ZimaCube Pro NAS Review (i5-1235U Version) – A Crowdfunding Success Story?

The ZimaCube Pro, developed by Ice Whale Technology, is a high-performance NAS system that emerged from a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Positioned as a solution for advanced users, the ZimaCube Pro is designed to meet the needs of those requiring significant storage and processing power for a variety of demanding applications. The device is marketed towards users who require a reliable, high-performance system for tasks such as media management, content creation, and large-scale data processing. This review delves into its design, hardware specifications, connectivity options, performance metrics, and overall usability, providing a comprehensive evaluation of its strengths and limitations.

You can check Amazon for the ZimaCube Pro NAS – HERE

ZimaCube Review – Quick Conclusion / TLDR

The ZimaCube Pro stands out for its solid construction, comprehensive storage options, and advanced connectivity features, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and multiple Ethernet interfaces. These features make it a versatile tool for users who need high-speed data transfer and reliable connectivity.

However, the device also exhibits certain drawbacks, such as elevated noise levels, inconsistent write performance, and some software-related limitations. Although the ZimaCube Pro shows considerable promise, it requires further optimization to fully meet the high expectations set by its crowdfunding campaign and to deliver a more polished user experience.

Feature	Specification
CPU	Intel i5-1235U, 10 cores, 12 threads, 0.9-4.4GHz
Memory	16GB DDR5, upgradable to 64GB
Storage Bays	6x 3.5”/2.5” SATA bays
M.2 NVMe Slots	4 onboard, 2 additional slots
Network Ports	2x 2.5GbE, 1x 10GbE
USB Ports	4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C
Thunderbolt	2x Thunderbolt 4
Dimensions	240 x 221 x 220 mm
Power Supply	External 220W 19V PSU

ZimaCube Review – Design

The ZimaCube Pro is designed with a blend of functionality and aesthetics, focusing on both durability and efficient heat management. The device features a fully aluminum CNC chassis, which not only provides a robust structure but also aids in heat dissipation. The front panel is equipped with a plastic grille, contributing to the device’s ventilation, while the rest of the body is composed of aluminum, reinforcing its sturdy build.

The design includes a clear emphasis on space efficiency within its compact form factor. The internal layout is optimized to maximize space, allowing for extensive storage and connectivity options while maintaining effective heat dissipation. That said, there certainly was a % of users who were disappointed in the need for an external PSU (for further space-saving reasons).

It is a decent enough external PSU, but many who look at bigger solutions like the Zimacube will be less keen on ‘easy to accidentally disconnect’. The PSU aside, I have to give them enormous credit for getting SO MUCH hardware into such a compact, yet attractive frame. Despite these strengths, the design has some areas for improvement. For example, the process of removing the front panel for internal access can be cumbersome, which may be inconvenient for users who frequently need to access the internal components.

Design Features

Aspect	Details
Chassis Material	Full aluminum CNC
Front Panel	Plastic grille
Dimensions	240 x 221 x 220 mm
Weight	8.3 kg
Cooling	Dual fans, comprehensive ventilation system
Color Scheme	Black and orange accents
Build Quality	Sturdy, high-quality finish

The cooling of the system can be broken down into 2 areas. Active and Passive. Passive ventilation comprised vent holes..EVERYWHERE. For such a small case, it has ventilation on almost all sides. Really happy with this and this combined with 2 of the main vent panels being removable is a nice touch.

The inside of the system has 2 cooling systems in place. There is the expected CPU fan, and there are two rear mounted fans that are located under the rear vent panel.

Unfortunately, the system still needs optimization with regard to the reaction of these cooling systems and under even light-medium activity, these cooling systems really do ramp up in noise. Zimacube has stated that this has been acknowledged and an improved cooling system is being rolled out and supplied very soon.

But what about the default cooling fans noise?

The result of the existing fans however is that even when the system is performing very light operations, or even in ile, the system has a higher avg noise level than most other systems of the same scale. Below is the noise level of the system in low use for about 30 mins and THEN on idle afterwards:

The drive trays are much improved over those I saw in the ZimaCube N100 version (the prototype sent through at the start of 2024). They are ‘click and load’, so no tools required, slide in neatly to the bays, and hold the drives very firmly and are generally well put together. Also, I tested HDDs all the way up to 24TB (Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TBs) and did not encounter any compatibility problems.

The Zimacube also includes quite an impressive accessory kit. Not unusual, but they have definitely taken some extra time (and budget?) towards a well put together retail kit:

Also, with regard to design. Very small differences between the N100 version prototype that we received back in Jan 2024 and the Pro model now are visible.

The colour effect of the metal external casing, the build of the m.2 7th bay (more on that later), the trays (mentioned earlier) and the ports of course, all make a difference.

Let’s discuss ‘under the bonnet’ a bit and dig into what the ZimaCube Pro brings to the party.

ZimaCube Review – Storage and PCIe Lanes

The ZimaCube Pro provides substantial storage capacity, equipped with six SATA storage bays and four M.2 NVMe slots. These features are well-suited to users who require extensive storage for large datasets or media libraries.

The device employs an ASMedia ASM2824 PCIe switch to manage the M.2 slots, offering Gen 3 x8 lanes. This setup is intended to ensure high-speed data transfers and efficient use of the available PCIe lanes, particularly for users who rely on NVMe drives for high-performance storage needs.

Additionally, the device includes the ASM1116 controller to handle SATA interfaces, providing a Gen 3 x2 connection that supports up to 2,000 MB/s. This ensures that both SATA and NVMe drives can operate at their maximum potential without bottlenecks, making the ZimaCube Pro a versatile storage solution for different types of drives and configurations.

Storage and PCIe Specifications

Component	Specifications
SATA Bays	6x 3.5”/2.5”
M.2 NVMe Slots	4 onboard, 2 additional slots
PCIe Switch	ASMedia ASM2824, Gen 3 x8 lanes
SATA Controller	ASMedia ASM1116, Gen 3 x2
Max Storage Capacity	Dependent on drive sizes, expandable
PCIe Slots	2 (1x Gen 4 x16, 1x Gen 3 x4)

The system also includes an OS SSD in an m.2 slot directly on the MoBo (not on the 7th bay slots) that is a Kingston Gen 4×4 256GB drive – when they could have EASILY just included a basic Gen3 ‘no name’ drive for ZimaOS – I really appreciate the extra effort and expense here

This combination of storage and PCIe capabilities makes the ZimaCube Pro a flexible and powerful platform for users who need to manage large amounts of data with both speed and reliability. However, the efficiency of this setup may be influenced by the overall system architecture, which can impact real-world performance. The storage bays are connected to the main motherboard via specialized DP cables. They have bolstered this to 2x connectors, as opposed to the 1x cable we saw on the N100 prototype.

It’s an inventive and rather unique solution (when a lot of brands feed a sister board directly into an angled smaller PCIe slot) and certainly assists in allowing for the greatly bandwidth needed for the M.2s in bay #7. But its still ALOT of bandwidth being fed into the system in an unconventional way.  That said, it DOES allow for creative distribution of PCIe lanes and physical PCIe slot. One interesting byproduct is that, despite this being an M-ITX board, the ZimaCube Pro features TWO PCIe slots – VERY unusual!

Whether you are looking at chunky height GFX/GPU cards or just having 2 cards that cover storage AND network improvements, its really impressive that they created this board ‘in house’ that is THIS expandable! They even managed to do this, whilst including default 10GbE connectivity, using an IOCREST 10GbE to M.2 adapter – thereby avoiding forfeiting a PCIe slot.

Overall, Icewhale has done a PHENOMENAL job cramming in THIS much hardware onto an M-ITX board, whilst also creating a great casing around it. The fan noise is kinda crazy (at least until we know if the improved cooling kit they are sending will help) and I have concerns about bandwidth throttling, but you really cannot fault the ingenuity here! Let’s discuss ports and connections.

ZimaCube Review – Ports and Connections

Connectivity is a notable strength of the ZimaCube Pro, which is equipped with a variety of ports designed to support a wide range of applications. The device includes dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, providing high-speed data transfer capabilities, particularly useful for content creators and professionals who need to move large files quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, the device features multiple Ethernet interfaces, including two 2.5GbE ports and one 10GbE port, offering flexible networking options for different environments and network demands.

The inclusion of four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C ports further enhances the device’s versatility, allowing for the connection of a wide array of peripherals, from external drives to media equipment. The HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs add to the device’s multimedia capabilities, making it suitable for tasks that involve video output or display connections.

One EXCELLENT piece of news is that, alongside the 2.5G and 10G network connectivity, the system also supports Thunderbolt over IP / IP over Thunderbolt, at 20Gb/s. This means that DIRECT connectivity over a Thunderbolt 4 cable is possible – with Zimacube Pro even including a TB4 cable (something that is weirdly rare, even from QNAP and their own TB4 NAS solutions)

Hell, the system even features WiFi connectivity and Bluetooth, via an internal USB Dongle. That does mean that larger scale antennae are not present, but as a direct 2nd/3rd tier access method and for easy first time setup on a mobile, this really helps.

Ports and Connectivity

Port Type	Quantity	Specification
Ethernet	3	2x 2.5GbE, 1x 10GbE
USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A	4	High-speed data transfer
USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C	2	Versatile connectivity
Thunderbolt 4	2	20Gbps each, supports point-to-point
HDMI	1	HDMI 2.0
DisplayPort	1	DisplayPort 1.4
Audio Jack	1	3.5mm

Overall, the ZimaCube Pro’s connectivity options are comprehensive, supporting a wide range of use cases and ensuring compatibility with various external devices and networks. The diverse port selection enhances the device’s flexibility, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of professional applications.

ZimaCube Review – Processing Hardware

The ZimaCube Pro is equipped with robust internal hardware, including an Intel i5-1235U processor and 16GB of DDR5 memory, which is expandable up to 64GB. This combination of processing power and memory is designed to handle demanding tasks, such as video editing, large-scale data processing, and other intensive applications. However, keep in mind that this is NOT ECC memory (CPU-related reasons).

As previously mentioned, the architecture of the device includes a detailed lane distribution strategy, managed by the ASMedia ASM2824 PCIe switch, which optimizes data flow across the device’s components. However, keep in mind that the ASM2824 is a Gen3 packet switch, and running on Gen 3×4 – so a maximum 4,000MB/s maximum bandwidth – that also means potential reductions on the drives bandwidth going through it across multiple drives.

The device also includes an ASMedia ASM1116 controller to manage the SATA interfaces, ensuring efficient data transfer between storage devices and the motherboard. That is running on a Gen 3×2 lane , so 2,000MB/s theoretical maximum. As long as the SSDs in Bay 7 are separate (as the dual DP cable new architecture indicates), this should be more than enough for the SATA media bays and will not present a problem to the M.2s as a bottleneck down the road (as observed previously online in the N100 prototype)

Internal Hardware

Component	Specifications
Processor	Intel i5-1235U, 10 cores, 12 threads, 0.9-4.4GHz
Memory	16GB DDR5, upgradable to 64GB
Storage	6x SATA bays, 4x M.2 NVMe slots
PCIe Switch	ASMedia ASM2824, Gen 3 x8 lanes
SATA Controller	ASMedia ASM1116, Gen 3 x2
Cooling System	Dual fans, comprehensive ventilation
Power Supply	External 220W 19V PSU

The hardware configuration of the ZimaCube Pro is well-suited to users who need a powerful and flexible NAS system. However, some performance inconsistencies, particularly in write speeds, indicate that further optimization may be required to fully realize the potential of the device’s hardware.

For the particularly nerdy, here is the full list of PCI devices inside the ZimaCube Pro NAS:

00:08.0 System peripheral: Intel Corporation 12th Gen Core Processor Gaussian & Neural Accelerator (rev 04) 00:0a.0 Signal processing controller: Intel Corporation Platform Monitoring Technology (rev 01) 00:0d.0 USB controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P Thunderbolt 4 USB Controller (rev 04) 00:0d.2 USB controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P Thunderbolt 4 NHI #0 (rev 04) 00:0d.3 USB controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P Thunderbolt 4 NHI #1 (rev 04) 00:14.0 USB controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH USB 3.2 xHCI Host Controller (rev 01) 00:14.2 RAM memory: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH Shared SRAM (rev 01) 00:15.0 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH Serial IO I2C Controller #0 (rev 01) 00:15.1 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH Serial IO I2C Controller #1 (rev 01) 00:16.0 Communication controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH HECI Controller (rev 01) 00:19.0 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P Serial IO I2C Controller #0 (rev 01) 00:19.1 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P Serial IO I2C Controller #1 (rev 01) 00:1c.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Device 51b8 (rev 01) 00:1c.4 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Device 51bc (rev 01) 00:1c.6 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Device 51be (rev 01) 00:1c.7 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH-P PCI Express Root Port #9 (rev 01) 00:1d.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Device 51be (rev 01) 00:1d.2 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation Device 51b2 (rev 01) 00:1e.0 Communication controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH UART #0 (rev 01) 00:1e.3 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Device 51ab (rev 01) 00:1f.0 ISA bridge: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH eSPI Controller (rev 01) 00:1f.3 Audio device: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH-P High Definition Audio Controller (rev 01) 00:1f.4 SMBus: Intel Corporation Alder Lake PCH-P SMBus Host Controller (rev 01) 00:1f.5 Serial bus controller: Intel Corporation Alder Lake-P PCH SPI Controller (rev 01) 01:00.0 PCI bridge: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM2824 PCIe Gen3 Packet Switch (rev 01) 02:00.0 PCI bridge: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM2824 PCIe Gen3 Packet Switch (rev 01) 02:04.0 PCI bridge: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM2824 PCIe Gen3 Packet Switch (rev 01) 02:08.0 PCI bridge: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM2824 PCIe Gen3 Packet Switch (rev 01) 02:0c.0 PCI bridge: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM2824 PCIe Gen3 Packet Switch (rev 01) 03:00.0 Non-Volatile memory controller: Seagate Technology PLC FireCuda 520 SSD (rev 01) 04:00.0 Non-Volatile memory controller: Micron/Crucial Technology Device 5415 (rev 01) 05:00.0 Non-Volatile memory controller: Micron/Crucial Technology Device 5415 (rev 01) 06:00.0 Non-Volatile memory controller: Micron/Crucial Technology Device 5415 (rev 01) 5b:00.0 Non-Volatile memory controller: Kingston Technology Company, Inc. Device 501b 5c:00.0 SATA controller: ASMedia Technology Inc. ASM1166 Serial ATA Controller (rev 02) 5d:00.0 Ethernet controller: Intel Corporation Ethernet Controller I226-V (rev 04) 5e:00.0 Ethernet controller: Intel Corporation Ethernet Controller I226-V (rev 04) 5f:00.0 Ethernet controller: Aquantia Corp. Device 04c0 (rev 03) 60:00.0 Ethernet controller: Aguantia Corp. AOC107 NBase-T/IEEE 802.3bz Ethernet Controller [AOtionl (rey 02)

ZimaCube Review – Noise and Power Consumption

The ZimaCube Pro employs dual fans and a comprehensive ventilation system to manage heat effectively, particularly during intensive tasks. While the thermal management is generally efficient, the device’s aggressive cooling profile leads to higher noise levels, especially when the system is under load. This may be a concern for users who require a quieter operating environment.

Watch the video below (it’s been skipped ahead to the ‘noise test’ part):

In terms of power consumption, the ZimaCube Pro reflects its robust hardware. During idle periods, the device consumes approximately 51W, which increases to around 75W under heavy load. This level of power usage is expected given the high-performance components and the device’s focus on delivering reliable, sustained performance.

Noise and Power Consumption

Aspect	Details
Idle Noise Level	33-38 dB
Load Noise Level	50-60 dB
Idle Power Consumption	51W
Load Power Consumption	75W
Cooling System	Dual fans, aggressive cooling profile
Noise Mitigation	Limited control over fan speeds

While the noise levels and power consumption are in line with the device’s performance capabilities, they may be a consideration for users who prioritize energy efficiency or require a quieter workspace. The cooling system, while effective, could benefit from more refined noise mitigation strategies.

ZimaCube Review – Performance

The ZimaCube Pro offers substantial computing power, making it suitable for tasks such as video editing, large data transfers, and other resource-intensive applications. Initial performance tests indicate strong read speeds, particularly when using Thunderbolt connections, with speeds reaching up to 1.6GB/s.

However, the device’s write performance is less consistent, with speeds ranging from 300MB/s to 600MB/s, depending on the workload and storage configuration.

The device’s ability to handle multitasking efficiently is a key strength, allowing it to support environments where multiple users need simultaneous access to large datasets. Nevertheless, the performance was very inconsistent and sometimes I would get full 10GbE network saturation easily, whilst other times (using the same file/block/network packet sizes) I would see numbers at half! These results were from tests of the RAID 5 HDD array and were the best average results, representing 30 mins of varying tests. Then I switched over to see what level of saturation as possible using the 4x m.2 NVMe SSD bays in a RAID. First up, ATTO:

ATTO Disk benchmark gave pretty much the best results over 10GbE, but of course do not represent real world use. Below are performance numbers for 6x SATA HDDs in a RAID 5:

Finally, dipping into SSH and terminal, I was able to run direct performance tests on the SSDs internally, removing any network limitations entirely.

This performance was significantly reduced as soon as I tried to copy data from 1 SSD to the other internally.

After all of these, I then went ahead and conducted numerous Window transfer tests on both the HDD RAIID array and SD array, however, the variability in write performance suggests that the device may benefit from further firmware updates and optimization to ensure consistent performance across different tasks.

Performance Metrics

Task	Read Speed	Write Speed
Thunderbolt (Read)	Up to 1.6GB/s	N/A
Thunderbolt (Write)	N/A	300-600MB/s
10GbE (Read)	Up to 950MB/s	N/A
10GbE (Write)	N/A	300-500MB/s
SATA HDDs (Read)	Up to 500MB/s	N/A
SATA HDDs (Write)	N/A	300-400MB/s
NVMe SSDs (Read)	Up to 2.2GB/s	N/A
NVMe SSDs (Write)	N/A	1.6GB/s

The performance metrics indicate that the ZimaCube Pro is well-equipped for read-heavy tasks, but users with write-intensive workloads may need to consider the device’s potential limitations in this area.

ZimaCube Review – Multimedia in Plex Media Server

The ZimaCube Pro also functions as a competent Plex Media Server, particularly benefiting from its robust hardware. In tests using the Plex app pre-installed on the device, the ZimaCube Pro demonstrated strong capabilities in handling high-definition media files, including 1080p, 4K, and even some 8K content. However, the system’s performance varied depending on the file format and resolution. For 1080p and 4K files, the ZimaCube Pro performed admirably, with smooth playback and minimal buffering. The device utilized its Intel i5-1235U processor effectively, maintaining relatively low CPU utilization during direct play. However, when transcoding was required, particularly with high-bitrate 4K and 8K files, CPU utilization spiked significantly, and the system fans became noticeably loud. The ZimaCube Pro’s ability to transcode 8K content was limited, often resulting in buffering and high CPU usage. This performance indicates that while the device is powerful, it may not be fully optimized for the most demanding media tasks without further software updates and enhancements. Nonetheless, for typical home media server usage, the ZimaCube Pro provides a satisfactory experience, particularly for users who do not rely heavily on transcoding.

ZimaCube Review – Conclusion

The ZimaCube Pro is a well-rounded NAS solution that combines robust hardware with extensive connectivity options, making it a viable choice for users with demanding storage and processing needs. The device’s solid construction and comprehensive storage capabilities make it a reliable option for professionals involved in content creation, data management, and media processing. The dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and multiple Ethernet interfaces enhance its versatility, allowing it to adapt to various use cases and environments. However, the ZimaCube Pro also presents some challenges that potential users should consider. The device’s high noise levels, particularly under load, could be a concern for those who prioritize a quiet operating environment. The aggressive cooling profile, while effective in managing heat, contributes to this noise issue and may detract from the overall user experience. Additionally, the device’s write performance is less consistent than its read performance, which could impact users who require reliable and fast data transfer for write-intensive tasks.

The software functionality, while adequate, may require further refinement to fully leverage the device’s hardware potential. Firmware updates and enhancements could address these limitations, improving the device’s performance and user experience over time. In summary, the ZimaCube Pro shows significant potential as a high-performance NAS solution, particularly for specific user groups like content creators and data professionals. However, users should weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering their specific needs and environments, before investing in this NAS solution. While the device offers a solid foundation, further optimization and refinement could enhance its appeal, making it a more competitive choice in the NAS market.

You can check Amazon for the ZimaCube Pro NAS – HERE

Pros	Cons
Sturdy construction and high-quality build	High noise levels, especially under load
Extensive storage options (6 SATA bays, 4 M.2 NVMe slots)	Inconsistent write performance
Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports	Aggressive cooling profile
Multiple Ethernet interfaces (2x 2.5GbE, 1x 10GbE)	Software functionality needs optimization
Robust internal hardware (Intel i5-1235U, 16GB DDR5)	Limited control over fan speeds
Comprehensive ventilation system	High power consumption
Ideal for content creators and media management
Versatile connectivity options

 

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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New 10GbE Equipped M-ITX MW-N100-NAS Mobo with Intel N100 CPU on the Market

The 10GbE MW-N100-NAS Alder Lake N100 NAS Motherboard is built around the Alder Lake-N N100 CPU. This processor, designed for mobile and low-power applications, features 4 cores and 4 threads, providing efficient multitasking capabilities. It operates with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.40 GHz and includes a 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache, which enhances performance by reducing data access latency. The CPU has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of just 6 W, making it highly energy-efficient, suitable for applications where power consumption is critical.

In terms of memory, the motherboard supports a single SO-DIMM DDR5 memory slot, allowing for a maximum capacity of 16GB. The supported memory speeds reach up to 4800 MHz, ensuring fast data processing and system responsiveness. Additionally, the motherboard is compatible with DDR4 3200 MT/s and LPDDR5 4800 MT/s, providing flexibility in memory configuration depending on user requirements and availability.

Where to Buy the 10GbE N100 NAS MoBo?

Aliexpress $138.96 (N100 10GbE, No Memory or SSD) – HERE Aliexpress $181.99 (N100 10GbE, 16GB Memory) – HERE Check Amazon HERE

However, it’s important to note that the system only supports a single memory channel and does not support Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory, which is typically used for error detection and correction in critical applications.

Component	Specification
CPU	Alder Lake-N N100
Cores/Threads	4/4
Max Turbo Frequency	3.40 GHz
Cache	6 MB Intel® Smart Cache
TDP	6 W
Memory Slot	1 SO-DIMM DDR5
Max Memory Capacity	16 GB
Supported Memory Types	DDR4 3200 MT/s, DDR5 4800 MT/s, LPDDR5 4800 MT/s

Ports and Connections

The motherboard features a variety of ports and connections, catering to diverse networking and peripheral requirements. A standout feature is its three LAN ports: two i226 2.5G ports and one 10G port. The 10G LAN port provides exceptional network speed, making it suitable for high-bandwidth tasks and data-intensive applications such as media servers, virtual machine hosting, and large-scale data backups. The inclusion of 2.5G ports adds versatility, offering high-speed connections for typical home or office networking scenarios.

Additionally, the motherboard includes 1 HDMI port and 1 DisplayPort, supporting dual-display output for users who require multiple monitors for enhanced productivity. The USB connectivity options are comprehensive, featuring 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 full-function Type-C port, and 2 USB 2.0 ports, catering to a range of peripheral devices and fast data transfer needs. The Type-C port supports various functions, including charging and data transfer, further enhancing its utility. A TF card slot is also available, providing additional storage options for small-scale data transfers.

Port Type	Specification
LAN Ports	2 x i226 2.5G, 1 x 10G
Display Ports	1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort
USB Ports	1 x USB 3.0, 1 x Type-C, 2 x USB 2.0
Other Ports	1 x TF card slot

Pricing

The motherboard is priced to offer flexibility based on user requirements. The base price for the motherboard with the CPU pre-attached is £114.03, providing a cost-effective solution for those who already have compatible memory or wish to upgrade gradually.

For users needing additional memory and a small OS SSD, the motherboard bundled with 8GB of DDR5 memory and a 128GB Gen3 drive is priced at £150.74. This pricing structure allows users to choose the configuration that best fits their needs and budget, making it accessible for a range of applications from home NAS setups to professional workstations.

M-ITX Design

This motherboard adheres to the Mini-ITX form factor, measuring 170mm x 170mm. The compact design is ideal for small form factor builds, offering a space-saving solution without compromising on functionality. The Mini-ITX size is particularly suitable for environments where space is limited, such as home offices, small server rooms, or compact desktop setups. Despite its small size, the motherboard includes a comprehensive set of features typically found in larger motherboards, ensuring it can meet the demands of various applications.

Power Consumption

Designed with energy efficiency in mind, the motherboard’s low power consumption aligns with the Alder Lake-N N100 CPU’s TDP of 6 W. It requires an ATX 24-pin main power connector and a 4-pin power connector, ensuring compatibility with standard power supplies. This low power requirement makes the motherboard suitable for always-on applications, such as NAS or home servers, where maintaining low energy costs is essential. The efficient power usage also contributes to reduced heat generation, further supporting stable and reliable operation in compact builds.

Motherboard Pins and Internal Connections

Internally, the motherboard offers an array of connectors to support various expansion and connectivity needs. It includes 1 COM port for serial communication, 2 USB 2.0 pin headers, 6 SATA 3.0 ports for traditional HDD/SSD connections, and 2 M.2 NVMe slots for high-speed SSD storage. The motherboard also provides headers for FP (Front Panel) and TPM (Trusted Platform Module), enhancing security and system management capabilities. Additionally, it has connectors for CPU and system fans, ensuring adequate cooling and thermal management.

Cooling

Effective cooling is crucial for maintaining performance and longevity, especially in compact builds. The motherboard includes fan headers for both the CPU and system fans, allowing for adequate airflow and temperature control. The inclusion of cooling armor further enhances thermal management by providing additional heat dissipation surfaces, ensuring the system remains stable even under load. This is particularly important for NAS and server applications where the system may be running continuously.

External Connections

Externally, the motherboard offers extensive connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, LAN ports, and display outputs. The high-speed 10GbE networking capability stands out, providing exceptional data transfer rates crucial for demanding network applications. This feature makes the motherboard particularly suitable for environments requiring robust network performance, such as media production studios, data centers, and high-performance home networks. The variety of ports ensures compatibility with a wide range of external devices, enhancing the motherboard’s versatility and functionality.

Where to Buy the 10GbE N100 NAS MoBo?

Aliexpress $138.96 (N100 10GbE, No Memory or SSD) – HERE Aliexpress $181.99 (N100 10GbE, 16GB Memory) – HERE Check Amazon HERE

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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The EASIEST NAS Software You Can Use on Your Custom NAS Server

The appeal of building your very own NAS server instead of purchasing pre-built and OS-locked alternatives from brands like Synology or QNAP, as well as ditching third-party cloud storage from Google and Apple that is subscription-based, cannot really be argued with! The savings that can be made in terms of cost, and the flexibility and customization afforded to a build-your-own/do-it-yourself solution, aren’t really up for debate. However, one thing that is debatable is just how easy the majority of open-source and hardware-free NAS software actually is! There are numerous kinds of NAS software in the market that you can choose to install on second-hand, defunct hardware and highly optimized hand-built server solutions, but despite the improved simplicity of computer building in the last decade, NAS software still continues to be surprisingly complicated, and once you break into the world of business storage, it becomes damn near inscrutable to the outsider. So today, I want to discuss five great examples of genuinely user-friendly network-attached storage software that you can install on your custom server hardware today! Some are more user-friendly than others, some are more feature-rich than others, and some split support and assistance into different tiers of access when you need it. Ultimately, these represent arguably five of the best options you have in 2024 to install software on your NAS, regardless of your level of knowledge in networking and data storage.

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CasaOS and ZimaOS – Easy and Lite!

Price: FREE – Features 5/10 – Ease of Use 9/10 – Release May 2015 – DOWNLOAD

Arguably the second-youngest operating system mentioned in this article, Casa OS and the later, more storage-optimized Zima OS are operating systems developed by the company IceWhale. Both of them are tremendously lightweight operating systems designed to run on x86 hardware-built servers (such as Intel Celeron, Pentium, Core, Xeon, etc.) with at least 2 GB of memory to be fully utilized. Arriving with a client application for your desktop and accessible via the web browser, both can be set up and accessed within minutes of installation. There is an extremely user-friendly desktop GUI, and although the settings and configuration options feel quite limited compared with other entries on this list, if you are looking for simplicity and clarity in the way your system configuration is presented, Casa OS and Zima OS really cannot be beaten.

However, it’s worth remembering that this simplicity in how the information is being presented to you does echo right down to the feature set of the operating system on your server. For example, Casa OS does not (at least as of early 2024) feature any kind of RAID support across multiple drives, and RAID integration into Zima OS is still barely a few months old—a base level introduction feature in the majority of other NAS software. Equally, although file and folder level access to your data is available via a native browser application, which also includes mounting cloud spaces for synchronization, practically every other app and service you install is done so via a container repository. This in itself isn’t really a bad thing, as they still managed to make the installation one-click, but it does mean that beyond the initial OS and some arguably rather rudimentary features, the more advanced and feature-rich experience is going to involve the installation of a whole lot of third-party applications via the simplified container system.

Casa OS and Zima OS are among the very few applications available in the NAS server market that are completely free, with no real pricing or subscription models that are going to get in the way of running your server on this software. Yet, despite this lack of an overt pricing model, feature and security updates are actually pretty regular. The fact that they have rolled out the more advanced Zima OS in line with their currently crowdfunded system shows IceWhale’s dedication towards this NAS OS. It is a very responsive and low-resource-consuming NAS operating system, with a very low learning curve for its introduction. But just keep in mind that what it gains in its simplicity and smooth UX, it loses in terms of a more feature-rich experience.

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UnRAID – Easy AND Capable, YES PLEASE!

Price: 30 Day Trial, then $49/109/249 (Based on Scale/Time) – Features 10/10 – Ease of Use 8/10 – Release May 2005 –  DOWNLOAD

If you have looked at any forum post, any community support forum, or any server-based education platform and asked the question, “What is the most user-friendly NAS software in the market?”, 90% of the time you will hear users say UnRAID. Everything about UnRAID seemingly focuses on efficiency and ease of use, right down to how you install the software on your custom server. Unlike a lot of other NAS software in the market that requires you to provide a completely separate SSD for the installation of the operating system, UnRAID circumnavigates this by running almost entirely on the RAM. UnRAID is installed by preparing a USB via a fantastically user-friendly client app on another computer, completely for free and created inside 10 minutes. A simple 8GB USB for a couple of bucks will be more than enough. Then you take that USB and stick it inside your newly built NAS server or second-hand old hardware you’re going to repurpose, boot the system from the USB drive, and that is it. UnRAID will deploy itself from the USB and onto the system memory. After that, you can access UnRAID via the web browser like any other server, and have access to some fantastically diverse parity and storage pool options, as well as access to one of the largest libraries of one-click containerized applications available in the market.

UnRAID manages to integrate numerous desirable features currently available in different NAS software in the market, but unifies them into this single software operating system. Do you want the mixed storage media advantages present in Synology DSM and Synology Hybrid RAID? No problem, UnRAID supports mixed drive deployment. Do you want the performance benefits and background stability options of Zettabyte File System but find it scarily technical? No trouble, you can mount and use ZFS storage pools in UnRAID easily and quickly. Do you want a single portal user interface that tells you the CPU, memory, user, network, process load, and everything else in a single screen, giving you everything you need to know about your system at once, as found in enterprise-grade SAN/server software? No trouble, UnRAID has this on its very first screen!

As good as all this sounds, it is important to keep your feet on the ground and know that UnRAID is by no means a perfect software platform for your NAS. For a start, although the bulk of options and server configuration/maintenance are quite intuitive and the UX has everything where you expect it to be, the initialization of your storage at the beginning is far less straightforward and the storage manager is long overdue for some kind of easy setup wizard, which is present in the majority of other NAS OS. It’s a real shame because in practically every other regard, UnRAID keeps things incredibly straightforward. Although it provides significant options to access the command line and terminal, it does not rely on these, and a lot of users can get around using UnRAID and never have to use any kind of command line beyond advanced processes and in-depth troubleshooting. Equally, there are going to be users who may balk at the idea of a subscription payment-based model.

UnRAID arrives with a 30-day free trial, which given the ease of installation with a simple USB key that runs out of the RAM, isn’t too shabby. After that, subscription prices range from annual prices based on the size of your array to lifetime memberships that cost around $250. It is worth keeping in perspective that UnRAID is a lifetime OS that allows for adding infinite drives to your array, as well as moving from one hardware configuration system to the next with ease—fantastic scalability. Also, UnRAID provides services to access your server remotely and safely, and the subscription model allows for regular security and feature updates throughout the course of your usage of the software.

Bottom line, there is a good reason why UnRAID is still regarded as the most user-friendly yet capable NAS operating system in the market. To date, it is feature-rich, balances business features and home features, and provides the toolset to do more with it, while still maintaining high levels of usability in its base-level functions for the newbie.

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OpenMediaVault (OMV) – An Oldie but a Goodie!

Price: FREE – Features 8/10 – Ease of Use 7/10 – Release May 2011 – DOWNLOAD

OpenMediaVault (OMV) is a flexible and open-source NAS (Network-Attached Storage) software designed to help users efficiently manage and store data on custom or DIY NAS systems. One of the key advantages of OMV is that it is completely free, which makes it an attractive option for users who want to avoid the costs associated with other commercial NAS solutions. OMV offers a variety of useful features, including support for multiple storage options, allowing users to set up configurations that meet their needs for data protection and performance. It also includes network services for sharing files across different devices and users, making it convenient for both home and small business environments. Furthermore, OMV supports a range of plugins that enhance its functionality, enabling users to easily add services such as media streaming, cloud integration, and backup solutions. While it might not be as graphically appealing as some other NAS software, its straightforward and functional design ensures it gets the job done effectively.

OpenMediaVault is generally considered to be user-friendly, especially for individuals who are new to setting up NAS systems. Despite its somewhat less polished appearance compared to some commercial alternatives, OMV provides a practical and straightforward interface. The installation process, however, can be a bit messy and might require more steps than some users expect. Unlike some other NAS software that offers a streamlined installation from a single USB stick, OMV’s setup may involve creating a bootable drive and configuring the system manually, which can be a bit cumbersome for beginners. Once installed, OMV’s interface is accessible through a web browser, offering a clear and organized layout that simplifies the management of storage, user accounts, and various services. This makes it easy for users to navigate and adjust settings as needed. Although setting up storage options and configuring network services might require a bit of learning for those new to NAS, OMV provides extensive documentation and community support to help users through the process.

When comparing OpenMediaVault to UnRAID, several differences become evident. UnRAID is often highlighted for its ease of use and straightforward setup, which typically involves a quick installation process using a USB stick, making it very accessible for those new to NAS systems. UnRAID’s approach allows for flexible use of different types and sizes of storage drives without needing complex configurations, which is particularly appealing for users who want to mix and match their storage options. OpenMediaVault, while also user-friendly, offers a more traditional approach to storage setups and a broader range of network services and plugins, which may appeal to users looking for more control and customization. Although OMV might require a bit more effort to fully understand and set up, and its graphical interface may not be as modern or visually appealing as that of UnRAID, it provides a strong balance of simplicity and advanced features. This makes it a robust choice for a wide range of users who are interested in building their own NAS systems without incurring additional costs for software.

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HexOS – A NAS OS Designed for Ease of Use and Performance

Price: TBC – Features 6/10 (Still WiP) – Ease of Use TBC – Release May 2024/2025 – DOWNLOAD (Beta Soon)

Now, this one is something of a wild card, as HexOS not only seems to be attempting to straddle multiple different elements that are present in other operating systems featured in this article, but it is also still unreleased! HexOS is an in-development network-attached storage software that is being developed by two former UnRAID team members, but is powered by TrueNAS Scale (the Linux version of TrueNAS). At the time of writing, a beta is scheduled for Q3 2024. The creators have been keen to highlight that this new NAS operating system is designed with simplicity and broad accessibility as its primary focus, hoping to combat the need for complex networking understanding and providing an extremely simplified GUI—promising to cut down on the jargon and the headaches, but still benefit from high performance and hardware freedom of use.

It is a very bold claim to state, and as this list and videos I’ve made online have been keen to highlight, achieving simplicity, performance, stability, and security on a network-attached storage system in a way that novices will still be able to effectively use is truly the holy grail of NAS operating systems. Early images of the intended dashboard and GUI of the software have proved promising, alongside quite bold statements as to what this software will be able to achieve while still maintaining that simplified UX.

Likewise, notoriety around this in-development NAS OS was also largely increased when popular tech YouTuber Linus of Linus Tech Tips declared that he had invested $250,000 in the NAS OS startup. This, combined with the implied cooperation of TrueNAS and their platform, all add up to some intriguing breadcrumbs that could eventually lead to another great user-friendly NAS software option in the market in the next year or so.

Realistically, even if this software arrives in a public beta later this year, networking software (NAS, routers, etc.) needs a whole lot of stress testing, pen testing, stability checks, QA, and troubleshooting before they can confidently be publicly released, so maybe don’t expect this platform to arrive formally until 2025. Nevertheless, I wanted to include them in this list for those who are looking a little further into the future for when they set up their own private-built NAS solution.

DOWNLOAD (Beta Soon)

What About TrueNAS Core and TrueNAS Scale?

Even if you spent just five minutes looking at recommended software to install on your own DIY and BYO NAS system, chances are the NAS software TrueNAS already appeared on your radar! It would be fair to say that they are currently the number one recommended NAS operating system for those looking for a highly configurable and highly powerful private server solution. However, it would also be fair to say that TrueNAS is NOT a user-friendly platform! If you know what you are doing and have networking or data storage protocol experience under your belt, then TrueNAS Core and TrueNAS Scale won’t be too difficult to wrap your head around.

However, the majority of inexperienced or even computer amateur users are going to very quickly hit technical knowledge walls and misunderstandings very early on! Concepts such as storage pools and volumes, although very common amongst NAS OS software choices, are still presented in a very complex form in TrueNAS Core (though arguably, this presentation has been softened in TrueNAS Scale, the Linux variation). Even getting into simple storage access on a file/folder level on TrueNAS Core can be extremely complicated if you only want to manage this via the web browser. Installation of add-on applications utilizing the unique and secure jail system is noticeably more complex than in any other brand out there, and let’s not even get started on how much command line a user needs to either understand or be ready to hands-on utilize to make the most of the system.

This may all sound tremendously unfair, as TrueNAS Scale and TrueNAS Core do have very well laid out and comparatively intuitive GUIs that are accessible via the web browser, allowing for a full range of control and configuration without the need for a command line. However, the language that is utilized throughout these options is nowhere near as intuitive as other options on this list. And if you are looking for software that doesn’t have a steep learning curve, TrueNAS will prove a challenge for most average users.

That said, TrueNAS Core and the more adaptable TrueNAS Scale are still among the most powerful and capable operating systems you will ever install on a NAS server system, and if you’re prepared to put in the hours, you are going to have a phenomenally capable and secure system at your fingertips.

I hope you found this article helpful. Below is a breakdown of some recommended first-time NAS hardware configurations for $250, $500, and $1,000. If this article has helped you, and you want to dig a little further, there are also links below to dedicated DIY NAS and videos to help you get started on your journey towards owning your own data!

Method	Turn-Key NAS (Synology/QNAP/etc)	Build Your Own / DiY NAS
‘Out the Box’ Setup time (i.e when it’s 100% setup complete and ready for day-to-day use)	20-30 Minutes for Build & Initialization 10mins to 12 Hours for RAID Synchronization (ZFS = Minutes, not hours)	60-120 Minutes for Build & Initialization 10mins to 12 Hours for RAID Synchronization (ZFS = Minutes, not hours)
I.T / Tech Skill Level Requirements (Out of /10)	Synology = 2/10 QNAP 5/10 Asustor / Terramaster = 4/10	TrueNAS Core = 9/10 TrueNAS Scale = 7/10 UnRAID = 6 / 10
Monthly Maintenance (Checking update, stability, logs, etc)	10-15 Minutes	20-30 Minutes
Expandability and Migration (i.e Long term lifespan in Hardware)	Limited to 1st Party hardware and system limitations (i.e Synolgoy DS923+ supports 1x 5-bay expansion, nothing else. Also, Synology NAS HDD/SSDs can ONLY be used in a Synology NAS) More Expansions on QNAP, via USB or SAS Expansion Cards	No hardware limitations (beyond actual 3rd party hardware compatibility) Can migrate to new hardware easily and with limitless scalability (i.e, 1-1000 HDDs) UnRAID much, MUCH more expandable than TrueNAS currently.
Warranty and Repairs (Options if the event of Issues and/or System Failure)	2/3/5 Year Hardware Warranty, 1 Party (Brand) Effective Lifetime Support and Warranty Included	Multiple Hardware Warranty to manage (Mobo, CPU, PSU, etc) Community led Support (Forums, Reddit, etc) Paid Support via TrueNAS/UnRAID Official Platforms)

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Jonsbo N3 + Intel Core i5 12th Gen + 16GB RAM + 10GbE Build Jonsbo N3 Case ￡94.25 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE 2x SATA 6 Connector ￡4.19 (note only need 8x, but cheaper to buy 2×6) – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE 400W SFX PSU ￡24.36 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE B660M ITX Motherboard £235.79 + Intel Core i5 12490F CPU + 16GB RAM – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE ARGB CPU Radiator Fan (LGA1700) ￡13.38 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE (better option for CPU Fan) Noctua NH-L9x65 CPU Cooler £49 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE X540-T2 Intel Chipset PCIe x8 Dual Copper RJ45 10Gbps ￡39.34 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Tbkoly Controller Card Motherboard Expansion Card 1 To 5 Port SATA £20.45 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE (Optional) 2x M.2 NVMe PCIe 4 X 8 Card GLOTRENDS Dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Total $410.65 (i5 CPU + 16GB RAM + 2x10GbE + 400W PSU + Case + Cables) Note, you need an SSD for TrueNAS OS (USB for UnRAID)

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Here are ALL the Motherboard+CPU Combos that we cover in this article: (The Best) i3-N305 M-ITX BoardCheck AliExpress ($289-349 with Memory) HERE and Amazon HERE (Best for PLEX) Erying 13th Gen i9 Combo 14C / 20T $459  HERE (Plex Alternative #1) Erying 12th Gen I9 Combo 14C / 20T $389 HERE (Plex Alternative #2) Erying 11th Gen i7 8C / 16T = $262  HERE (Best Storage) X99 Motherboard + 32GB RAM = $158 HERE or E5-2680 V.4 CPU + 32GB RAM = $176  HERE (Best Value) Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $229 HERE (Best Value EXTRA) Intel N6005 + Motherboard + 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD = $275 HERE AMAZON – Intel N6005 + Motherboard = $169 HERE

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Jonsbo N3 + Gen4/5 MoBo + Intel Core i5 12th Gen with Int Gfx + 32GB RAM + 10GbE Build Jonsbo N3 Case ￡94.25 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE 2X SATA 6 Connector ￡4.19 (note only need 8x, but cheaper to buy 2×6) – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE 600W SFX PSU ￡43.78 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Asrock Z690M-ITX/AX gEN 4/5 Motherboard £171.20 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Gen £239 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Re: CPU, features: 1 x 2.5 Gigabit LAN 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E Module 1 x PCIe Gen5x16 Slot* 4 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s Connectors 1 x Hyper M.2 Socket (M2_1, Key M), supports type 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 (64 Gb/s) mode* • 1 x Hyper M.2 Socket (M2_2, Key M), supports type 2280 SATA3 6.0 Gb/s & PCIe Gen4x4 (64 Gb/s) modes* * Supports NVMe SSD as boot disks * Supports ASRock U.2 Kit Corsair VENGEANCE LPX DDR4 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) £59.99 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE ARGB CPU Radiator Fan (LGA1700) ￡13.38 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE (better option for CPU Fan) Noctua NH-L9x65 CPU Cooler £49 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE X540-T2 Intel Chipset PCIe x8 Dual Copper RJ45 10Gbps ￡39.34 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Tbkoly Controller Card Motherboard Expansion Card 1 To 5 Port SATA £20.45 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE (Optional) 2x M.2 NVMe PCIe 4 X 8 Card GLOTRENDS Dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 – Check Amazon HERE – Check AliExpress HERE Total £586.63 (Amazon) + ￡144.76 (Aliexpress) Note, you need an SSD for TrueNAS OS (USB for UnRAID)

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