Best NAS Devices for Home Users: Top Options Reviewed

Network-attached storage (NAS) devices have become essential for home users seeking reliable backup solutions and more. These devices offer a wide range of functionalities beyond just backup, such as serving as collaborative file servers, web servers, virtual machines, and media centers. From small single-drive units to large rack-mounted enterprise-focused machines, NAS options cater to various needs. In this article, we focus on consumer-grade NAS devices, testing and evaluating the best options available.

When choosing a NAS, several factors should be considered, such as the number of drive bays, port selection, internal file system support, drive compatibility, interface, and hardware specifications. The number of drive bays is critical for data redundancy, while port selection determines connectivity options. Internal file system support impacts data management, and drive compatibility ensures seamless integration. The interface and features of a NAS play a crucial role in user experience, while hardware specifications like RAM and CPU influence performance.

Synology DS220+ stands out as the best overall NAS device and an excellent home media server. Equipped with a 2.0 GHz dual-core Intel Celeron J4025 CPU and 2GB RAM (expandable to 6GB), the DS220+ offers an intuitive OS, link aggregation support, one-touch backups, and quiet operation. Its software features, like Synology Photos and Cloud Sync app, enhance user experience. Synology’s proprietary RAID, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), provides flexibility and efficient storage utilization. Despite some limitations in write speeds and RAM expansion, the DS220+ excels as a media server with hardware transcoding capabilities.

For budget-conscious users, the TerraMaster F4-210 offers an affordable 4-bay NAS solution. Powered by a 1.4 GHz quad-core Realtek RTD1296 CPU and 1-2GB RAM, the F4-210 provides snappy performance and a user-friendly interface. While lacking in software library and media apps, the TerraMaster NAS performs well in benchmarks, making it a cost-effective option for basic NAS needs.

QNAP TS-253D is ideal for users prioritizing backups. With a 2.0 GHz quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 CPU and 4GB RAM (expandable to 8GB), the TS-253D offers dual 2.5GbE ports, PCIe expansion for high-speed connectivity, and broad cloud backup support. Its Hybrid Backup Sync app simplifies backup management, and Security Counselor enhances data security. Although the learning curve may be steep, the TS-253D excels in backup versatility and security features.

For users seeking maximum data security, the ioSafe 218 NAS provides robust protection against physical threats like fire and water damage. With fireproof and waterproof features, the ioSafe NAS ensures data integrity in extreme conditions. While pricey and bulky, the ioSafe 218 offers peace of mind for users prioritizing data safety.

Overall, the choice of a NAS device depends on individual needs and preferences. While the featured NAS devices excel in specific aspects, exploring other options like Synology DS420+ and TrueNAS systems can provide tailored solutions for diverse requirements. Stay informed about evolving NAS technologies and consider factors like performance, security, and affordability to make the best choice for your home or office network.