If you’re searching for a network attached storage 4 bay solution, you’re likely balancing performance, ease of use, and value. The Synology DiskStation DS925+ stands out as the best overall for its user-friendly interface and reliable performance. For those prioritizing raw speed, the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus offers impressive hardware with 10GbE connectivity. Meanwhile, the TERRAMASTER F4-425 provides a solid, budget-friendly option for home use. Each of these options illustrates the key tradeoffs: higher performance often comes with increased cost or complexity. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these and eight other top picks, so you can find the best fit for your storage needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The best NAS options balance performance, ease of setup, and expandability, with Synology leading in user experience.
- High-speed connectivity like 10GbE significantly boosts data transfer but may increase cost and power consumption.
- Diskless models offer flexible storage management but require compatible drives and setup time.
- Premium picks generally feature more RAM, faster processors, and advanced features like M.2 slots for caching.
- Budget options excel for straightforward backups and media storage but may lack advanced features or future-proofing.
| network attached storage 4 bay | RAM |
|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay | 8GB DDR5 |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | 1GB DDR4 |
| UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Deskto | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Netwo | 8GB DDR5 |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS St | — |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | 8GB LPDDR4X |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS S | 4GB |
| ACEMAGIC NAS N3A 4-Bay Desktop | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay De | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 128GB SSD, 10GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus stands out for its powerful Intel Pentium Gold processor and high-speed 10GbE connectivity, making it ideal for small offices that need quick data access and multitasking. Compared with the Synology DS925+, it offers more advanced features like Docker support and AI photo organization, but its reliance on wired Ethernet and the need to purchase drives separately can be limiting for those seeking simplicity. The built-in 128GB SSD accelerates performance for apps and virtual machines, yet this high level of hardware may be overkill for casual users or those prioritizing plug-and-play solutions.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Pentium Gold processor handles multitasking efficiently
- Supports advanced features like Docker containers and AI photo management
- Fast data transfer with 10GbE and multiple USB ports
Cons:- Requires purchasing hard drives separately, adding to initial cost
- No built-in Wi-Fi support, limiting placement flexibility
- Network speed depends heavily on network infrastructure
Best for: Tech-savvy small office teams needing fast, versatile storage with virtualization capabilities
Not ideal for: Home users seeking a simple, budget-friendly NAS without advanced features or additional setup
- Processor:Intel Pentium Gold 8505 5-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- SSD:Built-in 128GB
- Network Ports:1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE
- M.2 NVMe Slots:2
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Maximum Storage Capacity:144TB
- Form Factor:Desktop
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This pick suits small offices and power users who need speed, virtualization, and advanced features, despite the higher setup complexity.”
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ excels with its impressive throughput of up to 565 MB/s and dual 2.5GbE ports, making it a top choice for demanding environments. Compared with the Asustor AS1204T, it offers significantly faster read/write speeds and more robust network options, though its diskless nature means additional drive costs and potential complexity for newcomers. Its comprehensive software suite supports virtualization, surveillance, and extensive data management, but beginners may find setup and configuration more challenging than simpler models like the UGREEN DH2300.
Pros:- Exceptional transfer speeds up to 565 MB/s for large file workflows
- Dual 2.5GbE ports provide redundancy and high bandwidth
- Supports a broad range of enterprise features, including virtualization and surveillance
Cons:- Requires purchasing drives separately, increasing initial investment
- Setup complexity could be daunting for less experienced users
- No included drives, so total cost depends on storage needs
Best for: Businesses or tech enthusiasts needing high-speed, reliable data transfer and versatile management tools
Not ideal for: Home users or beginners who prefer plug-and-play solutions without extensive setup
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read/Write:up to 565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
- Diskless:Yes
- Supported Features:Data protection, virtualization, surveillance
Our verdict“Ideal for users prioritizing speed and enterprise features, willing to handle a more involved setup process.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS with Quad-Core CPU, 2.5GbE, 1GB DDR4, USB 3.0, Diskless
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T offers a balanced mix of speed and media features, with a quad-core processor and 2.5GbE port that enable fast data transfers for streaming 4K media and remote access. Compared to the UGREEN NAS DXP4800, it is more user-friendly and geared toward media enthusiasts and small offices seeking reliable, secure storage, though its 1GB RAM limits multi-tasking performance under heavy loads. It’s a solid choice for users who prioritize straightforward media streaming and flexible RAID options but may fall short for intensive virtualization or large enterprise workloads.
Pros:- Supports multiple RAID configurations for data redundancy
- High-speed 2.5GbE network for quick media access
- Supports 4K media streaming and remote access
Cons:- Limited 1GB RAM may bottleneck multitasking performance
- No included drives, adding to overall cost
- Basic hardware may struggle with heavy workloads or virtualization
Best for: Home users and small offices focused on media streaming and simple file management
Not ideal for: Power users needing virtualization, container support, or extensive multitasking capacity
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Network:2.5GbE
- Number of Bays:4
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/10
- Connectivity:USB 3.0, HDMI
Our verdict“Best suited for media-focused users and small offices needing reliable, straightforward storage.”
UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Desktop NAS Support Capacity 64TB (Diskless)
The UGREEN NAS DH2300 offers simplicity and ease of use for personal storage needs, supporting up to 64TB of capacity with intuitive setup and AI-powered photo organization. Compared with the UGREEN DXP2800, it is more affordable and straightforward, but its 2-bay design limits expansion and flexibility. It’s an ideal choice for beginners who want a reliable backup device and sharing platform without complex features like virtualization or Docker support, though it’s not suitable for users with extensive or demanding storage requirements.
Pros:- Supports up to 64TB for large personal storage needs
- User-friendly setup with AI photo management
- Fast file transfer speeds up to 125MB/s
Cons:- No Wi-Fi support, requiring wired Ethernet connection
- Limited to basic storage functions without virtualization support
- Additional drives must be purchased separately
Best for: Beginners and individuals seeking an easy-to-use backup solution for personal files
Not ideal for: Advanced users or content creators needing high capacity, virtualization, or extensive customization
- Digital Storage Capacity:64 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Additional Features:Dust resistant, Password protection
- Supported Devices:Desktop, Laptop, Smartphone, TV
- Form Factor:3.5 Inches
Our verdict“Perfect for beginners needing a straightforward, large-capacity backup and sharing device.”
UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Network Attached Storage for Content Creators
The UGREEN NAS DXP2800 is tailored for content creators, offering up to 80TB of storage, a powerful Intel N100 quad-core CPU, and 8GB DDR5 RAM. It includes 2 M.2 NVMe slots for caching and a 4K HDMI output, making it well-suited for managing large media libraries and sharing high-resolution content. Compared with the 4-bay options like the Synology DS925+, it emphasizes media creation and sharing with a focus on ease of use for creators. The setup can be complex for newcomers, and additional drives are needed to maximize storage capacity, but its high performance makes it worth considering for demanding media workflows.
Pros:- High storage capacity up to 80TB for large media libraries
- Powerful CPU and ample RAM for demanding workflows
- Includes 2 M.2 NVMe slots for caching and 4K HDMI output
Cons:- Requires initial setup and configuration, not plug-and-play
- Additional drives needed for full storage capacity
- May be overkill for basic file sharing or low-demand users
Best for: Content creators and digital artists needing large storage and media management tools
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking simple backup solutions without intensive media features
- CPU:Intel N100 Quad-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Storage Capacity:Up to 80TB
- Network:2.5GbE
- M.2 NVMe Slots:2
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Form Factor:Diskless
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for media professionals needing robust storage and media handling capabilities, despite a more involved setup.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS Storage – 4-Bay Intel N150 Quad-Core, 16GB DDR5, 5GbE LAN x 2, M.2 Slots x 3, Diskless
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus stands out for its powerful hardware, including an Intel N150 quad-core CPU and a generous 16GB DDR5 RAM, making it well-suited for demanding applications compared to the more entry-level UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus. Its triple M.2 slots offer flexible SSD caching, boosting overall responsiveness, while dual 5GbE ports support link aggregation for faster network throughput. However, its setup complexity and need for additional drives could be hurdles for less experienced users. This model is ideal for users comfortable with technical configuration who require high performance and expansive storage, up to 144TB. It’s less suitable for those seeking a plug-and-play solution or with limited technical skills.
Pros:- High-performance quad-core CPU and 16GB DDR5 RAM for demanding tasks
- Triple M.2 slots enable SSD caching and storage expansion
- Dual 5GbE ports support link aggregation for faster network speeds
- Supports up to 144TB of storage, suitable for large data needs
Cons:- Requires significant technical knowledge for setup and configuration
- No included drives, additional purchase needed
- Customer reviews highlight complexity in initial setup
Best for: Power users and small businesses needing robust performance and extensive storage flexibility
Not ideal for: Beginners or users looking for an out-of-the-box, easy-to-set-up NAS solution
- Processor:Intel N150 Quad-Core up to 3.6GHz
- Memory:16GB DDR5
- Number of Bays:4
- Maximum Storage Capacity:144TB
- M.2 Slots:3
- Network Interfaces:2 x 5GbE LAN ports
Our verdict“Best suited for technically skilled users who need maximum performance and storage capacity.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Attached Storage (Diskless)
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus offers a straightforward, cost-effective option for home users, especially those prioritizing simplicity over raw power, contrasting with the more advanced TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus. It supports up to 128TB, providing ample space for media and backups, and features a user-friendly setup with remote access and AI photo management. Its wired Ethernet only and lack of Wi-Fi support limit flexibility for some home environments, and it requires users to purchase HDDs or SSDs separately. This NAS makes the most sense for users seeking reliable, large-capacity storage with minimal fuss, such as families or small offices. It isn’t ideal for tech enthusiasts seeking advanced features or flexible network options.
Pros:- Supports large storage capacity up to 128TB
- Easy setup with remote access from multiple devices
- Includes AI photo recognition and organization features
- Cost-effective solution for home media storage
Cons:- No Wi-Fi connectivity, reliant on wired Ethernet
- Requires separate purchase of HDDs/SSDs
- Limited to wired network connections
Best for: Home users or small offices wanting simple, reliable media and backup storage
Not ideal for: Advanced users or those requiring wireless connectivity and extensive customization
- Support Capacity:up to 128TB
- RAM:8GB LPDDR4X
- Network:2.5GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- Connectivity:Wired Ethernet only
Our verdict“An excellent choice for non-technical users seeking straightforward media storage and backup at home.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage – Intel x86 Quad-Core, 4GB RAM, 2.5GbE LAN, Multimedia Server for Home Use
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 combines a solid Intel x86 quad-core processor with 4GB RAM, making it a strong choice for media streaming and family backups, especially when compared to the more basic UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus. Its support for 4K transcoding and multi-user access allows smooth media playback across multiple devices, while its quiet operation at 21dB keeps noise levels unobtrusive. The setup is straightforward for users familiar with NAS configurations, but its maximum capacity of 120TB and limited RAM can restrict performance during heavy multitasking. This NAS is ideal for home multimedia enthusiasts who need reliable streaming and backup options without overly complex features. It’s less suited for users with demanding enterprise applications or those requiring extensive expandability.
Pros:- Supports 4K transcoding and multi-user media streaming
- Quiet operation at 21dB(A), ideal for home environments
- Easy tool-free HDD installation
- Supports RAID for data redundancy
Cons:- Limited to 120TB maximum storage capacity
- Only 4GB RAM, which may limit heavy multitasking
- Requires network setup that may be complex for some
Best for: Home media users wanting reliable, multi-device streaming and backups
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals needing extensive processing power or large capacity
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Max Storage Capacity:120TB
- Network:2.5GbE LAN
- Supported Protocols:TRAI, TRAID+
Our verdict“A strong choice for home media enthusiasts seeking reliable streaming and simple backup solutions.”
ACEMAGIC NAS N3A 4-Bay Desktop Network Attached Storage Home & Office Backup Hub, Up to 136TB, Dual 2.5G+1G LAN, 8GB DDR4, 128GB PCIe3.0 SSD, Diskless
The ACEMAGIC NAS N3A excels as a versatile, high-performance NAS for small business or advanced home users, with dual 2.5G+1G LAN ports for flexible, high-speed network connections. Its support for up to 136TB of storage, combined with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 128GB PCIe SSD, offers a level of customization and speed that surpasses simpler models like the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus. The device’s support for various operating systems and advanced connectivity options make it suitable for users comfortable with detailed setups. Its requirement for separate HDDs/SSDs and the complexity of advanced features could be daunting for casual users. This NAS is best for those who want a highly customizable storage hub with excellent network performance, but less ideal for novices or those seeking plug-and-play simplicity.
Pros:- Supports up to 136TB storage with flexible HDD/SSD options
- Dual 2.5G+1G LAN ports for high-speed network connectivity
- Includes 8GB DDR4 RAM and 128GB PCIe SSD for fast performance
- Compatible with multiple operating systems for custom configurations
Cons:- Requires users to purchase HDDs/SSDs separately
- Setup may be complex for less experienced users
- Advanced features like virtualization require technical knowledge
Best for: Small businesses or tech-savvy users needing flexible, high-speed storage and extensive customization
Not ideal for: Users seeking a plug-and-play, easy-to-use NAS without complex setup requirements
- CPU:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2 SSD
- Max Storage Capacity:144TB
- Network Ports:2x 10GbE
- Additional Features:Surveillance Center, SD card slot
Our verdict“Ideal for advanced users and small businesses seeking a customizable and high-speed NAS system.”
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 offers a high-end desktop solution with an AMD Ryzen R2514 CPU and dual 10GbE ports, making it a standout for users needing rapid data transfer and virtualization support, unlike the more modest TERRAMASTER F4-425. Its support for multiple SSD types, including M.2 NVMe, and large storage capacity up to 144TB, positions it for demanding office and creative workflows. The extensive connectivity, including HDMI and SD card slots, enhances its versatility, but the device’s pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, and setup for features like surveillance or Docker containers demands technical expertise. This NAS makes the most sense for advanced users or small offices that require high throughput, virtual machine capability, and multimedia features, while it may be overkill for casual home users.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen R2514 processor with expandable RAM
- Dual 10GbE ports for ultra-fast network transfers
- Supports multiple SSD types and large storage capacity
- Built-in surveillance features and multimedia support
Cons:- Drives are not included and must be purchased separately
- Setup for advanced features like virtualization can be complex
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC for some configurations
Best for: Power users and small offices requiring high-performance, virtualization, and multimedia streaming
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, budget-friendly NAS setup
- CPU:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2 SSD
- Max Storage Capacity:144TB
- Network Ports:2x 10GbE
- Additional Features:Surveillance Center, SD card slot
Our verdict“Best suited for demanding office environments or tech-savvy users needing high throughput and virtualization features.”
How We Picked
These NAS devices were evaluated based on their hardware performance, software usability, build quality, expandability, and value for money. We prioritized models with reliable processors, sufficient RAM, and versatile connectivity options like multiple LAN ports or 10GbE. Ease of setup and ongoing maintenance were also key factors, especially for users new to NAS. The ranking reflects a balance of performance and user experience, with higher-tier models offering more advanced features at a premium, and budget models delivering essential functionality for basic needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Network Attached Storage 4 Bay
Choosing a 4-bay NAS requires considering several factors beyond just hardware specs. The intended use case—whether for media streaming, backups, or business storage—will influence the best features for you. Cost, expandability, and ease of use are essential considerations to avoid overpaying or ending up with a device that doesn’t meet your needs. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls like underestimating storage needs or over-investing in features you won’t use.Performance and Processor Power
The processor and RAM determine how smoothly your NAS handles multitasking and demanding applications like media transcoding or virtual machines. Higher-end CPUs with multiple cores, such as Intel Pentium Gold or AMD Ryzen, ensure faster data processing and future-proofing. However, these models often come at a higher cost, so assess whether your intended workload justifies the investment. For light backup or media serving, a modest processor may suffice, but for intensive tasks, look for models with robust hardware.
Connectivity and Network Speed
Fast network interfaces like 2.5GbE or 10GbE can drastically reduce file transfer times, especially with larger media files or multiple users. However, upgrading your network infrastructure to support these speeds adds extra cost. For most home users, 1GbE is sufficient, but a small office might benefit from higher speeds. Keep in mind that the fastest NAS won’t perform well if your router or switches don’t support the same speeds, so consider your entire network setup.
Expandability and Storage Management
While four bays offer decent flexibility, check if the NAS supports expansion units or drive mirroring for data redundancy. Diskless models provide the freedom to choose drives but require setup effort. Also, look for features like SSD caching via M.2 slots, which can significantly boost performance. Think about your future storage needs—if you anticipate growth, a model with easy expansion options will serve you better over time.
Ease of Use and Software Features
User-friendly interfaces and comprehensive app ecosystems matter, especially for those new to NAS. Synology’s DSM, for example, is renowned for its intuitive interface and robust software suite. Conversely, some brands might offer more technical customization but with a steeper learning curve. Consider how much time you’re willing to invest in setup and maintenance, and whether the software ecosystem aligns with your needs, such as media streaming, backup, or virtualization.
Price and Long-Term Value
While budget models can meet basic needs, they might lack features like dual LAN ports or hardware acceleration, which could be costly upgrades later. Investing in a slightly more expensive model could provide better longevity, reduced need for future replacements, and more features. Balance your immediate budget against potential future costs, especially if you plan to expand or increase usage over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 4-bay NAS for business purposes?
Yes, many 4-bay NAS devices are suitable for small business environments, especially models with higher-end processors, more RAM, and multiple network ports. They support essential functions like centralized backups, file sharing, and even virtual machines. However, for critical business data or larger teams, consider models with advanced redundancy options, better hardware, and enhanced security features to ensure stability and data protection.
Is it better to get a diskless NAS or one with drives pre-installed?
Choosing a diskless NAS provides flexibility to select drives that match your needs and budget, and it allows for custom RAID configurations. However, it requires more setup effort and knowledge about drives and RAID. Pre-installed drives are convenient but often come with a premium price and less flexibility. Consider your comfort level with hardware setup and whether you want to customize your storage from the start.
How much RAM should I look for in a 4-bay NAS?
The amount of RAM directly impacts multitasking and performance, especially if you plan to run multiple apps or media transcodes. For light use, 2GB to 4GB may suffice, but for more demanding tasks, 8GB or higher is advisable. Many models allow RAM upgrades, so evaluate the maximum supported memory if you anticipate increasing your workload over time.
Is a 10GbE port worth it for a home setup?
If you regularly transfer large files, stream high-definition media, or back up multiple devices simultaneously, a 10GbE port can significantly improve speeds. However, to realize these benefits, your entire network infrastructure—routers, switches, and cabling—must support 10GbE. For casual or light users, a 1GbE network is usually sufficient, making 10GbE more of a future-proofing or specialized need.
Should I prioritize software features over hardware specs?
Both matter, but for most users, software features like ease of management, app ecosystem, and security are equally important as hardware. A powerful NAS with a complex interface might be less practical than a simpler device that meets your storage needs. Consider your technical comfort level and daily use cases—intuitive software can save time and reduce frustration, especially if you’re new to NAS systems.
Conclusion
For general home users and small offices, the Synology DiskStation DS925+ offers the best balance of performance, ease of use, and expandability, making it the top overall choice. Those seeking high-speed data transfer and advanced hardware might prefer the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus or the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT, which excel in connectivity. Budget-conscious buyers should consider models like the TERRAMASTER F4-425 for reliable, cost-effective storage. Beginners will benefit from intuitive interfaces like Synology’s DSM, while power users should look at options with more RAM, faster CPUs, and multiple LAN ports for demanding workloads. Ultimately, your choice hinges on your specific storage needs, technical comfort, and budget constraints.
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