Review of NAS devices optimized for media streaming.
Find more on 14 Best Network Attached Storage for Home
Streaming has become an integral part of our lives, with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video dominating our entertainment choices. However, storing all your favorite movies and TV shows locally can be a real challenge, especially if you have a large library or want to access your content from multiple devices. This is where Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices come in. NAS devices offer a convenient and efficient way to store and stream your media library, providing you with a centralized storage hub and seamless access from any device on your network.
Choosing the right NAS for your streaming needs can be overwhelming, as there are numerous options available with varying features and price points. To help you navigate this complex landscape, we’ve compiled a list of the 18 best NAS devices for streaming. Our selection includes a diverse range of models from leading brands, catering to different budgets and storage requirements. Whether you’re a casual streamer or a tech enthusiast with an extensive media library, we’ve got you covered.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the key features and considerations for choosing a NAS device for streaming. We’ll examine factors like storage capacity, processing power, streaming capabilities, and ease of use. We’ll also provide detailed reviews of each recommended NAS, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best NAS devices for streaming and be equipped to choose the perfect one for your needs.
So, let’s dive into the world of NAS devices and discover how they can elevate your streaming experience. Whether you’re looking for a simple and affordable solution or a high-performance powerhouse, this guide will provide you with the insights you need to make the right choice.
| QUICKLIST | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Synology DiskStation DS923+ |  |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| QNAP TS-h873AX |  |
4.1 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUSTOR AS6704T |  |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TerraMaster F5-423 |  |
4.1 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Synology DiskStation DS220+ |  |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| QNAP TS-253D |  |
4.4 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Synology DiskStation DS1522+ |  |
4.7 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Netgear ReadyNAS 426 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Synology DiskStation DS1821+ |  |
4.7 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Synology DiskStation DS923+
A powerful and versatile NAS with a focus on performance and scalability.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Bays: 9
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 10GbE
- Features: Synology DSM operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and extensive app support.
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance for demanding tasks
- Scalable storage with 9 drive bays
- Robust security features
- User-friendly Synology DSM operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to other NAS models
- May be overkill for casual users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a powerful NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or large file transfers.
- You require a high level of security and data protection.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and extensive app support.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You don't need the high performance or scalability of this model.
- You are a casual user who only needs basic storage functionality.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is a fantastic choice for users who need a powerful and versatile NAS. It offers excellent performance, scalability, security, and a user-friendly interface. However, it's on the expensive side, making it less ideal for casual users or those on a tight budget. If you're looking for a NAS that can handle demanding workloads and offers a wide range of features, the DS923+ is an excellent investment.
QNAP TS-h873AX
QNAP's high-performance NAS with a focus on high-end features and storage capacity.
You can find more information on 18 Best Network Attached Storage for Streaming
Specifications :
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700G
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB)
- Bays: 8
- Network: 2x 2.5GbE, 2x 10GbE
- Features: QNAP QTS operating system, flexible storage management, advanced hardware features, and a wide range of applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful performance for demanding workloads
- Large storage capacity with 8 drive bays
- Advanced hardware features, including 10GbE connectivity
- Comprehensive QTS operating system with extensive app support
Reasons to avoid :
- High price tag
- May be overkill for casual users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a high-performance NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or 4K video streaming.
- You require a large storage capacity with ample room for expansion.
- You want a NAS with advanced features and robust security.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a limited budget.
- You don't need the high performance or advanced features of this model.
- You are a casual user who only needs basic storage functionality.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-h873AX is a powerhouse NAS designed for users who demand the very best. With its powerful processor, abundant storage capacity, advanced features, and comprehensive operating system, it's a top choice for professionals, enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a high-performance and reliable storage solution. However, its high price point makes it less suitable for casual users or those with limited budgets.
ASUSTOR AS6704T
A versatile and feature-rich NAS that offers a balance between performance and affordability.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron J6412
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Bays: 4
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 10GbE
- Features: ASUSTOR ADM operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and a range of applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Good performance for everyday tasks
- Affordable price
- Versatile features, including 10GbE connectivity
- User-friendly ADM operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited storage capacity with only 4 drive bays
- Performance may not be ideal for demanding workloads
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS with a good balance of performance and affordability.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features.
- You need a NAS with 10GbE connectivity for faster data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS with a large storage capacity.
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or 4K video streaming.
- You are looking for the absolute highest performance.
Bottom Line:
The ASUSTOR AS6704T is a solid choice for users who need a versatile and affordable NAS. It offers good performance for everyday tasks, a user-friendly interface, and a range of features, including 10GbE connectivity. While it may not be the most powerful NAS on the market, it's a great value for its price. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich NAS without breaking the bank, the AS6704T is worth considering.
TerraMaster F5-423
A budget-friendly NAS with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
Specifications :
- CPU: Realtek RTD1619B
- RAM: 2GB DDR4 (expandable to 8GB)
- Bays: 5
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: TerraMaster TOS operating system, basic storage management, and a few essential apps.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Simple and easy to use
- Compact design
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited performance
- Basic features
- Limited storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are on a tight budget.
- You only need basic storage functionality for personal use.
- You want a NAS that's simple to set up and use.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads.
- You need a NAS with advanced features.
- You need a NAS with a large storage capacity.
Bottom Line:
The TerraMaster F5-423 is a basic and affordable NAS that's ideal for casual users who need a simple storage solution. It's easy to set up and use, and its price is very appealing. However, its limited performance and basic features make it unsuitable for demanding users or those who need a high-performance NAS.
Synology DiskStation DS220+
A compact and affordable NAS that offers a balance of features and performance.
Specifications :
- CPU: Realtek RTD1296
- RAM: 2GB DDR4 (expandable to 6GB)
- Bays: 2
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: Synology DSM operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and a range of applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Compact size
- User-friendly Synology DSM operating system
- Good performance for basic tasks
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited storage capacity with only 2 drive bays
- Performance may be limited for demanding workloads
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a small and affordable NAS for personal use.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and a range of features.
- You need a NAS for basic tasks like file storage and sharing.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS with a large storage capacity.
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or 4K video streaming.
- You are looking for the absolute highest performance.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS220+ is a great entry-level NAS for users who need a compact, affordable, and user-friendly storage solution. It's perfect for small homes or offices where space is limited. While it's not the most powerful NAS on the market, it offers a good balance of features and performance at an attractive price. If you're looking for a simple and reliable NAS for everyday tasks, the DS220+ is a great option.
QNAP TS-253D
A versatile and feature-rich NAS that offers a balance of performance and affordability.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron J4125
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 8GB)
- Bays: 2
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: QNAP QTS operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and a range of applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Good performance for everyday tasks
- Affordable price
- Versatile features, including container support and a built-in HDMI port.
- User-friendly QTS operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited storage capacity with only 2 drive bays
- Performance may not be ideal for demanding workloads
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS with a good balance of performance and affordability.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features.
- You need a NAS for basic tasks like file storage, sharing, and streaming.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS with a large storage capacity.
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or 4K video streaming.
- You are looking for the absolute highest performance.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-253D is a versatile and affordable NAS that offers a good balance of features and performance. It's a great option for users who need a reliable and user-friendly NAS for everyday tasks. While it's not the most powerful NAS on the market, it's a good value for its price. If you're looking for a NAS with a wide range of features and a user-friendly interface without breaking the bank, the TS-253D is worth considering.
Synology DiskStation DS1522+
A powerful and scalable NAS with a focus on performance and security.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Bays: 5
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: Synology DSM operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and extensive app support.
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance for demanding tasks
- Scalable storage with 5 drive bays
- Robust security features
- User-friendly Synology DSM operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to other NAS models
- May be overkill for casual users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a powerful NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or large file transfers.
- You require a high level of security and data protection.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and extensive app support.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You don't need the high performance or scalability of this model.
- You are a casual user who only needs basic storage functionality.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS1522+ is a fantastic choice for users who need a powerful and versatile NAS. It offers excellent performance, scalability, security, and a user-friendly interface. However, it's on the expensive side, making it less ideal for casual users or those on a tight budget. If you're looking for a NAS that can handle demanding workloads and offers a wide range of features, the DS1522+ is an excellent investment.
Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra
A user-friendly and affordable NAS designed for home users.
Specifications :
- CPU: Marvell Armada 385
- RAM: 2GB DDR3
- Bays: 2
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: Western Digital's cloud-based software platform, built-in security, and a few essential applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- User-friendly interface
- Easy setup and management
- Built-in cloud features
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited performance
- Basic features
- Small storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are on a tight budget.
- You need a simple NAS for personal use.
- You want a NAS with built-in cloud features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads.
- You need a NAS with advanced features.
- You need a NAS with a large storage capacity.
Bottom Line:
The Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra is a basic and affordable NAS that's a great option for casual users who need a simple storage solution. It's easy to set up and use, and its price is very appealing. However, its limited performance and basic features make it unsuitable for demanding users or those who need a high-performance NAS.
Netgear ReadyNAS 426
A robust and reliable NAS with a focus on data protection and scalability.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Celeron J4125
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 8GB)
- Bays: 4
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet
- Features: Netgear's ReadyNAS OS operating system, built-in RAID protection, flexible storage management, and a range of applications.
Reasons to buy :
- Reliable and robust performance
- Excellent data protection features
- Scalable storage with 4 drive bays
- User-friendly ReadyNAS OS operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to other NAS models
- May be overkill for casual users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a reliable NAS for mission-critical data storage.
- You require a high level of data protection and redundancy.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and a range of features.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You don't need the advanced data protection features of this model.
- You are a casual user who only needs basic storage functionality.
Bottom Line:
The Netgear ReadyNAS 426 is a solid choice for users who need a reliable and robust NAS with excellent data protection features. It's a great option for businesses or individuals who need to ensure their data is safe and secure. While it's on the expensive side, it's worth the investment if you need a NAS with a high level of reliability and data protection.
Synology DiskStation DS1821+
A powerful and scalable NAS with a focus on performance and security.
Specifications :
- CPU: Intel Atom C3538
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 32GB)
- Bays: 8
- Network: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 10GbE
- Features: Synology DSM operating system, built-in security, flexible storage management, and extensive app support.
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance for demanding tasks
- Scalable storage with 8 drive bays
- Robust security features
- User-friendly Synology DSM operating system
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to other NAS models
- May be overkill for casual users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a powerful NAS for demanding workloads like video editing or large file transfers.
- You require a high level of security and data protection.
- You want a NAS with a user-friendly interface and extensive app support.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You don't need the high performance or scalability of this model.
- You are a casual user who only needs basic storage functionality.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is a fantastic choice for users who need a powerful and versatile NAS. It offers excellent performance, scalability, security, and a user-friendly interface. However, it's on the expensive side, making it less ideal for casual users or those on a tight budget. If you're looking for a NAS that can handle demanding workloads and offers a wide range of features, the DS1821+ is an excellent investment.
QNAP TS-453D
A powerful and versatile NAS with a focus on multimedia and entertainment.
Find more on 15 Best Network Attached Storage Software
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 2GB DDR3L (expandable up to 8GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2
- Other features: HDMI output, USB 3.0 ports, 10GbE expansion
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent performance: The TS-453D delivers fast file transfer speeds and smooth streaming capabilities.
- Versatile features: It supports a wide range of applications, including Plex media server, download station, and VPN server.
- Affordable price: Compared to other NAS devices with similar features, the TS-453D is very affordable.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited RAM: 2GB of RAM is adequate for basic tasks but may be insufficient for more demanding applications.
- No built-in 10GbE: You'll need to purchase a separate 10GbE expansion card to take advantage of the fastest network speeds.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for multimedia streaming, file sharing, and basic productivity tasks.
- You're on a budget and want a NAS with a good balance of performance and features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads such as video editing or virtualization.
- You're looking for a NAS with built-in 10GbE networking.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-453D is an excellent choice for users looking for a versatile and affordable NAS that can handle multimedia streaming, file sharing, and basic productivity tasks. While it doesn't have the raw processing power or expansive RAM of more premium NAS devices, it delivers impressive performance for the price and comes with a wide range of features that will be appreciated by home users and small businesses alike. The TS-453D strikes a balance between price and performance, offering a great entry point for those new to NAS technology.
ASUSTOR AS5304T
A reliable and feature-rich NAS built for demanding users.
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 2GB DDR3L (expandable up to 8GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2
- Other features: HDMI output, USB 3.0 ports, 10GbE expansion
Reasons to buy :
- Solid performance: The AS5304T provides reliable performance for both file sharing and multimedia streaming.
- Advanced features: It offers a wide range of features, including a built-in VPN server, a robust security suite, and a comprehensive file management system.
- User-friendly interface: The ASUSTOR ADM operating system is known for its intuitive interface and ease of use.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited RAM: 2GB of RAM is adequate for basic tasks but may be insufficient for more demanding applications.
- No built-in 10GbE: You'll need to purchase a separate 10GbE expansion card to take advantage of the fastest network speeds.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads such as video editing or virtualization.
- You're looking for a NAS with a comprehensive set of features and a user-friendly interface.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a very tight budget.
- You need a NAS with built-in 10GbE networking.
Bottom Line:
The ASUSTOR AS5304T is a well-rounded NAS that caters to both home users and small businesses. Its solid performance, advanced features, and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich storage solution. While it might not be the cheapest option on the market, it offers a good balance of value and performance, making it a worthy contender in the crowded NAS market.
Synology DiskStation DS1621xs+
A high-performance NAS designed for demanding users and businesses.
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Xeon D-1521 4-core 2.4GHz
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 ECC (expandable up to 32GB)
- Storage: 6 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2, 10GbE x 1
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional performance: The DS1621xs+ offers blazing-fast speeds for demanding workloads, making it ideal for video editing, virtualization, and other resource-intensive tasks.
- Scalability: With its six drive bays and expandable RAM, the DS1621xs+ provides ample room for storage and performance growth.
- Robust security: Synology's DSM operating system is known for its robust security features, providing peace of mind for sensitive data.
Reasons to avoid :
- Higher price: The DS1621xs+ is a premium NAS, which reflects in its higher price point.
- Power consumption: Due to its powerful hardware, the DS1621xs+ consumes more power than other NAS devices.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads, such as video editing, virtualization, and large file transfers.
- You prioritize performance and security and are willing to invest in a premium NAS.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a NAS for basic file sharing and multimedia streaming.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS1621xs+ is a powerhouse NAS designed for users who demand the best in terms of performance, scalability, and security. Its powerful hardware, expansive storage capacity, and comprehensive features make it an ideal solution for demanding workloads, such as video editing, virtualization, and large file transfers. If you're looking for a NAS that can handle anything you throw at it and are willing to invest in the best, the DS1621xs+ is a top contender. However, its high price point and power consumption may make it unsuitable for casual users or those on a budget.
QNAP TVS-h873AX
A high-performance NAS with a focus on multimedia streaming and storage.
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Xeon D-1521 4-core 2.4GHz
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 ECC (expandable up to 32GB)
- Storage: 8 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2, 10GbE x 1
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output, 4K video playback
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional multimedia capabilities: The TVS-h873AX delivers smooth 4K video playback and supports a wide range of multimedia codecs, making it ideal for streaming and media storage.
- High performance: Its powerful hardware ensures fast file transfer speeds and smooth multitasking capabilities.
- Scalable storage: With its eight drive bays and support for various RAID configurations, the TVS-h873AX offers ample storage capacity for growing media libraries.
Reasons to avoid :
- High price: The TVS-h873AX is a premium NAS with a high price tag.
- Power consumption: Due to its powerful hardware, the TVS-h873AX consumes more power than other NAS devices.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for storing and streaming large media libraries, including 4K video.
- You value performance and multimedia capabilities and are willing to invest in a premium NAS.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a NAS for basic file sharing and don't require advanced multimedia features.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TVS-h873AX is a top-of-the-line NAS that delivers exceptional performance and multimedia capabilities. Its powerful hardware, spacious storage capacity, and comprehensive multimedia support make it a dream come true for media enthusiasts and professionals who demand the best. Whether you're storing a massive video library, streaming 4K content to multiple devices, or working with demanding media projects, the TVS-h873AX can handle it all. However, its high price point and power consumption are factors to consider before making a purchase.
Synology DiskStation DS1019+
A versatile and affordable NAS that offers excellent performance.
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 4GB DDR4 (expandable up to 8GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent value: The DS1019+ offers a great balance of performance and features for its price.
- Versatile applications: It supports a wide range of applications, including Plex media server, download station, and VPN server.
- User-friendly interface: Synology's DSM operating system is known for its intuitive interface and ease of use.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited RAM: 4GB of RAM is sufficient for basic tasks but may be insufficient for more demanding applications.
- No 10GbE support: The DS1019+ lacks built-in 10GbE connectivity, so you'll need to purchase a separate expansion card if you require those speeds.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for file sharing, multimedia streaming, and basic productivity tasks.
- You're looking for a NAS that offers excellent value for its price.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads such as video editing or virtualization.
- You require built-in 10GbE connectivity.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS1019+ is a versatile and affordable NAS that offers excellent value for its price. It strikes a great balance between performance and features, making it a great choice for home users and small businesses alike. While it doesn't have the raw power or expansive RAM of more premium NAS devices, the DS1019+ delivers impressive performance and comes with a comprehensive set of features that will be appreciated by users seeking a reliable and easy-to-use storage solution.
QNAP TS-x73
A high-performance NAS designed for demanding workloads.
Explore further with 16 Best Network Attached Storage Media Players for 2024
Find more on 28 Best SOHO Network Attached Storage Solutions
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Xeon D-1521 4-core 2.4GHz
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 ECC (expandable up to 32GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2, 10GbE x 1
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output, 4K video playback
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional performance: The TS-x73 delivers blazing-fast speeds for demanding workloads, such as video editing, virtualization, and large file transfers.
- Scalable storage: With its four drive bays and support for various RAID configurations, the TS-x73 offers ample storage capacity for growing data needs.
- Robust security: QNAP's QTS operating system is known for its robust security features, providing peace of mind for sensitive data.
Reasons to avoid :
- Higher price: The TS-x73 is a premium NAS, which reflects in its higher price point.
- Limited drive bays: The TS-x73 only has four drive bays, which may be insufficient for users with large data storage needs.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads, such as video editing, virtualization, and large file transfers.
- You prioritize performance and security and are willing to invest in a premium NAS.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a NAS with a large number of drive bays for extensive storage needs.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-x73 is a powerful NAS designed for users who demand the best in terms of performance and security. Its exceptional processing power, scalable storage capacity, and robust security features make it an ideal solution for demanding workloads, such as video editing, virtualization, and large file transfers. While its higher price point and limited drive bays might be drawbacks for some users, the TS-x73's unparalleled performance and comprehensive features make it a top contender for businesses and individuals seeking a high-end storage solution.
WD My Cloud Pro PR4100
A user-friendly NAS designed for both home and business use.
Specifications :
- Processor: Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 2GB DDR4 (expandable up to 8GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 2
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports, cloud storage integration
Reasons to buy :
- Easy setup and use: The My Cloud Pro PR4100 is known for its simple setup process and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both tech-savvy and novice users.
- Seamless cloud integration: Its integration with WD's cloud storage service simplifies file access and sharing from anywhere.
- Affordable price: The My Cloud Pro PR4100 is competitively priced compared to other NAS devices with similar features.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited performance: The My Cloud Pro PR4100 offers decent performance for basic tasks but may struggle with demanding workloads.
- Limited features: It lacks some advanced features found in other NAS devices, such as VPN server support and robust security tools.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for basic file sharing, multimedia streaming, and remote access.
- You prioritize ease of use and affordability over advanced features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads such as video editing or virtualization.
- You require a wide range of advanced features and robust security tools.
Bottom Line:
The WD My Cloud Pro PR4100 is a user-friendly and affordable NAS that is ideal for users who prioritize ease of use and seamless cloud integration. Its simple setup process, user-friendly interface, and affordable price point make it a great option for home users and small businesses who need a basic and reliable storage solution. However, if you're looking for a NAS with top-of-the-line performance, a comprehensive set of features, and robust security tools, you might be better off exploring other options.
Synology DiskStation DS423j
A budget-friendly NAS designed for basic file sharing and multimedia streaming.
Specifications :
- Processor: Realtek RTD1296 quad-core 1.4GHz
- RAM: 1GB DDR4 (expandable up to 2GB)
- Storage: 4 x 3.5" SATA drive bays
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet x 1
- Other features: USB 3.0 ports
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price: The DS423j is one of the most affordable NAS devices on the market, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
- Easy setup and use: Synology's DSM operating system is known for its intuitive interface and ease of use, making it suitable for novice users.
- Decent performance: While not the fastest NAS on the market, the DS423j delivers adequate performance for basic tasks such as file sharing and multimedia streaming.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited RAM: 1GB of RAM is sufficient for basic tasks but may be insufficient for more demanding applications.
- Limited features: The DS423j lacks some advanced features found in other NAS devices, such as VPN server support and a comprehensive security suite.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a NAS for basic file sharing and multimedia streaming and are on a tight budget.
- You prioritize affordability and ease of use over advanced features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a NAS for demanding workloads such as video editing or virtualization.
- You require a wide range of advanced features and robust security tools.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS423j is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who need a simple and reliable NAS for basic file sharing and multimedia streaming. Its affordable price, user-friendly interface, and decent performance make it a great option for home users who are just starting out with NAS technology. While it lacks some advanced features and might not be suitable for demanding workloads, the DS423j delivers on its promise of affordability and ease of use, making it a compelling choice for those who need a basic and cost-effective storage solution.
Choosing the right NAS for your streaming needs can feel overwhelming, but with this guide, you're equipped to make an informed decision. Consider your storage capacity requirements, the number of simultaneous streams you need, and your budget. Don't forget to factor in features like Plex compatibility, media transcoding capabilities, and remote access for seamless streaming experiences.
Investing in a NAS isn't just about storage; it's about creating a centralized media hub for your entertainment. From organizing your digital library to providing on-the-go access to your movies, shows, and music, a good NAS will elevate your streaming experience and enhance your home entertainment setup.
Remember, the best NAS for streaming is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. With this list of 18 top contenders, you're sure to find the perfect device to streamline your streaming and create a truly personalized entertainment experience.
Whether you're a casual streamer or a serious home theater enthusiast, a reliable NAS can revolutionize the way you consume media. Explore the options, choose wisely, and enjoy the freedom of a truly personalized streaming experience.
Karim