Looking Beyond the Asustor 6-Bay NAS Quad M.2? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The asustor lockerstor 6 gen2 as6706t alternatives list helps you find a better fit for your storage needs. This model offers a quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 processor, six drive bays, and four M.2 NVMe slots for hybrid caching. It also includes dual 2.5GbE ports and expandable RAM, making it strong for media transcoding and virtualization.
You might want a different device if you need more drive capacity, higher RAM, or a specific form factor. Some users prefer rackmount designs for higher density, while others need a smaller desktop unit. These alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, such as similar network connectivity or NVMe support. This guide compares 6 options to help you decide based on your specific technical requirements.
Our top pick: Asustor 6-Bay NAS with Quad M.2 NVMe Slots.
How each alternative compares
Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay NAS with 3TB SSD
This Asustor model comes with three 1TB SSDs included, offering immediate flash storage for caching or hybrid setups without buying drives separately. It shares the same six-bay layout and quad-core processor as the original, but adds PCIe expansion for 10GbE networking. You gain bundled speed but lose the flexibility of choosing your own NVMe drives. Choose this if you want a turnkey solution with pre-installed fast storage and higher network potential, rather than starting with a diskless chassis.
LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS
The LincPlus LincStation E1 reduces the form factor to four bays and uses 4GB of RAM instead of 8GB. It retains the quad-core processor and dual 2.5GbE ports, making it suitable for lighter media streaming and smaller file collections. You save space and potentially cost, but sacrifice drive capacity and multitasking headroom for virtualization. Pick this compact alternative if your storage needs stay under four drives and you do not require heavy Docker or virtual machine workloads.
Asustor Lockerstor 12-Bay Rackmount NAS
This 12-bay rackmount unit doubles the drive capacity while keeping the quad-core processor and 8GB RAM. It is designed for high-density storage needs rather than desktop convenience. You gain significant raw capacity and a professional rack form factor, but lose the compact desktop footprint and immediate plug-and-play ease. Select this option if you need maximum drive count for data-heavy tasks and have the infrastructure for rackmount equipment, rather than a simple home office setup.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
The QNAP TS-264 shrinks the design to two bays, significantly reducing storage capacity compared to the original six-bay model. It still features a quad-core Intel Celeron processor and dual 2.5GbE ports for fast networking. You gain a compact desktop footprint suitable for small offices, but lose the ability to store large media libraries or run multiple virtual machines simultaneously. Choose this smaller NAS if your data volume is low and you prioritize speed and size over high capacity.
Yxk 4-Bay Intel N100 NAS
This Yxk model uses an Intel N100 processor and includes 8GB of RAM, matching the original’s memory but with a different CPU architecture. It offers four bays and HDMI output, similar to the Asustor, but lacks the same expansion flexibility. You get efficient cooling and solid performance for Docker and media servers, but sacrifice the extra drive bays and PCIe upgrade paths. Opt for this if you prefer the Intel N100 platform and do not need the expanded storage or networking upgrades of the 6-bay model.
Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
The Asustor AS6806T retains the six-bay layout but upgrades RAM to 16GB and includes 10GbE networking ports instead of dual 2.5GbE. It uses an AMD Ryzen processor, offering different performance characteristics than the Intel Celeron. You gain double the memory for heavy virtualization and faster network speeds, but may face higher power consumption. Choose this model if your workflow demands high memory capacity and 10GbE connectivity, rather than the balanced entry-level specs of the original AS6706T.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Asustor 6-Bay NAS with Quad M.2 NVMe Slots
Best for: content creators needing hybrid NVMe storage
- Drive Bays
- 6-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: Asustor 6-Bay NAS with Quad M.2 NVMe Slots Affiliate link
This 6-bay hybrid network attached storage enclosure runs on an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor with 8GB of DDR4 memory. You get four dedicated M.2 NVMe SSD slots alongside six SATA drive bays for caching or storage pools. Dual 2.5GbE networking provides multi-gigabit speeds out of the box, with a PCIe slot available for 10GbE upgrades. It suits content creators managing 4K video transcoding and demanding multi-user storage workflows.
Pros
- Four M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching or high-speed storage pools
- Dual 2.5GbE network connectivity
- Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor with 4K hardware transcoding
- PCIe expansion slot for optional 10GbE network upgrade
- Memory expandable up to 16GB DDR4
Cons
- Requires optional PCIe card for 10GbE network speeds
- Maximum RAM capacity capped at 16GB
Good fit if
- You need four dedicated M.2 NVMe slots alongside six SATA drive bays.
- You plan to run 4K video streaming or local hardware transcoding.
- You want multi-gigabit 2.5GbE networking with an upgrade path to 10GbE.
Skip if
- You require built-in 10GbE ports without using a PCIe slot.
- You need more than 16GB of system RAM for heavy virtualization.
Verdict: Asustor 6-Bay Quad M.2 NVMe NAS delivers balanced hybrid capacity with four NVMe slots, dual 2.5GbE connectivity, and PCIe expansion. It handles multi-user file workflows and local 4K media transcoding effectively.
Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay NAS with 3TB SSD
Best for: turnkey flash caching and high-capacity expansion
- Drive Bays
- 6 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB DDR4-2933
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4X M.2 NVMe Slots
- Included Storage
- 3 x 1TB SSD
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay NAS with 3TB SSD Affiliate link
This 6-bay desktop NAS arrives bundled with three 1TB solid-state drives, giving you fast storage right out of the box. It features an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor, 8GB of DDR4 memory, dual 2.5GbE networking, and four M.2 NVMe slots for cache or extra flash storage. A PCIe slot allows network upgrades. It suits you if you want pre-packaged SSD capacity alongside six drive bays.
Pros
- Bundled with three 1TB NVMe SSDs
- Four dedicated M.2 NVMe slots supporting PCIe 3.0
- Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor with 8GB DDR4 RAM
- Dual 2.5GbE ports with Wake on LAN and Wake on WAN support
- PCIe expansion slot for 10GbE network cards or additional SSDs
Cons
- PCIe slot is shared between 10GbE network cards and extra SSDs
- 10GbE networking requires buying an optional expansion card
Good fit if
- You want a 6-bay NAS bundled with three 1TB SSDs.
- You need dual 2.5GbE networking with an option to expand to 10GbE via PCIe.
Skip if
- You prefer an unpopulated NAS so you can pick your own drives.
- You need built-in 10GbE ports without using the PCIe expansion slot.
Verdict: Asustor 6-Bay NAS with 3x 1TB SSDs combines six main drive bays with bundled flash drives and PCIe expansion flexibility. It delivers dependable quad-core processing and multi-gigabit networking for growing storage setups.
LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS
Best for: Home media and hybrid storage needs
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Quad-Core Cortex-A55
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The LincStation E1 is a 4-bay NAS with a quad-core 2.0GHz processor and 4GB RAM. It includes two SATA bays and two M.2 NVMe slots for hybrid storage. A 2.5GbE port and 4K HDMI output support fast networking and media playback. This device suits users who want local privacy and desktop-friendly design without subscription fees.
Pros
- Quad-core 2.0GHz processor with 4GB DDR4 RAM
- Hybrid 4-bay design with 2x SATA and 2x M.2 NVMe slots
- 2.5GbE network port for faster local transfers
- 4K HDMI 2.0 port for direct media playback
- 64GB eMMC storage for fast OS response
Cons
- Only 4 drive bays compared to 6-bay competitors
- No mention of dual 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports
- No USB 3.2 or eSATA ports listed for external expansion
Good fit if
- You want a compact NAS with dedicated media output
- You prefer local storage with no subscription fees
- You need fast NVMe caching alongside high-capacity SATA drives
Skip if
- You require 6 or more drive bays for large libraries
- You need dual 2.5GbE ports for link aggregation
- You prefer Intel or AMD desktop CPUs for x86 compatibility
Verdict: LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS is a solid choice for users who prioritize media playback and hybrid storage in a compact form factor, though it lacks the expansion options of larger 6-bay models.
Asustor Lockerstor 12-Bay Rackmount NAS
Best for: high-density rackmount storage needs
- Drive Bays
- 12 Bay
- Processor
- Intel Atom C3538
- RAM Capacity
- 8 GB DDR4-2133
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Form Factor
- Rackmount
- Network Connectivity
- 5GbE, 2.5GbE
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 12-Bay Rackmount NAS Affiliate link
This is a 12-bay rackmount NAS designed for high-density storage. It uses an Intel Atom C3538 quad-core CPU and includes 8 GB of DDR4 RAM. You get two Gigabit and two 2.5GbE ports for flexible networking. The unit supports virtualization and Docker. It fits well if you need significant drive capacity in a standard rack space.
Pros
- 12 drive bays for large storage arrays
- Intel Atom C3538 quad-core processor
- Two 2.5GbE and two Gigabit ports
- Supports Docker and virtual machines
Cons
- Heavy 25.8-pound build requires sturdy mounting
- Only 8 GB RAM base capacity
- No included internal storage drives
Good fit if
- You need maximum drive capacity in a rack
- You run virtualization or Docker workloads
- You have a dedicated server room
Skip if
- You need a compact desktop unit
- You require more than 8 GB RAM without upgrades
- You want included hard drives
Verdict: Asustor 12-Bay Rackmount NAS offers high density for data-heavy tasks. It suits users who prioritize drive count and rack form factor over immediate plug-and-play storage.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
Best for: Small home offices needing fast 2.5GbE speeds
- Drive Bays
- 2 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N5105/N5095
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-264 is a 2-bay desktop NAS featuring an Intel Celeron quad-core processor that bursts up to 2.9 GHz. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and dual 2.5GbE ports for fast network transfers. Two M.2 NVMe slots support cache acceleration or SSD storage pools. This unit suits users needing compact desktop storage with solid processing power and modern network connectivity.
Pros
- Intel Celeron quad-core CPU with 2.9 GHz burst speed
- 8GB DDR4 RAM for improved multitasking
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports for faster file sharing
- Dual M.2 NVMe slots for cache or storage pools
Cons
- Only 2 drive bays limit total storage capacity
- Lacks 10GbE networking for high-end throughput
- No HDMI output for direct desktop display
Good fit if
- You need a compact desktop unit for home office use
- You want fast 2.5GbE network speeds for media files
- You plan to use NVMe SSDs for caching
Skip if
- You require more than 2 drive bays
- You need 10GbE networking for heavy workloads
- You want a 4K HDMI output for direct display
Verdict: QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS delivers strong performance for small setups with its quad-core CPU and 2.5GbE ports. It is ideal for users who prioritize speed and NVMe flexibility in a compact form factor.
Yxk 4-Bay Intel N100 NAS
Best for: Home media servers and Docker projects
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel N100
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: Yxk 4-Bay Intel N100 NAS Affiliate link
The Yxk Zero1 Pro is a 4-bay NAS built around an Intel N100 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It features dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots for flexible storage expansion. The aluminum chassis includes dedicated cooling for sustained operation. This diskless unit suits home users needing a private cloud for photos and media without monthly fees.
Pros
- Intel N100 processor with 6W base power for efficient always-on use
- 8GB DDR4 RAM supports Docker apps and media server tasks
- Dual 2.5GbE ports allow link aggregation for faster network transfers
- Two M.2 NVMe slots support up to 2 x 8TB SSDs
- Aluminum housing with dual-fan cooling for heat dissipation
Cons
- Only four drive bays limit total capacity compared to 6-bay competitors
- Diskless design requires purchasing drives separately
- No 10GbE network option for high-speed professional workflows
Good fit if
- You need a compact NAS for family photo backups and home media
- You want Docker support for Plex or Home Assistant projects
- You prefer an aluminum chassis with dedicated drive cooling
Skip if
- You require more than four drive bays for large libraries
- You need pre-installed storage drives out of the box
- You require 10GbE networking for enterprise-level throughput
Verdict: Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS offers a capable Intel N100 platform and 8GB RAM for home media and Docker projects. It fits users who prioritize expandable NVMe storage and efficient cooling over maximum drive capacity.
Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
Best for: users needing 16GB RAM and 10GbE ports
- Drive Bays
- 6 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 5GbE, Dual 10GbE
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen Quad-Core 2.3 GHz
- RAM Capacity
- 16GB ECC DDR5
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4 M.2 NVMe Slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Affiliate link
The Asustor AS6806T is a 6-bay NAS drive powered by an AMD Ryzen quad-core processor running at 2.3 GHz. It stands out with 16GB of ECC DDR5 RAM and four M.2 NVMe slots for high-speed caching. You get dual 5GbE and dual 10GbE ports for flexible networking. This diskless unit offers substantial memory capacity compared to other options in this category.
Pros
- 16GB ECC DDR5 RAM capacity
- AMD Ryzen quad-core 2.3 GHz processor
- Four M.2 NVMe slots for caching
- Dual 5GbE and dual 10GbE network ports
Cons
- Sold diskless with no included storage
- Larger physical dimensions at 13 inches height
- Higher power consumption from 10GbE ports
Good fit if
- You need maximum RAM for virtualization tasks
- You require 10GbE connectivity for fast transfers
- You want ECC memory for data integrity
Skip if
- You want a NAS with pre-installed drives
- You need a compact desktop footprint
- You only require standard 1GbE speeds
Verdict: Asustor AS6806T 6-Bay NAS with 16GB RAM suits users who prioritize memory capacity and high-speed networking over included storage or compact size.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Asustor 6-Bay NAS with Quad M.2 NVMe Slots | Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay NAS with 3TB SSD | LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 12-Bay Rackmount NAS | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS | Yxk 4-Bay Intel N100 NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 6-Bay | 6 Bay | 4-Bay | 12 Bay | 2 Bay | 4-Bay | 6 Bay |
| Network Connectivity | Dual 2.5GbE | Dual 2.5GbE | 2.5GbE | not stated | Dual 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE | Dual 5GbE, Dual 10GbE |
| Processor | Intel Celeron N5105 | Intel Celeron N5105 | Quad-Core Cortex-A55 | Intel Atom C3538 | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 | Intel N100 | AMD Ryzen Quad-Core 2.3 GHz |
| RAM Capacity | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4-2933 | 4GB DDR4 | 8 GB DDR4-2133 | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 | 16GB ECC DDR5 |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | 4 slots | 4X M.2 NVMe Slots | 2 slots | not stated | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 | 2 slots | 4 M.2 NVMe Slots |
| Included Storage | Diskless | 3 x 1TB SSD | Diskless | Diskless | Diskless | Diskless | Diskless |
| RAID Support | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | RAID 0, 1, 5 | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | not stated | not stated | Rackmount | Desktop | not stated | not stated |
| Hardware Interface | M.2 NVMe, HDMI | M.2 NVMe | SATA, M.2 NVMe, HDMI | not stated | M.2 NVMe | M.2 NVMe | M.2 NVMe |
| Number of Bays | 6-Bay | 6-Bay | 4-Bay | 12-Bay | 2-Bay | 4-Bay | 6-Bay |
| Target Audience | Content Creators | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | not stated | Quad-Core |
| Dimensions | 2.76 × 3.61 × 3.57 inches | 13 × 12 × 13 inches | not stated | 21.1 × 17.3 × 3.46 inches | 13 × 9 × 11 inches | 9.2 × 7.9 × 6.3 inches | 13 × 12 × 13 inches |
| Weight | 10.8 pounds | 14.9 pounds | 2 pounds | 25.8 pounds | 5.11 pounds | 7.84 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 6 Bay | 3X1TB | not stated | 5.5"(W) x 7.5"(H) x 9.1"(D) | 2 Bay (Unav.) | 4-Bay | not stated |
| Color | black / black | not stated | not stated | AS6512RD | Clear | Black | not stated |
| Model | AS6706T | not stated | not stated | AS6512RD | TS-264-8G-US | not stated | AS6806T |
If you need different hardware specifications, you can compare midea 6 alternatives to evaluate other capacity configurations.
Frequently asked questions
Which NAS offers the most RAM for heavy multitasking?
The Asustor AS6806T provides 16GB of RAM, which is double the 8GB found in most other models on this list. This higher memory capacity supports more simultaneous applications and virtual machines. It also includes 10GbE ports for faster network throughput, making it ideal for users who prioritize memory and speed over included storage drives.
Is there a rackmount option for high-density storage?
Yes, the Asustor AS6512RD is a 12-bay rackmount NAS designed for high-density environments. It doubles the drive capacity of standard 6-bay units, offering 12 bays for extensive data storage. While it shares the quad-core processor and 8GB RAM of other Asustor models, its form factor suits server racks rather than desktop spaces.
What is the best compact choice for small home offices?
The QNAP TS-264 is a 2-bay desktop NAS that fits small spaces while delivering strong performance. It features a quad-core Intel Celeron processor and 2.5GbE connectivity for fast local transfers. This model is ideal for users who need NVMe flexibility and speed without the bulk of a 6-bay system or the cost of larger enclosures.
Which model includes SSDs for immediate flash caching?
The Asustor Lockerstor 6-Bay NAS with 3TB SSD comes bundled with three 1TB SSDs. These included drives allow for immediate flash caching or hybrid storage setups without purchasing additional hardware. It retains the six-bay layout and quad-core processing power, adding PCIe expansion options for enhanced networking flexibility in growing storage environments.
Can I find a NAS with an Intel N100 processor?
The Yxk Zero1 Pro features an Intel N100 processor paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination is well-suited for home media servers and Docker projects. It offers four drive bays and NVMe support, prioritizing efficient cooling and expandable storage over maximum drive capacity, making it a capable choice for specific home lab tasks.
Which alternative is best for budget-conscious home media users?
The LincPlus LincStation E1 is a 4-bay NAS positioned as a budget-friendly option for home media. It includes a quad-core processor, 4GB RAM, and HDMI output for direct playback. While it lacks the expansion options of larger 6-bay models, its compact form factor and hybrid storage capabilities make it suitable for users prioritizing media performance.