Top NAS Picks for 2025: Store Games, Movies, and More

If you own one of the best gaming PCs or laptops and need a robust solution to back up or transfer your valuable data, a top-notch SSD or external hard drive might not be enough. Enter the world of NAS (network-attached storage) drives, where our top recommendation is the Synology DiskStation DS224+.

TL;DR – These are the Best NAS Devices:

Our Top Pick

Synology DiskStation DS224+

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UGREEN NASync DXP2800

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Synology DiskStation DS223j

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Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

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Synology DiskStation DS1821+

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QNAP TS-264-8G

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Synology DiskStation DS923+

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ioSafe Duo Pro

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NAS drives are essential for those needing significant storage capacity that connects to your home network, enabling seamless data transfer across smartphones, tablets, desktops, and laptops. They're perfect for managing digital media libraries but come at a premium, so choosing the right one is crucial. Here are eight top NAS options tailored to various needs.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick

Synology DiskStation DS224+

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Easy-to-use, blazing fast NAS featuring two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB upgradable RAM.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
• RAID Level: SHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
• Size: 9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Fast quad-core processor

Cons:

• No multi-gig LAN port

The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is perfect for those who want a straightforward yet powerful NAS. With two drive bays, you can opt for up to 32TB of storage or a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. Its dual Gigabit LAN ports support high-speed connections, although a multi-gig LAN port would be a welcome addition. Synology's user-friendly interface and versatile apps make it ideal for storing security camera footage, running a Plex server, or managing files and photos. The Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM (upgradable) ensure smooth performance, even with 4K media transcoding.

2. UGREEN NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

UGREEN NASync DXP2800

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With quality hardware, a stylish design, and a modest price, this NAS, which comes with dual drive bays, is ready to back up all your files.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB, HDMI
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, Basic
• Storage: 2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: Not listed

Pros:

• Comprehensive OS and apps
• Multi-gig ethernet

Cons:

• No native Plex

The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 offers great value with its Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, perfect for managing high-quality video libraries and hardware transcoding. Its comprehensive OS simplifies setup and network configuration, with added security features like two-factor authentication. While Plex isn't native, it's easy to install via Docker. The dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, and two M.2 slots can accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB. A 2.5Gb ethernet port ensures speedy transfers, complemented by HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

Synology DiskStation DS223j

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Ultra affordable and easy-to-use NAS that’s perfect for beginners.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB
• RAID Level: Basic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHR
• Storage: 2 x 3.5" bays
• Size: 6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"

Pros:

• Reliable hardware
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Lacks multi-gig ethernet port

The Synology DiskStation DS223j is the ideal choice for NAS newcomers and those with basic storage needs. It runs on Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering a wide range of applications for seamless file storage and access across devices. While its plastic build and screwdriver-required assembly might not impress, its affordability, simplicity, and reliability are unmatched. It supports up to 32TB of storage but lacks M.2 slots and a multi-gig ethernet port.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

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Hardware like an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, drive bays that support 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, and two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots ensure this NAS can keep up.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.0, HDMI
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: 9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"

Pros:

• Dual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storage
• Supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding

Cons:

• Drive installation is more involved

The Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is a powerhouse for those who need extensive customization. With an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of upgradable RAM, it's ready for heavy workloads. The two drive bays support both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, while two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots offer even faster storage options. Dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports enable up to 5Gb connectivity with link aggregation, making it perfect for backups, virtualization, or a robust media center. It also features an HDMI 2.0 port for 4K HDR playback.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

Synology DiskStation DS1821+

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For those who need excess amounts of storage, grab this NAS that delivers eight drive bays for a total 128TB capacity and even has M.2 2280 NVMe slots.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2
• RAID Level: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)
• Storage: 8 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
• Size: 18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"

Pros:

• Wild 128TB capacity
• Hot-swappable drives

Cons:

• Can get noisy

The Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is the ultimate choice for those with vast storage needs. With eight drive bays supporting up to 128TB of storage, it's perfect for future-proofing your data. Hot-swappable drives and M.2 2280 NVMe slots for caching add to its versatility. The quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory (expandable to 32GB) provide ample power for demanding tasks.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

QNAP TS-264-8G

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Enjoy a central location for your media library with this NAS offering two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, dual drive bays, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, HDMI
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBOD
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
• Size: 8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"

Pros:

• Compact design
• Impressive hardware

Cons:

• Software is harder to master

The QNAP TS-264-8G is designed for seamless media streaming. Its dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports ensure robust network performance, and the built-in 4K HDMI output makes it perfect for TV setups. With two 3.5-inch drive bays and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching, it's ready for extensive media libraries. The Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory support smooth 4K video streaming with hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

Synology DiskStation DS923+

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Be extra secure in your data backup, as this NAS offers four drive bays for ample storage and the ability to run it in redundancy with several RAID configurations.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: Ethernet, USB 3.2, eSATA
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBOD
• Storage: 4 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slots
• Size: 6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7"

Pros:

• Offers various RAID levels
• Expandable storage and RAM

Cons:

• No multi-gig LAN port

The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is ideal for those prioritizing data security with its four drive bays and multiple RAID options. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, SHR, Basic, and JBOD, ensuring your data is well-protected. Two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots enhance performance, and the dual-core AMD Ryzen processor with 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM ensures smooth operation.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

ioSafe Duo Pro

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Though technically not a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro drive keeps your data safe from fire and water while offering RAID configurations as an extra blanket of protection.
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Product Specifications

• Connection: USB 3.2
• RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPAN
• Storage: 2 x 3.5"/2.5" bays
• Size: 11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"

Pros:

• Fireproof and water-resistant
• Offers two robust, long-lasting drive bays

Cons:

• Not designed to be a NAS

The ioSafe Duo Pro is designed for those concerned about physical damage to their storage solutions. It's fireproof and water-resistant, with an IP68 rating for submersion protection. While not a traditional NAS, it offers RAID configurations and robust drive bays, ensuring data safety. For network access, it requires an always-on computer or direct router connection via USB.

What to Look for in NAS

NAS devices are perfect for homes where multiple devices share a network, allowing centralized file sharing and backups. They're also ideal for managing large media libraries accessible from various devices, like turning your NAS into a Plex server.

What are you using it for?

Consider a NAS if you need to share files across multiple devices or want a centralized backup solution. They're also excellent for media streaming, offering access to movies, TV shows, and music from any device in your home.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices are diskless, requiring you to purchase drives separately. Check manufacturer recommendations for compatible drives. The number of bays determines potential storage capacity; two or more bays are recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.