If you’re looking for the best 4-bay NAS devices in 2026, I recommend exploring options like the UGREEN 4-Bay NAS, Synology DiskStation DS423, and QNAP TR-004 for versatile storage and performance. For expanding capacity, models like the QNAP TL-D400S and Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro also stand out. Each offers unique features for both personal and business use. Keep exploring, and you’ll discover more options tailored to your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Consider high-performance 4-bay NAS units like TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus for demanding workflows in 2026.
- Evaluate security features such as encryption, firewalls, and snapshot capabilities to protect sensitive data.
- Prioritize models supporting large capacities, RAID flexibility, and NVMe SSD compatibility for scalability.
- Check for high-speed network interfaces like 2.5GbE or 10GbE for faster data transfer in professional environments.
- Opt for user-friendly, remote-access-enabled NAS devices suitable for home and small business use.
| UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with 120TB Support |  | Best Private Cloud | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes (disks not included) | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) |  | Best Security Features | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 1GbE (multi-GbE available) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS System |  | High-Performance Powerhouse | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE, 10GbE (additional ports) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB-C DAS with RAID |  | Best Expandability | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: USB-C (DAS, no network port) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TL-D400S 4-Bay SATA JBOD Enclosure |  | Enterprise Ready | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: PCIe expansion, no dedicated network ports | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS with 4 Bays |  | Best for Creative Workflows | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 5GbE (dual ports) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Fast & Reliable | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor AS5404T 4-Bay NAS with SSD Slots |  | Best for Home Use | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-464-8G-US Desktop NAS with Quad-core CPU |  | Most Feature-Rich | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless) |  | Budget-Friendly Choice | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless) |  | Ideal for Media Streaming | Storage Bays: 4 bays | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation 220 4TB NAS with HDD |  | Easy Setup | Storage Bays: 2 bays (note: included for completeness, but differs slightly) | Diskless Option: Yes | Network Ports: Ethernet (not specified in detail, typically LAN) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with 120TB Support
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use NAS that offers massive storage without breaking the bank, the UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with 120TB support is a great choice. It’s designed for home media and private storage, letting you record, share, and access your content across multiple devices. With an intuitive interface, setup is straightforward, even for beginners. It supports automatic backups, remote access, and AI-powered photo management. Plus, its high-performance hardware ensures fast transfers and smooth media playback. Best of all, it keeps your data private and secure, making it a cost-effective alternative to ongoing cloud fees.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes (disks not included)
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- Backup & Data Security:Automatic backups, encryption
- Media & Surveillance Support:4K HDMI, multimedia streaming
- Additional Feature:AI-powered photo management
- Additional Feature:2.5GbE network port
- Additional Feature:NFC setup via smartphone
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless)
The Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) stands out as an ideal choice for users who need flexible storage expansion and robust data protection. With four drive bays, it adapts to various data management needs, whether for personal or small business use. It offers extensive security features like multi-destination backups and snapshot technology, protecting your media and documents from malware and data loss. Plus, it enables secure remote access, making file sharing easy from anywhere. Its support for up to 30 IP cameras and a 2-year warranty further enhances its versatility. Overall, the DS423 combines scalability, security, and remote management in a compact, reliable NAS solution.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:1GbE (multi-GbE available)
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- Backup & Data Security:Multi-destination backups, snapshot
- Media & Surveillance Support:Surveillance (up to 30 cameras)
- Additional Feature:Supports multi-destination backups
- Additional Feature:Snapshot technology included
- Additional Feature:Video surveillance support
UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS System
Designed for small offices and collaborative teams, the UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS stands out with its powerful Intel Pentium Gold 8505 processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM, delivering smooth performance for demanding multitasking. It features a 128GB SSD and supports up to 136TB of storage, perfect for large media libraries or extensive backups. With 10GbE and 2.5GbE network ports, transfer speeds are lightning-fast, enabling quick backups and seamless file sharing. The device supports advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, and AI-powered photo organization. Its user-friendly interface, security options, and broad OS compatibility make it a versatile choice for modern small-scale data management.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE, 10GbE (additional ports)
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- Backup & Data Security:Centralized storage, encryption
- Media & Surveillance Support:Media streaming, AI photo organization
- Additional Feature:10GbE network ports
- Additional Feature:M.2 NVMe expansion slots
- Additional Feature:Supports Docker and VMs
QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB-C DAS with RAID
The QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB-C DAS stands out for those needing reliable, high-capacity external storage that supports multiple operating systems. It features four SATA bays compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it versatile for various setups. With hardware RAID options like RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD, and individual disk mode, it offers flexible data protection and performance. The lockable drive bays enhance security, while the USB Type-C connection ensures fast data transfer. However, it can’t be integrated directly with NAS devices or run NAS applications, so it’s best suited for standalone storage and backup needs across different platforms.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:USB-C (DAS, no network port)
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Backup & Data Security:Data protection via RAID, backups
- Media & Surveillance Support:No dedicated media, DAS only
- Additional Feature:Hardware RAID options
- Additional Feature:Supports Windows/macOS/Linux
- Additional Feature:USB Type-C connection
QNAP TL-D400S 4-Bay SATA JBOD Enclosure
If you’re looking for a high-performance storage expansion for desktop use, the QNAP TL-D400S 4-Bay SATA JBOD Enclosure stands out thanks to its support for SATA 6Gbps drives and compatibility with QNAP NAS, Windows, and Ubuntu systems. It’s a diskless enclosure that holds four 3.5-inch SATA drives, functioning as a standalone storage volume. The package includes a PCIe SATA expansion card and a Mini SAS cable, ensuring fast data transfer via the SFF-8088 interface. Designed for reliable, high-capacity storage, it’s ideal for users needing expandable, high-speed desktop storage without mixing with existing pools.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:PCIe expansion, no dedicated network ports
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, QNAP NAS
- Backup & Data Security:RAID, snapshots, encryption
- Media & Surveillance Support:Not specified
- Additional Feature:PCIe SATA expansion card
- Additional Feature:SFF-8088 Mini SAS cable
- Additional Feature:High-speed SATA 6Gbps
TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS with 4 Bays
For small businesses and creative professionals seeking high performance and flexible storage options, the TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS with 4 Bays stands out. Powered by an Intel N150 Quad-Core CPU and 16GB DDR5 RAM, it handles demanding tasks effortlessly. Its triple M.2 SSD slots boost speed and flexibility with cache or independent storage pools. With dual 5GbE LAN ports supporting link aggregation, it delivers up to 1020 MB/s read/write speeds—perfect for data-heavy workflows like video editing. Supporting up to 144TB, it offers robust data protection via TRAID technology, snapshots, and HyperLock-WORM, making it a versatile, reliable choice for various environments.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:5GbE (dual ports)
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Backup & Data Security:RAID, snapshots, data protection
- Media & Surveillance Support:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Dual 5GbE LAN ports
- Additional Feature:HyperLock-WORM support
- Additional Feature:Direct data drive mounting
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
Among the top choices for 4-bay NAS devices in 2026, the Synology DiskStation DS925+ stands out with its high-speed dual 2.5GbE ports, making it ideal for users who require fast, reliable network transfers. It’s diskless, offering flexible storage expansion supported by its compatibility list. With impressive sequential read/write speeds of up to 522/565 MB/s, it ensures smooth data handling. The DS925+ also includes built-in file management, data protection, virtualization support, and surveillance options. Backed by a 3-year limited hardware warranty, this device delivers performance, reliability, and extensive features for both home and business use.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Backup & Data Security:Data security, snapshots
- Media & Surveillance Support:Surveillance, media management
- Additional Feature:3-year warranty
- Additional Feature:Supports virtualization
- Additional Feature:Built-in file/photo management
Asustor AS5404T 4-Bay NAS with SSD Slots
The Asustor AS5404T stands out for users seeking high-speed performance and flexible storage options in their NAS setup. It features a powerful quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 processor and 4 GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking. Its four M.2 NVMe SSD slots boost caching and overall speed, while dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports provide fast, reliable network connectivity. With three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, data transfer is quick and seamless. Designed with thermal vents for SSD heat dissipation and remote power management features like Wake on LAN and WAN, it combines performance with user convenience and sleek aesthetics.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Android
- Backup & Data Security:Backup, encryption, remote access
- Media & Surveillance Support:4K transcoding, media streaming
- Additional Feature:4 M.2 NVMe slots
- Additional Feature:10 Gbps USB ports
- Additional Feature:Stylish, modern design
QNAP TS-464-8G-US Desktop NAS with Quad-core CPU
Looking for a reliable NAS that can handle demanding multitasking and fast data transfers? The QNAP TS-464-8G-US is an excellent choice. It’s powered by quad-core Intel Celeron processors reaching up to 2.9 GHz, paired with 8GB DDR4 RAM for smooth performance. Its dual 2.5GbE ports boost network speeds, making file sharing and large transfers quick and seamless. Plus, it features two M.2 SSD slots for cache or extra storage, enhancing responsiveness. With multiple USB 3.2 ports and secure remote access via MyQNAPCloud, this device offers flexibility and accessibility. It’s a versatile, high-performance NAS for demanding users.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Backup & Data Security:Data protection, snapshots
- Media & Surveillance Support:Media playback, transcoding
- Additional Feature:Two M.2 SSD slots
- Additional Feature:2.5GbE network ports
- Additional Feature:Remote access via MyQNAPCloud
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless)
If you’re seeking a versatile NAS device that offers maximum customization and performance, the Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless) stands out as an excellent choice. It supports drives from Synology’s official compatibility list, giving you up to 80 TB of storage in a flexible, diskless setup. With sequential read/write speeds of 278/281 MB/s, it delivers stable, efficient data transfers. Built-in tools handle file and photo management, data protection, and even surveillance functions. Plus, it offers multi-platform access for seamless flexibility. Backed by a 3-year warranty, this device combines reliability with powerful performance, ideal for both home and business use.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS
- Backup & Data Security:Data security, backups
- Media & Surveillance Support:Surveillance, media management
- Additional Feature:3-year hardware warranty
- Additional Feature:Supports surveillance features
- Additional Feature:Efficient data transfer speeds
Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless)
For users seeking a versatile and high-performance NAS without the initial cost of pre-installed drives, the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless) stands out. It features a powerful 1.7GHz quad-core Realtek RTD1619B processor, 2GB DDR4 RAM, and a 4-bay design that offers ample storage flexibility. With a 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet port, it ensures fast, reliable network transfers, perfect for media streaming and backups. Its support for 4K video transcoding and an upgraded internal display make it ideal for home media servers. Plus, tools like Wake on LAN, Btrfs snapshots, and tool-free setup make it user-friendly and secure.
- Storage Bays:4 bays
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS, Android
- Backup & Data Security:Backup, snapshots, data encryption
- Media & Surveillance Support:4K transcoding, media
- Additional Feature:4K video transcoding
- Additional Feature:Tool-free installation
- Additional Feature:Remote power management
BUFFALO LinkStation 220 4TB NAS with HDD
The BUFFALO LinkStation 220 4TB NAS with HDD stands out as an excellent choice for home users who need secure, centralized storage without the complexity of enterprise-grade systems. It offers 4TB capacity across two drive bays, configurable in RAID 1 or RAID 0, ensuring data security or maximum storage. Compatible with Windows and macOS, it connects easily to routers for shared network access. The device supports automated backups, SSL encryption, and individual folder permissions, keeping data private and safe. Built in Japan for quality, it includes hard drives and comes with 24/7 US-based support and a 2-year warranty, making it a reliable, user-friendly home cloud solution.
- Storage Bays:2 bays (note: included for completeness, but differs slightly)
- Diskless Option:Yes
- Network Ports:Ethernet (not specified in detail, typically LAN)
- Compatibility with Operating Systems:Windows, macOS
- Backup & Data Security:Data protection, backups
- Media & Surveillance Support:Surveillance, media features
- Additional Feature:RAID 0/1 configurations
- Additional Feature:SSL encryption
- Additional Feature:Comes with included HDD
Factors to Consider When Choosing Network Attached Storage 4 Bay
When selecting a NAS 4-bay device, I consider my storage capacity needs and whether the device can handle my data volume now and in the future. I also evaluate its performance specs, drive compatibility, and security features to guarantee it meets my requirements. Finally, I check how easy it is to access remotely and manage the device from different locations.
Storage Capacity Needs
Understanding your current and future storage needs is crucial when selecting a 4-bay NAS, as it guarantees you choose a device that can grow with your requirements. Start by evaluating the types and sizes of files you’ll store now and later, then determine the total capacity you’ll need. Calculate how many drives are necessary to reach that capacity, considering NAS models that support expansion through additional drives or external enclosures. Think about whether you need a mix of SSDs and HDDs to optimize performance and storage, and check the maximum supported capacity per drive bay and overall for the NAS. Finally, consider if flexible RAID configurations are available to balance redundancy, performance, and capacity, aligning with your specific storage plans.
Performance Specifications
Choosing a 4-bay NAS with strong performance specifications is essential to meet your storage and multitasking needs. I look for models with high-performance processors, like Intel or AMD CPUs, to handle multiple applications efficiently. Adequate RAM—at least 4GB—is crucial for smooth operation when multiple users are accessing data simultaneously. I also check network interfaces; 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports provide faster transfer speeds than standard Gigabit Ethernet, which is vital for large file transfers. Additionally, I evaluate read/write throughput, aiming for at least 200 MB/s to ensure quick data access. Modern connection standards like USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt are also important for quick peripheral connections and data transfers. These specs guarantee reliable, fast performance tailored to demanding workflows.
Drive Compatibility Options
Selecting a NAS with the right drive compatibility guarantees you can maximize your storage flexibility and performance. First, confirm the NAS supports the specific drive types and sizes you plan to use, like 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, or NVMe SSDs. It’s also important to check if it’s compatible with drives from popular brands such as Western Digital, Seagate, or Toshiba, especially if you prefer third-party options. Confirm the maximum supported capacity per drive and overall to future-proof your setup. Additionally, see if the NAS supports various RAID configurations, which influence drive choices and data redundancy. Finally, consider if the device allows hot-swapping and supports features like drive encryption for added security. These factors help tailor your storage to your needs.
Security Features Offered
Security features are essential when evaluating NAS devices, especially for protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. I look for advanced encryption protocols like AES-256, which keep my data secure even if someone tries to intercept it. Built-in firewalls and access controls are also critical, as they let me restrict user permissions and prevent unauthorized entry. Support for multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, especially when I access my NAS remotely or through web interfaces. Regular firmware updates from the manufacturer are vital, as they patch vulnerabilities and improve security over time. Additionally, backup and snapshot capabilities are crucial for quick recovery from ransomware or data corruption, ensuring my data remains safe and intact in any situation.
Remote Access Ease
When evaluating NAS devices for remote access, I focus on how seamlessly I can connect to my storage from anywhere. I look for support across multiple methods like web browsers, mobile apps, and FTP, which gives me flexible options. Built-in VPN support or compatibility with VPN services is vital for secure connections outside my local network. I also check if setup is straightforward, with quick configuration guides or one-touch access. Dynamic DNS support helps maintain consistent access even when my IP changes. Additionally, remote management tools are essential for monitoring and controlling my NAS securely from afar. These features guarantee I can access my data reliably and safely, no matter where I am.
Backup and Recovery
Ensuring your NAS offers robust backup and recovery options is essential for safeguarding your data effectively. I look for devices that support automatic backups, so my data is regularly protected without manual effort. Snapshot technology is a must, allowing me to restore data to specific points if accidental deletion or corruption occurs. Flexible RAID configurations are crucial, as they provide redundancy and reduce the risk of data loss if a drive fails. Remote access capabilities are also vital, enabling me to recover data from off-site locations during emergencies. Lastly, I prioritize NAS devices with strong encryption and security features to shield my backups from cyber threats and unauthorized access. These factors collectively guarantee my data remains safe, accessible, and recoverable when I need it most.
Budget Considerations
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS depends heavily on your budget, as prices can range from around $200 for basic models to over $1,000 for advanced ones. It’s important to think about the total cost of ownership, including upfront price, potential upgrades, and long-term maintenance. Entry-level NAS devices generally have fewer features and lower hardware specs, making them suitable for simple storage needs on a tight budget. On the other hand, higher-priced models offer faster processors, more RAM, and better connectivity, which can be worthwhile for power users or demanding environments. Striking a balance between your current needs and future growth is key—investing wisely ensures you don’t overspend on unnecessary features while still getting the performance required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Each NAS Device Handle Data Redundancy and Backup Options?
Each NAS device I’ve looked into handles data redundancy through RAID configurations, like RAID 5 or RAID 10, which protect against drive failures. Backup options are usually built-in, allowing me to schedule regular backups to external drives or cloud services. I appreciate how user-friendly these features are, giving me peace of mind knowing my data is safe, whether I’m at home or remote.
What Are the Energy Consumption Levels of These 4-Bay NAS Devices?
Imagine a small business running a 4-bay NAS; I’ve found that most models now consume between 20 to 50 watts during operation. For example, the Synology DS920+ uses about 24 watts when active, which is quite energy-efficient. This low power consumption helps save on electricity bills and reduces environmental impact, making these devices both practical and eco-friendly for home or office use.
Are There Specific Security Features Integrated Into These NAS Models?
Yes, these 4-bay NAS devices come with robust security features like hardware encryption, scheduled backups, and user access controls. I appreciate that many models also include VPN support and multi-factor authentication, which add extra layers of protection. These features help me guarantee my data stays secure from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Overall, they give me peace of mind knowing my information is well-protected.
How Easy Is It to Expand Storage Capacity Later On?
I’ve expanded my NAS storage multiple times, and it’s quite straightforward. For example, I started with a 4-bay device, then added an extra drive through hot-swapping or using expansion units. Most models support this seamlessly, allowing you to increase capacity without hassle. As long as your NAS has available drive bays or compatible expansion options, you can easily scale up your storage whenever needed.
What Compatibility Issues Might Arise With Different Operating Systems?
Compatibility issues can pop up when using NAS devices with different operating systems. I’ve found that some NAS systems work seamlessly with Windows, but may have limited support for macOS or Linux. To avoid problems, I check if the NAS supports SMB, AFP, or NFS protocols. I also look for devices with good multi-platform support and updated firmware, ensuring smooth file sharing across all my devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS depends on your storage needs and budget. Did you know that the global NAS market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12% through 2026? That means more options and better tech coming soon. Whether you want massive 120TB support or a compact, diskless model, there’s something for everyone. Take your time, compare features, and pick the one that best fits your data storage goals.
