8GB RAM or 32GB RAM NAS Devices? Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing an 8GB RAM vs 32GB RAM NAS device to find the right storage solution. Both units offer robust connectivity and modern processors. The Asustor model provides eight drive bays for large libraries, while the TerraMaster unit delivers significantly more memory and a faster processor in a compact four-bay chassis. This guide breaks down how these spec differences impact your daily workflow and capacity needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| RAM Capacity | 8GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 |
| Processor | Intel Atom C3538 Quad-Core | Core i3-N305 8-Core |
| Drive Bays | 8-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 2x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS if
- You need to store a large number of hard drives in a single enclosure.
- You require 10GbE network interfaces for high-speed local transfers.
- You prefer a system with non-upgradable but sufficient DDR4 memory.
Choose TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM if
- You want maximum application performance with 32GB of DDR5 RAM.
- You need a faster 8-core processor for heavy multitasking.
- You are looking for a compact, diskless unit with M.2 NVMe support.
Verdict: The Asustor Lockerstor is the better choice if you prioritize storage capacity and 10GbE networking. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro suits users who need higher processing power and abundant RAM for virtualization or heavy application loads. Choose based on whether your bottleneck is drive space or computational speed.
8GB vs 32GB RAM NAS Specs
RAM Capacity
Memory size is the primary difference between these two NAS devices. The Asustor Lockerstor 8 AS6508T comes with 8GB of DDR4-2133 RAM. This capacity is sufficient for basic file serving and light virtualization tasks. In contrast, the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro features a substantial 32GB of DDR5-4800MHz memory. This larger pool allows for more simultaneous applications, heavier database workloads, and smoother performance when running multiple virtual machines. The TerraMaster offers four times the memory capacity, which directly impacts its ability to handle intensive multitasking without slowing down.
Number of Bays
Storage expansion potential varies significantly between these models. The Asustor Lockerstor 8 is an eight-bay NAS, designed to hold eight 3.5-inch SATA hard drives. This makes it ideal for users with large media libraries or those needing maximum raw storage capacity in a single unit. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is a four-bay device, supporting only four drives. While it lacks the raw bay count of the Asustor, it compensates with two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching. If you prioritize total drive count over cache speed, the Asustor is the better choice for bulk storage.
Network Connectivity
Both devices offer high-speed networking, but the Asustor provides more versatile options. The Asustor Lockerstor 8 includes two 10GbE ports and two 2.5GbE ports, allowing for link aggregation to reach up to 20Gbps. This is ideal for professional environments requiring extremely fast data transfer rates. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro features dual 2.5GbE ports, offering a maximum aggregated speed of 5Gb. While sufficient for most small business and home users, it does not match the raw bandwidth potential of the Asustor’s 10GbE interfaces. The Asustor wins for high-throughput needs.
Processor Cores
Processing power differs in both core count and architecture. The Asustor uses an Intel Atom C3538 quad-core processor running at 2.1GHz. This is a reliable, energy-efficient chip suited for standard NAS duties. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro features an Intel Core i3-N305, which is an eight-core, eight-thread processor capable of boosting up to 3.8GHz. The higher core count and clock speed suggest the TerraMaster can handle more complex computational tasks, such as transcoding or heavy application loads, more efficiently than the quad-core Asustor. The TerraMaster has the edge in raw processing potential.
Form Factor
Physical dimensions and weight impact where you can place these units. The Asustor Lockerstor 8 is a larger, heavier unit, measuring 11.5 inches wide, 8.5 inches high, and 9.06 inches long, weighing 13.7 pounds. Its size is necessary to accommodate eight drive bays. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is much more compact, measuring 7.05 inches wide, 6.06 inches high, and 8.74 inches long, weighing only 4.2 pounds. The TerraMaster is significantly easier to fit on a desk or in smaller spaces. If space is limited, the TerraMaster is the practical choice.
Which NAS matches your specific needs
Users needing high capacity storage
The Asustor Lockerstor 8 offers eight drive bays for extensive libraries. Its dual 10GbE and dual 2.5GbE ports provide flexible, high-speed connectivity options. This model suits those prioritizing raw storage volume and versatile network interfaces over maximum memory capacity for heavy virtualization workloads.
Professionals running demanding applications
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and an eight-core processor. This configuration delivers faster application load times and improved database response speeds. It is ideal for users running multiple virtual machines or resource-intensive services that require substantial memory bandwidth.
Small teams with moderate storage
This four-bay NAS balances performance with a compact form factor. The 32GB DDR5 memory supports efficient multitasking for small business environments. Dual 2.5GbE ports and M.2 NVMe slots for caching ensure quick data retrieval. It is a practical choice for focused workgroups.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS | 8-bay storage with 10GbE networking | Check price of Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS on Amazon |
| 2 | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM | high-performance small business storage | Check price of TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM on Amazon |
The products compared
Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS
Best for: 8-bay storage with 10GbE networking
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 8-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Atom C3538
- Hardware Interface
- M.2 NVMe
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS Affiliate link
The Asustor AS6508T is an 8-bay NAS with an Intel Atom C3538 quad-core processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It features dual 10GbE and dual 2.5GbE ports for high-speed connectivity. This 8GB RAM configuration suits users who need multiple drive bays and fast networking without requiring the 32GB capacity found in higher-end models.
Pros
- 8GB DDR4 RAM for data processing
- Dual 10GbE network interfaces
- Dual 2.5GbE network interfaces
- Supports eight 3.5-inch SATA drives
Cons
- 8GB RAM is lower than the 32GB option
- Intel Atom C3538 is less powerful than Core i3
- 13.7 pounds is heavier than smaller NAS units
Good fit if
- You need eight drive bays for large storage
- You require 10GbE connectivity for fast transfers
- You want a NAS with 8GB RAM
Skip if
- You need 32GB RAM for heavy virtualization
- You prefer a Core i3 processor
- You want a smaller 2-bay or 4-bay unit
Verdict: Asustor AS6508T 8-Bay 8GB RAM NAS fits users who prioritize high drive capacity and 10GbE networking over maximum RAM or CPU power. It is a practical choice for those who need eight bays and fast networking without the bulk of a 32GB system.
TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM
Best for: high-performance small business storage
- 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 DDR5 RAM. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching. This diskless unit targets small and medium-sized businesses needing high application speed and fast file retrieval. You get robust connectivity and efficient data handling without pre-installed drives.
Pros
- 32GB DDR5 4800MHz RAM for high performance
- Core i3-N305 8-core 8-thread CPU
- Dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for caching
Cons
- RAM is non-ECC and non-upgradable
- Sold diskless with no included storage
- Only 4 drive bays available
Good fit if
- You need 32GB RAM for heavy workloads
- You want fast application load times
- You require dual 2.5GbE connectivity
Skip if
- You need ECC memory for stability
- You want pre-installed hard drives
- You require more than 4 bays
Verdict: TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro 4-Bay NAS suits users prioritizing raw CPU power and large RAM capacity over expandability. It fits those who manage data-intensive applications and need rapid response times.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 8-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 2x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE | 2 x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | Intel Atom C3538 | Intel Core i3-N305 |
| RAM Capacity | 8GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 4800MHz |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | not stated | 2 slots |
| Included Storage | not stated | Diskless |
| RAID Support | not stated | RAID 0 |
| Hardware Interface | M.2 NVMe | not stated |
| Number of Bays | 8-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | 8-Core |
| Dimensions | 9.06 × 11.5 × 8.5 inches | 8.74 × 7.05 × 6.06 inches |
| Weight | 13.7 pounds | 4.2 pounds |
| Size | 8 Bay | 4Bay, 8-Core CPU, 32GB RAM, F4-424 Pro |
| Color | Lockerstor | Black |
| Model | AS6508T | F4-424 Pro |
Frequently asked questions
Does 8GB RAM handle multiple virtual machines well?
It supports light virtualization but is not ideal for heavy workloads. The Asustor AS6508T includes 8GB of RAM, which fits basic file serving and modest virtual tasks. For running multiple demanding virtual machines, you should look for a device with higher memory capacity like 32GB.
Which NAS is better for small business data-intensive apps?
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is better for these needs. It features 32GB of RAM and an 8-Core Intel processor. This combination provides the raw power needed for rapid response times in data-intensive applications. It suits users who prioritize performance over having many drive bays.
Can I expand the RAM on these NAS devices?
The provided specifications do not mention user-upgradeable memory slots. You must rely on the factory-installed RAM capacity. The Asustor model comes with 8GB, while the TerraMaster unit includes 32GB. Check the manufacturer documentation for specific upgrade options, as this data is not included in the core specs.
Is an 8-Core CPU necessary with 8GB of RAM?
Not necessarily, as it depends on your workload. The Asustor AS6508T uses a Quad-Core processor with 8GB of RAM, which is practical for high drive capacity and 10GbE networking. If you need more CPU power, the TerraMaster model pairs 32GB RAM with an 8-Core Intel processor for heavier tasks.
Which device offers more drive bays for storage?
The Asustor Lockerstor 8 AS6508T offers eight drive bays. This makes it the superior choice if you need to store large libraries or extensive data sets. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro only provides four bays, focusing instead on processing power and memory for smaller but more intensive storage needs.
How do the network speeds compare between these two units?
The Asustor AS6508T features dual 10GbE ports for high-speed networking. This is ideal for users prioritizing fast data transfer rates alongside high storage volume. The provided data does not list specific network port speeds for the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro, so you should verify its connectivity options separately.
Which NAS is lighter and easier to place in a small space?
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is significantly lighter. It weighs 4.2 pounds and measures 7.05 by 8.74 inches. The Asustor AS6508T weighs 13.7 pounds and is larger. If space and weight are concerns, the TerraMaster unit is the more compact and manageable option for your setup.