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In this guide
A 4 Bay NAS provides centralized storage for home media, office files, and personal backups. These devices offer RAID support, remote access, and private cloud capabilities without recurring subscription fees.
We analyzed ten leading models based on processor power, network speed, software ecosystem, and expansion options. Each unit was evaluated for its ability to handle multitasking, media streaming, and data protection features effectively.
Every pick includes detailed specs, pros, cons, and real-world use cases. Note that prices and availability change frequently, so check current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best value today.
Top 3 Picks for Best 4 Bay NAS
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Top 10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights key differences across all ten models. Focus on processor type, RAM capacity, network ports, and operating system features to match your specific workload needs.
1. Synology DS425+ – Best Overall 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS425+ stands out as a reliable choice for teams and media users needing robust software. It supports high-speed transfers and offers granular access controls for secure file sharing across large offices.
Pros
- Reliable DSM software ecosystem
- Excellent mobile apps
- Strong data protection features
- Efficient power consumption
- Great community support
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited hardware specs vs others
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Its centralized repository allows secure storage of client files and media assets with audit logs. The multi-layered data protection combines RAID redundancy with snapshot technology to prevent data loss from ransomware or accidental deletion.
While the hardware may not match the raw power of some competitors, the stability and ease of use justify the investment. Synology's dedicated technical account management ensures business-critical environments stay running smoothly.
Buy this if you value software reliability and security over raw hardware specs. It is ideal for small businesses needing a secure private cloud with professional surveillance and file sharing capabilities.
Streamlined Team Productivity
Share large files and stream media across your office with speeds up to 278 MB/s. It supports concurrent access from ten or more users without performance bottlenecks.
Enterprise-Grade Data Safety
Combine RAID redundancy, automated backups, and snapshot technology to prevent data loss from any cause. Audit logs help track access and modifications for compliance needs.
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2. UGREEN DXP4800 Pro – Best Premium 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN DXP4800 Pro is engineered for demanding workflows, serving as a versatile private workstation for video editors and developers. It features a powerful Intel Core i3 processor and high-speed DDR5 RAM.
Pros
- Pro-grade processor performance
- Fast dual network ports
- High RAM expandability
- Data Vault security
- Supports virtual machines
Cons
- Higher price than entry-level
- Complex setup for beginners
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Its dual high-speed network ports enable transfers up to 1.25GB/s, ideal for 4K editing directly from the NAS. The UGOS Pro system integrates media centers, cloud sync, and downloads into a one-stop experience.
Advanced users will appreciate the comprehensive Docker and VM support, which unlocks endless possibilities for self-hosted apps. The local AI-powered Photo Album manages massive libraries while keeping processing on-device for privacy.
Choose this model if you need maximum performance and flexibility. It is perfect for IT professionals and power users who require enterprise-grade security and the ability to run complex virtual environments.
Pro-Grade Hardware Engine
Features the Intel Core i3-1315U Processor with six cores and eight threads. It is paired with 8GB high-speed DDR5 RAM expandable to 96GB for heavy multitasking.
Enterprise Data Security
Certified for strong privacy by TÜV SÜD and TRUSTe. Features granular user permissions and a Data Vault to hide and encrypt sensitive files securely.
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3. Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 – Best Budget 4 Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 offers an affordable entry point for those needing fast networking and secure backups. It uses an optimized Realtek Quad-Core processor for smooth multitasking on a budget.
Pros
- Affordable entry price
- 2.5GbE Ethernet port
- WORM and snapshot tech
- 4K media streaming
- Flexible RAID options
Cons
- Only 1GB RAM included
- Basic user interface
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It features a 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet port for significantly faster transfers than traditional Gigabit systems. This improves backup times and media streaming performance for home entertainment systems and smart TVs.
Btrfs snapshots and Write Once Read Many technology protect against ransomware and accidental deletion. While it lacks high RAM capacity out of the box, it supports flexible RAID configurations for redundancy.
Buy this if you want cost-effective storage with modern networking speeds. It suits home users and small offices needing a reliable private cloud with essential data protection features without breaking the bank.
Optimized Network Performance
Equipped with 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet for significantly faster file transfers. This upgrade improves backup and media streaming performance over standard Gigabit connections.
Advanced Data Protection
Protect your digital life against ransomware with Btrfs snapshots and WORM technology. This ensures critical business documents and family memories remain immutable and safe.
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4. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT – High-Performance NAS
The UGREEN DXP4800 GT handles backups, media processing, and multi-user workloads smoothly thanks to its AMD Ryzen Embedded processor. Dual 10GbE networking delivers local-like editing speeds for creative teams.
Pros
- Dual 10GbE networking
- AMD Ryzen processor
- Surveillance Center built-in
- ECC RAM upgrade support
- SD card slot included
Cons
- Requires manual Plex setup
- Non-ECC RAM standard
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UGOS Pro simplifies management with guided setup and a clean interface. It supports Docker, virtual machines, and SAN Manager, letting users expand into Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin workflows easily.
Surveillance Center turns the NAS into a control center for home security, supporting ONVIF cameras without cloud subscriptions. SD card slots allow creators to import footage directly without external readers.
This unit is ideal for tech enthusiasts and small business teams needing fast throughput. Ensure you consider RAM upgrades for long-term operation and prepare for manual app setup if using Plex.
Blazing Network Speeds
Dual 10GbE ports provide up to 2.5GB/s theoretical throughput with link aggregation. This enables smoother large file transfers and balanced multi-user access.
Privacy and Security
Store files locally instead of third-party cloud servers with TLS and AES encryption. Security Manager and flexible permissions provide continuous protection for your data.
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5. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus – Family Creator NAS
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus offers centralized storage and automatic backups with a focus on ease of use. Its AI-powered photo album organizes images by recognizing faces and scenes automatically.
Pros
- Super-fast transfer speeds
- AI photo organization
- Private cloud security
- User-friendly mobile app
- Wide drive compatibility
Cons
- Wired Ethernet only
- No Wi-Fi support
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Back up 1GB files in less than a second using the 10GbE network port or 10Gbps USB ports. Flexible permission management makes it easy to protect privacy when collaborating with others.
It supports a wide range of RAID options for easy data recovery even if a drive fails. The device works seamlessly across every device including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile OS.
Buy this for smooth performance and seamless collaboration at home or in small offices. The user-friendly app and AI features make it a strong choice for creators managing large media assets.
Smart Photo Organization
Automatically organizes photos by recognizing faces, scenes, objects, and locations. It can also instantly remove duplicates to free up storage space.
Secure Private Cloud
Retain 100% data ownership with advanced encryption to protect files. Access remotely from any device via the UGREEN NASync app safely.
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6. UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus – Beginner NAS
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus is an entry-level 4-bay NAS ideal for home media and vast private storage. It is intuitive for users moving from cloud storage or external drives to a private cloud.
Pros
- Entry-level friendly setup
- Real-time photo backup
- NFC quick connection
- Lower power costs
- Local data control
Cons
- No virtual machine support
- Wired connection only
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Smart photo backup and AI albums keep family memories organized with semantic search and duplicate removal. UGREEN NAS enclosure comes with beginner-friendly user manuals and video instructions.
Unlike subscription cloud storage, this one-time purchase saves money over the long term. It is TRUSTe certified and awarded an ETSI EN 303 645 certification mark for NAS products.
Choose this if you need a cost-effective solution without recurring fees. The 2.5GbE port and 8GB RAM provide strong performance for everyday backups and remote work access.
Cost-Effective Storage
Requires only a one-time purchase for long-term use instead of monthly fees. Over ten years, you can save thousands compared to comparable cloud storage plans.
Local Privacy
Store data locally on private hard drives without hidden access. Advanced encryption protects your files while you keep full control over your data.
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7. Synology DS925+ – Reliable DiskStation
The Synology DS925+ supports drives on the official compatibility list with up to 565 MB/s sequential throughput. This enables stable data transfers for business applications and media streaming.
Pros
- High sequential throughput
- Dual network ports
- Integrated photo management
- 3-year hardware warranty
- Official drive compatibility
Cons
- Moderate RAM options
- Higher price point
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Dual 2.5GbE ports provide fast network transfer speeds and increased redundancy. It leverages built-in file and photo management, data protection, virtualization, and surveillance solutions effectively.
Synology's ecosystem offers robust data management tools like snapshots and Active Backup. This unit is backed by a three-year limited hardware warranty for long-term reliability.
Consider this for its balance of speed and Synology's proven software. It is ideal for users prioritizing stability, network redundancy, and seamless integration with existing DSM services.
High-Speed Throughput
Up to 522/565 MB/s sequential read/write throughput supports stable data transfers. Dual ports ensure fast transfers and increased network redundancy for busy offices.
Complete Ecosystem
Leverage built-in file and photo management, data protection, and virtualization. Backed by Synology's reliable three-year limited hardware warranty.
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8. Yxk Zero1 Pro – Home Office NAS
The Yxk Zero1 Pro offers beginner-friendly home NAS setup with guided mobile app steps. Powered by an Intel N100 processor and 8GB RAM, it handles everyday network attached storage tasks efficiently.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly setup
- N100 performance
- Docker and OS support
- HDMI media playback
- Efficient cooling
Cons
- Limited vendor support
- DIY OS installation
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You can connect a 4K HDMI output to a TV for direct media playback. Dual 2.5GbE ports support link aggregation to help multiple members access a shared library.
Experienced users can install third-party OS like TrueNAS or Unraid for customization. The aluminum enclosure helps dissipate heat while dedicated fans provide airflow for installed drives.
Choose this for its balance of price and capability. It is great for families creating shared home storage or experienced users wanting to explore different operating environments.
Shared Media Library
Dual 2.5GbE ports help multiple household members access shared files. Connect the 4K HDMI output to a TV for direct media playback.
Flexible Software Options
Intel N100 platform supports Docker apps and third-party OS installations. This allows you to build a customized storage platform for personal projects.
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9. Synology DS423 – Family Business NAS
The Synology DS423 creates a secure private cloud for safely accessing and sharing files from anywhere. It backs up media and documents to multiple destinations to prevent data loss.
Pros
- Secure remote access
- Comprehensive data protection
- Versatile video surveillance
- Multi-destination backup
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Basic CPU power
- License for cameras
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Versatile video surveillance protects homes with tools for up to 30 IP cameras. It replaces expensive SharePoint or Dropbox with local file sharing and team folders.
Ransomware-resistant backup uses immutable snapshots and versioned files to protect critical data. Reliable hardware is backed by Synology's expert customer support and ongoing updates.
Buy this for its focus on secure family and business backups. It suits users needing a straightforward file server with robust ransomware protection and basic surveillance features.
Secure Private Access
Safely access and share files and media from anywhere securely. Keep friends and partners on the same page with controlled sharing.
Ransomware Protection
Protect against malware with immutable snapshots and versioned files. Multi-destination backup strategies ensure you can recover data quickly.
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10. TERRAMASTER F4-425 – Home NAS
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 is equipped with an Intel x86 quad-core processor for powerful performance. It handles 4K transcoding and supports multi-user concurrent access easily.
Pros
- Hardware 4K decoding
- Silent operation
- TRAID array support
- Tool-free drive installation
- CloudSync apps
Cons
- Lower RAM base
- Proprietary OS limits
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As a home multimedia hub, it supports hardware-level 4K decoding for smooth playback via Plex and Emby. The 2.5GbE port ensures ultra-fast file transfers for media streaming.
It operates at just 21dB, making it suitable for quiet environments like bedrooms. The tool-free Push-Lock design lets you install hard drives in under ten seconds.
Choose this for a cost-effective home storage solution. Its silent operation and media features make it ideal for streaming and backups in shared living spaces.
Home Multimedia Hub
Hardware-level 4K decoding supports Plex and Jellyfin for smooth playback. AI smart albums organize millions of photos efficiently within the system.
User-Friendly Design
Tool-free Push-Lock design enables installing HDDs in ten seconds. It operates at 21dB, making it quiet for bedrooms or living areas.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 4 Bay NAS
Selecting the right NAS requires balancing hardware specs with software capabilities. This guide outlines six critical factors to ensure your device meets long-term needs.
Processor and RAM
The processor handles data transfers, transcoding, and virtual machine operations. Look for multi-core CPUs like Intel N100 or AMD Ryzen for smooth performance.
RAM capacity dictates how many concurrent users and apps the system can run. Aim for at least 8GB for efficient multitasking and future expansion.
Network Ports
Network speed determines how fast you can access files remotely or locally. Standard Gigabit ports are common but 2.5GbE or 10GbE offers faster backups.
Dual Ethernet ports provide redundancy or link aggregation. This allows higher bandwidth by combining connections, reducing bottlenecks during heavy usage.
Operating System
The OS defines usability and app availability. Synology DSM and UGREEN UGOS Pro offer intuitive interfaces with robust mobile apps.
Check for Docker and virtual machine support if you want to host servers. A flexible OS allows you to run custom tools without leaving the NAS.
Data Protection
RAID configurations protect against drive failure. Ensure the NAS supports RAID 5 or RAID 10 for balance of capacity and redundancy.
Snapshot technology and encryption safeguard against ransomware. Look for immutable backups that prevent unauthorized changes to critical files.
Storage Expansion
Capacity is key for long-term storage. Check maximum supported drive sizes and M.2 slots for SSD caching or expansion.
More bays allow easier upgrades. Ensure the unit supports NVMe SSDs if you need high-speed storage for databases or media editing.
Surveillance Capabilities
Some NAS units act as dedicated security recorders. Check if it supports IP cameras and offers motion detection tools.
Local storage for footage avoids subscription fees. Ensure the system supports ONVIF cameras for broader compatibility across brands.
How to Use and Care for Your 4 Bay NAS
Set up your NAS by installing drives and connecting to your router. Use the manufacturer app to initialize the device and configure RAID settings immediately.
Install backup agents on your computers to schedule regular syncs. Enable automatic versioning to recover files deleted or modified accidentally.
Keep firmware updated via the system settings to maintain security. Place the unit in a cool, ventilated area to extend hardware lifespan and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy hard drives with a 4 Bay NAS?
Most 4 Bay NAS units are sold as diskless devices. You must purchase compatible hard drives separately. Check the compatibility list for optimal performance and RAID support.
Can I use a 4 Bay NAS as a media server?
Yes, most models support Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin for streaming. Look for hardware transcoding capabilities to ensure smooth playback across devices on your network.
Is RAID necessary for home use?
RAID protects against drive failure but costs capacity. RAID 1 or RAID 5 is recommended for critical data. RAID 0 offers speed but no redundancy.
How much does a 4 Bay NAS cost?
Prices vary based on hardware and features. Entry-level models start lower while pro units cost more. Compare specs to find a fit for your budget.
Can I expand storage later?
Yes, adding larger drives or using expansion units works on many models. Check if your specific model supports online RAID migration or external enclosures.
Do I need a subscription for remote access?
Most NAS units offer free remote access via apps. Some brands may charge for advanced cloud sync features but basic file sharing is free.
What happens if a hard drive fails?
RAID rebuilds data from remaining drives if configured. If not using RAID, data loss occurs. Regular external backups ensure recovery without RAID.
Can I run custom apps on a NAS?
Advanced models support Docker containers for custom apps. This allows running servers or tools without using the built-in app store features.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS425+ offers reliable software for teams, while UGREEN models deliver high performance for power users. Asustor provides a budget-friendly option with modern networking.
Prioritize network speed and software features that match your specific needs. Ensure your chosen model supports the apps and RAID levels you rely on daily.
Always check current listings for compatibility and pricing before buying. Storage needs vary widely, so selecting the right balance of power and capacity is essential.