Finding a reliable NAS with 4 bays for home can be a game-changer for data storage, media streaming, and backups. The Synology DS925+ stands out as the best overall for its balance of performance and user experience, while the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus offers excellent value for families and small teams. Power users might prefer the TERRAMASTER F4-425 for its robust hardware. However, tradeoffs often involve cost, ease of setup, or expandability. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to find the perfect fit for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Performance varies significantly based on CPU and RAM, affecting multitasking and media handling.
- Pre-configured models save setup time but often come at a higher price compared to diskless options.
- Build quality and brand reputation influence long-term reliability and software updates.
- Some NAS units excel in media streaming and surveillance, while others prioritize backups and file sharing.
- Price often correlates with features; the most expensive picks tend to offer the highest performance and expandability.
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Performance and Versatility | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Sequential Read Speed: 522 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users |  | Best for Demanding Workflows and Advanced Users | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, 8 Threads) | RAM: 8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB) | Network Ports: 10GbE + 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless NAS Private Cloud Media Server |  | Best for Media and Business Use with Advanced Features | Number of Bays: 4 | Data Transfer Speed: 278 MB/s | Supported Users: 10+ | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams |  | Best for Large Storage and Multimedia at Home | Digital Storage Capacity: 144 TB | Hard Disk Interface: SATA | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS with Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU and 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best for Power and Budget-Conscious Users | Processor: Intel x86 quad-core | RAM: 4GB | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless NAS for Backup, File Sharing, and Surveillance |  | Best Overall for Security and Versatility | Number of Bays: 4 | Type: Diskless NAS | Features: Private cloud, data backup, video surveillance, ransomware protection | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for Enthusiasts, Home & Office (Diskless) |  | Best for Power Users and Enthusiasts | Processor: Intel N100 | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | Maximum Storage: 144TB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Media and Small Office Backup | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Network: 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay for Creators, Tech Enthusiasts, and Office Teams |  | Best for Demanding Creative and Professional Workloads | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | RAM: 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Attached Storage for Home and Small Business |  | Best for Cost-Effective Home and Small Business Storage | Capacity: 128TB | Number of Bays: 4 | Processor: High-performance | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| nas with 4 bays for home | Processor | RAM | Number of Bays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — | — | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, 8 Threads) | 8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB) | — |
| Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless | — | — | 4 |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS | — | 8GB DDR5 | — |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS w | Intel x86 quad-core | 4GB | 4 |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless | — | — | 4 |
| Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for En | Intel N100 | 8GB DDR4 | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | 1GB DDR4 | 4 |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | — |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | High-performance | — | 4 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ stands out for its high-speed data transfer capabilities, supporting up to 565 MB/s in sequential write speeds, making it ideal for demanding media and backup workflows. Compared with the TERRAMASTER F4-425, it offers more balanced network options with dual 2.5GbE ports, providing both speed and redundancy. Its comprehensive software ecosystem supports virtualization, surveillance, and file management, though being diskless means you’ll need to factor in the cost of drives. For users seeking a reliable, all-in-one solution with robust software features, this model delivers excellent value, but those new to NAS setup might find it complex.
Pros:- Supports high-speed data transfers up to 565 MB/s
- Dual 2.5GbE ports for fast, redundant network connections
- Versatile features including virtualization, surveillance, and file management
Cons:- Requires purchasing hard drives separately, increasing initial cost
- Setup can be complex for less experienced users
- Limited to specific drive compatibility
Best for: Power users, small businesses, or tech-savvy home users needing high-speed data transfer and versatile features
Not ideal for: Beginners or users on tight budgets who want a plug-and-play experience without additional drive costs
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read Speed:522 MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed:565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for users who prioritize speed and features, and are comfortable with a more involved setup process.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro is tailored for IT professionals and power users who need maximum performance and expandability. Equipped with an Intel Core i3 processor and support for virtualization, Docker, and AI workloads, it surpasses most consumer NAS options like the Synology DS425+ in raw power and capacity. Its 144TB storage capability and support for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 provide flexibility for complex environments, but its setup and configuration can be intimidating for less experienced users. While its price is higher, it offers unmatched performance for demanding tasks, making it less suitable for casual home users.
Pros:- Powerful Intel Core i3 processor with 8GB DDR5 RAM, expandable to 96GB
- Supports virtualization, Docker, and AI-powered features
- Massive 144TB capacity with flexible RAID options
Cons:- Requires technical expertise for setup and management
- Higher price point compared to typical home NAS devices
- No integrated Wi-Fi, relies on wired connections
Best for: IT professionals, developers, or advanced users requiring high performance and extensive customization
Not ideal for: Casual users or those unfamiliar with server configurations, due to its complexity and cost
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, 8 Threads)
- RAM:8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB)
- Network Ports:10GbE + 2.5GbE
- Storage Capacity:144TB (4x HDD + 2x M.2 SSD)
- Supported RAID:0, 1, 5, 10
- Operating System:UGOS Pro
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy users who need robust performance and extensive storage, accepting a steeper learning curve and cost.”
Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless NAS Private Cloud Media Server
The Synology DS425+ strikes a balance for small businesses and media enthusiasts, offering data transfer speeds up to 278 MB/s, suitable for streaming and shared access. Its software ecosystem supports user management, RAID, and surveillance, comparable to the DS925+, but with slightly lower network throughput. Being diskless, it requires drive purchases, and its 4-bay limit might restrict very large storage needs. It’s a solid choice for users who want reliable media serving and file sharing without the need for enterprise-level hardware, though beginners might find some features overwhelming.
Pros:- Fast data transfer speeds suitable for media streaming
- Supports multiple users with concurrent access
- Includes comprehensive data protection and surveillance features
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of drives
- Setup of advanced features may be complex for novices
- Limited to 4 bays for large-scale storage
Best for: Small business owners or media-focused users needing fast file sharing and surveillance support
Not ideal for: Users with very high throughput demands or those seeking plug-and-play simplicity
- Number of Bays:4
- Data Transfer Speed:278 MB/s
- Supported Users:10+
- Warranty:3 years
- Surveillance Support:Up to 30 IP cameras
Our verdict“A dependable choice for media and small business environments that need reliable performance and security features.”
UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus offers an impressive 144TB capacity, making it a top choice for multimedia libraries and backups at home or small offices. Its 1250 MB/s transfer speeds and support for Docker and virtual machines make it versatile for creators and small teams, surpassing the Terramaster F4-425 in raw speed and capacity. Its wired-only connectivity may be limiting for some, but its quiet operation and extensive features make it suitable for home environments where large storage and fast access are priorities.
Pros:- Massive 144TB storage capacity for large media libraries
- Fast transfer speeds with 10GbE and USB ports
- Supports Docker, virtual machines, and AI-powered features
Cons:- HDDs must be purchased separately, increasing setup cost
- Wired network reliance limits flexibility
- Potentially overpowered for simple backup needs
Best for: Home users, creators, and small teams needing large storage and multimedia capabilities
Not ideal for: Users seeking Wi-Fi support or those with lower speed requirements, due to reliance on wired networks
- Digital Storage Capacity:144 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:SATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Intel CPU:5-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Ethernet Ports:1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE
Our verdict“Best suited for multimedia-heavy households or creators needing extensive storage and fast data access in a wired setup.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS with Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU and 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 delivers solid performance with its quad-core Intel CPU and 4GB RAM, supporting 4K transcoding and multi-user access. It’s a compelling choice for those who want a capable, affordable NAS for home media or small office tasks. Compared to the Synology DS425+, it offers similar basic features but with a more straightforward, budget-friendly approach. Its 21dB noise level and tool-free HDD tray make it suitable for home use, though its network options are limited to 2.5GbE, which might limit transfer speeds for some users. It’s a reliable, no-frills option for those prioritizing performance without extra complexity.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core Intel processor
- Supports 4K hardware decoding and multi-user access
- Quiet operation with low noise levels
Cons:- HDDs are not included, requiring additional purchase
- Limited to 4 bays, which may not suit very large storage needs
- Network speeds capped at 2.5GbE
Best for: Home users or small offices needing decent performance at a lower price point
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts or demanding workflows requiring higher network speeds or advanced features
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Maximum Storage:120TB
- Network Interface:2.5GbE
- Supported RAID:TRAID / TRAID+
Our verdict“A practical, budget-friendly NAS with decent performance, ideal for users who want straightforward media and backup solutions.”
Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless NAS for Backup, File Sharing, and Surveillance
The Synology DS423 stands out for its comprehensive feature set, combining secure private cloud access, robust data protection with snapshots, and an impressive surveillance system supporting up to 30 cameras. Compared to the UGREEN DH4300 Plus, it offers more advanced backup options and integrated security features, though it requires additional licenses and setup effort. Its diskless design provides flexibility, but the absence of included drives means extra cost upfront. This model is ideal for users prioritizing data security and surveillance integration, willing to handle some technical setup. The main tradeoff is that it doesn’t come with hard drives, and surveillance licensing adds to the expense.Pros:- Supports secure private cloud access from anywhere
- Advanced data protection with snapshots and multi-destination backup
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras for surveillance
Cons:- Camera licenses must be purchased separately
- Requires technical knowledge for surveillance setup
- No included hard drives
Best for: Homeowners and small business users seeking secure, flexible storage with integrated surveillance capabilities
Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer plug-and-play solutions with included drives or minimal setup
- Number of Bays:4
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Features:Private cloud, data backup, video surveillance, ransomware protection
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for security-conscious users who want a flexible, feature-rich system despite the need for additional licensing and setup.”
Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for Enthusiasts, Home & Office (Diskless)
The Yxk Zero1 Pro offers high-performance features like an Intel N100 processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, and support for up to 144TB of storage, making it ideal for demanding home and enthusiast users. Unlike the Synology DS423, it supports extensive customization with full Docker support and third-party OS options, appealing to tech-savvy users. Its dual 2.5GbE ports enable seamless high-speed networking, but the lack of included drives and the need for manual OS setup may be a barrier for less experienced users. This model fits those who want a powerful, customizable NAS capable of handling media editing, virtualization, and large storage needs at once.Pros:- Supports up to 144TB of storage with flexible drive options
- Supports Docker and third-party OS for customization
- Dual 2.5GbE ports for fast, redundant network connectivity
Cons:- Drives are sold separately, increasing initial cost
- Manual setup required for third-party OS installation
- No included drives for immediate use
Best for: Tech-savvy home users and small office teams needing high performance and extensive customization
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a simple, out-of-the-box solution
- Processor:Intel N100
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Maximum Storage:144TB
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
Our verdict“Best suited for power users who want maximum control and performance, accepting a steeper setup process.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor AS1204T offers a reliable balance of media streaming and data protection with a 1.7GHz quad-core processor and 2.5GbE connectivity. Compared to the Synology DS423, it provides a more straightforward setup for basic backups and media streaming, making it suitable for casual users and small offices. Its 1GB RAM limits multitasking, which can hinder performance under heavy loads, and it requires separate drives to be purchased. This NAS excels for users who need a dependable, simple storage solution without advanced surveillance or virtualization features.Pros:- High-speed 2.5GbE network for faster data transfer
- Supports multiple RAID configurations for redundancy
- Reliable media streaming and personal cloud access
Cons:- Limited RAM for multitasking
- Requires separate purchase of drives
- Basic feature set for advanced needs
Best for: Home users and small offices needing reliable media streaming and backup without complex features
Not ideal for: Power users or those wanting advanced virtualization or surveillance
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Network:2.5GbE
- Number of Bays:4
Our verdict“A straightforward, reliable choice for users prioritizing media and backup needs with ease of use.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay for Creators, Tech Enthusiasts, and Office Teams
The UGREEN DXP4800 GT is a powerhouse with an AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, supporting heavy workloads like media editing, virtualization, and backups. Its expandable storage and dual 10GbE ports offer unmatched speed and flexibility, unlike the other models, which are more suited for basic storage or media. However, the drives are not included, and its complex setup can be intimidating for less experienced users. This NAS makes the most sense for professionals and creators needing high performance and extensive connectivity, accepting the higher cost and setup complexity.Pros:- Supports up to 144TB with multiple SSD and drive options
- Dual 10GbE ports for fast, redundant networking
- Excellent hardware for demanding workloads and media editing
Cons:- Drives must be purchased separately, increasing cost
- Complex setup process for advanced features
- ECC RAM support not included; upgrades require compatible modules
Best for: Creative professionals and office teams requiring high-throughput, expandable storage, and advanced features
Not ideal for: Home users seeking simple backup or media streaming solutions
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB
- Network:Dual 10GbE
Our verdict“Ideal for demanding users who need top-tier performance and expandability, despite setup challenges.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Attached Storage for Home and Small Business
The UGREEN DH4300 Plus offers a budget-friendly solution with solid performance for home media and small business backup. It supports up to 128TB of storage, AI-powered photo organization, and easy setup, making it accessible for users not wanting to invest in high-end features. Unlike the Synology DS423, it lacks surveillance integration and virtual machine support, but its cost-effective approach makes it appealing for those mainly interested in private storage and media sharing. It’s a good choice for users who need reliable storage without extras, provided they purchase drives separately.Pros:- Supports automatic photo backup and AI album organization
- High performance with fast file transfer and 4K HDMI output
- Cost-effective alternative to cloud storage
Cons:- Does not support Wi-Fi connectivity
- Drives must be purchased separately
- No support for virtual machines
Best for: Home users and small businesses seeking affordable, private storage with smart features
Not ideal for: Power users needing surveillance or virtualization support
- Capacity:128TB
- Number of Bays:4
- Processor:High-performance
- Network Port:2.5GbE
Our verdict“A smart, economical storage solution for users prioritizing private media storage and backups over advanced features.”
How We Picked
These NAS options were evaluated based on key factors such as hardware performance, ease of use, build quality, expandability, and value for home users. We prioritized models with reliable software ecosystems, good user interfaces, and flexible storage configurations. Our ranking reflects a balance between budget-friendliness and premium features, ensuring there’s a suitable choice for different types of home users—ranging from beginners to power users. We also considered reviews from technology experts and real-world usage patterns to highlight the most well-rounded options in this category.| nas with 4 bays for home | Processor |
|---|---|
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, 8 Threads) |
| Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless | — |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS | — |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS w | Intel x86 quad-core |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless | — |
| Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for En | Intel N100 |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | High-performance |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Nas With 4 Bays For Home
Choosing the right NAS with 4 bays for home involves understanding your specific needs and weighing several important factors. Beyond raw hardware specs, consider how easy the device is to set up and manage, the quality of its software ecosystem, and its expandability. Making an informed decision requires balancing performance, budget, and future-proofing to ensure your NAS can grow with your needs.Performance and Hardware
The CPU, RAM, and network interface determine how well a NAS handles multiple tasks, such as media streaming, backups, and surveillance. For home use, a quad-core processor and at least 4GB of RAM generally provide smooth performance, but power users may want more. Be cautious of models with underpowered hardware, as they can bottleneck your data transfer speeds and multitasking ability.
Ease of Use and Software Ecosystem
A user-friendly interface and reliable software are essential for a smooth experience. Brands like Synology and Asustor are known for their intuitive interfaces and robust app ecosystems, making setup and ongoing management simpler. Less established brands or barebone models often require more technical know-how, which could be a hurdle for beginners.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
Consider whether the NAS allows for RAM upgrades or additional network interfaces, especially if you anticipate increased storage or data demands. Some models also support expanding storage via external drives or network connections. Skipping these options can limit your device’s lifespan and usefulness as your household’s data needs grow.
Build Quality and Reliability
Durable construction and a reputable brand can significantly impact longevity. A well-made NAS with quality components and good warranty support reduces the risk of hardware failure. Cheaper or lesser-known brands might save money upfront but could lead to more issues over time, especially without timely firmware updates.
Price and Value
While budget models are tempting, they often lack advanced features or performance for demanding tasks. Conversely, premium options come with higher costs but offer better hardware and software features. Striking a balance based on your needs and budget helps avoid overspending on unnecessary features or settling for underpowered hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a diskless NAS worth it for home use?
Choosing a diskless NAS provides flexibility to select your own drives, which can be more cost-effective and customizable. It’s ideal if you already own drives or want to upgrade incrementally. However, it also requires some technical knowledge to set up and configure drives properly, and you should consider the added time and effort involved in assembling the system yourself.
How much RAM do I need in a home NAS?
For most home users, 4GB to 8GB of RAM is sufficient for general file sharing, backups, and media streaming. Power users running multiple surveillance streams or heavy multimedia editing may benefit from 16GB or more. Keep in mind that some models have fixed RAM, which limits future upgrades, so choose accordingly if future expandability matters to you.
Can I expand storage easily later on?
Many NAS units support external drives or expansion units, but the ease of expansion varies. It’s best to check if the model supports adding drives via eSATA or USB ports, or if it allows replacing drives with larger ones. Planning ahead for your storage needs can prevent costly replacements or the need to migrate to a new device later.
Are higher-priced NAS units worth the investment?
Premium NAS models often offer faster processors, more RAM, and better software features, which improve performance and reliability. If you plan to use your NAS for intensive tasks like 4K media streaming or surveillance, investing in a higher-end model makes sense. For basic backups and media serving, a mid-range device usually offers enough power at a more attractive price.
Is a 4-bay NAS suitable for small home offices?
Yes, a 4-bay NAS provides ample storage and flexibility for small home offices, supporting file sharing, backups, and even small-scale media hosting. Its multiple bays allow for RAID configurations that improve data redundancy. However, if your storage needs are expected to grow rapidly or require high-speed access, consider models with higher hardware specs or expansion options.
Conclusion
For most home users, the Synology DS925+ remains the best overall choice thanks to its balanced performance, ease of use, and reliable software. Those prioritizing budget and flexibility should consider the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus for excellent value. Power users or households with demanding media needs might prefer the TERRAMASTER F4-425 for its hardware robustness. Beginners or less technical users will find models like the Synology DS423 a friendly introduction, while those with specific needs, such as surveillance or creative workflows, should look for units tailored to those tasks. Your ideal pick depends on your current and future storage demands, technical comfort, and budget.
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