If you own one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, you might be looking for a robust solution to back up or transfer your precious data. Even if your device is equipped with a top SSD or you have decently large external hard drives for storing your essential files, photos, and other content, nothing quite matches the convenience and scalability of a great NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Our top recommendation is the Synology DiskStation DS224+, which offers a seamless and powerful storage solution.

TL;DR – These are the Best NAS Devices:

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0See it at Amazon### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0See it at Amazon### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0See it at Amazon### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0See it at Amazon### QNAP TS-264-8G

0See it at Amazon### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0See it at Amazon### ioSafe Duo Pro

0See it at ioSafeThe best NAS drives offer substantial storage capacity and integrate seamlessly with your home network, facilitating quick data transfers to and from all your devices. Smartphones, tablets, desktops, and laptops can connect to the same network simultaneously, and syncing them is straightforward, making NAS ideal for managing digital media libraries. However, NAS devices can be pricey, so it's crucial to choose wisely. We've narrowed down your options to eight excellent NAS devices, each suited for different use cases.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0The Synology DiskStation DS224+ is an easy-to-use, high-performance NAS with two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of upgradable RAM. It's perfect for those who want a reliable and straightforward NAS solution without the hassle of complex software or underpowered hardware. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelSHR, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize9.02" x 9.13" x 6.5"PROSEasy-to-use interfaceFast quad-core processorCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS224+ is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-capability yet user-friendly NAS. With two drive bays, you can expand storage up to 32TB, depending on the drives you select, or opt for a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The dual Gigabit LAN ports support higher speeds with Link Aggregation or network failover, although a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN support would enhance connectivity further.

Synology's versatile apps and software run on an intuitive interface, enabling you to store security camera footage, use it as a Plex server, or keep files and photos secure and accessible. Whether you're transcoding 4K media, managing files, or streaming videos, the DiskStation DS224+ performs exceptionally well, thanks to its powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, which can be upgraded for even better performance.

2. UGreen NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 offers quality hardware, a stylish design, and an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users looking to back up their files effectively. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB, HDMIRAID Level JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, BasicStorage2 x 2.5"/3.5" bays, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSizeNot listedPROSComprehensive OS and appsMulti-gig ethernetCONSNo native Plex The UGREEN NASync DXP2800 is a well-built, stylish NAS that offers quality hardware at a midrange price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and comes with 8GB of RAM, making it ready to handle a high-quality video library with ease, including hardware transcoding.

UGreen's comprehensive OS ensures a simple setup and network configuration, along with extra security features like two-factor authentication. Backing up files and creating your own cloud server for remote access is straightforward. While Plex isn't natively supported, installing it via Docker is simple, and performance remains excellent.

For storage, the dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, providing ample space for media or the option to run two drives in RAID for redundancy. UGreen's toolless system makes drive installation easy, and two M.2 slots can accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB. The 2.5Gb ethernet ensures fast file transfers, and additional connectivity options include HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A ports for broad device support.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0The Synology DiskStation DS223j is an ultra-affordable and user-friendly NAS, perfect for beginners and those with simpler storage needs. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USBRAID LevelBasic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, SHRStorage2 x 3.5" baysSize6.5" x 3.94" x 8.9"PROSReliable hardwareEasy to useCONSLacks multi-gig ethernet portThe Synology DiskStation DS223j is an affordable option for those new to NAS or with basic storage requirements. It comes with Synology's renowned DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering comprehensive applications for seamless file storage and access across all your devices.

While the build quality is mostly plastic and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, this shouldn't be a frequent issue. The DS223j supports up to 32TB of storage without M.2 slots for caching or additional storage, and it lacks a multi-gig ethernet port. Nevertheless, it excels in simplicity, reliability, and affordability.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0The Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T is designed for power users and professionals, featuring an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, versatile drive bays, and two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.0, HDMIRAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1Storage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize9.06" x 4.25" x 6.44"PROSDual M.2 PCIe NVMe slots for additional storageSupports 10-bit 4K hardware decodingCONSDrive installation is more involvedThe Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is ideal for those who demand high performance from their NAS. It comes equipped with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 8GB. The two drive bays support both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing for massive storage up to 18TB per drive or faster SSDs. Two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots offer even more storage options.

Network connectivity is robust with dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports that can be combined for 5Gb connectivity through link aggregation. The AS6602T is perfect for speedy backups, virtualization, or as a powerful media center, featuring an HDMI 2.0 port and support for 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a superior 4K HDR experience.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0The Synology DiskStation DS1821+ offers extensive storage with eight drive bays for a total capacity of 128TB, along with M.2 2280 NVMe slots, making it ideal for those with large data needs. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2RAID LevelJBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)Storage8 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe slotsSize18.2" x 14.4" x 12.5"PROSWild 128TB capacityHot-swappable drivesCONSCan get noisyFor those with a vast amount of files and data, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is an ideal solution. It's a high-end NAS with a price tag over $1,000, but it offers future-proof expandability. With eight drive bays supporting both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives or SSDs, it provides a massive 128TB capacity, and the drives are hot-swappable for easy maintenance.

The DS1821+ also supports expansion units to increase capacity to 18 drive bays, and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots for high-speed caching. It's powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory, which can be expanded to 32GB, ensuring robust performance.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

### QNAP TS-264-8G

0The QNAP TS-264-8G is designed for media streaming, featuring two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a 4K HDMI output, dual drive bays, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, HDMIRAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBODStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize8.1" x 6.6" x 4.1"PROSCompact designImpressive hardwareCONSSoftware is harder to masterThe QNAP TS-264-8G is tailored for media streaming, offering a central location for your media library. With dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports, it can handle high throughput, ensuring smooth access to large media files even with multiple users. Its 4K-capable HDMI output allows for direct connection to your TV.

The TS-264-8G features two 3.5-inch drive bays for ample storage and two PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or enhanced network speeds. An Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory ensure smooth operation, including 4K video streaming with hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0The Synology DiskStation DS923+ offers robust data protection with four drive bays and various RAID configurations, ensuring your data backup is secure and expandable. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectionEthernet, USB 3.2, eSATARAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBODStorage4 x 3.5"/2.5" bay, 2 x M.2 PCIe slotsSize6.5" x 7.8" x 8.7" PROSOffers various RAID levelsExpandable storage and RAMCONSNo multi-gig LAN portThe Synology DiskStation DS923+ is perfect for those who prioritize data security, offering four drive bays and multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD. This allows you to choose the best setup for your data protection needs.

The DS923+ supports both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives and includes two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. It features two 1Gb ethernet ports with support for Link Aggregation or Failover, and there's an option for 10Gb connectivity. A high-performing dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, along with the easy-to-use DSM operating system, ensure efficient operation.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

### ioSafe Duo Pro

0While not technically a NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro drive offers fireproof and water-resistant protection for your data, along with RAID configurations for additional security. See it at ioSafeProduct SpecificationsConnectionUSB 3.2RAID LevelRAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, SPANStorage2 x 3.5"/2.5" baysSize11.50" x 5.91" x 9.06"PROSFireproof and water-resistantOffers two robust, long-lasting drive baysCONSNot designed to be a NASThe ioSafe Duo Pro drive is designed to protect your data from physical damage, being both fireproof and water-resistant with an IP68 rating that withstands submersion up to 10 feet for 72 hours. While not a traditional NAS, it offers various RAID configurations and robust drive bays for data protection.

ioSafe provides data recovery services for customers. To use it as a NAS, you'll need to connect it to your home network via an always-on computer or directly to your router using USB.

What to Look for in NAS

A NAS device can resolve many networking challenges, particularly if multiple devices on your network need to share files or require centralized backups. If you and your family or housemates use the same network, a NAS allows you to share files easily from a single unit. Similarly, backing up multiple computers can be streamlined with a single NAS drive.

What are you using it for?

If you need to access the same tools or files across multiple devices, a NAS device is invaluable. It's not just about storage but also about accessibility. For those with large media libraries, turning your NAS into a Plex server can provide quick access to movies, TV shows, and music across your home network.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices are sold without disks, requiring you to buy them separately. While this can be a consideration if you already own suitable drives, always check the manufacturer's recommendations as certain brands may be more compatible. The number of bays determines the potential storage capacity; two or more bays are typically recommended, with multimedia systems often requiring more.