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

Are you the proud owner of one of the best gaming PCs or laptops? If you're looking for a robust solution to back up or transfer your precious data, nothing beats a top-tier NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Even if your machine boasts a top SSD or you're using sizable external hard drives for your essential files, photos, and other content, a NAS drive like our top pick, the Synology DiskStation DS224+, offers unparalleled convenience and capacity.

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 ioSafe

The best NAS drives offer substantial storage capacity and integrate seamlessly into your home network, enabling swift data transfer between your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, a NAS allows for easy synchronization, making it perfect for managing digital media libraries. However, these devices aren't cheap, so selecting the right one is crucial. We've highlighted eight excellent options tailored to various needs.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0With its user-friendly interface and blazing-fast performance, the Synology DiskStation DS224+ is a standout choice. It features two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM.
See it at Amazon

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

If you're looking to avoid the hassle of complex software or settling for basic hardware, the Synology DiskStation DS224+ is the perfect NAS for you. It offers up to 32TB of storage or a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The two Gigabit LAN ports support Link Aggregation or network failover, although we would appreciate 2.5GB or 10GB LAN support for even faster connections.

Synology's versatile apps and software are accessible via an intuitive interface, allowing you to store security camera footage, operate as a Plex server, or keep your files and photos safe and accessible. Whether you're transcoding 4K media, managing files, or streaming videos, the DiskStation DS224+ performs exceptionally well, thanks to its powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM.

2. UGreen NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0This NAS combines quality hardware, stylish design, and affordability. With dual drive bays, it's perfect for backing up your files.
See it at Amazon

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 is well-constructed and visually appealing, offering quality hardware at a midrange price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM, making it ideal for managing a high-quality video library and handling hardware transcoding.

UGreen's comprehensive OS simplifies setup and network configuration, while additional security features like two-factor authentication protect your content. Backing up files and setting up a cloud server for remote access is straightforward. Although Plex isn't native, it can be easily installed via Docker without compromising performance.

For storage, the dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, providing ample space for media or redundancy with RAID configurations. UGreen's toolless system makes drive installation a breeze. Two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB for additional fast storage. A 2.5Gb ethernet port ensures speedy SATA file transfers, and other connectivity options include HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0An ultra-affordable and user-friendly NAS ideal for beginners.
See it at Amazon

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

Not all NAS options are expensive, and the Synology DiskStation DS223j is perfect for those new to NAS or with simpler storage needs. It features Synology's acclaimed DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, providing comprehensive applications for seamless file storage and access across devices.

The build quality is basic, primarily plastic, and requires a screwdriver to install the two supported 3.5” SATA drives. However, you won't need to open the chassis often, so it's manageable. With a maximum of 32TB and no M.2 slots for caching or additional storage, plus the absence of a multi-gig ethernet port, it's straightforward, reliable, and budget-friendly.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0This NAS is packed with hardware, including an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, and drive bays for 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, plus two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots.
See it at Amazon

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

For users seeking a robust NAS, the Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is ideal. It features an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 8GB. The two drive bays support 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing for either large 18TB hard drives or speedy SSDs. Two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots provide even faster storage options.

Setting up the network is straightforward, with dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports that can be combined for 5Gb connectivity using link aggregation. Whether for speedy backups, virtualization, or a powerful media center, this NAS is versatile. It also includes an HDMI 2.0 port and supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a superior 4K HDR experience.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0For extensive storage needs, this NAS offers eight drive bays for up to 128TB capacity and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots.
See it at Amazon

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

If you have a vast amount of files, data, and content to store and access across multiple devices, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is the solution. Priced over $1,000, it offers future-proof expandability.

With eight drive bays for 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch hard drives or SSDs, it provides up to 128TB of storage, and the drives are hot-swappable. Expansion units can increase capacity to 18 drive bays, and M.2 2280 NVMe slots allow for high-speed caching. The system is powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 ECC memory, ensuring robust performance.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

### QNAP TS-264-8G

0This NAS is designed for media streaming, featuring 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

A NAS is ideal for centralizing your media library, and the QNAP TS-264-8G is optimized for streaming. It features dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports to handle high throughput, even with multiple users accessing large media files. The built-in 4K-capable HDMI output allows placement next to your TV.

The QNAP TS-264-8G includes two 3.5-inch drive bays for ample storage and two additional PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or network speeds. Powered by an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, it ensures smooth 4K video streaming with hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0Enhance data backup security with this NAS offering four drive bays and multiple RAID configurations for redundancy.
See it at Amazon

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

NAS devices excel at data backup, and the Synology DiskStation DS923+ offers robust security through multiple RAID configurations. With four drive bays, you can maximize storage while ensuring redundancy. The NAS supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD, allowing you to choose the best setup for your data.

The four bays accommodate 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, and two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots enhance speed with fast caching. Two 1Gb ethernet ports support Link Aggregation or Failover, with an option to add 10Gb connectivity. A high-performing dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, along with the user-friendly DSM operating system, ensure easy setup and operation.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

### ioSafe Duo Pro

0While not technically a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro drive offers fire and water protection and supports RAID configurations for extra data security.
See it at ioSafe

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

Using a NAS for backups is essential for data safety, but physical damage can compromise that protection. The ioSafe Duo Pro is designed to withstand fire and water, with an IP68 rating that protects against submersion up to 10 feet for 72 hours.

In addition to physical protection, the ioSafe Duo Pro supports various RAID configurations and features robust, long-lasting drive bays. ioSafe also offers data recovery services. Note that this device is direct-attach storage rather than a NAS, so to use it for network storage, you'll need to connect it to your home network via an always-on computer or directly to your router using USB.

What to Look for in NAS

NAS devices are not necessary for everyone, but they can solve specific networking issues. If you and your family or housemates share the same network, a NAS allows file sharing from a single central unit. Instead of backing up each computer individually, a NAS can handle it all on one drive.

What are you using it for?

If you find yourself needing to share files or tools across multiple devices, a NAS might be the solution. It's not just about storage but also about easy access.

Another use case is managing a large media library that you want to access from various devices. You can turn your NAS into a Plex server, ensuring everyone in your home can enjoy the same movies, TV shows, and music.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices are sold without disk drives, requiring separate purchases. NAS manufacturers often don't produce hard drives, so they sell their devices without disks. If you already own compatible drives, this isn't an issue, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal performance.

The number of bays in a NAS determines its potential storage capacity. Generally, two or more bays are recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.