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U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Good M-ATX NAS Case?

Par : Rob Andrews
19 janvier 2024 à 18:00

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review

In this review, we take a closer look at the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case, a compact storage enclosure designed to address the storage needs of various users. Our evaluation will provide a detailed examination of its design, features, and overall performance, offering a fact-based assessment to assist you in making an informed decision regarding its compatibility with your specific storage requirements. Whether you are a professional seeking reliable data storage solutions or an enthusiast embarking on a home NAS build, our analysis aims to provide a balanced and factual perspective on the U-NAS NSC-810A.

Note – You can watch the video review of the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Enclosure HERE on YouTube

Hardware Highlights in Brief:

  • Chassis Type: Mini-Tower.
  • Color: Black.
  • Motherboard Compatibility: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX.
  • PSU Form Factor: 1U Flex (not included).
  • Front Ports: 1 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio (mic & headphone).
  • Cooling: 2 x 120mm Gelid Ultra Quiet Fans (variable speed).
  • Expansion:
  • Hot-Swap Drive Bays: 8 x 3.5” SATA/SAS.
  • Internal Drive Bay: 1 x 2.5” HDD/SSD.
  • Expansion Slots: 2 x PCI / PCI Express.
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 315mm x 275mm x 197mm (feet not included).
  • Net Weight: 5.6KG.

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Quick Conclusion

The U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case provides a compact and well-organized storage solution with several advantages. It offers 8-Bay storage capacity and a user-friendly internal layout, including pre-connected SATA cables and effective cooling options. The option to replace the rear backplane and space for a 2.5” SATA SSD drive add to its versatility. However, some limitations include the non-standard PSU, potential constraints for M-ATX motherboards, and interference issues with larger PCIe cards. Despite these considerations, the NSC-810A remains a practical choice for specific storage needs, provided users account for its unique features and limitations.

$219 (Check Amazon HERE) $219 (Check Aliexpress HERE)
Pros of the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Cons of the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case
  • Compact design with 8-Bay storage capacity.
  • Organized internal layout with pre-connected SATA cables and tidy front panel connectors.
  • Generous CPU fan height allowance and an additional internal fan for adequate cooling.
  • Option to replace the SATA/SAS rear backplane with a SAS version.
  • Inclusion of space for a 2.5” SATA SSD drive.
  • Durable construction and metal exterior.
  • Non-standard 1U FLEX PSU, which may inconvenience some users.
  • Requirement for PCIe risers/extenders due to horizontal motherboard placement.
  • Limited space for M-ATX motherboards, particularly with additional cables and risers.
  • The internal 80mm fan’s positioning may interfere with large PCIe cards.
  • Potential thermal challenges with high-end CPUs, necessitating specialized cooling solutions.

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Packaging

The U-NAS NSC-810A NAS case arrives in a standard brown box, which can be described as rather generic in appearance. However, within this unassuming packaging, you’ll find a well-protected 8-Bay enclosure encased in sturdy black hard foam.

The accessories accompanying the enclosure come neatly organized within their dedicated kit box. This accessory box contains essential items such as cable ties, a molex power splitter, screws suitable for 2.5” and 3.5” HDDs, and a SATA 2.5” plate designed to accommodate a drive.

It’s worth noting that U-NAS offers additional accessories separately, allowing users to customize their NAS setup. These optional extras include SAS rear-connected backplanes and a PCIe EXTENSION KIT.

For those seeking a complete package, U-NAS provides the option to purchase the NAS case prepopulated with a 1U Flex 350W PSU included, priced at $329, or without any PSU included at a cost of $219. In the PSU-included configuration, the power supply unit arrives pre-installed, alongside the presence of 2x molex power connectors pre-connected to the storage backboard.

In summation, the accessories kit provided with the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS case offers practicality and organization. While the packaging and accessories might be characterized as somewhat generic, they nonetheless offer good value for the price, ensuring that users receive a comprehensive package equipped with essential components for their NAS setup.

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Design

This NAS case, while not unique to the U-NAS brand, does arrive bearing the U-NAS logo prominently displayed at the top, distinguishing it from similar cases available on Aliexpress and Amazon.

The chassis of the NSC-810A is characterized by its metal external lid, enveloping three sides of the enclosure. Its dimensions measure 315mm x 275mm x 197mm, presenting a desktop-style 8-Bay design.

Upon unboxing, the case’s metal slides are found protected by a layer of plastic, which can be easily peeled off to reveal the pristine surfaces. While the metal casing may be considered somewhat thin, it provides a reassuring level of sturdiness.

The external lid features a brushed and smooth metal finish, contributing to its overall aesthetics. Ventilation is concentrated on one side of the case, where the motherboard and CPU are typically located. Here, an internally mounted 80mm Geild silent fan ensures airflow.

On the opposite side of the case, three smaller ventilation panels are present, contributing to cooling efforts. However, it’s important to note that there is no further ventilation on the top or base of the chassis.

The front panel of the case is constructed from plastic and lacks a dedicated cavity for an LCD panel. While not a glaring issue, it results in a noticeable and somewhat unconventional space on the front panel. It includes a clearly visible USB Type-A USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gb/s) port, as well as sturdy power on/off and reset buttons.

One distinctive feature is found at the corner edge of the front panel, where 2x additional USB 2.0 Type-A ports and sound (audio In/Out) ports are located. This addition enhances the case’s functionality and connectivity options.

While the individual storage bays within the case are not lockable, they feature ample ventilation to support cooling. Each storage tray is designed for easy removal and includes a spring-loaded handle for user convenience. Inside each bay, combined SAS/SATA connectors facilitate connectivity.

Turning to the rear panel, it features two large 120mm fans to manage cooling efficiently. The case includes a clear M-ITX, DTX, or M-ATX-ready backplane panel, with the board placed horizontally at the top left of the casing. However, this orientation results in an issue with PCIe card deployment, which will be elaborated on later in the review.

In terms of aesthetics, it’s important to acknowledge that the case may appear somewhat dated by the standards of 2023/2024. Nonetheless, it compensates for this with its robust construction, signifying durability as a primary attribute.

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Inside

Inside the U-NAS NSC-810A, you’ll find an internal 1U FLEX PSU cavity. However, it’s worth noting that some users may prefer a standard SFX PSU due to its wider availability in retail shops.

The included PSU comes with a main 20 PIN connector, 2x SATA power connectors, and 2 additional smaller motherboard port connectors, ensuring adequate power distribution.

The case comes equipped with pre-connected SATA data cables, offering convenience during setup. These SATA cables are pre-attached to the rear backboard, streamlining cable management. Power for the SATA backboard is also pre-attached via 2x molex power cables, contributing to a tidy and organized internal layout.

Front panel cables are neatly arranged, maintaining an organized appearance. The front panel connectors encompass a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, power and reset buttons, LED indicators, audio In/Out ports, and 2x USB connectors, enhancing the case’s connectivity options.

The M-ITX or M-ATX motherboard is mounted horizontally at the top of the case, which accommodates 2x PCIe slots with full width and ¾ length cavities. However, due to the motherboard’s horizontal placement, the installation of PCIe cards necessitates the use of a PCIe riser or extender, which further occupies the limited internal space, mainly already occupied by cables.

M-ATX motherboards, in particular, may fit quite snugly, especially with the presence of cables and a riser, potentially impacting airflow and components’ accessibility.

The CPU fan height allowance within the case is relatively generous, especially when compared to the NSC-410 4-Bay model. Additionally, the presence of an internal fan ensures active airflow over the motherboard and CPU cooler.

However, the internal 80mm fan is positioned in the pathway of the PCIe cards. Consequently, exceptionally large PCIe cards may obstruct this fan. An alternate placement on the other side of the casing might have mitigated this issue.

It’s important to note that more powerful CPUs, such as Intel Core i5 and above or high-end AMD Ryzens, may encounter thermal challenges in this configuration. To address potential overheating concerns, users may need to invest in integrated and compact copper-piped CPU heatsinks and fans.

The rear backplane responsible for SATA/SAS connections can be replaced with a SAS backplane version, an option available from U-NAS. Furthermore, the case offers space for a 2.5” SATA SSD drive, and an additional SATA cable is included to facilitate this.

The U-NAS NSC-810A represents a compact case with certain design considerations. While it allows for an organized interior layout, the placement of the motherboard in close proximity to the 8-Bay SATA drive cage at an angle may limit CPU fan options and potentially obstruct horizontal airflow. Other cases, such as the Audhied K7, have addressed motherboard placement differently, providing more space for CPU fans and eliminating the need for PCIe risers/extenders.

U-NAS NSC-810A vs NSC-410 NAS Case Comparison

The U-NAS NSC-410 and NSC-810A NAS cases, both offering storage solutions, exhibit distinct differences while sharing some common traits. In terms of size, the NSC-410 is a smaller 4-Bay enclosure, whereas the NSC-810A boasts a more extensive 8-Bay capacity. This difference in capacity makes the NSC-810A a preferable choice for users with larger storage needs, while the NSC-410 caters to more modest requirements. While both cases maintain an organized internal layout with pre-connected SATA cables and tidy front panel connectors, they differ in the placement of motherboards. The NSC-410 positions motherboards vertically, while the NSC-810A opts for a horizontal placement. This design choice impacts CPU fan options and airflow considerations, with the NSC-810A potentially limiting the space available for CPU cooling solutions. Additionally, the NSC-810A features two large 120mm fans on its rear panel, enhancing cooling capabilities, whereas the NSC-410 relies on a single 120mm fan for airflow.

Key Differences:

  1. Compatibility: The NSC-810A supports both M-ITX and M-ATX Motherboards, whereas the NSC-410 only supports M-ITX
  2. Capacity: NSC-410 offers 4-Bay storage, whereas NSC-810A provides an 8-Bay capacity.
  3. Motherboard Placement: NSC-410 positions motherboards vertically, while NSC-810A mounts them horizontally.
  4. Cooling: NSC-810A incorporates two large 120mm fans for enhanced cooling, while NSC-410 relies on a single 120mm fan.
  5. Size: NSC-810A is larger with dimensions of 315mm x 275mm x 197mm, while NSC-410 is more compact at 263mm x 195mm x 197mm.
  6. Storage Bay Trays: The NSC-810A may accommodate larger PCIe cards due to its additional size, while the NSC-410 may have constraints in this regard.

U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case presents a practical solution for those seeking a compact and well-organized storage enclosure. While it offers several notable advantages, there are certain considerations to bear in mind. On the positive side, the case’s compact design with 8-Bay storage capacity makes it suitable for various storage needs. The organized internal layout, including pre-connected SATA cables and tidy front panel connectors, streamlines the installation process. Additionally, the generous CPU fan height allowance and the presence of an internal fan contribute to effective cooling solutions. The option to replace the rear backplane with a SAS version enhances the case’s versatility, and the provision of space for a 2.5” SATA SSD drive is a practical inclusion. The case’s overall construction, with a durable metal exterior, underscores its longevity. However, it’s important to acknowledge certain limitations, such as the non-standard 1U FLEX PSU, which may require some users to adapt their power supply configuration. The motherboard’s close proximity to the SATA drive cage may restrict CPU fan choices and impact airflow, necessitating PCIe risers or extenders.

Furthermore, the case’s suitability for M-ATX motherboards, particularly with additional cables and risers, may be constrained. The internal 80mm fan’s position can interfere with larger PCIe cards, requiring careful consideration during component selection. Finally, users with more demanding CPUs may need to invest in specialized cooling solutions. The NSC-810A NAS Case offers a practical and compact storage solution, complemented by an organized interior and robust construction. While it has certain design considerations, its overall positive attributes make it a viable choice for those with specific storage requirements, provided they align with the case’s unique features and limitations.

$219 (Check Amazon HERE) $219 (Check Aliexpress HERE)
Pros of the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case Cons of the U-NAS NSC-810A NAS Case
  • Compact design with 8-Bay storage capacity.
  • Organized internal layout with pre-connected SATA cables and tidy front panel connectors.
  • Generous CPU fan height allowance and an additional internal fan for adequate cooling.
  • Option to replace the SATA/SAS rear backplane with a SAS version.
  • Inclusion of space for a 2.5” SATA SSD drive.
  • Durable construction and metal exterior.
  • Non-standard 1U FLEX PSU, which may inconvenience some users.
  • Requirement for PCIe risers/extenders due to horizontal motherboard placement.
  • Limited space for M-ATX motherboards, particularly with additional cables and risers.
  • The internal 80mm fan’s positioning may interfere with large PCIe cards.
  • Potential thermal challenges with high-end CPUs, necessitating specialized cooling solutions.
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The Best 8-Bay NAS of 2023/2024

Par : Rob Andrews
15 décembre 2023 à 18:00

A Guide to the Best 8-Bay NAS Drives to Buy Right Now

Delving into the world of NAS for business purposes, it becomes clear that the 8-Bay NAS drives mark a significant leap in seriousness and capability. While NAS systems are commonly used in homes, for budget-friendly options, and in small businesses for basic storage needs, the 8-Bay variants signify a major step up. These systems, compatible with both hard drives and SSDs, showcase the advanced capabilities of NAS brands. Historically, 8-Bays have been pivotal in transitioning from Desktop to Rackmount servers, offering enhanced storage, performance, and redundancy. Such systems boast features like 10-gigabit ethernet, Xeon processors, and increased memory, catering to a broader range of users and processes than their predecessors. Early on, NAS brands integrated 8-Bay desktop servers into their offerings, recognizing the need for compact, powerful desktop solutions to compete with traditional rackmount servers. With an array of 8-Bay NAS systems available, each with unique hardware and software features, yet similarly priced, the choice can be overwhelming. In this guide, I aim to spotlight the top three 8-Bay NAS drives to consider in 2023/2024, selected for their value, scalability, and power. Let’s dive in.

Best NAS of the Year

What Have All the Best 8-Bay NAS Drives Have in Common?

It is worth remembering that although there are ALOT of different 8-Bay NAS drives available to buy, they are by no means created equal! With numerous super-budget brands popping up online, it can be tempting to consider these alongside the premium NAS brands. However, all too often they offer solutions righty seem ‘too good to be true’ and then are gone from the web before your warranty even gets cold! So, whether you are looking at the three best 8-Bay solutions that I am recommending below OR are looking at another 8-Bay NAS you saw on offer/recommended elsewhere – the best NAS system ALWAYS includes the following software and services:

  • Combined Hardware & Software Solution – That means that you are buying the hardware, but it ALSO includes a web browser GUI, mobile apps and desktop client apps (including backup, media, streaming, surveillance and file management software)
  • All NAS systems in this guide are compatible with (and can be accessed by) Windows, Mac, Android and Linux operating systems
  • All NAS Solutions arrive with between 2-3 years Warranty (with the option to extend to 5 years)
  • All NAS drives can be accessed locally over the network, as well as secure remote access is possible with brand-supported services (at no additional cost)
  • The most modern and regularly updated NAS systems will support the very latest 20TB NAS hard drives (such as the Seagate Ironwolf 22TB and WD Red 22TB)
  • All the recommended solutions support multiple drive configurations (RAID) for drive failure protection and performance enhancements
  • All solutions receive regular updates to their security, features and services
  • All recommended NAS drives can connect and synchronize with cloud services (Google Drive, DropBox, OneDrive, etc), as well as Business/Enterprise services such as AWS, Azure, Backblaze and more
  • All NAS solutions (regardless of brand) feature the ability to host a shared drive on your PC/Mobile/Laptop systems that are synchronized with the NAS via the network/internet, but is shown in your native operating system file manager (i.e Mac Finder or Windows Explorer)
  • All the NAS solutions listed can be accessed DIRECTLY via an ethernet/network cable being connected from your PC/Mac system, to the NAS RJ45 port for 100MB/s and higher connectivity
  • All the best NAS solutions (regardless of brand) feature backup and sync tools that can be installed on your local client computer and allow regular backups of your files and system data

So, make sure that if you are looking at a NAS solution that is NOT recommended below, that it includes all of the above as these are some of the clearest areas that brands all too often cut orders to produce cheaper by ultimately inferior NAS servers for home and business.


Honourable Mention: The QNAP TVS-h874T Thunderbolt4 NAS

0-176TB, 8-Bays, 2x PCIe 4×4 M.2 NVMe 2280, PCIe Gen 4×16 Upgrade Slot, Intel Core 12th Gen i7/i9 CPU, 32-64GB DDR4 (non-ECC) Memory, 2x Thunderbolt4 Port, 2x 2.5Gbe Port, KVM, ZFS or EXT4 Setup, 3-5yr Warranty

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $2999-3499

Hardware Review – LINK (h874) – h874T Review Coming Soon

YouTube Video Review – Watch (h874) – h874T Review Coming Soon

In summarizing the capabilities and potential of the QNAP TVS-h874T NAS, released as a late 2023 update to its predecessor, it’s clear that this system represents a significant leap forward in desktop NAS technology. Priced over £2500, it’s a substantial investment, designed with future-proofing in mind. The TVS-h874T not only maintains the longevity and high-end status of the TVS-h874 but also brings to the table enhanced direct data access through Thunderbolt 4 integration. This advancement, supporting IP over Thunderbolt protocol, significantly boosts connectivity and speed, making the system an ideal choice for demanding tasks such as 8K video editing and high-performance computing needs in business environments. However, the question of whether Thunderbolt NAS is the right fit for all users remains. For those requiring high-speed, multi-user access and scalability, the TVS-h874T is a strong contender. Its support for the latest PCIe 4 standards ensures compatibility with high-performance upgrades, reinforcing its position as a future-proof investment. The software, featuring QTS and QuTS, might require some acclimatization, particularly for those familiar with simpler systems like Synology’s DSM. Yet, the benefits, especially for ZFS enthusiasts, are undeniable, offering advanced RAID management and a plethora of applications and services.

The TVS-h874T’s stance on open hardware and software compatibility is a significant plus in an industry increasingly leaning towards proprietary systems. It accommodates a range of third-party hardware and software, adding to its versatility. In the face of growing concerns over NAS security, the system is well-equipped with comprehensive tools and settings for enhanced security and data protection, addressing the pressing issue of ransomware attacks. In conclusion, the QNAP TVS-h874T stands out as an exceptional choice for businesses and power users who require a robust, scalable, and secure NAS solution. It offers an excellent balance of price, performance, and features, making it a worthy investment for those seeking top-tier server-side capabilities. However, for users with simpler storage needs or those not requiring the advanced features of Thunderbolt NAS, traditional Thunderbolt DAS devices might be a more suitable and cost-effective option. The TVS-h874T, with its advanced capabilities, is undoubtedly a powerhouse in NAS technology, but its full benefits will be best realized by those whose requirements align closely with what this advanced system has to offer.

SOFTWARE - 9/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 10/10
PRICE - 7/10
VALUE - 7/10


8.6
PROS
👍🏻Only brand rolling out i9 Turnkey NAS
👍🏻Only NAS Rolling out Thundebrolt4 NAS (for now!)
👍🏻Upto 20 Cores, 24 Threads and High End Integrated Graphics
👍🏻PCIe Gen 4 x16 Upgrade Slot for 10/25/100GbE Cards and 2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe Slots for 7GB SSDs
👍🏻No Obstinant 3rd Party Hardware Limitations on Support or Compatibility
👍🏻Much larger support of 3rd Party Software Services than most other NAS Brands
👍🏻10Gb/s USB Connectivity, in Type A and Type C
👍🏻Upto 64GB of Memory
👍🏻ZFS or EXT 4 File System Choice
👍🏻M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Storage or Caching
👍🏻Volume Encryption, SED SSD Support and WORM
👍🏻Enhanced AI Surveillance Services, with opt to upgrade with $30 Google TPU
👍🏻AI Photo Management Tool (QuMagie) Includes Thing Recognition and works offline
👍🏻ALL the ZFS Benefits, whilst also the GUI and App benefits of a Linux Software Platform in one
CONS
👎🏻No Smaller 4-Bay Version
👎🏻QVR Elite (not QVR Pro) only has 2 Cam Licences
👎🏻Lack of ECC Memory will annoy some users
👎🏻10Gbe is Missing (so no TB-TO-10GbE Pass-through)
👎🏻Too Many licenses on Enterprise Tools (Drive Analyzer, Face Tiger, etc) with too few free licenses

 

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

QNAP TVS-h874T-i9-64G, 8-bay Thunderbolt 4 NAS, Intel Core i9 CPU, 64GB RAM Amazon UK UK 61 OFF (WAS 3860) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Best All Round 8-Bay NAS Drive – Synology DS1821+ NAS

0-176TB, 8-Bays, 2x NVMe Cache Bays, Quad-Core Ryzen V1500B 2.2Ghz CPU, 4-32GB DDR4 ECC Memory, 4x 1Gbe Port, 1x PCIe 3×8 Upgrade Slot, 5yr Warranty

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $1099

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

What I said in my review Dec ’20:

What you have here is a solid piece of hardware that very much lives up to everything Synology promises, even if some of those promises aren’t to everyone’s taste. With a hardware architecture that we have already tested to notable success in the DS1621+ previously, we already knew that this NAS would be able to do everything it promised. Many users looking to spend their annual business budgets on an improved or extended data storage solution will find the balanced position of hardware vs software found by the Synology DS1821+ to be quite desirable, as well as the scaled potential to upgrade external performance via PCIe and storage via eSATA. However, there is no ignoring that despite the fact this 2020 release excels in many things, it also arrives with a little bottlenecking in a number of others. The continued default utilisation of 1Gbe on the newest generation by Synology is somewhat perplexing and although I have continued admiration for Synology’s engagement with intelligent M2 NVMe cache utilisation and providing a solution that allows more flexible upgrade paths, I know that there are still users who just wish they could use that super fast NAND for raw storage pools and have better than gigabit connections out by default.

It has never been a secret that buying a Synology NAS solution was always a largely ‘software over hardware’ purchase, and the DS1821+ is still a fine example of that balance. However, with other brands closing the gap in what they can offer the SMB (Small/Medium Business) user, while still providing superior hardware and similar warranty coverage, there is the tiniest feeling that the DS1821+ is a NAS that sits on its laurels a bit. Hugely upgradable and still with that award-winning and fantastically intuative DSM software, the DS1821+ is about buying a solution you can adapt within its lifespan and not one that will knock your socks off on day one. A solid and dependable data storage solution, if a little safe, at the end of 2020.

SOFTWARE - 8/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 8/10


8.0
PROS
👍🏻Desktop Ryzen Powered Solution
👍🏻Dual NVMe M.2 cache
👍🏻PCIe Gen 3 x8 PCIe Equipped
👍🏻Great RAID Options (inc SHR)
👍🏻Excellent choice of Apps
👍🏻DDR4 ECC Memory up to 32GB
👍🏻Numerous Backup Software Options
👍🏻Huge Virtualization Support
👍🏻3yr Warranty and Extendable to 5yrs
CONS
👎🏻1Gbe Ports seem a bit limited now
👎🏻Shame it does not support 1/2 x DX1215
👎🏻NVMe SSDs cannot be used for RAW storage
DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

Synology DS1821+ 8-Bay Diskstation NAS (AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core 2,2 GHz 4 GB Amazon usa USA 100 OFF (WAS 3464) [LINK]
Synology DS1821+8bay NAS V1500B Quad-Core 2.2 GHz,Black Amazon UK UK 4.53 OFF (WAS 1059) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Most Powerful 8-Bay NAS Drive – QNAP TVS-h874 NAS

0-176TB, 8-Bays, 2x PCIe 4 M.2 NVMe 2280, PCIe Gen 4×16 Upgrade Slot, Intel Core 12th Gen i5/i7/i9 CPU, 16-64GB DDR4 Memory, 2.5Gbe Port, 10Gb x2 Prots (Intel i9 Version), KVM, ZFS or EXT4 Setup, 3-5yr Warranty

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $2000-2500-3000

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

What I said in my review Dec ’22:

The QNAP TVS-h874 NAS is easily one of the most hardware-capable desktop NAS systems that I have ever seen (as you would expect for £2500+) and has clearly been designed with phenomenal future proofing in mind! If you are concerned about the longevity of this NAS, this hardware architecture will still be top tier 5 years from now, with the added support of PCIe 4 meaning that high capacity and performing micro upgrades throughout its life also ensuring it remains relevant long after. It’s price tag clearly moves this purchase out of the home and squarely into the business market (though likely those that take their media seriously will add it to the cart) and the TVS-h874 will function as a solid solution for Video editing (even at 8K), high frequency and performing VMs, large scale AI powered Surveillance setup, hybrid cloud/on-prem alternative to Office 365/Google Workspace services and as the center point for all your data storage operations. Crucially though, it is that the hardware on offer here will be able to do ALL of these at the same time, therefore maximising the investment for most businesses that want to move aware from their cloud dependant ops. In terms of software,t things are a little less absolute, with QTS and QuTS still getting a little busy at times, with a steeper learning curve than its big rival DSM from Synology. That said, die-hard fans of ZFS (Zettabyte File System) will adore the inclusion of benefits in RAID handling, management and recovery that are exclusive to that platform, whilst enjoying the wide range of applications and service benefits in QuTS that are often restricted to Linux platforms.

The slightly conveluded approach to release hardware that does complicate the selection process (different CPUs in the Intel 12th Gen family changing the rest of the system architecture) is something that I hoped this brand would graduate from (for the sake of simplicity), but for many, this level of choice in hardware and budget will be welcome. As is QNAP’s position on the support of 3rd party hardware (drives, PCIe upgrades, etc) and software, something that we have seen a worrying trend in the last few years against elsewhere in the industry but some other brands, to err towards 1st party/proprietary compatibility more and more. There are still lingering doubts by some on the security of NAS, with ransomware attacks on the rise and ALL brands and ALL platforms being targetted (NAS, Cloud ,etc), finding a middle ground between ease of use and depth of security being a tricky tie rope walk indeed. The TVS-h874 arrives with a wide range of Day 1 tools, further rigid defaults in QTS/QuTS in 2022/2023, considerable security settings to configure and multiple system scan tools for recommendations & preventative measures available. The QNAP TVS-h874 is probably the most powerful desktop/tower NAS drive I have ever reviewed and if you are looking for a system that can legitimately do anything server-side, but you are also willing to put in the time to configure it correctly – you will genuinely be hard pushed to find a better system in 2022, 2023 and likely 2024 at this price point and scale.

SOFTWARE - 8/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 10/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 9/10


9.0
PROS
👍🏻First Commercial Intel Core 12th Gen i5, i7 and i9 NAS Drive
👍🏻Upto 20 Cores, 24 Threads and High End Integrated Graphics
👍🏻PCIe Gen 4 x16 Upgrade Slot for 10/25/100GbE Cards and 2x PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe Slots for 7GB SSDs
👍🏻No Obstinant 3rd Party Hardware Limitations on Support or Compatibility
👍🏻Much larger support of 3rd Party Software Services than most other NAS Brands
👍🏻10Gb/s USB Connectivity, in Type A and Type C
👍🏻Upto 64GB of Memory and Potential for 128GB
👍🏻ZFS or EXT 4 File System Choice
👍🏻M.2 NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Storage or Caching
👍🏻Volume Encryption, SED SSD Support and WORM
👍🏻Enhanced AI Surveillance Services, with opt to upgrade with $30 Google TPU
👍🏻AI Photo Management Tool (QuMagie) Includes Thing Recognition and works offline
👍🏻ALL the ZFS Benefits, whilst also the GUI and App benefits of a Linux Software Platform in one
CONS
👎🏻Available Versions/Configs of the 4/6/8-Bay are confusing
👎🏻QVR Elite (not QVR Pro) only has 2 Cam Licences
👎🏻HDMI Output is 1.4b
👎🏻10Gbe is ONLY included with the most expensive Intel i9 Model
👎🏻Noisy when in operation when fully populated
👎🏻Too Many licenses on Enterprise Tools (Drive Analyzer, Face Tiger, etc) with too few free licenses

 

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?

QNAP TVS-h874-i5-32G Intel Core i5 Processor, 32 GB RAM, PCIe Gen 4 expandabilit Amazon UK UK 32.98 OFF (WAS 2638) [LINK]
QNAP TVS-h874 NAS Tower Ethernet LAN Black Amazon UK UK 72.76 OFF (WAS 3743) [LINK]
QNAP TVS-h874T-i9-64G, 8-bay Thunderbolt 4 NAS, Intel Core i9 CPU, 64GB RAM Amazon UK UK 61 OFF (WAS 3860) [LINK]

These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Best Value Hardware 8-Bay NAS Drive – Terramaster T9-450 NAS

0-198TB, 9-Bays, 2x PCIe Gen 3 M.2 NVMe 2280, Intel C3558R Atom Quad Core CPU, 8-32GB Memory, 2x 10GbE SFP, 1x 2.5GbE Port, PCIe Slot (TBC), 2yr Warranty

Current Price/Availability on Amazon – $999-1099

Hardware Review – LINK

YouTube Video Review – Watch

What I said in my review May ’23:

Terramaster has really changed the playing field with the T9-450 NAS. I was already a big fan of their latest generation of 6-Bay, 9-Bay and 12-Bay desktop chassis – providing a pretty substantial amount of storage in a tower design that borrows ventilation methodology traditionally found in rackmounts, but the T9-450 takes this logic and doubles down on it hard. The dual 10GbE on the system means that, despite it’s comparatively modest price point (when comparing against similar scale solutions from Synology and QNAP) you genuinely have a solution with the potential to allow you to enjoy every single MB/s or GB/s of your RAID externally. This is further bolstered with additional 2.5GbE ports, m.2 NVMe bays, uncomplicated support of HDDs/SSDs and just generally a very sensible system that shows how much Terramaster has matured as a brand. The TOS software is still not quite up there with Synology’s DSM or QNAP’s QTS in terms of ease of use and AAA+ features, but it is definitely a great entry point OS that has tighted it’s security since the brand was targetted by a ransomware group (along with other brands, they were affected by Deadbolt attacks) – it certainly lacks some of the background optimization of it’s competitors, but then this is reflected in the budget of the system too.

The internal PCIe slot that has been largely ignored is a bit of a missed opportunity and I am not a big fan of how they have addressed memory compatibility, but overall it is very, very tough to criticise the T9-450 NAS when you factor in the value of the package here. Factor in that you can very easily swap out the OS for many others, and it largely silences alot of the negatives here too. Overall, the T9-450 could potentially be the best NAS that Terramster has ever released and if they continue to address later releases with the same level of hardware value, this could definitely give the bigger names in the industry something of a headache down the road. I highly recommend this system for its value and performance potential!

SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 10/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 10/10


8.8
PROS
👍🏻Surprisingly compact for 9 Bays of Storage
👍🏻Good Middle ground between a Rackmount and Desktop System
👍🏻Dual 10GbE - LOVELY STUFF!
👍🏻Also has support of SMB MultiChannel and an extra 2x 2.5GbE
👍🏻Decent throughput Capable CPU
👍🏻Great RAID Options
👍🏻Snapshot Replication
👍🏻BTRFS/EXT4 Support as preferred
👍🏻A large amount of maximum memory supported (16-32GB - TBC)
👍🏻M.2 SSD Bay inside for caching/storage
👍🏻TOS 5.1 is genuinely good, if not quite as polished/evolved as it\\\'s competitors
👍🏻VERY easy to install TrueNAS, UnRAID, Proxmox, OpenMediaVault, etc (and also easy to reverse)
CONS
👎🏻Secret PCIe Slot - Unused?!
👎🏻Supports ECC Mmeory, but not included (might annoy some)
👎🏻NOT QUIET!

 

DEAL WATCH Is It On Offer Right Now?


These Offers are Checked Daily

 


Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible. Just enter in a few details of your setup, storage requirements and (in the case of buying a new solution) your budget – then me and Eddie the Web guy can help you with your question. This is a completely free service, is NOT provided with profit in mind and is manned by two humans (no bots, no automated replies, etc). Assistance might take an extra day or two (the service gets a lot of visitors) but we do try to answer every message. If you want to support this service, you can find out how to donate HERE. Otherwise, you can still just message us for free advice anyway!

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