When searching for the best NAS 4 bay in 2026, you’ll find options that range from powerful enterprise-ready models to budget-friendly solutions. The Synology DiskStation DS925+ stands out as the overall top choice thanks to its user-friendly interface and robust features. For those prioritizing raw performance, the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro offers a compelling mix of speed and expandability. However, tradeoffs often involve balancing cost, ease of use, and hardware flexibility. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top contenders and what makes each unique.
Key Takeaways
- The best NAS 4 bay balances performance, ease of use, and expandability within your budget.
- Diskless models like Synology DS925+ offer flexibility but require careful selection of compatible drives.
- High-speed networking features such as 10GbE are common in premium options but increase cost.
- Build quality and thermal management significantly impact long-term reliability, especially for always-on setups.
- Choosing between pre-configured and diskless models depends on your technical comfort and upgrade plans.
| AOOSTAR WTR PRO AMD Ryzen 7 5825U Mini NAS PC, No RAM/SSD, 4K HDMI, Dual M.2 NVMe, 4 Bay Storage |  | Best for Power Users Demanding Raw Performance | Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 8 cores, 16 threads | Graphics: Integrated Radeon Vega | Memory Support: Dual channel DDR4, up to 64GB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for Small Offices and Collaboration | Processor: Intel Pentium Gold 8505 | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Storage: No drives included | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel Core i3-1315U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for Demanding Business and Power Users | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U | RAM: 8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB) | Storage Capacity: Supports up to 144TB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best for Reliable Data Management and Ease of Use | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Sequential Read/Write: up to 522/565 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage – Intel Quad-Core, 4GB RAM, 2.5GbE, Multimedia Server for Home |  | Best Overall NAS for Home Multimedia and Versatile Performance | Processor: Intel x86 Quad-Core | RAM: 4GB | LAN: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER D4-320 External Hard Drive Enclosure – 4 Bay USB 3.2 Gen2, Plug and Play, Hot Swappable, Diskless |  | Best External Storage Enclosure for High-Speed, Flexible Expansion | Number of Bays: 4 | Interface: USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C | Supported Drive Types: 3.5-inch SATA HDD, 2.5-inch SATA HDD, 2.5-inch SATA SSD | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) |  | Best for Secure Private Cloud and Data Protection | Number of Bays: 4 | Diskless: Yes | Warranty: 2 years | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB Type-C Direct Attached Storage (DAS) with Hardware RAID (Diskless) |  | Best External RAID-Enabled Storage for Flexibility and Security | Number of Bays: 4 | Drive Interface: SATA 3Gb/s | Connectivity: USB Type-C | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
AOOSTAR WTR PRO AMD Ryzen 7 5825U Mini NAS PC, No RAM/SSD, 4K HDMI, Dual M.2 NVMe, 4 Bay Storage
The AOOSTAR WTR PRO offers a robust platform for demanding tasks like video editing and multitasking, powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor. Compared to the UGREEN NASsync DXP4800 Plus, it excels in raw CPU power and supports high-performance applications, making it suitable for users who need a mini PC with storage. Its lack of pre-installed RAM or SSD is a notable drawback, adding complexity for those who want a ready-to-use system. It’s best suited for tech-savvy users who can assemble their own setup and need a device that balances NAS capabilities with high computing power.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 processor suitable for demanding tasks
- Supports up to three 4K displays for multitasking
- Expandable storage with four bays and dual M.2 slots
- Quiet operation with efficient cooling
Cons:- No pre-installed RAM or SSD, requiring additional components
- Limited to 15W-25W power consumption which may constrain high-performance tasks
Best for: Power users and small business owners needing high-performance multitasking
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a plug-and-play NAS solution
- Processor:AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 8 cores, 16 threads
- Graphics:Integrated Radeon Vega
- Memory Support:Dual channel DDR4, up to 64GB
- Storage Bays:4 bays (up to 88TB with 22TB drives)
- Video Output:Supports 3 x 4K displays
- Power Consumption:15W – 25W
Bottom line: This mini PC is best for technically skilled users who need high processing power alongside NAS capabilities.
UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus is designed for small teams that need fast, reliable data sharing, supporting high-speed transfer with 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports. Its support for Docker and virtual machines marks it as a flexible platform for advanced workflows, surpassing the more basic Synology DS925+ in raw performance and expandability. The main tradeoff is that it arrives diskless, requiring users to purchase drives separately, and its setup may challenge beginners. This model makes the most sense for tech-savvy offices seeking a powerful, centralized storage hub with virtualization features.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Pentium Gold processor
- Supports Docker and virtual machines for advanced use
- Fast data transfer with 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports
- Supports extensive storage with large RAID options
Cons:- Hard drives are not included and must be purchased separately
- Initial setup can be complex for less technical users
Best for: Small teams and professionals who need fast data transfer and virtualization capabilities
Not ideal for: Individuals seeking a simple, out-of-the-box home NAS with minimal setup
- Processor:Intel Pentium Gold 8505
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Storage:No drives included
- Network Ports:1 x 10GbE, 1 x 2.5GbE
- M.2 NVMe Slots:2
- Video Output:4K HDMI
Bottom line: This NAS is ideal for small offices requiring high speed, virtualization, and scalable storage solutions.
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel Core i3-1315U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro combines powerful Intel Core i3 processors with expandability, making it suitable for demanding workflows like virtualization, Docker, and AI applications. Compared with the less capable NASsync DXP4800 Plus, this model offers a more robust CPU and extensive cooling, making it better for continuous, heavy-duty use. Its higher price reflects these benefits, but setup complexity and the need for technical knowledge can be barriers for beginners. This device makes sense for businesses or advanced users who require a high-performance, versatile NAS that can handle multiple intensive tasks simultaneously.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Core i3-1315U processor
- Supports virtualization, Docker, and AI features
- Extensive storage with support for RAID configurations
- Robust cooling and build quality for 24/7 operation
Cons:- Setup complexity may deter beginners
- Higher price point due to advanced features
Best for: Business users and power users with demanding workflows and virtualization needs
Not ideal for: Users new to NAS who prefer simple, plug-and-play solutions
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- RAM:8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB)
- Storage Capacity:Supports up to 144TB
- Network Ports:1 x 10GbE, 1 x 2.5GbE
- M.2 NVMe:2 slots
- Drive Bays:4
Bottom line: This NAS is best for tech-savvy professionals needing a reliable, high-performance system for demanding enterprise tasks.
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ has earned its reputation as a dependable, user-friendly NAS with solid performance, thanks to its dual 2.5GbE ports and high sequential throughput. Compared to advanced models like the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro, it offers a simpler setup suitable for home users or small offices prioritizing ease of use over raw power. Its diskless nature means additional drives are needed, and that can increase overall cost. This device is perfect for users who value reliable data management, security, and straightforward setup, even if it means sacrificing some high-end features.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer with up to 565 MB/s
- Dual 2.5GbE ports for fast, redundant networking
- Reliable, well-supported Synology OS
- Three-year limited hardware warranty
Cons:- Requires additional drives, increasing initial investment
- Setup may be complex for absolute beginners
Best for: Home users or small offices seeking reliable, easy-to-setup storage
Not ideal for: Power users or businesses needing virtualization and high throughput
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read/Write:up to 522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
- Diskless:Yes
- Processor:Intel Celeron J4125
Bottom line: This NAS is best for users seeking dependable, straightforward data management with reliable performance.
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage – Intel Quad-Core, 4GB RAM, 2.5GbE, Multimedia Server for Home
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 stands out as the best overall choice for home users needing a balance of power and simplicity. Its Intel quad-core processor and 4GB RAM enable smooth multitasking, especially when streaming 4K media or backing up multiple devices, outperforming basic options like the Synology DS423 in raw performance. The inclusion of 2.5GbE LAN ensures faster data transfers, ideal for media-heavy households. Its quiet operation at 21dB makes it unobtrusive in living spaces, and the tool-free HDD trays simplify upgrades. However, it requires compatible drives to reach maximum capacity and offers only four bays, which could limit future expansion. This model makes the most sense for those who want a multimedia-focused NAS that blends power with ease of use, and some features may need additional setup.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor with 4GB RAM for multitasking
- Supports 4K transcoding and multi-device streaming
- Quiet operation at 21dB, suitable for home environments
- Easy HDD installation with tool-free trays
Cons:- Requires compatible drives for maximum storage capacity
- Limited to 4 bays, restricting large-scale expansion
Best for: Home users seeking a powerful, multimedia-capable NAS with straightforward setup
Not ideal for: Users with extremely large storage needs or enterprise-grade redundancy requirements
- Processor:Intel x86 Quad-Core
- RAM:4GB
- LAN:2.5GbE
- Maximum Storage:120TB (4 x 30TB)
- Noise Level:21dB
- HDD Tray:Tool-free Push-Lock
Bottom line: This NAS is best for home multimedia enthusiasts who want reliable performance without complexity.
TERRAMASTER D4-320 External Hard Drive Enclosure – 4 Bay USB 3.2 Gen2, Plug and Play, Hot Swappable, Diskless
The TERRAMASTER D4-320 is ideal for users who need fast, flexible external storage without the complexity of a full NAS system. Its support for USB 3.2 Gen2 up to 10Gbps outperforms many NAS options in raw data transfer speeds, making it perfect for quick backups or media transfers. The hot-swappable, tool-free drive trays reduce maintenance time, and its compatibility with multiple operating systems broadens usability. Unlike the other NAS choices, it lacks RAID support, so users must manage redundancy separately. It’s best suited for those who want to expand storage externally, but it doesn’t serve as a standalone NAS or offer integrated data protection, limiting its scope.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer up to 10Gbps
- Tool-free, hot-swappable drive trays
- Compatible with multiple OS and interfaces
- Efficient heat dissipation and quiet operation
Cons:- Does not support RAID configurations
- Requires separate hard drives for use
Best for: Power users needing fast external drives and easy maintenance for media or backups
Not ideal for: Users looking for integrated NAS features like remote access or RAID redundancy
- Number of Bays:4
- Interface:USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C
- Supported Drive Types:3.5-inch SATA HDD, 2.5-inch SATA HDD, 2.5-inch SATA SSD
- Maximum Drive Capacity:30TB per drive
- Total Capacity:120TB
- Transfer Speed:Up to 10Gbps
- Hot Swappable:Yes
Bottom line: This external enclosure excels for those who want quick, reliable external storage with minimal fuss, but it’s not a full NAS solution.
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless)
The Synology DS423 is tailored for users prioritizing data security, remote access, and surveillance. Its diskless design offers flexibility to choose drives suited to specific needs, and Synology’s renowned DSM OS simplifies management and backups. It supports remote file sharing, making it a strong choice for small offices or privacy-conscious homes. Its ability to support up to 30 IP cameras with licensing expands its surveillance potential, unlike most other options. Nonetheless, it requires a bit of setup and the drives are sold separately, which can add to initial costs. If your focus is data integrity and private cloud access, this model offers excellent security, but it isn’t optimized for multimedia streaming or high-speed transfers compared to the others.
Pros:- Secure private cloud access and sharing
- Flexible diskless configuration for custom drives
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with licensing
- Robust data backup and protection features
Cons:- Camera licenses sold separately
- Requires setup and technical knowledge
- No included drives
Best for: Small business or home users needing secure data management and surveillance capabilities
Not ideal for: Media-heavy households seeking high-speed 4K streaming or multimedia transcoding
- Number of Bays:4
- Diskless:Yes
- Warranty:2 years
- Camera Support:Up to 30 IP cameras
Bottom line: This NAS is perfect for security-focused users who want private cloud storage and surveillance, but less suited for multimedia streaming.
QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB Type-C Direct Attached Storage (DAS) with Hardware RAID (Diskless)
The QNAP TR-004 excels for users who need external storage with flexible RAID options. Its support for RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD gives control over redundancy and performance, making it ideal for expanding a QNAP NAS system or standalone storage. Its lockable drive bays add a layer of security in shared environments, and the USB Type-C connectivity ensures fast data transfer. Compared to the other options, it’s limited to external drives and can’t function as a standalone NAS, which might be a drawback for those seeking integrated network features. It’s best suited for users who already have a NAS ecosystem or need high-performance external drives, but not for total network solutions.
Pros:- Supports multiple RAID levels for data protection
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Includes lockable drive bays for physical security
- Flexible external storage expansion
Cons:- Limited to external storage functions — no NAS capabilities
- Cannot be used as a combined storage pool with NAS
Best for: Power users expanding existing NAS setups or needing external RAID storage
Not ideal for: Users seeking a standalone NAS or simple external backup drive without RAID configurations
- Number of Bays:4
- Drive Interface:SATA 3Gb/s
- Connectivity:USB Type-C
- Supported RAID Levels:RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Drive Type:Diskless
Bottom line: This external RAID enclosure is ideal for advanced users needing secure, flexible expansion, but it does not replace a full NAS system.
How We Picked
In selecting these NAS 4-bay options, I prioritized a combination of performance, usability, and value. I examined hardware specs such as CPU power, RAM capacity, and network interfaces, since these directly affect data transfer speeds and multitasking. Ease of setup and management was also key, especially for users with limited technical experience. Durability and build quality influenced longevity, while price-to-feature ratio helped identify the best overall value. Products were ranked based on how well they meet diverse user needs—ranging from home users to small offices—while maintaining reliable performance and future-proofing potential.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best NAS 4 Bay
Choosing the right NAS 4 bay involves understanding your current needs and future plans. Consider how much data you’ll store, whether you need fast access over a network, and if you want features like media streaming or remote access. A well-chosen NAS can serve as a centralized hub for backups, media, and collaboration, but making the wrong choice can lead to bottlenecks or costly upgrades. Think about your technical comfort level, as some models require more manual setup and maintenance than others. Balancing these factors ensures you select a device that offers both immediate value and longevity.Performance and Hardware
Look for a NAS with a capable CPU and sufficient RAM—these determine how smoothly your system handles multiple tasks and large files. High-performance models with Intel or AMD processors deliver faster data processing and better multitasking. However, more powerful hardware often comes with a higher price tag and increased power consumption. For lighter use, a less powerful CPU may suffice, but consider future needs to avoid bottlenecks as your data grows.
Networking Capabilities
Fast network interfaces like 10GbE or 2.5GbE are increasingly common and can dramatically reduce data transfer times, especially for large multimedia files. Ensure your existing network infrastructure supports these speeds to fully benefit. Cheaper models might only offer standard Gigabit Ethernet, which is sufficient for basic file sharing but less ideal for high-bandwidth tasks. Prioritize models that match your current network setup or plan for future upgrades.
Ease of Use and Software
User-friendly interfaces and reliable software ecosystems are vital, particularly if you’re new to NAS. Brands like Synology and QNAP are known for intuitive management tools and comprehensive app stores. Conversely, more technical models may require command-line setup and manual updates, increasing complexity. Consider your comfort level and whether you prefer plug-and-play solutions or are willing to handle more detailed configuration.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
Check if the NAS supports additional drives or upgrades, such as adding RAM or connecting external devices. Some models also support SSD caching, which can boost performance for frequently accessed data. Think about your storage needs over the next few years; a model with more flexible expansion options may cost more upfront but save money later. Compatibility with different drive types and sizes is also an important factor.
Build Quality and Reliability
Durability and effective cooling are essential for a device that stays powered on continuously. Look for metal chassis and well-designed ventilation to prevent overheating. A poorly built NAS risks hardware failure and data loss, especially in warm environments or during extended use. Investing in a reliable model can pay off through lower maintenance costs and longer lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a diskless NAS or one with drives included?
Choosing between diskless and pre-installed models depends on your technical experience and upgrade plans. Diskless NAS units offer flexibility to select your own drives, which can be more cost-effective and tailored to your needs. However, they require extra setup and compatibility checks. Pre-installed or bundled models simplify the process but often come with higher initial costs and limited upgrade options. Consider your comfort level and future expansion plans when making this choice.
Is a 10GbE port worth it for home use?
For most home users, a 10GbE port offers minimal benefits unless dealing with very large files like 4K videos or performing frequent backups. Upgrading your network to support these speeds can be costly and may require new switches and cabling. If your current network is Gigabit Ethernet, investing in a NAS with faster ports might be unnecessary. However, for small offices or media enthusiasts, 10GbE can significantly reduce transfer times and improve workflow.
How much RAM do I really need in a NAS?
RAM capacity influences multitasking and the ability to run additional apps or services smoothly. For basic file storage and backups, 2-4GB is often sufficient. If you plan to run media servers, virtual machines, or multiple users simultaneously, 8GB or more provides a smoother experience. Keep in mind that some models allow RAM upgrades, so you can start small and expand as your needs grow.
Can I upgrade the drives later if I choose a diskless NAS?
Yes, most diskless NAS units support adding drives later, provided the drives are compatible with the bays and hardware specifications. This flexibility allows you to start with smaller drives and expand over time, reducing initial costs. Be aware that certain models might have limitations on drive sizes or the number of drives you can add, so check compatibility before purchasing. Upgrading drives is straightforward in most cases but requires some downtime during installation.
What should I look for in a NAS if I want to use it as a media server?
For media streaming, prioritize a NAS with a powerful CPU, at least 4GB of RAM, and hardware transcoding capabilities if possible. Support for 4K video output via HDMI or streaming apps also enhances media use. A user-friendly interface and a large app ecosystem for media management, like Plex or Kodi, are beneficial. Good network speeds and reliable hardware ensure smooth playback and quick access to large media files.
