4GB RAM vs 32GB RAM NAS Devices in 2026: Key Differences
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You are comparing a 4GB RAM vs 32GB RAM NAS device to find the right storage solution. Both units offer robust hardware for data management, but they target different workloads. The QNAP model provides eight bays for massive storage capacity, while the TerraMaster unit focuses on high-speed processing with modern DDR5 memory. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize physical drive space or application performance.
Key differences
| Aspect | QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 4800MHz |
| Number of Bays | 8-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor | AMD R-Series Quad-core 2.1GHz | Intel Core i3-N305 8-Core 3.8GHz |
| Network Connectivity | 1GbE | 2x 2.5GbE |
| M.2 Slots | 2x SATA M.2 | 2x NVMe |
Which one should you choose?
Choose QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS if
- You need maximum physical storage capacity for large media libraries.
- You prefer a system with optional PCIe expansion for 10GbE or graphics.
- You require SATA-based M.2 SSD caching or storage pools.
Choose TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM if
- You run resource-intensive virtual machines or containerized apps.
- You want faster application load times and database responses.
- You need higher network throughput with dual 2.5GbE ports.
Verdict: The QNAP TS-673-4G is the better choice if you need eight drive bays for extensive storage expansion. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro suits users who prioritize processing power and faster memory speeds for demanding applications.
Comparing RAM Capacity and Storage
RAM Capacity
The QNAP TS-673-4G comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM. This amount is standard for basic file sharing and light media streaming. It handles multiple users well for simple tasks. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM. This is a massive difference. DDR5 is faster and more efficient than DDR4. The larger capacity allows for heavy virtualization and running many containerized apps simultaneously. If you plan to run databases or multiple services, the TerraMaster offers significantly more headroom. The QNAP is limited to lighter workloads due to its smaller memory pool.
Number of Bays
Storage capacity is a key decision for any NAS user. The QNAP TS-673-4G features eight drive bays. It supports six 3.5-inch drives and two M.2 SSDs. This allows for massive storage expansion and flexible caching options. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro has four drive bays. It also includes two M.2 NVMe slots for caching. While the TerraMaster is compact, the QNAP offers double the drive slots. You can install more hard drives in the QNAP for greater total storage. If you need to store large media libraries or many backups, the eight-bay design is more practical for high-volume data.
Processor Cores
Processing power affects how fast your NAS handles requests. The QNAP uses an AMD R-Series quad-core processor. It runs at 2.1GHz. This is a reliable choice for general NAS duties. The TerraMaster uses an Intel Core i3-N305 eight-core processor. It boosts up to 3.8GHz. More cores and higher clock speeds generally mean faster application loading and better multitasking. The TerraMaster claims significant speed improvements in file retrieval and database responses. For users running complex applications or virtual machines, the eight-core CPU in the TerraMaster provides a performance advantage over the four-core AMD chip in the QNAP.
Network Connectivity
Network speed determines how quickly you access files over your local network. The QNAP TS-673-4G is equipped with four 1GbE ports. It also supports optional 10GbE via PCIe expansion cards. This gives you flexibility to upgrade later. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro has dual 2.5GbE ports built-in. This provides higher baseline speeds without needing extra adapters. The TerraMaster can achieve up to 5Gb of bandwidth with link aggregation. For most users, the built-in 2.5GbE ports offer faster out-of-the-box performance. However, the QNAP offers more port variety and expansion potential for future network upgrades.
Physical Dimensions
Size matters if you have limited desk or rack space. The QNAP TS-673-4G is larger, measuring 11 inches in length and 10.4 inches in width. It weighs 12.3 pounds due to its eight-bay chassis. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is much more compact. It measures 8.74 inches in length and 7.05 inches in width. It weighs only 4.2 pounds. The TerraMaster is designed for smaller offices or home setups where space is at a premium. If you need a high-density storage solution and have room for a larger unit, the QNAP is the better fit. For a discreet setup, the TerraMaster is easier to place.
Which NAS suits your specific needs
Users needing massive local storage capacity
You should choose the QNAP TS-673-4G if you require eight drive bays for extensive data storage. This model supports six standard drives plus two M.2 SSDs. It offers ample space for centralized storage, backup, and sharing files across your network without needing external drives.
Professionals requiring high-speed application performance
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is ideal for high-load workflows. It features 32GB of DDR5 RAM and an 8-core processor. This configuration delivers faster application load times and improved database response speeds. You will benefit from quicker file retrieval and efficient handling of concurrent user access.
Home users with basic file sharing needs
For simple file sharing and light media streaming, the QNAP TS-673-4G is sufficient. Its 4GB of DDR4 RAM handles multiple users for basic tasks effectively. The eight-bay design allows you to store large media libraries locally while maintaining stable performance for everyday home network requirements.
Small businesses needing fast network connectivity
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro supports dual 2.5GbE ports, offering higher bandwidth for multi-user environments. This setup is perfect for small businesses requiring rapid data transfer. The combination of fast network interfaces and substantial RAM ensures seamless high-concurrent file access and efficient workflow management for teams.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS | High-capacity local media storage | Check price of QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS on Amazon |
| 2 | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM | High-RAM virtualization and application workloads | Check price of TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM on Amazon |
The products compared
QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS
Best for: High-capacity local media storage
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 6 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 4x GbE LAN
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Number of Bays
- 8-Bay
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
View on Amazon: QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-673-4G is an 8-bay NAS featuring a quad-core AMD processor and 4GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes four 1GbE ports and two M.2 SSD slots for caching or storage pools. You can expand connectivity with optional 10GbE PCIe cards. This device suits users who need high drive capacity and local transcoding power via a supported GPU.
Pros
- 8-bay storage for large media libraries
- Quad-core AMD processor for steady performance
- Dual M.2 slots for SSD caching
- Supports NVIDIA GT1030 for 4K transcoding
Cons
- 4GB RAM limits heavy virtualization workloads
- Base network speed is limited to 1GbE
- Larger physical footprint at 12.3 pounds
Good fit if
- You need maximum drive capacity in one unit
- You want local 4K video transcoding
- You plan to add 10GbE networking later
Skip if
- You require 32GB RAM for heavy virtualization
- You need 10GbE ports included by default
- You prefer a compact desktop form factor
Verdict: QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS fits users prioritizing storage density and GPU-assisted media transcoding over high-end virtualization capabilities.
TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM
Best for: High-RAM virtualization and application workloads
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2 x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Core i3-N305
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM Affiliate link
The TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro is a 4-bay NAS featuring a Core i3-N305 8-core CPU and 32GB of DDR5 memory. This high RAM capacity supports demanding virtualization and application workloads. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots for caching. The device is diskless and designed for users needing peak performance for small to medium-sized business tasks.
Pros
- 32GB DDR5 4800MHz RAM for high multitasking capacity
- Core i3-N305 8-core processor with 3.8GHz turbo speed
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports with link aggregation support
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching
Cons
- RAM is non-upgradable and non-ECC
- Diskless design requires separate hard drive purchase
- No mention of integrated UPS or battery backup
Good fit if
- You need high RAM for running multiple virtual machines or Docker containers
- You want fast application response times for database or web services
- You require dual 2.5GbE connectivity for increased network bandwidth
Skip if
- You prefer a pre-loaded NAS with drives included
- You need ECC memory for critical data integrity
- You are looking for a budget-friendly entry-level NAS
Verdict: TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro 4-Bay NAS suits users who prioritize processing power and memory for heavy virtualization tasks. It is ideal for small businesses needing robust application performance without the need for additional storage hardware.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 6 Bay | 4-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 4x GbE LAN | 2 x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | not stated | Intel Core i3-N305 |
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 4800MHz |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | 2 slots | 2 slots |
| Included Storage | not stated | Diskless |
| RAID Support | not stated | RAID 0 |
| Number of Bays | 8-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | 8-Core |
| Dimensions | 11 × 10.4 × 7.41 inches | 8.74 × 7.05 × 6.06 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 pounds | 4.2 pounds |
| Size | 4GB RAM | 4Bay, 8-Core CPU, 32GB RAM, F4-424 Pro |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | TS-673-4G-US | F4-424 Pro |
Frequently asked questions
Is 4GB RAM enough for a home NAS?
Yes, 4GB RAM is sufficient for basic file sharing and light media streaming. The QNAP TS-673-4G uses this capacity to handle multiple users for simple tasks. It also supports GPU-assisted media transcoding. This makes it a solid choice for users prioritizing storage density over heavy virtualization workloads.
Can a 32GB RAM NAS handle virtualization?
Absolutely. A 32GB RAM NAS is ideal for heavy virtualization tasks. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro features 32GB of DDR5 RAM and an 8-Core Intel processor. This combination provides the processing power and memory needed for robust application performance, making it suitable for small businesses requiring high-end capabilities.
Does higher RAM mean faster file transfers?
Not directly. RAM primarily affects multitasking and application performance, not raw transfer speeds. However, more RAM allows the system to handle more simultaneous requests efficiently. For example, the 32GB TerraMaster unit manages complex workloads better than the 4GB QNAP model, which focuses on storage capacity and media transcoding.
Which NAS has more drive bays?
The QNAP TS-673-4G offers eight drive bays. It supports six standard drives plus two M.2 SSDs. This provides massive local storage capacity. In contrast, the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is a 4-Bay NAS. It prioritizes RAM and CPU power over physical storage slots, making it better for application workloads.
Is 4GB RAM upgradable on the QNAP?
The provided data lists the QNAP TS-673-4G with 4GB RAM. It does not specify upgradeability. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro comes with 32GB RAM. You should check the manufacturer’s manual for specific upgrade paths. Generally, NAS devices allow RAM expansion, but you must verify compatibility with your specific model.
What is the difference between DDR4 and DDR5 RAM?
DDR5 is a newer standard offering higher bandwidth and efficiency than DDR4. The QNAP TS-673-4G uses 4GB of DDR4 RAM. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro uses 32GB of DDR5 RAM. This difference supports the TerraMaster’s focus on high-performance virtualization and heavy application workloads compared to the QNAP’s media-focused design.
Which NAS is better for media transcoding?
The QNAP TS-673-4G is better for media transcoding. It includes GPU-assisted transcoding capabilities. This helps convert video formats efficiently for streaming. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro focuses on CPU power for virtualization. While powerful, its design prioritizes processing power and memory for applications rather than dedicated media transcoding features.
Can I run Docker containers with 4GB RAM?
You can run a limited number of Docker containers with 4GB RAM. The QNAP TS-673-4G handles basic tasks well. However, heavy container usage may strain the system. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro with 32GB RAM handles many more containers simultaneously. It is designed for robust application performance and heavy virtualization tasks.