Top NAS Picks for 2025: Secure Storage for Games, Movies, and More

If you own one of the best gaming PCs or laptops, you're likely in need of a robust solution to back up or transfer all the valuable data stored on it. Even if you're equipped with a top SSD or have decently large external hard drives holding your essential files, photos, and other content, nothing beats the versatility and security of a great NAS (network-attached storage) drive. Our top recommendation is the Synology DiskStation DS224+, which offers unparalleled performance and ease of use.

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 ioSafe

The best NAS drives provide significant storage capacity and integrate seamlessly into your home network, facilitating quick data transfers between your devices. Whether you're using smartphones, tablets, desktops, or laptops, NAS devices allow multiple connections on the same network and make syncing them up a breeze, making them perfect for managing digital media libraries. However, NAS options can be expensive, so it's crucial to choose wisely. We've narrowed down the best options to eight excellent NAS devices for various needs.

1. Synology DiskStation DS224+

Best NAS

Our Top Pick### Synology DiskStation DS224+

0This easy-to-use, high-speed NAS features two drive bays, two Gigabit LAN ports, a powerful Intel Celeron processor, and 2GB of 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 complex software or settling for simple hardware, the Synology DiskStation DS224+ is the perfect choice. It offers a highly capable yet straightforward NAS experience. With two drive bays, you can opt for increased storage—up to 32TB depending on the drives—or a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy. The two Gigabit LAN ports support higher speeds with Link Aggregation or network failover, though we wish it included a 2.5GB or 10GB LAN port for even faster connections.

Synology's versatile apps and software operate on an intuitive interface. You can set it up to store security camera footage, use it as a Plex server, or securely store and access your files and photos. Whether you need to transcode 4K media, manage files efficiently, or stream videos smoothly, the DiskStation DS224+ performs exceptionally well, thanks to its powerful Intel Celeron J4125 2.0GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM.

2. UGreen NASync DXP2800

Best Budget NAS

### UGREEN NASync DXP2800

0With quality hardware, a stylish design, and a modest price, this NAS comes with dual drive bays, ready to back up all your files. See it at Amazon

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 is well-constructed, aesthetically pleasing, and offers quality hardware at a mid-range price. It's powered by an Intel N100 quad-core processor and comes with 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 extra security features like two-factor authentication to keep your content safe. Backing up files and creating your own cloud server for remote access is straightforward. While Plex isn't native, it's easy to install using Docker, and performance remains top-notch.

In terms of storage, the dual SATA drive bays support up to 24TB each, offering ample space for your media or the option for redundancy with RAID. UGreen's toolless system simplifies drive installation. Additionally, two M.2 slots accommodate NVMe SSDs up to 8TB for fast storage expansion. The 2.5Gb ethernet ensures speedy SATA file transfers, and other connectivity options include HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A for broad device support.

3. Synology DiskStation DS223j

Most Affordable NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS223j

0An ultra-affordable and user-friendly NAS perfect for beginners. See it at Amazon

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

Not all NAS options are prohibitively expensive, and the Synology DiskStation DS223j is a prime example, ideal for NAS newcomers and those with simpler storage needs. It runs on Synology's top-rated DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS, offering comprehensive applications that make storing and accessing your files and data effortless across all devices.

While the build quality is basic, primarily plastic, and requires a screwdriver for drive installation, it's not a major issue as you won't need to open the chassis frequently. The storage is limited to 32TB without M.2 slots for caching or additional storage, and there's no multi-gig ethernet port for faster transfer speeds. Nonetheless, for simplicity, reliability, and affordability, the DS223j is unmatched.

4. Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

Best NAS for Power Users and Professionals

### Asustor Lockerstor 2 AS6602T

0With hardware like an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of upgradable RAM, drive bays supporting 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, and two additional M.2 PCIe NVMe slots, this NAS can keep up with demanding tasks. See it at Amazon

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

For those seeking a versatile and powerful NAS, the Asustor Lockerstor AS6602T is an excellent choice. It features an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM, which you can upgrade to 8GB. The NAS includes two easy-access drive bays for 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing you to choose between large-capacity HDDs or speedy SSDs. Additionally, two M.2 PCIe NVMe slots are available for even faster storage options.

Setting up the network is straightforward with dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports that can be combined for a 5Gb connection using link aggregation. This NAS is perfect for speedy backups, virtualization, or as a powerful media center. It also features an HDMI 2.0 port and supports 10-bit 4K hardware decoding for a 4K HDR experience.

5. Synology DiskStation DS1821+

Best Multi-Bay NAS

### Synology DiskStation DS1821+

0For those requiring extensive storage, this NAS offers eight drive bays for up to 128TB capacity and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots. See it at Amazon

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

If you have a vast collection of files, data, and content to store and access across multiple devices, the Synology DiskStation DS1821+ is the ideal solution. Though it comes at a higher price point, over $1,000, it offers significant expandability for future needs.

The DS1821+ boasts eight drive bays for 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, providing up to 128TB of capacity with hot-swappable drives. For even more storage, it supports expansion units, increasing to 18 drive bays, and includes M.2 2280 NVMe slots for high-speed caching. The system is powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen CPU and 4GB of DDR4 ECC memory, which can be expanded to 32GB.

6. QNAP TS-264-8G

Best NAS for Media Streaming

### QNAP TS-264-8G

0Centralize 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. See it at Amazon

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

A NAS provides a centralized location for all your devices to access your media library, and the QNAP TS-264-8G is tailored specifically for streaming. It avoids network bottlenecks with dual 2.5Gb ethernet ports, ensuring sufficient throughput even when multiple users access large media files. You can position it next to your TV, as it features a 4K-capable HDMI output.

The TS-264-8G includes two 3.5-inch drive bays for ample storage, with two additional PCIe Gen 3 slots for fast caching or enhanced network speeds. It's powered by an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, enabling smooth 4K video streams with hardware transcoding.

7. Synology DiskStation DS923+

Best Network Attached Storage for RAID Configurations

### SynologyDiskStation DS923+

0Ensure robust data backup with this NAS, offering four drive bays for ample storage and multiple RAID configurations for redundancy. See it at Amazon

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

One of the key benefits of NAS is secure data backup, and using RAID configurations can enhance this security. The Synology DiskStation DS923+ is ideal for this purpose, offering four drive bays for substantial storage and the option to run in redundancy with various RAID types, including RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, and JBOD.

The DS923+ supports 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives and includes two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for fast caching. With two 1Gb ethernet ports supporting Link Aggregation or Failover, and the option to add 10Gb connectivity, you'll have the speed you need. The NAS is powered by a high-performing dual-core AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of upgradable DDR4 RAM, running on the user-friendly DSM operating system.

8. ioSafe Duo Pro

Best Rugged NAS

### ioSafe Duo Pro

0Though not a traditional NAS, the ioSafe Duo Pro drive protects your data from fire and water, offering RAID configurations for additional security. 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

Using a NAS to back up your files and devices is crucial for keeping your information safe, but what if your NAS itself is damaged? The ioSafe Duo Pro addresses this concern with its fireproof and water-resistant design, boasting an IP68 rating that protects against submersion in water up to 10 feet for 72 hours.

Beyond physical protection, the ioSafe Duo Pro offers various RAID configurations and robust, long-lasting drive bays to safeguard your data from the start. ioSafe even provides data recovery services. However, note that this direct-attach storage device isn't 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

Not everyone needs a NAS, but it can solve certain networking challenges. If you and your family or housemates share the same network, a NAS device allows you to share files across all those computers from a single central unit. It also simplifies backing up multiple computers onto one drive.

What are you using it for?

If you're in a situation where multiple devices in your home need to access the same tools or files, a NAS device is worth considering. It's not just about storage but also about seamless access.

Another compelling reason for a NAS is if you have a large media library you want to access from various devices like computers, TVs, and tablets. You can turn your NAS into a Plex server, providing everyone in your home with quick access to the same movies, TV shows, and music.

Go diskless? How many bays?

Most NAS devices are sold without disk drives, requiring you to purchase them separately. Since NAS manufacturers typically don't produce hard drives, they offer their devices diskless. If you already own compatible drives, this isn't a problem, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations, as some drive brands may perform better than others.

Bays are where disk drives are housed, and the more bays a NAS has, the greater its potential capacity. Generally, two or more bays are ideal, with multimedia systems often requiring more.