget. Its focus on M.2 NVMe storage is matched by its compact design, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any workspace. Despite using an older processor, this NAS continues to deliver reliable performance for a variety of applications.

Although the Asustor Flashstor 12 Gen 1 uses an older Intel Celeron N5105 processor, it remains a strong contender due to its:

• 12 M.2 NVMe slots for extensive storage capacity.
• 10GbE and HDMI output.
• Compact design and affordable pricing, starting at just $750 for the 10GbE model and just $449 for the 2x 2.5G model (same CPU and Memory

This NAS’s 12-bay configuration is a standout feature, allowing users to create expansive SSD arrays. The Celeron N5105 processor is modest but sufficient for basic NAS tasks, including backups, media streaming, and data synchronization. Its HDMI output adds versatility for local multimedia playback or monitoring.

While its hardware shows its age, the Flashstor 12’s low power consumption, excellent software support, and compatibility with TrueNAS or Unraid make it a fantastic choice for users seeking high-capacity storage at a competitive price.

What we said in our Review of the Asustor Flashstor Gen 1 NAS on 06/12:

I cannot stress enough how impressed I am that the Flashstor 6 and Flashstor 12 Pro are priced at $499 and $860, respectively, given the level of hardware on offer here. These are by no means enterprise-grade NAS server solutions, nor should they be thought of as such. However, given the cost of typical fully featured 4x HDD solutions from their competitors and the brand themselves, which often start at $550 and above, it is quite remarkable that the six M.2 SSD system with comparable internal hardware comes in at $499. As long as a user keeps their expectations in line with what this cost versus its capabilities, it’s really tough to argue with the price point that these two devices have arrived at on the market. The Asustor FS6712X Flashstor 12 Pro NAS presents a unique offering in the NAS market, leveraging NVMe technology to provide high-capacity, ultra-high-performance storage. The device’s design, with its rhombus-shaped enclosure and twelve M.2 NVMe slots, sets it apart from traditional NAS devices and offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. The tool-less drive installation mechanism makes it easy to set up and expand the storage capacity. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The limited number of PCIe lanes provided by the Intel Celeron N5105 processor may restrict the performance of high-speed NVMe drives.

The single 10GbE LAN port also presents a potential network bottleneck, limiting the device’s overall network performance. Users seeking maximum performance and network throughput may find alternative solutions better suited to their needs. Despite these limitations, the FS6712X shines as a storage solution for users who prioritize high-capacity storage, quiet operation, and low power consumption. The device’s ability to directly output 4K video, along with its range of Asustor-approved apps, makes it an excellent choice for media distribution and presentation. In terms of pricing, the FS6712X comes with a price tag of $850+. While this may appear high at first glance, it is comparable to 8 bay drive NAS SATA devices and many of those do not even include NVMe slots or 10GbE. Users looking for a more cost-effective option can consider the Flashstor 6, which offers half the number of slots and 2x 2.5GbE enabled ports for $499. As the cost of flash modules continues to drop, and larger capacity drives become available all the way up to 8TB (even without QLC), the FS6712X provides an attractive solution for those seeking high-capacity and high-performance NAS storage. While some underlying performance relativity by the end user needs to be factored in and hardware limitations exist thanks to the use of that Celeron to remain budget-friendly, the FS6712X is a tremendously smart move by Asustor. A well-designed NAS that presents a much more confident solution demonstrating the benefits of NVMe-focused NAS devices to an audience that would have assumed such things are way, WAY outside the realms of affordability!

SOFTWARE - 7/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

12x NVMe SSD Flash NAS for under $1000 - COME ON!
10GbE onboard
Full 1st Party NAS OS Included
USB 3.2 Gen 2 10G Connectivity and wide USB Support/Compatibility
Very Slick and compact design
SP/DIF and HDMI 2.0b Outputs will hugely please the multimedia user community
Likewise, Plex Performance is very good for 4K and 1080p conversions

CONS

12x NVMe Performance will never be realised because of the Intel Celeron CPU inside 
Only 1x network port means Failover or NIC priority management is not possible
4GB default memory in the 12 Bay model seems too low for day 1 (12x M.2 + 10G, plus same as 6 Bay)

 Check Amazon for the Flashstor FS6706T and FS6712X NAS Below:

Final Thoughts

2024 has been an incredible year for SSD-based NAS systems, showcasing innovation and value across the board. Whether you prioritize cutting-edge performance or affordable versatility, there’s an option here for you. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Did we miss a NAS that deserves recognition? Let us know in the comments below or check out our linked article for a deeper dive into these systems. If you’re planning a purchase, consider using the affiliate links to support NASCompares—it helps us keep delivering content for the community.

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The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus – Should You Buy?

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is one of the most compact yet powerful NAS solutions available in 2024. With its 8-bay, all-SSD configuration and small form factor, it stands out in a crowded market for small businesses and tech enthusiasts looking for high-performance storage. It promises to deliver fast speeds, silent operation, and a robust RAID system that offers flexibility for future upgrades. But is it the right NAS for you? Designed with both professional and domestic users in mind, the F8 SSD Plus supports demanding tasks like virtualization, database management, and media streaming while maintaining an impressively small footprint. With TerraMaster’s latest operating system (TOS 6), this NAS not only aims to be powerful but user-friendly, offering a versatile range of features suitable for different use cases. Let’s break down what I love and what I hate about the F8 SSD PLUS NAS.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

You really have to give Terramaster credit for the F8 SSD Plus, as it stands out impressively among the many brands entering the dedicated flash SSD storage market recently. Despite its compact size, it offers more storage than most competitors, though long-term users may be concerned about heat management. Terramaster has addressed this with effective heatsink placement, angled airflow, and necessary SSD performance adjustments to control temperature. While not perfect and lacking some high-end business features like ECC memory and network failover, it suits prosumers, enthusiasts, and small to medium businesses. Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases will benefit from this system, despite the absence of some enterprise-level hardware. The TOS 6 software has improved significantly, offering a wide array of features such as flexible RAID, BTRFS support, multi-tiered backup, and more. Though the “Windows 11” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, and there is a notable absence of ZFS, the ability to install third-party OS options like UnRAID and TrueNAS adds versatility. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a capable, affordable, and impressive NAS solution, holding its own in a competitive market for 2024/2025, even if it doesn’t match the software flair of Synology or the aggressive hardware approach of QNAP.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.
Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.
Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.
Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.
Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.
Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.
Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

CONS

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.
Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.
Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.
No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now?

Why You Should Consider the F8 SSD Plus

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus shines in many areas, offering a powerful and compact solution for those in need of fast, reliable NAS storage. With its cutting-edge hardware, flexible RAID options, and user-friendly software, it stands out as an excellent choice for both small businesses and tech-savvy individuals. Let’s explore the key strengths that make this NAS a solid investment for your storage needs.

Compact and High-Capacity Design

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus stands out for its compact design and massive storage capacity. Despite its small size—comparable to a paperback book—it houses eight M.2 NVMe SSD slots that can hold up to 64TB of storage. This makes it a highly efficient choice for users who need substantial storage but don’t have much physical space to spare. Whether you’re a small business managing large databases or a media professional working with high-resolution video files, the F8 SSD Plus delivers excellent performance in a small, space-saving package.

Moreover, its all-SSD architecture means that this NAS is not only faster than its HDD-based counterparts but also operates much more quietly. This is a key advantage for users who need their NAS to function in environments where noise can be a distraction, such as offices or home studios. By using solid-state drives exclusively, the F8 SSD Plus significantly reduces noise, heat, and power consumption compared to traditional NAS systems. This makes it perfect for users looking for a compact yet high-performance storage solution without the drawbacks of mechanical hard drives.

High-Speed Performance with Intel i3

Another key feature of the F8 SSD Plus is its high-speed performance, thanks to its Intel Core i3 processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. The 8-core CPU provides plenty of processing power for high-demand tasks like virtualization, database management, and multimedia editing. Whether you’re running multiple virtual machines or editing 4K video, this NAS can handle it. Paired with a 10GbE Ethernet port, it ensures rapid data transfer, giving users quick access to their files and resources across the network.

This robust processing power makes the F8 SSD Plus especially suited for small businesses that require reliable, fast data processing without investing in bulky or expensive rack-mounted servers. It’s also a great fit for media professionals who need to work with large video files and require fast, seamless read/write capabilities. The Intel i3 CPU provides enough speed and power to keep everything running smoothly, while the 10GbE port ensures that file transfers happen at optimal speeds.

Flexible RAID Options with TRAID

A major selling point of the F8 SSD Plus is its flexible RAID options, particularly TerraMaster’s TRAID technology. Unlike traditional RAID configurations that lock you into specific drive sizes and capacities, TRAID allows you to mix and match SSDs over time, upgrading as your storage needs grow without losing data. This is an excellent feature for future-proofing your NAS, as SSD prices continue to drop and larger capacities become more affordable.

This flexibility makes the F8 SSD Plus an attractive option for users who want to start with smaller, more affordable drives and upgrade as needed. Instead of being locked into a particular drive configuration, users can easily swap in larger SSDs down the line, taking advantage of price drops and newer technology. For businesses and power users who need their NAS to evolve with their storage requirements, the F8 SSD Plus offers a smart, scalable solution.

User-Friendly TOS 6 Software

The user-friendly software bundled with the F8 SSD Plus is another reason to consider this NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system offers an intuitive and feature-rich user experience. It includes support for virtualization, Docker containers, snapshots, and comprehensive backup solutions, making it a versatile platform for both business and personal use. Whether you’re managing data backups or running a multimedia server, TOS 6 provides a modern, responsive interface to streamline your workflow.

Additionally, the F8 SSD Plus allows for third-party OS installations like TrueNAS and Unraid, offering flexibility for users who prefer different software environments. This feature ensures that tech-savvy users can customize their NAS experience to fit specific needs, without compromising on performance or reliability. With TOS 6 or an alternative OS, the F8 SSD Plus adapts to a variety of use cases, from virtualized environments to high-speed data backup.

Keep in mind however, that the TOS NAS software is still no rival for well established NAS software platforms such as Synology DSM, QNAP QuTS, TrueNAS and UnRAID.

Considerations Before Buying

While the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus boasts a range of impressive features, it’s important to consider some potential limitations before making a decision. Like any NAS system, the F8 SSD Plus has areas where it might not fully meet the needs of every user. Whether it’s performance constraints, memory concerns, or certain design choices, these factors could influence whether this NAS is the right fit for you. Let’s take a closer look at the key drawbacks you should be aware of.

Limited Gen 3 SSD Speeds

Despite its strengths, the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus does have some limitations, particularly in terms of SSD speed. The M.2 slots in this NAS only support Gen 3 x1 speeds, which caps each SSD’s performance at around 1,000MB/s. While this might be sufficient for many users, it can be a bottleneck for those who need to fully leverage high-performance SSDs. If you’re planning to use top-tier Gen 3 or Gen 4 SSDs, you might not be able to utilize their full potential with this NAS.

This limitation could be a concern for media professionals or businesses that require extremely fast read/write speeds for tasks like video editing or high-demand database applications. Even though the overall performance is solid, the restricted SSD speed might hold back users who need every ounce of performance from their storage. For those users, it’s worth considering whether the speed trade-off is justified by the NAS’s other strengths, like compactness and flexibility.

No ECC Memory

Another potential drawback is the lack of ECC memory. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory is often preferred in data-critical environments because it helps prevent data corruption by detecting and correcting errors in real-time. The F8 SSD Plus does not feature ECC memory, which might be a dealbreaker for users handling sensitive or mission-critical data. For businesses that prioritize data integrity, especially in virtualization and database scenarios, this omission could be a significant downside.

While the system’s 16GB of DDR5 RAM is fast and capable, some users may feel that ECC memory is essential for ensuring data stability. Particularly at this price point, the absence of ECC memory might be seen as a missed opportunity for TerraMaster to appeal to enterprise users who demand the highest level of data security. If data accuracy is a top priority for your workflow, it’s worth weighing this factor carefully.

Single 10GbE Port

Another consideration is the single 10GbE port. While the inclusion of 10GbE is a huge advantage for networking speed, the fact that the F8 SSD Plus only has one port might limit its networking potential for more advanced users. For most users, a single 10GbE port will be sufficient, but for those needing to handle multiple high-speed connections or larger-scale environments, this could be a bottleneck.

Note, USB to 5GbE and 2.5GbE adapters CAN be used, for as little as $30

The potential bottleneck becomes more noticeable when handling very large data sets or multiple users accessing the system simultaneously. In a multi-user environment, the single 10GbE port might not provide enough throughput to fully take advantage of the NAS’s speed and SSD performance. If your usage requires extensive network bandwidth, this is something to keep in mind before deciding.

Mid-Tier CPU

Finally, the Intel i3 CPU, while strong, may not be powerful enough for users with the highest processing demands. In 2024, there are NAS systems available with even more powerful processors, such as Intel’s i5 or AMD Ryzen models, which offer superior performance for heavy workloads like 4K video editing, large-scale virtualization, or enterprise-level tasks.

Although the i3 CPU delivers solid performance for small businesses and multimedia tasks, users with more intensive needs might find it limiting. The lack of extra power lanes for the SSDs and network could restrict performance in high-demand environments, making this NAS a less appealing option for enterprise use. If raw processing power is your priority, it’s worth considering whether a higher-tier CPU would be a better fit for your needs.

Verdict – Is the Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Any Good?

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus offers a compelling combination of compact design, high performance, and flexible storage options, making it a strong contender in the 8-bay NAS market for 2024. It excels in environments where space and noise are a concern, delivering excellent performance for small businesses, media professionals, and tech enthusiasts alike. With features like flexible TRAID technology and a powerful Intel Core i3 processor, it’s a great option for users who need fast, scalable storage.

However, potential buyers should consider the limitations, such as the restricted SSD speeds and the lack of ECC memory, especially if they require the highest levels of performance and data protection. For most users, the F8 SSD Plus strikes a great balance between power and practicality, but those with more demanding needs may want to explore other options. In summary, if you’re looking for a compact, high-performance NAS that can grow with your storage needs, the F8 SSD Plus is definitely worth considering.

PROs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS	CONs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS
Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor. Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently. Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases. Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more. Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options. Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance. Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments. Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions. Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.	Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments. Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer. Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some. No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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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?

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

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