Intel Celeron vs Intel Core NAS Devices: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between an intel celeron vs intel core NAS device depends on your storage needs and processing power. Both units offer modern connectivity, including dual 2.5GbE ports and M.2 NVMe slots for caching. The main difference lies in capacity and compute strength. One provides a compact 2-bay solution with efficient quad-core processing. The other delivers a robust 4-bay chassis with an 8-core processor and significantly more memory.
Key differences
| Aspect | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron Quad-core | Intel Core i3-N305 8-Core |
| Number of Bays | 2-Bay | 4-Bay |
| RAM Capacity | 8GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 |
| Form Factor | Desktop | Desktop |
| Network Connectivity | Dual 2.5GbE | Dual 2.5GbE |
Which one should you choose?
Choose QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS if
- You need a compact unit for essential file sharing and media streaming.
- You prefer a quad-core processor that balances performance with energy efficiency.
- You have limited space and only require two drive bays.
Choose TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM if
- You require high performance for virtual machines, databases, or heavy multitasking.
- You want to install four hard drives for greater storage capacity.
- You need 32GB of DDR5 RAM to support demanding applications.
Verdict: The QNAP TS-264 is ideal for users who prioritize a smaller footprint and sufficient power for daily tasks. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro suits those who need maximum storage density and heavy-duty processing capabilities. Select the model that aligns with your specific bay count and RAM requirements.
Celeron vs Core NAS Specs
Processor power
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro uses an Intel Core i3-N305 with eight cores and eight threads, boosting up to 3.8 GHz. This setup delivers significantly higher multi-thread performance for heavy workloads. The QNAP TS-264 relies on a quad-core Intel Celeron N5105/N5095, which peaks at 2.9 GHz. While the Celeron handles basic file sharing and light virtualization well, the Core processor offers a clear advantage for demanding tasks like transcoding multiple streams or running complex containerized applications simultaneously.
Memory capacity
RAM plays a critical role in application speed and caching efficiency. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro comes equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 memory running at 4800 MHz, providing ample space for large caches and virtual machines. In contrast, the QNAP TS-264 includes 8 GB of DDR4 RAM. This difference is substantial, as the larger and faster DDR5 pool in the TerraMaster allows for smoother multitasking and faster database responses, whereas the QNAP may require more careful resource management for intensive operations.
Storage bays
Capacity needs dictate the choice of enclosure size. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is a four-bay device, allowing you to install four hard drives for greater total storage volume or more flexible RAID configurations like RAID 5 or 6. The QNAP TS-264 is a two-bay unit, limiting you to two drives. If you need more than two drives for your data or redundancy, the TerraMaster provides the necessary physical slots without requiring an additional chassis.
Network connectivity
Both NAS devices feature dual 2.5GbE ports, offering identical baseline network bandwidth for file transfers and media streaming. This configuration supports link aggregation to reach 5 GbE speeds, benefiting both units equally in terms of raw throughput potential. Neither device includes 10GbE ports in their standard specifications. For most users, the dual 2.5GbE setup on both the QNAP and TerraMaster provides sufficient speed for local network access and remote file sharing.
SSD caching options
Both units support M.2 NVMe SSDs for caching or dedicated storage pools. The QNAP TS-264 includes dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 slots, enabling you to add fast NVMe drives for read/write caching or storage tiers. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro also features dual M.2 NVMe slots. Both designs allow you to accelerate access to frequently used files or create high-speed storage volumes. The implementation details differ slightly, but both offer the same core functionality for SSD integration.
Physical dimensions
Size and weight matter for placement in your home or office. The QNAP TS-264 is a desktop unit measuring 9 inches wide, 11 inches high, and 13 inches long, weighing 5.11 pounds. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is more compact, measuring 7.05 inches wide, 6.06 inches high, and 8.74 inches long, while weighing 4.2 pounds. The TerraMaster takes up less desk space and is lighter, making it easier to fit into smaller enclosures or shelves.
Which NAS fits your needs?
Small business users needing high throughput
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro features an eight-core Intel Core i3-N305 processor with 32GB of DDR5 RAM. This configuration supports demanding workloads and faster application response times. Its 4-bay capacity accommodates more drives for larger storage pools, making it ideal for growing business environments requiring robust compute power and data redundancy options.
Users prioritizing PCIe expansion flexibility
The QNAP TS-264 includes a PCIe Gen3 x2 expansion slot. This allows you to install network cards or QM2 cards for added functionality. While it uses a quad-core Intel Celeron processor with 8GB of RAM, the expansion capability provides greater versatility for custom network setups compared to the fixed configuration of the competing model.
Those needing maximum storage capacity
If you require more drive bays, the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro offers a 4-bay design. This doubles the drive capacity of the 2-bay QNAP TS-264. The additional space allows for larger RAID arrays or JBOD configurations, providing greater total storage volume for media libraries or extensive file backups without needing external expansion enclosures.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS | Fast 2.5GbE transfers and NVMe caching | Check price of QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS on Amazon |
| 2 | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM | High-performance workloads requiring 32GB RAM | Check price of TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM on Amazon |
The products compared
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
Best for: Fast 2.5GbE transfers and NVMe caching
- Processor
- Intel Celeron (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 2 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 2.5GbE
- 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 powered by an Intel Celeron quad-core processor. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and dual 2.5GbE ports for fast network transfers. Two M.2 NVMe slots allow for cache acceleration or SSD storage pools. This device suits users needing reliable performance for media and file sharing without the bulk of a 4-bay system.
Pros
- Intel Celeron quad-core processor with up to 2.9 GHz burst speed
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports for accelerated file sharing
- 8GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
- Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 NVMe slots for cache or storage
Cons
- Only 2 drive bays limit total storage capacity
- No mention of included hard drives for immediate use
- Single PCIe expansion slot restricts hardware upgrades
Good fit if
- You need fast 2.5GbE network speeds for large files
- You want to use NVMe SSDs for caching
- You prefer a compact 2-bay desktop form factor
Skip if
- You require more than 2 drive bays
- You need a 4-bay chassis like the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro
- You want to expand with multiple PCIe cards
Verdict: QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Intel Celeron NAS delivers solid performance for users who prioritize network speed and NVMe caching in a compact 2-bay design. It is ideal for those who do not need the higher capacity of a 4-bay system.
TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM
Best for: High-performance workloads requiring 32GB RAM
- Processor
- Intel Core (what this guide is about)
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2 x 2.5GbE
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB DDR5 4800MHz
- 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 driven by an Intel Core i3-N305 8-core processor. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM, which is not upgradable. The unit features dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots for caching. This setup delivers high throughput for small business users or power users who need fast application response and large memory capacity for heavy workloads.
Pros
- Intel Core i3-N305 8-core CPU with 3.8GHz turbo speed
- 32GB DDR5 4800MHz non-ECC RAM
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching
- Dual USB 3.2 10Gbps interfaces
Cons
- RAM is non-upgradable
- RAM is non-ECC
- Diskless design requires separate drive purchase
Good fit if
- You need high memory capacity for virtualization or heavy apps
- You want fast multi-user file access via 2.5GbE
- You require SSD caching for improved database or photo retrieval speed
Skip if
- You need ECC memory for critical data integrity
- You want a pre-loaded storage solution
- You require RAM expansion options
Verdict: TerraMaster F4-424 Pro 4-Bay NAS suits users who prioritize raw processing power and large RAM capacity for demanding tasks. It is ideal for those building a high-performance storage server who do not need ECC memory or future RAM upgrades.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS | TerraMaster 4-Bay NAS with 32GB RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 2 Bay | 4-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | Dual 2.5GbE | 2 x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 | Intel Core i3-N305 |
| RAM Capacity | 8GB DDR4 | 32GB DDR5 4800MHz |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 | 2 slots |
| Included Storage | Diskless | Diskless |
| RAID Support | not stated | RAID 0 |
| Form Factor | Desktop | not stated |
| Hardware Interface | M.2 NVMe | not stated |
| Number of Bays | 2-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | 8-Core |
| Dimensions | 13 × 9 × 11 inches | 8.74 × 7.05 × 6.06 inches |
| Weight | 5.11 pounds | 4.2 pounds |
| Size | 2 Bay (Unav.) | 4Bay, 8-Core CPU, 32GB RAM, F4-424 Pro |
| Color | Clear | Black |
| Model | TS-264-8G-US | F4-424 Pro |
Frequently asked questions
Is an Intel Celeron processor enough for a home NAS?
Yes, for most home users. The QNAP TS-264 uses a quad-core Intel Celeron processor. It handles standard file storage and media streaming well. It also supports fast 2.5GbE network transfers. This makes it suitable for small offices or homes with moderate data needs.
Can an Intel Core NAS run multiple virtual machines?
It depends on the RAM. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro includes 32GB of RAM. Its eight-core Intel Core processor provides strong multi-thread performance. This setup supports demanding tasks and heavier workloads better than lower-end models. It is ideal for users building a high-performance storage server.
Which NAS has better network connectivity for large files?
The QNAP TS-264 offers superior network options. It features both 5GbE and 2.5GbE ports. This allows for faster data transfers compared to standard Gigabit connections. If you move large files frequently, this connectivity speed helps reduce transfer times significantly for your data.
Does the Celeron NAS support NVMe caching?
Yes, it does. The QNAP TS-264 includes an M.2 NVMe hardware interface. You can add NVMe drives to cache frequently accessed data. This speeds up read and write operations. It is a key feature for users prioritizing speed in a compact 2-bay design.
How many drives can the TerraMaster NAS hold?
It holds four drives. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is a 4-bay unit. This capacity accommodates more drives than 2-bay systems. It is ideal for users who need more storage space without expanding to larger rack-mounted solutions. It suits those building a robust storage server.
Is the Intel Core NAS better for video editing?
It offers more processing power. The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro uses an eight-core processor. This delivers higher multi-thread performance for heavy workloads. If you edit video or run complex applications on the NAS, the extra cores and 32GB of RAM provide the necessary headroom for smooth operation.