Top 5 Best NAS Devices
Discover the top 5 NAS devices, featuring in-depth reviews of Synology DS920+, QNAP TS-451D2, WD My Cloud EX2, Asustor AS5304T, and TerraMaster F2-221.
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Top 5 Best NAS Devices! Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a small business owner, or someone in dire need of a reliable storage solution, Network-Attached Storage (NAS) devices are game-changers for data management and accessibility. In this article, we'll explore the crème de la crème of NAS devices available today, diving deep into detailed reviews to help you make an informed decision.
Our journey begins with the highly acclaimed Synology DS920+, followed by an insightful look into the versatile QNAP TS-451D2. We'll also delve into the user-friendly Western Digital My Cloud EX2, the powerful Asustor AS5304T, and the budget-friendly yet robust TerraMaster F2-221. Each review will cover essential features, performance metrics, and unique selling points.
Get ready to unlock the full potential of your network storage with our expertly curated selections. Read on to find the perfect NAS device that suits your needs!
Review of Synology DS920+
The Synology DS920+ is like the MVP of NAS (Network Attached Storage) devices. If your world revolves around storing loads of data, whether it be for work, gaming, or a personal media library, this little box might just be your next best friend.
Design and Build
First off, the DS920+ is sleek. It's a matte black box with a tidy and somewhat minimalist design, making it easy to tuck away in any room without it looking like a sci-fi experiment. The build is solid, featuring a mix of sturdy plastic and a metal frame. It's got four drive bays right upfront that make swapping hard drives a breeze. A small detail, but definitely worth noting-each bay comes with a screw-less tray, meaning no tools needed!
Power Under the Hood
When it comes to performance, the DS920+ doesn't fool around. Packed inside is an Intel Celeron J4125 processor, which might not sound super flashy, but trust me, it gets the job done. It’s a quad-core chip that can handle multiple users and apps without slowing down. On top of that, it comes with 4GB of RAM, but if you're feeling fancy, you can upgrade it to 8GB.
What does this mean for you? Smooth sailing when you're streaming HD videos, backing up files, or even running virtual machines. Plus, let's not overlook the dual NVMe SSD slots for cache acceleration. That’s just geek-speak for "Your files load really fast."
User-Friendly Interface
One of the best things about the DS920+ is its operating system, DiskStation Manager (DSM). DSM is like the iOS of NAS devices, super intuitive and easy to navigate. Whether you're a tech wizard or a newbie, it doesn't take long to get the hang of it. The apps on DSM range from media servers to security apps, so you can customize it to fit your needs.
Connectivity Galore
Networking options? Oh, it’s got them. The DS920+ includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports for ultra-fast wired connections. Even if one port fails, three more are ready to keep things running smoothly. And let's not forget the two USB 3.0 ports and an eSATA port for extra connectivity. So, whether you're linking it to other devices or adding more storage, the DS920+ has you covered.
Advanced Features
Okay, let's get into some of the nerdier stuff. The DS920+ offers robust data protection and security options. You get stuff like RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) setups, which essentially mean your data is backed up across multiple drives. If one drive decides to quit its job, your data stays safe. There’s also encryption options for those extra-sensitive files and even surveillance features if you want to use the NAS for security cameras.
Real-World Performance
In real-world use, the DS920+ is a workhorse. Data transfers are snappy, and streaming media, like your movie collection or all those game clips, is practically flawless. Photos, videos, large documents-it handles them all like a champ. And the best part? It's whisper-quiet. Even under heavy use, the fans barely make a peep.
Final Thoughts
The Synology DS920+ is pretty much a no-brainer if you’re serious about your storage. It’s reliable, powerful, and user-friendly. Sure, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but what you get for your money is well worth it. For anyone looking to beef up their data storage, run apps off a speedy NAS, or keep everything secure and organized, the DS920+ is top-tier.
Now, go conquer the world-or at least your digital files-with this beast of a NAS device.
Review of QNAP TS-451D2
When you're diving into the world of Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, the QNAP TS-451D2 is one you can't miss. This little box packs a serious punch and could be the perfect addition to your home or small office network. Let's break down what makes the TS-451D2 stand out.
Setting Up
First things first, setting up this NAS is super straightforward. You don't need to be a tech wizard to get it going.
- Unbox It: Inside the box, you'll find the TS-451D2 unit, a power adapter, Ethernet cables, and mounting screws.
- Install the Drives: The TS-451D2 supports up to 4 hard drives. You can easily slide them into the trays without fuss.
- Boot It Up: Plug it in, connect it to your router, and power it up.
- Configuration: Simply log into QNAP’s QTS interface via a web browser, follow the wizard, and you're good to go!
Specifications
The TS-451D2 isn't just about storage; it's got some solid specs under the hood:
- Processor: Intel Celeron J4025 dual-core at 2.0 GHz (bursts up to 2.9 GHz)
- Memory: 2GB DDR4 RAM (upgradeable to 8GB)
- Storage: Up to 64TB (with 4 x 16TB HDDs)
- Ports: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, and HDMI output
This spec sheet might look complicated, but all you need to know is that it’s powerful enough to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Performance
The TS-451D2 is all about speed and reliability. With its Intel Celeron processor and the ability to upgrade RAM, you can ensure smooth operation even under heavy workloads.
Data Transfer: The dual Gigabit Ethernet ports provide fast data transfer, reducing lag and boosting efficiency. You can also link both ports for even faster speeds.
Transcoding: It supports 4K video transcoding, which is essential if you intend to stream high-definition videos.
Apps and More: The QTS operation system has a plethora of apps, ranging from personal cloud storage management to multimedia streaming. Whether you’re a small business owner or a home user, these apps can significantly enhance productivity.
Security
Security is always a concern when dealing with large amounts of data. The TS-451D2 takes this seriously with its built-in security features:
- AES-NI Hardware Encryption: Keeps your files safe from unauthorized access without compromising speed.
- Two-Step Verification: An extra layer of protection during login.
- Virus and Malware Protection: Integrated software that scans for potential threats.
Pros & Cons
No product is perfect, and the TS-451D2 has its ups and downs:
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use, even for newbies.
- Strong performance and 4K transcoding.
- Versatile with loads of apps.
- Upgradeable RAM.
Cons:
- No 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports - might be a bummer for some.
- The fan can be a bit noisy under full load.
- It’s a bit pricey compared to some other NAS options.
Final Thoughts
The QNAP TS-451D2 deserves its spot among the top NAS devices. It brings a mix of power, flexibility, and ease of use. Whether you’re streaming 4K videos, running a small office, or just need a reliable way to back up your data, this NAS has got you covered. While it's a bit of an investment, it’s one that pays off with excellent performance and tons of features.
If you're looking to step up your data storage game, you can't go wrong with the TS-451D2.
Review of Western Digital My Cloud EX2
The Western Digital My Cloud EX2 is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device that's made to store all your important files and media. Whether it's family photos, music, or work documents, this device helps keep everything safe and easy to access.
Simple Setup
One of the best features about the My Cloud EX2 is how easy it is to set up. Even if you're not super tech-savvy, you can get this baby up and running in no time. Just connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable, plug it into the power outlet, and the setup wizard will guide you through the rest. You'll have your own cloud storage in minutes.
Storage Options
The My Cloud EX2 comes with various storage options ranging from diskless (meaning you have to add your own drives) to configurations with up to 20TB. That’s a lot of space! Just imagine the countless movies, songs, games, and backup files you can store.
Performance
When it comes to speed, the EX2 performs well. It has a powerful dual-core processor and 1GB of RAM, which helps in handling multiple tasks at once. Whether you’re streaming a movie in the living room or uploading photos from your phone, it manages to keep things running smoothly.
Data Protection
The EX2 also brings top-notch data protection features. It supports RAID 0, 1, and JBOD (Just a Bunch of Disks). For those not in the know, RAID 1 mirrors your data across two drives, so if one fails, your data isn't lost. Always handy to have that peace of mind.
Remote Access
One super cool feature is the ability to access your files remotely. Using the My Cloud app, you can access your files from anywhere around the world. Whether you’re on vacation or at a coffee shop, all your files are just a tap away.
Media Streaming
If you're into media streaming, this NAS has you covered. It supports Plex Media Server, so you can organize and stream all your media files directly from the NAS to any device. It’s like having your own personal Netflix server.
User-Friendly Interface
The web-based dashboard is very user-friendly. From there, you can manage your storage settings, user accounts, and backup schedules with ease. Even adding new apps and updates is a breeze thanks to the intuitive layout.
Drawbacks
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some users have reported that the device can get a bit noisy, especially when it’s working hard. It's also not the cheapest NAS out there, so if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Western Digital My Cloud EX2 is a solid choice for anyone looking to up their storage game. With easy setup, high performance, and the ability to access your files from anywhere, it’s a fantastic addition to your home or small office. Despite a few minor drawbacks, it stands as a reliable and user-friendly option in the NAS market.
Review of Asustor AS5304T
Alright, let's dive into the Asustor AS5304T-this beast of a NAS device is rocking the home storage game.
Design & Build Quality
The AS5304T looks sleek-like a tiny, high-tech fortress for your data. Its black and red design feels premium, and it's sturdy enough to take on everyday usage. At the front, you've got a slick LED display showing you important stuff like network activity and drive status, which is pretty cool. Accessing drives is super simple too, thanks to its easy-slide trays.
Performance & Hardware
Under the hood, the AS5304T isn't messing around. It's powered by an Intel Celeron J4105 quad-core processor, paired with 4GB of DDR4 RAM, expandable up to 8GB. Speed is the name of the game here, and this NAS delivers. It can handle 4K streaming and real-time transcoding, making it perfect for media enthusiasts. Plus, with dual 2.5GbE ports, you're looking at faster-than-usual data transfers.
Storage & Expansion
Let's talk storage. The AS5304T can house up to 64TB across its four drive bays. So, whether you're storing family photos, videos, or important documents, this NAS has room to spare. And if that's not enough, you can expand it with external drives through its three USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. Flexibility is a big plus here.
Software & Features
What really sets the AS5304T apart is its software. Asustor's ADM (Asustor Data Master) OS is user-friendly and packed with features. From setting up cloud backups to managing media libraries with apps like Plex, it's all straightforward. Cybersecurity is also a priority; the NAS comes with built-in antivirus software and secure access protocols to keep your data safe.
User Experience
Setting up the AS5304T is a walk in the park. Even if you've never used a NAS before, the setup wizard guides you through every step. Daily use is seamless too, whether you're accessing files remotely or streaming movies to your TV.
However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The AS5304T could do with a quieter fan. Under heavy load, it gets a bit noisy. But honestly, if you're stuffing it in a home office or a centralized media closet, you should be good.
Final Thoughts
All things considered, the Asustor AS5304T is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to step up their home network storage game. It combines robust performance with a ton of useful features, and that sleek design is just the cherry on top. If you can handle a bit of fan noise, this NAS is a top contender.
In summary: AS5304T = Powerful, Versatile, and Worth Every Penny.
Back to our list, the AS5304T stands out for its sheer power and flexibility. If you're serious about your data-you won't go wrong with this pick.
Review of TerraMaster F2-221
If you're diving into the world of Network Attached Storage (NAS) and need something reliable without breaking the bank, you might want to check out the TerraMaster F2-221. It's a solid contender in the NAS arena, offering a blend of affordability and features that should appeal to both beginners and seasoned users alike.
Design and Build Quality
First off, let's talk about the design. The TerraMaster F2-221 keeps it simple yet professional. The all-metal body with a silver finish gives it a sturdy feel right out of the box. It's compact, making it easy to fit on a shelf or desk without taking up too much space. This makes it ideal for home use or a small office setup.
The front panel is straightforward, with two drive bays that are easy to access. The LED indicators on the front let you know the status of your drives and the network connection at a glance, which is pretty handy. Overall, the F2-221 looks sleek but doesn't shout for attention-perfect for blending into any environment.
Performance and Features
Now, onto the meat and potatoes. The F2-221 is powered by an Intel J3355 dual-core 2.0 GHz processor, which can be burst up to 2.5 GHz. It may not sound like much, but this little chip does a good job of handling everyday NAS tasks. With 2GB of RAM (expandable to 8GB), it ensures smooth multitasking whether you're backing up data, streaming media, or running apps.
One of the standout features is the support for 4K video transcoding. Yep, you read that right. If you have high-definition movies stored, the F2-221 can handle streaming them to your devices without breaking a sweat.
The TerraMaster F2-221 also runs on the TOS (TerraMaster Operating System), which is user-friendly and intuitive. It offers a bunch of apps through the TOS Application Center, covering everything from backup solutions to media servers. RAID support? Check. It covers RAID 0, 1, JBOD, and Single Disk, giving you flexibility based on your specific needs.
Connectivity and Expansion
Connectivity options are pretty solid. The F2-221 includes two Gigabit Ethernet ports, which means you can set up link aggregation for faster transfer speeds. This is a great feature if you're dealing with large files or multiple users accessing the NAS simultaneously.
For additional connectivity, there are some USB 3.0 ports at the back, perfect for adding external storage or connecting devices like printers.
Setup and User Experience
Setting up the TerraMaster F2-221 is a breeze. Just pop in your drives, plug it into your network, and follow the on-screen instructions. The TOS interface walks you through the rest, and in no time, you'll have your NAS up and running.
The TOS system itself is pretty straightforward to navigate. There's less of a learning curve here compared to some other NAS systems, making it a good pick if you're not super tech-savvy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact and sturdy design
- 4K video transcoding capability
- Easy to set up and use
- Good range of features and apps via TOS
Cons
- Not the most powerful NAS on the market
- Plastic drive trays feel a bit flimsy
Conclusion
The TerraMaster F2-221 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to dip their toes into the NAS world. It's affordable, easy to use, and packed with enough features to keep most users happy. While it may not be the most powerful option out there, it balances performance and price quite well. Whether you're backing up family photos, storing work documents, or streaming your movie collection, the F2-221 has got you covered.
So, if you're in the market for a NAS that won't let you down but also won't drain your wallet, the TerraMaster F2-221 is definitely worth considering.