Best Synology Hard Drive Enclosures with 1GbE in 2026: 15 Picks
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Choosing a synology hard drive enclosure with 1GbE in 2026 gives you a centralized hub for local backups and everyday file sharing across standard networks. This guide compares 15 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings.
The Synology 2-Bay 24TB Desktop NAS leads the list by combining 24TB of storage with an Intel Celeron processor and dual 1GbE ports. This guide helps you decide which bay count, processor type, and storage capacity best fit your backup requirements.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need maximum pre-installed capacity in a two-bay desktop Synology 2-Bay 24TB Desktop NAS It provides 24TB of storage, an Intel Celeron processor, and dual 1GbE ports in a two-bay form factor.
- You need M.2 NVMe slots with multi-gigabit network support Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS It includes M.2 NVMe hardware interfaces, an AMD Ryzen processor, and 5GbE, 2.5GbE, and 1GbE connectivity.
- You need a 1U rackmount server with high memory Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 48TB It delivers a 1U 4-bay rackmount chassis equipped with 48TB of storage and 32GB of RAM.
- You want a diskless enclosure for your own drives Synology DS223 1GbE NAS It ships with 0TB capacity, 2GB of RAM, and a quad-core processor using 1GbE networking.
Our 15 picks
Synology 2-Bay 24TB Desktop NAS
Best for: Turnkey two-bay local backup and file management
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Celeron J4125
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 6GB DDR4
This two-bay Synology NAS comes configured with 24TB of storage via two 12TB SATA hard drives. You get an Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor paired with 6GB of DDR4 memory for handling file indexing and Synology Drive tasks. Dual 1GbE LAN ports deliver dedicated network connectivity for your local network. It suits you if you need pre-installed storage and efficient local data management at 15 watts operational power.
Pros
- Includes 24TB storage across two 12TB SATA hard drives
- Intel Celeron J4125 4-core processor boosting up to 2.7GHz
- Pre-installed 6GB DDR4 memory configuration
- Dual 1GbE LAN ports for network redundancy and management
- Low operational power usage down to 15 watts
Cons
- Limited to two drive bays
- Uses non-ECC SODIMM memory
- Network connectivity tops out at 1GbE
Good fit if
- You need pre-installed 24TB storage capacity without buying separate drives.
- You want dual 1GbE connections alongside a quad-core Intel Celeron processor.
- You prioritize low operational power consumption around 15 watts.
Skip if
- You need more than two drive bays for broader storage expansion.
- You require 2.5GbE or 10GbE network speeds for faster transfers.
- You need ECC memory for enterprise-level data integrity protection.
Verdict: Synology 2-Bay Celeron 24TB NAS delivers ready-to-use capacity with dual 1GbE networking and responsive quad-core processing. It is a capable, power-efficient central hub for local backups and Synology web applications.
Synology DiskStation 2-Bay 8TB NAS
Best for: ready-to-use low-power 1GbE network storage
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Celeron J4125
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 6GB DDR4
This Synology DiskStation desktop enclosure comes ready to run with 8TB of storage across two 4TB SATA drives. Inside, you get an Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor paired with 6GB of DDR4 memory, alongside dual 1GbE LAN ports for network connectivity. Operating at power levels as low as 15 watts, it suits you if you need a preconfigured, energy-efficient setup for central file management, media indexing, and regular backups.
Pros
- Includes 8TB of storage across two 4TB SATA drives
- Quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 processor with up to 2.7GHz turbo
- Equipped with 6GB of DDR4 memory
- Dual 1GbE LAN ports for wired networking
- Low operational power usage down to 15 watts
Cons
- No multi-gigabit LAN options beyond 1GbE
- Two-bay capacity limits internal drive expansion
- Equipped with non-ECC memory rather than ECC RAM
Good fit if
- You want preconfigured storage with two 4TB drives included.
- You prefer an energy-efficient system operating down to 15 watts.
- You rely on standard 1GbE network infrastructure.
Skip if
- You need faster network speeds like 2.5GbE or 10GbE.
- You require more than two drive bays for future storage expansion.
- You require ECC memory for error-correcting workflows.
Verdict: Synology DiskStation 8TB 2-Drive NAS delivers a capable quad-core Intel processor and pre-installed storage for efficient daily file management. It provides a balanced, low-power setup when standard 1GbE networking meets your network requirements.
Synology DiskStation 2-Bay 16TB NAS
Best for: ready-to-use 1GbE storage with low power draw
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Celeron J4125
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 6GB DDR4
This Synology network-attached storage unit arrives configured with 16TB of storage across two 8TB SATA drives and runs on a quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 processor. You get 6GB of DDR4 memory, dual 1GbE network ports, and an operational draw as low as 15 watts. It suits you if you need a pre-populated storage hub for file sharing, media libraries, Synology Photos indexing, and backups on a standard gigabit network.
Pros
- Includes 16TB storage via two pre-installed 8TB SATA hard drives
- Intel Celeron J4125 4-core processor boosting up to 2.7GHz
- Configured with 6GB DDR4 memory
- Dual 1GbE network ports
- Operational power usage as low as 15 watts
Cons
- Maximum network transfer capped at 1GbE speeds
- Uses non-ECC memory rather than error-correcting RAM
Good fit if
- You want a turnkey setup with 16TB of storage already installed.
- You need dual 1GbE connections for link management on a standard gigabit network.
- You require low operational power consumption down to 15 watts.
Skip if
- You require native 2.5GbE or 10GbE network interfaces for faster data transfers.
- You need ECC memory for critical data integrity.
Verdict: Synology DiskStation 16TB Celeron NAS provides ready-to-use capacity paired with balanced quad-core compute and 6GB of memory. It serves standard 1GbE home and office environments that prioritize power efficiency and integrated file management.
Synology DiskStation 8TB 2-Bay NAS
Best for: entry-level two-bay network backups and file sharing
- Network Connectivity
- 5GbE, 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 2-Bay
- Processor
- Intel Celeron J4125
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 2 GB DDR4
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45
The Synology DS225+ is a 2-bay NAS enclosure equipped with 8TB of storage and 1GbE network connectivity alongside a 5GbE port. Powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron processor and 2 GB of DDR4 memory, it supports Btrfs snapshots and Synology Hybrid RAID. You can expand the memory up to 6 GB. This enclosure suits you if you need a compact dual-drive setup for basic file storage and data backups.
Pros
- Quad-core Intel Celeron processor
- 1GbE and 5GbE network connectivity
- Memory expandable from 2 GB up to 6 GB
- Supports Synology Hybrid RAID and Btrfs snapshots
- Third-party drive support since DSM 7.3
Cons
- Limited to 2 drive bays
- Maximum memory capacity is 6 GB
- Ships with non-ECC memory
Good fit if
- You need an 8TB 2-bay enclosure with 1GbE and 5GbE networking.
- You want flexible drive arrays using Synology Hybrid RAID.
- You plan to run third-party storage drives on DSM 7.3.
Skip if
- You need more than two drive bays for storage expansion.
- You require error-correcting ECC memory or more than 6 GB of RAM.
Verdict: Synology DS225+ 2-Bay 8TB NAS delivers dual-bay storage with 1GbE connectivity, quad-core processing, and expandable memory for essential backup workloads.
Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
Best for: two-bay setups needing M.2 NVMe slots
- Network Connectivity
- 5GbE, 2.5GbE, 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 2-Bay
- Processor
- Ryzen R1600
- Processor Cores
- quad-core
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2x M.2 NVMe
This 2-bay desktop unit gives you network access through a 1GbE port alongside 2.5GbE and 5GbE connections. It comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen processor, 4GB of RAM, and two M.2 NVMe slots. The enclosure includes 8TB of storage and delivers up to 276 MB/s read speeds. It suits you if you need compact, expandable local network storage.
Pros
- Includes two M.2 NVMe slots
- Provides 1GbE, 2.5GbE, and 5GbE network connections
- AMD Ryzen processor paired with 4GB RAM
- Expands by five bays using a DX525 unit
Cons
- Chassis limited to two primary drive bays
- Unit weight is over 6.6 pounds
Good fit if
- You want integrated M.2 NVMe slots in a desktop enclosure.
- You need 1GbE compatibility alongside faster network ports.
- You plan to add bays later using a DX525 expansion unit.
Skip if
- You need more than two drive bays in the main chassis.
- You require more than 4GB of installed RAM immediately.
Verdict: Synology 2-Bay Ryzen NVMe NAS combines multi-gigabit and 1GbE networking with dual M.2 NVMe slots in a compact footprint. It provides reliable throughput and flexible drive expansion for your shared storage.
Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 48TB
Best for: small business rackmount edge storage and backups
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 4-bay
- Processor
- Ryzen R1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM
This 1U rackmount enclosure pairs an AMD Ryzen quad-core processor with 32GB of ECC DDR4 memory and 48TB of storage across four drives. It includes four 1GbE LAN ports to handle daily backups, file synchronization, and surveillance across your business network. It suits your deployment if you manage a branch office or small team and need large storage capacity with server-grade memory in a standard rack setup.
Pros
- Includes 48TB of storage across four 12TB SATA drives
- Equipped with 32GB DDR4 ECC memory
- Powered by an AMD Ryzen quad-core 2.2GHz processor
- Four 1GbE LAN ports for network redundancy and traffic management
- Compact 1U rackmount form factor
Cons
- Drives and memory upgrades require manual installation before use
- Networking tops out at 1GbE speeds across all four ports
- Requires a server rack rather than a desktop footprint
Good fit if
- You want a 1U rackmount enclosure bundled with 48TB of storage capacity.
- You need 32GB of ECC RAM for data integrity and multi-user services.
- You have a network setup configured around multiple 1GbE connections.
Skip if
- You prefer a standalone desktop tower instead of rackmount equipment.
- You require native multi-gigabit or 10GbE network interfaces.
- You want all hard drives and memory pre-installed out of the box.
Verdict: Synology 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 48TB delivers high storage capacity and 32GB of ECC RAM in a space-saving 1U chassis. It provides dependable 1GbE multi-port networking for branch offices and distributed edge deployments.
Synology 4-Bay 1U RackStation with 48TB
Best for: 1U rackmount setups needing 48TB capacity
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 4-bay
- Processor
- Ryzen R1600
- Processor Cores
- 2-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM
This 1U rackmount server equips your small business or home lab with 48TB of storage across four 12TB drives. It runs on a dual-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor paired with 2GB of DDR4 ECC memory and two 1GbE network ports. You get built-in tools for centralizing Office 365 backups and hosting private file sharing, making it a compact network storage choice for standard 1GbE rack setups.
Pros
- Includes 48TB of total capacity via four 12TB SATA drives
- Dual 1GbE LAN ports for network connectivity
- AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core processor reaching up to 3.1GHz turbo
- Space-saving 1U rackmount form factor
Cons
- Base configuration includes 2GB of RAM
- Hard drives arrive separately and require manual installation
Good fit if
- You need a 1U rackmount chassis with 48TB of bundled storage.
- You utilize standard 1GbE network infrastructure.
- You want centralized backup support for Office 365 and Google Workspace.
Skip if
- You require factory-installed hard drives ready to run immediately.
- You need more than 2GB of memory pre-installed out of the box.
Verdict: Synology 4-Bay 1U RackStation NAS with 48TB delivers high-capacity storage and dual 1GbE connectivity in a compact rackmount format. It handles localized data protection and cloud backups efficiently once you install the supplied drives.
Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 32GB RAM
Best for: 1U rack deployments needing high ECC RAM
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 4-bay
- Processor
- Ryzen R1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
View on Amazon: Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 32GB RAM
This 1U rackmount NAS server gives you an AMD Ryzen quad-core 2.2GHz processor, 32GB of ECC DDR4 memory, and four 1GbE network ports. It includes 8TB of storage split across four 2TB SATA solid-state drives. The four gigabit LAN ports support multi-client connections. This rackmount unit suits your small business or branch office if you need edge storage, endpoint backups, and rack deployment.
Pros
- Four 1GbE LAN ports for network connections
- AMD Ryzen 4-core 2.2GHz processor
- Pre-bundled with 32GB DDR4 ECC memory
- Includes four 2TB SATA solid-state drives
Cons
- Drives and memory upgrades require manual installation
- Four drive bays are already fully populated
- Network connectivity is limited to 1GbE base ports
Good fit if
- You need a compact 1U rackmount enclosure with four 1GbE ports.
- You want 32GB ECC memory for multi-endpoint data protection tasks.
- You run solid-state storage via four 2.5-inch SATA drives.
Skip if
- You want drives and memory pre-installed before delivery.
- You need native multi-gigabit or 10GbE network ports out of the box.
- You need a desktop tower form factor instead of a rackmount chassis.
Verdict: Synology 1U 4-Bay RackStation with 8TB SSD provides reliable rackmount performance with 32GB ECC RAM and four 1GbE connections. It serves edge storage deployments requiring multi-endpoint protection and solid-state drives.
Synology RackStation 12-Bay 216TB NAS
Best for: high-capacity rack storage with redundant power
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Ryzen V1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2
This rackmount NAS unit provides enterprise storage with 216TB raw capacity across twelve 18TB hard drives. You get an AMD Ryzen quad-core 2.2GHz processor, 32GB of ECC DDR4 memory, and redundant power supplies for continuous uptime. For networking, you connect using four 1GbE RJ-45 ports supporting Link Aggregation and failover. It fits your needs if you run intensive backup tasks or virtual machines needing high-capacity storage and hardware redundancy.
Pros
- Four 1GbE LAN ports with failover and Link Aggregation support
- Dual redundant power supplies prevent hardware downtime
- Includes twelve 18TB enterprise hard drives for 216TB raw storage
- 32GB ECC DDR4 memory paired with AMD Ryzen 2.2GHz processor
- Sliding rail kit included in the package
Cons
- Drives and memory upgrades ship uninstalled and require assembly
- Network connectivity is limited to 1GbE ports out of the box
Good fit if
- You require high-capacity 216TB storage with hardware power redundancy.
- You need four 1GbE ports with link aggregation for failover protection.
- You run virtual machines or multi-user file servers requiring 32GB ECC memory.
Skip if
- You want pre-assembled hardware that works straight out of the box.
- You need native 2.5GbE or 10GbE network interfaces without add-on cards.
Verdict: Synology 12-Bay RackStation NAS delivers substantial 216TB storage capacity and power supply redundancy for server roles over four 1GbE connections. Its quad-core Ryzen processor and 32GB ECC RAM handle demanding workloads, though you must assemble the drives and memory yourself.
Synology RackStation 12-Bay 48TB NAS
Best for: rackmount deployments needing redundant power and failover
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Ryzen V1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2
This rackmount server gives you 48TB of raw storage across twelve 4TB drives paired with an AMD Ryzen quad-core processor and 32GB of ECC memory. For networking, it provides four 1GbE LAN ports with failover and link aggregation support. It includes redundant power supplies and a sliding rail kit for server racks. You will find it well suited for high-capacity office backups, virtualization, and centralized file storage across local networks.
Pros
- Four 1GbE LAN ports with link aggregation and failover support
- 48TB of storage included via twelve 4TB hard drives
- Dual redundant power supplies for hardware protection
- Sliding rail kit included in the package
Cons
- Drives and memory upgrades require manual installation
- Network ports are limited to 1GbE base speeds
Good fit if
- You need 48TB of storage distributed across twelve drive bays.
- You require redundant power supplies and four link-aggregated 1GbE ports.
- You run memory-heavy workloads that benefit from 32GB of ECC RAM.
Skip if
- You want hard drives and memory pre-installed before delivery.
- You need out-of-the-box 2.5GbE or 10GbE network ports.
Verdict: Synology RackStation 48TB 4-Port 1GbE NAS delivers large capacity, memory, and dual power supplies for business backup tasks. You must assemble the drives and memory modules yourself prior to deployment.
Synology RackStation 12TB SSD NAS
Best for: rack deployments requiring power redundancy and uptime
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Ryzen V1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2
This Synology RackStation is a rackmount NAS configured with a quad-core Ryzen processor, 32GB ECC memory, and twelve 1TB SSDs. For networking, you get four 1GbE ports that support link aggregation and failover to keep your connections steady. Dual redundant power supplies prevent downtime if a power source fails. It suits you if you run multi-user backups, virtual machines, or office services requiring high uptime and continuous network availability.
Pros
- Four 1GbE LAN ports with link aggregation and failover support
- Dual redundant power supplies prevent hardware downtime
- 32GB DDR4 ECC memory paired with a 2.2GHz quad-core Ryzen CPU
- Includes sliding rack rail kit and twelve 1TB SATA SSDs
Cons
- Drives and memory ship uninstalled and require manual assembly
- Network connectivity is limited to standard 1GbE speeds
Good fit if
- You need redundant power supplies to maintain business continuity.
- You require four 1GbE ports to balance traffic across multiple workstations.
- You run memory-heavy network services requiring 32GB of ECC RAM.
Skip if
- You want a turnkey system with storage pre-installed in the bays.
- You need native multi-gigabit or 10GbE network interfaces.
Verdict: Synology RackStation 12TB SSD Redundant Power NAS delivers high uptime and ample ECC memory for rack deployments using multi-port 1GbE networks. It handles intensive office tasks and backups reliably, provided you do not mind installing the included drives and memory yourself.
Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 24TB Storage
Best for: rack deployments needing high-density storage and power redundancy
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Ryzen V1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2
View on Amazon: Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 24TB Storage
This rackmount NAS server gives you 24TB of raw storage across twelve 2TB drives, backed by an AMD Ryzen 4-core 2.2GHz processor and 32GB of ECC DDR4 memory. Four 1GbE LAN ports provide network failover and link aggregation, while redundant power supplies protect your uptime. If you manage centralized business backups, virtualization storage, or domain services and need high drive bay density on 1GbE infrastructure, this server fits your rack setup.
Pros
- Four 1GbE LAN ports with link aggregation and failover support
- Redundant power supplies built for high availability
- 32GB ECC DDR4 memory paired with AMD Ryzen 4-core 2.2GHz CPU
- Includes sliding rail kit and twelve 2TB hard drives
Cons
- Hard drives and RAM upgrades ship uninstalled and require manual installation
- Base networking is limited to 1GbE ports
Good fit if
- You need redundant power supplies to maintain high availability in a server rack.
- You want a 12-bay rackmount system bundled with 24TB total storage and 32GB RAM.
- You require four 1GbE ports for link aggregation across your local network.
Skip if
- You want drives and memory pre-installed out of the box.
- You prefer a compact desktop tower enclosure instead of a rackmount chassis.
Verdict: Synology RackStation 12-Bay 24TB NAS delivers high bay count, redundant power, and substantial ECC memory for rack-based business workloads. Its four 1GbE ports support failover and aggregation across standard enterprise networking.
Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 192TB Storage
Best for: High-capacity rackmount storage with power redundancy
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Ryzen V1500B
- Processor Cores
- 4-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2
View on Amazon: Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 192TB Storage
This rackmount Synology server pairs a quad-core 2.2GHz AMD Ryzen processor with 32GB of ECC DDR4 memory and 192TB of total raw storage across twelve 16TB drives. You get four 1GbE ports with link aggregation support and redundant power supplies for continuous uptime. It fits your needs if you run intensive multi-user backup tasks, file storage, or virtual machines in a server rack environment.
Pros
- Includes 192TB across twelve 16TB SATA hard drives
- Four 1GbE LAN ports supporting link aggregation and failover
- Dual redundant power supplies prevent unexpected downtime
- Comes with 32GB DDR4 ECC memory and a sliding rail kit
Cons
- Hard drives and memory arrive uninstalled and require manual setup
- Lacks native 10GbE networking out of the box
Good fit if
- You need massive rackmount capacity with 192TB of storage included.
- You require power supply redundancy for critical continuous uptime.
- You run heavy server duties like virtual machines and centralized backups.
Skip if
- You want drives and memory pre-installed inside the chassis.
- You require 10GbE network speeds right out of the box.
- You need a compact desktop enclosure rather than a full rack unit.
Verdict: Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 192TB delivers massive storage capacity and power redundancy for server rack installations. Its 32GB of ECC memory and quad 1GbE ports provide solid resources for demanding network tasks.
Synology 4-Bay 1U Rackmount NAS with 32TB
Best for: 1U rackmount small business and lab storage
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Number of Bays
- 4-bay
- Processor
- Ryzen R1600
- Processor Cores
- 2-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 2GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM
This 1U rackmount enclosure gives you a four-bay setup powered by a dual-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor and 2GB of DDR4 ECC memory. It includes four 8TB SATA hard drives for 32TB of raw storage, alongside two 1GbE LAN ports for network connectivity. If you need centralized backups and file sharing in a compact rack format for a home lab or small business, this configuration provides dedicated hardware.
Pros
- Includes four 8TB SATA 3.5-inch hard drives for 32TB total capacity
- Dual 1GbE LAN ports for network connections
- Dual-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor with up to 3.1GHz turbo
- Compact 1U rackmount form factor
- Equipped with 2GB DDR4 ECC memory
Cons
- Hard drives are shipped uninstalled and require manual installation
- Base system memory is limited to 2GB
- Processor features two cores rather than a quad-core layout
Good fit if
- You need a 1U rackmount enclosure that includes 32TB across four drive bays.
- You run a small business or home lab requiring dual 1GbE network ports.
- You want built-in support for Synology Drive, Hyper Backup, and Snapshot Replication.
Skip if
- You require pre-installed hard drives ready to run directly out of the box.
- You need more than 2GB of default memory for heavy multi-user workloads.
- You want a multi-gigabit network connection such as 2.5GbE or 10GbE.
Verdict: Synology 1U 4-Bay RackStation with 32TB Storage delivers compact rackmount storage with dual 1GbE ports and included drives for home labs or small offices. It offers a structured hardware setup for centralized backups and daily file management.
Synology DS223 1GbE NAS
Best for: basic home and small office data management
- Network Connectivity
- 1GbE (what this guide is about)
- Processor
- Realtek RTD1619B
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 2 GB DDR4
- Hardware Interface
- RJ-45, USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Dimensions
- 9.16 × 6.5 × 4.25 inches
The Synology DS223 is a compact network-attached storage enclosure designed for home and small office data management. It features a Realtek RTD1619B quad-core 1.7 GHz processor paired with 2 GB of non-ECC DDR4 memory. For local network connectivity, you get a single 1GbE LAN port alongside three USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports for external storage. This setup gives you a dedicated central hub for standard everyday file management.
Pros
- Realtek RTD1619B 4-core 1.7 GHz processor
- Three USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports for external devices
- Equipped with 2 GB DDR4 non-ECC system memory
- Dedicated 1GbE RJ-45 network connection
Cons
- Offers only a single 1GbE network port
- Memory is non-ECC and capped at 2 GB
- Base configuration includes 0TB of pre-installed storage
Good fit if
- You need a home or small office platform connected over standard 1GbE.
- You want multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports for connecting external drives.
- You plan to supply your own drives in a diskless 0TB enclosure.
Skip if
- You require multiple LAN ports for network link aggregation.
- You need error-correcting ECC system memory for critical tasks.
- You prefer an enclosure that arrives with pre-installed hard drives.
Verdict: Synology DS223 1GbE NAS delivers a straightforward data management platform with a quad-core processor and three USB ports for home or small office use. Its single 1GbE connection and 2 GB memory handle essential network storage without enterprise complexity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 2-Bay 24TB Desktop NAS | Synology DiskStation 2-Bay 8TB NAS | Synology DiskStation 2-Bay 16TB NAS | Synology DiskStation 8TB 2-Bay NAS | Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS | Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 48TB | Synology 4-Bay 1U RackStation with 48TB | Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 32GB RAM | Synology RackStation 12-Bay 216TB NAS | Synology RackStation 12-Bay 48TB NAS | Synology RackStation 12TB SSD NAS | Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 24TB Storage | Synology 12-Bay Rackmount NAS with 192TB Storage | Synology 4-Bay 1U Rackmount NAS with 32TB | Synology DS223 1GbE NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Bays | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 4-bay | 4-bay | 4-bay | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 4-bay | not specified |
| Processor | Celeron J4125 | Celeron J4125 | Celeron J4125 | Intel Celeron J4125 | Ryzen R1600 | Ryzen R1500B | Ryzen R1600 | Ryzen R1500B | Ryzen V1500B | Ryzen V1500B | Ryzen V1500B | Ryzen V1500B | Ryzen V1500B | Ryzen R1600 | Realtek RTD1619B |
| Processor Cores | 4-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | Quad-Core | quad-core | 4-Core | 2-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | 4-Core | 2-Core | Quad-Core |
| RAM Capacity | 6GB DDR4 | 6GB DDR4 | 6GB DDR4 | 2 GB DDR4 | 4GB | 32GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM | 2GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM | 2GB DDR4 ECC UDIMM | 2 GB DDR4 |
| Network Connectivity | 2 x 1GbE | 2 x 1GbE | 2 x 1GbE | 1 x 2,5 GbE, 1 x 1 GbE | 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE | 4 x 1GbE | 2 x 1GbE | 4 x 1GbE | 4 x RJ-45 1GbE | 4 x RJ-45 1GbE | 4 x 1GbE | 4 x 1GbE | 4 x 1GbE | 2 x 1GbE | 1GbE |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2x M.2 NVMe | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Hardware Interface | not specified | not specified | not specified | RJ-45 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | RJ-45, USB 3.2 | RJ-45, USB 3.2 | RJ-45, USB 3.2 | RJ-45, USB 3.2 | RJ-45, USB 3.2 | not specified | RJ-45, USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Size | not specified | not specified | 1U | 8TB | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1.75 inches | not specified | 24U | not specified | 24U x 24" x 36" | not specified | not specified | 0TB |
| Dimensions | not specified | not specified | not specified | 11.8 × 11 × 4.72 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 9.16 × 6.5 × 4.25 inches |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | not specified | 4.41 pounds | 6.61 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2.2 pounds |
| Color | black | black | black | Black | gray | Black | not specified | not specified | Black | not specified | Black | Black | Black | Black | No Drives |
| Model | not specified | not specified | not specified | DS225+/8TB-IW | DS725+/8TB-IW | not specified | not specified | not specified | RS2421RP+ | RS2421RP+ | RS2421RP+ | RS2421RP+ | RS2421RP+ | not specified | DS223 |
If you build a custom server instead, specifications for the best motherboards with 1GbE cover comparable network hardware.
Key Specs for Synology 1GbE Enclosures
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Processor Type and Workload
Examine the processor family specified on the product listing. Models equipped with Intel Celeron quad-core processors provide efficient daily file management, local backup scheduling, and low power consumption. Units built with AMD Ryzen processors deliver more processing throughput for edge deployments and demanding network services. The Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS features a Ryzen processor for higher workload capabilities. Choose Intel Celeron if you prioritize low power draw for basic storage tasks, or select AMD Ryzen when you run intensive background applications.
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Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Capabilities
Check the listed network connectivity specifications for speeds beyond standard 1GbE. Standard enclosures feature 1GbE network ports suited for regular local network transfers and internet backups. Several models add integrated 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports to communicate with higher-speed switches without requiring expansion cards. The Synology DiskStation 8TB 2-Bay NAS includes 5GbE alongside 1GbE connectivity. If your local router or switch supports multi-gigabit connections, pick an enclosure with 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports to avoid data transfer bottlenecks.
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Storage Drive Media Types
Review the media type included with the storage enclosure. Most configurations supply high-capacity mechanical hard drives, which offer large volumes of storage space for backups and media archives. Other configurations come pre-loaded with solid-state drives for faster access times and silent operation. The Synology RackStation 12TB SSD NAS includes solid-state drives instead of mechanical spinning disks. Choose solid-state storage if your environment demands fast access with zero drive vibration, or choose spinning hard drives when you need higher overall terabyte capacity.
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Factory Storage Versus Diskless Models
Determine whether you want an enclosure with pre-installed drives or a diskless chassis. Pre-configured systems include matched drives with total capacities ranging from 8TB up to 216TB, allowing you to configure storage pools right away. In contrast, diskless units ship with 0TB of internal storage, leaving drive sourcing and compatibility matching to you. The Synology DS223 ships as a 0TB enclosure without drives. Select a pre-installed package for immediate setup, or buy a diskless unit if you prefer sourcing your own drives.
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Power Redundancy for High Uptime
Check whether the unit provides dual redundant power supplies. Desktop models and compact rack units feature a single power input, meaning any electrical adapter failure stops the enclosure. Higher-end rackmount systems include dual power supplies that draw power simultaneously and prevent shutdowns if an electrical feed or internal module fails. The Synology RackStation 12-Bay 48TB NAS provides dual power supplies on its hardware specification sheet. Choose a redundant power model if you place your enclosure into a mission-critical office environment that requires continuous uptime.
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Chassis Form Factor and Dimensions
Examine the physical dimensions and mounting specifications before choosing your unit. Desktop units feature compact footprints that sit directly on a desk or shelf. Rackmount models require dedicated server cabinets and specify their vertical height in rack units. For example, a 1U chassis occupies 1.75 inches of vertical rack height, making it suitable for shallow network racks. The Synology 1U 4-Bay Rackmount NAS with 32TB provides a shallow 1U rackmount format. Verify your available rack depth and cabinet space before ordering rack-mounted hardware.
Frequently asked questions
Can you connect a Synology 1GbE enclosure to faster network switches?
Yes, you can connect these enclosures to faster switches because Ethernet standards are backward compatible. In addition, select models like the DS225+ and DS725+ feature multi-gigabit connectivity such as 2.5GbE and 5GbE alongside standard 1GbE ports. When plugged into a 1GbE port, data transfers at standard Gigabit speeds, while multi-gigabit ports allow higher throughput if your network infrastructure supports it.
Do Synology 1GbE enclosures come with pre-installed drives or empty bays?
Both configurations exist depending on the specific model you choose. For example, the Synology DS223 arrives diskless with 0TB of storage so you supply your own drives. Other options arrive ready to deploy with factory drives installed, ranging from 8TB desktop models to 216TB rackmount configurations, as well as configurations equipped with dedicated 8TB or 12TB solid-state drives.
What is the advantage of multiple 1GbE network ports on these enclosures?
Multiple network ports provide connection redundancy and network aggregation across your local infrastructure. Several rackmount options, including the RS2421RP+ series, provide four 1GbE ports, while compact 1U systems include dual 1GbE interfaces. Having more than one port allows you to maintain an active connection if a cable or switch port fails, and it enables link aggregation to balance traffic across multiple users.
Which Synology 1GbE enclosures support M.2 NVMe drives?
Enclosures specifically engineered with M.2 hardware interfaces support NVMe drives. In this lineup, the Synology DS725+ two-bay enclosure features dual M.2 NVMe slots alongside its standard drive bays and multi-gigabit networking. These dedicated slots allow you to install high-speed NVMe solid-state drives for caching or storage pool expansion without sacrificing either of the primary 3.5-inch drive bays.
Why do some rackmount Synology enclosures feature ECC memory?
Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory detects and corrects internal data corruption to protect mission-critical operations. Models like the 12-bay RS2421RP+ and select 1U rackmount units include 32GB of ECC RAM. This specification prevents memory errors during continuous file access, large database management, or multi-client edge storage backups, making it suitable for high-density rack deployments where system stability is essential.
How do redundant power supplies work on rackmount Synology models?
Redundant power supplies protect your NAS from unexpected power loss by providing two independent power modules inside the chassis. The Synology RS2421RP+ uses dual power supplies that run concurrently. If one power source, cord, or internal power module experiences a failure, the secondary unit takes over the operational load instantly, keeping your storage pool online without system downtime.
What is the physical difference between desktop and rackmount Synology units?
Desktop units are compact enclosures designed for shelves or desks, whereas rackmount models fit standard server racks. For instance, the desktop DS223 weighs 2.20 pounds with a height of 4.25 inches, making it easy to position in small workspaces. In contrast, rackmount models like 1U RackStations or 24U-compatible RS2421RP+ units are built for rack depth, rails, and centralized equipment closets.