When searching for a network attached storage 4 bay, you’re balancing performance, usability, and cost. The Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Pro stands out as the best overall for its robust features and versatility. The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a powerful Intel x86 processor ideal for heavy workloads, while the Ugreen DXP4800 Plus makes a compelling choice for families and small teams. Each option presents tradeoffs—whether it’s price, ease of use, or expandability—that matter depending on your needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what to look for when choosing your NAS in 2026.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance performance and ease of use, with the Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Pro leading as the most versatile overall.
- Processor choice heavily influences workload capacity—Intel x86 models like the TERRAMASTER F4-425 excel for demanding tasks.
- Pre-configured units tend to be more user-friendly for beginners, but diskless models offer greater customization.
- Network speed varies significantly; models with 2.5GbE or higher support faster data transfer for creative or business use.
- Price ranges widely; investing in a premium model provides better longevity and features but may be unnecessary for casual users.
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users |  | Best Overall for Demanding Workflows | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, up to 4.5GHz) | RAM: 8GB DDR5, expandable to 96GB | Network Ports: 10GbE + 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best Value for Home Media and Backup | Processor: Intel x86 quad-core | RAM: 4GB | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Network Storage for Creators and Office Teams |  | Best for Creators, Small Teams & Virtualization | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores | RAM: 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB (4 bays, 32TB each) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB Type-C Direct Attached Storage (DAS) with Hardware RAID |  | Best for Flexible External Storage and Backup | Number of Bays: 4 | Interface: USB Type-C | Supported RAID Levels: RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 AS3304T 4-Bay NAS, 1.7GHz Quad-Core, 2GB DDR4, 2.5GbE Network, Personal Media Server |  | Best for Home and Personal Use | Processor: 1.7GHz Quad-Core | RAM: 2GB DDR4 | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS |  | Best Overall for Home and Small Office Users | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS (Diskless) |  | Best for Secure Private Cloud and Data Backup | Model: DS223j | Number of Bays: 2 | Diskless: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams |  | Best for High-Capacity, Advanced Features, and Collaboration | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB | Number of Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 10GbE, 10Gbps USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding |  | Best for Media Streaming and Personal Cloud with Transcoding | Storage Bays: 2 | CPU: Intel | Transfer Speed: 282 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| network attached storage 4 bay | Number of Bays | Processor | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | — | Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, up to 4.5GHz) | 8GB DDR5, expandable to 96GB |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | 4 | Intel x86 quad-core | 4GB |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Ne | — | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB |
| QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB Type-C D | 4 | — | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 A | 4 | 1.7GHz Quad-Core | 2GB DDR4 |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | 4 | Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | 1GB DDR4 |
| Synology DiskStation DS223j 2- | 2 | — | — |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS | 4 | — | — |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro stands out for its high-performance hardware, making it ideal for IT professionals and developers who need robust processing power and extensive customization options. Its Intel Core i3 processor, expandable RAM, and support for Docker and virtual machines surpass many consumer-focused NAS models like the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro, offering a true workstation-level experience. The inclusion of dual 10GbE ports and support for massive storage (up to 144TB) enable seamless multitasking and large-scale data management. However, this power comes with a tradeoff: complex setup, higher price, and larger physical size may deter casual users or small offices with limited space. This pick is best for advanced users who prioritize performance and flexibility over simplicity.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Core i3 processor suitable for demanding workflows
- Massive storage capacity with flexible RAID options up to 144TB
- Supports Docker, virtual machines, and AI applications for advanced needs
- Enhanced security features including encryption and user permissions
Cons:- Setup process can be complex and time-consuming
- Higher price point compared to typical consumer NAS devices
- Large physical footprint may require significant space
Best for: IT professionals, developers, and power users needing maximum performance and customization.
Not ideal for: Home users or small offices seeking an easy-to-use, plug-and-play solution without advanced features.
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U (6 Cores, up to 4.5GHz)
- RAM:8GB DDR5, expandable to 96GB
- Network Ports:10GbE + 2.5GbE
- Storage Capacity:144TB (4x HDD + 2x M.2 SSD)
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe 4.0
- RAID Support:0, 1, 5, 10
Our verdict“This NAS is designed for tech-savvy users who need raw power, extensive storage, and advanced features, and are willing to handle a steeper learning curve.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a compelling balance of power and affordability, making it well suited for home multimedia users and small offices. Its Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM deliver reliable multitasking, comparable to the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro, but at a lower price point. Its support for 4K hardware decoding ensures smooth media streaming, while its quiet operation at 21dB makes it unobtrusive in living spaces. The tool-free HDD trays simplify installation, but the device’s maximum capacity of 120TB and lack of included drives can limit scalability for larger needs. This device is ideal for users who want solid performance without the complexity of high-end enterprise features. It’s best suited for home users, media enthusiasts, and small backups, not enterprise environments.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor capable of multitasking and 4K decoding
- Quiet operation suitable for home environments
- Easy HDD installation with tool-free trays
- Supports high-speed file transfers via 2.5GbE
Cons:- No included hard drives, additional purchase needed
- Maximum storage limited to 120TB with 4 drives
- Lacks advanced features like virtualization or Docker support
Best for: Home users and small offices needing reliable media streaming, data backup, and simple multitasking.
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals requiring virtualization, extensive expandability, or advanced security features.
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Max Storage Capacity:120TB
- Network Interface:2.5GbE
- HDD Tray:Tool-free Push-Lock
Our verdict“This NAS provides reliable, affordable performance for media and backup needs, making it a good choice for home and small office users who prioritize simplicity.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Network Storage for Creators and Office Teams
The UGREEN DXP4800 GT targets creators and small office environments with its high-performance AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor and extensive connectivity options. Its support for up to 144TB, dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation, and a rich set of features—including Docker, virtualization, and surveillance—place it ahead of most consumer NAS devices like the Synology DS223j. The system’s expandable RAM (up to 64GB) and multiple SSD options support demanding multitasking and media processing. However, its complex setup, non-included drives, and non-ECC RAM may deter less experienced users or those seeking enterprise-grade stability. This model makes sense for tech-savvy professionals needing high throughput, virtualization, and security features.
Pros:- High-performance AMD Ryzen embedded processor with 4 cores
- Dual 10GbE ports support link aggregation for maximum throughput
- Supports multiple applications including media, security, and virtualization
- Expandable RAM and extensive SSD options for intensive workloads
Cons:- Drives are not included, increasing initial setup cost
- Setup can be complex for users unfamiliar with enterprise features
- Non-ECC RAM may limit long-term stability for critical data
Best for: Creators, small teams, and advanced users wanting high performance and virtualization capabilities.
Not ideal for: Home users or those seeking a simple, out-of-the-box storage solution without additional configuration complexity.
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB (4 bays, 32TB each)
- Network:Dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2 SSD
- Security:TLS/SSL, RSA, AES
Our verdict“This NAS is best for technically proficient users who need high throughput, virtualization, and extensive expandability for creative or office tasks.”
QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB Type-C Direct Attached Storage (DAS) with Hardware RAID
The QNAP TR-004 excels as an external storage solution offering hardware RAID support for flexible data protection. Its USB Type-C interface makes it compatible across Windows, macOS, and Linux, much like the Synology DS223j, but with more flexible RAID options including RAID 5 and JBOD. The lockable drive bays add a layer of security, and its diskless design allows users to choose their drives. However, it lacks NAS-specific features such as network access, cloud integration, or virtualization support, limiting its role to direct-attached backups or expanders. The device’s reliance on 3.5-inch SATA drives also restricts compatibility with smaller SSDs or enterprise drives. Ideal for users who need portable, flexible external storage and backup, not standalone NAS functions.
Pros:- Supports multiple RAID levels for flexible data protection
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems
- Lockable drive bays enhance security during transport or storage
- Plug-and-play with easy setup
Cons:- Does not support NAS-specific features or network access
- Limited to 3.5-inch SATA drives, restricting SSD options
- Cannot be used as a standalone network storage device
Best for: Users seeking external, hardware-accelerated RAID storage for backup or expansion, especially for multi-OS environments.
Not ideal for: Those wanting direct network access, media streaming, or virtualization capabilities in a NAS environment.
- Number of Bays:4
- Interface:USB Type-C
- Supported RAID Levels:RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD
- Drive Compatibility:3.5-inch SATA
- Diskless:Yes
- Includes:USB Type-C to Type-A cable
Our verdict“This device is perfect for users needing portable, hardware-accelerated RAID external storage for backups or expansion, not for network-based storage needs.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 AS3304T 4-Bay NAS, 1.7GHz Quad-Core, 2GB DDR4, 2.5GbE Network, Personal Media Server
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 AS3304T offers a straightforward, user-friendly NAS experience with decent performance for personal media and file storage. Its 1.7GHz quad-core processor and 2GB DDR4 RAM provide sufficient power for basic multitasking, similar to the Synology DS223j, but with a notable edge in network speed thanks to 2.5GbE support. Its tool-free drive bays make it accessible for beginners, yet its limited RAM and basic feature set may fall short for heavier multitasking or advanced media processing. This device is best for users who want a simple, reliable way to store and stream media at home without the complexity of enterprise features. It’s ideal for casual users and families prioritizing ease of use over scalability.
Pros:- Fast 2.5GbE network for quicker data transfers
- Easy to install with tool-free drive bays
- Decent quad-core processor for everyday tasks
- Intuitive interface suitable for beginners
Cons:- Limited 2GB RAM may slow down heavy multitasking
- No included drives, requiring additional purchase
- Basic feature set may not support advanced applications
Best for: Home users, families, and casual media streamers seeking simple, fast network storage.
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals needing virtualization, extensive security, or high scalability.
- Processor:1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:2GB DDR4
- Number of Bays:4
- Network:2.5GbE
- Design:Tool-Free Drive Bays
- Use Case:Media streaming, personal cloud
Our verdict“This NAS suits users who want simple, fast, and reliable storage for personal or family media without the need for complex features.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
This model stands out for its combination of speed and versatility, offering a 2.5GbE network ports that deliver faster file transfers compared to typical Gigabit models like the Synology DS223j. Its support for multiple RAID configurations ensures data redundancy and peace of mind, while its 4K media streaming capabilities appeal to those who want a personal media hub. Compared with the Synology DS225+, the AS1204T provides more network speed but requires users to buy their own hard drives, which adds to the initial cost. Its limited RAM (1GB DDR4) may hinder multitasking for demanding workloads. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for users who prioritize fast local network performance and media streaming in a home or small office environment but are comfortable with assembling their storage solutions.
Pros:- Fast 2.5GbE network for quick file transfers
- Supports multiple RAID configurations for data safety
- 4K media streaming capabilities
- Creates a secure personal cloud
Cons:- Diskless, so hard drives must be purchased separately
- Limited RAM may restrict heavy multitasking
Best for: Home users and small offices seeking fast network transfers and media streaming
Not ideal for: Power users needing extensive multitasking or pre-installed drives, as it’s diskless and has limited RAM
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Number of Bays:4
- USB Ports:3 USB 3.0
- Hard Drive Compatibility:2.5 inches
Our verdict“This NAS offers a compelling balance of speed and media features, ideal for users who want a ready-to-go media server with fast network connectivity.”
Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS (Diskless)
The DS223j is tailored for users who prioritize security and ease of use, offering a reliable platform for private cloud storage and automated backups. Its multi-platform access makes sharing simple across devices, while the 2-year warranty offers peace of mind. Unlike the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus, which is more feature-rich but also more complex, the DS223j keeps things straightforward, making it suitable for less technically inclined users. However, its lack of included drives means additional investment, and its two-bay design limits total capacity unless drives are upgraded. This NAS makes a good choice for small households or small teams needing secure, automated data protection without extensive setup complexity.
Pros:- Secure private cloud with multi-platform access
- Automated backup for multiple devices
- Supports remote monitoring with IP cameras
- Reliable hardware with warranty support
Cons:- Requires additional disks for storage
- Limited to NAS functionalities without included drives
Best for: Small households or small teams requiring secure, automated backups and simple cloud access
Not ideal for: Power users or creators needing large storage or advanced features like Docker or virtual machines
- Model:DS223j
- Number of Bays:2
- Diskless:Yes
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“A dependable choice for users seeking straightforward, secure backup and cloud access with minimal fuss.”
UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams
This model makes a strong case for users who need massive storage capacity up to 144TB and support for advanced features like Docker containers and virtual machines. Its 10GbE network ports enable rapid data transfer, ideal for teams or creative professionals working with large files. Compared with the Synology DS225+, the DXP4800 Plus offers more power and flexibility, but its reliance on wired Ethernet and the need to purchase drives separately could be drawbacks for some users. Setup might be more involved, and its higher price reflects the premium features. This NAS targets small businesses, creative teams, or tech-savvy families that want a flexible, expandable storage solution with enterprise-like capabilities.
Pros:- Massive storage capacity up to 144TB
- Supports Docker and virtual machines
- Secure private cloud with encryption
- High-speed 10GbE connectivity
Cons:- Drives are not included and must be purchased separately
- Requires wired Ethernet, no Wi-Fi support
- Speed varies with network setup
Best for: Small offices, creative teams, or power users needing high storage and advanced features
Not ideal for: Casual home users or those with limited technical expertise, due to complexity and cost of drives
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB
- Number of Bays:4
- Network Ports:10GbE, 10Gbps USB
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Hard Drive Compatibility:Supports third-party HDDs/SSDs
Our verdict“Designed for users who need large-scale, high-performance storage with advanced virtualization and collaboration features.”
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding
The DS225+ targets individuals or small households looking for a media-centric NAS with the ability to handle 4K streaming and hardware transcoding thanks to its Intel CPU. Its surveillance support with AI detection adds an extra layer of security, making it suitable for small business surveillance setups as well. Compared to the DS223j, the DS225+ offers faster transfer speeds (282 MB/s) and better processing for media-heavy tasks, but it also involves a steeper learning curve for setup. Its diskless design means additional drive costs, but for those focusing on media and surveillance, this model provides a more capable hardware platform overall.
Pros:- Supports 4K media streaming and hardware transcoding
- Automated backups with multi-layer data protection
- Surveillance support with AI detection and remote monitoring
- Reliable hardware with 3-year warranty
Cons:- Diskless, so drives must be purchased separately
- More complex setup for advanced features
Best for: Individuals or small households needing media streaming, 4K transcoding, and surveillance support
Not ideal for: Those seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions or with limited technical skills, due to setup complexity
- Storage Bays:2
- CPU:Intel
- Transfer Speed:282 MB/s
- Surveillance Support:Up to 30 IP cameras
- Warranty:3 Years
Our verdict“A strong choice for users who prioritize media capabilities and surveillance features in a compact, high-performance package.”
How We Picked
To determine these rankings, I evaluated each NAS based on performance, build quality, ease of setup, expandability, and value for money. I prioritized models with strong processing power and reliable network interfaces, as these directly impact data transfer speeds and multitasking ability. Usability was also key—units that require minimal setup and offer intuitive management scored higher. I considered the needs of different user types, from power users to casual users, ensuring each product offers a clear advantage in its niche. Cost was a factor, but I focused on features that justify price differences, so more expensive options are genuinely more capable or easier to use.Factors to Consider When Choosing Network Attached Storage 4 Bay
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS involves more than just looking at specs. Understanding your primary use case—whether for media streaming, backup, or business storage—guides decisions on processor power, RAM, and network interfaces. Reliability and ease of maintenance are also key, especially for long-term deployment. Additionally, consider expandability options and software ecosystem support, as these influence future-proofing. Budget constraints matter, but investing in a better-suited model can save costs and headaches later. Being aware of common pitfalls, like underestimating storage needs or ignoring network capabilities, helps refine your choice.Performance and Processing Power
Processor speed and core count directly impact how well your NAS handles multitasking, large files, and demanding applications. For intensive tasks like media transcoding or running multiple virtual machines, models with Intel x86 chips, such as the TERRAMASTER F4-425, are ideal. Conversely, less powerful ARM-based models can suffice for simple backups or media streaming. Avoid underestimating your needs—buying a lower-powered unit may lead to frustration as your storage demands grow.
Network Connectivity and Speed
The ability to transfer data quickly depends on the NAS’s network interfaces. Models with 2.5GbE or higher support faster speeds than standard gigabit ports, which is especially beneficial for large media files or backup tasks. Check if your existing network infrastructure can support these speeds or if upgrades are necessary. A higher network capacity means less bottlenecking, keeping data flow smooth whether you’re streaming 4K videos or backing up server data.
Ease of Use and Management
User-friendly interfaces, setup wizards, and mobile apps can make or break your experience, particularly if you’re not a tech expert. Some brands, like Synology and Asustor, excel in intuitive software, reducing the learning curve. Diskless units offer more flexibility but may require more setup, which can be challenging for beginners. Consider your comfort level and whether you need extensive features or a straightforward plug-and-play solution.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
Assess how easily the NAS can grow with your needs. Some models support added RAM or additional disks, while others have limited upgrade paths. Think about your long-term storage plans—if you anticipate needing more space or advanced features like virtualization or multiple user accounts, choose a model with expandability. Neglecting this can lead to costly replacements or complex migrations down the line.
Price and Value
While budget is always a consideration, spending more on a higher-quality NAS can enhance performance, reliability, and longevity. Cheaper models may save money upfront but often lack features necessary for demanding environments. Balance your immediate needs with future expectations—sometimes, investing a bit more now prevents costly upgrades or replacements later. Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best fit; focus on features that match your use case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 4-bay NAS for off-site backups?
Absolutely. A 4-bay NAS provides ample space and redundancy options for backing up critical data from other devices or locations. You can set up automated backups for computers, servers, or cloud services, making it a reliable off-site storage solution. Ensure your network capacity and remote access options are sufficient for transferring large files securely over the internet. Choosing a model with good security features and remote management tools simplifies this process.
Is it better to buy a diskless NAS or one with drives pre-installed?
Diskless NAS units offer flexibility, allowing you to choose and configure drives based on your capacity and performance needs. This can be advantageous if you want to upgrade drives over time or use specific brands. However, they require more technical knowledge to set up and optimize. Pre-installed models are ready to use immediately, ideal for those who prefer simplicity. Your choice depends on your comfort with setup and whether you want customization or convenience.
How important is the network interface in a 4-bay NAS?
The network interface is vital because it determines data transfer speeds and overall responsiveness. Standard gigabit Ethernet can be limiting for large files or multiple users, so models with 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports provide significant performance improvements. Check if your existing network infrastructure supports these higher speeds, or consider upgrading your switches and cabling. Faster interfaces reduce wait times and improve productivity, especially in creative or business environments.
What’s the main difference between a NAS for home use and one for business?
NAS units for business typically feature more robust hardware, better security, and advanced management tools to support multiple users and remote access. They often include higher processing power, faster network interfaces, and expandability options. Home models, on the other hand, prioritize ease of use, media streaming capabilities, and affordability. If your needs are simple backups or media storage, a home-focused NAS will suffice. For business-critical tasks, investing in a more capable, enterprise-grade model is advisable.
Should I pay more for a NAS with hardware transcoding capabilities?
Hardware transcoding can be a game-changer if you frequently stream high-resolution media across multiple devices. It enables real-time conversion of media files to compatible formats without taxing your CPU. If media streaming is a central use case, paying extra for a NAS with this feature provides smoother playback and less buffering. However, for basic storage or backups, this feature may be unnecessary, and a more affordable model could be sufficient.
Conclusion
For users seeking a reliable, versatile solution that balances performance and ease of use, the Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Pro emerges as the best overall choice. Budget-conscious buyers or those just starting out might prefer the Synology DS223j or Synology DS225+, which offer solid features at a lower price point. Creative professionals or small teams requiring faster network speeds and higher processing power should consider the TERRAMASTER F4-425 or Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro. Finally, those with advanced needs or a focus on future expandability will benefit from models like the QNAP TR-004. Matching your specific use case with the right features will ensure a satisfying investment in your network storage setup.
