When selecting a 4 bay NAS, buyers face a range of options that balance performance, features, and price. The best overall pick, Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+, offers robust hardware and versatile connectivity. Standouts like the Synology DS423 excel in user-friendly software, while some models emphasize raw power, such as the UGREEN DXP4800 Pro. Tradeoffs often involve balancing cost against features like speed, expandability, or ease of use. Keep reading to see a detailed comparison and find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Performance hardware varies significantly, with some models offering high-speed Ethernet and powerful CPUs for demanding tasks.
- Pre-installed drives are rare; most models are diskless, requiring buyers to select and install their own drives, which impacts total cost.
- User interface and software support, especially from brands like Synology and Asustor, greatly influence ease of management.
- Connectivity options differ, with some models boasting dual 10GbE ports or HDMI output, catering to specific workflows.
- Price points span from budget-friendly to premium, with the most expensive options often including high-end CPUs and features for advanced users.
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core CPU, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server |  | Best Overall for Media and Small Business Use | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | Memory: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB) | Network Ports: Dual 5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives Included |  | Best Value for Small Office Storage Needs | Digital Storage Capacity: 16 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA-600 | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Desktop NAS with AMD R2514 CPU, 8GB DDR4 RAM, Dual 10GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for Power Users and Advanced Media/Virtualization Tasks | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | Cores: 4 cores | Threads: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS423 Family & Business Backup – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Security-Conscious Users Needing Reliable Backup | Model Number: DS423 | Warranty: 2 years | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Business Environments Requiring Speed and Multi-User Access | Brand: Synology | Model: DS425+ | Warranty: 3 years | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Scalability and Versatility | Model: DS925+ | Drive Bays: 4 (diskless) | Maximum Drive Support: 9 with expansion | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Home and Small Office Media Streaming | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core |  | Best for Power-Driven Media and Data Workflows | Processor: Intel x86 Quad-Core | RAM: 4GB | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Family and Personal Storage Needs | Digital Storage Capacity: 120 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay Desktop NAS |  | Best for High-Performance Professional Use and Virtualization | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Max Storage: 144TB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 32TB with Hard Drives Included |  | Best Value for Small Office Setup | Digital Storage Capacity: 32 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA-600 | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, Built-in 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for High-Performance Small Office and Power Users | Digital Storage Capacity: 144 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| bay na | Processor |
|---|---|
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay De | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 |
| Synology DS423 Family & Busine | — |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | — |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS w | Intel x86 Quad-Core |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay D | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay D | Intel Core i3-1315U |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay | Intel Pentium Gold 8505 5-Core |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core CPU, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ stands out for its combination of high-speed networking and media capabilities, making it ideal for small businesses or media enthusiasts who need fast transfers and transcoding. Unlike the Synology DS423, it offers hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output, which are essential for media playback directly on the device. Its dual 5GbE ports support link aggregation, providing a clear advantage over less versatile options like the BUFFALO TeraStation, which relies on a single 2.5GbE connection. The support for both SATA and NVMe SSDs offers flexible storage options, but the setup requires some technical knowledge, and the device is diskless out of the box, adding initial costs. Its expandable RAM up to 16GB enhances performance during intensive tasks, though out-of-the-box memory is limited to 4GB. Overall, this NAS is ideal for users balancing media, small business, and flexible storage needs, willing to handle a slightly complex setup.
Pros:- High-speed dual 5GbE network ports for fast data transfer
- Supports both SATA and NVMe SSDs for flexible storage options
- Hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output for media playback
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB for performance tuning
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for initial setup and configuration
- No included drives, increasing upfront cost
- Limited RAM out of the box, upgrade needed for heavy multitasking
Best for: Tech-savvy small business owners or media creators who need high-speed, multimedia-capable NAS with expandability
Not ideal for: Users seeking a plug-and-play solution with minimal setup or those on a tight budget, as initial costs can increase with drives and RAM upgrades
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Memory:4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
- Drive Bays:4
- SSD Slots:4 M.2 NVMe
- Video Output:HDMI
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/JBOD
Our verdict“This NAS suits experienced users who need powerful media features and flexible storage, accepting a more involved setup process.”
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives Included
The BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 offers a straightforward, ready-to-use solution with pre-installed drives, making it ideal for small offices or those who want a simple, reliable setup. Compared to the Synology DS423, which requires separate drive purchase and setup, the TeraStation comes fully equipped, saving time and reducing initial complexity. Its 2.5GbE port delivers solid transfer speeds for its class, though it falls behind the dual 10GbE options like the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT. The included 16TB of storage makes it suitable for small teams with moderate data needs, but capacity is fixed unless you upgrade with additional drives, which could be costly. Its design is somewhat bulky, which might not suit tight spaces. Overall, this NAS offers excellent value for users prioritizing quick deployment and reliable backup in a small office environment.
Pros:- Pre-installed hard drives with RAID configuration for easy setup
- High-speed 2.5GbE network port suitable for small offices
- Reliable brand with a 3-year warranty and US-based support
- Includes drives, reducing initial setup time
Cons:- Limited to 16TB capacity unless replaced or expanded
- Bulkier design may not fit in tight spaces
- Fixed onboard storage limits future scalability
Best for: Small businesses or home offices needing pre-configured, easy-to-deploy storage with included drives
Not ideal for: Power users seeking extensive expansion options or higher network speeds for demanding environments
- Digital Storage Capacity:16 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA-600
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet
- Additional Features:Hard drives included, Small office economical storage
- Form Factor:3.5-inch
- Hard Disk Rotational Speed:5400 rpm
- Data Transfer Rate:2.5 Gbps
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for small office setups that value simplicity and immediate readiness over extensive customization.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Desktop NAS with AMD R2514 CPU, 8GB DDR4 RAM, Dual 10GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT targets power users who need robust multitasking, extensive storage, and advanced features like virtualization and surveillance. Its AMD Ryzen embedded processor offers significant processing power compared to the Intel Celeron in the Lockerstor, making it ideal for running multiple virtual machines or media servers like Plex with ease. The dual 10GbE ports support high-throughput networking, surpassing the BUFFALO or Synology models, especially for large-scale data transfers. Its expandable RAM up to 64GB and multiple M.2 NVMe slots enable extensive storage and performance customization, but drives are not included, adding to total cost. The setup complexity is higher, especially for configuring Docker or surveillance features, which might be overwhelming for less experienced users. This pick is best for those who want a high-performance, versatile NAS capable of handling demanding workloads.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen R2514 processor with multitasking capability
- Supports extensive storage expansion up to 144TB
- Dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation for maximum throughput
- Supports virtualization, Docker, and surveillance applications
Cons:- Drives not included, increasing total cost
- Complex setup for advanced features, requiring technical skills
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, limited for critical enterprise use
Best for: IT professionals or tech-savvy home users needing virtualization, high-speed networking, and large-scale storage capabilities
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking an out-of-the-box, easy-to-set-up NAS with minimal configuration
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- Cores:4 cores
- Threads:8
- Memory:8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB)
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2
- Network:2x 10GbE ports
- Max Storage:up to 144TB
Our verdict“This NAS appeals to power users and professionals who need maximum performance and flexibility, accepting a steeper learning curve.”
Synology DS423 Family & Business Backup – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS423 prioritizes data security and ease of use, making it a top choice for small businesses or families focused on backups and secure sharing. Its simple setup contrasts with the complex configurations of the UGREEN or high-end Synology DS425+, but it still offers robust features like private cloud access and comprehensive file sharing. Support for up to 30 IP cameras with optional licenses makes it versatile for surveillance, though camera licensing adds to the initial investment. Without drives included, it requires additional purchase, but its well-regarded software ecosystem simplifies management. The two-year warranty provides peace of mind, though technical setup may challenge less experienced users. Overall, this model suits those who need reliable, secure storage with a straightforward interface.
Pros:- Secure private cloud access and file sharing
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with optional licenses
- Reliable hardware with 2-year warranty
- Well-supported Synology ecosystem for easy management
Cons:- Camera licenses must be purchased separately
- No included drives, adding to initial costs
- Limited advanced multimedia or virtualization features
Best for: Home or small business users prioritizing secure backups and easy management without complex virtualization or multimedia features
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking high-speed networking or extensive multimedia capabilities, as it lacks hardware transcoding or dual 10GbE ports
- Model Number:DS423
- Warranty:2 years
- Number of Bays:4
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Supports IP Cameras:Up to 30 (license required)
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for users seeking dependable, secure backup and media sharing with minimal fuss and strong data protection.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ is tailored for professionals needing fast, reliable data sharing and surveillance support. Its network speed of 278 MB/s outperforms many competitors, including the UGREEN DXP4800 GT, especially in multi-user environments. Its support for 30 IP cameras adds surveillance flexibility, while the 3-year warranty offers extended peace of mind. The device’s design emphasizes performance and stability, but setup can be technical, and since drives are not included, total cost rises with additional purchases. For users who prioritize speed, security, and multi-user access, this NAS offers a balanced package, though it may be overkill for casual or home users.
Pros:- High network transfer speeds of 278 MB/s
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with optional licenses
- Supports multi-user access with robust data protections
- Three-year warranty for extended reliability
Cons:- Requires technical setup and management
- Drives not included, increasing overall cost
- Higher initial investment compared to entry-level options
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses needing high-speed data transfer and comprehensive surveillance support
Not ideal for: Home users or casual users who don’t require enterprise-level speeds or multiple camera integrations
- Brand:Synology
- Model:DS425+
- Warranty:3 years
- Network Speed:278 MB/s
- Supported Cameras:30 IP cameras
- Form Factor:Desktop
- Disk Bays:4
Our verdict“This NAS is suited for professional environments demanding fast data access and extensive surveillance, accepting a more involved setup process.”
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ stands out for its ability to grow with your needs, supporting up to nine drives with an expansion unit, which makes it ideal for users who anticipate increasing storage over time. Its dual 2.5GbE ports ensure fast network transfers, surpassing many competitors like the Asustor Drivestor 4, which only offers a single 1GbE port. The DiskStation Manager interface offers a broad suite of applications, making this suitable for both data management and surveillance. The main tradeoff is that it requires additional drives to reach full capacity, and the setup process can be intimidating for those new to NAS systems. Price varies based on configuration, but the ability to expand and run versatile services makes this an excellent choice for growing businesses or tech-savvy home users.
Pros:- Supports scalable storage with expansion unit compatibility
- Fast dual 2.5GbE network ports for quick data transfer
- Runs Synology DiskStation Manager for extensive app support
Cons:- Requires additional drives for maximum storage capacity
- Complex setup process may deter beginners
Best for: Small businesses or advanced home users needing scalable storage and versatile application support.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS with minimal setup and no expansion plans.
- Model:DS925+
- Drive Bays:4 (diskless)
- Maximum Drive Support:9 with expansion
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read/Write Throughput:522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for users who need a flexible, expandable NAS with robust software features and are comfortable with a more involved setup.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 appeals to home users and small offices looking for reliable media streaming and flexible RAID options. Its 1.7GHz quad-core processor paired with 1GB DDR4 RAM provides decent performance, but falls short of the TERRAMASTER F4-425’s more powerful specs, making it less suited for heavy multitasking. The 2.5GbE port offers faster transfer speeds than traditional Gigabit Ethernet, beneficial for media-heavy tasks. Its robust metal enclosure adds durability, yet the setup can be complex for beginners, especially those unfamiliar with RAID configurations or NAS systems. It lacks included drives, so buyers should be prepared for additional investment. Compared to the TerraMaster, it offers more streamlined media features but less raw processing power for intensive workflows.
Pros:- High-speed 2.5GbE network for faster data transfer
- Flexible RAID configurations including 5/6/10 for redundancy
- Supports 4K media streaming and personal cloud
Cons:- Limited RAM for multitasking-intensive applications
- No included drives, requiring additional purchase
- Setup may be challenging for less tech-savvy users
Best for: Home users or small offices prioritizing media streaming and flexible RAID options.
Not ideal for: Power users needing high RAM or intensive multitasking, due to limited memory capacity.
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Number of Bays:4
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/10
- USB Ports:3
- Enclosure Material:Metal
Our verdict“This NAS is a solid choice for media-centric users who want flexible RAID options and faster network speeds but can handle a more involved setup.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 is designed for power users who need serious multitasking capability, thanks to its Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM. It excels at 4K transcoding, media streaming, and multi-user environments, outperforming the Asustor in raw processing power. Its quiet operation at 21dB ensures it doesn’t disturb home environments, and the tool-free HDD trays simplify setup. However, its single network port limits throughput compared to models with multiple high-speed ports like the UGREEN DXP4800, and with no included drives, it requires further investment. This NAS is best suited for those who need substantial performance and are comfortable with a more complex setup, making it less ideal for casual users or those with limited technical experience.
Pros:- Powerful Intel quad-core processor for demanding tasks
- Supports 4K transcoding and multi-device streaming
- Quiet operation and tool-free HDD installation
Cons:- Requires additional drives for storage, adding to cost
- Limited to 4 bays, restricting maximum expansion
- No included drives, diskless by default
Best for: Power users demanding high-performance media transcoding, multitasking, and multi-user support.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a plug-and-play experience, due to setup complexity and higher cost.
- Processor:Intel x86 Quad-Core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Max Storage:120TB
- Network Interface:1 x 10GbE, 1 x 1GbE
- Supported Apps:Plex, Docker, Virtual Machines
Our verdict“This NAS makes sense for professional or prosumer users needing high processing power and media capabilities, accepting a higher price and setup effort.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus is an entry-level, family-focused NAS offering large storage capacity up to 128TB, with user-friendly AI photo management and remote access. Its straightforward setup and compatibility with multiple devices make it appealing for users who prioritize simple personal storage solutions. Unlike the Synology or TerraMaster options, it emphasizes ease of use over extensive customization, but the lack of Wi-Fi support and the need to purchase drives separately can be limitations for some. Its AI features add value for photo organization, and its wired Ethernet ensures stable connections, but it’s not ideal for those wanting wireless or virtual machine support. This pick is best for families needing large, accessible storage without the complexity of advanced features.
Pros:- Supports large storage capacity up to 128TB
- AI photo management for recognition and duplicates
- User-friendly setup with remote access
Cons:- No Wi-Fi, limited to wired Ethernet
- Supports Docker but not full virtual machines
- Requires separate purchase of drives
Best for: Home users and families seeking large storage with easy management and AI photo features.
Not ideal for: Power users or tech enthusiasts who need virtual machine support or Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Digital Storage Capacity:120 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Diskless:Yes
- Hardware Connectivity:USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Supported Applications:Docker, Plex
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for families or casual users seeking large, easy-to-manage storage with smart photo features, but it lacks wireless connectivity and advanced virtualization.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay Desktop NAS
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro caters to demanding workflows with its robust Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB DDR5 RAM, and support for virtualization and Docker containers. Its extensive feature set—including 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports, dual M.2 NVMe slots, and 128GB SSD—caters to professionals handling media editing, server hosting, or development environments. Compared with the TerraMaster F4-425, it offers significantly more processing power and advanced networking, but its diskless nature means buyers must invest in drives separately, adding complexity and cost. The aluminum enclosure and cooling system support intensive workloads. This device is overkill for casual use, but it excels in environments where high throughput, virtualization, and data security are priorities.
Pros:- Powerful Intel Core i3 processor for demanding tasks
- Supports virtualization and Docker containers
- High-speed 10GbE and 2.5GbE network ports
Cons:- Requires additional drives, increasing setup cost
- Complex for users unfamiliar with enterprise features
- Higher price point suited for professional use
Best for: Professionals or enterprise users managing complex workflows, virtual machines, or media editing environments.
Not ideal for: Casual or home users without the need for virtualization or high-speed networking, due to its complexity and higher price point.
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Max Storage:144TB
- Network Interfaces:10GbE, 2.5GbE
- Supports:Docker, Virtual Machines
- Form Factor:Desktop
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for high-end users who need extensive processing, virtualization, and advanced networking, accepting a steeper learning curve and cost.”
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 32TB with Hard Drives Included
The BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 stands out for its straightforward setup and included hard drives, making it a compelling choice for small offices seeking a reliable, ready-to-go solution. Compared to the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus, which offers higher performance and customization but requires separate hard drives, this model simplifies deployment with pre-installed drives and RAID options that protect data without complex configuration. The 2.5GbE port ensures faster network speeds than typical Gigabit models, but the slower 5400 rpm drives may limit transfer speeds during large file transfers. Overall, it’s ideal for users prioritizing ease and security over raw performance or expandability, but it isn’t suited for demanding tasks like virtualization or extensive media editing.
Pros:- Pre-installed hard drives with RAID for quick deployment
- Fast 2.5GbE network port improves transfer speeds over standard Gigabit
- Reliable brand backing with 3-year warranty and US support
- Secure with 256-bit encryption and cloud options
Cons:- Limited to small office environments, not scalable for larger enterprises
- Hard drives spin at 5400 rpm, which may slow large data transfers
- No included backup software or advanced features for data management
Best for: Small business owners who want a plug-and-play NAS with data protection and minimal setup
Not ideal for: Power users needing advanced features like virtualization or high-speed SSD caching, as it lacks these capabilities and uses slower drives
- Digital Storage Capacity:32 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA-600
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet
- Hard Drive Size:3.5 inches
- Hard Disk Rotational Speed:5400 rpm
- Warranty:3-year warranty including hard drive coverage
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for small offices needing a simple, secure storage solution with minimal fuss.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, Built-in 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus offers impressive power with an Intel Pentium Gold processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM, making it suitable for demanding tasks like virtualization, media streaming, and large data management. Unlike the BUFFALO TeraStation, which is pre-configured and easy to set up, this model requires users to purchase and install their own drives, demanding a higher technical skill level. Its support for up to 144TB and blazing transfer speeds of 1250 MB/s via 10GbE make it a clear choice for those needing rapid access and extensive storage. However, the setup complexity and absence of included drives mean it’s better suited for tech-savvy users and small offices with specific performance needs, rather than those seeking a simple, ready-to-use device.
Pros:- Powerful Intel Pentium Gold processor handles demanding tasks
- Supports up to 144TB of storage for extensive data needs
- Exceptional transfer speeds with 10GbE and USB ports
- Features like Docker and virtual machines for advanced usage
Cons:- Requires separate purchase and installation of hard drives
- No built-in storage or included drives, increasing setup complexity
- Limited Wi-Fi connectivity, relies solely on wired Ethernet
Best for: Small office users or tech enthusiasts who need high-speed data transfer, virtualization, or media server capabilities
Not ideal for: Less experienced users or those wanting an out-of-the-box solution, as it lacks pre-installed drives and has a steeper setup curve
- Digital Storage Capacity:144 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Processor:Intel Pentium Gold 8505 5-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Network Ports:1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE
- Built-in Storage:128GB SSD
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for users who need high performance and expandability, and are comfortable with technical setup.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on a combination of hardware performance, expandability, software usability, and value for money. Priority was given to models that balance robust specs with practical features suitable for home and small business use. We considered connectivity options, drive flexibility, and brand reputation, ensuring each pick addresses different user needs. Rankings reflect a mix of performance benchmarks, ease of setup, and feature sets, with a focus on offering options across various budgets and technical expertise levels.| bay na | Processor |
|---|---|
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay De | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 |
| Synology DS423 Family & Busine | — |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | — |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS w | Intel x86 Quad-Core |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay D | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay D | Intel Core i3-1315U |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay | Intel Pentium Gold 8505 5-Core |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 4 Bay Nas
Choosing the right 4 bay NAS involves evaluating several key factors. Beyond raw specifications, it’s important to consider how the device will integrate into your existing setup, your technical comfort level, and future expansion plans. Making the wrong choice can lead to dissatisfaction or the need for costly upgrades, so understanding these considerations helps ensure long-term satisfaction.Performance and Processor Power
The CPU and RAM determine how well your NAS handles multitasking, media streaming, or backup operations. For basic file storage and occasional use, a modest dual-core CPU may suffice. However, for media transcoding, virtualization, or heavy data workloads, opting for a more powerful processor ensures smoother performance and future-proofing. Keep in mind that more capable hardware usually comes at a higher price but can justify the investment if your needs grow.
Connectivity and Expansion Options
Look for NAS models with multiple Ethernet ports, ideally 10GbE if high-speed network transfers are a priority. HDMI output can also be beneficial for media applications or direct server management. Some models offer M.2 slots for SSD caching, improving responsiveness. Be cautious of models with limited ports or outdated interfaces, as they can bottleneck data flow or restrict expandability. Consider your network infrastructure and future device needs when evaluating connectivity features.
Ease of Use and Software Ecosystem
The software platform is often the defining feature of a NAS. Brands like Synology are praised for intuitive interfaces and extensive app ecosystems, making them ideal for users who prefer straightforward management. More advanced models might offer a broader set of features but demand more technical knowledge. Evaluate whether the software supports your preferred apps, backup solutions, or media services, as this can greatly influence your overall satisfaction.
Drive Compatibility and Upgradeability
Most 4 bay NAS units are sold diskless, giving you the flexibility to choose drives that fit your budget and performance needs. Ensure the NAS supports the drive types and capacities you intend to use. Also, check if the device allows for easy drive replacement or expansion, especially if you plan to grow your storage over time. Using reliable drives and considering redundancy options, like RAID configurations, can protect your data against drive failures.
Price and Long-Term Value
While budget models are tempting, they may lack features or performance that you’ll need later. Conversely, premium options often include high-end CPUs, multiple network ports, and extensive software support, which may be overkill for casual use. Think about your current requirements and future plans—sometimes paying a bit more upfront leads to better longevity and satisfaction. Also, factor in the total cost of ownership, including drives, accessories, and potential expansion needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a diskless NAS or one with drives included?
Opting for a diskless NAS provides flexibility to choose drives that match your performance and capacity needs, often at a lower initial cost. It also allows for easier upgrades and replacements. However, pre-installed drives can be convenient for immediate setup, especially if you select reliable models. Consider your technical comfort level and whether you want to customize your storage; diskless options are generally better for tailored setups, while drives-included models suit those seeking simplicity.
How important is the CPU in a 4 bay NAS?
The CPU determines how well your NAS handles multitasking, media transcoding, and running additional services. Basic dual-core processors are sufficient for simple file sharing, but demanding tasks like 4K media streaming or virtual machine hosting require more powerful CPUs. Investing in a higher-performance processor can future-proof your device and improve overall responsiveness, especially if you plan to expand its functions over time.
Should I prioritize connectivity features over software usability?
Both are important, but the priority depends on your use case. If you need high-speed data transfers or direct media output, advanced connectivity options like 10GbE ports and HDMI are valuable. However, if ease of use and management are more critical, then a NAS with a user-friendly interface from brands like Synology might be preferable. Balancing these factors based on your technical skills and workflow will lead to a more satisfying experience.
Is RAID necessary in a 4 bay NAS?
RAID configurations are highly recommended for data protection, especially in a 4 bay setup where losing a drive can risk data loss. RAID 5 or RAID 10 offer a good balance of redundancy and capacity, but they also require compatible drives and some setup knowledge. If data security is a priority, investing in a RAID-capable NAS and compatible drives is wise. However, always remember that RAID is not a substitute for regular backups.
How do I decide between a budget and a premium NAS?
Budget models are suitable for simple storage and backup needs, but they often lack advanced features like high-speed networking or powerful CPUs. Premium models, on the other hand, provide better hardware, software, and expandability options, making them ideal for power users or small businesses. Consider your current demands and future growth; paying more upfront can save you from needing an upgrade later, but if your needs are modest, a budget option might suffice.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking the best overall experience with a balanced mix of features and ease of use, the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ stands out as the top choice. For those prioritizing value, models like the Synology DS423 or BUFFALO TeraStation offer reliable performance at a lower price point. Premium buyers with demanding workflows should consider high-end options like the UGREEN DXP4800 Pro, which combines robust hardware and advanced connectivity. Beginners or casual users will find the simple setup and software of Synology or Asustor models most suitable, while tech-savvy users seeking maximum performance should look at the more powerful CPU options and expansion features. Tailor your choice based on your current needs and future plans, ensuring your NAS remains a valuable tool for years to come.
