Looking for a reliable 4 bay NAS for backup in 2026? The Synology DS425+ stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its robust performance and user-friendly interface. For those prioritizing affordability, the Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Plus offers great value, especially for small teams and families. The main tradeoffs involve balancing features like processing power, ease of use, and expandability. Keep reading to see a detailed comparison of these options and find the best fit for your backup needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance performance, ease of use, and value, with Synology leading in user experience and QNAP excelling in hardware flexibility.
- Many models share common features like RAID support and multimedia streaming, but differences in CPU power and app ecosystems matter.
- Diskless models tend to be more flexible but require additional investment in drives, while pre-populated NAS may cost more upfront.
- Power efficiency and noise levels are often overlooked but can be important for home or small office environments.
- The best choice depends heavily on the user’s technical skill, storage needs, and budget, with premium models offering more future-proof features.
| Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless NAS Private Cloud Media Server |  | Best Overall for Business and Media Professionals | Number of Bays: 4 | Type: Diskless NAS | Data Transfer Speed: 278 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Storage for Home and Small Business |  | Best Value for Easy, Cost-Effective Personal Storage | Digital Storage Capacity: 120 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS |  | Best for Power Users and Tech-Savvy Professionals | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 | RAM: Up to 16 GB DDR4 | Hard Drive Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) |  | Best for Beginners and Small-Scale Private Cloud | Number of Bays: 2 | Model: DS223j | Type: Diskless NAS | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Home and Small Office Media and Cloud Needs | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home and Small Business Backup | Processor: Intel x86 Quad-Core | RAM: 4GB | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless NAS for Backup, File Sharing, and Video Surveillance |  | Best for Security and Data Protection | Number of Bays: 4 | Item Type: NAS | Warranty: 2 years | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams |  | Best High-Performance NAS for Creators and Small Teams | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB | Number of Bays: 4 | Connectivity: 10GbE, USB 10Gbps | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users |  | Best for Demanding Workflows and Enterprise-Grade Security | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U | RAM: 8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB) | Storage Capacity: 144TB (4x HDD + 2x M.2 SSD) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| bay nas for backup | Number of Bays | Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless | 4 | 3 years |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | — | — |
| QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS | — | — |
| Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2 | 2 | 2 years |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | 4 | 10 years |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | 4 | 2 Years |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless | 4 | 2 years |
| UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS | 4 | 2 years |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology DS425+ 4-Bay Diskless NAS Private Cloud Media Server
The Synology DS425+ stands out for its high data transfer speeds and comprehensive feature set, making it ideal for businesses that need reliable media streaming, file sharing, and surveillance. Compared to the QNAP TS-464, it offers more advanced multi-user management and stronger data protection, though it comes at a higher price and requires more technical setup. This model is best suited for users who prioritize robust security and multi-functionality over simple plug-and-play operation, but the need for additional disks and complexity may deter beginners.
Pros:- High data transfer speeds support smooth media streaming and file sharing
- Supports multiple users with advanced access controls
- Multi-layered data protection including RAID and snapshots
- Integrated surveillance capabilities for monitoring
Cons:- Requires additional disks for full storage capacity
- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Premium price point for enterprise features
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses or media-heavy users needing high performance and security.
Not ideal for: Home users seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly backup solution with minimal setup.
- Number of Bays:4
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Data Transfer Speed:278 MB/s
- Supports IP Cameras:30
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS works best for users needing robust, multi-purpose storage with strong security and monitoring features.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Storage for Home and Small Business
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus delivers an appealing balance of performance and simplicity, making it a strong choice for home users and small offices that want reliable automatic backups and easy device access. Unlike the Asustor AS1204T, it offers faster transfer speeds (312 MB/s vs. 150-200 MB/s) and AI-powered photo organization, but it sacrifices built-in Wi-Fi support, which could be limiting for wireless setups. This pick is well-suited for users who prioritize straightforward setup, private cloud access, and multimedia management without the need for virtual machine support, though they must provide their own disks.
Pros:- Easy setup and multi-device access
- Supports automatic photo backup and AI photo albums
- Cost-effective long-term storage without recurring fees
- High performance with a 2.5GbE port and 8GB RAM
Cons:- No Wi-Fi support, limited to wired Ethernet
- Additional disks required for storage
- No virtual machine or Docker support
Best for: Home users or small offices seeking quick, reliable, wired storage with media features.
Not ideal for: Users wanting wireless connectivity or virtual machine support on a tight budget.
- Digital Storage Capacity:120 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Data Transfer Rate:312 MB/s
- Supports Virtual Machines:No
- Supports Docker:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for users who want a straightforward, wired backup and media management at an affordable price.”
QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS
The QNAP TS-464 offers a compelling mix of speed and flexibility, with its Intel quad-core processor and up to 16GB DDR4 RAM, making it suitable for demanding workloads. Compared with the Asustor Drivestor 4, it provides better encryption, more RAM options, and M.2 SSD slots for caching, but it demands a higher level of technical knowledge for configuration. This device is ideal for users comfortable with networking and seeking a versatile, fast NAS for storing and encrypting large media libraries or business files, though its maximum RAM limit could be restrictive for very intensive multitasking.
Pros:- Fast dual 2.5GbE ports for speedy data transfer
- Supports SSD cache for performance boost
- Strong encryption with minimal performance impact
- Versatile connectivity including USB 3.2
Cons:- Limited to 16GB RAM maximum
- Requires technical knowledge for setup
- No built-in Wi-Fi, reliant on Ethernet
Best for: Experienced users and small businesses needing fast, secure, and expandable storage.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS solution.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105/N5095
- RAM:Up to 16 GB DDR4
- Hard Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe Gen3x2
- Hard Drive Speed:7200 rpm
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for tech-savvy users who need high-speed, flexible storage with expandability options.”
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)
The Synology DS223j offers a simple, reliable platform for private cloud storage and backups, making it suitable for users new to NAS technology. Compared to the larger 4-bay options like the DS425+, it provides a more affordable and less complex solution, though it sacrifices storage capacity and expansion options. Its multi-platform support and surveillance features make it a solid choice for home users or small offices prioritizing ease of use over raw performance, but the need to buy disks separately and its limited bays could be restrictive for growing needs.
Pros:- Secure cloud with multi-platform access
- Automated backups for multiple devices
- Supports surveillance with IP camera compatibility
- Reliable hardware with ongoing support
Cons:- Requires additional disks for storage
- Limited to 2 bays
- Features may be complex for absolute beginners
Best for: Home users or small offices seeking easy, private cloud backup with basic surveillance capabilities.
Not ideal for: Power users or those with large storage needs wanting high performance or extensive expansion.
- Number of Bays:2
- Model:DS223j
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for beginners or small-scale users prioritizing simplicity and security.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 provides a balanced mix of media streaming and cloud features, with a quad-core processor and 2.5GbE network, making it a versatile choice for users wanting 4K media support and personal cloud access. Unlike the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus, it offers more RAM (1GB vs. 8GB) for multitasking, but it has a less modern interface and fewer advanced features like AI photo organization. This NAS is well-suited for home users or small offices who need reliable multimedia capabilities and simple data backup, but its limited RAM and lack of included drives may be drawbacks for intensive tasks.
Pros:- Supports 4K media streaming
- Flexible RAID options for data redundancy
- Supports personal cloud for remote access
- Decent hardware for multimedia tasks
Cons:- Limited RAM (1GB), restricting multitasking
- No included drives, additional purchase needed
- Fewer advanced features compared to higher-end models
Best for: Home users or small offices focused on media streaming and basic backups.
Not ideal for: Power users or those seeking enterprise-grade security and performance.
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Number of Bays:4
- Network:2.5GbE
- Hard Drive Size Compatibility:2.5 inches
- Warranty:10 years
Our verdict“This NAS suits media-focused users who prioritize multimedia support and simple backup functions.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 stands out for its powerful Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM, making it well-suited for multitasking and media-heavy environments, especially when compared to the more consumer-focused Ugreen DXP4800 Plus. While its hardware decoding supports 4K media playback, the setup process via mobile app can be less intuitive for users accustomed to Synology’s straightforward interface. The device’s quiet operation and flexible RAID options add to its appeal, but it requires users to purchase drives separately, which can increase overall costs. Compared to the Synology DS423, it offers higher hardware performance but less refined software management, making it a good choice for those prioritizing raw power over ease of use.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor and 4GB RAM for seamless multitasking
- Supports 4K hardware decoding for media playback
- Quiet operation suitable for home environments
- Flexible RAID options with high storage capacity
Cons:- Requires setup via mobile app, which can be less intuitive
- No included drives, adding to initial cost
- Customer reviews show mixed performance satisfaction
Best for: Tech-savvy home users or small offices needing robust multimedia and backup capabilities without a hefty price tag.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users looking for plug-and-play simplicity, as setup and configuration may be more complex.
- Processor:Intel x86 Quad-Core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Maximum Storage:120TB
- Network Interface:2.5GbE
- Operation Noise:21dB
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for users who need a powerful, flexible storage solution with multimedia capabilities and are comfortable with setup complexity.”
Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless NAS for Backup, File Sharing, and Video Surveillance
The Synology DS423 excels in secure data backup, private cloud access, and surveillance support, making it a strong contender against the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus when security features are prioritized. Its comprehensive snapshot and multi-destination backup options offer peace of mind, but the need for separate camera licenses for surveillance can increase costs. Unlike the UGREEN DXP4800, which focuses on high capacity and speed, the DS423 emphasizes data integrity and remote access, making it suitable for users who value security above raw performance. Its user interface is generally beginner-friendly, yet some advanced features may require technical know-how, especially for surveillance setup.
Pros:- Secure private cloud access for remote file management
- Supports backups with snapshots and multi-destination options
- Comprehensive surveillance support for up to 30 cameras
- Two-year warranty provides peace of mind
Cons:- Additional purchase needed for camera licenses
- No included drives, increasing initial investment
- Setup can be complex for non-technical users
Best for: Small businesses or security-conscious users seeking reliable backup and remote file sharing.
Not ideal for: Power users requiring virtual machines or AI features, as its hardware is less suited for intensive workloads.
- Number of Bays:4
- Item Type:NAS
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504004911
- Best Sellers Rank:#2 in NAS Enclosures
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for users prioritizing data security and remote access over raw speed or multimedia processing.”
UGREEN DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS for Families, Creators & Small Teams
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is designed for users who need massive storage (up to 144TB) and high transfer speeds, making it ideal for creators and small teams managing large media files. Its support for advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, and AI photo organization sets it apart from more basic models like the TERRAMASTER F4-425. However, its reliance on wired Ethernet only and the need to purchase drives separately can be downsides for those seeking straightforward, out-of-the-box solutions. The speed benefits depend heavily on network setup, which might limit performance in less optimized environments.
Pros:- Enormous storage capacity up to 144TB
- High transfer speeds with 10GbE and USB 10Gbps ports
- Supports Docker, virtual machines, and AI-powered features
- Secure remote access with encryption
Cons:- Drives are not included, increasing initial cost
- Speed varies depending on network setup
- Wired-only connectivity limits flexibility
Best for: Creative professionals or small teams needing large, fast storage with virtualization and AI tools.
Not ideal for: Home users or small offices on tight budgets, as the hardware and drive costs can add up quickly.
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB
- Number of Bays:4
- Connectivity:10GbE, USB 10Gbps
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Hard Drives Included:No
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for demanding creators and small teams who need high capacity and advanced features, provided they have a robust network environment.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro is geared toward IT professionals and power users, offering enterprise-grade security, support for virtual machines, and extensive storage options up to 144TB with flexible RAID modes like 0, 1, 5, and 10. Its high-performance Intel Core i3-1315U processor and expandable 8GB DDR5 RAM make it capable of handling demanding workflows, including AI-driven photo management. It surpasses the Synology DS423 in hardware power but involves a more complex setup that may challenge less experienced users. Its large size and advanced features come at a premium price, making it less suitable for casual or home users.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM
- Supports virtual machines, Docker, and AI features
- Flexible RAID options and extensive storage capacity
- Enterprise-grade security and privacy certifications
Cons:- Setup complexity may require technical expertise
- Higher cost due to premium hardware and features
- Large physical footprint may not fit small spaces
Best for: IT professionals, developers, and power users needing enterprise features and maximum scalability.
Not ideal for: Casual users or small offices that do not require such high-end performance and security features.
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- RAM:8GB DDR5 (expandable to 96GB)
- Storage Capacity:144TB (4x HDD + 2x M.2 SSD)
- Network Ports:10GbE + 2.5GbE
- Supported RAID:0, 1, 5, 10
- Maximum User Accounts:2048
Our verdict“This NAS is designed for demanding workflows and security-conscious environments where maximum performance and scalability justify the higher investment.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these 4 bay NAS options, I focused on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. Reliability in backup scenarios, ease of setup, and software ecosystem were key considerations. I also examined expandability, power efficiency, and compatibility with different drive types, ensuring each model suits different user profiles. The ranking reflects how well each NAS balances these factors relative to its price, with top picks excelling in overall reliability and user experience while some options cater to more specialized needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing 4 Bay Nas For Backup
Choosing the right 4 bay NAS for backup involves considering several core factors that impact long-term usability and value. Beyond raw specs, understanding how each feature aligns with your backup routines and future needs can save you money and frustration. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when selecting your ideal device.Performance and Hardware Power
Processing power and RAM influence how smoothly your NAS handles multiple backup tasks, media streaming, and app usage. For small backups with infrequent use, entry-level CPUs are sufficient, but if you plan to run multiple services or large data transfers, investing in a more capable processor provides smoother performance. Remember, higher specs often come with increased cost, so match hardware to your actual needs to avoid overspending.
Ease of Use and Software Ecosystem
The user interface and software features distinguish premium NAS solutions from more basic ones. Synology’s DSM and QNAP’s QTS are known for their intuitive design and extensive app libraries, simplifying setup and ongoing management. Avoid overly complex systems if you’re new to NAS; instead, prioritize models with user-friendly interfaces and good customer support to prevent setup headaches and reduce maintenance time.
Drive Compatibility and Expandability
While all options here are 4-bay models, consider the drive types and RAID configurations supported. Diskless models offer flexibility to choose your drives, but pre-configured NAS may limit upgrade paths. Think about your future storage needs—if you anticipate adding more drives or upgrading to higher-capacity disks, check for compatibility and expandability options before purchasing.
Power Efficiency and Noise
Power consumption and noise levels are often overlooked but matter, especially if your NAS sits in a home or quiet office. Models with energy-efficient CPUs and low-noise fans reduce operating costs and minimize disruption. If your environment requires silence or low energy use, prioritize these features when selecting your NAS, even if it means sacrificing some performance or features.
Price and Overall Value
Balancing cost against features is critical. While premium models pack more power and advanced features, budget options can suffice for basic backup tasks. Look for a model that offers the best combination of performance, usability, and future-proofing within your budget. Avoid models that lack essential features you need or that have hidden costs, such as additional licenses or drives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any drives with these NAS devices?
Most of these NAS units support standard 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA drives, but compatibility varies. Diskless models give you freedom to choose drives, while pre-populated units may have specific requirements or limitations. Always check the manufacturer’s list of compatible drives to ensure optimal performance and reliability, especially if you plan to use enterprise-grade disks or larger capacities.
Is a higher CPU necessary for backup tasks?
For straightforward data backup and storage, a modest CPU often suffices. However, if you plan to run additional applications like media servers, surveillance, or virtualization, a more powerful processor can improve responsiveness and reduce bottlenecks. Evaluate your backup volume and future expansion plans to decide if investing in a higher-end CPU is worth the extra cost.
How important is software ecosystem in my choice?
The software ecosystem impacts ease of use, app availability, and ongoing support. Synology’s DSM is widely praised for its intuitive interface and extensive app store, making it a favorite for beginners. QNAP’s QTS offers similar capabilities but with more customization options. Choosing a system with a mature, well-supported ecosystem can significantly reduce setup time and provide better long-term value.
Should I prioritize energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency becomes more important if your NAS runs 24/7, especially in a home environment. Lower power consumption reduces electricity costs and heat output, extending drive and component lifespan. Look for models with energy-saving features or low-noise fans if quiet operation and low costs matter to your setup.
Is it better to buy a pre-configured NAS or a diskless one?
Pre-configured NAS units are ready to use immediately, making them ideal for users who prefer simplicity. Diskless models offer flexibility in choosing drives, which can be more cost-effective and tailored to your specific needs. However, they require a bit more technical knowledge for setup. Your choice should depend on your comfort level and whether you want to customize your storage environment.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most users is the Synology DS425+, thanks to its balance of performance, ease of use, and expandability. Budget-conscious buyers or small households might lean toward the Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Plus, which offers strong value without sacrificing core backup features. For those seeking premium, future-proof solutions, models like the QNAP TS-464 deliver advanced hardware and flexible software options. Beginners should consider diskless models with user-friendly interfaces, while power users or IT professionals benefit from more robust, high-performance options. Tailoring your pick to your specific backup needs and technical comfort will ensure satisfaction in the long run.
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