In a world where data is becoming increasingly important, a reliable storage solution is essential. Whether for private users who want to manage their photos and videos securely or companies that need to organize large amounts of data efficiently – a NAS (Network Attached Storage) offers the perfect combination of storage space, security and flexibility. But which NAS is the right one? From powerful high-end models to inexpensive entry-level solutions, there is a wide range of options. In this article, we present the best NAS systems for different needs and show what is important when making a choice.
The best NAS 2025 in the test: Our recommendations
QNAP TS-264-8G
The QNAP TS-264-8G is a powerful 2-bay NAS specially designed for small and medium businesses as well as demanding home users. Equipped with an Intel Celeron N5095 quad-core processor clocked at up to 2.9 GHz and 8 GB DDR4 memory, it offers excellent performance for a wide range of applications. The integrated Intel UHD graphics enable efficient video processing and transcoding, which is particularly beneficial for multimedia streaming. In addition, the TS-264-8G has two 2.5GbE network ports that enable transfer speeds of up to 589MB/s through port bundling, making it a future-proof solution for high-speed networks.
A standout feature of the TS-264-8G is the two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 3 x1 slots, which enable the installation of NVMe SSDs for caching or the use of Edge TPU to accelerate AI-based applications. The existing PCIe Gen 3 x2 slot also provides flexibility for expansion, such as the installation of a 10GbE network card or a QM2 card for additional M.2 SSD slots. With these features, the TS-264-8G is ideal for data-intensive applications, virtualization and efficient multimedia streaming, while ensuring high data security and integrity.
Synology DS223j
Synology DiskStation DS223j is a compact and energy-efficient 2-bay NAS server specifically designed for home offices and small teams. With up to 36TB gross capacity, DS223j provides a centralized platform for secure data storage and management. Equipped with the easy-to-use DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, it enables cross-platform access to files and media via Synology Drive, supported by applications such as Synology Office for real-time collaboration. Integration with cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive is facilitated by Synology Cloud Sync, ensuring seamless synchronization and data sharing.
A standout feature of the DS223j is its support for the Btrfs file system, which offers advanced features such as file self-repair and quick snapshots to protect data from corruption and undo unwanted changes. For photo enthusiasts, Synology Photos provides smart tools for organizing, backing up and sharing photos and videos. In addition, the DS223j can serve as a video surveillance solution, compatible with over 8,300 IP cameras, and allows you to manage up to 12 cameras simultaneously. With its quiet and compact design, the DS223j is an ideal solution for users looking for a reliable and versatile storage solution.
QNAP TS-233
The QNAP TS-233 is a compact and energy-efficient NAS server that is ideal for home and small office use. Equipped with an ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0 GHz processor and 2 GB DDR4 RAM, it offers reliable performance for everyday applications. With two hard disk bays, the TS-233 supports up to 36 TB of storage space, providing ample capacity for backing up and managing important data. Its elegant, minimalist design blends seamlessly into any environment.
In addition to the hardware, the TS-233 offers a variety of features that increase productivity. The built-in App Center provides access to numerous applications, including QmailAgent for managing multiple email accounts and Qcontactz for centralized contact management. In addition, QNAP’s own AI engine, QNAP AI Core, enables efficient image recognition and management. With the support of myQNAPcloud, users can securely and conveniently access their data remotely, making the TS-233 a versatile solution for modern storage and collaboration needs.
Asustor AS1104T
The Asustor AS1104T, also known as the Drivestor 4, is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device that is characterized by an excellent price-performance ratio. Equipped with a Realtek RTD1296 quad-core processor and 1 GB DDR4 RAM, the AS1104T offers reliable performance for home and small office use. With four hard disk bays, the device enables a maximum storage capacity of up to 72 TB, providing sufficient space for extensive data, media libraries and backup solutions.
An outstanding feature of the AS1104T is its 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connection, which enables up to 2.5 times the speed of conventional 1 Gigabit connections. This ensures fast data transfers and smooth access to stored content. The device also supports various RAID configurations, including single, JBOD, RAID 0 and RAID 1, to meet different data security and performance requirements. With the user-friendly ADM (Asustor Data Master) operating system, the AS1104T offers an intuitive user interface and a variety of apps that extend the functionality of the NAS and can be customized to individual needs.
Synology DS224+
Synology DiskStation DS224+ is a compact and powerful NAS system with two hard disk bays, ideal for home users and small businesses. Equipped with a quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 processor and 2GB DDR4 RAM expandable up to 6GB, DS224+ provides fast and efficient data processing. The two drive bays support 3.5-inch HDDs and 2.5-inch SSDs, with a maximum storage capacity of 14 TB per drive. Connections include two Gigabit Ethernet ports for link aggregation and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 interfaces for additional connectivity.
With the user-friendly DiskStation Manager (DSM) software, the DS224+ enables centralized management of data, efficient file synchronization and seamless integration into existing networks. Support for RAID 0, 1, JBOD and Synology Hybrid RAID provides flexible options for data protection and management. Thanks to its low power consumption of 14.69 watts in operation and 4.41 watts in sleep mode, the DS224+ is an energy-efficient solution for everyday use.
TerraMaster F2-423
The TerraMaster F2-423 is a powerful 2-bay NAS designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses that place high demands on their storage solutions. Equipped with an Intel Celeron N5095 quad-core processor with 2.0 GHz (Turbo up to 2.9 GHz) and 4 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 32 GB), the device offers impressive performance for demanding workloads. Two 2.5 GbE network connections enable fast data transfers, while the integrated AES-NI hardware encryption ensures increased data security.
An outstanding feature of the F2-423 are the two M.2 NVMe slots, which support SSD caching and thus significantly increase the storage efficiency of the system. The NAS is ideal for virtualized applications and offers support for professional virtualization apps such as VirtualBox and Docker. In addition, TerraMaster’s TOS operating system ensures a high level of system security with features such as PAM authentication, AES 256-bit encryption and firewall protection. With its combination of performance, flexibility and security features, the F2-423 is an optimal solution for companies that need a reliable and efficient network storage solution.
Tip for beginners: Synology BeeStation
The Synology BeeStation is a compact and particularly user-friendly NAS server that allows you to set up your own cloud storage at home. With dimensions of 148 mm x 63 mm x 196 mm and a weight of 820 grams, the slim design fits seamlessly into any environment. Inside, a Realtek RTD1619B six-core processor works together with 1 GB DDR4 memory, which ensures smooth performance. The integrated 4-terabyte hard disk offers sufficient storage space for personal data and media. Connections such as an RJ45 Gigabit LAN port and one USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 allow for flexible connection options.
Setting up the BeeStation is particularly easy thanks to the intuitive user interface, so that even users without in-depth technical knowledge can quickly operate their own cloud server. With the BeePhotos and BeeFiles mobile apps, the storage can be conveniently managed and used on the go. BeeStation is ideal for users who are looking for a private cloud solution that is easy to use.
What actually is a NAS?
In times of growing data volumes, the need for secure, centralized and easily accessible storage solutions is becoming ever greater. Whether for private users, small businesses or large companies – a NAS (Network Attached Storage) is one of the best ways to manage data efficiently. But what exactly is a NAS, how does it work and for whom is it worth buying? This article provides a comprehensive overview.
What does NAS mean?
NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. It is a device that can be accessed via the home or company network and serves as central data storage. Instead of storing files on individual computers or external hard disks, they can be stored on a NAS and accessed from various devices at any time and from anywhere.
How does a NAS work?
A NAS is basically a small server with several hard disks that can be used as a central data storage, backup solution or media server. Most models run a specially adapted operating system that is controlled via a user-friendly web interface.
Typical functions of a NAS:
- Central storage space: Manage files, photos, videos and documents in one place.
- Automatic backups: Regular data backups for computers and mobile devices.
- Media server: Stream movies, music and pictures on your home network.
- Remote access: Access data from anywhere via the Internet.
- RAID support: Protection against data loss through the use of multiple hard disks.
What advantages does a NAS offer?
A NAS has many advantages over conventional storage solutions:
- Security: data is not scattered on individual devices, but stored securely in a central location.
- Flexibility: Access from different devices – whether PC, smartphone or smart TV.
- Expandability: Many NAS systems can be expanded with additional hard disks or functions.
- Energy efficiency: Lower power consumption than a conventional server.
For whom is a NAS worthwhile?
A NAS is suitable for different user groups:
- Home users: Ideal for families who want to securely store and share photos, videos or documents.
- Gamers & media lovers: Perfect as a media server for movies, music and game backups.
- Self-employed & small businesses: Efficient backup and storage solution for business data.
- IT professionals: Versatile use for virtualization, web hosting or as a home server.
Conclusion: Is a NAS the right choice?
If you are looking for a reliable, centralized storage solution, a NAS is the right choice. The devices offer data security, flexibility and simple management, making them a worthwhile investment for both private users and companies. Depending on your budget and requirements, there are numerous models – from inexpensive entry-level NAS to high-performance professional solutions.
Buying NAS: What you should look out for
1. purpose: What is the NAS needed for?
Before you decide on a NAS, you should consider what you want to use it for. The requirements differ depending on the area of application:
- Home users: Ideal for data backup, media management or accessing files from multiple devices. It is particularly popular as a media server for movies, music and photos.
- Freelancers and small businesses: Often need a NAS for data backup, shared file management or private cloud services. Backup functions, security and access controls are crucial here.
- Professional users and large companies: Performance, scalability and redundancy are required here. A NAS with multiple drive bays, RAID support and fast network connections is essential.
2. number of hard disk bays
A decisive factor when purchasing a NAS is the number of hard disk bays:
- 1-bay NAS: Only one drive, no redundancy. Suitable for simple applications, but risky in the event of a hard disk failure.
- 2-bay NAS: Enables RAID 1 (mirroring) so that a hard disk can be replaced in the event of a failure without losing data.
- 4-bay NAS and more: Supports RAID 5, RAID 6 or RAID 10, offering more storage space, higher performance and reliability. Recommended for businesses or demanding users.
Tip: A NAS should always have at least one free slot so that it can be upgraded later.
3. processor and RAM
The hardware performance of a NAS determines how quickly and efficiently it works. The most important components are
- Processor: A simple dual-core processor is sufficient for file storage and backups. If you want to stream media or use virtual machines, you should choose a quad-core model with a higher clock rate.
- Working memory (RAM): 1-2 GB is sufficient for simple applications. 4 GB or more is recommended for virtualization, large amounts of data and intensive multitasking.
For NAS systems that use Plex media servers or Docker containers, a powerful processor with hardware transcoding is worthwhile.
4 Operating system and software functions
Most NAS devices have their own operating system that offers additional functions:
- Synology DSM: Particularly user-friendly with many apps for backup, cloud synchronization and multimedia.
- QNAP QTS: Very flexible, offers many apps, but with a somewhat more complex user interface.
- TrueNAS or Unraid: Ideal for DIY NAS, with many expansion options.
Important software functions:
- Automatic backups for PCs and smartphones
- Cloud synchronization with Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive
- Media server functions for Plex or Kodi
- Virtualization and Docker for advanced applications
- VPN and security functions for secure remote access
5. connection options and network
A good NAS should have fast connections:
- LAN connection: Gigabit Ethernet is standard, 2.5G or 10G Ethernet offer faster transfer rates.
- USB ports: For connecting external hard disks or for fast data backups.
- HDMI port: Only available on some models – handy if the NAS is to be used directly as a media center.
A fast network connection is particularly important if several users want to access large files at the same time or if 4K streams are to run without delay.
6 Security and data protection
A NAS is a central storage solution – and should be correspondingly secure. The following functions are important:
- User rights and encryption: Allows targeted sharing and protects sensitive data.
- RAID support: Prevents data loss in the event of hard disk failures.
- Automatic backups: Backups to a second hard disk or the cloud as regularly as possible.
- Firewall and VPN: Secures access from the Internet.
A NAS should always be operated with strong passwords, up-to-date updates and a reliable backup strategy.
Conclusion: Which NAS is the right one?
When buying a NAS, the intended use, hardware performance, software functions and security aspects play a decisive role. While entry-level models are sufficient for simple backups or media servers, companies and demanding users benefit from more powerful devices with multiple bays and a fast network connection.
In a nutshell:
- Home users: 2-bay NAS with Gigabit LAN, 2-4 GB RAM, simple operation
- Freelancers/small businesses: 4-bay NAS with RAID 5, 4-8 GB RAM, advanced security functions
- Professionals and companies: 6- or 8-bay NAS with 10G LAN, virtualization, powerful CPU and 16 GB+ RAM
Choosing the right NAS depends heavily on individual requirements. If you want to make a future-proof investment, you should look for expandable storage options, good software and security features.
