If you own one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, you'll need a reliable way to back up or transfer your precious data. Even if you have a top SSD or spacious external hard drives filled with essential files, photos, and other content, nothing quite matches the convenience and efficiency of a great NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Our top pick, the Synology DiskStation DS224+, stands out for its robust performance and versatility.

TL;DR – These are the Best NAS Devices:

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0See it at Amazon### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0See it at Amazon### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0See it at Amazon### QNAP TS-264-8G

0See it at Amazon### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0See it at Amazon### ioSafe Duo Pro

0See it at ioSafeThe best NAS drives offer significant storage capacity and seamlessly integrate into your home network, allowing quick data transfers to and from your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, these devices can be connected simultaneously, making NAS perfect for managing digital media libraries. However, NAS units can be pricey, so it's crucial to choose wisely. We've narrowed down the options to eight excellent choices for various needs.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is an easy-to-use, high-speed NAS with two drive bays, dual Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelSHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"PROSEasy-to-use interfaceFast quad-core processorCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS224+ is perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of complex software or settling for simple hardware. With two drive bays, you can opt for up to 32TB of storage or a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The dual Gigabit LAN ports support higher speeds with Link Aggregation or network failover, though we wish it included a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN for even faster connections.

Synology's versatile apps and user-friendly interface make it easy to set up for various uses, from storing security camera footage to running as a Plex server or safeguarding files and photos. With its powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, which is upgradable, the DiskStation DS224+ handles 4K media transcoding, file management, and smooth video streaming with ease.

2. UGreen NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0This NAS, with its dual drive bays and quality hardware, offers a stylish design at a modest price, making it ideal for backing up all your files. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB, HDMIRAID Level JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, BasicStorage2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSizeNot listedPROSComprehensive OS and appsMulti-gig ethernetCONSNo native Plex The UGreen NASync DXP2800 combines quality hardware with a sleek design at a midrange price. Powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, it's well-suited for managing high-quality video libraries and handles hardware transcoding effortlessly.

UGreen's comprehensive OS simplifies setup and network configuration, while extra security features like two-factor authentication keep your content secure. Backing up files and setting up a cloud server for remote access is straightforward. Although Plex isn't natively supported, it's easy to install via Docker without sacrificing performance.

The dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, providing ample space for media or redundant RAID configurations. UGreen's toolless system simplifies drive installation, and two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB for additional fast storage. A 2.5Gb ethernet ensures speedy SATA file transfers, complemented by HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports for versatile device connectivity.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0An ultra-affordable and user-friendly NAS perfect for beginners. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USBRAID LevelBasic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHRStorage2 x 3.5" baysSize6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"PROSReliable hardwareEasy to useCONSLacks multi-gig ethernet portThe Synology DiskStation DS223j is ideal for NAS newcomers and those with simpler storage needs. It runs on Synology's top-rated DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering a comprehensive suite of applications that make storing and accessing files across devices effortless.

While its build quality is modest, primarily plastic, and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, it's not a frequent task. The DS223j supports up to 32TB across two 3.5” SATA drives but lacks M.2 slots and multi-gig ethernet. However, its simplicity, reliability, and affordability are unmatched in its class.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0Equipped with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, and drive bays supporting both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, plus two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots, this NAS meets the needs of power users. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.0, HDMIRAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"PROSDual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storageSupports 10-bit 4K hardware decodingCONSDrive installation is more involvedThe Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is ideal for those who demand more from their NAS. With an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM (upgradable to 8GB), it's a powerhouse. The two drive bays support either massive 18TB hard drives or speedy SSDs, and two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots ensure even faster performance.

Dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports, combinable for 5Gb connectivity via link aggregation, support speedy backups, virtualization, and media centers. An HDMI 2.0 port and 10-bit 4K hardware decoding capability make it perfect for a 4K HDR experience.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0With eight drive bays offering a total capacity of 128TB and M.2 2280 NVMe slots, this NAS is perfect for those needing extensive storage. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)Storage8 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"PROSWild 128TB capacityHot-swappable drivesCONSCan get noisyThe Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is ideal for storing vast amounts of data and ensuring easy access across multiple devices. While it comes with a hefty price tag of over $1,000, it offers unparalleled expandability.

This NAS features eight drive bays for 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, providing up to 128TB of storage with hot-swappable drives. Expansion units can increase capacity to 18 drive bays, and M.2 2280 NVMe slots support high-speed caching. Powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory (upgradable to 32GB), it's built for the future.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

### QNAP TS-264-8G

0This NAS offers a central hub for your media library with two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, dual drive bays, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, HDMIRAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBODStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"PROSCompact designImpressive hardwareCONSSoftware is harder to masterThe QNAP TS-264-8G is tailored for media streaming, providing a central location for all your devices to access your media library. Dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports ensure sufficient bandwidth for multiple users accessing large media files, and a 4K HDMI output allows direct connection to your TV.

With two 3.5-inch drive bays and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or network speed enhancements, it's powered by an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, ensuring smooth 4K video streams with hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0Ensure extra data security with this NAS offering four drive bays for ample storage and various RAID configurations for redundancy. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, eSATARAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBODStorage4 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7" PROSOffers various RAID levelsExpandable storage and RAMCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS923+ is perfect for those who prioritize data backup and security through RAID configurations. With four drive bays, you can maximize storage and redundancy with options including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD.

The DS923+ supports 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, with two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. Two 1Gb ethernet ports support Link Aggregation or Failover, with an option to add 10Gb connectivity. A dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, combined with the user-friendly DSM operating system, make setup and operation seamless.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

### ioSafe Duo Pro

0Though not technically a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro protects your data from fire and water and offers RAID configurations for added security. See it at ioSafeProduct SpecificationsConnectionUSB 3.2RAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPANStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"PROSFireproof and water-resistantOffers two robust, long-lasting drive baysCONSNot designed to be a NASThe ioSafe Duo Pro prioritizes data safety with fireproof and water-resistant construction, boasting an IP68 rating for submersion in water up to 10 feet for 72 hours.

Beyond physical protection, it offers various RAID configurations and robust, long-lasting drive bays. ioSafe even provides data recovery services. However, this direct-attach storage device isn't designed as a NAS, so you'll need to connect it to your network via an always-on computer or directly to your router via USB for network storage.

What to Look for in NAS

NAS devices can solve many networking issues, especially if you share a network with family or housemates. A NAS allows you to share files across all connected computers from one central location, simplifying backups and file access.

What are you using it for?

Consider a NAS if you need to share tools or files across multiple devices or if you manage a large media library. You can even turn your NAS into a Plex server for seamless access to movies, TV shows, and music throughout your home.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS units come without disks, requiring you to purchase drives separately. Check manufacturer recommendations for compatible disk brands. The number of bays determines potential storage capacity, with two or more bays being ideal, especially for multimedia systems.