Is the CWWK N355 Soft Router Firewall / NAS Box Worth Your Data? (Review)

DIY router boxes have gained popularity in recent years, especially those coming out of China with various hardware configurations. The CWWK N355-powered firewall appliance is an intriguing option, not just as a high-performance router but also as a potential NAS device. Unlike many reviews that focus on its networking capabilities, this review explores its viability as a compact and efficient NAS solution.

CWWK N355 DIY 10GbE Router/NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The CWWK N355 is a well-rounded and versatile device that excels in networking, virtualization, and compact NAS applications, thanks to its dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, 2.5GbE LAN, expandable DDR5 RAM, and M.2 NVMe storage support. It is a compelling choice for firewall applications, Proxmox virtualization, and even lightweight NAS or media server setups, offering a balance of performance and connectivity in a compact and durable metal chassis with active cooling. The Alder Lake-N N355 CPU delivers efficient multi-core performance, making it suitable for running multiple services, including Docker containers, VMs, and network security applications. Additionally, its expandable memory and storage options give users flexibility, though its storage implementation is somewhat restrictive due to only one native NVMe slot and a SATA port with no internal mounting space. However, its aging Intel 82599ES 10GbE controller, high idle power consumption of 21-22W, and lack of full-speed PCIe lanes limit its potential for high-performance NAS deployments. While it can handle moderate file-sharing and media streaming workloads, users who require full 10GbE speeds, extensive storage expansion, and power efficiency may find better options in dedicated NAS motherboards with PCIe slots or higher-efficiency processors. Still, for those looking for a compact, high-speed network appliance with strong customization potential, the CWWK N355 remains a solid choice for advanced home labs, small business networking, and hybrid router-NAS setups. As long as users are aware of its networking bottlenecks and storage limitations, it offers impressive versatility and performance at an attractive price point.

BUILD QUALITY - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.6

PROS

High-Speed Networking: Equipped with dual 10GbE SFP+ ports and two 2.5GbE LAN ports, providing excellent connectivity for advanced networking setups.
Expandable Storage: Features two M.2 NVMe slots (one requiring an adapter) and a SATA 3.0 port, allowing for versatile storage configurations.
Efficient Alder Lake-N CPU: The Intel N355 (8C/8T, up to 3.8GHz) offers efficient performance for firewall applications, Proxmox, lightweight NAS, and media servers.
DDR5 Memory Support: Supports up to 48GB DDR5 RAM, enabling smooth multitasking, virtualization, and Docker/containerized environments.
Robust Build and Cooling: Full aluminum chassis acts as a heat sink, with a top-mounted active cooling fan for effective thermal management.
Wide OS Compatibility: Works with Windows 11 Pro, Linux distributions, ESXi, OPNsense, pfSense, OpenWrt, and TrueNAS, making it highly flexible.
Compact and Power-Efficient: Small form factor and 15W TDP CPU make it space-saving and relatively low-power compared to traditional rack-mounted alternatives.

CONS

Aging 10GbE Controller: The Intel 82599ES 10GbE chipset is outdated, limiting maximum network speeds and performance efficiency in high-bandwidth workloads.
Limited SATA Storage Options: While it includes a SATA 3.0 port, there is no internal mounting space for a 2.5-inch drive, requiring external solutions.
Higher Idle Power Draw: Consumes 21-22W at idle, which is higher than dedicated NAS devices, potentially affecting long-term energy costs.

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The CWWK N355 features a robust industrial design, with an all-metal chassis that acts as a heat sink, efficiently dissipating heat from critical components. The exterior is entirely metal, including the base panel, which features mesh ventilation to enhance airflow. A top-mounted active cooling fan ensures consistent airflow across the CPU and networking components, preventing thermal throttling under sustained workloads.

Internally, copper heat plates are placed over the CPU and 10GbE controllers, allowing for direct heat transfer to the chassis. This cooling system is highly effective, maintaining temperatures within safe limits even under heavy network and storage loads. During testing, the device remained at an average of 50-55°C under full load, with the fan producing minimal noise.

The cooling implementation makes the CWWK N355 a viable option for extended use in high-performance NAS, virtualization, or firewall applications where thermal efficiency is crucial. Given its mix of powerful networking features, ample connectivity, and storage options, this device has the potential to serve a broader range of applications than just routing. However, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses is crucial before repurposing it for a NAS setup.

One of the standout features of the CWWK N355 is its impressive network connectivity. Equipped with dual 10GbE SFP+ ports and two 2.5GbE i226V LAN ports, it offers significantly more bandwidth than traditional consumer NAS devices.

These high-speed connections enable rapid file transfers, efficient virtualization networking, and multi-user simultaneous access without bottlenecks.

It also includes two M.2 NVMe slots and a SATA 3.0 port, making it highly flexible for storage configurations. This means users can integrate fast NVMe storage while still having the option to include traditional SATA drives for cost-effective capacity expansion.

The aluminum chassis with active cooling enhances its thermal efficiency, ensuring stable operation even under load, a crucial aspect for maintaining performance in continuous 24/7 operation.

The N355 CPU, an Alder Lake-N processor, brings 8 cores and 8 threads, with a base clock of 1.8GHz and a boost up to 3.8GHz. This processor is designed for efficiency while maintaining a respectable level of performance for various workloads.

It also features integrated Intel UHD graphics, which allows it to handle lightweight GPU tasks such as video decoding, remote desktop applications, and low-power graphical processing.

The DDR5 SO-DIMM slot supports up to 48GB RAM, although some listings mention 32GB as the maximum. This expanded memory capacity is particularly beneficial for virtualization, allowing users to run multiple lightweight VMs, containers, and even a Plex media server with modest hardware-accelerated transcoding capabilities.

The combination of efficient CPU performance and expandable RAM makes it versatile, but users should be aware of its limitations when handling resource-intensive applications.

However, storage expansion comes with some challenges. While the device technically supports two M.2 NVMe drives, only one slot is a standard 2280 interface. The second slot requires an adapter, which is included, but adds complexity to installation. This additional requirement may be a concern for users who are less experienced with hardware modifications or prefer simpler plug-and-play configurations.

The SATA drive support is somewhat limited—while the port is available, there is no dedicated internal space for mounting a 2.5-inch drive inside the enclosure, meaning external mounting is necessary. This lack of internal SATA mounting may be a dealbreaker for those who prefer a more integrated and clutter-free build. While external enclosures or adapters could be used to house SATA drives, it introduces additional complexity and potential cable management issues.

Power consumption is another area of concern. Under idle conditions, the device draws 21-22W, which is quite high compared to traditional NAS appliances. Many consumer NAS systems are designed to run efficiently at around 10W to 15W when idle, making this unit significantly more power-hungry when not under load.

Under load, with 10GbE connections active, VMs running, and storage drives in use, power consumption reaches 36W. While this is still within reasonable limits for a device offering high-speed networking and multi-core processing, it is something to consider for users prioritizing energy efficiency. Over time, the additional power draw may add up, especially for those running multiple devices in a home or small business setup. If power efficiency is a critical factor, other lower-power options might be preferable.

Performance-wise, the M.2 NVMe drives achieve read speeds of up to 720MB/s and write speeds of 690MB/s.

While SATA performance peaks at around 200MB/s with a standard HDD. These speeds are respectable but fall short of fully utilizing the available 10GbE networking potential.

While this is acceptable for most home NAS applications, the 82599ES 10GbE controller is a notable bottleneck. It is an older PCIe Gen2 x4-based controller (in this deployment at least), which limits full 10GbE speeds.

In testing, even with dual 10GbE connections active, network transfers maxed out at around 600-700Mbps per link, rather than saturating the full 10GbE bandwidth on each of them.

This suggests that while it is capable of handling high-speed transfers, it is not the ideal choice for users who need to maximize 10GbE connectivity for large-scale data transfers or enterprise workloads.

While the CWWK N355 offers excellent networking and processing power, its relatively aging 10GbE controller, high idle power consumption, and limited internal storage space make it less ideal for an all-purpose NAS. However, it excels as a high-performance firewall/router, Proxmox host, or Plex server for users who can work around these limitations.

Users interested in setting up an advanced home lab or small business server might find this device appealing due to its networking flexibility, processing capability, and virtualization potential. While it lacks native software optimization found in dedicated NAS brands, those comfortable with manual setup and open-source NAS software will find it a capable and adaptable device.

For those seeking a dedicated NAS solution with full 10GbE performance, an ITX motherboard with PCIe 3.0 slots and dedicated storage expansion might be a better alternative. Such options would provide greater flexibility for storage expansion, more efficient networking solutions, and overall better optimization for NAS workloads. But if you’re looking for a compact, all-in-one networking and storage device, the CWWK N355 is an impressive contender.

Just be mindful of the legacy components and potential bottlenecks before making your final decision. With the right configuration and expectations, it can serve as a cost-effective and powerful addition to a home lab or small business network setup.

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Synology vs QNAP NAS – Which Should You Buy in 2025?

When choosing a NAS solution in 2025, two brands dominate the conversation: Synology and QNAP. These Taiwan-based companies have evolved their offerings significantly over the years, adapting to changing user needs in backup, multimedia, virtualization, and enterprise storage. Synology, with a strong emphasis on software polish and ecosystem integration, continues to appeal to users who prioritize stability and consistency. QNAP, by contrast, leans into offering higher-spec hardware, customization, and flexibility, targeting tech-savvy users who want granular control over their system. This article explores how the two compare across hardware, storage capabilities, software platforms, security, pricing, and overall value. Both Synology and QNAP share a lot of baseline features: multi-platform support across Windows, Mac, and Linux; mobile apps for Android and iOS; web-based GUIs; encryption; multi-user access; and strong community ecosystems. Yet important distinctions emerge as you look deeper. These differences often boil down to Synology delivering a more consistent, “appliance-like” experience, while QNAP offers broader hardware choices and wider compatibility. Neither brand is universally better, but each fits different user priorities. Let’s break down how Synology and QNAP stack up in detail for 2025.

Synology vs QNAP NAS – Hardware Comparison

In terms of hardware variety and specification, QNAP clearly maintains an advantage in 2025. QNAP offers a wider range of NAS models across every price tier, providing more options for users looking for features like 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports, Thunderbolt connectivity, PCIe expandability, and support for AI or GPU cards. Many QNAP systems at even mid-tier levels offer multi-core CPUs, 2.5GbE as a minimum, and M.2 NVMe slots for caching or storage pools. Synology, while offering a hardware range from ARM-based entry units to Xeon-powered enterprise models, typically emphasizes efficiency and stability over raw horsepower, often shipping systems with lower-core-count processors and 1GbE networking by default.

However, Synology’s hardware strategy is tightly coupled to its software-first philosophy. Devices are designed to maximize compatibility, power efficiency, and seamless operation with DSM. Some newer 2025 Synology models do offer improvements — such as M.2 NVMe storage pools and optional 10GbE upgrades — but their pace remains slower compared to QNAP’s frequent hardware refresh cycles. For users whose priority is high performance, customization, or bleeding-edge hardware, QNAP offers far more compelling options. For those seeking low-power, quiet, turnkey systems, Synology still provides highly reliable appliances.

Synology vs QNAP NAS – Storage Services and Scalability 

Storage capabilities represent a growing area of divergence. Synology’s storage ecosystem emphasizes stability and data integrity through Btrfs file systems, SHR (Synology Hybrid RAID), fast RAID rebuilds, and snapshot technology. However, Synology has dramatically tightened its drive compatibility rules from 2025 onwards, particularly in the Plus series and higher, limiting users to certified Synology drives for initialization. This hardline approach restricts flexibility, as users cannot freely install third-party HDDs or SSDs. Meanwhile, users still benefit from technologies like SHR, making mixed-drive RAID arrays easier to manage, though concerns remain about SHR’s future viability under Synology’s evolving drive policies.

	SERVICE	SYNOLOGY	QNAP	Notes
File Services	SMB, AFP, NFS			Cross-platform sharing
	WebDAV			Remote access
	FTP/FTPS			Standard protocols
	Rsync/Remote Sync			Sync across systems
RAID & Storage	Basic, JBOD, RAID 0/1/5/6/10			Core RAID support
	SHR (Hybrid RAID)			Synology-exclusive
	Qtier Auto-Tiering			QNAP-exclusive SSD/HDD tiering
	ZFS Support	(DSM 7.2+ select models)	(QuTS hero)	Synology uses Btrfs more widely
	Storage Pools			Pool-based management
	Thin Provisioning			On supported file systems
	Storage Snapshots	(Btrfs-based)	(ZFS/ext4-based)	Both support snapshot schedules
	Inline Deduplication	(Btrfs)	(ZFS)	Both support dedup, method differs
	SSD Cache (Read/Write)			Model-dependent
	Encryption (AES-256)			Volume/folder-level encryption
Backup & Sync	Hyper Backup / HBS3	(Hyper Backup)	(Hybrid Backup Sync 3)	Functionally equivalent
	Active Backup for Business			Enterprise-grade backup (free)
	Snapshot Replication			Data versioning support
	Cloud Sync			Multi-cloud sync integration

QNAP’s storage flexibility is far greater. Users can utilize almost any NAS-rated or server-class drive from vendors like Seagate, Toshiba, and WD, without vendor lock-in. Beyond standard RAID levels, QNAP offers Qtier for intelligent auto-tiering between SSDs and HDDs and supports ZFS through its QuTS hero operating system. ZFS integration introduces enterprise-grade features such as inline deduplication, compression, triple-parity RAID options, and even faster rebuilds. Expansion is another strong suit for QNAP, with broad support for external expansion enclosures over USB and PCIe, while Synology supports far fewer expansion units. In short, QNAP offers a more powerful, flexible storage environment but demands more technical knowledge to manage effectively.

Synology DSM vs QNAP QTS/QuTS  – Software Compared

Synology’s DSM (DiskStation Manager) remains the benchmark for NAS operating systems in terms of polish, consistency, and ease of use. Its streamlined UI, consistent app design, and stable system management tools make it highly user-friendly. DSM’s integration with Synology Drive, Hyper Backup, Active Backup for Business, and its Office suite provide turnkey productivity and backup solutions. However, Synology is moving increasingly toward a closed ecosystem, prioritizing first-party apps and services over broader third-party integration. Applications like Surveillance Station remain best-in-class, but recent trends — such as discontinuing Video Station — indicate Synology’s increasing control over its ecosystem.

Category	Feature	Synology	QNAP	Notes
Core OS	OS	DSM (DiskStation Manager)	QTS / QuTS hero	QuTS hero is ZFS-based
	Web GUI Dashboard			Both have polished interfaces
	Mobile Apps			DS apps (Synology), Qfile/Qmanager (QNAP)
Virtualization & Containers	Docker Support			QNAP supports LXC too
	Virtual Machines	(VMM)	(Virtualization Station)	QNAP offers GPU passthrough
	GPU Passthrough	(limited)		QNAP supports more virtualization use cases
AI / Surveillance	Surveillance Station		(QVR Pro/Elite)	QNAP includes more free camera licenses
	AI Facial Recognition	(DVA series)	(QVR Face Tiger)	Hardware-dependent
	Smart Object Detection			Both support this in premium models
Media Services	Plex Media Server			Supported by both
	DLNA/UPnP Streaming			Basic media server support
	Video Transcoding (HW Acceleration)	(some models)	(broader support)	QNAP supports external GPUs
	Audio Station / Music Station			Web/mobile access to music
Cloud & Remote Access	QuickConnect / myQNAPcloud	(QuickConnect)	(myQNAPcloud)	Brand-specific DDNS/remote access services
	HybridShare / HybridMount	(HybridShare)	(HybridMount)	Mount cloud storage as local; brand equivalent
Productivity & Apps	Synology Office (Docs, Sheets, Slides)			Google Docs-like suite for Synology only
	Notes / Tasks / Calendar			Productivity tools
	Mail Server & Chat			Business collaboration tools
App Ecosystem	App Center			QNAP has a broader variety
	Package Manager CLI	(synopkg)	(qpkg)	Command-line support for installs

QNAP’s QTS and QuTS hero systems offer greater flexibility and third-party support at the cost of consistency. Users can deploy a much wider range of apps, including those for AI recognition, media streaming, and backup tasks, often with deeper customization options. QNAP’s app ecosystem embraces both QNAP-native and third-party applications, with tools like HybridMount and Hybrid Backup Sync offering robust cloud and backup integrations.

However, design inconsistencies and a more complex setup process make QNAP platforms better suited to technically proficient users. QNAP systems offer more functionality out of the box but can feel less cohesive than Synology’s more curated environment.

Synology vs QNAP NAS – Security 

Synology continues to lead in NAS security in 2025. The company’s multi-layered approach — including an in-house Security Response Team, bug bounty programs, pen-testing partnerships, and rapid patching policies — maintains its reputation as one of the most secure NAS ecosystems. Security Advisor, SSL certificate management, encrypted folders, and proactive system audits are standard across DSM systems. Remote access via QuickConnect is tightly controlled to minimize exposure. This emphasis on hardening and responding quickly to vulnerabilities makes Synology a strong choice for users prioritizing security with minimal manual intervention.

	Service	Synology	QNAP	Notes
Security & Access	2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)			User-level protection
	VPN Server (OpenVPN, L2TP, PPTP)			Standard features
	Firewall + IP Blocking			Security policy management
	SSL Certificate Management			Let’s Encrypt, custom certs
	Security Advisor			Built-in vulnerability scanner

QNAP has made substantial strides in recent years to bolster its security posture, responding to earlier criticisms following ransomware incidents. The introduction of its own PSIRT team, participation in Pwn2Own, and improvements to myQNAPcloud services represent real progress. However, QNAP’s security tools, like Security Counselor, often need to be manually installed and configured. While they now offer multi-factor authentication and SSL options, the user experience around setting up and maintaining a secure environment still lags slightly behind Synology. Power users comfortable with managing network-level protections can achieve strong security on QNAP, but casual users may find Synology’s default setup safer out of the box.

Synology vs QNAP NAS – Price Point and Value 

QNAP consistently offers better raw hardware value for the price across its product range. A mid-tier QNAP NAS typically features higher-core CPUs, 2.5GbE or 10GbE networking, and expandability features like PCIe slots and multiple M.2 NVMe slots — features that, with Synology, are only available at much higher price points.

Additionally, QNAP’s lack of strict HDD compatibility listing (as currently the case for the Synology 2025 series, at the time of writing) and broader compatibility with storage and memory components can significantly reduce the total cost of ownership for DIY-minded users. Synology’s pricing, while generally higher, reflects its software development investment and the overall polish of its systems.

Buyers are paying for a more turnkey experience, better documentation, and consistent performance across the board. Moreover, Synology’s inclusion of powerful free tools like Active Backup for Business and Synology Drive adds enterprise-grade features without additional licensing costs, which in some cases offsets the hardware premium. Nonetheless, for users whose priority is maximum hardware performance and component freedom, QNAP usually offers a stronger return on investment.

Synology vs QNAP NAS – Conclusion and Verdict 

Choosing between Synology and QNAP in 2025 depends largely on user priorities. Synology remains the best choice for users seeking a polished, consistent, stable, and secure NAS experience. Its streamlined DSM platform, reliable first-party apps, and strong support infrastructure make it ideal for small businesses, prosumers, and general users who want a “set it and forget it” solution. However, Synology’s movement toward hardware and software lock-in may be off-putting to users who value flexibility or those unwilling to buy only Synology-branded components. QNAP, by contrast, excels in offering more powerful hardware, greater configuration freedom, and broader third-party app support. Users who want to customize, expand, virtualize, and maximize their system’s capabilities — and who are comfortable managing more complex setups — will find QNAP to be the more empowering platform. While its software consistency and security history lag slightly behind Synology, the gap has narrowed considerably. Ultimately, Synology is the stronger pick for users valuing simplicity and long-term stability, while QNAP offers more opportunities for those willing to trade simplicity for flexibility and raw performance.

NAS Solutions	NAS Solutions
+ Better Software (In almost every respect!) + Much Better Global Support Presence + More business desirable + Larger Range of solutions – Compatibility restrictions on HDD and Upgrades More and more – Underwhelming hardware (comparatively)	+ Better Hardware for Price + Wider Variety of Solutions and Hardware Profiles + Supports ZFS and/or EXT4 (with ZFS platform now available on latest Intel Celeron Systems) + Wide accessory range and compatibility – Software can often feel inconsistent – Hit by Security Issues if the past
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Minisforum MS-A2 PC Review

The Minisforum MS-A2 is the latest entry in Minisforum’s growing lineup of workstation-focused mini PCs. First shown at CES 2025, the MS-A2 builds on ideas introduced in earlier models like the MS01 and MS-A1 but shifts toward an AMD platform, offering users a choice between two high-end Ryzen 9 CPUs. Rather than aiming for the ultra-compact form factor associated with traditional mini PCs, the MS-A2 leans into expandability, performance, and connectivity. It offers multiple M.2 storage slots, PCIe expansion, dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, and a layout designed to accommodate heavier workloads. Throughout this review, we’ll take a closer look at the internal hardware, external connections, design choices, performance in benchmarks, and how it compares to the MS-01, before wrapping up with a final verdict on where it fits in today’s mini PC market.

Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Quick Conclusion

The Minisforum MS-A2 is a powerful mini workstation that targets users needing high CPU performance, network scalability, and internal expandability rather than external device flexibility. Equipped with Ryzen 9 9955HX or 7945HX CPUs, up to 96GB DDR5 memory, triple M.2 slots, and dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, it offers strong capabilities for demanding workloads like virtualization, server hosting, and content creation. However, the absence of USB4/Thunderbolt 4 and observed inconsistencies in storage write speeds mean it may not fit every use case. Positioned alongside rather than as a replacement for the MS-01, the MS-A2 is best suited for buyers who prioritize multi-threaded performance and dense internal storage options in a compact form factor.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

High CPU performance with 16 cores / 32 threads (Ryzen 9 9955HX or 7945HX options)
Support for up to 96GB DDR5 RAM for memory-heavy workloads
Triple PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots with U.2 drive compatibility for large internal storage capacity
Dual 10GbE SFP+ ports and dual 2.5GbE RJ45 ports for advanced networking
PCIe 4.0 x8 expansion slot for GPUs, NICs, or storage controllers
Efficient cooling design with separate fans for CPU and storage/network components
Tool-less chassis access for easy upgrades and maintenance
Strong multi-threaded performance for virtualization, server tasks, and rendering

CONS

No USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 support, limiting external expansion options
Inconsistent storage write speeds observed during testing
Large external 240W power brick, adding to desk clutter

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Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Internal Hardware

Inside the Minisforum MS-A2, users have a choice between two processors: the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX or the Ryzen 9 7945HX. Both CPUs offer 16 cores and 32 threads, with a maximum boost clock of 5.4GHz. The 9955HX uses the newer Zen 5 architecture, while the 7945HX is built on Zen 4. The two processors are close in raw specifications, but the Zen 5 variant benefits from a more efficient 4nm process and updated IPC improvements. Integrated graphics are handled by the Radeon 610M on both options, offering basic graphical capabilities suitable for general-purpose workloads, but not designed for high-end gaming or intensive GPU compute tasks.

Memory support on the MS-A2 is generous for a mini PC. It features two DDR5 SO-DIMM slots, allowing up to 96GB of RAM. Systems based on the Ryzen 9000 series CPUs support memory speeds up to 5600MT/s, while Ryzen 7000 series CPUs are rated for up to 5200MT/s. This flexibility gives users room to configure the system for heavy multitasking, virtualization, or memory-hungry professional applications. However, the MS-A2 does not support ECC memory, which may be a consideration for users needing strict data integrity for server or professional workstation tasks.

Storage options are extensive, with three onboard M.2 slots available. One slot supports U.2 or standard M.2 NVMe drives up to 15TB (PCIe 4.0 x4), while two additional M.2 slots support either NVMe or SATA drives up to 4TB each.

All slots run at PCIe 4.0 speeds, ensuring strong storage performance for workflows like video editing, virtual machines, or database management. Minisforum also hints at future expandability through an optional accessory that would allow for the installation of up to six M.2 drives, although cooling for such configurations is still under development.

Cooling inside the MS-A2 is designed to accommodate the considerable thermal output of the CPUs and storage devices.

A dedicated CPU cooling system with copper piping and a 12V fan handles the processor, while a second 5V fan directly cools the SSD slots and the 10GbE controller. Despite the compact space, Minisforum has optimized airflow reasonably well, but heat sink space is limited, especially for M.2 drives, making active airflow critical.

Overall, the internal hardware layout focuses on balancing high performance with maintainability, though users planning extensive upgrades should be aware of space and thermal limits.

Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Ports and Connections

The Minisforum MS-A2 is equipped with a wide range of external connectivity options aimed at both workstation and server-style deployments. On the front panel, users will find two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, a 3.5mm four-in-one audio jack, and the system’s main power button with integrated LED indicator. This arrangement makes it easy to quickly connect peripherals like external drives, keyboards, or headsets without reaching around to the back of the device.

The rear panel is where the MS-A2’s workstation orientation becomes more evident. It features two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports with Alt Mode DisplayPort 2.0 support, a single HDMI 2.1 output capable of 8K60 video, and dual 2.5GbE RJ45 ports powered by Intel controllers. More notably, the system also includes two 10GbE SFP+ ports driven by an Intel X710 controller, opening up high-speed networking options typically reserved for larger systems.

This broad mix of ports covers a wide range of use cases, from high-resolution displays to enterprise-grade network environments.

The MS-A2 also provides PCIe expansion via a PCIe Gen 4 x8 physical slot, allowing users to install low-profile cards such as additional NICs, storage controllers, or even mobile GPUs through adapters. While the slot runs at x8 electrically, it can mechanically accommodate a x16-sized card, offering some flexibility in component choice.

However, users will need to consider power and thermal requirements carefully, given the limited space and airflow in the chassis. Overall, the MS-A2 offers a strong set of external connection options that match its intended role as a workstation-class device in a small form factor.

Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Design, Cooling and Power Consumption

The Minisforum MS-A2 maintains a compact footprint at 196 × 189 × 48 mm, but compared to typical mini PCs, it leans toward a small form factor workstation design rather than an ultra-portable device. Accessing the internals is straightforward thanks to a tool-less design: a single latch at the rear releases the chassis cover, making upgrades and maintenance simple. Ventilation is placed around all sides and across the base, maximizing airflow within the tight internal layout. Although densely packed, the internal component arrangement is relatively clean and accessible given the system’s size constraints.

Cooling inside the MS-A2 is split between two fans: a 12V fan for the CPU, which uses a heat pipe and fin arrangement, and a separate 5V fan cooling the storage area and 10GbE networking controller.

Minisforum has improved fan placement over the earlier MS-01 model, aiming to deliver better cooling to both the processor and critical components without introducing excessive noise.

During testing, the CPU temperatures at idle remained around 31–32°C, rising to approximately 50–52°C under sustained heavy load, including simultaneous 10GbE network activity and storage operations. SSD temperatures were also well-controlled, aided by direct airflow across the M.2 slots.

Power delivery for the MS-A2 comes through an external 240W power brick, rather than an internal PSU.

This design choice saves internal space but results in a relatively bulky external adapter. In idle conditions, the system drew between 23W and 26W, depending on network activity.

During maximum CPU load under PCMark and 3DMark testing, power consumption peaked at 129W.

Average system operation under moderate workloads saw consumption range between 60W and 80W. These figures suggest a reasonably efficient platform considering the CPU core count and networking capabilities, though users expecting true low-power behavior typical of smaller mini PCs should adjust their expectations accordingly.

Noise levels from the MS-A2 stayed moderate during most activities. Fan noise measured around 36–38 dB under light loads and rose to about 41–43 dB under heavy CPU and network utilization. This places the MS-A2 in a middle ground: quieter than larger workstations but more audible than simpler fanless mini PCs.

Overall, Minisforum’s cooling approach is effective for a compact workstation, balancing thermal performance and acoustic levels without the need for more aggressive—and louder—cooling solutions.

Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Performance Testing

In general usage and synthetic benchmarking, the Minisforum MS-A2 delivered performance levels in line with expectations for a device built around high-end mobile Ryzen processors. PCMark 10 returned an overall score of 6494, with strong showings in productivity (10,353 points) and essentials tasks (11,186 points). Applications like web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing performed without issue, backed by high single-thread and multi-thread responsiveness from the Ryzen 9 9955HX. The MS-A2 consistently handled multitasking loads involving office work, streaming, and background processes without noticeable slowdown.

For more demanding tasks, the MS-A2 remained competitive but showed the limitations of relying solely on integrated graphics. Digital content creation, including tasks like photo editing and light video editing, produced a PCMark 10 sub-score of 6418, which is respectable but not exceptional. 3DMark testing confirmed the Radeon 610M’s limited capabilities for 3D rendering and gaming workloads, achieving a Steel Nomad Light score of 605. These results reaffirm that while the MS-A2 is well-suited to workstation and productivity tasks, it is not designed for gaming or heavy graphical processing without an external GPU.

CPU-centric benchmarks demonstrated the strength of the Ryzen 9 9955HX. In the 3DMark CPU Profile test, the MS-A2 achieved 10,208 points at maximum threads and 9,879 at 16 threads, with a respectable 1,235 points in single-thread performance.

These scores reflect excellent multi-threaded processing capabilities, making the MS-A2 a solid choice for parallelized workloads such as software compilation, virtualization, and data analysis. Across extended testing sessions, thermal throttling was minimal, and the system maintained consistent performance without significant drops under sustained load.

Storage performance varied depending on the drive slot used, but generally provided strong results. Read speeds were consistently high, reaching 5.5 GB/s in AJA testing and peaking at 7.3 GB/s in CrystalDiskMark. However, write speeds showed more inconsistency across different test runs, sometimes peaking near 4 GB/s but with occasional dips depending on the benchmarking tool and conditions. While read performance makes the MS-A2 well suited for workloads involving frequent large file access, users planning heavy write-intensive tasks may want to further validate storage behavior based on their specific needs.

Minisforum MS-A2 or the Minisforum MS-01 PC?

While the Minisforum MS-A2 and MS-01 share a compact workstation focus, they are built around notably different platforms and priorities. The MS-01 uses Intel’s 12th and 13th Gen Core H-series processors, with options ranging from the Core i5-12600H to the Core i9-13900H, alongside Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics. It supports up to 64GB of DDR5 memory at 5200MHz and offers storage flexibility with up to three M.2 SSD slots. Crucially, the MS-01 features two USB4 ports capable of 40Gbps speeds and supports external GPU connectivity, along with dual 2.5GbE RJ45 ports and dual 10GbE SFP+ ports for network-heavy environments.

In contrast, the MS-A2 leverages AMD’s Ryzen 9 9955HX or 7945HX CPUs, offering more cores (16 cores and 32 threads) compared to the MS-01’s maximum of 14 cores and 20 threads. It also supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and includes three PCIe 4.0 NVMe slots, but lacks USB4 or Thunderbolt connectivity. Instead, the MS-A2 leans on internal expandability with a full PCIe 4.0 x8 slot and places a stronger emphasis on internal compute performance rather than external device bandwidth. Users needing the fastest possible external drive support or lighter CPU performance may prefer the MS-01, while those requiring maximum multi-threaded processing power and internal storage scalability will find the MS-A2 better suited to their needs.

Minisforum MS-A2 Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The Minisforum MS-A2 offers a significant amount of performance and expandability within a relatively compact design, but it is important to recognize exactly who this system is built for. Users needing strong CPU performance for workloads like virtualization, software development, database management, or network-attached storage will find a lot to like here. The Ryzen 9 9955HX and 7945HX options deliver high core and thread counts rarely seen in mini PCs, supported by fast DDR5 memory and ample M.2 storage options. Dual 10GbE SFP+ ports and PCIe 4.0 expandability add further flexibility for networked environments or specialized hardware configurations. However, the absence of USB4 or Thunderbolt support means the MS-A2 will not suit workflows heavily reliant on high-speed external devices. Storage write performance inconsistencies observed during testing may also warrant further validation depending on the intended workload.

Compared to the MS-01, the MS-A2 trades away some external connectivity and general-purpose flexibility in favor of raw compute power and internal upgrade potential. It does not replace the MS-01, nor is it a direct successor to the MS-A1—it instead sits alongside these models, offering an AMD-based alternative better suited for users prioritizing workstation performance over consumer-grade convenience. At a price range of $639 to $839 depending on the CPU, the MS-A2 is not inexpensive, and users must weigh its strengths against what they actually need. If maximum internal power, heavy multitasking, and network scalability are the priorities, the MS-A2 justifies its cost. If external GPU use, lighter workloads, or lower noise are the focus, other options—including the MS-01—might make more sense. Overall, the MS-A2 fills an important niche in Minisforum’s lineup, provided buyers approach it with the right expectations.

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Si vous aviez prévu d’acheter un nouveau NAS de la marque Synology cette année, vous allez peut-être déchanter car ces derniers viennent d’annoncer une mauvaise nouvelle. Hé oui, restriction des pools de stockage, perte de la déduplication, de l’analyse de la durée de vie et même plus de mises à jour du firmware… Ouiiiin. Hé non, ce ne sont pas les symptômes d’un RAID qui se dégrade, mais bien les fonctionnalités que l’entreprise va désactiver si vous n’utilisez pas leurs disques durs “propriétaires” ou marques tierces “autorisées par eux” dans leurs prochains NAS série Plus.

Visiting a NAS Production Facility in Shenzhen, China – The CWWK Factory and Office Tour

As part of a broader effort to explore the landscape of Chinese tech manufacturers, I recently visited the facilities of CWWK (ChangWang) in Shenzhen, China. CWWK is best known in enthusiast circles for producing NAS motherboards and compact computing solutions, often associated with budget-friendly, DIY network storage builds. My visit aimed to independently assess the scope and structure of their operations. What made this particular tour notable was the access I was granted: no NDAs were signed, there were no editorial restrictions placed on what I could film or ask, and I was permitted to record freely inside their production and R&D spaces.

This is uncommon, particularly in the tech hardware space, where many brands—especially in Asia—are typically guarded about internal processes, even when media are invited. The open format allowed for a more thorough and independent evaluation, without needing to speculate based on secondhand reports or promotional material.

It’s important to contextualize how the visit came about. CWWK did not arrange or sponsor my trip to China in any way. I was in the region for a series of self-funded visits to multiple tech companies, looking to gain a clearer understanding of how various hardware brands operate behind the scenes. The idea was to go beyond spec sheets and product listings and see what real infrastructure, if any, stood behind companies whose products are often marketed under many different brand names on platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, and Alibaba.

I reached out to CWWK on short notice—roughly 10 to 14 days prior—and they agreed to the visit. The fact that they were able to accommodate the tour with minimal lead time is worth noting. It doesn’t rule out the possibility of some presentation enhancements being made in preparation, but it does suggest that the company was not reliant on elaborate staging to present a working production environment.

The first location I visited was a mixed-use building that included administrative offices, logistics personnel, and access to part of the factory floor. Externally, the building bore no clear CWWK branding, which initially raised questions about ownership or exclusivity. Inside, however, the picture was more cohesive: staff wore uniforms bearing CWWK logos, and product runs on the factory floor featured motherboards that matched CWWK’s catalog.

While I wasn’t given lease documentation or corporate records, the volume of CWWK-branded activity suggested the company either occupies a substantial portion of the facility or has secured long-term, semi-exclusive use of the space. Several floors were accessible, and the presence of both production and support teams indicated that this was more than a satellite or temporary operation. Even so, it’s likely this building is part of a larger industrial complex shared with other tenants, which is common practice in Shenzhen’s manufacturing zones.

One of the key questions I brought to the visit concerned product design and IP ownership—specifically, whether CWWK truly engineers its own hardware or rebrands ODM (original design manufacturer) platforms that are available generically to other companies. In a formal meeting with several members of their team, facilitated by a translator, I was told that all motherboard designs are created in-house.

The company emphasized that while many of their designs do appear under other brand names, including through known resellers or system integrators, the core engineering and schematics originate from their internal teams. Some of these designs, they explained, are distributed under license or through contract manufacturing relationships.

While I wasn’t shown the full design pipeline or documentation for each SKU, I was given access to product schematics, test rigs, and development areas. Based on what I observed, it’s reasonable to conclude that CWWK controls the design process and that their platforms are later distributed—often without clear attribution—by partner companies.

Technical support and warranty policies are often ambiguous when it comes to imported tech from overseas sellers, so I took the opportunity to ask about their post-sales procedures. According to CWWK staff, customers who purchase through major e-commerce channels like AliExpress and Alibaba are serviced directly by the company’s internal support team. This contradicts the assumption that resellers handle all inquiries. They described a standard one-year warranty policy, during which defective products are repaired where feasible rather than replaced outright.

While this approach may not satisfy buyers expecting instant replacements, it aligns with broader industry trends aimed at reducing e-waste and extending hardware lifespans. I observed a dedicated support office where staff were responding to issues, many of which involved firmware or BIOS concerns. The responses to my questions were generally clear but did follow a templated structure, which made it difficult to determine how adaptable their support might be in complex cases.

Moving onto the factory floor, I was able to observe multiple stages of the production workflow. The environment combined automated processes—such as SMT (surface mount technology) component placement and soldering—with manual checkpoints, where staff would verify board integrity, inspect connector alignment, and move products between stations. The factory space showed signs of active use: floor scuffing, desk wear, and tooling marks suggested long-term operation rather than short-term setup.

Workers were equipped with anti-static wrist straps, and safety protocols appeared to be in place, though a few inconsistencies were observed. For instance, not all staff were wearing the full lab coats or coverings that I was required to wear as a visitor. While that’s not uncommon in similar facilities, it’s worth noting in the context of manufacturing discipline. Overall, the workflow followed a logical structure, and there were observable quality checks along the line, including one instance where a misaligned port was flagged and redirected for correction.

Direct interaction with factory personnel was limited, mainly due to language barriers and the guided nature of the tour. I attempted brief conversations, but most staff were focused on their tasks and understandably uninterested in lengthy exchanges with a foreign visitor.

I did not observe any signs of distress or visible overwork, but equally, I did not have enough time or context to draw firm conclusions about working conditions. The facility walls displayed motivational signage, some of which featured quite stern phrasing around responsibility and company reputation.

These types of messages—such as “Your mistakes are our mistakes”—may reflect common workplace culture in the region rather than specific managerial attitudes. In contrast, a separate building used for research and marketing featured more aspirational language. These environmental details may offer some insight into the tone and structure of the company, although they should be interpreted cautiously.

A portion of the facility was allocated to repairs and technical diagnostics. I observed several staff members actively responding to customer-reported issues and working on returned products. Desks were equipped with diagnostic tools and some BIOS interfaces were visible on screens.

In a nearby room, technicians were repairing or reworking boards—examples included reseating CPUs, correcting poorly soldered connectors, and inspecting DIMM slots.

Although the scale of this area was not massive (around six to eight desks), it indicated an operational RMA process. I did not assess how quickly repairs are processed or whether every return is examined manually, but the team appeared to be addressing real customer issues, not simply staging activity for the tour. Staff in this area were dressed more casually than the production line workers, likely due to the nature of their tasks involving pre-owned or defective components.

The second facility, located in the Beta Industrial Park, was clearly identified as a CWWK property. Unlike the first building, this one included prominent company branding, product showcases, and internal signage referencing CWWK’s development roadmap.

The upper floors were used by the R&D and marketing teams. In a dedicated product room, I was shown nearly every motherboard they’ve developed, including legacy models and upcoming releases. Several new boards were in early development, featuring high-density SATA fan-outs via SFF-8654 and NVMe expandability.

Designs ranged from micro-ITX to mATX, with plans to scale modularly using add-on cards for storage and connectivity. I also viewed design schematics and 3D renderings used to plan component layout and case compatibility. CWWK is working on 10GbE-capable models using newer Intel and AMD platforms, including boards with ECC memory support and USB4 integration. While I was not permitted to document everything in detail, the scope and clarity of the development process suggested an active, technically capable engineering team.

After spending a full day across both facilities, my overall impression of CWWK was that of a mid-sized but competent hardware developer with a growing international presence. While the first building’s exact ownership remains somewhat ambiguous, the second building was clearly operated and branded by CWWK, housing their product, development, and marketing teams. More significantly, based on my observations and the responses given, it is clear that CWWK designs and owns the intellectual property behind their motherboards.

There were also strong indications that they serve as an upstream supplier for other brands—likely including companies like Topton, MrRoute, and similar resellers often seen on Chinese e-commerce platforms. Whether these partners act as distributors, integrators, or white-label resellers wasn’t explicitly stated, but the relationship appears to exist.

CWWK is not a shell company or brand-only operation; it is a functioning developer and manufacturer of computing hardware with its own IP, infrastructure, and personnel. For buyers, this doesn’t automatically guarantee performance or support satisfaction, but it does lend some credibility and traceability to a product category often dominated by opaque supply chains and unbranded goods.

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Updates on the Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro NAS

Minisforum is no stranger to shaking up established markets. Known primarily for its innovative and compact mini PCs, the brand has now turned its attention to network-attached storage (NAS) solutions. Earlier this year at CES 2025, Minisforum unveiled the N5 Pro NAS — a five-bay, AI-optimized device that instantly caught the attention of NAS enthusiasts. Now, after a visit to Minisforum’s headquarters and production facilities in Shenzhen, we have a deeper look into this bold new entry into the NAS market.

The N5 Pro is confirmed to be nearing launch, and joining it is a new, more affordable sibling: the Minisforum N5. These new devices aim to strike a compelling balance between powerful performance, modular flexibility, and enthusiast-grade features. Whether you’re building a high-performance TrueNAS server, exploring AI-assisted photo management, or just want to future-proof your home media solution, the N5 Series looks like it could be one of the most exciting NAS hardware releases of 2025. To top it off, Minisforum is also experimenting with their own NAS operating system, which could give users a turnkey alternative to the usual DIY route. Let’s break down what’s been confirmed, what’s new, and why it matters.

Minisforum N5 Pro – Fully Featured and AI-Ready

The N5 Pro NAS remains the flagship of Minisforum’s 2025 storage push, and nearly all the specs shown at CES have now been fully confirmed. It arrives equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 CPU, a 12-core/24-thread processor built on the Zen 5 architecture, which includes an integrated AI engine.

The design emphasizes airflow and modularity, with a sliding motherboard tray, magnetic front bay cover, and an updated second-gen chassis with better heat dissipation. The system is designed for prosumers and power users, featuring ECC memory support (a rarity in this price segment) and up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM.

Storage-wise, it supports five hot-swappable SATA drives and three M.2 NVMe SSDs — more than enough for a complex ZFS setup or tiered storage architecture. Expansion capabilities are strong as well, with PCIe 4.0 x4, OCuLink for external GPUs or JBODs, and dual Ethernet (10GbE + 5GbE).

Minisforum is also considering offering a 64GB M.2 module preloaded with their custom OS, allowing users to keep all M.2 slots free for data.

The N5 Pro is designed as an open system: while it may ship with Minisforum’s OS on request, users can freely install TrueNAS, UnRAID, OpenMediaVault, or any OS of their choosing — with no impact on warranty.

Category	Specification
CPU	AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 (12C/24T, up to 5.2GHz, Zen 5, NPU AI Engine)
GPU	AMD Radeon 890M (Integrated)
RAM	Up to 128GB DDR5 ECC (2x SODIMM, 5600MHz)
SATA Storage	5 x 3.5″/2.5″ SATA (Hot-swappable, up to 22TB each)
M.2 Storage	1x 2230/2280 PCIe 4.0 x1, 1x 2280/22110 PCIe 4.0 x1, 1x 2280/22110 PCIe 4.0 x2
Expansion	1 x PCIe 4.0 x4, 1 x OCuLink 4i (PCIe 4.0 x4)
Networking	1 x 10GbE RJ45, 1 x 5GbE RJ45
I/O Ports	2 x USB4 (40Gbps), HDMI 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2, Audio out
Power Supply	280W PSU
Optional Add-on	64GB OS Module (TBC)

Minisforum N5 – A More Affordable, Scaled-Down Option

The new Minisforum N5 is being developed as a cost-effective alternative to the N5 Pro. It retains the same chassis and internal layout but swaps out the high-end CPU and ECC memory support in favor of more accessible hardware.

This device is still in the evaluation phase, with Minisforum considering two CPU options: the AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 8645HS or Ryzen 5 7640HS. Both offer 6 cores and 12 threads, with clock speeds up to 5GHz, and may allow better PCIe lane distribution than the Pro model. Despite the lower-tier specs, the N5 is far from underpowered.

It still supports up to 128GB of DDR5 (non-ECC), the full five SATA bays, three M.2 NVMe slots, OCuLink, and even dual USB4 ports. Where it diverges is networking: the current prototypes drop 10GbE support and may ship with either dual 5GbE ports or a combination of 5GbE and 2.5GbE. For many home users, this is still more than adequate, especially if the N5 launches at a competitive price point.

Like the Pro version, the N5 may include the optional 64GB OS module and support for Minisforum’s in-house NAS OS. Alternatively, users can bring their own OS without voiding support. This flexibility means the N5 could become an attractive entry point for first-time NAS builders or budget-conscious prosumers.

MinisCloud OS – Minisforum’s In-House NAS Software

One of the most intriguing developments is Minisforum’s potential entry into the NAS software space. Internally referred to as MinisCloud OS, this new platform is based on the Siyouyun OS framework (a Debian-based system used by several emerging NAS brands). Still in early development, the OS aims to provide a balance of accessibility and advanced features for home and small business users. Minisforum is evaluating whether to offer the OS pre-installed on the 64GB module, as a downloadable image (possibly SN-locked), or as an optional add-on at checkout. Importantly, this software will be optional, and using TrueNAS, UnRAID, or any third-party OS will not affect warranty or support.

Key Features of MinisCloud OS (In Development):

• ZFS storage support (snapshots, compression, deduplication)
• Multi-user management with 2FA/MFA

• AI-based photo recognition (faces, objects)
• Docker container and App Center
• Built-in file manager & download manager

• Support for SMB, WebDAV, FTP, DLNA
• Multimedia center for streaming content

A Promising Disruption to the NAS Market

Minisforum’s bold entry into the NAS arena is more than a rehash of mini PC hardware — it’s a fresh and flexible approach to modern storage needs. With the N5 Pro targeting power users and the N5 aiming for budget-friendly builders, both models offer advanced connectivity, modularity, and optional OS features rarely seen in compact NAS systems. If pricing lands right, the N5 Series could challenge established NAS vendors and appeal to the DIY home server crowd in a big way. We’ll continue tracking release dates, pricing, and software developments — stay tuned for our full hardware reviews and performance testing. For more, check out our upcoming Shenzhen factory tour and hands-on videos at NASCompares

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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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CWWK N355 DIY NAS Motherboard Review

The CWWK N355 DIY NAS motherboard is a Mini-ITX board designed for users looking to build a compact yet powerful NAS system with high storage capacity and expansion potential. Featuring the Intel Twin Lake N355 processor, dual 2.5GbE networking, six SATA ports, and two NVMe slots, it balances performance and affordability. With PCIe 3.0 expansion and a power-efficient CPU, it provides a solid foundation for home lab enthusiasts and small-scale NAS builders. However, it does come with some limitations, particularly in PCIe lane allocation and component placement. This review covers design, hardware, storage, performance tests, and overall value to determine whether it’s the right choice for your next DIY NAS project.

Available in two configurations, the N150 quad-core version ($174) and the N355 octa-core version ($288), this motherboard positions itself as a budget-friendly but capable alternative to more expensive NAS solutions. While the onboard features are generous for the price, the placement of components and some design choices might limit expandability for certain users. Let’s dive deeper.

CWWK N355 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The CWWK N355 DIY NAS motherboard provides a solid balance between affordability and performance, making it a strong option for NAS builders and home lab users. With six SATA ports and two NVMe slots, it offers flexible storage options, while dual 2.5GbE networking ensures decent network speeds. The PCIe 3.0 x4 slot allows for expansion, but lane allocation limitations could be a bottleneck for certain configurations. Power efficiency is excellent, and during testing, the N355 CPU handled multiple VMs, media streaming, and general NAS tasks well. However, thermal management and component placement could have been better, particularly around the PCIe and SATA ports.

Overall, the CWWK N355 is a capable Mini-ITX NAS motherboard, especially for those comfortable with DIY setups. The lack of ECC memory support, PCIe lane sharing, and close component placement are drawbacks, but for the price, it remains a versatile and well-featured board.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 9/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.8

PROS

Compact Mini-ITX design, ideal for NAS builds
Dual 2.5GbE ports for enhanced network performance
Six SATA ports for ample storage expandability
Two NVMe slots for high-speed SSD caching or storage
Energy-efficient Intel N355 CPU with low power draw
Good virtualization support for lightweight VMs and containers
Strong media streaming performance, including Plex compatibility
Affordable price point compared to similar NAS motherboards

CONS

PCIe slot placement may block SATA ports with larger cards
Limited PCIe lanes constrain high-speed expansion options
No ECC memory support, which may be a concern for some user

Where to Buy a Product
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CWWK N355 NAS Review – Design

The CWWK N355 DIY NAS motherboard follows a compact Mini-ITX design, offering a good mix of functionality and space efficiency. Its 10-layer high-density PCB provides durability, while the standard ATX 24-pin power and 4-pin CPU power connectors make it easy to integrate into various NAS chassis. The purple PCB aesthetic is unique, setting it apart from many other DIY NAS motherboards. However, despite its compact build, some of the design choices create challenges when it comes to expandability.

One of the most noticeable issues is the placement of the PCIe 3.0 x4 slot in relation to the SATA ports. While the board allows for expansion cards like RAID controllers or 10GbE adapters, the proximity of the PCIe slot to the six SATA ports means that larger cards can obstruct some of the SATA connections.

This could force users to choose between additional network connectivity and full SATA drive support, which is an unfortunate trade-off. Ideally, an SFF-8087 or OCuLink alternative for SATA connectivity would have been a better approach, reducing port congestion.

The built-in cooling options are fairly basic, with a single CPU fan header and two system fan headers (only one supporting PWM). While the board is designed for low-power efficiency, adding high-performance storage or running multiple VMs may generate additional heat that requires better cooling.

The included stock CPU cooler is not ideal, as it sits too close to nearby components, making it harder to install without interfering with the SO-DIMM DDR5 memory slot. Users are advised to invest in a third-party low-profile cooler for better thermal management.

On the connectivity side, dual 2.5GbE network ports (Intel i226V) provide solid networking performance for most NAS use cases, with support for SMB Multichannel and link aggregation. The limited USB selection, however, could be a concern.

With only one USB 3.0 port and three USB 2.0 ports, users relying on external storage or bootable USB setups may find the available connections restrictive. That said, the internal USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 headers provide some additional flexibility for internal USB-based boot drives, but a few more rear-facing USB ports would have been welcome.

CWWK N355 NAS Review – Storage

Storage is a key strength of the CWWK N355 motherboard, with a combination of six SATA3 ports and two M.2 NVMe slots offering flexibility for different storage configurations. The ASM1166 SATA controller is responsible for managing the six SATA ports, providing stable performance for hard drives and SSDs. Users looking to build a NAS with high-capacity drives will appreciate the dedicated SATA expansion, which supports RAID configurations through software.

The two M.2 NVMe slots, while a welcome addition, are limited to PCIe 3.0 x1 speeds, meaning they can only reach maximum sequential throughput of around 780-800MB/s. This is a clear limitation compared to PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe slots found in higher-end boards. However, these slots are still useful for caching or fast-access storage, especially when paired with SATA drives for bulk data storage.

During testing, a RAID 0 setup with six 4TB HDDs achieved 650MB/s sustained throughput, showing that the ASM1166 controller handles multiple drives efficiently. Performance with SATA SSDs was better, with speeds saturating the SATA3 interface at 550-560MB/s per drive. Users expecting enterprise-level speeds may find this limiting, but for general NAS applications, it performs well.

Another consideration is PCIe lane allocation. Because the ASM1166 controller operates on a PCIe 3.0 x1 interface, total throughput is shared across all six SATA ports. This means that in heavy read/write operations across multiple drives, users might encounter bottlenecks. Those planning on maximizing SATA performance should ensure efficient data distribution across drives.

Ultimately, while the storage configuration is flexible and functional, the PCIe 3.0 x1 restrictions on both NVMe and SATA controllers present some limitations. For users needing high-speed NVMe storage, a motherboard with PCIe 3.0 x4 support per NVMe slot would be preferable, but for most NAS applications, the N355 provides good storage expandability at a reasonable price.

Interestingly, when I rand 100x 1GB File tests via terminal on each of the Gen 3×1 m.2 NVMe, the numbers were pretty good (factoring in the efficient class CPU and 1 lane of Gen 3 – so was never gonna exceed 800-900MB/s anyway).

Afterwards, I wanted to check if the PCIe slot was sharing lane space with the 2nd m.2 slot (as is the case on some of the N100/N305 NAS Moos before) and I am pleased to confirm that I was able to use terminal and 100x 1GB Read on both the 2nd M.2 NVMe slot AND another m.2 NVMe on a PCIe Card mounted on via the PCIe 3×4 slot.

So I am quite happy with the data/internal bandwidth in these tests with such a modest CPU. Let’s discuss this internal hardware and performance more.

CWWK N355 NAS Review – Tests & Performance

The Intel N355 CPU offers efficient performance for NAS-related tasks, including file sharing, virtualization, and media streaming. During testing, it handled multiple VMs running concurrently, with each assigned a virtual CPU and minimal RAM. Even under load, the CPU maintained stable performance without excessive heat generation, making it suitable for users who need a lightweight but capable processing unit for home lab applications.

Network performance was another highlight, with the dual 2.5GbE interfaces providing a combined throughput of up to 550MB/s in link aggregation mode. Real-world file transfers over SMB showed consistent multi-gigabit speeds, demonstrating the board’s ability to handle data-heavy operations effectively. However, users aiming for 10GbE connectivity will need to rely on the PCIe slot, which introduces some trade-offs in terms of expansion options.

In media applications, the N355 CPU managed simultaneous 1080p and 4K Plex streams, with CPU usage remaining under 60% during software transcoding. Native playback and direct-streaming performed significantly better, with no noticeable impact on system resources. While the board lacks dedicated hardware transcoding support, it remains a viable option for users relying on direct-play workflows.

Power efficiency remained a strong suit, with idle power consumption measuring around 9-10W with SSDs installed, increasing to 30-40W under load with multiple drives and VMs active. The low TDP ensures minimal heat output, but active cooling is still recommended for prolonged high workloads. Overall, performance results confirm that this board is well-optimized for NAS duties, though users with high-end processing needs may require a more powerful solution.

CWWK N355 NAS MITX Board Review – Verdict & Conclusion

The CWWK N355 DIY NAS motherboard is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable and feature-rich Mini-ITX solution for NAS applications. Its combination of dual 2.5GbE networking, six SATA ports, and two NVMe slots offers a strong foundation for storage and high-speed connectivity. Performance-wise, the N355 CPU handles virtualization and media streaming well, maintaining a low power draw while running multiple tasks efficiently. However, the limited PCIe lane allocation can restrict certain use cases, particularly when adding high-performance storage or networking upgrades. Despite these constraints, this motherboard delivers solid performance for users prioritizing a cost-effective and power-efficient NAS setup.

That being said, users should carefully consider their expansion needs before purchasing, as PCIe slot placement and bandwidth limitations may impact future upgrades. Additionally, the lack of ECC memory support may be a concern for enterprise-level deployments, though most home users and small-scale NAS setups will not be significantly affected. Ultimately, the CWWK N355 stands out as a capable and versatile board, offering good performance, reasonable expandability, and excellent value for money.

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How to Install TrueNAS Scale/Core on a Terramaster NAS

If you’re new to private server storage, you’ve probably heard the phrase “everything runs on Linux.” While that’s not entirely true (many other platforms exist with their own foundations), Linux remains the dominant base for much of the software we use daily—including Network Attached Storage (NAS). When it comes to NAS, most new or less experienced users fall into two main categories:

1. DIY Enthusiasts – Those who prefer to build their own systems, optimizing costs and flexibility with open-source platforms like TrueNAS Scale (the Linux-based counterpart to the popular TrueNAS Core on FreeBSD).
2. Turnkey Buyers – Those willing to pay extra for a prebuilt system, even if it means dealing with some software limitations.

But what if you want the best of both worlds? Good news—you can have it! In this guide, I’ll show you how to transform TerraMaster’s highly affordable NAS solutions (arguably the best value on the market right now) into a TrueNAS -powered, ZFS-backed NAS system. Even the 2024/2025 models come well-equipped with multiple NVMe support (the F8 SSD PLUS as a particular stand out device), 2.5GbE networking, embedded graphics CPUs, and more, making them a fantastic base for a Linux NAS.

Best of all, setting this up is much easier than you might think, completely reversible, and provides you with the customization and flexibility of TrueNAS while still benefiting from a prebuilt 24/7 server at an unbeatable price. Sounds great, right? Let’s get started with the step-by-step guide!

Note – You can watch my FULL 30 Min+ beginners Guide to installing TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS Here

TrueNAS on Terramaster – What You Need?

Before you begin, it’s important to note that simply owning a TerraMaster NAS isn’t enough. To get TrueNAS up and running, you’ll need to complete a few preliminary checks and have a few extra items—many of which you may already have at home or in the office. If not, a quick $10 purchase online should cover it.

To upgrade your TerraMaster NAS to TrueNAS , make sure you have the following:

• A Terramaster NAS Drive with (minimum) an Intel 64bit x86 CPU and a minimum 2GB of Memory (recommended 8GB+)
• Download the latest stable release of TrueNAS here as a system image (you will be converting this to USB later on) – DOWNLOAD
• Any Data that is currently on the Terramaster NAS RAID that is mission critical to be backed up or moved (as it will be completely formatted)
• A USB drive no bigger than 9mm x 17mm x 20mm ( I STRONGLY recommend THIS ONE here from Sandisk, as it is low price and incredibly small, even at 32GB)

• I recommend not using a USB larger than 32GB, due to the constraints of 1st party software to format larger than this in FAT32. Don’t be tempted to spend like $2 more for a 64GB, as the TrueNAS installation will occupy the full USB space (as you will create a system-image-USB) and space is utterly irrelevant when the TrueNAS installation is so small
• A Disk Image to USB conversion too. I recommend ‘Rufus’, currently in ver 3.19 and can be run in a portable .exe form that doesn’t require installation – DOWNLOAD
• A basic USB Keyboard (example HERE but really, any will do) and an HDMI Monitor (or simply any device that has an HDMI input – NOT output) such as a TV or Capture card
• Hard Drive and/or SSD media (you should already have these, but just in case) for your storage
• Optional – Download Advanced IP Scanner HERE, as it is a really useful tool for analyzing your network and finding your new TrueNAS NAS for remote access

That is about it. Most of these (maybe not the USB drive at that physical size) you will almost certainly already have to hand.

Can I Reverse the TrueNAS Installation back to Terramaster TOS?

Almost certainly, yes! However, there is one key consideration. When switching from TerraMaster’s TOS to TrueNAS , the internal drives (HDDs and/or SSDs) will be formatted to ZFS, meaning they won’t be recognized by TOS if you choose to switch back later.

The good news? Reverting back is incredibly easy—all you need to do is replace the internal USB drive and reboot the system. However, switching between NAS operating systems will wipe the data on the drives, so be sure to back up your important files elsewhere before proceeding.

Now that you’re ready, let’s move on to installing TrueNAS on your TerraMaster NAS!

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 1, Download TrueNAS

Head to the TrueNAS website HERE and download the latest stable release of the software to your local PC, Linux or Mac system. Make sure to remember where you downloaded it.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 2, Download Rufus USB Image Tool

Head to the Rufus website and download the latest version of that tool – I recommend downloading the standalone executable file here, as then it will immediately run when you double click the file, without installation etc. It may redirect you to Github, but it will be the same executable file. Once again, remember where you downloaded it.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 3, Preparing the USB

Connect the small form factor USB Drive to your system (again, this is the one I used from Sandisk) and after a few seconds, it should appear as an available USB Drive. The drive MAY need formatting (you will be prompted to do so), if that is the case, then you can format it via the system prompts and by default, it will format it to FAT32 (as long as your USB is less than 32GB). If you are not presented with a system prompt to format your USB, then you can head into My PC, or My Computer via a windows computer and right-click the drive, select ‘format’ and format it that way.

If you have used the USB for other things previously, there is a chance that the drive has existing partitions in place. For that, the quickest way to completely remove any partitions is to open up the bottom-left windows system menu as normal, and then just type diskpart and open the command-line GUI tool. From there, use the command list disk to show the available drives that are connected, you will see your USB (normally disk 1 or 2, but can differ depending on your system layout and can be spotted by the storage amount). From there, type select disk # (where # is the drive number that your USB is shown as) and then type clean, which which will then remove any index structure for the drive (i.e the partitions and existing format) and then you can go back to the My Computer/My PC page and format the drive to FAT 32 as normal.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 4, Creating a USB Installer Image of TrueNAS

Open the Rufus application and from there you will see the USB Drive (listed as NO NAME, or ‘UNTITLED’, ETC) at the top. From there, look to the select image/find image option (depending on the ver. of Rufus or your USB Image Creator tool of choice) and find the TrueNAS disk image you downloaded earlier). If the drive is not listed, it may have downloaded as a compressed/archive file. If that is the case, head to the location of where you downloaded TrueNAS (in your file explorer, not in Rufus) and right-click the file you downloaded. If the option to ‘extract‘ is visible, then you can extract it (i.e unpack it to the original form) in that same download directory. From there, head back into RUFUS and then the TrueNAS system image should be visible. Select it, then run the Rufus System image creator tool and create your USB bootable TrueNAS disk image.

REMEMBER! This will completely format your USB drive and any files that are on that USB will be destroyed. The system image creator tool will turn the USB into a pure boot image tool – the USB will not be usable for traditional storage again unless you completely format it again.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 5, REMOVE THE USB FROM YOUR PC!!!!!!!!!

Really, really important and sometimes overlooked. Once the USB creation is completed, you need to remove the USB (using the eject hardware safely option at the bottom right of your windows machine taskbar as normal). DO NOT accidentally leave the USB in your USB Ports for any longer than necessary. If you leave it in and your system reboots at any point (eg in a normal ‘end of day shut down, go home, reboot tomorrow’ scenario), then the system might boot directly into the TrueNAS installation and although it is easy to exit from, it can change your system default boot preferences, maybe even remove your primary boot drive as the OS drive – requiring a little messing with a windows installation disk to change it back. The odds of this are very small, but not zero, so make sure to safely remove your USB drive when the TrueNAS system image creator tool is completed.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 6, Opening up your Terramaster NAS

This next step is going to differ depending on the Terramaster NAS Drive you are choosing to use. For this guide, I am using a 2022/2023 generation F4-423 4-Bay NAS, but the general steps are the same for any Terramaster NAS (though the location of the USB will differ) (the F8 SSD PLUS for example has a particularly secluded USB key internally). With the Terramaster NAS disconnected from the network and from any power source. From there you will need to remove the external casing. In the case of most Terramaster NAS, the chassis is held by 4-6 screws on the rear of the casing that, when removed, allow you to remove the rear pannel+fans and slide the internal framework out the front of the casing (be sure to check the fans are not disconnected accidentally in this process). IMPORTANT – Remove any HDD/SSD Media during the dismantling of the Terramaster NAS chassis, as it would be so, SO easy to harm these with accidentally dropping/motion damage. No need to remember the order of the drives when you re-install them, as they are going to be formatted during the TrueNAS installation.

Now, if you take a closer look at the main controller board of the Terramaster NAS (the one with network/USB ports attached, not the one that the HDD/SSD bays are on), you will spot a VERY small USB module in a tiny USB port. It should look something like this:

Now, THIS is where the default Terramaster TOS NAS software installation is kept. This is NOT where the OS actually runs from, but this is where the system checks in it’s BIOS when booting to find installation media (IF the system does not already have an active OS on the drives). Very delicately (as it IS a small USB and likely tucked in next to some other delicate components) remove the USB there is there, put it somewhere safe (as you will need this if you ever want to return the Terramster back to a TOS software system) and then replace it with the USB from earlier that has the TrueNAS system image you created in Rufus. THIS is why you needed a very small USB, as otherwise there is simply no way you would fit a traditional USB flash stick in the space provided.

That is pretty much it. This only other thing to factor in here is IF your Terramaster NAS does NOT have an external HDMI port. Most Terramsater NAS released in 2020-2025 have an HDMI port on the rear that although largely useless in TOS, is still accessible (something you will need for TrueNAS initialization. However, some Terramaster NAS with Intel Processors have the HDMI Port located INSIDE the main chassis (especially the older great box 2019-2020 gen devices). So, IF your NAS has an inside HDMI port, you are going to need to connect an  HDMI monitor to it and run the initial installation (covering in a bit) with the chassis in this open state. After installation is complete, you can close the Terramaster NAS chassis up. Otherwise, if your NAS already has an external HDMI port, you can go ahead and reconstruct the NAS chassis. Essentially, if you NAS has integrated graphics (Intel Celeron, Pentium, N100, N305, Core, etc), you will have an HDMI output.

NOTE – If you plan on upgrading the memory of your NAS to 8GB-16GB (in order to use ALL of the features of TrueNAS to their fullest extent), I would recommend doing so at this point before rebuilding the physical chassis again, as many Terramaser NAS have the 2nd SODIMM memory slot in really tight locations.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 7, Accessing the HDMI Port and Keyboard Control

Next, you need to start getting the system ready for Initialization and Setup. I would strongly recommend running the first-time installation via a direct interface with the Terramaster NAS. You will need to connect an HDMI Monitor/TV/Capture Card to the HDMI port of the NAS, a Keyboard (and/or mouse) to an available USB port) and then connect the power/network connections to the NAS and boot the device up.

After a few minutes, the TrueNAS GUI/Command will appear on your monitor and all you need to do is navigate the config choices to set up your TrueNAS NAS the first time.

Important – TrueNAS Scale/Core runs at its best when it is run on a separate drive from your storage. Much like an Operating System, you can install TrueNAS on an available SSD in a SATA or NVMe SSD slot in the Terramaster NAS, then (after initialization) you can go into the TrueNAS > Storage area and create a pool of storage using the available storage media bays,

It is NOT recommended that you install it on a USB drive, for reasons of speed and power-connections.

After you have completed the setup and are back at the initial TrueNAS boot menu, select the ‘SHUTDOWN‘ option (not reboot/restart, for reasons I will explain in a moment).

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 8, Remove the Boot USB Drive

Once your Terramaster NAS has fully powered down, you need to disconnect the storage, power and any other cables, then open up the Terramaster NAS again (if it was re-constructed from earlier) and then remove the USB drive you installed earlier with TrueNAS boot loader on it. You need to do this as otherwise, when you reboot the Terramaster NAS, it will reboot into the bootloader again. You can skip past this and/or it will not action a reinitialization without your input, but better to remove the USB and therefore allow the system to always immediately boot into the TrueNAS system. After you have reconstructed the terramaster NAS, you can go ahead and connect all the cables and power on the device.

Note – Do NOT replace the USB with the original Terramaster USB Drive that it arrived with, or the system will auto boot into the Terramaster TOS Installation setup.

TrueNAS on a Terramaster NAS – Step 9, Reboot the NAS

Upon rebooting the Terramaster into TrueNAS (can take up to 5 mins, but usually much quicker). You have two options with how to access the configuration and controls. You can use the HDMI+Keyboard if you choose for console/command level access, but it will be ALOT higher a learning curve than the network GUI.

Alternatively (much more recommended), use a program such as Advanced IP Scanner, which is free and VERY useful anyway, or even network command prompt) to scan your local area network and find where the Terramaster with TrueNAS is located (i.e it’s IP). This IP (eg 192.168.1.111) is what you put into the URL bar ofay web browser and it will load into the login GUI for TrueNAS . From here you will need to use the username ‘root’ in combination with the password that you created during initialization.

And that is about it. You now have TrueNAS installed as the default OS of your Terramaster NAS. From here you can do anything and everything that his highly regarded ZFS powered server software offers. Head into the Storage area and start creating pools, as well as areas for caching and lots more features.

TrueNAS Core was recently updated to ver.13 in a stable release of the FreeBSD format, as well as new improvements in the Linux-based version ‘TrueNAS ‘. The first thing you are going to need to do when setting up your TrueNAS > Terramaster NAS server is set up your storage. Do this by heading into the storage tab and following the handy steps on screen. After that, you can pretty much do anything on your new ZFS NAS!

You can find out more about TrueNAS in my full review below that covers everything I like and dislike about the platform:

Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has helped you make the most of your storage setup. If you’d like to support my work and help me create more guides, reviews, and tutorials on NAS and related topics, there are several ways to do so—I’d truly appreciate any support!

• Visit the “Support NAS Passion” page [HERE] to explore different ways to contribute.
• Use the links below when shopping for NAS hardware—purchasing through these links earns us a small commission (at no extra cost to you), which helps keep the site running.
• Spread the word! If you found this guide useful, share it with friends, colleagues, or on your favorite social media platform.

Thank you again for your support, and have an amazing week!

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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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Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a compact high-performance mini PC designed for users who require a balance of processing power, AI capabilities, and expandability. Featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, it integrates 12 cores, 24 threads, and an AI NPU capable of up to 80 TOPS, making it suitable for AI-assisted workloads, virtualization, and content creation. The inclusion of AMD Radeon 890M integrated graphics allows for moderate gaming and GPU-accelerated tasks, while OcuLink support provides the option to attach an external GPU for additional performance. The system features three M.2 NVMe slots, dual USB4 ports, and dual 2.5GbE Ethernet, offering flexible storage and connectivity options. With a 140W internal power supply, the AI X1 eliminates the need for an external power brick, reducing cable clutter. Cooling and power efficiency have been addressed, with idle power consumption averaging between 19W and 23W and higher workloads drawing around 60W at 50% – does this sound like a min PC hybrid to a desktop solution? Let’s discuss the X1’s hardware, performance, AI capabilities, and expansion potential, assessing how well it meets the needs of AI developers, content creators, and general users seeking a high-performance compact system.

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Quick Conclusion

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro offers a strong balance of performance, expandability, and AI acceleration in a compact form factor. It is suitable for AI-driven workloads, mid-range gaming, video processing, and professional applications. The integrated Radeon 890M GPU provides acceptable performance for gaming and AI-assisted tasks, but for more demanding graphical workloads, the inclusion of OcuLink allows users to connect an external GPU for greater flexibility. While the system includes high-speed storage options and multiple connectivity features, the lack of 10GbE networking may limit its usefulness in high-bandwidth data transfer scenarios. However, users can leverage Wi-Fi 7 or OcuLink adapters to expand networking capabilities if necessary. Overall, the Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a versatile mini PC with a focus on AI performance, storage expandability, and modular GPU upgrades. It is best suited for users who require a compact but powerful system for workstation tasks, AI processing, and moderate gaming, with the potential for external GPU scaling if additional performance is needed.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 10/10

PERFORMANCE - 10/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.8

PROS

Powerful CPU especially for a mini PC– The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is fast and handles demanding tasks well.
AI Acceleration – Built-in AI processor speeds up tasks like image recognition and automation.
Expandable Storage – Three M.2 SSD slots for fast and flexible storage upgrades.
External GPU Support – OCuLink allows for a full-sized GPU to boost graphics performance.
Fast USB4 Ports – Two high-speed USB4 ports for fast storage and external devices.
Good Cooling System – Dual fans and metal heatsinks keep temperatures in check.
Strong Connectivity – Wi-Fi 7 and dual 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking.
No External Power Brick – Built-in 140W power supply keeps cables minimal.
Comes with Windows 11 – Ready to use out of the box.
VESA Mount Included – Can be attached to the back of a monitor or wall for space-saving.

CONS

Only Features Microsoft Co-Pilot out the box – Hard/impossible to easily switch to ChatGPT or DeepSeek etc
Limited OCuLink Compatibility – External GPU and storage upgrades require specific hardware.
Weird PSU Placement – The power supply sits above the SSD slots, which might affect cooling.
Price - Pricing is a little mixed at launch store-to-store

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Minisforum AI X1 Pro Hardware Specifications:

The initial specifications of the Minisforum AI X1 Pro Mini PC will differ slightly depending on where you buy and the configuration you choose (i.e the base level memory and storage). Additionally, the system will always arrive with Windows 11 (officially licenced) preinstalled on an SSD in one of the M.2 NVMe Gen 4×4 slots.

Component	Specification
Processor	AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (12 Cores / 24 Threads, Zen 5 + Zen 5c)
Base Clock	2.0 GHz (Zen 5), 2.0 GHz (Zen 5c)
Boost Clock	Up to 5.1 GHz (Zen 5), Up to 3.3 GHz (Zen 5c)
TDP	28W (Configurable 15-54W)
L2 Cache	12 MB
L3 Cache	24 MB
Memory	Dual-channel DDR5 (Up to 96GB at 5600MHz, 2 SODIMM Slots)
Included Memory	64GB (2x 32GB Crucial DDR5 SODIMM modules)
ECC Support	No ECC support
Storage (Internal)	3x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 NVMe slots – 2x Gen4 x4 (8GB/s), 1x Gen4 x1 (2GB/s)
Storage (Expansion)	Supports NVMe RAID (0,1), External USB4 SSDs, OcuLink PCIe devices
GPU	AMD Radeon 890M (16 cores, 2900 MHz)
AI Engine	AMD Ryzen AI Engine (80 TOPS total, 50 TOPS NPU)
Networking	2x 2.5GbE Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3
Display Support	4 Monitors, HDMI 2.1, DP 2.1, USB4 DP Alt Mode
Max Resolution	8K @ 60Hz, 4K @ 144Hz, 1080p @ 600Hz
USB Ports	2x USB4 (40Gbps), 2x USB 3.2, 2x USB 2.0
OcuLink Port	Yes, supports external PCIe devices (up to full-size GPUs)
Power Supply	140W Internal PSU (No external brick)
Cooling System	Metal chassis with active cooling & heat dissipation
Audio Features	Dual noise-canceling microphones, built-in stereo speakers
Security Features	Fingerprint scanner (Touch Login), AI-driven security tools
Mounting	VESA mount included for monitor mounting
Size & Weight	7” x 7” x 1.9”, ~3 lbs (~1.5 kg)

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Design

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro features a compact, square-shaped chassis, slightly more symmetrical than other models in its category. The metal and high-quality plastic construction provides a balance of durability and heat dissipation. Ventilation grilles are positioned along the sides and top to facilitate airflow. The system also includes a built-in 140W power supply unit (PSU), eliminating the need for an external power brick, reducing cable clutter, and making it easier to mount or position on a desk.

The front panel houses a power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor, allowing for biometric authentication. There is also a USB4 port, a USB 3.2 port, an audio jack, and an SD card slot for additional storage. The rear panel features multiple USB ports, dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, an HDMI output, a DisplayPort output, an OcuLink port, and a USB 2.0 port. These connectivity options provide compatibility with a range of peripherals, storage solutions, and external displays.

A key feature of the design is its internal 140W PSU, an uncommon inclusion in mini PCs. This allows for direct AC power input using a standard two-pin connector. While the PSU is custom-designed and not easily replaceable with off-the-shelf alternatives, it contributes to the unit’s compact and cable-free design.

The cooling system is designed to manage heat efficiently, with airflow distributed across the chassis. The fan noise varies based on workload, but the thermal management system keeps temperatures under control, even under sustained usage.

Power consumption varies depending on workload. In idle conditions, the system draws between 19W and 23W, which is higher than most entry-level mini PCs due to its high-performance hardware. Under moderate load, including CPU and GPU utilization, power usage rises to 59W to 63W. While this consumption is significant for a compact system, it aligns with the performance level it delivers. The internal PSU ensures stable power delivery without requiring an external adapter.

During extended testing, thermal performance remained stable. Heat distribution was well-managed, with no significant thermal spikes even under stress. When measured with a thermal camera, the heat output was lower than other nearby high-performance networking devices in the test environment. The fan system adjusts dynamically based on workload, ensuring consistent operation without excessive noise.

The retail package includes the Minisforum AI X1 Pro unit, a power cable, a VESA mounting bracket, and documentation. The VESA mount allows users to attach the system to the back of a monitor or a wall for space efficiency. The package does not include a keyboard, mouse, or pre-installed operating system, meaning users will need to supply their own peripherals and software. The combination of a built-in PSU, multiple I/O options, and compact design makes it a practical option for users seeking a high-performance mini PC with minimal cable clutter.

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Ports and Connections

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro includes multiple high-speed and legacy connectivity options across its front and rear panels, catering to a variety of use cases. The system supports USB4, USB 3.2, USB 2.0, Ethernet, HDMI, DisplayPort, an SD card slot, and OcuLink, making it a versatile device for professional workloads, gaming, and AI-assisted tasks. These ports enable peripheral expansion, high-speed data transfers, networking, and external GPU connectivity, providing a range of possibilities for users who require flexible hardware configurations. The placement of these connections ensures easy access to frequently used ports on the front, while the rear panel accommodates more permanent connections for external monitors, networking, and high-bandwidth storage solutions.

The dual USB4 ports, located on the front and rear, are among the most notable features, delivering up to 40Gbps of bandwidth. This allows for high-speed external storage, video output, and docking station compatibility. During testing, a USB4 external SSD achieved over 3GB/s in read speeds, confirming that the system fully supports the high-bandwidth capabilities of USB4. Write speeds were more dependent on the SSD’s own specifications, averaging around 1.8GB/s, aligning with expected performance for a drive of that type. The USB4 ports also allow for eGPU expansion, enabling the connection of an external graphics card via an OcuLink-to-USB4 adapter, though performance in this configuration may not match that of a direct OcuLink connection.

For wired networking, the system includes dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, offering a step up from standard 1GbE connections. This provides improved network throughput, lower latency for online applications, and better support for local file transfers and virtualized environments.

Testing in a peer-to-peer direct connection resulted in speeds averaging 2.35Gbps, demonstrating reliable real-world performance. While 2.5GbE is sufficient for most users, it may not be ideal for those requiring higher bandwidth network-attached storage (NAS) solutions or extensive multi-user workloads.

Wireless connectivity is handled by Wi-Fi 7, which supports the 6GHz spectrum and 320MHz channel width, providing increased speeds and reduced interference compared to previous wireless standards. When paired with a compatible Wi-Fi 7 router, the system achieved peak throughput of over 2Gbps, depending on environmental factors such as network congestion and signal strength.

Wi-Fi 7 allows for low-latency wireless networking, making it a viable option for high-speed transfers in environments where wired networking is impractical. Wireless performance remained stable across multiple test scenarios, demonstrating consistent connectivity and minimal packet loss.

The video output options include HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1, allowing for multi-monitor setups with support for up to four simultaneous displays. The system can handle 4K at 240Hz, 1440p at 480Hz, and 8K at 60Hz, ensuring compatibility with high-refresh-rate monitors and high-resolution displays. Adaptive Sync and HDR support improve overall display performance, reducing screen tearing and improving color accuracy. During testing, dual monitor configurations using DisplayPort and HDMI simultaneously worked without issue, delivering consistent video output with no visible latency.

A key expansion feature is the OcuLink port, which provides direct PCIe-based external device connectivity, offering low-latency, high-bandwidth expansion options. In testing, an OcuLink NVMe SSD enclosure was detected immediately, allowing for storage expansion without compromising performance. The system also supported an external GPU connected via OcuLink, which significantly improved gaming performance, particularly in titles utilizing ray tracing.

The external GPU used in testing was the Minisforum MGA1, an eGPU enclosure featuring a NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU, PCIe Gen 4 connectivity, and dedicated cooling for high-performance graphics processing. With the MGA1 connected, games that previously struggled with ray tracing saw substantial performance improvements, demonstrating the viability of OcuLink as a direct GPU expansion solution.

The USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB 2.0 ports serve as additional expansion options, providing 10Gbps and 480Mbps transfer speeds, respectively. While USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers sufficient bandwidth for external drives and accessories, the USB 2.0 port is more suited to lower-priority peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and older external devices that do not require high-speed connectivity. Testing showed that USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports delivered consistent performance when used with high-speed external storage, achieving expected speeds for 10Gbps-rated SSDs.

Overall, the port selection provides a balance between modern and legacy interfaces, ensuring compatibility with a range of peripherals and expansion options. The inclusion of USB4, OcuLink, dual Ethernet, and multiple display outputs allows for high-speed data transfer, wired and wireless networking, and scalable performance upgrades. The lack of 10GbE may be a limitation for certain users, but the OcuLink port compensates by allowing direct PCIe expansion. With reliable wired and wireless networking, flexible video output options, and full USB4 bandwidth support, the Minisforum AI X1 Pro provides strong connectivity for a range of professional and consumer use cases.

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Internal Hardware

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro features a compact yet high-performance internal hardware configuration, designed to balance processing power, cooling efficiency, and storage scalability within a small form factor.

At its core, the system is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a 12-core, 24-thread processor with a hybrid 4x Zen 5 and 8x Zen 5c architecture.

This CPU supports clock speeds up to 5.1GHz, with a default TDP of 28W and a configurable range of 15W to 54W, allowing users to adjust power consumption based on workload requirements. Integrated into the processor is the AMD Radeon 890M GPU, which operates at 2.9GHz and supports modern gaming, AI workloads, and media processing.

The system memory consists of two SODIMM slots, allowing for expandable RAM configurations. The reviewed model included 64GB of DDR5-5600MHz memory, with the option to upgrade to a maximum of 96GB.

Unlike some mini PCs, the RAM is user-replaceable rather than soldered to the motherboard, offering future-proofing for users who may require higher capacity memory. The lack of ECC (Error-Correcting Code) support is a limitation for users requiring data integrity features, particularly in professional environments such as virtualization or enterprise workloads.

Storage is handled via three M.2 NVMe slots, all operating on PCIe 4.0 architecture.

Two of these slots run at PCIe 4.0 x4, providing 8GB/s of potential bandwidth, while the third slot operates at PCIe 4.0 x1, limiting its performance to 2GB/s.

This configuration allows for a mix of high-speed and archival storage, with the x1 slot being more suited for less frequently accessed data. During testing, Gen 4 NVMe SSDs in the primary slots achieved full bandwidth speeds, while the third slot demonstrated the expected performance limitations.

Cooling is managed by an internal metal L-shaped cooling system, which integrates two silent operational fans. The primary fan is located above the piped CPU cooling solution, which consists of a metal heatsink with multiple heat vents to improve thermal dissipation.

This cooling system ensures sustained performance under load, preventing thermal throttling during intensive processing tasks. The second fan is positioned over the Wi-Fi card and adjacent to the internal PSU, ensuring airflow distribution across multiple components.

The internal PSU is located directly above the M.2 NVMe slots, an unconventional placement compared to traditional desktop designs. This layout reduces the need for an external power brick, making cable management more streamlined. The 140W internal power supply is a proprietary design, meaning replacement may be more complex than standard off-the-shelf units.

Despite this, the integration of an internal PSU contributes to a cleaner workspace, avoiding bulky external adapters typically associated with compact systems. Nevertheless, the PSU living DIRECTLY above the m.2 NVMe SSD bays is kinda weird. It further exacerbates the need for the SSD bays to need m.2 heatsinks to allow heat dissipation, into the fan 5-6cm away.

In terms of noise output, the cooling fans remained quiet during idle and low-power tasks, with only minor increases in noise levels under high-load scenarios. The thermal camera testing indicated that the system’s heat distribution was well-managed, with the warmest areas located around the CPU and PSU exhaust vents. The Wi-Fi card and SSD slots remained within safe temperature ranges, confirming the effectiveness of the airflow design.

The internal hardware design of the Minisforum AI X1 Pro prioritizes performance, efficient cooling, and storage flexibility. While the PSU placement above the NVMe drives is unusual, it does not appear to cause excessive heat accumulation. The combination of a high-performance processor, scalable RAM and storage, and a well-managed cooling solution ensures that the system is capable of handling a range of demanding workloads, from AI-assisted tasks to content creation and gaming.

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Performance and Testing

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro integrates the AMD Radeon 890M GPU, which operates at 2.9GHz and features 16 compute units. While it lacks the power of a dedicated high-end GPU, it is capable of handling mid-tier gaming and graphical workloads. During testing, Call of Duty: Warzone was run on high settings, achieving playable frame rates without an external GPU. Performance remained stable, though demanding titles with ray tracing and high-resolution textures exhibited performance limitations. The system supports external GPU expansion via OCuLink, and testing with the Minisforum MGA1 eGPU—equipped with an AMD Radeon 7600M XT (32 compute units, 8GB GDDR6 memory, 120W TDP)—significantly enhanced graphical capabilities, particularly for ray tracing and high-resolution gaming.

The OCuLink expansion port enables a direct PCIe-level connection to external GPUs, providing higher bandwidth than Thunderbolt-based solutions. When using the MGA1 eGPU, performance improvements were immediately evident, with games running at higher frame rates and improved graphical fidelity.

This configuration allows users to scale graphical performance without replacing the base system, making it an efficient option for users requiring additional power for AI tasks, rendering, or high-end gaming.

However, OCuLink accessories are currently less common than standard eGPU enclosures, which may limit hardware compatibility options.

In terms of using the Minisforum X1 Pro in more NAS deployment utilities, the testing is still in progress (and I will make a separate video and article soon), but early testing has been very positive. Uutilized half of the available threads as vCPUs in 12 Windwos 11 VMs (each with 2GB Memory) and they ran great (at that point, my own recording machine and the UI itself became the only limitation.

Likewise, with PLEX Media server, I was able to stream 8x 1080p 100Mb (bitrate) video files at once without stressing the CPU, then 10x 4K 60Mb – still positive. Finally, I went into 8K media (something that PLEX itself is poorly optimized for) and streamed 5x 8K High end files at once (mixed native and on-the-fly conversions). In all cases, the Minisforum X1 Pro worked like a charm!

The rest of the performance benchmarks on the individual m.2 slots are still undergoing testing, as well as connecting a 4x M.2 NVMe SSD expansion device from Aoostar via Oculink.

These will be published on the YouTube channel soon.

AI processing is a core feature of the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, which boasts up to 80 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) and a dedicated 50 TOPS NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for AI-assisted tasks. Benchmarks using Geekbench AI indicated strong performance in OpenVINO-based workloads, with a 5024 overall AI score.

Image-related AI tasks, including image classification, object detection, and segmentation, demonstrated higher inference speeds on OpenVINO compared to ONNX, with quantized processing delivering the best overall efficiency. AI-driven tasks such as style transfer, depth estimation, and pose estimation showed notable acceleration compared to traditional CPU-only inference. Testing with ONNX-based AI models resulted in a lower AI benchmark score of 3614, reflecting reduced optimization for this framework. Despite this, the system still delivered usable performance for machine learning inference and AI-based enhancements, though OpenVINO remained the preferred framework for faster execution times and more efficient workload handling. AI-assisted image enhancement and real-time video analysis tasks performed well, making the system suitable for workflow acceleration in content creation and automated AI-based applications.

Category	Specification
Operating System	Windows 11 Pro (64-bit) (Linux support: Ubuntu, RHEL)
CPU Architecture	AMD Zen 5 / Zen 5c (TSMC 4nm FinFET)
PCIe Support	PCIe 4.0 (16 lanes total, usable for NVMe, OcuLink, USB4 SSDs)
Native USB Support	2x USB4 (40Gbps), 3x USB 3.2 (10Gbps), 3x USB 2.0
Max Memory	96GB DDR5 (dual-channel, 5600MHz)
Storage Performance	Up to 7,000 MB/s (PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs)
AI Engine	80 TOPS total (50 TOPS NPU)
Geekbench AI Score (OpenVINO)	5024
Geekbench AI Score (ONNX)	3614
Power Consumption (Idle)	19-23W
Power Consumption (Load)	59-63W (CPU & GPU at 50% load)
Cooling & Thermal Performance	Efficient airflow, low thermal footprint (lower heat than UniFi Wi-Fi 7 AP)
AI Performance Metrics (Benchmark Results)
Image Classification (SP)	OpenVINO: 549 IPS, ONNX: 512 IPS
Object Detection (Q)	OpenVINO: 7400 at 593 IPS
Pose Estimation (SP)	OpenVINO: 7072 at 8.25 IPS
Style Transfer (AI Filters)	OpenVINO: 72K IPS, ONNX: 30K IPS
Super Resolution (Upscaling)	OpenVINO: 3969 IPS, ONNX: 2235 IPS
Machine Translation (AI Text Processing)	OpenVINO: 4351 at 74.9 IPS
Gaming Performance
Call of Duty Warzone (Native, No eGPU)	Playable at High Settings
Cyberpunk 2077	Limited without eGPU, decent with OcuLink external GPU
External GPU (OcuLink, eGPU tested with Minforum eGPU)	Massive improvement in ray tracing performance
Best Use Cases
AI-powered Video & Image Processing	Great for 4K upscaling, AI-style transfer, motion tracking
AI-assisted Creative Workflows	Optimized for Adobe AI tools, DaVinci Resolve AI features
Real-time AI Automation & Security	Object recognition, face detection, smart surveillance
AI-assisted Audio & Text Transcription	Speech-to-text, real-time subtitle generation
Gaming (Casual to AAA, with eGPU Support)	Decent native performance, great with eGPU via OcuLink
Limitations
✘ Not Ideal for LLM Model Training	Lacks high-end CUDA acceleration for AI model training
✘ ONNX Performance is Weaker	Better results using OpenVINO for AI inference
✘ No Built-in 10GbE	Only 2x 2.5GbE, no native 10GbE option
Connectivity & Expansion
eGPU Support	OcuLink, USB4 (Supports external RTX 4090 or similar GPUs)
Max Displays	4 Monitors (4K/8K multi-monitor setup)
External USB4 Storage	Achieved 3GB/s read speeds (USB4 SSD tested)

The X1 delivers capable performance in graphical processing, AI workloads, and high-speed storage applications. While the integrated GPU is suitable for mid-range tasks, external GPU expansion significantly enhances performance. AI capabilities, particularly with OpenVINO, demonstrate strong inference speeds for image processing, object detection, and machine learning inference. Storage performance meets expectations, with Gen 4 speeds available on the primary slots and USB4 providing high-speed external storage options. These features position the system as a versatile solution for power users, AI developers, and content creators. But keep your expectations realistic and in perspective for a mini PC nonetheless!!!

13/02/25 Update from Minisforum, re: AI local Deployment:

Minisforum AI X1 Pro Review – Conclusion and Verdict

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a compact but powerful mini PC designed for users seeking a balance of CPU performance, AI acceleration, and expandability. It features the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which delivers strong multi-core performance with 12 cores, 24 threads, and a 50 TOPS NPU for AI workloads. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M GPU provides adequate graphical performance for mid-tier gaming and GPU-accelerated applications, though it benefits significantly from external GPU expansion via OCuLink. With support for up to three M.2 NVMe drives, dual USB4 ports, and dual 2.5GbE networking, the system is versatile in both storage and connectivity. While the lack of native 10GbE may be a drawback for high-bandwidth network users, the Wi-Fi 7 support provides a wireless alternative with high-speed connectivity options.

In terms of real-world performance, the system delivers strong results in AI-driven applications, particularly those optimized for the OpenVINO framework, where it achieved higher inference speeds compared to ONNX-based workloads. Gaming performance is reasonable on the integrated GPU, but ray tracing and high-end graphical tasks require an external GPU, such as the Minisforum MGA1 eGPU with an AMD Radeon 7600M XT, which was tested and demonstrated significant performance improvements. The internal 140W PSU eliminates cable clutter, but its placement above the M.2 slots is unconventional and may require additional SSD heatsinks for efficient cooling. Thermal management is well-executed, with a dual-fan system and metal heatsink design keeping temperatures stable during sustained workloads.

The Minisforum AI X1 Pro is best suited for AI developers, content creators, and users requiring a small yet powerful workstation. It provides AI acceleration, high-speed storage, and expandable graphics options, making it a versatile hybrid between a mini PC and a desktop-class solution. While not ideal for intensive LLM training or high-end gaming without an external GPU, it excels in AI-assisted workflows, video processing, and multi-tasking applications. The inclusion of OCuLink for PCIe expansion allows for long-term scalability, giving users the option to upgrade GPU or storage performance as needed. For those seeking a high-performance compact system with AI processing capabilities, the Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a capable and well-rounded option.

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Why NAS Drives are NOT for Everyone – 5 Reasons You Do Not Need a NAS

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is often promoted as the ideal solution for data management, offering advantages like local control, redundancy, and flexible access. However, while NAS has many benefits, it is not the right choice for everyone. Depending on individual needs, alternatives such as cloud storage or Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) may provide a simpler, more cost-effective, or more practical solution. This article explores five key reasons why a NAS may not be the best choice for certain users. From the convenience of cloud storage to the high upfront costs of NAS devices, we will break down the potential drawbacks and alternative solutions that might better fit specific use cases. Understanding these factors can help users make an informed decision about their storage needs.

Disclaimer – NAS devices provide a robust and flexible storage solution, but they are not necessary for all users. Those with simpler storage needs—such as single-device backups or direct file access—may find that a Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) device better meets their requirements. External hard drives and SSDs offer straightforward, cost-effective alternatives without the complexity of network management. Cloud storage remains a convenient and accessible option, particularly for those who need remote access without dealing with hardware setup. While it comes with long-term costs and data security considerations, cloud services offer ease of use and automation that may be preferable for some users. Additionally, a hybrid NAS and cloud approach can provide the best of both worlds, allowing users to maintain local storage while leveraging cloud redundancy for added backup security and accessibility. Choosing the right storage solution depends on specific use cases, technical expertise, and long-term data management goals.

1. The Convenience of Cloud Storage is Unquestionable

One of the primary reasons a NAS may not be necessary for some users is the convenience of cloud storage. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and iCloud offer instant accessibility, making it easy to store, sync, and retrieve files from any internet-connected device. Unlike NAS, which requires setup, configuration, and ongoing maintenance, cloud storage is designed to be user-friendly. Users can simply sign up, upload files, and access them from anywhere, without needing to worry about network configurations, remote access tunnels, or firewall adjustments. This simplicity makes cloud storage an appealing option for users who want a hassle-free experience without managing hardware.

Beyond ease of use, cloud services are also optimized for redundancy and failover protection, ensuring that data remains safe and accessible even if hardware failures occur on the provider’s end. Large-scale cloud platforms have multiple data centers worldwide, meaning that even in the event of a regional outage, files remain available from alternative locations. Cloud storage is particularly advantageous for those who travel frequently or work remotely, as accessing a NAS over the internet can introduce latency, security challenges, and connectivity issues. For example, transferring large files to a NAS while on the road may require complex VPN configurations and reliable internet access, whereas cloud storage offers seamless access without any additional setup. This makes cloud storage a more practical choice for users who prioritize mobility and convenience over local ownership.

Example of the complexity of a NAS to Cloud Sync:

2. Simplicity of Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) for Single Users vs NAS is Indisputable

For individuals who primarily work from a single device, a NAS may be unnecessary and even overcomplicated. A Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) device—such as an external hard drive, SSD, or even a RAID-configured DAS—provides a more straightforward and often more cost-effective solution. Unlike NAS, which requires a network connection and some level of system administration, a DAS device simply connects directly to a computer via USB, Thunderbolt, or eSATA and is ready to use instantly. This plug-and-play functionality makes DAS ideal for users who just need additional storage or a backup solution without any complexity.

DAS also offers direct hardware integration with professional applications, making it a preferred choice for photographers, video editors, and graphic designers. Many creative professionals rely on high-speed DAS devices because they provide lower latency and faster data transfer rates than a network-based NAS. A high-speed Thunderbolt RAID array, for example, can provide much faster read and write speeds than a NAS connected via 1GbE or even 2.5GbE networking. Additionally, for users who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly, physically shipping an external drive remains a viable and often faster option than uploading terabytes of data to a NAS remotely. If a user primarily works from one computer and does not need network-based file access, a DAS setup can be a much more practical and efficient choice than investing in a NAS.

3. Cloud and DAS = Lower Power Consumption and Long-Term Operating Costs

One often overlooked factor when deciding on a NAS is its ongoing power consumption. Unlike DAS devices, which only require power when in use, a NAS typically runs 24/7, constantly consuming electricity even when idle. While modern NAS devices offer power-saving features such as scheduled shutdowns and sleep modes, they still draw more power than a simple external hard drive. This can be a concern for users in areas with high electricity costs, those who live in mobile homes, or people who rely on solar or backup power sources. Over the course of a year, the difference in power consumption between a NAS and a simple external drive can add up, making it an important consideration for budget-conscious users.

Example of Power Consumption of a 6-Bay NAS with 6x HDD and 2x SSD (Intel N305 i3 CPU):

Beyond electricity costs, there’s also the issue of long-term maintenance. Hard drives inside a NAS are designed to run continuously, meaning they wear out faster compared to drives that are powered on only when needed. Each mechanical hard drive has a limited number of operational hours before failure becomes more likely. In contrast, an external hard drive that is only used periodically for backups can last much longer. Additionally, NAS devices require ongoing software updates, security patches, and general monitoring to function optimally. For users who do not want to deal with the responsibility of maintaining a dedicated storage system, a NAS may be more trouble than it’s worth, especially when compared to simpler alternatives like external hard drives or cloud storage.

Example of Noise Level of a 4x HDD and 2x SSD NAS (Lincstation S1 NAS):

4. Cloud Mean Avoiding Vendor Lock-in and Data Migration Challenges

NAS systems operate as full-fledged computing devices with their own proprietary operating systems, which can make migrating data between different NAS brands or platforms a challenge. For example, if a user sets up a Synology NAS and later wants to switch to a QNAP or another brand, they may encounter significant roadblocks in moving their existing file structures, metadata, and system settings. Unlike traditional external storage solutions that use universal formats like NTFS, exFAT, or APFS, NAS devices often use specialized file systems optimized for their specific ecosystems. This means that simply swapping out drives between NAS brands is not always possible without extensive data transfers and reconfigurations.

In contrast, DAS devices and cloud storage solutions provide more flexibility for users who may need to migrate their data in the future. A USB hard drive can be connected to any computer with minimal effort, and cloud services typically offer built-in tools to migrate data between providers. Additionally, NAS users often rely on specific applications and configurations tied to their system, making it more difficult to transition to a different storage solution later. While there are workarounds—such as using standard file transfer protocols like SMB or FTP—these solutions require extra time and effort, which may not be practical for users who need a simple and easily portable storage option. For those who value long-term flexibility, avoiding NAS vendor lock-in may be a more prudent choice.

5. NAS = High Initial Costs and Uncertain Return on Investment for Some

Perhaps the most significant reason some users should avoid a NAS is the cost. Compared to external storage solutions, NAS devices are considerably more expensive, especially when factoring in the price of both the NAS enclosure and the hard drives required to populate it. Even budget NAS devices start at a few hundred dollars, and higher-end models with advanced features can cost well over $1,000, not including the drives. When comparing cost per terabyte, NAS drives are generally more expensive than external USB drives due to their enhanced durability and NAS-optimized firmware. For users who do not need advanced features like RAID redundancy, Docker applications, or network-wide accessibility, the extra cost of a NAS may not be justifiable.

Beyond the initial purchase, users must also consider the long-term costs associated with NAS ownership. Hard drives wear out over time and will eventually need to be replaced, adding to the overall expense. Additionally, while NAS devices provide a wide range of powerful features, many users may not fully utilize them. If someone only needs basic storage and backup capabilities, a NAS might be an unnecessary investment, and they may be better off with a simple DAS setup or cloud-based storage solution. Before committing to a NAS, potential buyers should carefully evaluate whether they will take full advantage of its features or if a more affordable and straightforward alternative would better suit their needs.

While NAS devices offer powerful features and advantages for data management, they are not always the most practical option. For users who prioritize convenience, cloud storage may be a better fit. Those who work primarily from a single device may find a Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) setup more efficient. Additionally, factors such as power consumption, vendor lock-in, and long-term costs should all be carefully considered before investing in a NAS. Ultimately, the best storage solution depends on individual requirements. A NAS can be a great investment for those who need centralized, multi-user access and advanced functionality, but it is not the only option. Evaluating storage needs based on cost, performance, and ease of use will help determine whether a NAS is the right fit or if an alternative solution would be more suitable.

Recommended NAS Solutions Based on Data Storage Needs:

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You NEED A NAS Drive – And Here Is Why

In today’s digital world, data storage plays a crucial role in both personal and professional environments. Many individuals and businesses rely on cloud storage for convenience, but it’s not always the best option. While cloud services provide accessibility and automation, they come with limitations, including long-term costs, security concerns, and restrictions on data ownership. For those who value control over their files, a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device offers a compelling alternative. This article explores five key reasons why a NAS can be a better choice for data management compared to cloud storage. From total data ownership to long-term cost savings, we examine how NAS devices provide more flexibility, security, and performance for those looking to store and access their data efficiently.

Disclaimer!

While NAS devices offer significant advantages in terms of data ownership, security, and long-term cost efficiency, they are not the ideal solution for everyone. Users with simpler storage needs, such as those requiring direct, high-speed access to a single device, may find that a Direct Attached Storage (DAS) setup better suits their requirements without the additional complexity of network management.

Additionally, cloud storage remains a convenient and accessible option, particularly for those who need a quick and automated solution without the upfront cost of dedicated hardware. Cloud services provide seamless access from anywhere and can be a great short-term or supplementary storage method. For many users, a hybrid approach—combining NAS with cloud storage—strikes the right balance. This setup allows users to enjoy the accessibility of the cloud while benefiting from the control and security of a NAS, particularly when implementing structured backup routines. Each storage solution has its strengths, and the best choice depends on individual needs and use cases.

1. A NAS Server = Total Data Ownership

Owning a NAS (Network Attached Storage) means complete control over your data, something that cloud storage simply cannot provide. When you use cloud services, you are essentially handing over your files to a third party, entrusting them to manage and store your data. While this is convenient, it also introduces several risks, including data breaches, sudden policy changes, or service discontinuations. Many cloud providers state in their terms of service that they reserve the right to scan, analyze, or even remove content that violates their policies, which can be vague and subject to interpretation. A NAS eliminates this uncertainty by giving you full ownership—your data resides physically in your home or office, and no one but you determines what happens to it.

Beyond ownership, NAS systems offer better control over data distribution. You decide where backups are stored, how often they occur, and who has access. This is especially important for photographers, videographers, and businesses that require compliance with strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA. For example, a small business handling client records can store sensitive customer data on an encrypted NAS, ensuring compliance without relying on cloud providers that may store files in different jurisdictions. Another key advantage is preventing data from being used to train AI models or sold to advertisers—something that is an increasing concern with major tech companies. Owning a NAS ensures that your data is truly private, unmonitored, and secure from external influences.

2. A NAS Means Bespoke Security Settings

Cloud providers implement security measures, but these are designed for general use, meaning they cannot be customized to fit specific needs. While cloud services offer encryption, user authentication, and basic access controls, they often lack advanced security features that enterprises or tech-savvy users require. With a NAS, you can tailor security settings at a granular level, ensuring that only the right people can access specific files and folders. You can configure user authentication with two-factor authentication (2FA), enforce strict password policies, and even limit access based on IP addresses or device types. For example, you can allow a work computer to access files but block access from unknown mobile devices, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.

Additionally, NAS security extends beyond simple user access. If you integrate a NAS with a managed switch and firewall, you can create network segmentation, restricting access to only certain parts of your infrastructure. Air-gapping—a security practice that physically or digitally isolates a device from external networks—can be used to create periods where the NAS is completely inaccessible, making data leaks or cyberattacks virtually impossible. Scheduled access times add another layer of protection, ensuring that even if credentials are compromised, unauthorized users cannot gain entry outside of designated periods. NAS devices also provide real-time security alerts that can be customized to notify administrators about unusual activity, such as multiple failed login attempts, unauthorized file transfers, or new device connections. This kind of tailored security is simply not possible with generic cloud services, making a NAS the superior choice for those who prioritize privacy and control.

3. A NAS Can Mean True Deletion When Needed

Deleting data from cloud storage is not as straightforward as it seems. Most cloud services use a soft-delete approach, meaning that when you delete a file, it isn’t immediately erased. Instead, it is moved to a trash folder where it remains for 30 to 90 days before being automatically purged. Even after this period, many cloud providers create multiple copies of your files across their servers for redundancy, making it difficult to ensure that your data is completely gone. In some cases, metadata or indexed portions of your files may still exist within the provider’s infrastructure, and depending on the terms of service, your data may even be retained for analytics or AI training.

With a NAS, true deletion is possible because you have full control over your data. When you delete a file, it is removed from your storage pool, and if you want absolute certainty, you can use secure erasure tools to overwrite the data multiple times, making recovery impossible. Many NAS systems include built-in data-wiping features that follow Department of Defense (DoD) 5220.22-M standards, ensuring complete removal of sensitive information. For highly sensitive data, you can physically destroy storage drives—a practice commonly used by corporations and government agencies. Some companies specialize in secure drive destruction, ensuring that data cannot be recovered by any means. For personal use, simply reformatting or physically damaging a hard drive provides an additional layer of security. This level of control over data deletion is something that cloud storage cannot match, making NAS the ideal choice for those who need true data removal capabilities.

4. NAS vs Cloud = Cost Savings in the Long Term

At first glance, cloud storage seems like an affordable option. Many services offer free storage up to a certain limit, and paid plans start as low as a few dollars per month. However, the long-term costs can quickly add up. Subscription-based storage models require continuous payments, meaning that over several years, you could spend far more on cloud storage than you would on a one-time NAS purchase. Additionally, most cloud providers offer tiered pricing, meaning that as your storage needs grow, your monthly fees increase significantly. Businesses and content creators with terabytes of data often find themselves paying hundreds of dollars annually just to store their files.

Another hidden cost of cloud storage is data retrieval, known as egress fees. Many cloud providers limit how much data you can download within a given timeframe, and if you exceed this limit, you are charged extra. For example, Amazon S3 and Google Cloud charge egress fees that can quickly add up when transferring large amounts of data. In contrast, a NAS has no such limitations—once you own the device, you can access and transfer files as much as you want without paying additional fees.

If you plan to store data for more than three to five years, a NAS will almost always be the more cost-effective choice. Even budget NAS devices with included hard drives, such as the $199 models with 4TB of storage, offer better long-term value than many cloud subscriptions. Investing in a NAS early ensures that you avoid rising costs while maintaining full control over your data.

5. A NAS (Almost Always) Means Performance and Speed Benefits

Cloud storage is convenient for remote access, but it is heavily dependent on internet speeds, network congestion, and provider limitations. Upload and download speeds are constrained by your ISP, meaning that large file transfers can take hours or even days. Most cloud services also impose bandwidth limits or throttling policies, reducing transfer speeds during peak hours. For users who need fast access to large files—such as video editors, photographers, or IT professionals—cloud performance is simply not sufficient.

A NAS, on the other hand, offers significantly better performance, particularly for local access. Even basic NAS systems with gigabit Ethernet can achieve speeds of 100 MB/s (megabytes per second), far exceeding most cloud transfer rates. Higher-end models support 2.5GbE, 5GbE, or even 10GbE connections, allowing speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s—nearly 100 times faster than standard cloud storage. For example, a team of video editors working with 4K footage can stream and edit files directly from a NAS without any noticeable lag, something that would be impossible with cloud storage due to latency issues. NAS devices also support SSD caching, RAID configurations for redundancy, and multiple simultaneous users, ensuring high performance even under heavy workloads.

Another advantage of NAS is its ability to function as a local media server. Unlike cloud services that require constant internet access and may throttle streaming quality, a NAS can store and stream high-resolution content locally without buffering. This makes it ideal for home theaters, Plex servers, and shared family storage. Businesses can also benefit from NAS performance by hosting internal file-sharing platforms, reducing reliance on slow or expensive cloud-based collaboration tools. In short, NAS outperforms cloud storage in every aspect of speed and efficiency, making it the best choice for users who demand high-speed, reliable access to their files.

While cloud storage remains a popular choice, it is not without drawbacks. Issues such as long-term expenses, limited security customization, and potential data retention concerns make it less than ideal for users who require full control over their files. A NAS, by contrast, provides a dedicated, high-performance storage solution that allows users to take ownership of their data, manage access securely, and benefit from predictable costs over time. Ultimately, whether a NAS or cloud storage is the right choice depends on individual needs. Those looking for convenience and automatic backups may still find value in cloud services, while users who prioritize security, cost efficiency, and local performance will likely benefit from investing in a NAS. Understanding these differences can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their data storage strategy.

Recommended NAS Solutions Based on Data Storage Needs:

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Review of the CWWK x86 P6 Mini SSD NAS Review

The CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS is a compact, all-flash server aimed at home lab enthusiasts and small businesses seeking high-speed storage in a small form factor. It features four M.2 NVMe slots, dual 2.5GbE ports, and support for up to 48GB DDR5 memory, offering impressive capabilities for its size. Available in two configurations, the quad-core Intel N150 model and the octa-core Intel N355 model, it aims to balance affordability and performance. This review covers the design, hardware, storage, performance tests, and overall value of the N355 model. Compact and highly portable, the P6 is marketed toward users who need a small but capable server for virtualization, containerized apps, and media streaming. With support for up to four M.2 NVMe drives, it caters to users focused on high-speed, flash-based storage rather than traditional hard drives. However, its PCIe 3.0 x1 lanes per M.2 slot and lack of 10GbE raise questions about its potential bottlenecks.

The P6 is priced competitively at $195 for the N150 version and $315 for the N355 version, placing it in a niche between DIY NAS solutions and more expensive pre-built systems. Despite its compact size, it promises a multi-core processor, virtualization support, and dual 2.5GbE connectivity, making it appealing to users with small-scale but demanding workloads. However, users should be prepared for some limitations typical of compact systems, such as limited expandability and port options. Let’s discuss the P6.

CWWK x86 P6 N355 SSD NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

he CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS offers a compact and capable option for users seeking a small-scale, flash-based server with support for multiple VMs, containers, and media streaming. The Intel N355 model performs well under load, handling three VMs simultaneously while maintaining reasonable power consumption of 34–35W. SSD speeds were solid for a PCIe 3.0 x1 setup, reaching around 780 MB/s read and 690 MB/s write per drive, though aggregate speeds across four drives were limited to 450–520 MB/s. Cooling is generally effective, with CPU temperatures peaking at 40°C, but NVMe SSDs required improved thermal pads to keep below 55°C under load. Noise levels remained moderate, between 35–38 dBA depending on fan usage. The inclusion of SATA support via JFPC1 ribbon cables, while unconventional, offers an additional expansion route, though BIOS adjustments may be needed for full compatibility. Dual 2.5GbE ports support link aggregation but limit network throughput compared to 10GbE options, which can only be added via an M.2 to 10GbE adapter, sacrificing a storage slot. The two USB ports are restrictive for those needing additional connectivity. Overall, the P6 delivers good multi-purpose performance in a compact form factor, but its PCIe lane limitations, limited USB ports, and barrel power input may be drawbacks for some users. It is a suitable choice for those seeking a small, efficient, and configurable NAS, provided they understand its hardware constraints.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.8

PROS

Compact and portable design (100x100x58.5 mm, aluminum chassis)
Good multi-VM performance (three VMs with under 50% CPU utilization)
Dual 2.5GbE ports with link aggregation (~550 MB/s combined throughput)
Reasonable power efficiency (18W idle, 34–35W under heavy load)
Expandable via M.2 adapters (supports M.2 to PCIe, OCuLink, or 10GbE)
Effective CPU cooling (40°C peak with aluminum heat sinks and fan)
Smooth media streaming (1080p, 4K, and 8K playback on Plex)
Supports up to 48GB DDR5 RAM (high capacity for VMs and containers)

CONS

Limited PCIe bandwidth (PCIe 3.0 x1 per M.2 slot)
Only two USB ports (restricts peripheral and OS drive options)
Barrel power input (no USB-C for power delivery)
SATA support via JFPC1 cable requires adjustments and may need BIOS tweaks

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CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Design

The CWWK P6 is remarkably compact, measuring 100 x 100 x 58.5 mm, and built with an all-aluminum alloy chassis, which doubles as a heat sink. Weighing approximately 1.2 kg, the unit has a solid, durable feel.

The top panel functions as a large heat sink for the SSDs, while the bottom panel houses a CPU fan and aluminum heat sink.

The cooling system is effective but relies on passive dissipation for the SSDs unless the optional external fan, included in the package, is attached via USB.

The power input uses a 12V/5A barrel connector, which is disappointing for users expecting USB-C. Given the small size and relatively low power draw, USB-C with Power Delivery (PD) could have been a modern and convenient solution.

The barrel connector feels like an outdated choice and limits power supply flexibility. On a positive note, the included 60W power adapter is compact and efficient.

The port selection is limited, with only two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (10 Gbps) and two HDMI 2.0 outputs supporting up to 4K 60Hz displays. Users planning to use UnRAID or similar OSes via USB may quickly find the two ports insufficient, especially if they need one for a keyboard or KVM switch.

Additionally, the M.2 E-key slot for Wi-Fi 6 or 7 is present, but no antenna kit or Wi-Fi module is included, adding extra cost for wireless connectivity.

The included thermal pads for the M.2 drives are extremely thin, providing minimal heat dissipation.

During sustained workloads, SSD temperatures rose above 65°C, but using third-party thermal pads reduced peak temperatures by approximately 10°C, enhancing performance stability.

The optional external fan, which attaches to the top panel via USB, helps reduce SSD temperatures during sustained workloads but at the cost of a higher noise level.

Overall, the design feels solid but because they have had to cram a lot into a small space, the potential for airflow in key areas might be pretty poor (hence the included optional USB fan). While the cooling solution is effective, port limitations, poor-quality thermal pads, and the choice of barrel power input are significant drawbacks.

Despite these issues, the compact size and all-metal construction make it an attractive option for users needing a small yet powerful NAS.

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The CWWK P6 is powered by Intel Twin Lake processors, offering two configurations: the quad-core N150 (up to 3.6 GHz, 6W TDP) and the octa-core N355 (up to 3.9 GHz, 15W TDP). The N355 version tested here features eight cores, 32EU Intel UHD graphics at 1.35 GHz, and a TDP of 15W, making it more suitable for virtualization, container workloads, and media streaming.

The system uses one SO-DIMM DDR5 slot, supporting up to 48GB of non-ECC DDR5 4800 MHz RAM. While the single-channel configuration may reduce memory performance, the high RAM ceiling is useful for running multiple VMs or containers. The absence of ECC memory support may be a concern for users seeking data integrity in a server environment, but again – at this price it is tough to be overly critical about this here.

For networking, the P6 includes two 2.5GbE ports, controlled by Intel i226V controllers, supporting SMB multichannel and link aggregation. During testing, the 2.5GbE ports achieved up to 550 MB/s combined throughput with link aggregation. However, the lack of 10GbE is a missed opportunity, given the PCIe limitations on M.2 throughput, which could benefit from faster networking.

A M.2 E-key slot is provided for Wi-Fi 6 or 7 modules, but no module or antenna is included. Additionally, while the motherboard supports auto power-on, Wake-on-LAN (WoL), and PXE boot, the BIOS lacks some advanced settings found on other DIY NAS boards – however the N355 CPU itself is already getting stretched pretty thin here, so the scope for modification is pretty slim anyway to be honest.

One notable advantage is the expandability of the M.2 slots, which can be used for more than just storage. Users can install M.2 to PCIe adapters for 10GbE network cards, PCIe expansion cards, or even OCuLink adapters for external storage enclosures. This flexibility allows the P6 to be tailored for different use cases, such as adding 10GbE for faster networking or expanding with a PCIe card for additional functions. This feature partially offsets the lack of built-in 10GbE and adds versatility to the system.

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Storage

The CWWK P6 is built around four M.2 NVMe 2280 slots (PCIe 3.0 x1), supporting high-speed, flash-based storage. Each slot has a maximum theoretical throughput of around 800 MB/s, which is suitable for general NAS tasks but limits RAID performance.

The absence of screw holes for shorter M.2 sizes means users must use full-length 2280 drives.

The included thermal pads are surprisingly thin and for an all flash system, a little underwhelming, but given the 3×1 speed of each bay, just how hot each SSD will be getting is debatable.

The four M.2 NVMe SSD Bays are mounted on a a sister board that is connected on it’s underside with a 40 pin connector into ANOTHER m.2 NVMe PCB that is in a single m.2 2280 SSD slot on the lower micro motherboard.

The M.2’s profile is still being investigated, but it IS a novel way of getting around the limitations of the base N150/N355 PCU Lanes and physical distribution that a single board would have needed to counter/work-around.

During sustained workloads, SSD temperatures rose above 65°C, but using third-party thermal pads reduced peak temperatures by approximately 10°C, enhancing performance stability. The optional top-mounted fan offers additional cooling but increases noise levels.

The P6 includes an unusual SATA expansion option using JFPC1 ribbon cables connected to the motherboard. While the implementation is unconventional, it is understandable given the small internal space constraints.

During testing, these SATA drives were detected in the BIOS but not recognized by the OS, indicating possible BIOS or driver issues.

It is worth noting that the inclusion of SATA connectivity is a welcome option for users needing low-cost storage expansion, though it may require further configuration.

As mentioned earlier, the lack of an internal PCIe slot limits storage expansion of course. However, users can convert an M.2 slot to a 10GbE network card, PCIe expansion, or even OCuLink storage expansion using third-party adapters. This flexibility is a notable advantage but comes at the cost of losing an M.2 storage slot.

Overall, the storage system is functional but limited by PCIe lane bottlenecks and poor SATA support implementation. Users seeking high-speed RAID configurations may be disappointed, but for NVMe-based storage pools, virtualization, and caching, the P6 performs well within its hardware constraints.

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Tests & Performance

In this section, we evaluate the CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS based on its SSD speeds, power consumption, noise levels, and thermal performance. Using the N355 octa-core model with four M.2 NVMe SSDs, we tested its performance under different workloads, including file transfers, virtualization, and media streaming. Even initial VM testing was pretty promising, when I ran three Windows 10 VMs, at 1 Core and 2GB Memory – there was still plenty of H/WW remaining to play with and each VM ran well. Just keep in mind that you only have 8 threads (i.e 8 vCPU) to assign.

We also measured how efficiently the system manages power and heat under load. Our tests aim to give a clear, practical understanding of what users can expect from the P6, particularly for tasks like running small scale containers or virtual machines or acting as a domestic/home/family media server, while considering its design limitations, such as PCIe lane constraints and cooling efficiency.

SSD Performance:

In our tests with four M.2 NVMe SSDs (PCIe 3.0 x1):

• Single SSD (Sequential): 780–790 MB/s (Read), 690 MB/s (Write)

• Four SSDs Simultaneously: 450–520 MB/s aggregate throughput

The x1 PCIe lanes per slot are the primary bottleneck, but single-drive speeds are acceptable for general NAS usage. Performance drops significantly in RAID configurations due to lane sharing.

Power Consumption:

Measured during testing:

• Idle (No Drives): 18W
• All Four SSDs Under Load: 31–32W
• Three VMs with Disk Activity: 34–35W

• Power efficiency is reasonable, and the 15W TDP N355 processor delivers a good balance of performance and efficiency.

Noise Levels:

• Base Fan Only (Peak): 35–36 dBA
• With Optional Top Fan: 38 dBA (noticeable but not disruptive)
  The top fan is audibly louder, but effective for SSD cooling, especially during sustained workloads.

Temperature Measurements:

• CPU Peak (VMs & SSD Reads): 40°C (with fan)
• SSD Peak (Stock Thermal Pads): 65°C
• SSD Peak (Improved Thermal Pads): 55°C

The large aluminum heat sinks and internal fan handle CPU heat effectively, but a lot of this comes down to the CPU being already low-powered to start with, as well as the speed limit of 3×1 on each bay – sorry to keep repeating this, but it’s important!). Early PLEX performance testing was very good! I tested the streaming of a 100Mb 1080p file, a 60Mb 4K HEVC File and an 8K File. I will be going into more detail on the PLEX performance (especially the hardware transcoding later on, via PLEX PASS) later on via the YouTube channel, but my early testing was very good and the CPU use on these single connections was very good (even with Software transcoding too).

CWWK x86 P6 NAS Review – Verdict & Conclusion

The CWWK x86 P6 Pocket SSD NAS offers a compact and efficient solution for flash-based storage, virtualization, and media streaming, with strong CPU performance and reasonable power consumption. It excels in scenarios such as running multiple VMs, hosting containers, and acting as a Plex server, thanks to its Intel N355 processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. However, it has notable drawbacks, including limited PCIe lanes, unconventional SATA expansion, and only two USB ports, which may restrict expandability. That said, the SATA implementation, while unusual, is understandable given the space limitations of the compact design, and it provides an option for low-cost storage expansion. Additionally, the barrel power input instead of USB-C feels outdated, and thermal pads provided for SSDs are insufficient, necessitating upgrades for long-term reliability.

The lack of 10GbE networking is a missed opportunity, but users can add 10GbE via M.2 adapters, albeit at the cost of an M.2 slot. The N355 version offers significantly better performance for multi-tasking and VMs compared to the N150 version, making it worth the additional cost for power users . In conclusion, the CWWK x86 P6 is best suited for tech-savvy users who are comfortable with DIY upgrades and minor hardware adjustments. It offers good value for VM hosting, containerization, and high-speed storage tasks, provided users are aware of its limitations and willing to work around them.

Pros	Cons
Compact and portable – Small 100x100x58.5 mm size with a durable aluminum chassis.	Limited PCIe bandwidth – PCIe 3.0 x1 per M.2 slot restricts maximum SSD performance.
Good multi-VM performance – Handled three VMs with low CPU utilization (under 50%) and stable performance.	Only two USB ports – Limited connectivity for peripherals and OS boot drives.
Dual 2.5GbE ports – Supports link aggregation for up to ~550 MB/s throughput.	Barrel power input – No USB-C for power delivery, limiting modern power supply options.
Reasonable power efficiency – 18W idle, 34–35W under heavy load with four SSDs and three VMs.	SATA support requires adjustments – JFPC1 cable solution is unconventional and may need BIOS tweaks.
Expandable via M.2 adapters – Supports M.2 to PCIe, OCuLink, or 10GbE adapters.
Effective cooling for CPU – Integrated aluminum heat sinks and internal fan kept CPU below 40°C under load.
Good media streaming performance – Smooth playback for 1080p, 4K, and 8K files during Plex tests.
Support for up to 48GB DDR5 RAM – High memory capacity for VMs and containers.

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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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