If you’re seeking a reliable 4-bay NAS for video editing in 2026, you’ll want a device that balances power, expandability, and ease of use. The TERRAMASTER F4-425 stands out for its robust Intel x86 processor and smooth 4K transcoding, making it perfect for home media and light editing. Meanwhile, the Synology DS925+ offers high-speed transfers and versatile features tailored for both storage and workflow management, though it requires additional drives. For demanding professional environments, the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro provides exceptional power with its Core i3 CPU and extensive expandability, at a higher price point. These three choices reflect different priorities: cost-efficiency, speed, and raw performance, with tradeoffs in complexity, cost, and initial setup.
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Key Takeaways
- Powerful processors like Intel x86 and Core i3 enhance multitasking and 4K editing capabilities.
- Expandability varies, with premium models supporting large storage and virtualization, suitable for professionals.
- Network connectivity options, such as dual 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports, significantly impact data transfer speeds.
- Ease of setup and use differs; some models are more beginner-friendly, others geared toward tech-savvy users.
- Cost range spans from affordable, home-oriented solutions to high-end professional systems for enterprise workflows.
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home and Light Professional Use | Brand: TERRAMASTER | Model Number: F4-425 | Processor: Intel x86 quad-core | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best for High-Speed Data Transfers and Versatility | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Sequential Read/Write Throughput: 522/565 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server |  | Best for Content Creators and Small Businesses | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | Memory: 4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB | Storage Support: SATA HDD/SSD, NVMe SSD cache | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users |  | Best for Demanding Workflows and Professional Use | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U | RAM: 8GB DDR5, expandable to 96GB | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS1525+ Video Editing & Production Server – Scale to 300TB, 10GbE Ready & Multi-User Workflows |  | Best for Large Media Libraries and Collaborative Workflows | Brand: Synology | Model: DS1525+ | Number of Bays: 5 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 4 bay NAS for video editing | Network Ports | Processor | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | 2.5GbE | Intel x86 quad-core | 2 Years |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | 2 x 2.5GbE | — | 3 years |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | 2 x 5GbE | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | 10GbE + 2.5GbE | Intel Core i3-1315U | — |
| Synology DS1525+ Video Editing | — | — | 3 years |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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 flexibility, thanks to its Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM. It handles multitasking, including 4K transcoding, with ease, making it ideal for home media servers or small editing setups. Its hardware-level 4K decoding outperforms many competitors in real-time media processing. Compared with other options, it provides a quiet operation at 21dB, perfect for living spaces. However, it’s diskless, requiring additional drives, and the 4GB RAM may limit heavy multi-user workflows or large-scale editing projects. Still, its support for up to 120TB and flexible RAID options make it a top pick for users balancing performance and affordability.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor handles multitasking and 4K transcoding smoothly.
- Supports up to 120TB storage with flexible RAID options for data redundancy.
- Quiet operation at 21dB makes it suitable for home environments.
- Mobile app control simplifies setup and remote access.
Cons:- No included drives; additional purchase required.
- Customer reviews reveal mixed feedback, possibly regarding support or performance issues.
- Limited to 4GB RAM, which may be insufficient for demanding workflows.
Best for: Home editors and small-scale content creators needing reliable media storage and transcoding.
Not ideal for: Large professional teams or users needing extensive virtualization or high RAM capacities.
- Brand:TERRAMASTER
- Model Number:F4-425
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Maximum Storage:120TB
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Noise Level:21dB
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“A versatile, budget-conscious choice for home and light professional video editing, balancing power and quiet operation.”
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ is a reliable choice, especially for users prioritizing transfer speeds and ecosystem integrations. Its dual 2.5GbE ports enable fast network connectivity, supporting high-throughput workflows essential for editing 4K footage. This device excels in data management, virtualization, and surveillance features, making it a flexible option for those who want a multi-purpose storage solution. However, being diskless, it demands additional drives, and its setup can be complex for newcomers. Compared with the more powerful options, the DS925+ is slightly less geared toward raw editing performance but remains an excellent choice for those who need dependable transfer speeds and expandability in a professional environment.
Pros:- High data transfer speeds with dual 2.5GbE ports.
- Supports virtualization and surveillance features for expanded uses.
- Reliable, well-supported OS with intuitive management tools.
Cons:- Requires additional drives, adding to initial cost.
- Setup may be complex for users unfamiliar with NAS configurations.
- Less emphasis on hardware transcoding for media workflows.
Best for: Creative professionals needing quick data access and versatile storage options.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users looking for an all-in-one out-of-the-box editing solution.
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read/Write Throughput:522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Ideal for professionals seeking fast network performance and versatile storage, though setup complexity is a consideration.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers a high-performance platform with dual 5GbE ports and support for hybrid storage involving SATA HDD/SSD and NVMe SSD cache. Its Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core CPU provides ample power for editing 4K footage, while HDMI output enables direct media streaming. The expandable RAM up to 16GB allows for demanding workflows, especially when running multiple applications or virtualization. It stands out for its media-focused features, but the initial setup might challenge less experienced users, and the system’s higher cost could be prohibitive for casual editors. Compared with others, it delivers a more media-centric experience, ideal for professionals needing fast throughput and multimedia capabilities.
Pros:- High-speed dual 5GbE ports for fast data transfer.
- Supports hybrid storage with multiple SSD and HDD options.
- HDMI output enables direct media playback and streaming.
- Expandable RAM for demanding editing workflows.
Cons:- No included hard drives; setup is complex.
- Higher price point compared to simpler NAS units.
- Limited out-of-the-box RAM, requiring upgrades for intensive tasks.
Best for: Content creators and small teams requiring media streaming and hybrid storage.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious hobbyists or users seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Memory:4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB
- Storage Support:SATA HDD/SSD, NVMe SSD cache
- Number of M.2 Slots:4
- Network Ports:2 x 5GbE
- HDMI Output:Yes
- Maximum RAM:16 GB
Our verdict“A powerful, media-optimized NAS perfect for professional creators needing high throughput and multimedia features.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro stands out for its powerful Intel Core i3-1315U processor, 8GB DDR5 RAM (expandable to 96GB), and support for Docker and virtual machines. It features 10GbE + 2.5GbE ports, enabling ultra-fast data transfer, essential for large media projects. Its capacity for up to 144TB and support for complex RAID configurations make it suitable for demanding workflows, including enterprise-level video editing and server virtualization. The setup can be challenging for less technical users due to its advanced features, and the high hardware cost reflects its professional-grade capabilities. Compared to consumer-focused NAS, this device prioritizes raw power and expandability, ideal for those with technical expertise and professional needs.
Pros:- High-performance hardware with Intel Core i3 CPU.
- Massive storage capacity and extensive RAM support.
- Supports Docker, virtual machines, and advanced security features.
- Supports complex RAID configurations for data redundancy.
Cons:- Requires significant technical knowledge for setup.
- High cost may be a barrier for small-scale users.
- Overkill for simple media storage or casual editing.
Best for: Power users, enterprise video editors, and workflows requiring virtualization and high throughput.
Not ideal for: Casual or home users seeking simple media storage solutions.
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- RAM:8GB DDR5, expandable to 96GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB
- Supported RAID:0, 1, 5, 10
- Network Ports:10GbE + 2.5GbE
- Supported Technologies:Docker, Virtual Machines
- Security Features:Data Vault encryption, user permission controls
Our verdict“A top-tier NAS for demanding workflows, best suited for professionals and enterprise environments with technical expertise.”
Synology DS1525+ Video Editing & Production Server – Scale to 300TB, 10GbE Ready & Multi-User Workflows
The Synology DS1525+ is designed for professional video editing teams needing scalable storage and fast network connectivity. Its support for up to 300TB of storage with expansion, combined with 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports, makes it ideal for handling large 4K and 8K footage in multi-user environments. It excels in media management, backup, and collaborative workflows, making it a favorite for studios and production houses. However, its setup and expansion require some technical skill, and the initial investment can be substantial. Compared to smaller NAS units, the DS1525+ prioritizes scalability and multi-user workflows, which come at a higher complexity and cost.
Pros:- High transfer speeds with over 1,180 MB/s for editing large files.
- Supports up to 300TB of storage with expansion units.
- Ideal for multi-user workflows and media management.
- Reliable Synology ecosystem with rich software features.
Cons:- Requires technical expertise for setup and expansion.
- Higher initial cost may be prohibitive for small teams.
- Primarily aimed at professional environments, not casual users.
Best for: Professional video editing teams and media production facilities.
Not ideal for: Single users or small hobbyists with modest storage needs.
- Brand:Synology
- Model:DS1525+
- Number of Bays:5
- Storage Capacity:Supports up to 300TB with expansion
- Network:10GbE and 2.5GbE
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“A scalable, high-performance NAS tailored for professional media teams managing large, collaborative projects.”
How We Picked
Our selection process centered on identifying 4-bay NAS devices that excel specifically for video editing workflows in 2026. We prioritized processors powerful enough to handle 4K or higher resolution footage, including Intel x86 and Core i3 options. Storage flexibility, network speeds, and expandability were key, especially for managing large media files. We also considered ease of use, noise levels, and features like hardware transcoding, HDMI output, and virtualization support. Devices were chosen to reflect a spectrum of user needs—from home editors to professional production teams—while balancing cost, performance, and complexity.
| 4 bay NAS for video editing | Processor |
|---|---|
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | Intel x86 quad-core |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | Intel Core i3-1315U |
| Synology DS1525+ Video Editing | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 4 Bay NAS For Video Editing
Choosing the best 4-bay NAS for video editing in 2026 hinges on understanding your workflow needs, budget, and technical skills. In general, you’ll want a device with a powerful processor—preferably Intel x86 or Core i3—for handling high-resolution footage smoothly. Storage capacity and expandability are vital, especially if you’re working with large media files or collaborating across teams. Network connectivity, such as dual 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports, significantly affects data transfer speeds, impacting editing performance. Ease of setup varies, so assess whether you prefer a plug-and-play solution or are comfortable with more complex configurations. Consider features like hardware transcoding, HDMI output, virtualization, and security—these can elevate your editing workflow but may add cost and complexity.Processor Power and Performance
The processor is the heart of your NAS, determining how well it can handle real-time 4K transcoding, multi-user access, and other demanding tasks. Models with Intel x86 or Core i3 CPUs provide the necessary horsepower for smooth editing and media playback. Cheaper or less powerful processors may struggle with high-res footage or multitasking, leading to delays and frustration. For professional workflows, investing in a device with a quad-core or higher CPU is advisable, even if it costs more upfront.
Storage Capacity and Expandability
Video projects can quickly fill storage, so choosing a NAS with ample capacity and the ability to expand is essential. Four bays typically support 4 to 20TB drives, but high-end models can scale up to 300TB with expansion units. Think about your current needs and future growth—more bays and higher maximum capacities reduce the need for frequent upgrades. RAID support ensures data protection, an important consideration for valuable media assets.
Network Connectivity and Speed
Fast network ports like 2.5GbE or 10GbE can drastically cut down transfer times, making editing over network much more seamless. For multi-user environments or editing massive files, these ports prevent bottlenecks. If your budget allows, prioritize devices with dual or multi-port configurations to enable link aggregation or redundancy, ensuring stable, high-speed access for multiple users.
Ease of Use and Setup
Some NAS units are designed for beginners, featuring intuitive interfaces and mobile app controls. Others, especially professional-grade models, require more technical knowledge to set up and optimize. Consider your comfort level—if you’re new to NAS systems, a device like the Synology DS925+ offers user-friendly management. For tech-savvy users needing advanced features, devices like the UGREEN DXP4800 Pro provide extensive customization but demand a steeper learning curve.
Additional Features
Features like hardware transcoding, HDMI output, virtualization support, and security enhancements can enhance your editing setup. Hardware transcoding allows real-time media conversion, beneficial when working with high-res footage. HDMI output can connect directly to monitors or media devices for instant playback. Virtualization support enables running editing environments or servers directly on your NAS, ideal for collaborative or enterprise workflows. These extras often come with higher costs and setup complexity, so evaluate whether they align with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of choosing a 4-bay NAS for video editing?
The primary advantage of a 4-bay NAS is its balance between storage capacity and cost, allowing for flexible RAID configurations for redundancy and performance. It offers enough bays to support multiple large drives, making it suitable for editing workflows that require fast access to large media files while maintaining data security. Compared with smaller NAS units, 4-bay models provide greater scalability and performance, especially when equipped with high-speed network ports and powerful processors.
How important is network speed for video editing on NAS?
Network speed is critical because editing often involves transferring large files like 4K or 8K footage. Faster ports such as 2.5GbE or 10GbE significantly reduce transfer times, enabling smoother editing experiences over the network. If multiple users access media simultaneously, high-speed connectivity prevents bottlenecks, ensuring efficient collaboration. In environments where file transfer speed is essential, prioritizing NAS with advanced network options becomes a key decision factor.
Are more expensive NAS devices worth the investment for hobbyists?
For hobbyists or casual editors, higher-priced professional models may offer features that go beyond simple media storage—such as virtualization, extensive expandability, or enterprise-grade security—that might not be necessary. A mid-range or budget model with decent processing power and sufficient storage can often meet their needs effectively. Investing in a high-end NAS makes more sense if you plan to scale up your editing projects, need high transfer speeds, or work collaboratively with a team.
What role does hardware transcoding play in a NAS for video editing?
Hardware transcoding allows real-time conversion of media files into formats suitable for editing or playback, significantly reducing lag and improving workflow fluidity. It is especially beneficial when working with high-resolution footage on devices with limited processing power. Not all NAS units support hardware transcoding—this feature becomes a deciding factor if you frequently work with 4K or higher resolutions and need immediate playback or streaming without delays.
How much should I budget for a NAS suitable for professional video editing?
Professional-grade NAS devices with high-performance processors, large storage capacities, and advanced features typically start around $1,000 and can go well beyond $3,000 for top-tier models. If your workflow involves large media libraries, multi-user collaboration, virtualization, and high-speed networking, investing in a higher-end device is justified. For smaller-scale or hobbyist use, more affordable options in the $500 to $1,000 range can provide sufficient performance without overextending your budget.
Conclusion
For home editors or hobbyists, the TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a compelling mix of power, affordability, and quiet operation. Small studios or professionals needing fast transfers and scalability should consider the Synology DS925+ for its balance of speed and user-friendly features. Larger teams or demanding workflows will benefit most from the UGREEN DXP4800 Pro or the Synology DS1525+, which provide high throughput, extensive expansion, and advanced management tools. Ultimately, your choice depends on your technical comfort, media volume, and budget—matching these to the right NAS ensures smooth, efficient video editing in 2026.
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