Best Network Attached Storage (NAS) in 2022

Technological progress does not stand still, everything is developing very rapidly. Computers and smartphones are no exception. After all, the needs of users are growing along with resource-intensive programs and games. If 20 years ago it was difficult to imagine 8 GB of RAM or a 500 MB hard drive, today such characteristics may not satisfy some selection criteria.

In addition to the power of the processor, a large amount of RAM and a video card, a modern motherboard, the main need is also in a storage hdd. Therefore, there was a fashion for capacious hard drives and external drives. Thanks to which you can save considerable amounts of information, speed up the download of file transfers.

Recently, network drives have become quite popular. They are designed to store information and securely interact with cloud storage.It also distributes information via wireless Internet to any device, which is very convenient, you do not need to save it separately on your tablet, phone and computer, just click on the icon and enter your login and password in the dialog box.

NAS is a standalone device, or rather, storage with its own processor and RAM. Design, size and characteristics may vary, it all depends on the manufacturer and its functionality. But they are connected by independent and independent work from other devices.

What is network storage and what is it intended for?

In terms of functions, NAS is similar to various cloud services, such as Yandex disk, Dropbox and the well-known iCloud. For the device to work, its hard drive must be connected to the router. The result is a shared, secure storage that can be easily accessed by tablet, PC, and smartphone.

One of the key points is the cross-platform nature of the NAS, that is, it can interact and work with any operating system and is perfect not only for a media player, but also for Smart TV.As mentioned above, these drives can be very different from each other, it all depends on the manufacturer, functions and how much space is provided for the HDD. The cost, of course, is affected by performance, capacity, power and popularity of models. Therefore, the average price can vary from 8 thousand to 40 thousand rubles and more.

Many people ask in the reviews if it can work as a small server? Naturally. After all, the device itself is a fast and small server. Some small businesses just use NAS instead of a huge cluster cabinet, which not every company can afford. Maintenance is much easier, just install the drivers and read the instructions on how to use it to get started. Most popular models are sold complete with additional power.

The review provides a rating of high-quality drives. Various models, from cheap to more expensive. The article will help to understand and answer the main question: which option is better to buy. And also at the end will be presented brief instructions for setting up and connecting.

WD My Cloud Personal

Compact, fast and silent hard drive. Powered by a 2-core processor with a capacity of 650 MHz. Unassuming design, easy to use. Available in two colors: gray and black. The ability to control using special mobile applications that can be downloaded for free on Google Play for Android, and iTunes for IOS.

The amount of memory varies from 2 to 4 TB. Ideal for home and small office. It can be found at an average price of 10,000 rubles. The disadvantage of this device is that the disk is not capable of backing up inside the system, so you have to connect an external drive, which is not always convenient. But a good data transfer rate using USB 3.0.

• Fast, silent and compact;
• Simple and stylish design;
• High storage capacity;
• Good price;
• Convenient to operate;
• An ordinary user can quickly figure it out himself, no wizard is needed.

• Few hard drive bays
• Some models are available without HDD;
• Not shockproof;
• No internal backup.

Seagate Personal Cloud 2 Bay

Similar in function to My Cloud, but provides more features. Sufficiently high capacity - up to 8 TB, its cost is 18,290 rubles. With software like a media server and RAID support, it can act as an FTP server. It has two storage bays, which allows you to quickly transfer files from one drive to another, and work offline in case of failure of one of the drives.

The compact size and stylish design fit into any interior. Comes in two colors: black and dark grey. Pleases, its silent operation and small size.

Works with various cloud services and streaming apps such as Twitch, Fsplit and obs-studio.

• Cross-platform;
• Attractive appearance;
• Multiple hard drive bays;
• Ability to work as an FTP server;
• High storage capacity;
• Fast internal backup capability.

• Lack of shock resistance;
• In the countries of the former CIS, only models with 4 TB.

QNAP TS-251A

The model is not budget, but rather high price category. It is characterized by multifunctionality, good and stylish design and powerful processor. It has two Ethernet ports, and special software for a laptop. You can also connect a smart TV via HDMI output.

Powerful and dual-core Intel processor, clocked at 1.6 GHz, RAM - 4 GB, expandable up to 8 GB. Thanks to the modern and flexible QTS operating system, the ability to interact with all operating systems, and you can also download many multimedia and server applications for free.

Two slots for hard drives, but they need to be purchased separately, they are not included in the kit. How much does such a model cost? The price varies from 20,000 - 30,000 rubles.

• Powerful processor;
• Capacious RAM with the possibility of increasing;
• Clear download menu;
• Compact size;
• Mediocre design;
• Ability to work as an FTP server.

• Lack of shock resistance;
• High price;
• HDD sold separately.

Buffalo LinkStation LS220D

Before you decide which company is the best device to buy, you should pay attention to a fairly young company - Buffalo. 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor, 4 GB RAM. High data transfer speed, two hard drive bays and high capacity - up to 8 TB, but modifications to 2, 4 and 6 TB are possible.

An exclusive feature of the novelty from Buffalo is support for Apple Time Machine and built-in BitTorrent and WebAccess. Few people know, but BitTorrent allows you to download files even when your computer is turned off. And the ability to use the server for iTunes.The design is quite stylish and the dimensions are compact. Outwardly, it looks like a small black cube with a red stripe on the side. The price at the time of issue was 17,500 rubles.

• Productive processor;
• RAM is large enough;
• Convenient download manager;
• Compact dimensions;
• Stylish design;
• The presence of built-in BitTorrent and WebAccess for convenient work.

• There may not be enough space for hard;
• Hard drives may not be included;
• Not shockproof.

Synology DiskStation DS416

Fast, powerful, feature rich and flexible NAS from the best manufacturers. The company has long been producing components and parts for computers and phones. The NAS is equipped with 4 bays that can load drives up to 8 GB. The total amount of memory will be 32 TB. Plus, it is possible to add an additional 5 compartments. Consequently, the volume increases to 73 TB. Almost like a small station. Such a model may well cope with work in a larger enterprise, replacing bulky and familiar servers.

It has many different tools for security and protection against unauthorized access. It can also work as a media server. Its average price is 30,000 rubles.

• Powerful processor;
• Capacious RAM - 8 GB;
• Huge amount of memory plus additional compartments;
• Compact dimensions;
• Stylish design;
• Programs for protection against hacking.

• High price;
• Slows down when multitasking;
• Models can be produced without disks.

WD My Cloud Mirror

A new Chinese company has relatively recently begun to delight users with its inexpensive and high-quality novelties. A simple NAS with two bays and the ability to expand the memory from 4 to 16 TB, for only 20,000 rubles. An accessible and uncomplicated manual that tells in detail how to set it up. In general, this storage model was just invented for ordinary users. It is characterized by a friendly interface, easy integration both for a computer and for other devices. You can control the device through a browser.

Average processor - 1.2 GHz, and 3 GB of RAM. Maybe such a device will not replace powerful servers, but it will be ideal for the home. Impressive ability to back up to Dropbox.

• Nimble, quiet and comfortable;
• Technological and new design;
• Large amount of storage;
• Good price;
• Convenient to operate;
• An ordinary user can quickly figure it out himself, no wizard is needed.

• Few hard drive bays
• Some models are available without HDD;
• Not shockproof.

Synology DiskStation DS216j

First of all, you should pay attention to the metal and shockproof case. Despite its considerable weight, its dimensions are quite small. This device is more suitable for cloud storage enthusiasts than ordinary users due to the complexity of the settings.

Equipped with a 1.7 GHz dual-core processor and 2 GB of RAM. Four external bays, but hard drives are not included, you will have to buy separately and further configure. For a regular user or a novice, this can cause additional trouble.

Compatible with almost all cloud services, integration with all operating systems. About 8 IP cameras can be connected to the device and used as an additional host for up to 30 sites. The cost of such a device is 15,000 rubles.

• Almost silent, productive and ergonomic;
• Impressive appearance;
• High storage capacity;
• Multifunctionality;
• Easy to use;
• Ability to work with all cloud applications.

• Heavy;
• No hard drives included
• It will be difficult for a beginner to understand.

WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra

One of the most functional brothers of the WD My Cloud family. A powerful processor, stylish design and cross-platform allow you to take on more complex work than the usual copying and storing files. The price is 12,790 rubles.

Small plastic and black case with two compartments, having memory capacity: 4, 8, 12, 16 TB. The processor is average performance, as is the RAM. Its main focus is on protecting and saving files. Friendly enough software - My Cloud OS 3. Thanks to the RAID standard, it easily integrates with different operating systems and clouds.

Supports Microsoft Active Directory, designed specifically for small companies. Therefore, it can safely serve as a regular office server.

• Small size, speed and quiet operation;
• Simple and stylish design;
• Multifunctionality;
• Practical to use
• Connects to many server applications.

• It will be difficult for a beginner to understand.

Western Digital DL4100

Convenient storage for home use.Medium sized black plastic block with 4 compartments. Collected a lot of positive feedback from aliexpress. And no wonder.

A good and smart processor with a capacity of 1.5 GB, the ability to increase the amount of RAM from its native 2 to an impressive 6 GB. In addition, its capacity is very impressive - from 8 to 24 TB.

The device is designed specifically for comfortable backup, with a huge number of different programs. The shell itself has a special menu bar where you can choose from a huge variety of backup options. All this at a price of 22,000 rubles.

You can also choose the amount of memory, a friendly interface and ease of setup and download, what could be better for the average user?

• Nimble, energy-saving and oversized;
• Productive iron;
• Clear interface;
• Simplified setup function for beginners;
• Ability to work with all clouds.

• Slow loading;
• Poor WiFi file transfer.

Time Capsule Apple Air Port

It may be an expensive and popular brand, but it is wireless, multifunctional and quite easy to use. The capacity is small - 2 and 3 TB. Function of the accelerated data transfer. All work takes place via a wireless network, the drive does not need to be connected separately. The price of the device is 35,000 rubles.

It is configured simply and automatically, practically when connected, you can start working. Beginners will appreciate it. Simple and logical interface with tips, printer and disk sharing via USB port. Everything is easy and simple.

But the high cost is depressing, on the other hand, Apple products have always been sold at a fairly high price, sometimes not even justified.On the other hand, they offer a high-quality and easy-to-manage wireless storage. Which easily interacts with iOS, without brakes and lag.

• Incomparable and stylish, branded design;
• Wireless;
• High data transfer rate;
• Security provided by Time Capsule;
• Easy to set up;
• Good iron.

• High price;
• Integration only with iOS;
• Lack of cross-platform;
• Small capacity.

Samsung Wireless

Samsung, a well-known company on the world market, has released a rather interesting device, worth 5,000 rubles, which is considered one of the best network drives. One of its main advantages is a WiFi-hotspot that allows you to connect up to 3 users, which is why it is classified as a portable device for smartphones and planets.

The storage capacity is quite small - 1.5 TB, which allows you to carry around a not so big collection of movies in good quality. Supports almost all operating systems. Connects to wireless networks and provides Internet distribution.

Another plus in the treasury of functionality is the USB 3.0 connector, which can still be used as a recharge. And the ability to connect to a computer without using a wireless network.

• Compact size and stylish design;
• Multifunctional;
• Integration with all operating systems and for mobile devices;
• Convenient interface;
• Good price.

• Small storage capacity.

ASUSTOR AS-602T

A fairly well-known brand, or rather its division, which recently appeared at the huge company ASUStek Computer. Since 2011, they have been releasing the best network drives that occupy the honorary meta among competitors.In addition to good quality, year after year they offer the consumer innovations not only for powerful and corporate networks, but also for ordinary home networks.

The model, released at a price of 21,000 rubles, is equipped with a powerful processor - a dual-core Intel Atom with 2.1 MHz and 1 GB of RAM with a DDR3 slot. Two hard drive bays, the drives themselves are linked through the RAID program.

The device has 8 built-in USB connectors - 6 of them for data transfer at a speed of 2.0, the rest - 3.0, there is also an HDMI output. Only 4 cameras can be connected to it, data transmission via wireless network is optional, you need to be careful. In general, the device is ideal for a home network, both in terms of price and quality.

• Fast, silent and compact;
• Simple and stylish design;
• Good iron;
• Friendly interface;
• Ideal for beginners;
• Convenient to operate;
• Ability to work with all clouds.

• If you do not expect something supernatural from the device, then there are no shortcomings.

Kingston MobileLite Wireless MLW221

A fairly well-known company among lovers of high-quality RAM boards and flash drives. Why is this memory card listed? It's simple, because this model can transmit data wirelessly to three users, and the wireless charging function is also available. The price is 2,500 rubles.

The device is connected to the usb port along with a memory card and is used as an external storage. Quickly transfers to a computer and also writes large amounts of data to the card, such as games, movies, videos and other multimedia data. The device itself is good if there is no need to connect additionally different wired devices.

• Compact and multimedia device;
• Easy to use and does not require additional connections;
• Economical consumption of electricity;
• Fast recording and data transfer;
• There is no need to configure anything.

• Still, this is not the usual standard drive with local server functions.

How to connect and set up a NAS?

Many people think that only an experienced user or computer scientist can connect and configure network storage. In fact, even a beginner can easily cope with such work. The main thing is to carefully read the instructions, familiarize yourself with the specifics of the model and follow the points described below:

1. Before connecting the device to the router, you need to check all connectors and adapters. Further, according to the scheme presented in the instructions, we connect the necessary wires.
2. System installation. Usually, a disk with an operating system is included in the kit, if it is not there, then it does not matter. We find any supported and publicly available operating system and download the image to a disk or USB flash drive. In our time, the installation should not cause difficulties, you just need to follow the points, in extreme cases, you can watch videos, which abound on the Internet.
3. Finished with the operating system, let's move on to setting up the server. In the window of a separate computer, click on the special icon and enter the username and password in the dialog box. It is not recommended to leave the default Root, otherwise the server will crash. We adjust the language if necessary, this can be done in the "Language" item in the menu bar.
4. Next, we split the hard drives, and create the necessary partitions, just go to the “Disc” item.
5. Download and configure the necessary services. In modern drive models, the necessary software is built in by default. Although at will the software can be updated, changed or supplemented. To do this, you need to find the necessary information on the official website of the manufacturer, read and change, enable / disable, update and delete if necessary.

There is nothing complicated in setting up a network drive, the main thing is to understand the specifics of the model itself and clearly follow the points. And there shouldn't be any issues with setup.

This review smoothly comes to an end. In this article, each device model was clearly and in detail described and analyzed. But before you choose the right drive for you, you need to carefully understand your needs and how much money you can spend. You always need to clearly understand the expediency of the acquisition. It is foolish to purchase a powerful NAS for home with huge functionality and capacity. It is also wrong to take a regular, inexpensive and homemade mini-server with reduced functionality for a large company.

Beginners often break their heads where you can profitably buy a device. It all comes down to trust and experience. It is best to purchase them in special stores with a guarantee. Many, of course, order from various online stores, but you need to be sure of them, as scammers often live in such stores. And in the case of the well-known aliexpress, delivery takes a very long time. Therefore, everyone must decide for himself where it is better to purchase a quality device.