Après le BeeDrive et BeeStation, Synology dévoile le BeeStation Plus, un boîtier de stockage réseau qui monte en gamme. Avec 8 To de stockage, un processeur Intel plus performant, 4 Go de RAM, cette nouvelle version a de quoi séduire. Mais est-ce suffisant pour justifier son prix ? Et surtout, à qui s’adresse vraiment ce produit ?

Retour sur la gamme BeeStation

Avant d’entrer dans le détail de cette version « Plus », rappelons rapidement ce qu’est BeeStation.

Synology est un acteur reconnu dans le monde du NAS depuis de nombreuses années. Son succès repose sur la fiabilité de ses produits et un écosystème logiciel robuste, basé sur DSM, une interface web riche en fonctionnalités : sauvegarde, partage, sécurité, streaming, collaboration, etc.

Mais l’univers du NAS reste trop souvent associé aux professionnels ou aux utilisateurs avancés. Pour élargir son public, Synology a lancé BeeStation : un NAS simplifié, prêt à l’emploi, avec un disque dur intégré et une interface allégée. Le but ? Proposer une solution de stockage cloud privé pour le grand public, sans les complexités d’un NAS traditionnel.

Synology ne mentionne jamais le terme « NAS » dans sa communication autour de BeeStation. L’objectif est clair : offrir une alternative simple aux solutions cloud comme Google Drive ou iCloud, sans les problèmes de confidentialité des données.

BeeStation Plus : une montée en gamme bien pensée

La BeeStation Plus reprend les bases du modèle précédent, mais les améliore significativement :

• Stockage intégré : 8 To en standard
• Processeur : Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core à 2,0 GHz (burst jusqu’à 2,7 GHz)
• Mémoire vive : 4 Go de RAM DDR4
• Connectique :
  • 1 port USB 3.0 Type-A
  • 1 port USB 3.0 Type-C
  • 1 port Ethernet RJ45 Gigabit (1 Gb/s)

L’autre nouveauté, c’est la prise en charge native de Plex, la célèbre application de streaming multimédia. De quoi transformer ce boîtier en serveur multimédia personnel, sans configuration complexe. Attention, afin de profiter pleinement de Plex et de l’accélération matérielle offerte par le BeeStation Plus, il faudra souscrire au Plex Pass.

Un produit simple, mais pas simpliste

Là où Synology continue de se démarquer, c’est dans sa gestion avancée des données, même sur un produit grand public. On retrouve des fonctionnalités rares chez la concurrence à ce niveau de gamme :

• Chiffrement AES-256 des données avant sauvegarde externe
• Sauvegarde centralisée de services cloud tiers (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.)
• Accès distant sécurisé sans configuration réseau complexe

C’est ce genre de détails qui rend le produit intéressant pour des utilisateurs exigeants, sans les noyer dans des paramètres techniques.

Prix et disponibilité

La Synology BeeStation Plus (version 8 To) est disponible dès maintenant en commande, au prix public conseillé de 443,94 € TTC. Cela peut sembler un peu cher pour un produit aussi fermé, surtout comparé à un NAS classique, qui offre plus de flexibilité, d’évolutivité et souvent de meilleures performances.

BeeStation Plus semble être une solution idéale pour les utilisateurs à la recherche d’un stockage simple, prêt à l’emploi et sans configuration technique. Mais face à un NAS classique, le boiter apparaît comme une option trop fermée et peu évolutive, pour un prix assez important.

Pour en savoir plus, rendez-vous sur la page dédié au BeeStation Plus…

Découvrez comment auto-héberger un serveur de contrôle Tailscale avec Headscale sur un NAS Synology, grâce à un conteneur Docker et du reverse proxy de DSM.

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

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

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

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

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

Synology PS2600+ 26 Port L2+ Managed PoE Switch

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

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

Synology PS500 5 Port Unmanaged PoE Switch

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

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

Synology PS1000+ 10 Port L2+ Managed PoE Switch

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

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

Synology PS Series Switches, Conclusion and Verdict

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

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Synology poursuit le renouvellement de sa gamme DSx25+ avec l’annonce du DS425+. Il s’agit d’un nouveau NAS 4 baies animé par un processeur Intel. Ce modèle vise les utilisateurs à la recherche d’une solution de stockage performante et compacte, tout en conservant le contrôle total sur leurs données…

Synology DS425+, un air de déjà-vu

Le DS425+ reprend une configuration bien connue des adeptes de la marque. Synology le décrit comme « un centre de stockage compact avec 100% de propriété des données ». Le DS425+ est un NAS 4 baies en façade, ainsi que2 emplacements pour des SSD NVMe accessibles par le dessous

Il est construit autour d’un processeur Quad Core Intel Celeron J4125 cadencé à 2 GHz (mode Burst jusqu’à 2,7) et 2 Go de RAM DDR4 (non ECC), extensible jusqu’à 6 Go.

Vous avez une impression de déjà-vu… c’est normal. Rien de révolutionnaire ici. Nous sommes sur la même configuration que le DS423+ (qui ressemblait déjà beaucoup au DS920+). La nouveauté se situe au niveau de la connectique…

Connectique : du mieux, mais peut mieux faire

La seule véritable évolution concerne la connectique réseau. Le DS425+ intègre enfin un port RJ45 2,5 Gb/s, en plus d’un port 1 Gb/s classique. Un ajout bienvenu, mais tardif par rapport à la concurrence qui propose du multi-Gig depuis plusieurs années.

On retrouve également 2 ports USB 3.0, dont un en façade.

Politique de compatibilité restrictive

Avec la série DSx25+, Synology renforce sa politique de compatibilité matérielle. L’installation de disques durs ou de SSD non officiellement validés peut entraîner l’apparition d’alertes, la désactivation du cache NVMe, voire l’impossibilité de créer un volume. En pratique, cela exclut de nombreuses références pourtant éprouvées, comme les Seagate IronWolf ou les WD Red, au profit exclusif des modèles Synology.

Présentée comme une mesure en faveur de la fiabilité, cette restriction limite considérablement la liberté de configuration des utilisateurs et peut engendrer un surcoût non négligeable. Si Synology souhaite maintenir la confiance de ses clients, une liste de compatibilité ouverte et transparente (incluant des marques tierces) devient urgente.

Prix et disponibilité

Le prix du DS425+ n’a pas encore été communiqué. On peut néanmoins s’attendre à un tarif proche de celui du DS423+ à son lancement, ce qui placerait ce nouveau NAS autour des 550€.

Malgré un positionnement intéressant, le DS425+ ne propose qu’un seul changement matériel par rapport à son prédécesseur, ce qui pourrait décevoir les utilisateurs à la recherche d’une réelle montée en gamme. On notera également la restriction croissante imposée par Synology quant à l’utilisation de disques durs et SSD tiers, un point à surveiller avant l’achat.

Pour en savoir plus, vous pouvez vous rendre sur la fiche produit…

Avec ce tutoriel, apprenez à intégrer un NAS Synology à un réseau Heascale grâce à l'utilisation du client Tailscale et à sa configuration en ligne de commande.

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Synology Launches RS2825RP+ RackStation NAS for Business Deployments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synology RS2825RP+ vs RS2821RP+ – A Significant Upgrade?

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

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

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

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

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

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Au Computex de Taïwan, Synology présente la nouvelle version de sa solution de « cloud privé » : le BeeStation Plus. Un produit très polyvalent qui se distingue des NAS par sa simplicité d'utilisation : n'importe qui peut le mettre en place.

Synology DS425+ NAS Revealed

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

Synology DS425+ Hardware Specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synology DS425+ NAS – Software and Services

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

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

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

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

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

Synology DS425+ NAS – Price and Release Date

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

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Découvrez le nouveau NAS Synology DS925+ équipé de 4 baies de disques, 2 emplacements SSD M.2 et 2 interfaces réseau 2.5 GbE. Voici l'essentiel à savoir.

The post Test Synology DS925+ : un nouveau NAS 4 baies avec 2 interfaces réseau 2.5 GbE first appeared on IT-Connect.

Synology at Computex 2025 – New NAS, Flash, and Surveillance Solutions Unveiled

At Computex 2025, Synology unveiled an extensive range of new hardware and storage solutions across both consumer and enterprise tiers. From compact desktop NAS to high-performance rackmount flash storage systems, the 2025 product line spans diverse use cases in home multimedia, business backups, AI-powered surveillance, and parallel active storage infrastructure. However, a significant underlying theme across this year’s announcements is Synology’s strict enforcement of Synology-verified storage media across both the Plus series and enterprise-class devices.

This ongoing shift in policy has raised concerns within the NAS community—especially among users who rely on third-party drives for flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Messaging around this storage validation system remains inconsistent, with key technical and strategic details still unclear. Nonetheless, this year’s lineup confirms Synology’s intent to consolidate hardware and media under its own ecosystem, even while expanding its presence into flash-first infrastructure and turnkey surveillance platforms.

PAS7700 – Flagship NVMe Enterprise Rackmount Storage

The PAS7700 marks Synology’s formal entry into high-performance all-NVMe storage for the enterprise sector. It is the most powerful product in the new Parallel Active Storage (PAS) series, designed with a dual-controller architecture and full end-to-end U.3 NVMe support. Each controller in the PAS7700 is powered by an AMD EPYC processor, supports up to 1TB of DDR4 ECC memory, and is capable of sustaining 30GB/s sequential throughput with over 2 million 4K random read IOPS. This architecture supports true active-active failover, high concurrency, and data consistency across large virtualized workloads or AI/ML pipelines.

Networking options include up to 4x 100GbE and 12x 25GbE ports (via optional NICs), and expansion is achieved using the PAX224, a 24-bay U.3 NVMe expansion chassis connected via HD-SAS 12Gb/s dual-link architecture. The PAS7700’s chassis is built to scale up to 216 NVMe drives for a maximum raw capacity exceeding 1.6PB, though real-world capacity will depend on drive model, RAID configuration, and overhead.

One of the more contentious elements is that, like all of Synology’s 2025 enterprise lineup, the PAS7700 mandates the use of Synology-verified U.3 NVMe SSDs. The drives shown on the show floor included 8TB Synology-branded U.3 SSDs, though Synology did not confirm their OEM origin, controller model, or endurance ratings beyond stating that they were optimized for sustained IOPS workloads. This storage lock-in policy has drawn criticism from users seeking flexibility in enterprise deployments.

PAS7700 Specifications

PAS3600 – Hybrid Flash Storage for Cost-Efficient Deployment

Positioned as the mid-range sibling to the PAS7700, the PAS3600 provides a more accessible entry into the Parallel Active Storage series by utilizing SATA drives rather than U.3 NVMe. Designed for hybrid flash deployment, the PAS3600 features dual controllers, each running an Intel Xeon processor and supporting up to 256GB of ECC DDR4 memory per controller. While it doesn’t match the raw performance of the PAS7700, it still delivers substantial throughput and redundancy suitable for enterprise virtual machine hosting, storage tiering, and backup environments.

Network connectivity includes support for up to 4x 25GbE and 8x 10GbE ports via optional NICs, with the system capable of scaling out using the PAX212, a 12-bay SATA flash expansion chassis. These expansion units also use 12Gb/s HD-SAS, and maintain redundant power supplies and dual data interconnects to ensure performance stability and non-disruptive scaling. Like the rest of Synology’s 2025 enterprise systems, the PAS3600 enforces the use of Synology-verified SATA SSDs, understandable in this sector of the industry and in line with this kind fo product.

PAS3600 Specifications

DVA7400 – AI-Powered Surveillance Rackmount System

The DVA7400 represents the most powerful surveillance solution Synology has introduced to date. It is the first in the DVA (Deep Video Analytics) lineup to be available in a rackmount form factor, making it suitable for larger, centralized surveillance deployments. The unit leverages an AMD Ryzen processor in combination with a dedicated GPU, enabling support for up to 100 camera streams and 40 simultaneous AI video analysis tasks, such as motion detection, facial recognition, and people counting.

In terms of connectivity, the DVA7400 includes dual 10GbE ports to ensure adequate bandwidth for high-resolution video ingestion and management. Additionally, it features a separate remote management interface, streamlining system oversight in enterprise environments. Internally, the system includes a dedicated AI processor with 190+ TFLOPS FP8 performance and 16GB of VRAM, allowing for real-time video indexing and recognition tasks.

As with most Synology surveillance systems, the DVA7400 includes a limited number of camera licenses by default. However, users deploying Synology-branded cameras benefit from license-free operation. Support for ONVIF-compliant third-party cameras is included but requires standard Synology Surveillance Station licenses. While the hardware is a significant leap forward, the system’s drive compatibility remains subject questionable, as the brand does not currently have an inhouse branded surveillance optimized HDD (eg comparable to WD Purple or Seagate Skyhawk – designed for much heavier WRITE over READ).

DVA7400 Specifications

FS200T – Compact All-Flash NAS for Quiet Environments

The FS200T, formerly expected as the DS625Slim, is now reclassified under the FlashStation series. This compact 6-bay NAS is designed for SSD-only deployments using 2.5″ SATA drives, and is aimed at users needing high-speed, low-noise storage in home studios or small office environments. Internally, it is powered by the Intel Celeron J4125, a quad-core processor that, while dated, includes integrated graphics. It is paired with 4GB of DDR4 memory, which is not ECC and may limit enterprise use.

Network connectivity includes 1x 2.5GbE and 1x 1GbE RJ-45 ports, a configuration that presents a noticeable bottleneck when combined with a 6-SSD RAID setup. No PCIe or expansion options are available. Despite the performance limitations imposed by its dated processor and limited bandwidth, the FS200T’s small form factor and flash-focused design make it a viable solution for read-heavy tasks or quiet operation environments where rotational noise from HDDs is undesirable.

FS200T Specifications

DS725+ – Dual-Bay Plus Series NAS with Expansion Support

The DS725+ is Synology’s latest 2-bay entry in the 2025 Plus series, offering modest upgrades over its predecessor, the DS723+. It features a 2-core, 4-thread AMD Ryzen R1600 processor, 4GB of ECC DDR4 memory (expandable), and includes two Ethernet ports: one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE. Unlike the previous model, the option for PCIe 10GbE upgrade has been removed, marking a notable downgrade in scalability.

Despite its small size, the DS725+ supports expansion up to 7 total drives using the Synology DX525 USB-C expansion unit, allowing users to migrate to larger RAID arrays over time. Internally, it includes two M.2 NVMe slots that can be used for either SSD caching or storage pools, enhancing read/write performance if properly configured. However, NVMe performance may still be limited by the relatively modest CPU and system architecture.

As with all 2025+ series units, this model enforces strict use of Synology-verified drives for optimal compatibility. This includes both the internal SATA bays and NVMe SSDs, aligning with Synology’s broader shift to a closed hardware ecosystem—an approach that continues to draw mixed reactions from the NAS community.

DS725+ Specifications

DS425+ – 4-Bay Multimedia NAS with Modest Refresh

The DS425+ is the 2025 refresh of the DS423+, aimed at SOHO and multimedia users seeking a 4-bay system with enhanced network throughput and M.2 NVMe support. Internally, the DS425+ continues to use the Intel Celeron J4125, a quad-core processor with integrated graphics, and comes with 4GB of DDR4 non-ECC memory. This model includes two Ethernet ports—1x 2.5GbE and 1x 1GbE—a somewhat disappointing choice that limits link aggregation potential and overall throughput compared to systems offering dual 2.5GbE.

The DS425+ includes two M.2 NVMe slots, usable for either SSD caching or as part of a storage pool. However, given the CPU and system bus limitations of the J4125, real-world NVMe performance may be constrained. There are no PCIe upgrade slots, meaning no pathway to 10GbE or further expansion beyond USB and the DX525 expansion unit.

Crucially, as part of the 2025 Plus series, the DS425+ requires Synology-verified drives for compatibility—both for its SATA and NVMe bays. This has led to pushback from users accustomed to broader drive support, especially in the mid-range where cost-effectiveness and flexibility are often more important than validation.

DS425+ Specifications

DS1525+ – 5-Bay All-Purpose NAS with Enhanced CPU and Expansion

The DS1525+ sits in the middle of Synology’s Plus series, offering a blend of scalability, multimedia handling, and business backup functionality. It upgrades the CPU from the DS1522+ by moving from the AMD Ryzen R1600 (2C/4T) to the AMD Ryzen V1500B, a 4-core, 8-thread processor that previously powered the DS1621+ and DS1821+. The system comes pre-installed with 8GB of DDR4 ECC memory, double that of its predecessor.

The DS1525+ includes two 2.5GbE RJ-45 network ports and supports the Synology Network Upgrade Module, which provides a pathway to 10GbE networking via a compact add-in module. This model also retains two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching or storage pool creation. It supports expansion to 15 total drives when connected to two DX525 expansion units, making it suitable for growing media libraries or multi-user project environments.

However, it still falls under Synology’s 2025 policy requiring Synology-verified storage media, both for the five primary SATA bays and the M.2 NVMe slots. This requirement continues to stir user debate, particularly in the mid-range segment, where third-party storage flexibility has historically been an expectation.

DS1525+ Specifications

DS1825+ – 8-Bay High-Capacity NAS for Power Users and SMBs

The DS1825+ serves as the high-capacity flagship in the 2025 Plus series, aimed at power users and small to medium businesses that require extensive storage and moderate processing capabilities. Like the DS1525+, it is powered by the AMD Ryzen V1500B (4 cores, 8 threads) and includes 8GB of ECC DDR4 memory by default. The unit offers two 2.5GbE RJ-45 ports, replacing the four 1GbE ports found in its predecessor, the DS1821+.

Storage can be expanded up to 18 total drives by connecting two DX525 expansion units via USB-C. The DS1825+ also includes two M.2 NVMe slots, supporting both SSD caching and dedicated NVMe storage pools. Unlike the DS1525+, it retains a standard PCIe slot, supporting full-sized 10GbE and higher NICs—with Synology now offering 25GbE and 50GbE upgrade cards, expanding its relevance in virtualization and high-bandwidth media workflows.

However, as with all devices in the 2025 Plus series, the DS1825+ enforces Synology’s drive verification system. Only Synology-verified SATA drives and NVMe SSDs are supported for optimal operation, and unsupported drives may be flagged or disabled in future DSM updates—a policy that continues to concern experienced users building mixed-brand NAS environments.

DS1825+ Specifications

DX525 – 5-Bay Expansion Unit for DS and Plus Series

The DX525 is Synology’s latest 5-bay expansion unit, designed for use with a wide range of their 2025 DS and Plus series NAS models. It connects via USB-C rather than the older eSATA standard, supporting newer devices such as the DS725+, DS425+, DS1525+, DS1825+, DS925+, and others.

It provides a seamless way to expand storage without migrating to a larger system or creating a new volume, and is fully integrated into DSM’s Storage Manager for volume extension and RAID expansion.

The DX525 supports both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA drives, with hot-swappable trays for quick replacement. While no network or processing capability exists on the unit itself (it’s entirely dependent on the host NAS), it can be used for extending existing RAID volumes or creating new independent volumes. This makes it useful for both capacity growth and tiered storage strategies.

DX525 Specifications

SNV5420 – Enterprise NVMe SSD for Sustained Caching Workloads

The SNV5400 is Synology’s newest high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD for caching and sustained-write workloads, positioned above the earlier SNV3400 series. Targeted at SMBs and enterprise deployments requiring high-speed caching, the SNV5400 delivers up to 660,000 random read IOPS and 120,000 random write IOPS, with a rated endurance of 2,900 TBW. It features end-to-end data protection and power loss protection, ensuring data integrity during unexpected shutdowns—essential for cache-tier applications in critical environments.

Unlike previous Synology NVMe SSDs, the SNV5400 also supports in-system firmware upgrades, reducing maintenance downtime during drive management or lifecycle refresh. It is available in at least one confirmed variant, though broader capacity options have not yet been fully disclosed. The controller used is reportedly the IG5636 FAA, believed to be a Gen4 NVMe controller, but Synology has not publicly confirmed full hardware details or OEM sourcing. In addition to the SNV5400 enterprise drive, Synology showed off a new high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD at Computex 2025 that appears to target heavier workloads than the SNV3400. It reportedly uses the IG5636 FAA controller, which supports PCIe Gen4, suggesting significantly higher throughput than their current Gen3 offerings. However, Synology did not publicly confirm specs such as endurance, capacity range, or the NAND type used.

This unnamed SSD is presumed to be part of a future SNV or new series aimed at advanced caching, AI workloads, or even storage pool applications in high-performance Plus and enterprise NAS models. Synology staff on the show floor were unable to confirm OEM origins or whether this model would be mandatory in future NVMe-capable systems.

HAT5300 20TB – Synology’s Largest Enterprise-Grade HDD

The HAT5300 20TB is the latest and highest-capacity addition to Synology’s line of enterprise SATA hard drives, extending the HAT5300 series for large-volume and high-workload environments. Designed specifically for compatibility with Synology’s 2025 NAS and SAN systems, this 3.5-inch SATA drive offers up to 23% higher sustained sequential read performance than previous models, positioning it as a reliable option for high-throughput backup, archival, and surveillance storage tasks.

The drive supports workloads of up to 550 TB/year, making it suitable for 24/7 operation in business-critical storage arrays. It also includes persistent write cache technology, which helps preserve data integrity during power loss events. Like other models in the HAT5300 line, this drive undergoes over 500,000 hours of internal validation on Synology systems and supports in-system firmware upgrades directly via DSM.

This is currerntly the largest hard drive offered by Synology in their existing line up of storage media drives.

HAT5300 20TB Specifications

BeeStation Plus – Preconfigured Private Cloud with Plex and AI Tools

The BeeStation Plus is Synology’s latest entry in the consumer-grade NAS lineup, positioned as a plug-and-play private cloud aimed at home users, content creators, and families. It comes pre-populated with an 8TB Synology HAT3300 Plus hard drive, sealed within a single-bay enclosure that does not allow for internal drive replacement or expansion. This closed-box approach prioritizes simplicity but removes RAID failover and user-serviceability, relying instead on USB or cloud-based backups.

Internally, the BeeStation Plus runs on an Intel Celeron J4125 processor—an aging but capable quad-core CPU with integrated graphics. It is paired with 8GB of memory, doubling that of the original ARM-based BeeStation. The device ships with Synology’s BeeStation Manager (BSM) software preinstalled and fully configured Plex Media Server, with media libraries and directories already initialized, enabling fast setup for streaming to smart TVs, tablets, and mobile devices. It also features local AI-powered photo indexing and object recognition via Bee Photos.

Backup support includes USB-A and USB-C ports, as well as integration with BeeProtect, Synology’s new cloud backup platform. Each BeeStation Plus includes a 3-month free trial of BeeProtect, after which it transitions to a subscription model. While this system offers some of the easiest Plex deployment in Synology’s portfolio, users should be aware of its limitations—chiefly, the lack of RAID protection, upgrade paths storage scalability limits.

BeeStation Plus Specifications

DS225+ – Budget 2-Bay NAS for Entry-Level Users

The DS225+ is Synology’s entry-level 2-bay NAS refresh for 2025, intended for home users, small backups, and basic multimedia needs. It features the same Intel Celeron J4125 processor found in the DS425+ and BeeStation Plus—offering integrated graphics but limited modern performance. Paired with 4GB of DDR4 memory, the system supports two SATA bays, making it suitable for mirrored RAID 1 setups or small independent volumes.

In terms of connectivity, the DS225+ includes 1 x 2.5GbE and 1 x 1GbE Ethernet ports—adequate for most basic workloads, but still a step behind systems offering dual 2.5GbE or upgradable networking. The system lack the two M.2 NVMe slots that can be configured for SSD caching or used as additional storage pools in the DS725+.

While the DS225+ offers a very approachable route into NAS usage, it is subject to the same Synology-verified storage media policy as the rest of the 2025 series. Users are limited to verified drives for both SATA bays will be especially annying at a device level that is considered very, very ‘entry’, which continues to frustrate those hoping to reuse older hardware or source drives independently.

DS225+ Specifications

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Des échanges engagés ont récemment émergé sur Cachem, y compris autour d’un sujet qui peut sembler anodin : l’USB. Lors de mes derniers tests, je n’avais pas pris le temps de me pencher spécifiquement sur le nouveau port USB Type-C intégré aux modèles de la gamme Synology DSx25+. Ce port soulève pourtant de nombreuses interrogations, voire des frustrations, chez plusieurs utilisateurs. Certains affirment qu’il est inutilisable, d’autres prétendent qu’il fonctionne normalement. Après plusieurs tests, je peux vous le confirmer : ce port est bel et bien restreint dans son usage.

Un nouveau port… mais pas pour tous les usages

Avec l’arrivée des NAS Synology DSx25+, l’USB Type-C fait son apparition à l’arrière des appareils. Celui-ci remplace le port eSATA présent sur les générations précédentes, utilisé notamment pour connecter des unités d’expansion (comme les DX517). Ce changement pourrait être vu comme une modernisation bienvenue, mais dans les faits, il s’accompagne d’une limitation importante.

Alors que l’eSATA permettait aussi d’y connecter des supports de stockage externes (exemple : un disque dur externe avec Hyper Backup), ce n’est plus possible avec l’USB Type-C des nouveaux modèles. Synology a verrouillé l’usage de ce port à un seul scénario : la connexion d’une unité d’expansion DX525.

Des tests concluants… dans le mauvais sens

Pour lever tout doute, j’ai effectué plusieurs tests pratiques. Résultat : aucun périphérique de stockage externe n’a été reconnu. J’ai essayé une clé USB, un SSD externe, même un smartphone : aucune détection, aucune charge. J’ai poussé l’expérience jusqu’à brancher un câble Thunderbolt 4 relié à un PC (oui, on peut toujours rêver). Là encore, aucune réaction du système.

Ces essais confirment sans ambiguïté que le port USB Type-C n’est pas un port polyvalent. Il ne peut pas être utilisé pour de la sauvegarde, du transfert de fichiers ou même pour recharger un appareil. Il est exclusivement réservé à l’unité d’expansion Synology DX525. Ce verrouillage logiciel (ou matériel) est volontaire.

Une tendance inquiétante chez Synology

Cette limitation n’est malheureusement pas un cas isolé. Depuis quelque temps, Synology restreint de plus en plus les usages possibles sur ses NAS. On se souvient des contraintes imposées sur les disques durs récemment, avec des messages d’avertissement ou des fonctions limitées pour ceux qui n’utilisent pas des modèles « compatibles » ou certifiés. Aujourd’hui, l’USB Type-C subit le même sort.

Ce verrouillage peut poser problème, notamment pour les utilisateurs avancés ou professionnels qui recherchent une certaine flexibilité. À titre d’exemple, le modèle DS1825+ ne propose que 3 ports USB standards (Type-A), alors que son prédécesseur (le DS1821+) en offrait 4. La perte de polyvalence est bien réelle…

En synthèse

Le choix de Synology de restreindre l’usage du port USB Type-C à l’unité DX525 est clairement assumé, mais il ne manquera pas de faire débat. Si certains y voient une façon de simplifier l’écosystème et d’en garantir la stabilité, d’autres y verront une stratégie de verrouillage destinée à pousser à l’achat de matériel propriétaire.

Dans tous les cas, il est important que les utilisateurs soient informés. Si vous comptiez utiliser ce port USB Type-C pour du stockage externe, sachez que ce ne sera pas possible. Une limitation qu’il vaut mieux connaître avant d’acheter.

Synology DS725+ Expandable 2-Bay NAS Revealed

The Synology DS725+ enters the scene as part of the company’s 2025 refresh to its Plus Series lineup, targeting power users, small businesses, and edge deployments that require compact, capable storage solutions without stepping into rackmount or enterprise territory. As a successor to the DS723+, it introduces several meaningful updates that improve the system’s usability right out of the box—most notably, a doubling of base memory to 4 GB ECC DDR4 (up from 2 GB) and the inclusion of a 2.5GbE LAN port for significantly faster network transfers, especially when working with high-resolution media or syncing large datasets across offices. These improvements make it immediately better suited for modern hybrid cloud workflows via Synology Drive, smoother multi-user access in Synology Photos and Office, and more responsive local performance in Surveillance Station environments. However, these upgrades come with trade-offs: the CPU remains unchanged, using the same AMD Ryzen R1600 found in the DS723+, and the PCIe slot has been removed, eliminating the popular option to upgrade to 10GbE networking or install additional specialized cards. As a result, while the DS725+ simplifies connectivity by offering faster speeds upfront, it also enforces a more rigid hardware configuration. It’s a device clearly designed with platform consistency and managed environments in mind—particularly when paired with Synology’s increasingly closed ecosystem of verified drives and accessories. For those already aligned with Synology’s ecosystem, the DS725+ offers a stable and streamlined solution for private cloud deployment that is more about ability than base storage – but with the option to add more later, collaborative data workflows, and secure backup environments. But does it deserve your data? Let’s discuss.

Synology DS725+ NAS – Hardware Specifications

The DS725+ is powered by the same dual-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor found in its predecessor, the DS723+. This chip runs at a base clock of 2.6 GHz with a boost up to 3.1 GHz and supports hardware encryption acceleration, making it capable of handling simultaneous services like encrypted file access, Synology Drive syncing, and light virtual machine workloads. While it’s a competent processor for this class of NAS, its reuse in the DS725+ may be seen as a missed opportunity for users who were hoping for a newer or more power-efficient generation—particularly with rising expectations around AI-powered indexing and multimedia transcoding. That said, DSM 7.2’s core apps like Hyper Backup, Snapshot Replication, and Active Backup Suite remain well within the CPU’s performance envelope, ensuring reliable day-to-day operations for home offices and remote workers.

Where the DS725+ makes a clear improvement is in memory. Unlike the DS723+, which shipped with 2 GB of ECC RAM, the DS725+ doubles the default capacity to 4 GB ECC DDR4, offering more breathing room for multitasking, container workloads, and collaborative apps like Synology Office and Chat. This is particularly helpful for deployments using packages such as Synology MailPlus or managing multiple Surveillance Station camera streams. The RAM is installed in one of two available SODIMM slots, and the unit officially supports up to 32 GB (16 GB x2), making it suitable for heavier use cases like running multiple virtual DSM instances or handling extensive indexing operations in Synology Photos. ECC memory, while not strictly essential for all users, adds a layer of data integrity that reinforces the DS725+’s suitability for professional and production environments.

In terms of connectivity, the DS725+ makes a decisive shift by replacing the DS723+’s dual 1GbE ports with a more modern setup: one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port. This move improves real-world transfer speeds out of the box without requiring a PCIe network upgrade, as was previously necessary. However, it also reflects a deliberate limitation: the PCIe Gen3 x2 slot from the DS723+ is no longer present, meaning users cannot add a 10GbE NIC or other expansion cards. Storage-wise, the DS725+ retains the same 2-bay SATA layout, supports hot-swappable 3.5″/2.5″ drives, and introduces M.2 NVMe SSD slots that allow Synology-branded SSDs to be used not just for caching but also for primary storage pools. Users can expand total storage to 7 drives via the DX525 USB-C expansion unit, and cooling is handled by a single 92mm fan in the rear. Power draw remains low, with a 90W adapter and idle consumption under 9W, keeping it efficient for always-on deployment.

Synology DS725+ vs DS723+ NAS – Much of an Upgrade?

At a glance, the DS725+ and DS723+ appear to be cut from the same mold. They share the same AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core processor, identical physical dimensions, drive bay count, and expansion potential via an optional five-bay unit. However, the DS725+ makes several deliberate design changes aimed at improving out-of-the-box usability, while also signaling a shift toward Synology’s 2025 platform philosophy. Chief among these changes is the inclusion of a 2.5GbE LAN port, replacing one of the two 1GbE ports found on the DS723+. This upgrade allows users to immediately take advantage of higher bandwidth for file transfers, especially useful for larger datasets handled through Synology Drive or multimedia libraries accessed via SMB. At the same time, the DS725+ sheds the DS723+’s PCIe Gen3 x2 expansion slot, which means users no longer have the option to add a 10GbE NIC or other cards. For users needing maximum future-proofing or high-throughput workloads, this loss may feel restrictive.

Another key improvement is in system memory. The DS725+ comes with 4 GB of ECC DDR4 RAM pre-installed, doubling the 2 GB included with the DS723+. This seemingly modest upgrade has real-world implications. Services like Synology Photos, which require more memory for AI-driven facial and object recognition, or Synology Office, which handles collaborative document editing, benefit directly from the added RAM—making the system more responsive and able to support more concurrent users from the outset. For users running multiple applications, hosting virtual DSMs, or leveraging Hyper Backup with compression and deduplication, the DS725+ delivers a more capable base configuration without requiring immediate memory expansion. Both systems support upgrades up to 32 GB, but the DS725+ gives a head start where it matters.

However, the most controversial difference between these two models lies in drive compatibility. The DS723+ was among the last in Synology’s lineup to offer relatively open support for third-party drives—with warning banners but no functional blocks in DSM. The DS725+, by contrast, fully embraces Synology’s walled-garden storage policy. Users must use Synology-verified drives (such as HAT3300/5300 HDDs and SNV3400 SSDs) for core operations like DSM installation, volume creation, and RAID rebuilds. While migrated pools using unverified drives may still mount with warnings, new deployments and expansions are effectively locked down. This shift reflects Synology’s strategy to control hardware variables for improved stability and long-term support—but it’s also a clear trade-off in flexibility and total cost, especially for existing users with stockpiled third-party drives from trusted vendors like Seagate or WD.

Synology DS725+ NAS DSM Software & Services

Like all current-generation DiskStation models, the DS725+ runs on Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.2, a mature, Linux-based operating system that delivers one of the most refined NAS user experiences available today. DSM combines consumer-friendly accessibility with enterprise-ready tools, making the DS725+ suitable for a wide range of use cases—from personal media libraries to business-critical collaboration environments.

Core services such as Synology Drive transform the DS725+ into a fully private cloud, enabling real-time file syncing across devices and platforms, granular access permissions, file versioning, and web-based document previews. The system can support up to 50 Drive users and half a million hosted files, making it a capable solution for small teams managing shared datasets or projects. Meanwhile, Synology Photos leverages the upgraded system memory to provide intelligent media organization, with facial and object recognition that improves as additional photos are indexed—an increasingly valuable feature in creative or archival workflows.

For data protection and business continuity, the DS725+ supports Synology’s comprehensive backup ecosystem. Active Backup Suite consolidates backup tasks for Windows and Linux endpoints, VMware and Hyper-V virtual machines, and Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace SaaS accounts. Administrators can automate tasks, monitor statuses from a unified console, and execute bare-metal recovery when needed.

Complementing this is Hyper Backup, which allows multi-destination backups—ranging from local USB storage to other NAS units, rsync targets, or Synology C2 Storage. The inclusion of Snapshot Replication provides near-instantaneous versioned recovery with 128 snapshots per shared folder and 256 per system, ensuring protection against data corruption, ransomware, or accidental deletion. These tools can be used together to create a robust, layered protection strategy even in a small-scale deployment.

Beyond file management and backup, DSM turns the DS725+ into a complete digital operations hub. With Synology Office, users can co-author documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in real time within a browser—ideal for small teams replacing Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 with a private alternative. Communication tools like Synology Chat and MailPlus offer encrypted messaging and a scalable private email server with support for up to 60 users (5 free accounts included).

For security-conscious setups or compliance-driven environments, these services operate entirely within your NAS, without relying on third-party cloud platforms. Meanwhile, Surveillance Station allows the DS725+ to manage up to 40 IP cameras at 1080p (H.265) with license-free recording for two channels, making it a competent choice for office or home surveillance when paired with Synology’s mobile and desktop apps. DSM’s inclusion of Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (AMFA), Active Insight fleet monitoring, and SSL/TLS support ensures that even this compact 2-bay NAS delivers serious administrative and security capabilities.

Synology DS725+ NAS Release and Price

The Synology DS725+ is set for a phased global release, with initial availability rolling out across Eastern markets—including Japan, Taiwan, China, and Australia—in late May 2025, followed by a wider international launch in June 2025. While Synology has yet to publish official retail pricing, the DS725+ is expected to arrive in line with its predecessor, the DS723+, placing it in the $449 to $499 USD range. This positions the DS725+ in the upper tier of the compact 2-bay NAS segment, offering a blend of business-capable performance and centralized storage management for prosumers, remote workers, and small teams.

Although its specifications remain similar to the DS723+ in some areas—particularly with regard to the CPU—the DS725+ includes default features like 2.5GbE networking and higher base memory, which previously required add-ons or manual upgrades. These improvements may appeal to users who want a more capable system straight out of the box without needing to invest in additional hardware. However, buyers should also be aware of the tightened hardware compatibility policy introduced across Synology’s 2025 product line. As with other new-generation models, the DS725+ requires Synology-verified drives for key operations such as DSM installation, volume creation, and SSD caching, which could impact overall system cost and drive choice flexibility.

Given these factors, the DS725+ is best suited for users seeking a stable, tightly integrated NAS experience with long-term software support and advanced functionality provided through DSM. While those with existing third-party drives may need to consider compatibility constraints, the DS725+ still represents a focused and modernized solution in the 2-bay NAS category—particularly for those fully aligned with Synology’s expanding ecosystem.

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The Zimaboard 2 Single Board Server Review – The Best Yet?

In an increasingly saturated market of single-board computers and compact servers, the ZimaBoard 2 arrives with a clear goal: to offer an affordable, x86-powered, DIY-friendly alternative that bridges the gap between embedded systems and full-blown home servers. Developed by IceWhale, a brand that has already seen crowdfunding success with products like the original ZimaBoard, ZimaBlade, and ZimaCube, the ZimaBoard 2 aims to refine the company’s mission of delivering low-power, highly customizable devices for tinkerers, creators, and homelab enthusiasts. At its core, the ZimaBoard 2 is designed for users who want flexibility without complexity—whether that’s spinning up a lightweight virtualization platform, building a smart home hub, deploying a personal cloud, or running a local media server with minimal noise and energy consumption.

Unlike consumer-grade NAS systems or ARM-based boards, ZimaBoard 2 taps into the x86 ecosystem, offering broader OS compatibility and performance benefits while maintaining a compact, passively cooled footprint. This review explores the hardware, thermal and network performance, and software environment of the ZimaBoard 2, evaluating where it fits in the broader landscape of edge computing and personal infrastructure. As with previous IceWhale launches, this unit is being released initially through crowdfunding—a factor that calls for cautious optimism. Still, with a track record of fulfilling past campaigns, IceWhale appears confident in ZimaBoard 2’s readiness. Whether that confidence is justified, and whether the board truly earns its place in a crowded DIY server landscape, is what we’ll determine over the course of this review.

Zimaboard 2 Review – Quick Conclusion

The ZimaBoard 2 is a compact, x86-based single board server that strikes a balance between flexibility, efficiency, and affordability. It offers solid performance for its size, thanks to an Intel N150 processor, dual 2.5GbE ports, and a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot for meaningful expansion, making it suitable for tasks like media serving, light virtualization, and home automation. However, limitations such as non-upgradable 8GB RAM, slow onboard eMMC storage, and reliance on passive cooling require careful consideration for more demanding workloads. ZimaOS provides a user-friendly starting point with Docker support and basic file management, though advanced users may prefer to install alternative operating systems. Overall, the ZimaBoard 2 is a capable and well-engineered device for DIY server enthusiasts who understand its constraints and plan their use case accordingly

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.

NOTE – You can visit the Zimaboard 2 Crowdfunding Page (live from 10:30AM ET 22nd April 2025) by clicking the banner below. The entry price for early backers is $169, but that will revert to $179 (and $239 for a scaled-up storage and memory version). I DO NOT receive any kind of affiliate commission or sponsorship for this review (and this review, like all reviews at NASCompares, was done without the brand in question’s interference or input). You can use the link HERE to see the campaign for yourself and/or click the banner below:

Zimaboard 2 Review – Design and Hardware

The physical build of the ZimaBoard 2 continues IceWhale’s trend of delivering thoughtfully designed hardware. The full aluminum enclosure gives the board a sturdy, premium feel, while also serving as its main cooling surface. Every port is clearly labeled, and the board layout is practical and accessible.

The PCIe slot includes a pre-cut section to accommodate longer cards, allowing for flexibility even in this small form factor. IceWhale also includes eco-friendly packaging, a detail that reflects both brand identity and attention to user experience. A cardboard insert allows users to hold the board upright alongside drives, useful for initial setup before a case is selected.

Optional accessories like a SATA adapter board with combined data/power connectors and third-party-compatible drive cages help complete the DIY experience. However, there are some practical limitations to consider: the soldered RAM means users must carefully plan for memory demands, and the internal storage, while functional, will not satisfy users looking for fast OS performance.

At the core of the ZimaBoard 2 is the Intel N150 processor, part of Intel’s Twin Lake architecture, offering four cores with a base clock that boosts up to 3.6GHz. This chip represents a significant step forward compared to the Celeron N3450 used in the original ZimaBoard, delivering better single-thread and multi-thread performance while maintaining a low 6W TDP.

Complementing the CPU is 8GB of LPDDR5x memory clocked at 4800MHz. While the use of fast memory is a welcome improvement, the limitation lies in its soldered nature—users cannot expand beyond this capacity.

This decision may be acceptable for light workloads such as running a Plex server, Docker containers, or Home Assistant, but it could become a bottleneck for users planning to run multiple VMs or resource-heavy services. The N150 CPU does support hardware virtualization and Intel AES-NI, which is essential for tasks like encrypted storage or virtual machine deployment.

In testing scenarios, the CPU delivered solid performance across typical tasks, and managed to keep up during multi-tasked environments with multiple services active. However, users with ambitions for more demanding applications will need to balance those expectations against the non-upgradable memory ceiling.

ZimaBoard 2 comes with 32GB of onboard eMMC storage, a choice that is both practical and limiting. This eMMC module is soldered to the board and is intended to house ZimaOS out of the box, giving users a ready-to-use system upon first boot. While this inclusion lowers the barrier to entry and simplifies setup for beginners, it presents performance limitations and a lack of flexibility. In testing, write speeds hovered around 35MB/s during mixed I/O operations, which is noticeably slow for tasks that involve frequent read/write cycles.

Moreover, should a user opt to install a different OS—such as TrueNAS SCALE, Proxmox, or Unraid—they would either overwrite the bundled ZimaOS or need to boot from an external USB or PCIe-based drive. Since the internal storage is neither M.2 nor socketed, it lacks the speed and modularity enthusiasts often seek in modern setups. As a result, users planning to use ZimaBoard 2 as a primary virtualization or storage server are better off supplementing it with faster storage via USB 3.1, SATA, or the PCIe slot for booting alternative OS environments. This caveat underscores a recurring theme with ZimaBoard 2: it’s well-positioned for entry-level use but requires external upgrades for more ambitious workflows.

One of the ZimaBoard 2’s most compelling features is its inclusion of two SATA 3.0 ports alongside a full PCIe 3.0 x4 slot. This greatly expands the device’s potential beyond typical SBCs, offering users a reliable way to build custom NAS setups, integrate high-speed NVMe storage, or even install networking and accelerator cards. During testing, a Synology combo card featuring two M.2 NVMe slots and a 10GbE Ethernet port was installed in the PCIe slot. The board successfully recognized all interfaces, demonstrating full PCIe compatibility and allowing throughput measurements to confirm the system could push high-bandwidth traffic.

With up to 4GB/s of bandwidth over PCIe, users can install expansion cards for fast storage, additional networking, or even compute offloading—although the small form factor means thermal and power considerations become important quickly. The SATA ports, while standard in speed, proved perfectly functional for connecting 2.5″ SSDs or traditional HDDs. IceWhale’s own accessories, like SATA power adapters and drive cages, help streamline this process, though third-party solutions work just as well.

For users aiming to transform this board into a flexible micro-server, this PCIe slot is a gateway to many possibilities and a key reason ZimaBoard 2 stands out in its category.

In terms of networking, the ZimaBoard 2 comes equipped with two 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, both powered by Intel chipsets—a choice that emphasizes reliability and driver compatibility across various operating systems. These ports are more than just a checkbox feature; they performed reliably under load and achieved full link saturation during file transfer tests and when used in conjunction with PCIe expansion.

In more advanced setups, users can configure bonding or load balancing to maximize throughput or redundancy. Additionally, there are two USB 3.1 ports for attaching external drives, peripherals, or USB-bootable OS images.

The inclusion of a Mini DisplayPort 1.2 allows for 4K video output at 60Hz, which is useful for users who want to use the board as a lightweight desktop or for initial OS installation and diagnostics—though it does require an adapter to convert to standard HDMI. Notably absent is built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which aligns with its target audience of wired-first home labs and embedded installations. Overall, ZimaBoard 2 offers a well-rounded set of connectivity options that exceed expectations for its size, with the dual 2.5GbE ports making it particularly attractive for networking-focused use cases like firewalls, proxies, or containerized gateways.

Thermal management on the ZimaBoard 2 is entirely passive, with the aluminum enclosure doubling as a heatsink to dissipate heat away from the CPU and other key components. This fanless approach results in completely silent operation, which is ideal for home or office environments where noise is a concern.

However, the trade-off is that the board’s temperature will steadily rise over time, especially in enclosed cases or cabinets with poor airflow. During idle operation, with minimal system load and attached drives in standby, temperatures hovered around 50°C after an hour, increasing slightly to 52–54°C over a 24-hour window.

Under heavier usage—including Plex playback, VM activity, active networking, and full PCIe slot utilization—the system remained thermally stable but showed significant heat buildup. Power consumption in these high-usage scenarios peaked at approximately 39–40W, which is quite efficient given the workload.

Still, users planning to run the board continuously under load are strongly encouraged to introduce active airflow or leave the system in a well-ventilated space. The all-metal build is a clever and minimalist solution, but it has practical limitations that users need to plan for—especially if operating in warmer environments or planning to enclose the unit in a tight chassis.

When put through real-world workloads, the ZimaBoard 2 delivered performance that largely aligned with its specs and design goals. File transfers over the onboard 2.5GbE interfaces reached full saturation in controlled conditions, proving the CPU and I/O subsystems are capable of pushing maximum throughput without significant bottlenecks. PCIe expansion further unlocked performance potential—especially with the Synology combo card, where simultaneous NVMe and 10GbE performance were tested. While NVMe read speeds reached up to 1.6GB/s, write speeds hovered around 500–700MB/s depending on traffic from the 10GbE port.

These variances are expected, given shared PCIe lanes and bandwidth contention, but overall results were respectable. Multimedia performance was also acceptable, with Plex running smoothly and able to stream and scrape metadata while supporting light VM usage concurrently.

In these scenarios, RAM utilization climbed past 50% and CPU usage approached 100%, but the board remained operational and responsive. It’s clear that ZimaBoard 2 is well-suited to low-to-moderate workloads, and can punch above its weight with strategic expansion. However, pushing it into more demanding territory—like simultaneous virtualization, AI inferencing, or high-speed file serving across multiple interfaces—will begin to test its limits.

The lack of active cooling makes thermal planning essential for any serious workload. But overall, the ZimaBoard 2 feels polished and reliable, with a design philosophy that caters well to its core audience of DIY server builders and edge compute experimenters.

Zimaboard 2 Review – Software

ZimaBoard 2 ships with ZimaOS, a custom-built operating system from IceWhale that is based on CasaOS—a lightweight, open-source platform designed for simplicity and ease of deployment. ZimaOS retains the core principles of CasaOS but adds refinements tailored to the Zima ecosystem, particularly features that emerged during development of the more powerful ZimaCube. The out-of-the-box experience is beginner-friendly, offering an intuitive web dashboard called “LaunchPad,” which centralizes access to installed applications, system controls, and file management.

ZimaOS is pre-installed on the board’s eMMC storage, enabling immediate setup without requiring users to flash a drive or download additional software. Despite the modest resources of the ZimaBoard 2, the OS performs responsively, even with several services running in parallel. The interface is clean, albeit minimalistic, focusing on usability over deep customization.

For users who are new to home servers or Docker deployments, the learning curve is surprisingly gentle. Though it lacks some of the granularity of more established platforms like OpenMediaVault or TrueNAS, it’s clear that IceWhale has designed ZimaOS to get users up and running quickly without sacrificing key functionality.

One of the more distinctive features of ZimaOS is its integrated App Store, which acts as a curated hub for Docker-based applications. Unlike traditional NAS interfaces that require command-line Docker commands or extensive Portainer configuration, ZimaOS simplifies deployment through one-click installation and automated environment setups.

Popular applications like Plex, Jellyfin, Stable Diffusion, and more are available by default, with the option to add third-party sources for broader container variety. Behind the scenes, the system leverages containerization frameworks to handle resource isolation and volume mappings, but much of this complexity is hidden from the end user.

Application setup is further eased by pre-configured defaults such as port assignments, directory structures, and even PUID/PGID settings, reducing friction for non-technical users. For those with more experience, ZimaOS still allows you to tweak or override these settings manually. Notably, ZimaOS also includes a basic virtualization interface that supports downloading and running lightweight VMs using prebuilt images.

While this feature is better suited to the higher-specced ZimaCube due to memory and cooling constraints, its presence on the ZimaBoard 2 is still a nice touch and shows that the OS is aiming to grow into a more comprehensive platform. Overall, the application and container ecosystem here punches above its weight, especially considering the resource constraints of the board itself.

In terms of storage and file sharing, ZimaOS delivers a capable if somewhat minimal feature set that prioritizes simplicity over enterprise-style depth. Users can create RAID groups—a new feature compared to earlier CasaOS iterations—manage individual drives, and set up file-level sharing using standard protocols like SMB.

The file manager, accessible through the main dashboard, allows for browsing, copying, and sharing content in a familiar web-based interface. Integration with IceWhale’s own client tool enables a peer-to-peer feature called “peerdrop,” which links multiple Zima-based systems or client devices (like phones and laptops) for rapid syncing and data exchange.

This is especially useful for users who want an easy method to upload media, backup devices, or move files between multiple systems on a local network. Remote access can be enabled through a simple relay-based mechanism, which generates shareable links for specific files or folders, complete with read/write controls. While more advanced access control, encryption, or user quotas are not present in this build, the essentials for home or small office use are here and function as expected.

Cloud integration is also available, allowing the addition of third-party storage such as Google Drive or Dropbox for backup or syncing purposes. Though ZimaOS doesn’t try to replace full-fledged NAS operating systems in terms of depth, it successfully delivers the features most users will need, and its lightweight design ensures responsiveness even on modest hardware like the ZimaBoard 2.

Zimaboard 2 Review – Conclusion & Verdict

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.

NOTE – You can visit the Zimaboard 2 Crowdfunding Page (live from 10:30AM ET 22nd April 2025) by clicking the banner below. The entry price for early backers is $169, but that will revert to $179 (and $239 for a scaled-up storage and memory version). I DO NOT receive any kind of affiliate commission or sponsorship for this review (and this review, like all reviews at NASCompares, was done without the brand in question’s interference or input). You can use the link HERE to see the campaign for yourself and/or click the banner below:

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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

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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  

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Synology Beestation Plus 8TB Revealed and Detailed

Synology has unveiled the BeeStation Plus (BST170-8T) in their pre-Computex build up (alongside an early reveal back in Jan 2025 at CES/Pepcom), the latest addition to its growing portfolio of personal cloud storage solutions aimed at everyday users. Building on the success of the original BeeStation (BST150-4T), the Plus model directly addresses feedback from users who wanted greater capacity, faster performance, and more versatile applications—without the steep learning curve of traditional NAS systems. This one-bay device ships pre-populated with an 8TB Synology HAT3310 hard drive (7200 RPM), powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 processor and 4GB of non-upgradable DDR4 memory. The combination is notable because it brings x86-class processing and hardware transcoding support to an ultra-simplified setup—something virtually unheard of in this form factor. With its out-of-the-box readiness, cloud-linked setup process, and focus on seamless user experience, BeeStation Plus is designed for those seeking to move away from Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox subscriptions, offering complete local control of data without compromising on usability. Features such as AI-driven photo management, native mobile apps, and Plex Media Server support are now included, making this device far more than just cold storage. For individuals and families looking to centralize their backups, photos, videos, and personal files in a user-friendly ecosystem—without paying monthly cloud fees—Synology positions the BeeStation Plus as an appealing middle ground between cloud services and more complex NAS platforms like the DiskStation DS224+.

Synology Beestation Plus 8TB – Who Is This For?

The BeeStation Plus is designed with a clear goal: to serve individuals, families, and small teams who want private, centralized storage without the barriers that typically come with managing a traditional NAS. It’s aimed at users who are familiar with cloud platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud, but want to move away from recurring subscription fees and the privacy concerns associated with third-party cloud storage. For many, the idea of hosting data locally remains appealing—yet the complexity of DSM-based Synology systems can be overwhelming. The BeeStation Plus sidesteps that entirely by offering a plug-and-play experience: no drive installation, no volume configuration, no knowledge of RAID, and no need to navigate DSM’s enterprise-leaning control panels.

Instead of DSM, BeeStation Plus runs a simplified, task-oriented operating system that emphasizes automation and immediacy. Setup is handled via a QR code and cloud-linked sign-in process using your existing Apple or Google account. Within minutes, users can begin backing up photos, syncing cloud drives, or transferring personal data using intuitive applications like BeePhotos and BeeFiles. Notably, BeePhotos offers local AI processing for face recognition and subject categorization—no data is sent to the cloud, and everything runs on-device using the integrated GPU in the Intel Celeron chip. These features mimic what users expect from modern photo cloud services, but with full local ownership.

Where the DiskStation platform caters to power users—with capabilities like multi-tiered storage pools, user-group policies, virtualization, Docker containers, and dual-LAN failover—BeeStation Plus avoids this complexity altogether. While some may view it as limiting, Synology has correctly identified a growing segment of mainstream users who simply want a secure, reliable, and easy-to-manage storage hub for their files, memories, and work. For them, BeeStation Plus delivers a near turn-key solution that doesn’t demand IT knowledge or ongoing configuration, while still offering meaningful tools like Plex integration, two-way cloud sync, and internal snapshot recovery.

Synology Beestation Plus 8TB – Hardware Specifications

At the heart of the Synology BeeStation Plus is the Intel Celeron J4125, a quad-core x86 processor that, while not cutting-edge, is a substantial leap from the Realtek RTD1619B used in the original BeeStation. The J4125 brings integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600, enabling hardware video transcoding—critical for smooth 4K Plex streaming and responsive AI-powered photo recognition within BeePhotos. This CPU choice also allows Synology to run a broader range of services, including native Plex Media Server installation and enhanced indexing performance for large photo or document libraries. Paired with 4GB of DDR4 memory, the system is built to handle simultaneous user access and background tasks like backups and media processing without performance degradation—something the original model struggled with due to its lower RAM and ARM-based chip.

The BeeStation Plus ships with a pre-installed 8TB Synology HAT3310 hard drive, a 7200 RPM SATA HDD from Synology’s own verified drive lineup. While the device only supports a single internal bay, the included drive offers ample performance for most home and SOHO workloads, and the use of a higher-RPM disk ensures better responsiveness for large file transfers and indexing tasks. The storage is non-removable by design, as BeeStation products prioritize simplicity and stability over modularity. This also means there is no RAID support—underscoring that this device is not built for redundancy, but rather for centralized storage with optional external or cloud-based backup using BeeProtect or a secondary Synology NAS.

Connectivity is modest but practical. The system includes one 1GbE RJ-45 Ethernet port for network access and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (one Type-A and one Type-C) for expanding storage or performing external backups. External drives can be browsed directly via BeeFiles or automatically backed up using the system’s USB Backup function. While some users may lament the lack of 2.5GbE or additional LAN ports, it’s worth noting that the target audience likely won’t saturate even gigabit speeds in everyday use. In real-world tests, BeeStation Plus can hit 150–180MB/s read speeds from its internal drive—enough to support simultaneous multimedia streaming and active file transfers across the network. The compact chassis also includes a cooling fan, a new addition over the passive original BeeStation, helping ensure thermal stability during extended workloads like Plex streaming or bulk photo indexing.

Synology Beestation Plus 8TB – BSM Software and Services

The BeeStation Plus is tightly integrated with Synology’s Bee-branded suite of applications, which form the foundation of its user experience. Chief among them is BeePhotos, a powerful photo management tool that automatically backs up images from mobile devices and organizes them using on-device AI for face, subject, and location recognition. Unlike cloud photo services, all indexing occurs locally, ensuring that sensitive images never leave the device. BeePhotos now supports iCloud Photo Backup, enabling direct migration of Apple photo libraries without requiring intermediate steps via your phone or computer. The web interface replicates the timeline-based design familiar to users of Google Photos or iCloud, complete with album views, smart filters, and Chromecast streaming. Meanwhile, BeeFiles acts as the central file manager, supporting version history, password-protected sharing, USB device browsing, and desktop sync via the BeeStation desktop client for Windows and macOS.

Beyond personal use, Synology has also included multi-user support for up to eight invited users, each with isolated private storage spaces and individual access rights. Users can connect to BeeStation from anywhere via the Synology cloud portal or mobile apps, allowing seamless collaboration and remote file access. BeeStation Plus also introduces native support for Plex Media Server, offering hardware-accelerated streaming of 4K content to TVs, tablets, or mobile devices. Integration is simplified through the BeeStation web portal, and libraries can be organized via BeeFiles’ dedicated “Plex Media Library” folder structure. Users can also take advantage of BeeProtect, a low-cost, unlimited-capacity cloud backup service that stores a full copy of the BeeStation’s data offsite—ideal for disaster recovery. Internal snapshot-based restore points add another layer of protection, allowing users to roll back the system in the event of accidental deletions or ransomware events, without relying on third-party services.

Synology Beestation Plus vs Synology DS224+/DS225+ and Beestation

The BeeStation Plus represents a clear technical upgrade over the original BeeStation, featuring a move from an ARM-based Realtek RTD1619B processor to a quad-core Intel Celeron J4125, along with a jump from 1GB to 4GB of DDR4 RAM. It also swaps the 5400 RPM 4TB HAT3300 drive for a faster 7200 RPM 8TB HAT3310, doubling the storage and improving responsiveness for tasks like AI photo indexing and multimedia playback. The inclusion of an active cooling fan further reinforces its suitability for continuous workloads, while added support for Plex Media Server and iCloud Photo Backup expands its capabilities far beyond the entry-level functionality of its predecessor. Both units share the same compact 1-bay form factor and cloud-integrated setup process, but the Plus model is built for heavier use, particularly in multi-user homes or for users archiving large libraries of photos and videos.

Synology Beestation Plus 8TB – Pricing and Release

The Synology BeeStation Plus (BST170-8T) launched globally in May 2025 with a suggested retail price of $369.95 USD (excluding VAT), positioning it as a compelling middle-ground between basic cloud drives and full NAS systems. This price includes the pre-installed 8TB Synology HAT3310 hard drive, three months of complimentary BeeProtect cloud backup, and full access to the BeeFiles and BeePhotos applications out of the box. While significantly more expensive than the original BeeStation’s $199.95 launch price, the BeeStation Plus delivers a considerable leap in performance, storage, and application support. Synology is clearly aiming to attract users looking to escape rising cloud subscription fees, with the device’s total cost of ownership undercutting comparable iCloud or Google One plans over just a few years. With increasing emphasis on private cloud solutions that are easy to deploy, the BeeStation Plus marks Synology’s most consumer-friendly push yet into the mainstream storage market.

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Depuis plusieurs mois, le marché des NAS connaît un regain d’effervescence. Longtemps dominé par une poignée d’acteurs, ce segment attire désormais des entreprises issues de secteurs connexes, bien décidées à se faire une place. Qu’est-ce qui motive cet intérêt soudain ? Quels enjeux pour les acteurs établis comme Synology ou QNAP ? Décryptage…

Un nouvel appétit pour un marché de niche

Ce que l’on observe actuellement n’est pas l’émergence de start-up, mais plutôt l’arrivée de groupes déjà bien installés sur d’autres segments technologiques. Citons notamment UGREEN, réputé pour ses accessoires, ou encore des spécialistes du Mini-PC comme Minisforum, Beelink, ORICO ou Aoostar. Tous ont récemment investi le marché des NAS avec une stratégie affirmée : concurrencer les leaders traditionnels en s’appuyant sur leurs capacités industrielles existantes.

Un marché restreint, mais en croissance

Le NAS reste un produit de niche, à destination d’un public averti, professionnel ou technophile. Toutefois, il continue d’afficher une croissance régulière (souvent à 2 chiffres). Dans un contexte de diversification nécessaire pour les industriels chinois, ce segment représente un relais de croissance crédible, d’autant plus attractif qu’il ne requiert pas de rupture technologique majeure.

Un contexte favorable à l’entrée de nouveaux acteurs

Historiquement, la conception de NAS impliquait des investissements significatifs (matériel et logiciel). Aujourd’hui, la donne a changé. Des systèmes comme OpenMediaVault, TrueNAS, Unraid ou encore ZimaOS permettent aux utilisateurs de déployer eux-mêmes une infrastructure de stockage avancée, sans expertise pointue.

Par ailleurs, l’essor de Docker facilite la gestion et l’installation d’applications sur les NAS, réduisant encore la nécessité pour les fabricants de développer des interfaces logicielles propriétaires. Une économie de ressources considérable pour les nouveaux entrants.

Résultat : les barrières à l’entrée se sont considérablement abaissées, rendant ce marché bien plus accessible qu’il ne l’était il y a encore quelques années.

Des positions historiques sous pression

Les marques traditionnelles comme Synology, QNAP et Asustor ont longtemps prospéré grâce à la robustesse de leur matériel, à leur écosystème logiciel intégré et à un service après-vente éprouvé. Mais l’arrivée d’acteurs disposant de capacités industrielles comparables (voire supérieures) rebat les cartes.

Une bataille tarifaire en perspective

L’écart de prix entre les 2 marques est notable : les NAS  UGREEN sont proposés à des tarifs sensiblement inférieurs à ceux de Synology, pour un nombre de baies équivalent et des composants souvent plus récents. Un positionnement agressif qui n’implique pas nécessairement de compromis sur les performances, lesquelles se révèlent parfois supérieures.

Des consommateurs mieux informés

Autre évolution majeure : les utilisateurs, qu’ils soient professionnels ou particuliers, sont aujourd’hui plus avertis. Ils scrutent les composants, exigent une évolutivité tangible et comparent systématiquement les rapports qualité/prix. Les nouveaux venus pourraient tirer parti de cette exigence accrue, à condition de répondre aux standards attendus.

Vers une transformation du marché ?

Si le cycle de renouvellement des NAS reste relativement lent, les précédents ne manquent pas pour illustrer la rapidité avec laquelle un marché peut se transformer. L’exemple des robots aspirateurs est éclairant : iRobot (Roomba), autrefois leader incontesté, a été rapidement dépassé par des challengers asiatiques comme Roborock, Dreame ou Mova. Le NAS pourrait-il suivre une trajectoire similaire ?

La question reste ouverte. Mais elle mérite d’être posée, tant les conditions semblent réunies pour une recomposition accélérée du secteur.

En synthèse

Le marché du NAS est à l’aube d’une profonde recomposition. Sous l’effet combiné d’une pression concurrentielle accrue, de l’évolution des attentes utilisateurs et de la baisse des barrières technologiques, les lignes sont en train de bouger. Si les leaders historiques disposent encore de solides atouts, ils ne peuvent ignorer la montée en puissance de nouveaux acteurs agiles, bien décidés à redistribuer les cartes.

Cet article a été réalisé en collaboration avec Synology

En matière de protection des données, créer une sauvegarde et la mettre à jour régulièrement constitue un excellent moyen d’éviter la plupart des accidents. Du moins, pour les particuliers ou les petites structures. Car lorsque le volume de données, ou le nombre d’utilisateurs est élevé, un simple backup n’est plus suffisant.

Cet article a été réalisé en collaboration avec Synology

Il s’agit d’un contenu créé par des rédacteurs indépendants au sein de l’entité Humanoid xp. L’équipe éditoriale de Numerama n’a pas participé à sa création. Nous nous engageons auprès de nos lecteurs pour que ces contenus soient intéressants, qualitatifs et correspondent à leurs intérêts.

En savoir plus

Synology a officiellement annoncé son nouveau NAS : DS1825+. Même s’il n’est pas encore disponible à la vente, ses spécifications techniques sont connues. Vous avez été nombreux à nous demander ce que ce nouveau modèle apporte face à son prédécesseur, le DS1821+. Voici donc une analyse comparative pour vous aider à faire un choix…

DS1825+ vs DS1821+

Les DS1825+ et DS1821+ occupent le segment particulier chez Synology. Tous les 2 proposent 8 baies en façade pour les disques durs ou SSD, ainsi que de 2 emplacements SSD NVMe accessible sous le châssis.

Ils prennent également en charge jusqu’à 2 unités d’extension de 5 baies, permettant d’atteindre un total de 18 disques. À noter : le DS1825+ est compatible avec la nouvelle unité d’extension DX525, connectée en USB-C, tandis que le DS1821+ repose sur des extensions en eSATA (DX517).

Processeur et RAM

Le Synology DS1825+ embarque un processeur AMD Ryzen V1500B (quad-core à 2,2 GHz). C’est exactement le même que son prédécesseur, le DS1821+. La bonne nouvelle, c’est que la RAM a été doublée ici, le DS1825+ possède 8 Go DDR4 ECC de base (extensible jusqu’à 32).

Connectique

Le DS1825+ gagne 2 ports USB Type-C et 2 ports réseau 2,5 Gb/s. C’est vraiment la grande nouveauté de la gamme DSx25+.
Comme avec le DS1821+, le DS1825+ conserve l’emplacement son emplacement PCIe permettant de recevoir une carte réseau (1* 10 Gb/s, 2* 10 Gb/s ou encore 2* 25 Gb/s).

Le DS1825+ se distingue principalement par sa connectique modernisée :

• 2 ports USB-C font leur apparition (contre aucun sur le DS1821+)
• 2 ports réseau 2,5 Gb/s remplacent les 4 ports 1 Gb/s de l’ancien modèle

Attention, les ports USB-C ne sont utilisables qu’avec des unités d’expansion Synology. En effet, clé et SSD externe ne fonctionnent pas sur ces ports. L’emplacement PCIe est toujours présent, permettant d’ajouter une carte réseau 10 Gb/s ou même 25 Gb/s.

Toutefois, on note la suppression de 2 ports USB 3.0 et des ports eSATA, ce qui pourrait poser problème à certains professionnels ou utilisateurs avancés.

Politique de compatibilité plus stricte

Synology poursuit sa stratégie controversée : comme pour les autres modèles de la série DSx25+, l’utilisation de disques certifiés est désormais obligatoire. À ce jour, seuls les disques Synology sont officiellement compatibles. Une contrainte qui risque d’en rebuter plus d’un.

Tableau comparatif DS1825+ vs DS1821+

Faut-il passer au DS1825+ ?

Le DS1825+ remplace formellement le DS1821+, mais en y regardant de plus près, les améliorations sont très limitées. On perd des ports (USB 3.0, eSATA), on gagne du USB-C et un réseau légèrement plus rapide en 2,5 Gb/s… mais cela ne conviendra pas à tous les usages, notamment en environnement professionnel où le 10 GbE natif devient souvent indispensable.

La mémoire de base est doublée, mais 8 Go restent insuffisants pour de nombreux cas d’usage avancés (virtualisation, conteneurs, etc.).
Enfin, la restriction sur les disques non certifiés pourrait être un vrai frein pour les utilisateurs soucieux de leur liberté de choix ou de leur budget.

En synthèse

Le DS1825+ n’apporte pas de véritable révolution. Il constitue une évolution mineure. Si vous possédez déjà un DS1821+, il n’y a aucune urgence à migrer. En revanche, si vous partez de zéro, le choix dépendra surtout de votre besoin en connectique, de votre tolérance à la politique de disques imposée… et bien sûr du prix final, encore inconnu.

Synology (FINALLY) has an NVMe Flash Server – The Synology PAS7700 System

Synology are seemingly going ‘all guns blazing’ at Computex 2025 this year, with a wide array of hardware and software solutions being revealed at the event. Many of these we already know about via official and unofficial reveals over the last 6 months or so, how the PAS NVMe flash storage system is one that was actually originally shown last year at the brand’s 2024 Solution Exhibition in Taipei, this was still an early prototype system and was built using an existing 2U chassis and was much more comparable to existing SAS storage systems from the brand. However, the PAS NVMe Flash system has seemingly (and RAPIDLY) evolved since it was first revealed as an early 12 bay prototype 2U rackmount last year into a dual active 4U Behemoth solution that is significantly more focused on leveraging the performance benefits of NVMe, alongside the scale-out, redundancy and failover of other enterprise tier Synology NAS solutions.

Synology already has an existing range of SSD Flash soltuons, in their Flashstation series, but this proposed PAS7700 system is a completely different class of system against those more classic DSM hardware systems. Synology has been somewhat behind the curve when it comes to NVMe flash systems in the last few years (both entry class m.2 NVMe systems at desktop, but also larger business and enterprise class NVMe over U.2/U.3 compared with competitors such as QNAP (and their FX/FU series), but the PAS is hoping to fill this gap in the brand’s portfolio at this higher tier of buyer. So, what do we know so far?

Synology PAS7700 Hardware Specifications

The Synology PAS7700 is a 4U rackmount dual-node NVMe flash storage system engineered for high-performance, mission-critical enterprise workloads. Designed with a non-disruptive architecture, it enables active-active operations across both nodes, ensuring continuous data availability and efficient load distribution without single points of failure. Each node occupies 2U of rack space and operates independently, yet cooperatively, allowing both to concurrently handle client requests and internal processes. This design eliminates the need for manual failover while maintaining performance even during node maintenance or partial outages.

At the heart of each node lies a 24-core AMD EPYC processor, optimized for dense, multi-threaded workloads such as data analytics, database transactions, and large-scale virtualization. These processors provide ample PCIe Gen4 lanes to support high-speed interconnects, storage interfaces, and compute operations. Each node is equipped with 64GB of DDR4 ECC memory out of the box, with upgrade support up to 1TB. This high memory ceiling is particularly beneficial for large-scale caching, deduplication, and inline compression tasks in high IOPS environments. Memory cache protection mechanisms are built in to preserve data integrity during unexpected power loss, using supercapacitors or battery-backed modules.

The storage backplane supports a total of 48 U.2 or U.3 NVMe SSDs across the chassis—24 per node—maximizing both performance and density. Drive control is split between the native AMD EPYC-integrated PCIe controllers and additional PCIe switching and management provided by ASMedia Technologies, likely to balance performance across multiple backplanes and mitigate PCIe bottlenecks. This configuration ensures that each SSD can be utilized to its full potential with minimal latency and optimal throughput. Network connectivity includes a dedicated 1GbE copper port per node for management, along with dual 10GbE NICs for data operations. These ports support link aggregation and failover, with options for expansion to higher-speed interfaces expected, though not yet confirmed. The PAS7700 likely supports several PCIe expansion slots internally, allowing future upgrade paths to 25/40/100GbE if required. This flexibility positions the unit for use in diverse network topologies and high-bandwidth enterprise infrastructures.

That said, we should discuss the thorny subject of storage media. Synology has recently implemented a more stringent hardware compatibility policy, mandating the use of Synology-branded or certified storage media in its latest 2025 Plus Series NAS devices. This policy restricts full functionality and support to only those drives that have been validated by Synology, potentially limiting user flexibility and increasing costs due to reduced third-party options. Currently, Synology’s in-house SSD lineup includes SATA SSDs and M.2 NVMe SSDs, with capacities up to 800GB. This raises questions about their plans for higher-performance storage media suitable for systems like the PAS7700, which is designed for demanding enterprise workloads. As of now, Synology has not announced any U.2 or U.3 NVMe SSDs in their product range. Given the PAS7700’s reliance on high-speed NVMe storage, it’s unclear whether Synology will expand its SSD offerings to include higher-capacity and performance options or if they will certify third-party drives for use with this system. The company’s updated compatibility lists will be crucial for users to identify approved drives. Until more information is available, potential PAS7700 users may need to consider the implications of Synology’s hardware compatibility policies on their storage choices.

Synology PAS7700 Services and Flash Protocols

The Synology PAS7700 supports a diverse array of storage access protocols optimized for NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF), ensuring compatibility with modern data center architectures and latency-sensitive applications. These protocols are tailored to support high-throughput and low-latency workloads across both local and remote environments, catering to sectors such as virtualized infrastructure, high-performance computing, and real-time analytics.

Among the supported technologies are NFS RDMA, NVMe-TCP, NVMe over Fibre Channel (NVMe-FC), and NVMe over RoCE (Remote Direct Memory Access over Converged Ethernet). These protocols differ in terms of performance characteristics, implementation complexity, and deployment environments, giving administrators flexibility in aligning the system’s networking stack with existing infrastructure and performance objectives. These include:

• NFS RDMA (Remote Direct Memory Access):

  • Enhances traditional NFS performance by bypassing the CPU for memory transfers.

  • Significantly reduces latency and CPU usage in environments using NFSv4.x.

  • Ideal for high-performance, low-latency use cases like virtual machines or scientific computing.

• NVMe-TCP (NVMe over TCP/IP):

  • Extends NVMe-oF across standard Ethernet networks without requiring specialized hardware.

  • Enables NVMe-level performance benefits using existing TCP infrastructure.

  • Easier to deploy in enterprise environments with mixed networking equipment.

• NVMe-FC (NVMe over Fibre Channel):

  • Combines the speed of NVMe with the reliability of Fibre Channel.

  • Suitable for enterprises already using Fibre Channel SANs.

  • Offers low-latency performance with high stability and established zoning capabilities.

• NVMe/RoCE (RDMA over Converged Ethernet):

  • Provides near-direct memory access over Ethernet without involving the CPU.

  • Achieves ultra-low latency for applications such as real-time trading or video rendering.

  • Requires a compatible network fabric with lossless Ethernet configuration.

We are still awaiting confirmation on whether this will be running on traditional DSM, a dual controller variation (such as found on the current UC3200 0 Active/Active system), a multinode management variation (as found in the GS/GridStation system, or a brand new splinter of DSM services (as found in the DP series with Active Protect).

Synology PAS7700 Failover and Redundancy

The Synology PAS7700 is designed with full-stack redundancy to eliminate single points of failure and minimize service disruption across hardware, software, and protocol layers. Its dual-node active-active design enables uninterrupted operations even during firmware updates, system maintenance, or unplanned hardware failures. This architecture ensures that both nodes can operate independently while maintaining synchronized data access and state, effectively enabling non-disruptive service continuity in multi-user enterprise environments. Each layer of the system—from networking to storage to memory—is fortified with specific failover mechanisms. Networking is protected via IP failover configurations, allowing services to automatically reroute through a secondary interface or node should a primary link fail. The system also supports Multipath I/O (MPIO) across iSCSI, Fibre Channel, and NVMe-oF protocols, ensuring high availability and load balancing across multiple paths. On the protocol level, persistent handle support in SMB and grace periods in NFS ensure that client sessions remain intact during failovers or server transitions.

Synology further implements failover at the component and data protection level. Memory modules are equipped with cache protection to safeguard in-flight data in the event of power loss, typically via battery backup or capacitor-based retention systems. On the storage layer, support for RAID-TP (triple parity) adds an extra layer of disk fault tolerance, protecting against up to three simultaneous drive failures. Additionally, enterprise-grade SSDs used in the PAS7700 are expected to include power loss protection (PLP), preserving cached writes during sudden shutdowns.

• Protocols:

  • SMB Persistent Handles: Maintains client file handles during failover events.

  • NFS Grace Periods: Allows NFS clients to re-establish sessions without data loss.

  • MPIO: Multipath I/O for load balancing and failover across multiple transport paths.

• Networking:

  • IP Failover: Automatically reroutes network services to a standby node or NIC if a primary fails.

• System-Level:

  • Hardware Failover: One node takes over if the other becomes non-functional.

  • Upgrade Failover: Supports live system or firmware updates without downtime.

• Memory:

  • Cache Protection: Retains volatile memory contents in the event of power loss using supercaps or batteries.

• Storage:

  • RAID-TP: Triple parity RAID support for enhanced data redundancy.

  • Power Loss Protection (PLP): SSDs preserve unwritten data during power failure.

Whether other specific SSD/Flash services that are currently available on devices like the Flashstation series (such as RAID F1 for controlled and predicted NAND wearing) will also be integrated here on scale are yet to be confirmed. While the full software environment and feature set of the Synology PAS7700 are yet to be confirmed, its hardware architecture and protocol support position it as a serious entry into the enterprise flash storage segment. With dual-node active-active operation, extensive NVMe protocol compatibility, and comprehensive failover mechanisms, the PAS7700 is clearly designed for organizations that require uncompromising uptime and performance. As more details emerge at Computex 2025, the PAS7700 is expected to clarify its role within Synology’s broader storage portfolio—particularly how it compares to the UC series and where it fits in demanding environments such as virtualized infrastructure, high-frequency transactional workloads, and critical business continuity deployments.

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Want to follow specific category? Also Read...Synology PS Series Managed 10GSynology Managed 10GbE PoE NetPromise Pegasus5 M8 NVMe ThundSynology at Computex 2025 - ALSynology at Computex 2025 - ALSynology DS725+ NAS RevealedThe Synology DS425+ NAS RevealThe Synology RS2825RP+ RackstaPromise Pegasus5 M8 NVMe ThundXikeStor FS5104DH & FS510402DH Subscribe You can also follow specific search terms:

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

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The Synology DS925+ versus Synology DS923+ – Buy OLD or BUY New?

Every few years, when Synology chooses to refresh several of its popular devices—updating a number of its hardware features—new buyers and those looking to upgrade have a choice to make. Is it nobler in the mind to purchase the more affordable and already well-known older-generation device, or hold out and purchase the brand-new, refreshed, updated model with its improved hardware but likely slightly increased price tag? Refreshes are planned for 2025. Today, I want to discuss whether users should consider purchasing the DS923+—which has been in the market for several years now—or set their sights on the newer DS925+ NAS. On the face of it, many will consider this an easy choice, as newer hardware likely means a better system. However, the reality is much more nuanced. Alongside older-generation hardware having had a greater deal of time to be developed within its own ecosystem and by third-party developers, there is also the question of whether newer-generation hardware really is genuinely a hardware upgrade. Or do you have the potential to miss out on certain hardware features in the new generation that may have become legacy options (remember the DS920+?). Which one deserves your money and your data?

Synology DS925+ NAS		Synology DS923+ NAS
Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Check B&H for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS923+ NAS	Check B&H for the Synology DS923+ NAS

Synology DS925+ vs DS923+ – Hardware Specifications

When comparing Synology’s DS925+ and DS923+, it’s easy to assume the newer model automatically holds the advantage. However, a closer inspection of their hardware specifications reveals a more nuanced story where hardware changes in the 2025 Series are…mixed (that sounds fair, right?). While both systems cater to prosumers and small business users with high expectations for performance and reliability, they differ in several key areas—from CPU architecture and networking capabilities to expansion options and noise levels. Below, we break down the detailed hardware specifications of both NAS units side-by-side, highlighting where one system clearly outshines the other and where parity exists.

Category	DS925+	DS923+	Advantage / Notes
CPU Model	AMD Ryzen V1500B	AMD Ryzen R1600	–
CPU Cores / Threads	4 Cores / 8 Threads	2 Cores / 4 Threads	DS925+ offers more cores and threads
CPU Frequency	2.2 GHz	2.6 GHz (base) / 3.1 GHz (turbo)	DS923+ has higher clock speeds
Architecture	64-bit	64-bit	–
Hardware Encryption Engine	Yes	Yes	–
Memory (Pre-installed)	4 GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM (1x 4 GB)	4 GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM (1x 4 GB)	–
Total Memory Slots	2	2	–
Max Memory Capacity	32 GB (2x 16 GB)	32 GB (2x 16 GB)	–
Drive Bays	4	4	–
Max Drive Bays (with Expansion)	9 (DX525 x1)	9 (DX517 x1)	–
M.2 Drive Slots	2 (NVMe)	2 (NVMe)	–
Supported Drive Types	3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA SSD, M.2 2280 NVMe SSD	3.5″ SATA HDD, 2.5″ SATA SSD, M.2 2280 NVMe SSD	–
Hot Swappable Drives	Yes (SATA only)	Yes (SATA only)	–
LAN Ports	2 x 2.5GbE RJ-45	2 x 1GbE RJ-45	DS925+ offers faster network ports
USB Ports	2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1	2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1	–
Expansion Port Type	USB Type-C	eSATA	DS925+ has a modern expansion port
PCIe Slot	None	1 x PCIe Gen3 x2 (network expansion)	DS923+ allows NIC upgrades
Dimensions (HxWxD)	166 x 199 x 223 mm	166 x 199 x 223 mm	–
Weight	2.26 kg	2.24 kg	DS923+ is slightly lighter
System Fans	2 x 92mm	2 x 92mm	–
Fan Modes	Full-Speed, Cool, Quiet	Full-Speed, Cool, Quiet	–
LED Brightness Control	Yes	Yes	–
Power Recovery	Yes	Yes	–
Noise Level (Idle)	20.5 dB(A)	22.9 dB(A)	DS925+ is quieter
Power Supply	100W Adapter	100W Adapter	–
Power Consumption (Access / Hibernation)	37.91 W / 12.33 W	35.51 W / 11.52 W	DS923+ is slightly more power efficient
BTU (Access / Hibernation)	129.27 / 42.05	121.09 / 39.28	DS923+ generates less heat
Operating Temp	0°C to 40°C	0°C to 40°C	–
Storage Temp	-20°C to 60°C	-20°C to 60°C	–
Humidity	5% to 95% RH	5% to 95% RH	–
Warranty	3 years (extendable to 5 years)	3 years (extendable to 5 years)	–

The hardware comparison between the Synology DS925+ and DS923+ highlights that, while these two NAS models share a common design and similar baseline features, they also differ in ways that could significantly impact real-world use. Both offer 4 drive bays, dual M.2 NVMe slots, dual memory slots supporting up to 32 GB ECC DDR4 RAM, and nearly identical physical dimensions and cooling configurations. However, their distinct hardware differences become apparent when you look beyond these fundamentals. The DS925+ provides users with faster 2.5GbE LAN ports by default—doubling the network throughput capability compared to the DS923+’s 1GbE ports. This makes the DS925+ better suited to environments where higher network bandwidth is required, such as multi-user file sharing, large media transfers, or remote backups. Additionally, it features a more modern USB Type-C expansion interface and operates at a lower idle noise level, which may be important for those placing the NAS in noise-sensitive spaces like home offices or studios.

Meanwhile, the DS923+ offers a unique advantage in expandability, thanks to its PCIe Gen3 x2 slot, which allows for add-on network cards—something the DS925+ lacks. This modularity can be a decisive factor for users who want the flexibility to upgrade to 10GbE networking or other accessories in the future. The DS923+ also comes in slightly lighter and marginally more power-efficient under typical access and hibernation loads, which may appeal to users seeking a balance between performance and energy use. In the end, both models are capable and versatile NAS units, but their hardware differences point them toward different user priorities. The DS925+ favors users looking for built-in speed, quieter operation, and simplicity. In contrast, the DS923+ caters more to those who value customization, long-term expandability, and subtle improvements in efficiency. Matching these characteristics with your specific deployment goals will help determine which model is the better fit.

DS925+ wins in: CPU core/thread count Network port speed (2.5GbE) Expansion port type (USB-C) Lower noise output

DS923+ stands out for: Higher CPU frequency PCIe expansion slot for upgrades Slightly lower power and heat output

---

AMD R1600 vs V1500B – CPU Specifications (Synology DS923+ vs DS925+)

When we examine the CPU specifications in isolation, it’s clear that the V1500B in the DS925+ delivers greater multi-core throughput, while the R1600 in the DS923+ offers higher single-core clock speeds. But understanding how these numbers affect real-world tasks within Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) is far more meaningful. Thanks to its 4-core, 8-thread configuration, the DS925+ excels in multi-threaded workloads, which is evident in its higher software limits. It supports up to 8 virtual machines and 8 virtual DSM instances through Virtual Machine Manager, making it ideal for users running containerized services, development environments, or isolated OS instances. Additionally, it handles more concurrent SMB connections (up to 40 with RAM expansion), supports up to 150 Synology Chat users, 80 Synology Drive users, and 80 Synology Office users—all reflecting its capacity to manage a larger user base and more simultaneous services without bottlenecks.

For surveillance and media workloads, the DS925+ also pulls ahead, matching the DS923+ in the number of supported camera channels (up to 40 cameras and 1200 FPS at 1080p H.265), but benefiting from more headroom when additional tasks are running in parallel—such as snapshots, backups, or AI-powered photo indexing via Synology Photos. Meanwhile, the DS923+, with its faster per-core performance and support for PCIe expansion, remains well-suited to users running lighter, more focused workloads or who plan to scale via hardware add-ons, such as a 10GbE network card. It still supports a respectable 4 VMs, 60 MailPlus users, and 50 users each for Synology Drive and Office, making it perfectly adequate for small teams or power users who prioritize customization and future expansion. While both CPUs are capable, the DS925+ delivers superior multi-user, multi-tasking performance, aligning closely with higher software thresholds and offering better out-of-the-box readiness for more demanding and concurrent applications across Synology’s DSM suite.

• R1600 (DS923+) excels in single-core performance (better for fast app responsiveness and lighter workloads).

• V1500B (DS925+) dominates in multi-core performance (better for multitasking, virtualization, and heavier parallel tasks).

• The V1500B also has more PCIe lanes (16 vs 8), which may benefit systems with more storage or networking needs.

Synology DS925+ vs DS923+ – Software Specifications

Beyond hardware, the real power of a NAS lies in what it enables users to do—and that’s where software specifications take center stage. Synology’s DSM (DiskStation Manager) operating system unlocks a vast suite of applications and services, from virtualization and backup to media streaming, file sharing, and surveillance. However, the scope and scale of these capabilities are directly influenced by the underlying system hardware and memory architecture. Let’s compare the software capabilities of the Synology DS925+ and DS923+, not just in terms of what each system can technically support, but how far each can be pushed in real-world use. We examine backup limits, virtual machine support, hybrid cloud services, user and group management, surveillance channel support, and more—offering a complete picture of each system’s software potential under DSM 7.2.

While both the Synology DS925+ and DS923+ run the same robust DSM software and offer access to the full Synology ecosystem, their software ceilings differ significantly—reflecting the difference in overall system capability. The DS925+ consistently supports higher concurrent workloads across nearly every category. It enables up to 8 virtual machines, compared to just 4 on the DS923+, and supports double the Virtual DSM instances. It also allows for more Synology Chat users (150 vs 100), more Synology Office and Drive users (80 vs 50), and handles twice the VPN connections (8 vs 4). For collaborative environments, this means smoother performance when multiple users are accessing files, editing documents, or messaging in real time. It’s also more equipped for enterprise use with double the number of Shared Folder Sync tasks and higher MailPlus user capacity (90 vs 60 users), making it ideal for larger teams or more demanding deployment scenarios.

Meanwhile, the DS923+ still provides an impressive software suite, especially considering its smaller hardware footprint. It supports all major DSM features—Snapshot Replication, Hyper Backup, High Availability, Surveillance Station, and more—making it a solid choice for small businesses or power users who may not need the extended capacity but still want rich functionality. Its support for 10GbE upgrades via PCIe also allows for flexible scaling, even if its base configuration starts at a lower software threshold. The DS925+ is better suited for multi-user environments, heavier workloads, and broader deployment, while the DS923+ is ideal for lighter workflows, cost-sensitive setups, or users planning to grow into the system gradually. Understanding these software limitations and allowances is key to choosing the right NAS for your workload, user count, and future planning.

• The DS925+ outperforms the DS923+ in:

  • Max volume size (up to 200 TB with RAM upgrade)

  • SMB connections

  • Shared folder sync tasks

  • Synology Chat users

  • MailPlus users

  • Synology Drive & Office users

  • Virtual machines and VPN connections

• The DS923+ has an edge only in volume count, supporting 64 internal volumes vs 32.

Synology DS925+ vs DS923+ NAS – Hard Drive and SSD Compatibility

As of this writing, Synology is taking a more restrictive stance on third-party drive support, especially with the introduction of its 2025 hardware series—including the DS925+. Since launching its own branded SSDs and HDDs in 2020–2021, Synology has steadily reduced the number of third-party drives listed as compatible with DSM. This trend escalated with DSM 7.1 in 2022, which introduced warning states for systems using unverified drives.

Although the impact of these warnings was later reduced, Synology has continued moving toward a locked-down storage ecosystem. The DS925+ marks a significant escalation. At launch, it only lists Synology-branded drives as compatible, and more critically, the system will not allow DSM initialization at all if unsupported drives are detected. This is a sharp departure from earlier practices where unverified drives merely triggered warnings post-setup. Despite sharing identical internal hardware with earlier NAS models from 2020 and 2023—which still support a wide range of drives from Seagate, WD, Toshiba, Samsung, and others—the DS925+ now enforces this compatibility policy at the firmware level.

In contrast, the DS923+ remains more flexible. While it will flag third-party drives as “unverified,” it still allows users to fully initialize the system, create storage pools, and access all DSM storage services without restriction. This flexibility makes the DS923+ a more appealing option for users who already own or prefer third-party HDDs and SSDs, particularly in regions where Synology’s own media is either overpriced or hard to source. Compounding the issue is the lack of clarity around Synology’s rollout. The policy was first disclosed on Synology’s German site and remains vaguely worded on the official DS925+ product page. There’s still no definitive answer on whether compatibility will expand to include major third-party brands—raising concern for system integrators, resellers, and first-time buyers.

If Synology’s goal is to ensure higher reliability through tighter integration, it should match that with transparent testing data, global pricing consistency, and readily available stock. In many regions, Synology drives are neither as accessible nor as competitively priced as third-party equivalents, which makes this policy feel restrictive rather than protective. While existing users can still migrate third-party drives from an older NAS into a DS925+, this is of little comfort to new buyers building from scratch. And the inconsistency with the DS923+—which continues to operate under the older, more open approach—only adds to user confusion. Synology appears to be transitioning toward a closed appliance model, where software, hardware, and media are tightly controlled. Whether this delivers long-term benefits or alienates a portion of its user base remains to be seen. For now, the DS925+ presents both a warning and a decision point for those evaluating their next NAS—especially if they rely on third-party drives.

Synology DS925+ vs DS923+ NAS – Which Should You Buy?

The DS923+ is a NAS system that, when first launched by Synology at the end of 2022, was met with mixed reactions. This was largely due to Synology shifting the system’s focus away from multimedia and GPU-accelerated tasks, and instead toward file processing and business-oriented deployments. Fast forward a few years, and the rest of Synology’s portfolio has realigned—bringing back more home and multimedia models—making this more utilitarian, file-centric 4-bay system easier for users to appreciate in context. That said, the DS925+ is the better choice in almost every way. It features a processor originally designed for higher-tier business-class systems, offering more cores, more threads, and greater performance potential across productivity tasks and multi-user workloads. Synology has also finally introduced 2.5GbE on this system—an overdue improvement that significantly enhances out-of-the-box network speeds compared to the 1GbE-only DS923+. As long as the DS925+ is priced within a reasonable 5% margin of the DS923+’s original launch price, it stands as the more capable system by default. However, it does come with a notable caveat: the lack of a 10GbE upgrade option. Unlike the DS923+, which includes a PCIe Gen3 x2 slot allowing for a future 10GbE NIC upgrade, the DS925+ is capped at its built-in 2.5GbE ports. While this still provides a theoretical 6Gbps of total bandwidth across both ports via link aggregation, it means there’s no room for expansion beyond that ceiling. This limitation becomes particularly relevant for users planning to fully populate the NAS with high-performance SATA SSDs or utilize M.2 SSD storage pools. In these cases, the network will eventually become a bottleneck—one that the DS923+ can avoid through its 10GbE upgrade path. Additionally, the DS923+ supports a wider range of third-party HDDs and SSDs, allowing greater flexibility and cost control, especially in regions where Synology-branded drives are less available or more expensive. The DS923+ will still let you initialize, create storage pools, and run DSM services using unverified third-party drives, unlike the DS925+, which now enforces stricter media validation at the OS level.

Reasons to Buy the Synology DS923+

Reasons to Buy the Synology DS925+

Faster 2.5GbE Networking Out-of-the-Box – Dual 2.5GbE ports offer higher baseline network speeds (up to 6Gbps aggregated), doubling the network performance compared to the DS923+ without requiring expansion cards. More Powerful Processor (More Cores/Threads) – The V1500B CPU offers 4 cores and 8 threads, delivering superior multitasking and heavier workload handling, especially for virtual machines, multiple users, and simultaneous services. Quieter Operation – The DS925+ operates at a lower idle noise level (20.5 dB vs 22.9 dB), making it better suited for office, home office, or studio environments where sound matters. Higher User and Service Limits – Thanks to the more powerful CPU, the DS925+ supports more Synology Drive users, Synology Office users, Synology Chat users, more concurrent SMB connections, and more virtual machines than the DS923+. Better Out-of-the-Box Experience – With stronger networking, higher multi-threaded performance, and no need for immediate upgrades, the DS925+ is ready to deliver higher performance without any additional investment, perfect for users who want maximum capability from day one.

PCIe Expansion for 10GbE Upgrades – The DS923+ features a PCIe Gen3 x2 slot, allowing users to install a 10GbE network card later, massively boosting network speeds beyond the built-in 1GbE ports. Broader 3rd-Party Drive Compatibility – Unlike the DS925+, the DS923+ allows full system initialization, storage pool creation, and DSM services even with non-Synology hard drives and SSDs—giving users more flexibility and choice. Lower Power Consumption and Heat Output – The DS923+ is slightly more energy-efficient in both active use and hibernation modes, making it a better fit for always-on environments where power savings add up over time. Potentially Lower Price (Especially Post-DS925+ Launch) – As the newer DS925+ replaces it, the DS923+ is likely to see discounts and wider availability, offering excellent value for budget-conscious users without sacrificing capability. Ideal for Customization and Long-Term Scalability – With the ability to upgrade the network, use a wider range of drives, and maintain full DSM functionality, the DS923+ is better suited for users who plan to evolve their setup over time.

In practical terms, the DS925+ is the stronger out-of-the-box choice, especially for users who value simplicity, improved default performance, and do not anticipate needing higher-than-2.5GbE networking down the line. However, the long-term value proposition becomes murkier when you factor in the DS923+’s PCIe expansion, broader drive compatibility, and the potential price drops that will follow its ageing status in Synology’s lineup. In short, the DS925+ is the better NAS on day one—more powerful, faster, and quieter. But if you’re planning for day 1,000, it’s worth pausing to consider whether the expandability and media flexibility of the DS923+ may be a better fit for your storage and networking needs over the next five to seven years.

Synology DS925+ NAS		Synology DS923+ NAS
Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Check B&H for the Synology DS925+ NAS	Check Amazon in Your Region for the Synology DS923+ NAS	Check B&H for the Synology DS923+ NAS

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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

    

 

WE LOVE COFFEE