Best Synology NAS Devices with 4GB RAM in 2026: 6 Picks
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Finding the best synology NAS devices with 4GB RAM requires comparing specific hardware metrics. The Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS leads this list because its 4GB RAM and four drive bays provide a solid foundation for scalable home or office storage. We analyzed 6 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings. This guide helps you decide which device matches your capacity and performance needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS Best overall | Scalable 4-bay home or office storage | Check price of Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS on Amazon |
| 2 | Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS Also great | Rackmount users needing high capacity | Check price of Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS on Amazon |
| 3 | Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS Also great | High-capacity storage expansion needs | Check price of Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS on Amazon |
| 4 | Synology 4-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Best budget | Expandable 4-bay storage needs | Check price of Synology 4-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS on Amazon |
| 5 | Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS Best premium | Users needing ECC RAM and dual 2.5GbE ports | Check price of Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS on Amazon |
| 6 | Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Best m.2 nvme | Small offices needing NVMe caching | Check price of Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need a scalable 4-bay system for home use Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS The DS920+ offers 4GB RAM and a compact 7.83-inch width for expandable storage.
- You require high capacity in a rackmount enclosure Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS The RS1221+ provides 8 bays and 4GB RAM in a 23-inch deep rack unit.
- You need extensive drive capacity for significant scaling Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS The DS2422+ features 12 bays and 4GB RAM to handle large storage expansion.
- You want small offices with NVMe caching options Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS The DS725+ includes M.2 NVMe support and 4GB RAM in a 2-bay design.
Our 6 picks
Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS
Best for: Scalable 4-bay home or office storage
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Processor
- Intel quad-core
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 8.78 × 7.83 × 6.54 inches
- Weight
- 4.94 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS Affiliate link
The Synology DS920+ is a 4-bay NAS with 4 GB of DDR4 RAM. It uses an Intel quad-core CPU for over 225 MB/s throughput. Two M.2 NVMe slots allow cache acceleration. It scales to 9 drives with an expansion unit. This model suits users needing balanced performance and expandability for home or small office storage.
Pros
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
- Intel quad-core CPU with AES-NI encryption
- Two M.2 NVMe SSD slots for cache
- Over 225 MB/s sequential read/write speed
Cons
- Sold diskless with no included storage
- Limited to 4 internal drive bays
- No mention of dual 2.5GbE ports
Good fit if
- You need expandable storage up to 9 drives
- You want hardware encryption for data security
- You plan to add NVMe cache drives
Skip if
- You require pre-installed hard drives
- You need more than 4 internal bays
- You want faster than 1GbE networking
Verdict: Synology DS920+ 4-Bay NAS offers solid performance for users who value expandability and cache acceleration. It fits those building a scalable storage system from scratch.
Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS
Best for: Rackmount users needing high capacity
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 8 Bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 23 × 16.5 × 8.5 inches
View on Amazon: Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS Affiliate link
The Synology 8-Bay RackStation RS1221+ is a diskless NAS designed for multi-user environments. It features 4GB of RAM and delivers up to 2,315 MB/s read speeds. This unit has a compact depth of 298 mm, making it suitable for tight rack spaces. You can expand network performance with PCIe cards. It supports high availability clustering for service uptime.
Pros
- 8-bay capacity for large storage arrays
- 4GB RAM for multi-user tasks
- Up to 2,315 MB/s read performance
- Compact 298 mm depth for racks
- Supports SHA clustering for uptime
Cons
- Sold diskless with no included drives
- Larger footprint than 4-bay desktop models
- Requires separate PCIe cards for 10GbE
Good fit if
- You need high capacity in a rack
- You require fast read speeds
- You want cluster redundancy options
Skip if
- You prefer a desktop form factor
- You want drives included
- You need built-in 10GbE ports
Verdict: Synology 8-Bay RackStation RS1221+ Diskless suits users needing high capacity in a rack with fast read speeds. It fits those who want cluster redundancy options.
Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS
Best for: High-capacity storage expansion needs
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 12-Bay
- Processor
- Quad Core
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 18.5 × 17 × 16.5 inches
- Weight
- 20.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS Affiliate link
This 12-bay Synology NAS offers 4GB of DDR4 RAM and a quad-core processor. It delivers up to 2,201 MB/s read speeds. You can expand storage to 24 bays using a DX1222 unit. The device supports up to 32GB of memory and 10/25GbE networking. It is designed for users needing high capacity and performance. The unit is diskless and weighs 20.9 pounds.
Pros
- 12 drive bays for large storage arrays
- Up to 2,201 MB/s sequential read speed
- Expandable to 24 bays with DX1222 unit
- Supports up to 32GB RAM upgrade
Cons
- Large physical footprint at 18.5 inches long
- Heavy at 20.9 pounds
- Diskless design requires separate drive purchase
Good fit if
- You need high capacity for many drives
- You plan to expand storage later
- You require fast sequential read speeds
Skip if
- You have limited desk or rack space
- You want a compact desktop solution
- You prefer a pre-loaded storage device
Verdict: Synology 12-Bay DS2422+ NAS is ideal for users who need extensive drive capacity and high performance. It suits those planning to scale their storage significantly over time.
Synology 4-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
Best for: Expandable 4-bay storage needs
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay (up to 9-Bay)
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen V1500B
- Dimensions
- 11.4 × 10.2 × 9.45 inches
- Weight
- 4.98 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Affiliate link
The Synology DS925+ is a 4-bay NAS drive powered by an AMD Ryzen V1500B processor and 4GB of RAM. It offers sequential read speeds up to 522 MB/s and write speeds up to 565 MB/s. You get dual 2.5GbE ports for flexible networking. The unit supports expansion to 9 bays using the DX525. It handles file management, virtualization, and surveillance tasks well.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen V1500B processor
- 4GB DDR4 RAM capacity
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports
- Up to 565 MB/s write speed
- Expandable to 9 bays
Cons
- Limited to 4GB RAM
- Requires Synology branded drives for full speed
- Standard 3-year warranty
Good fit if
- You need fast 2.5GbE networking
- You want to expand storage later
- You run virtualization or surveillance
Skip if
- You require more than 4GB RAM
- You need 10GbE connectivity
- You prefer non-Synology drives
Verdict: Synology DS925+ 4-Bay NAS suits users who need expandable storage and fast networking. It fits those running virtualization or surveillance workloads.
Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS
Best for: Users needing ECC RAM and dual 2.5GbE ports
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- 16TB
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS Affiliate link
The Synology DS925+ is a 4-bay NAS featuring an AMD Ryzen V1500B processor and 4 GB of DDR4 ECC RAM. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots. This bundle comes with 16 TB of storage. It suits users needing expandable capacity and reliable data management for small business environments or advanced home setups.
Pros
- 4 GB DDR4 ECC RAM for stability
- AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for caching
Cons
- 13.2 pound weight is heavier than smaller units
- Limited to four internal drive bays
- No 10GbE connectivity included
Good fit if
- You need ECC memory for data integrity
- You want to expand storage with NVMe drives
- You require dual 2.5GbE network connections
Skip if
- You only need two drive bays
- You require 10GbE networking speeds
- You prefer a lighter, more compact device
Verdict: The Synology DS925+ 4-Bay NAS offers robust performance with its Ryzen processor and ECC RAM. It is best for users who need expandable storage and reliable networking for serious data tasks.
Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
Best for: Small offices needing NVMe caching
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE
- Processor
- Ryzen R1600
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- 8TB
View on Amazon: Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Affiliate link
The Synology DS725+ is a compact 2-bay NAS drive featuring a quad-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor and 4GB of RAM. It includes two M.2 NVMe slots for fast caching or storage expansion. Network connectivity combines a 2.5GbE port with a standard 1GbE port. This unit suits small offices or home users needing efficient data management and media streaming without occupying excessive desk space.
Pros
- Quad-core AMD Ryzen R1600 processor for smooth multitasking
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for flexible storage configuration
- 4GB RAM capacity supports responsive performance
- Dual network ports including 2.5GbE for faster transfers
Cons
- Only two drive bays limit maximum storage expansion
- Single 2.5GbE port restricts high-speed network redundancy
- Heavier build at 6.61 pounds compared to lighter drives
Good fit if
- You need fast NVMe caching for a small setup
- You want a compact unit for home or small office use
- You require 4GB RAM for stable multitasking
Skip if
- You need more than two internal drive bays
- You require dual 2.5GbE ports for link aggregation
- You prefer a diskless unit for maximum flexibility
Verdict: Synology DS725+ 2-Bay Ryzen NAS fits users who prioritize NVMe expansion and compact design over high bay count. It delivers solid performance for small teams but lacks the port density of larger rack units.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 4-Bay Intel Quad-Core NAS | Synology 8-Bay Short-Depth Rackmount NAS | Synology 12-Bay Quad-Core NAS | Synology 4-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS | Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS | Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 4-Bay | 8 Bay | 12-Bay | 4-Bay (up to 9-Bay) | 4-Bay | 2-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2x 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE | 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE |
| Processor | Intel quad-core | not stated | Quad Core | AMD Ryzen V1500B | AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core | Ryzen R1600 |
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | not stated | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB | 4 GB DDR4 ECC | 4GB |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2 slots | 2 slots |
| Included Storage | Diskless | Diskless | Diskless | not stated | 16TB | 8TB |
| Hardware Interface | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | M.2 NVMe |
| Number of Bays | 4-Bay | 8-Bay | 12-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 2-Bay |
| Processor Cores | not stated | not stated | Quad-Core | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 8.78 × 7.83 × 6.54 inches | 23 × 16.5 × 8.5 inches | 18.5 × 17 × 16.5 inches | 11.4 × 10.2 × 9.45 inches | not stated | 8.78 × 4.17 × 6.54 inches |
| Weight | 4.94 pounds | not stated | 20.9 pounds | 4.98 pounds | 13.2 pounds | 6.61 pounds |
| Size | DS920+ | RS1221+ | 12-bay; 4GB DDR4 | 29 cm x 26 cm x 25 cm | 16TB | 6.54 inches H x 4.17 inches W x 8.78 inches D |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | black | not stated | gray |
| Model | DS920+ | RS1221+ | DS2422+ | DS925+ | DS925+/8TB-IW | DS725+/8TB-IW |
How to choose the right one
-
Match the form factor
Your physical space dictates the chassis type. The DS920+ and DS925+ are desktop units measuring roughly 8 to 11 inches wide. They fit on shelves or desks. The RS1221+ is a rackmount unit. It is 23 inches deep and requires a server rack. Choose desktop models for home offices. Select rackmount designs for dedicated server rooms. Ensure your location has the necessary clearance for the chosen dimensions.
-
Select the bay count
Drive bays determine your maximum storage capacity. The DS920+ and DS925+ offer four bays. This suits most home users and small teams. The DS725+ provides two bays for compact setups. The RS1221+ includes eight bays for higher density. The DS2422+ expands to twelve bays for large datasets. Start with the number of drives you plan to install. You can often expand later using compatible expansion units.
-
Check the processor type
The CPU handles data processing and virtualization tasks. The DS920+ uses an Intel quad-core processor. It provides reliable performance for standard file storage. The DS925+ and DS725+ feature AMD Ryzen processors. These chips offer strong multi-threaded performance for virtual machines. The DS2422+ also utilizes a quad-core design. Match the processor to your workload. Choose Intel for general stability. Select AMD Ryzen for demanding virtualization or surveillance applications.
-
Verify network connectivity
Network ports affect transfer speeds and redundancy. The DS725+ includes 5GbE and 2.5GbE ports. It also retains a standard 1GbE port. The DS925+ offers dual 2.5GbE connectivity. These ports allow faster local file transfers. Standard gigabit ports are sufficient for basic backup tasks. Ensure your router or switch supports the higher speeds. Upgrading your network infrastructure maximizes the benefit of these faster interfaces.
-
Consider cache options
NVMe slots improve read and write speeds. The DS725+ features M.2 NVMe hardware interfaces. You can install SSDs for caching or storage pools. This accelerates access to frequently used files. The other models in this list do not explicitly list NVMe slots in their attributes. If you need high-speed caching, the DS725+ is the clear choice. Otherwise, rely on the standard SATA drive speeds for your primary storage needs.
Frequently asked questions
Which Synology NAS is best for home users with 4GB RAM?
The Synology DS920+ is the top pick for home users. It features a compact 4-bay design and 4GB of RAM. This setup supports scalable storage for personal media or office files. Its small footprint fits easily on desks or shelves, making it ideal for residential environments.
Can I use these NAS drives for virtualization?
Yes, the DS925+ is well-suited for virtualization workloads. It includes an AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of RAM. This combination handles multiple virtual machines efficiently. You can also expand storage as your virtual environment grows, ensuring the system remains responsive under heavier computational loads.
What is the difference between the DS920+ and DS925+?
The DS920+ uses an Intel quad-core processor, while the DS925+ features an AMD Ryzen chip. Both include 4GB of RAM and four drive bays. The DS925+ offers enhanced networking options, including dual 2.5GbE ports. This makes it better for faster local network transfers compared to the DS920+.
Are there rackmount options with 4GB RAM available?
The Synology RS1221+ is a rackmount option with 4GB of RAM. It provides eight drive bays for high-capacity storage needs. This model fits standard server racks and offers fast read speeds. It is designed for users who require cluster redundancy and significant storage expansion in a professional setting.
Does the DS2422+ support NVMe caching?
The DS2422+ is a 12-bay NAS with 4GB of RAM. It is designed for extensive drive capacity and high performance. While the data highlights its scalability, other models like the DS725+ explicitly support M.2 NVMe expansion. You should check specific model specs if NVMe caching is a primary requirement.
Is ECC RAM included in these Synology models?
The DS925+ 4-Bay NAS offers ECC RAM for data integrity. This feature is beneficial for serious data tasks and surveillance workloads. Other models in the list, such as the DS920+, do not explicitly list ECC support in the provided data. You should verify the specific memory type for each unit.
Which model is best for small offices needing NVMe?
The Synology DS725+ is ideal for small offices requiring NVMe caching. It features an AMD Ryzen processor, 4GB of RAM, and M.2 NVMe support. This compact 2-bay unit delivers solid performance for small teams. It prioritizes expansion speed over the high bay count found in larger rack units.