The Top NAS (Network Attached Storage) Solutions in 2023
Effortlessly access your files from anywhere with the top NAS devices of 2023 Discover the best options for home, business, media streaming, and Mac users Find out if you need a NAS, how it compares to cloud storage, and its benefits for Plex
We have revised our suggestions and made changes to the top NAS options for businesses.
NAS devices, also known as network-attached storage devices, offer the convenience of securely backing up and accessing all your files from anywhere in the world. By connecting the appropriate NAS device to your router, you can enjoy centralized backup functionality and even transform it into a home streaming server.
UPDATE: 10/24/2023
We've reviewed our recommendations and have updated the best NAS for businesses.
Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS220+
Best NAS Overall $248 at Amazon
Synology DS120j 1 Bay NAS DiskStation
Best Budget NAS $113 at Amazon
WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra
Best Home NAS $306 at Amazon
Synology DiskStation DS1522+
Best NAS for Business $587 at Amazon
Asustor AS5202T
Best NAS for Plex and Media Streaming $299 at Amazon
See More
WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS
Best NAS for Mac $306 at Amazon
What to Look for in a NAS in 2023
While all NAS devices serve the basic purpose of connecting storage to your network, they differ significantly in other aspects. NAS hard drives are essentially specialized computers and, like any computer, they come in various types. Before making a purchase, there are several key factors that you should consider, which can be broadly categorized.
The initial decision you must make is the number of drive bays. For users seeking to stream media, perform basic backups, or require fast local shared storage, a single-bay NAS (or even a simple external hard drive) would suffice. However, it is important to note that if a single-bay NAS fails, all data will be lost.
A two-bay model ensures data integrity by providing disk mirroring, making it the preferred option. The decision to go beyond two drive bays depends on your requirements for maximum capacity, speed, and redundancy.
When selecting a product, it is crucial to consider the performance specifications of NAS devices as you would for personal computers. NAS devices have components such as CPU, RAM, specific Ethernet port speeds, and maximum supported drive specifications that you should be aware of. For instance, if you require a NAS for transcoding 4K videos or editing video files directly over the network, it must have sufficient hardware capabilities to handle these tasks.
Consider upgradability as an important factor. If your needs will increase in the future, opting for an expandable NAS is a wise choice. While RAM is a commonly upgradeable component, certain NAS devices also support the installation of an SSD as a high-speed cache, significantly enhancing data transfer performance.
Additionally, application support is crucial. NAS devices typically use different operating systems than regular computers. Some operating systems offer customization options, while others may only provide a standard Linux installation. The availability of support for specific applications like web servers or media streaming software can vary greatly, so ensure that the NAS device you choose is compatible with the specific applications you require.
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Our product recommendations at How-To Geek are provided by our team of experts, who have assisted individuals in repairing their devices over a billion times. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our extensive knowledge. We strictly do not accept any form of payment in exchange for endorsing or evaluating a product. Learn more about our process »
Best NAS Overall: Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS220+ (Diskless)
Synology
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ The best jack-of-all-trades NAS with a fair price | ✗ A bit too expensive for casual buyers |
✓ Offers RAID 1 disk mirroring for the basic redundancy most people require | |
✓ Dual Gigabit LAN with either failover or link aggregation | |
✓ Surprisingly powerful CPU and upgradable RAM | |
✓ Fast read and write speeds | |
✓ Competent basic Plex solution |
The DS220+ boasts numerous features that make it an excellent choice. Its sleek design is versatile, making it suitable for both home and business environments. While it may not be a budget-friendly option, its price remains reasonable. Furthermore, it offers a crucial level of data protection with RAID 1 support, thanks to its two drive bays.
The dual gigabit Ethernet ports provide the flexibility to either combine them for optimal performance or configure a failover setup to ensure continuous data access. The CPU boasts high speed capabilities to cater to most user requirements, and the RAM allocation can easily be upgraded if necessary. Synology, a prominent name in the NAS market, offers an extensive selection of nearly 100 applications for the DS220+.
Critiquing the DS220+ becomes challenging as it consistently offers excellent value for money, regardless of how you evaluate it. It is unlikely that users with a budget within this range would be dissatisfied with this NAS. However, if you still have doubts, reading Review Geek's article on the DS220+ is certain to persuasively sway your decision.
Then again, if you're not a fan of the Synology software platform and ecosystem, then the DS220+ isn't going to change your mind on that front. However, when it comes to choosing a NAS, we would highly recommend the Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS220+ as it is the ultimate destination on the path to NAS nirvana.
Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS220+
Get the ultimate NAS for only $248, saving a remarkable $52! Synology's DS220+ stands out as a top-notch NAS device, catering to a wide range of requirements. Whether you need it for data archiving or to use alongside Plex, this affordable option ticks all the boxes.
Shop now at B&H Photo Video, Adorama, or grab yours for just $248 on Amazon.
Best Budget NAS: Synology DS120j 1 Bay NAS DiskStation
Synology
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Extremely cheap, especially if you use it with a drive you already have | ✗ Having just one drive removes any redundancy |
✓ Read/Write speeds are actually pretty good for the price | ✗ CPU and RAM aren't up to media transcoding or any heavy lifting |
✓ A feature-complete NAS for very little money | ✗ Risky as your only backup solution |
At what point does the term "budget" transition into "cheap"? There are opposing views on whether a NAS with just one drive bay negates the purpose of owning such a device. Nevertheless, there are individuals who do not prioritize speed or enhanced dependability when seeking a NAS.
Looking for a cost-effective and uncomplicated solution to incorporate local file storage into your network? Look no further than the Synology DS120j. It may be considered modest, but for its price tag, it boasts an unexpectedly impressive range of features.
Despite having just one drive bay, the DS120j can accommodate a sizable 16TB drive, which should suffice for most users' storage needs. Its single Gigabit Ethernet port ensures a balanced drive performance with an encrypted read speed of 112MB/s.
Despite its 800Mhz dual-core CPU, the DS120j is equipped with a dedicated hardware encryption engine, ensuring that CPU performance remains unaffected. However, due to its limitations, the DS120j may not be suitable for heavy media transcoding tasks, especially if you plan on using it for a NAS setup with Plex.
On a positive note, the DS120j offers the same versatile Synology software as our top pick and users have reported no difficulties in setting up and utilizing this NAS. This is particularly encouraging considering that the DS120j is a true network-attached storage device, designed for software flexibility and complexity. If your primary requirement is flexible, shared local network storage, the DS120j is a budget-friendly option that will get the job done.
The Synology DS120j 1 Bay NAS DiskStation is the perfect budget NAS solution. With a price tag of just $100, it may seem too good to be true, but rest assured, this NAS is a reliable and capable option. As long as you don't require media transcoding, the DS120j will meet all your needs.
Adorama $113 at Amazon
Best Home NAS: WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra
Western Digital
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Plug-and-play solution with included storage out of the box | ✗ Limited app availability |
✓ Decent CPU and RAM combo at this price | ✗ Some user reviews cite reliability issues and trouble accessing the NAS over the internet |
✓ Supports Plex Media Server and comes with 3-month trial | |
✓ Suitable for non-technical users | |
✓ Mac Time Machine compatible |
Although purchasing and installing drives into a NAS device is no problem for the average computer geek, many home users seeking network storage solutions often lack the expertise or time to create a customized unit. The WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra offers a convenient solution for these individuals, allowing them to get started quickly.
Here, we have provided a link to the 4TB model. However, you have the option to purchase NAS variants with storage space ranging from 4TB to 28TB, ensuring that you can obtain the capacity you require. Additionally, there is a diskless model available for those who already possess the necessary drives.
The Cloud EX2 Ultra is the ideal home NAS candidate, with its user-friendly software. Users rave about the easy configuration, and it is even compatible with Mac Time Machine. However, this simplicity does come at a price.
Unlike NAS devices from other companies, such as Synology, which provide a wide range of applications and extensive control over the device, Western Digital takes a different approach. They offer basic functions, a limited selection of optional apps, and a more guided experience. While power users may view this as a drawback, home users who simply want to get the job done without needing advanced network knowledge will appreciate this user-friendly design.
The Western Digital EX2 has been designed with a strong emphasis on media streaming performance, boasting fast hardware. Additionally, purchasers will receive a three-month Plex trial as part of their package, making the EX2 an excellent choice for home users in need of a reliable Plex solution.
WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra
Best Home NAS$306 $350 Save $44 WD's My Cloud NAS is perfect for many home setups. This one includes storage right out of the box and is compatible with Plex servers.
$306 at Amazon Lenovo Adorama
Best NAS for Business: Synology 5-Bay DiskStation DS1522+
The Synology 5-Bay DiskStation on a wooden table.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Five-bay system allows for growth | ✗ Expensive |
✓ Three-year warranty | ✗ Might be excessive for some small businesses |
✓ Fast sequential read and write speeds | |
✓ Built-in file and photo management software |
The Synology 5-Bay DiskStation DS1522+ is the ideal solution for small businesses seeking a dependable, high-performance system with ample room for growth. This versatile device is not only quick and efficient but also offers seamless installation and management, making it an excellent choice for the corporate environment.
Capable of achieving sequential read speeds of up to 736 MB/s and write speeds of up to 796 MB/s, this product excels at facilitating rapid file transfers for your team. Additionally, it boasts an integrated file and photo management system, ensuring efficient organization of all your data. Combine this with a generous three-year warranty, four 1GbE ports for seamless integration into your current setups, and the ability to expand with up to 10 extra drive bays, and you have a product that delivers exceptional performance without sacrificing on any key features.
However, if you're just starting your business, it may be more suitable to consider other products from this list. The high price and five-bay capacity can be excessive for small businesses with minimal data usage. Nevertheless, if your team consistently handles large data volumes and you desire scalability, the Synology 5-bay DiskStation remains unmatched.
Synology DiskStation DS1522+
The Synology 5-Bay DiskStation DS1522+ is the ultimate NAS for business, offering impressive storage capabilities. With a price of $587, you can save $113 on this powerful companion for growing businesses. Available at adorama and Amazon.
Best NAS for Plex and Media Streaming: Asustor AS5202T
Asustor
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Listed in the Plex database for up to 4K hardware transcoding | ✗ Requires a paid Plex Pass to get the most from the hardware |
✓ Good specifications to handle media encoding | ✗ Gamer aesthetic and features may not appeal to some |
✓ RAM is expandable if needed down the line | |
✓ 2 x 2.5 Gigabit ethernet | |
✓ Direct HDMI Port for a local TV |
One of the primary motivations for acquiring a NAS is the ability to stream media within the confines of one's home. The growing popularity of Plex serves as a catalyst for considering these network-attached storage devices. Many individuals commence their journey by setting up a Plex server on their personal computer or utilizing an unused machine. However, as their media collection expands and transcoding requirements increase, relying on an outdated computer becomes insufficient.
Plex is compatible with a wide range of NAS devices that can run its app. However, many of these devices only support software transcoding, which means the quality of playback depends on the available CPU resources. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a NAS that provides dedicated hardware encoding and is certified compatible with Plex.
If you're searching for a suitable NAS, the first place to look is Plex's official NAS compatibility list. Here, you will come across the Asustor AS5202T, which is one of the few NAS devices in its price range to offer hardware-accelerated transcoding for 4K content. Do note that it is limited to SDR and H.264 output at this resolution.
In addition, to utilize hardware acceleration support, a Plex Pass subscription is required. If you prefer software encoding only, you will need to purchase a NAS with a more powerful CPU. However, if you're specifically buying a NAS for Plex, it's reasonable to assume that you also desire Plex's premium features, making this NAS a perfect choice.
For those seeking to enjoy high-quality 4K HDR content, the AS5202T offers an HDMI output for directly connecting to a display. With this feature, you can enjoy your main television without worrying about wi-fi performance. This NAS is truly designed for optimal media consumption.
The Asustor AS5202T is the ultimate NAS solution for Plex and media streaming enthusiasts. Its affordable price point makes it the best choice when it comes to 4K transcoding.
$299 at Amazon
Best NAS for Mac: WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS
Western Digital
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ WD My Cloud is easy to use | ✗ Slower transfer speeds |
✓ Time Machine Support | ✗ No third party app |
✓ Dual drive functionality | |
✓ Lag-free streaming |
The WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS stands out by offering network storage for Mac users, unlike many other hardware options that are primarily designed for Windows. However, being Mac-compatible is already a common feature among most NAS devices. The true advantage of the WD 4TB EX2 Ultra lies in its optimization for the specific needs and preferences of Mac users. It excels in providing a fast and intuitive network storage experience for Mac users.
The lightweight unit offers 4TB of centralized storage for essential files needed by all users on the network. WD has chosen a convenient pre-configured dual-bay setup with two 2TB drives that can be easily accessed and customized to meet your requirements. Additionally, the NAS is available in various options: 8TB, 12TB, 16TB, 28TB, 32TB, 36TB, and diskless.
Despite having two drives to manage, handling backup folders and managing each drive is remarkably user-friendly with the assistance of software like the WD My Cloud mobile and desktop apps. These apps are available for both Mac and Windows computers, although the Mac version tends to perform better.
Although the NAS device is effective in establishing a practical and easily accessible network, there is room for improvement when it comes to write speeds. The inclusion of a 1.3GHz dual-core Marvell Armada A9 processor and 1GB DDR3 RAM guarantees an optimal speed for smooth and uninterrupted streaming. However, file transfer speeds may not reach impressive levels. The EX2 Ultra features 2 USB 3.0 ports and a Gigabit Ethernet port, along with a drive bay door release button located on the top.
Experience smooth streaming and effortless cloud navigation with the WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS. Designed specifically for Mac users, this NAS provides all the essential features for efficient network area storage. Don't miss out on this deal, priced at $306 instead of $350, allowing you to save $44.
$306 at Amazon Lenovo Adorama
FAQ
What does NAS stand for?
NAS stands for network-attached storage and is used to describe data that can be accessed remotely by multiple users on the network.
Do I need a NAS at home?
Not necessarily. But if you have multiple people in the home that need to access the same files, it might be worth considering.
Is a NAS better than cloud storage?
Although cloud storage and NAS drives both offer similar advantages, there is a notable price difference between the two. Generally, NAS drives tend to be less expensive compared to cloud storage. However, it is important to consider the storage location. NAS drives store data locally, while cloud storage stores files remotely. It is advisable to select the option that aligns best with your specific requirements.
Should I need a NAS for Plex?
No, but most people recommend using NAS for Plex because it's much more efficient and user-friendly.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate technology enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the latest and greatest NAS (Network Attached Storage) solutions. NAS devices have become increasingly popular in recent years as they offer a convenient and secure way to store and access files from anywhere in the world. In this article, I will share my thoughts on the top NAS solutions for 2023, including options for home, business, media streaming, and Mac users.
First and foremost, I believe that the Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS220+ is the best NAS overall. It offers a great combination of features, performance, and price. It's easy to set up and use, and it comes with a wide range of features, including support for RAID 1, 5, and 6, as well as the ability to transcode 4K video.
For those on a budget, the Synology DS120j 1 Bay NAS DiskStation is a great option. It's a single-bay NAS that's perfect for basic backups or media streaming. It's also very affordable, making it a great choice for those who are just getting started with NAS.
For home users, the WD 4TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra is a great option. It's a two-bay NAS that offers excellent performance and features, including support for RAID 1 and 5, as well as the ability to transcode 4K video. It's also very easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for those who are new to NAS.
For businesses, the Synology DiskStation DS1522+ is a great option. It's a four-bay NAS that offers excellent performance and features, including support for RAID 1, 5, 6, and 10, as well as the ability to transcode 4K video. It's also very scalable, so it can be expanded as your business grows.
Finally, for Plex and media streaming, the Asustor AS5202T is a great option. It's a two-bay NAS that offers excellent performance and features, including support for RAID 1 and 5, as well as the ability to transcode 4K video. It's also very easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for those who are new to NAS.
Overall, I believe that these are the top NAS solutions for 2023. They offer a great combination of features, performance, and price, and they are sure to meet the needs of a wide range of users.
