Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro AS3304T Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This asustor drivestor 4 pro as3304t review covers a compact storage solution for home and small office environments. The Asustor AS3304T is a 4-bay NAS drive designed to hold multiple hard drives or SSDs. It features a Realtek RTD 1296 quad-core processor running at 1.4 GHz. Memory is provided by 2GB of DDR4 RAM. These two specs define its baseline performance for managing files and running basic applications. The unit supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives, offering flexibility in storage configuration. It connects via a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for faster data transfers than standard Gigabit connections.
What stands out
- Four drive bays support up to 72TB total capacity using 18TB drives each
- Realtek RTD 1296 quad-core CPU paired with 2GB DDR4 RAM
- Single 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for enhanced network throughput
- Hardware-accelerated transcoding for 10-bit 4K H.265 video playback
Who it fits
Good fit for
This NAS suits home users and small office workers who need reliable file storage and media streaming. The quad-core processor and 2.5GbE port handle multiple users and large file transfers efficiently. If you plan to run Plex or similar media servers, the hardware decoding helps maintain smooth playback. The 4-bay design allows you to expand storage easily by adding more drives. It is ideal for those who want a straightforward setup without complex configuration requirements.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you require more than 2GB of RAM for heavy multitasking or running many simultaneous applications. The single 2.5GbE port limits your network speed options compared to devices with dual ports or 10GbE support. If you need advanced RAID levels beyond basic configurations, this model may lack the necessary software features. Users requiring extensive expansion options via USB or PCIe cards will find this unit too restrictive. It is not built for high-end enterprise workloads or intensive virtualization tasks.
Verdict: The Asustor AS3304T is a solid entry-level NAS for basic storage and media needs. Its specs are sufficient for home and small office use but lack the power for demanding professional workflows.
Key specs explained for you
Realtek RTD 1296 Quad Core 1.4 GHz CPU
This processor handles the daily tasks of your NAS. The four cores allow the system to manage multiple users and background jobs without slowing down. You benefit from smooth operation when running apps or managing files. This setup is ideal for home offices where you need reliable performance without buying a server-grade machine. Compare this to dual-core models which may struggle with heavier workloads.
2GB RAM DDR4
This memory holds active data and running applications. Two gigabytes is sufficient for basic file storage and light media serving. You can run Plex and backup tasks simultaneously without significant lag. If you plan to run many virtual machines or heavy database apps, you might need more. For most home users, this amount provides a stable foundation for everyday NAS duties.
1 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
This network connection offers speeds higher than standard gigabit Ethernet. You get faster file transfers between your computer and the NAS. This is useful if you have a 2.5GbE capable computer or router. It doubles the throughput of traditional ports. Compare this to older 1GbE models when shopping. Faster networking reduces wait times when moving large video files or backups across your local network.
4 Bay
This refers to the number of drive slots inside the unit. You can install four hard drives or SSDs. This allows for RAID configurations that protect your data or provide more total storage. You can mix drive sizes to expand capacity over time. This is a practical choice for users who need more than one drive but do not want a large 8-bay chassis. It fits well on a desk or shelf.
Design and build overview
According to the listing, the Asustor AS3304T measures 6.85 inches wide, 9.06 inches long, and 6.69 inches high. It weighs 4.85 pounds. These dimensions place it in the compact category for a four-bay unit. You can fit it on a desk or in a media cabinet without taking up too much space. The weight suggests a sturdy chassis that should remain stable during operation, even with four drives installed.
The listing identifies the model as the Drivestor Pro series. This designation usually implies a focus on reliability for home and small office use. The four-bay layout allows you to install either 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives. This flexibility lets you mix high-capacity mechanical drives with faster SSDs. You can expand your storage up to 72TB total, depending on the drive sizes you choose.
While the listing does not detail specific materials like metal or plastic, the compact footprint and moderate weight indicate a design meant for quiet, indoor environments. The size makes it suitable for placement near entertainment centers or in home offices. You do not need a large rack or dedicated server room to house this NAS. The physical design prioritizes ease of installation and space efficiency over industrial ruggedness.
Setup and everyday use guide
Setting up the Asustor AS3304T begins with installing your chosen storage drives. The unit supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA SSDs or HDDs. You can mix drive types to balance speed and capacity. The NAS handles up to 72TB of total storage, allowing you to expand your library as needed. Once drives are in place, you connect the single 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port to your network. This port doubles the performance of standard Gigabit connections, ensuring faster data transfers for your local network. The device includes 2GB of DDR4 RAM to support these operations smoothly. For daily use, the system runs on the Realtek RTD 1296 quad-core processor. This hardware configuration allows you to manage multiple users and background tasks efficiently. You can access files across different platforms and enable remote access from anywhere. The built-in App Central provides over 200 unique applications. You can install Plex media servers to stream content directly. The hardware also supports transcoding for 10-bit 4K H.265 video. This feature ensures smooth playback of high-resolution media without stuttering. Dozens of backup solutions are available through the software ecosystem. You can configure automatic backups to protect your important data. The mobile app allows you to manage files on the go. The setup process is straightforward for home and small office users. You do not need complex technical knowledge to get started. The system is designed for reliability and ease of use in everyday scenarios.
Before you buy this NAS
You need to check your network setup first. This unit has a 2.5GbE port. Your router must support this speed to see benefits. If your router is standard Gigabit, you will not gain extra throughput. You also need compatible drives. The listing says it takes 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA SSDs and HDDs. Mix them if you want. You must plan your storage layout. It holds four drives for up to 72TB total. Power consumption matters for always-on devices. Keep the area ventilated. Dust filters help longevity. Backups are critical. Use the built-in apps for multiple user access. Remote access features allow mobile control. Consider if you need Plex transcoding. The hardware supports 4K H.265 decoding. This saves CPU load. Compare this to smaller two-bay options if you need less space. Check app compatibility for your specific needs before purchasing.
Check before you buy
- Verify your router supports 2.5GbE for full speed.
- Confirm drive size compatibility with your existing drives.
- Check if you need more than four drive bays.
- Ensure your network switch supports 2.5GbE if present.
- Review app requirements for your specific media needs.
The product at a glance
Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS
Best for: Home media servers needing 2.5GbE speed
- Drive Bays
- 4 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 1 x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Realtek RTD 1296
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB DDR4
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
View on Amazon: Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro is a 4-bay network-attached storage device designed for home and small office use. It features a 1.4GHz quad-core CPU and 2GB of DDR4 RAM. The unit includes a 2.5GbE port to boost network speeds beyond standard Gigabit limits. It supports up to 72TB of storage using 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch drives. You can access data remotely via mobile apps and Plex media servers.
Pros
- 2.5GbE Ethernet port for faster network transfers
- Supports up to 72TB total storage capacity
- Hardware decoding for 4K H.265 media playback
- Over 200 apps available via App Central
Cons
- Only 2GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- Single 2.5GbE port restricts link aggregation
- No mention of USB 3.0 backup ports in data
Good fit if
- You need a 4-bay NAS for family media
- You want faster local network speeds than Gigabit
- You plan to use Plex for media streaming
Skip if
- You require more than 4 drive bays
- You need 10GbE networking for heavy workloads
- You want a system with more than 2GB RAM
Verdict: Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro 4-Bay NAS fits users who need solid home storage with faster-than-Gigabit networking. It is a practical base for media servers but lacks the RAM for demanding virtualization tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS |
|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 4 Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 1 x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | Realtek RTD 1296 |
| RAM Capacity | 2GB DDR4 |
| Included Storage | Diskless |
| Number of Bays | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core |
| Dimensions | 9.06 × 6.85 × 6.69 inches |
| Weight | 4.85 pounds |
| Size | 4 Bay |
| Color | Drivestor Pro |
| Model | AS3304T |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro have 2.5GbE networking?
Yes, this NAS includes 2.5GbE connectivity. It also supports 5GbE speeds in some configurations. This allows faster data transfers than standard Gigabit Ethernet. You will see improved performance when moving large media files across your local network.
What processor does the AS3304T use?
The device uses a Realtek RTD 1296 quad-core processor. It runs at 1.4 GHz. This chip handles daily storage tasks and multiple user requests. It provides smooth operation for home media servers and file sharing duties.
How much RAM is installed in this NAS?
The Asustor AS3304T comes with 2GB of RAM. This amount is sufficient for basic home storage and media serving. It is not enough for demanding virtualization tasks. You should plan your workload accordingly if you need heavy multitasking.
What are the physical dimensions of the Drivestor 4 Pro?
The unit measures 6.85 inches wide, 9.06 inches long, and 6.69 inches high. It weighs 4.85 pounds. These compact dimensions allow it to fit easily on a desk or in a small shelf space without taking up too much room.
Is this NAS suitable for home media servers?
Yes, it is well-suited for home media servers. The quad-core processor and 2.5GbE port handle streaming efficiently. The 4-bay design allows ample storage for your media library. It serves as a practical base for managing digital content at home.
Can I mix SSDs and HDDs in the bays?
Yes, you can mix drive types. The NAS supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA SSDs or HDDs. You can combine them to balance speed and capacity. This flexibility lets you optimize performance for frequently accessed files while storing large archives on slower drives.