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

If you’re the proud owner of one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, you might be looking for a reliable solution to back up or transfer your valuable data. While you may have a top SSD or large external hard drives, nothing quite matches the versatility and convenience of a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) drive. Our top recommendation is the Synology DiskStation DS224+, a powerhouse in NAS solutions.

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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See it at ioSafe

The best NAS drives offer substantial storage capacity and integrate seamlessly into your home network, allowing quick data transfers to and from all your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, a NAS enables simultaneous connections and easy synchronization, making it perfect for managing digital media libraries. While NAS solutions can be pricey, we've selected eight outstanding 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 a 2GB 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 an excellent choice. It offers a user-friendly experience with robust capabilities. With two drive bays, you can expand your storage up to 32TB or configure RAID 1 for data redundancy. The two Gigabit LAN ports support Link Aggregation or network failover, although we wish it included a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN port for even faster connections.

Synology's versatile apps and software run on an intuitive interface, allowing you to use it for storing security camera footage, as a Plex server, or for safekeeping files and photos. The powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM (upgradable) ensure it can handle tasks like 4K media transcoding, file management, and smooth video streaming.

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 solid construction, an attractive design, and 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 with smooth hardware transcoding.

UGREEN provides a comprehensive OS for easy setup and network configuration, along with security features like two-factor authentication. Backing up files and creating a personal cloud server for remote access is straightforward. Although Plex isn't pre-installed, it can be easily added using Docker with similar performance.

For storage, the dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, offering ample space or the option for RAID redundancy. UGREEN's toolless system simplifies drive installation, and two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB. The 2.5Gb ethernet ensures fast file transfers, with additional connectivity options like HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A.

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 an affordable option perfect for NAS beginners and those with simpler storage needs. It features Synology's renowned DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, which offers comprehensive applications for seamless file storage and access across devices.

While the build quality is modest, mainly plastic, and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, it's reliable and user-friendly. It supports up to 32TB without M.2 slots for caching or storage, and lacks a multi-gig ethernet port. However, its simplicity, reliability, and affordability make it an excellent choice for basic needs.

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 ideal for power users and professionals who demand versatility and performance. It features an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, upgradeable to 8GB. The two drive bays support 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, suitable for large 18TB hard drives or fast SSDs. Additionally, two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots offer even faster storage options.

The dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports support link aggregation for up to 5Gb connectivity, making it perfect for speedy backups, virtualization, or a robust media center. It also features an HDMI 2.0 port and supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding, delivering a 4K HDR experience.

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

For those with vast amounts of files and data, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ offers an expansive solution. Priced over $1,000, it's a future-proof investment with eight drive bays supporting up to 128TB and hot-swappable drives. It also supports expansion units, increasing capacity to 18 bays, and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots for high-speed caching.

Powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory (expandable to 32GB), it's a powerhouse for extensive storage needs.

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.
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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 specifically for media streaming, offering dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports to handle high-throughput demands. Its 4K HDMI output allows for direct connection to your TV, making it ideal for a central media library.

It features two 3.5-inch drive bays for substantial storage, with two additional PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or network speed enhancements. An Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory ensure 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 perfect for those prioritizing data security through RAID configurations. With four drive bays, you can maximize storage and ensure redundancy with multiple RAID options including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, SHR, Basic, and JBOD.

The four bays support 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, with two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. It features two 1Gb ethernet ports with Link Aggregation or Failover support, and an option to add 10Gb connectivity. The dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, along with the user-friendly DSM operating system, make it easy to set up and operate.

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.
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

The ioSafe Duo Pro isn't a traditional NAS but offers unparalleled physical protection for your data. It's fireproof and water-resistant, with an IP68 rating that protects against submersion in water up to 10 feet for 72 hours.

It also supports various RAID configurations for data protection and features robust, long-lasting drive bays. ioSafe provides data recovery services, but note that this device isn't specifically designed as a NAS. To use it for network storage, you'll need to share it through an always-on computer or connect it directly to your router via USB.

What to Look for in NAS

NAS devices are not for everyone, but they can solve specific networking challenges. If your household shares the same network, a NAS allows you to share files from a central unit. If you want to back up multiple family computers without individual setups, a NAS can streamline the process.

What are you using it for?

If you need to access the same tools or files across multiple devices, a NAS can be a game-changer. It's not just about storage but also about accessibility. If you have a large media library you want to access from various devices, consider turning your NAS into a Plex server for seamless media sharing.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices come without disk drives, requiring you to purchase them separately. Manufacturers often don't produce hard drives, so they sell their devices without disks. If you already own drives, a diskless system might be less of an issue, but always check manufacturer recommendations for compatible drives.

Bays house the disk drives, and more bays mean greater potential capacity. For most uses, two or more bays are recommended, with multimedia systems typically requiring more.