If you own one of the best gaming PCs or laptops and need a reliable solution for backing up or transferring your valuable data, consider investing in a top-notch NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Whether you're utilizing a high-speed SSD or relying on large external hard drives for storing your files, photos, and other content, a NAS like our top pick, the Synology DiskStation DS224+, offers unmatched versatility and performance.

TL;DR – These are the Best NAS Devices:

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0See it at Amazon### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0See it at Amazon### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0See it at Amazon### QNAP TS-264-8G

0See it at Amazon### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0See it at Amazon### ioSafe Duo Pro

0See it at ioSafe

NAS drives are essential for their significant storage capacity and ability to connect to your home network, enabling swift data transfers across your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, a NAS allows for easy synchronization and is perfect for managing digital media libraries. While NAS devices can be pricey, we've selected eight top-tier options to suit various needs.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is an easy-to-use, high-speed NAS with two drive bays, dual Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM. It's perfect for users looking for a straightforward yet capable solution.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
• RAID Level: SHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
• Size: 9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"

Pros

• Easy-to-use interface
• Fast quad-core processor

Cons

• No multi-gig LAN port

The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is ideal for those who want a robust NAS without dealing with complex software. It supports up to 32TB of storage and offers RAID 1 for data redundancy. The dual Gigabit LAN ports provide enhanced speeds via Link Aggregation or network failover, though faster LAN options would be a welcome addition.

Synology's intuitive apps and software make it easy to set up the DS224+ for various uses, such as storing security camera footage, running a Plex server, or safely storing and accessing files and photos. With its Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM (upgradable), it handles 4K media transcoding, file management, and video streaming with ease.

2. UGREEN NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 offers quality hardware and a sleek design at a budget-friendly price. It features dual drive bays and is perfect for backing up your files.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB, HDMI
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, Basic
• Storage: 2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: Not listed

Pros

• Comprehensive OS and apps
• Multi-gig ethernet

Cons

• No native Plex support

The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 is a well-constructed NAS with an attractive design and solid hardware at a midrange price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, making it suitable for managing a high-quality video library and handling hardware transcoding.

UGREEN's OS simplifies setup and network configuration, offering additional security features like two-factor authentication. Although it doesn't come with native Plex support, installing it via Docker is straightforward. The dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, and the toolless installation system makes adding drives easy. The inclusion of two M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs up to 8TB, along with a 2.5Gb ethernet port, ensures fast file transfers. Additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0The Synology DiskStation DS223j is an ultra-affordable, user-friendly NAS ideal for beginners.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB
• RAID Level: Basic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHR
• Storage: 2 x 3.5" bays
• Size: 6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"

Pros

• Reliable hardware
• Easy to use

Cons

• Lacks multi-gig ethernet port

The Synology DiskStation DS223j is perfect for those new to NAS or with simpler storage needs. It features Synology's renowned DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering a wide range of applications for seamless file storage and access across devices.

Though primarily made of plastic and requiring a screwdriver for drive installation, the DS223j is reliable and affordable. It supports up to 32TB of storage without M.2 slots or multi-gig ethernet ports, but its simplicity, reliability, and low cost make it an excellent choice for basic NAS needs.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0The Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T is packed with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, and versatile drive options, making it ideal for power users.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.0, HDMI
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: 9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"

Pros

• Dual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storage
• Supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding

Cons

• Drive installation is more involved

The Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T is perfect for those seeking a highly configurable NAS. It comes with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM (upgradable to 8GB). The two drive bays support both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing for up to 18TB hard drives or SSDs. Additionally, two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots provide even faster storage options.

With dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports supporting link aggregation for up to 5Gb connectivity, setting up the Lockerstor for speedy backups, virtualization, or a media center is straightforward. It also features an HDMI 2.0 port and supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a superior 4K HDR experience.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0The Synology DiskStation DS1821+ offers extensive storage with eight drive bays, providing up to 128TB of capacity and M.2 NVMe slots.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)
• Storage: 8 x 3.5"/2.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: 18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"

Pros

• Wild 128TB capacity
• Hot-swappable drives

Cons

• Can get noisy

For those with extensive data storage needs, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is an excellent choice. While it comes at a higher price point, it offers unparalleled expandability. The eight drive bays support both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives and are hot-swappable, ensuring maximum flexibility.

The DS1821+ can expand to 18 drive bays with additional units and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots for high-speed caching. It's powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory (expandable to 32GB), ensuring robust performance for all your storage and access needs.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

### QNAP TS-264-8G

0The QNAP TS-264-8G is designed for seamless media streaming, featuring dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, and versatile storage options.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, HDMI
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBOD
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
• Size: 8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"

Pros

• Compact design
• Impressive hardware

Cons

• Software is harder to master

The QNAP TS-264-8G is tailored for media streaming, offering dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports to handle high-throughput media access. It's perfect for setting up next to your TV, thanks to its 4K-capable HDMI output.

This NAS supports two 3.5-inch drive bays for substantial storage and includes two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or enhanced network speeds. An Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory ensure smooth operation, even with 4K video streams and hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0The Synology DiskStation DS923+ offers four drive bays and a variety of RAID configurations for enhanced data security and storage.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, eSATA
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBOD
• Storage: 4 x 3.5"/2.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
• Size: 6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7"

Pros

• Offers various RAID levels
• Expandable storage and RAM

Cons

• No multi-gig LAN port

The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is ideal for those prioritizing data backup and security. Its four drive bays support 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, and it offers multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, SHR, Basic, and JBOD, to suit various protection needs.

The DS923+ includes two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching and two 1Gb ethernet ports with Link Aggregation or Failover support. There's also an option to add 10Gb connectivity. A dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, combined with the user-friendly DSM operating system, ensure smooth operation and setup.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

### ioSafe Duo Pro

0While not technically a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers robust data protection with its fireproof and water-resistant design, along with RAID configurations.

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Product Specifications

• Connection: USB 3.2
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPAN
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
• Size: 11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"

Pros

• Fireproof and water-resistant
• Offers two robust, long-lasting drive bays

Cons

• Not designed to be a NAS

The ioSafe Duo Pro is built to protect your data from physical damage, with fireproof and water-resistant capabilities. Its IP68 rating ensures protection against submersion in water up to 10 feet for 72 hours.

While not specifically designed as a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers RAID configurations and robust drive bays for data protection. Data recovery services are also available. To use it as a NAS, you'll need to share it via an always-on computer or directly attach it to your router via USB.

What to Look for in NAS

NAS devices are invaluable for those sharing a network or needing to back up multiple devices. They centralize file sharing and backups, making them essential for homes with multiple users.

What are you using it for?

If you need to share files across multiple devices or access a large media library from various gadgets, a NAS is an excellent solution. You can even set up a NAS as a Plex server for easy access to movies, TV shows, and music across your home.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices come without disks, requiring separate purchases. If you already have compatible drives, a diskless system might be less of an issue, but always check manufacturer recommendations for optimal performance.

The number of bays determines the potential storage capacity, with two or more bays being ideal for most users. Multimedia setups often require more bays to accommodate larger libraries.