If you’re searching for the best 4-bay network attached storage options for 2026, I’ve found some fantastic choices. The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus offers impressive speed, while the TERRAMASTER F4-425 is perfect for transcoding. Synology’s DS925+ boasts great data protection, and BUFFALO’s TeraStation Essentials provides ample storage. Each model shines in performance and security. Stick around, and you’ll discover even more insights to help you decide which NAS is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Top Performance Models: The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus and Synology DiskStation DS925+ offer powerful processors and fast connectivity for efficient data management.
- Data Protection Features: Options like the BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials and TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus include RAID configurations and encryption for enhanced data security.
- User-Friendly Setup: Many models, such as the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 and TERRAMASTER F4-425, provide tool-free installation for easy setup.
- Versatile Connectivity: Devices like the Synology DS925+ and QNAP TS-433 support multiple network ports, ensuring high-speed connectivity for various applications.
- Comprehensive Backup Solutions: Several models, including the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus and Synology DS423, feature automatic backup options and cloud sync capabilities for data safety.
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Network Storage |  | Best Performance | Type: 4-Bay Desktop NAS | Capacity: Up to 136TB | Network Speed: 10GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage (Diskless) |  | Best Multimedia Capabilities | Type: 4-Bay NAS Storage | Capacity: Up to 120TB | Network Speed: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Fastest Throughput | Type: 4-Bay DiskStation | Capacity: Compatible with various drives | Network Speed: Dual 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) |  | Best for Surveillance | Type: 4-Bay DiskStation | Capacity: Compatible with various drives | Network Speed: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 16TB Desktop NAS |  | Best Value | Type: 4-Bay Desktop NAS | Capacity: 16TB (4x4TB) | Network Speed: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (AS3304T v2) |  | Best for Home Media | Type: 4-Bay NAS | Capacity: Diskless (depends on drives) | Network Speed: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS Storage (Diskless) |  | Professional Grade | Type: 4-Bay NAS Storage | Capacity: Up to 144TB | Network Speed: Dual 5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-433 4-Bay NAS with Quad-core Processor |  | Best for Families | Type: 4-Bay NAS | Capacity: Diskless (depends on drives) | Network Speed: 2.5GbE and 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Remote Access |  | Best for AI Features | Type: 4-Bay Desktop NAS | Capacity: Up to 120TB | Network Speed: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Network Storage
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Network Storage is a standout choice for small offices needing robust performance and seamless collaboration. With an Intel Pentium Gold 8505 processor and 8GB of DDR5 RAM, it handles multiple tasks effortlessly. I love the 10GbE connectivity, allowing me to back up 1GB in under a second! Its centralized storage supports automatic backups and various RAID options, ensuring my data’s safety. Plus, the AI-powered photo album feature organizes my images beautifully. With easy cross-device compatibility, setting it up was a breeze. If you’re after high performance and security, this NAS is definitely worth considering!
- Type:4-Bay Desktop NAS
- Capacity:Up to 136TB
- Network Speed:10GbE
- Security Features:Advanced encryption
- User Management:Flexible permission management
- Warranty:2-year warranty
- Additional Feature:AI-powered photo album
- Additional Feature:Super-fast data transfers
- Additional Feature:Supports Docker and VMs
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage (Diskless)
Looking for a powerful yet versatile NAS solution? The TERRAMASTER F4-425 is an excellent choice. With its Intel x86 quad-core CPU and 4GB of RAM, it handles 4K transcoding effortlessly. I love the 2.5GbE LAN for ultra-fast file transfers, making multimedia streaming a breeze. Plus, it supports Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin, perfect for organizing my media. The tool-free design allows for quick HDD installations, and the ultra-quiet operation at 21dB makes it ideal for any quiet space. With support for up to 120TB and user management for over 50 accounts, it truly meets my storage needs.
- Type:4-Bay NAS Storage
- Capacity:Up to 120TB
- Network Speed:2.5GbE
- Security Features:Data protection with TRAID
- User Management:50+ independent user accounts
- Warranty:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Hardware-level 4K decoding
- Additional Feature:Tool-free HDD installation
- Additional Feature:Supports 50+ user accounts
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
For those seeking a powerful yet versatile NAS solution, the Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) stands out with its impressive performance capabilities. With sequential read and write speeds reaching up to 522/565 MB/s, it’s perfect for heavy data tasks. The dual 2.5GbE ports not only enhance network performance but also provide improved redundancy. I appreciate its built-in file and photo management tools, along with robust data protection and virtualization features. Plus, the three-year limited warranty offers peace of mind. If you’re looking for reliability and speed, the DS925+ is definitely worth considering.
- Type:4-Bay DiskStation
- Capacity:Compatible with various drives
- Network Speed:Dual 2.5GbE
- Security Features:Data protection solutions
- User Management:Built-in file management
- Warranty:3-year limited warranty
- Additional Feature:High sequential throughput
- Additional Feature:Virtualization capabilities
- Additional Feature:Built-in surveillance solutions
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless)
When it comes to robust data protection and seamless collaboration, the Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) stands out as an excellent choice for both home users and small businesses. With its secure private cloud, I can easily access and share files from anywhere, making collaboration effortless. The thorough data protection features, including multi-destination backups and a snapshot function, guarantee my data stays safe from threats like malware. Plus, it offers versatile video surveillance capabilities, supporting up to 30 IP cameras. If I need help, the Synology knowledge center and YouTube channel provide great resources for setup and support.
- Type:4-Bay DiskStation
- Capacity:Compatible with various drives
- Network Speed:Not specified
- Security Features:Comprehensive data protection
- User Management:Collaboration features
- Warranty:2-year warranty
- Additional Feature:Comprehensive data protection
- Additional Feature:Snapshot feature for backups
- Additional Feature:Video surveillance support
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 16TB Desktop NAS
The BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 16TB Desktop NAS stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices that need reliable storage and backup solutions. With 16TB capacity and included 4x4TB hard drives, it’s ready to go right out of the box. The 2.5GbE port guarantees speedy file transfers, while features like 256-bit encryption and flexible RAID options enhance data protection. It syncs easily with cloud services like Amazon S3 and Dropbox, making hybrid solutions a breeze. Plus, the 3-year warranty and 24/7 support offer peace of mind. This NAS truly combines convenience and security for your data needs.
- Type:4-Bay Desktop NAS
- Capacity:16TB (4x4TB)
- Network Speed:2.5GbE
- Security Features:256-bit drive encryption
- User Management:Easy setup with RAID pre-configured
- Warranty:3-year warranty
- Additional Feature:Pre-configured RAID setup
- Additional Feature:Cloud sync compatibility
- Additional Feature:256-bit drive encryption
Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (AS3304T v2)
Looking for a reliable 4-bay NAS that excels in media applications? The Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 (AS3304T v2) might be just what you need. With its 1.7GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, it handles 4K video transcoding smoothly, making it ideal for a home media server. Plus, the 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet guarantees fast network connectivity. I appreciate the tool-free installation, which simplifies the setup process. It also features Btrfs/iSCSI snapshots for data protection and supports Wake on LAN and WAN, adding convenience. Overall, this NAS offers solid performance for any media enthusiast.
- Type:4-Bay NAS
- Capacity:Diskless (depends on drives)
- Network Speed:2.5GbE
- Security Features:Btrfs/iSCSI Snapshots
- User Management:Tool-free installation
- Warranty:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Supports Wake on LAN
- Additional Feature:Btrfs/iSCSI snapshots
- Additional Feature:Smooth 4K video transcoding
TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS Storage (Diskless)
For video editors and creative teams seeking high-performance storage, the TERRAMASTER F4-425 Plus NAS Storage stands out with its powerful Intel N150 Quad-Core CPU and robust 16GB DDR5 RAM. With dual 5GbE LAN ports, it achieves impressive read/write speeds of up to 1020 MB/s. You can expand storage up to 144TB using four HDDs and three M.2 SSDs, ensuring flexibility for your growing needs. Plus, its TRAID technology provides excellent data protection. The durable aluminum chassis and hot-plugging feature make it user-friendly, perfect for everything from Docker applications to 4K transcoding. This NAS really delivers on performance and reliability.
- Type:4-Bay NAS Storage
- Capacity:Up to 144TB
- Network Speed:Dual 5GbE
- Security Features:Advanced security features
- User Management:Supports multiple applications
- Warranty:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Triple M.2 SSD slots
- Additional Feature:Direct Data Drive Mounting
- Additional Feature:Advanced security features
QNAP TS-433 4-Bay NAS with Quad-core Processor
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly solution for home file storage and multimedia streaming, the QNAP TS-433 4-Bay NAS with its powerful ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core processor stands out. With 4 GB of DDR4 RAM, it handles multiple tasks efficiently. The dual network ports, including a 2.5GbE option, guarantee speedy connectivity for all your devices. It’s perfect for centralizing family photos, music, and videos while providing reliable backup solutions for both Windows and Mac users. Plus, with MyQNAPCloud, you can securely access your files from anywhere. This NAS is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their digital storage experience.
- Type:4-Bay NAS
- Capacity:Diskless (depends on drives)
- Network Speed:2.5GbE and 1GbE
- Security Features:Secure file access
- User Management:Backup solutions for Windows and Mac
- Warranty:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Future-proof high-speed connectivity
- Additional Feature:Multimedia streaming capabilities
- Additional Feature:MyQNAPCloud remote access
UGREEN 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Remote Access
The UGREEN 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Remote Access stands out as an ideal choice for anyone wanting extensive storage without the hassle of complicated setups. It supports up to 120TB, perfect for storing millions of photos, songs, and movies. I love the user-friendly app that allows quick NFC connections and easy remote access across various devices. With its AI photo management features, it intelligently organizes my images and removes duplicates. Plus, the advanced encryption guarantees my data stays secure. Overall, this NAS combines impressive performance with beginner-friendly functionality, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to simplify their storage needs.
- Type:4-Bay Desktop NAS
- Capacity:Up to 120TB
- Network Speed:2.5GbE
- Security Features:Advanced encryption
- User Management:Beginner-friendly system
- Warranty:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Beginner-friendly setup
- Additional Feature:Magnetic dust cover
- Additional Feature:AI photo classification
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 4-Bay Network Attached Storage
When I’m choosing a 4-bay NAS, I focus on several key factors that can really make a difference. It’s not just about storage capacity; I also consider processor performance, data protection features, and network connectivity types. Plus, if I plan to stream media, I need to guarantee it has the right capabilities for that too.
Storage Capacity Options
Choosing the right storage capacity for a 4-bay NAS can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. First, think about your total storage needs; capacities can range from 120TB to 144TB depending on the hard drives you choose. I recommend considering RAID configurations like RAID 0, 5, or 6, which offer flexibility in optimizing both capacity and data redundancy. If you’re looking for speed, incorporating M.2 NVMe SSDs can greatly boost performance beyond traditional hard drives. It’s also important to evaluate how many files you plan to store—some NAS models can handle millions of photos or thousands of movies. Finally, look for systems that provide automatic backups and centralized storage for seamless data management.
2. Processor Performance
Understanding processor performance is essential for selecting the right 4-bay NAS. The architecture and core count of the processor directly affect how well the NAS handles multitasking and demanding applications like video transcoding. I’ve found that higher clock speeds and multi-core processors lead to faster read/write operations and smoother file transfers. If you’re in a small office or a household with heavy media use, a quad-core processor can efficiently manage multiple users at once. Advanced processors, especially those based on Intel’s x86 architecture, offer superior performance for resource-intensive tasks. Plus, a powerful processor opens up possibilities for features like Docker containers and virtual machines, enhancing functionality beyond basic file storage.
3. Data Protection Features
Selecting a 4-bay NAS without considering data protection features can leave your valuable data vulnerable. I always recommend looking for systems that support RAID configurations like RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 6. These provide essential data redundancy to guard against drive failures. Snapshot features are vital, too; they capture your data’s state at specific points, protecting you from accidental deletions or malware. Built-in encryption is a must for securing sensitive information and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Automatic backups to multiple destinations add an extra layer of security. Finally, advanced measures like TFSS snapshots and WORM technology can greatly enhance data integrity, making sure your data remains safe and sound.
4. Network Connectivity Types
Data protection features are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to a 4-bay NAS. I always consider network connectivity types, as they greatly impact performance. Standard Gigabit Ethernet offers up to 1 Gbps, but if you need faster transfers, look for options like 2.5GbE or 10GbE. Link aggregation can also be a game-changer, combining connections for improved speed and reliability. Make sure the NAS supports various network protocols like NFS and SMB, ensuring seamless file sharing across different devices. Built-in remote access features, such as MyQNAPCloud or Synology QuickConnect, are essential for accessing your data anywhere. Finally, think about future-proofing; investing in higher connectivity options can pay off as your network demands grow.
5. Media Streaming Capabilities
When it comes to choosing a 4-bay NAS, media streaming capabilities are essential for a seamless entertainment experience. I always look for hardware-level 4K H.265 decoding, as it guarantees smooth playback of high-definition videos across multiple devices without any lag. Compatibility with popular media server applications like Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin makes organizing and accessing my media a breeze. Real-time transcoding is a must, especially when streaming to devices with varying capabilities and network speeds. I also appreciate DLNA support, which simplifies sharing media across my home network. Finally, some models offer AI-driven photo management tools that automatically organize my libraries, enhancing my overall media experience and making it easier to enjoy my content.
6. User Management Flexibility
How important is user management flexibility in a 4-bay NAS? It’s vital, especially if you’re working with a diverse team. I love that I can create multiple independent user accounts, giving everyone personalized access and permissions. This feature guarantees sensitive data stays secure while still supporting collaboration among team members. I also appreciate the advanced options, like setting specific access rights tailored to our needs. With flexible RAID configurations, I can enhance data redundancy and manage access effectively. Plus, some NAS devices even come with mobile apps, allowing me to handle user management on the go. This level of flexibility makes remote collaboration seamless, letting teams work together effortlessly across devices and locations.
7. Setup and Usability
Having a flexible user management system is just one piece of the puzzle when choosing a 4-bay NAS. I always look for models with tool-free installation designs, which let me swap hard drives quickly without needing extra tools. A user-friendly mobile or desktop app simplifies the setup process and makes file sharing across different operating systems a breeze. It’s essential to choose a NAS that provides clear setup manuals or video tutorials, especially if you’re a beginner. Remote access is another must-have; it allows me to manage and retrieve data from anywhere. Finally, I consider systems that support automatic backups and synchronization, ensuring my data is always safe and easily accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Set up a 4-Bay NAS for Beginners?
Setting up a 4-bay NAS is like planting a garden. First, I choose the right seeds—my hard drives. I then open the NAS and gently place each drive in its slot, ensuring a snug fit. Next, I connect it to my router, like watering my garden. After powering it up, I configure the settings on my computer, just like deciding where to plant each flower. Soon, my digital garden blooms with organized data!
What Is the Difference Between RAID Levels for NAS?
The difference between RAID levels for NAS boils down to how they handle data. RAID 0 offers speed but no redundancy, while RAID 1 mirrors data for safety. RAID 5 balances both, using parity for protection with less storage loss. RAID 10 combines the benefits of RAID 0 and 1, providing speed and redundancy. I’ve found that choosing the right RAID level depends on whether I prioritize performance or data security.
Can I Use Any Hard Drives With a 4-Bay NAS?
Absolutely, you can use various hard drives with a 4-bay NAS, but not all are created equal. Think of it like shoes—some fit perfectly, while others pinch. It’s best to choose drives that are compatible with your NAS model for peak performance. I’ve found that sticking to NAS-rated drives enhances reliability and speed. Just verify they’re the right size and interface, and you’ll be good to go!
How Secure Is Data Stored on a 4-Bay NAS?
Data stored on a 4-bay NAS can be quite secure, but it really depends on how I configure it. I often use RAID setups to protect against drive failure, and I make sure to enable encryption for added security. Regular backups to an external source are a must for me, too. Plus, I stay vigilant about firmware updates to fend off vulnerabilities. Overall, with the right precautions, I feel my data’s pretty safe.
What Are Common Troubleshooting Steps for NAS Issues?
When I face NAS issues, I usually start with a few common troubleshooting steps. First, I check the power and connections, ensuring everything’s plugged in. Then, I restart the device, which often resolves minor glitches. Next, I verify network settings and permissions, making sure everything’s configured correctly. Finally, I consult the logs for any error messages. By following these steps, I’ve often managed to get my NAS back up and running smoothly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS can feel like a challenging decision, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering your specific storage needs and preferences, you can find the perfect fit. Whether you opt for the powerful Synology or the versatile UGREEN, each option brings its own unique strengths. So, explore the delightful world of digital storage, and discover the dynamic devices that can simplify your life and safeguard your precious data!
