LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS offers a hybrid storage design with 2.5GbE networking and direct 4K HDMI output. If you are comparing lincplus lincstation e1 4 bay NAS alternatives, you might want different specifications or a different brand. This device excels at home media centers that connect directly to televisions. It combines SATA bays with M.2 NVMe slots for flexible caching or storage. The quad-core processor and 4GB RAM handle multitasking efficiently. However, some users prefer more RAM or different network ports. Others may need a smaller footprint or a different operating system interface. You might also seek better build materials or specific enterprise features. We selected these 6 options because their hardware specs overlap with the E1. Each alternative shares key traits like 4-bay capacity or similar connectivity options. This list helps you find a device that matches your exact technical requirements. You can compare processor types, RAM amounts, and port configurations side by side. The goal is to identify the best fit for your specific data needs. Read on to see how these models stack up against the original.
Comparing key specs and features
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS shares the quad-core processor and 4GB RAM of the LincStation E1, but it lacks the HDMI port for direct TV connections. It focuses on network flexibility with 2.5GbE and 5GbE ports, making it better for users who need high-speed data transfers over local media streaming. The Asustor unit is heavier at 6.53 pounds compared to the LincStation’s 2 pounds, reflecting a more traditional desktop chassis. If you prioritize network expansion and SSD caching over a built-in media center interface, this model offers a robust alternative for custom storage setups.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD
The Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD includes pre-installed SSDs, offering immediate high-speed storage that the LincStation E1 does not provide out of the box. It features dual 5GbE ports for superior network redundancy and speed, surpassing the single 2.5GbE port on the LincStation. However, it omits the HDMI 2.0 output, so you cannot connect it directly to a display for local 4K playback. This unit is heavier and larger, designed for performance-oriented users who value SSD speed and network bandwidth over direct media output and a compact form factor.
Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS is a budget-friendly option that reduces RAM to 2GB, which may limit multitasking compared to the 4GB in the LincStation E1. It retains the 2.5GbE and 5GbE network ports and includes an HDMI interface for media streaming, similar to the LincStation. The processor is quad-core, matching the E1’s core count but likely with lower clock speeds. This model is ideal for users who need basic home media storage and streaming without the advanced hybrid NVMe/SATA flexibility or the higher processing power of the LincStation, offering a simpler, lower-cost entry point.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
The QNAP TS-264 is a 2-Bay desktop NAS, significantly smaller than the 4-Bay LincStation E1. It offers 8GB of RAM, double the memory of the LincStation, which benefits intensive tasks and virtualization. It supports M.2 NVMe caching and features 2.5GbE and 5GbE ports. The QNAP lacks an HDMI port, so it cannot serve as a direct media center for your TV. This model suits users who prioritize processing power and RAM over drive capacity, needing a compact desktop solution with fast SSD caching rather than a high-capacity hybrid storage array.
Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS
The Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS uses an Intel N100 processor, which generally offers higher single-core performance than the Cortex-A55 in the LincStation E1. It is designed for all-SSD storage, providing much faster read/write speeds than the hybrid SATA/NVMe setup of the LincStation. It lacks an HDMI port and RAM specifications in the provided data, focusing instead on raw speed. This unit is lightweight and compact. It is best for creative professionals who need rapid data access for editing and do not require direct media output or large HDD capacity for archiving.
Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS
The Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS comes with 16TB of pre-installed storage, whereas the LincStation E1 is sold without drives. It features an AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB of RAM, matching the LincStation’s memory but with a more powerful CPU architecture. It includes 2.5GbE and 5GbE ports for networking. The Synology unit is heavier at 13.2 pounds and lacks the HDMI port found on the LincStation. This model is suited for business users or those needing pre-loaded capacity and robust processing for virtualization, prioritizing data safety and CPU power over direct home media streaming capabilities.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS
Best for: home media centers with direct TV connections
- 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 LincPlus LincStation E1 is a 4-bay NAS with a quad-core 2.0GHz processor and 4GB RAM. It combines two SATA bays for HDDs with two M.2 NVMe slots for speed. A 2.5GbE port boosts network speeds, while an HDMI 2.0 output supports 4K media playback. This unit suits users who want local storage with direct TV connection capabilities.
Pros
- Quad-core 2.0GHz processor with 4GB DDR4 RAM
- Hybrid 4-bay design with SATA and M.2 NVMe slots
- 2.5GbE network port for faster file transfers
- HDMI 2.0 port for direct 4K video output
Cons
- Only one 2.5GbE port, unlike competitors with dual ports
- No USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt ports listed for external expansion
- 64GB eMMC storage limits local app installation space
Good fit if
- You want to connect the NAS directly to a TV via HDMI
- You need fast caching with M.2 NVMe drives alongside HDDs
- You prefer a tool-free drive installation process
Skip if
- You require dual 2.5GbE ports for link aggregation
- You need extensive USB expansion options for peripherals
- You rely on a large internal storage capacity for apps
Verdict: The LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS fits users who value direct 4K media output and hybrid storage flexibility over redundant network ports. It is a practical choice for home media centers.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS
Best for: Users needing 2.5GbE ports and NVMe expansion
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Quad-Core 2.0GHz
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS Affiliate link
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T is a 4-bay NAS drive with a quad-core 2.0GHz processor and 4GB of DDR4 RAM. It features two built-in 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD expansion. This unit supports over 200 free apps and includes four IP camera licenses. It suits users needing robust local storage and multimedia capabilities without pre-installed drives.
Pros
- Quad-core 2.0GHz processor for strong performance
- Two 2.5GbE network ports for fast connectivity
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching or storage
- Includes four free IP camera licenses
- Supports over 200 free apps
Cons
- Sold diskless with no included storage
- Heavier at 6.53 pounds than compact alternatives
- No mention of Wi-Fi connectivity
Good fit if
- You need dedicated 2.5GbE ports for high-speed transfers
- You want to expand storage with M.2 NVMe drives
- You plan to set up an IP camera surveillance system
Skip if
- You require pre-installed storage drives
- You need a lighter or more compact desktop unit
- You rely on Wi-Fi for network access
Verdict: Asustor Lockerstor 4 4-Bay NAS delivers strong processing power and flexible networking for users who value speed and expansion over convenience. It is ideal for those building a custom storage solution with SSDs and cameras.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD
Best for: Users needing dual 5GbE and SSDs
- Drive Bays
- 4 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4 slots
- Included Storage
- 3 x 4TB SSD
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD Affiliate link
This NAS bundle includes three 4TB SSDs for a total of 12TB of fast storage. It uses an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor and 4GB of DDR4 RAM. The unit features four M.2 NVMe slots and dual 5GbE ports for high-speed connectivity. You get a ready-to-use system with pre-installed drives. It suits users who want speed without buying separate components.
Pros
- Includes 3 x 4TB SSDs
- Dual 5GbE ports
- 4 M.2 NVMe slots
- Intel Celeron N5105 CPU
Cons
- Only 4GB of RAM
- No 4th SSD included
- Heavier build at 11.9 pounds
Good fit if
- You want pre-installed SSDs
- You need dual 5GbE ports
- You require M.2 expansion
Skip if
- You need 8GB of RAM
- You want four included drives
- You prefer lighter hardware
Verdict: Asustor AS6704T 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSDs offers a solid foundation for users who prioritize network speed and SSD performance over maximum memory capacity.
Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS
Best for: Home media storage and streaming
- 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 NAS drive with a quad-core 1.4 GHz CPU and 2GB DDR4 RAM. It features a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for faster network transfers. The unit supports up to 72TB of storage across its bays. It includes hardware decoding for 4K video playback. This model suits home users needing reliable storage and media streaming capabilities.
Pros
- Quad-core 1.4 GHz processor
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Supports up to 72TB total storage
- Hardware decoding for 4K H.265 video
Cons
- 2.5GbE port is slower than the 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports on competitors
- 2GB RAM is lower than the 4GB or 8GB found in other options
- 1.4 GHz CPU speed is lower than the 2.0 GHz processors in this list
Good fit if
- You need a 4-bay NAS for home or small office use
- You want hardware-accelerated 4K media streaming
- You prefer a budget-friendly option with basic networking
Skip if
- You require high-performance computing with 4GB or more RAM
- You need the fastest network speeds available with 5GbE ports
- You want a faster quad-core processor than 1.4 GHz
Verdict: Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro 4-Bay NAS fits users who prioritize storage capacity and media decoding over raw processing power or top-tier network speeds. It is a solid entry-level choice for home media libraries.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
Best for: Fast desktop storage with NVMe caching
- 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
This QNAP desktop NAS features a quad-core Intel Celeron processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports for fast network transfers and two M.2 NVMe slots for cache or storage expansion. The unit also offers USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and a PCIe expansion slot. It suits users needing high performance in a compact two-bay form factor.
Pros
- Quad-core Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 processor with 8GB DDR4 RAM
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports for accelerated file sharing
- Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 NVMe SSD slots for cache or storage
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports with up to 10Gb/s transfer speeds
Cons
- Only two drive bays limit total storage capacity
- No 10GbE ports included for ultra-fast networking
- Lacks 2.5-inch drive bays for mixed SSD/HDD setups
Good fit if
- You need fast network speeds for large file transfers
- You want to use NVMe SSDs for cache acceleration
- You prefer a desktop form factor with expansion options
Skip if
- You require four or more drive bays for high capacity
- You need 10GbE networking for professional workflows
- You want a compact 1-bay solution for light use
Verdict: QNAP 2-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM delivers strong performance for users who need fast networking and SSD caching in a small footprint. It is ideal for those prioritizing speed and expandability over raw drive count.
Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS
Best for: High-speed all-SSD storage for creative work
- Drive Bays
- 4 Bays
- Network Connectivity
- 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel N100
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB LPDDR5 4800MHz
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4 slots
- Hardware Interface
- M.2 NVMe
View on Amazon: Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS Affiliate link
The Aiffro K100 is a four-bay all-SSD NAS built around the Intel N100 processor. It uses 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and supports up to 16TB of NVMe storage. The unit features 2.5GbE and 5GbE connectivity options. Its compact aluminum chassis measures 4.61 x 4.41 x 1.34 inches. This design suits users who need high-speed data access for video editing or team projects without the noise of spinning disks.
Pros
- Intel N100 processor with 3.40GHz peak speed
- 8GB LPDDR5 4800MHz RAM for fast data handling
- Four bays for up to 16TB NVMe SSDs
- Dual network ports including 5GbE and 2.5GbE
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of NVMe SSDs
- Limited to 16TB total capacity
- Targeted at DIY users rather than plug-and-play
Good fit if
- You need high-speed storage for 4K video editing
- You want a silent, all-SSD storage solution
- You prefer DIY operating systems like TrueNAS
Skip if
- You want a NAS with pre-installed hard drives
- You require a simple, managed interface without setup
- You need more than 16TB of storage space
Verdict: Aiffro K100 All-SSD NAS Intel N100 delivers fast, silent storage for creative professionals who value speed over pre-loaded capacity. It fits users ready to configure their own NVMe drives and operating systems for maximum performance.
Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS
Best for: Business virtualization and surveillance
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity
- 4 GB DDR4 ECC
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- 16TB
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS Affiliate link
This Synology DS925+ bundle includes four 4TB drives for 16TB total storage. It uses an AMD Ryzen V1500B processor and 4GB ECC RAM. You get dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots. The unit supports expansion via a DX525 unit. This setup suits small businesses needing virtualization or surveillance capabilities with reliable data storage.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor
- 4GB DDR4 ECC memory
- Dual 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots
Cons
- Only 4GB RAM included
- No 10GbE network ports
- Higher weight than basic models
Good fit if
- You need strong CPU performance for virtualization
- You want ECC memory for data integrity
- You require dual 2.5GbE connectivity
Skip if
- You need 10GbE networking
- You want more than 4GB RAM pre-installed
- You prefer a lighter, smaller chassis
Verdict: Synology DS925+ 16TB Bundle delivers robust processing power and reliable ECC memory for business workloads. It fits users who prioritize CPU performance and data safety over raw network speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD | Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS | Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS | Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4 Bay | 4 Bay | 2 Bay | 4 Bays | 4-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE | Dual 5GbE | 1 x 2.5GbE | Dual 2.5GbE | 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | Quad-Core Cortex-A55 | Quad-Core 2.0GHz | Intel Celeron N5105 | Realtek RTD 1296 | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 | Intel N100 | AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core |
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB DDR4 | 2GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB LPDDR5 4800MHz | 4 GB DDR4 ECC |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | 2 slots | 2 slots | 4 slots | not stated | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 | 4 slots | 2 slots |
| Included Storage | Diskless | Diskless | 3 x 4TB SSD | Diskless | Diskless | not stated | 16TB |
| Form Factor | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Desktop | not stated | not stated |
| Hardware Interface | SATA, M.2 NVMe, HDMI | M.2 NVMe | M.2 NVMe, HDMI | not stated | M.2 NVMe | M.2 NVMe | not stated |
| Number of Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 2-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | not stated | not stated |
| Weight | 2 pounds | 6.53 pounds | 11.9 pounds | 4.85 pounds | 5.11 pounds | 14.1 ounces | 13.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 9.06 × 6.69 × 7.3 inches | 10 × 12 × 13 inches | 9.06 × 6.85 × 6.69 inches | 13 × 9 × 11 inches | 4.61 × 4.41 × 1.34 inches | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 4 Bay | 3X4TB | 4 Bay | 2 Bay (Unav.) | 256G | 16TB |
| Color | not stated | AS6604T | not stated | Drivestor Pro | Clear | white | not stated |
| Model | not stated | AS6604T | not stated | AS3304T | TS-264-8G-US | K100 | DS925+/8TB-IW |
Frequently asked questions
Which NAS has the best processor for virtualization?
The Synology DS925+ bundle uses an AMD Ryzen processor. This chip offers robust processing power suitable for business virtualization workloads. It also includes ECC memory for data safety. While it has 5GbE and 2.5GbE ports, it prioritizes CPU performance over raw network speed compared to other options.
Can I connect a NAS directly to a TV?
Yes, the LincPlus LincStation E1 and the Asustor AS6704T both include HDMI ports. These ports allow for direct 4K media output to a television. This feature makes them practical choices for home media centers where you want to play content without using a separate streaming device or computer.
Which model is best for fast desktop storage?
The QNAP TS-264 is designed as a desktop NAS with a small footprint. It features 8GB of RAM and supports M.2 NVMe caching for fast performance. It connects via 5GbE and 2.5GbE ports. This model is ideal if you need speed and expandability in a compact space rather than maximum drive count.
Is there an option with an Intel N100 processor?
The Aiffro K100 4-Bay All-SSD NAS uses an Intel N100 processor. It delivers fast, silent storage for creative professionals. This device is built for high-speed all-SSD configurations. It fits users ready to configure their own NVMe drives and operating systems for maximum performance rather than relying on pre-loaded capacity.
Which NAS supports dual 5GbE ports?
The Asustor AS6704T 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSDs offers dual 5GbE connectivity. This setup provides strong network speed for users who prioritize bandwidth. It also includes HDMI output and 4GB of RAM. This model serves as a solid foundation for those who need high network throughput alongside SSD performance.
What is the lightest NAS in this list?
The Aiffro K100 is the lightest option at 14.1 ounces. Its compact design measures 4.41 inches wide and 1.34 inches high. This small form factor suits users who need a portable or unobtrusive all-SSD NAS. It contrasts with heavier models like the Synology bundle, which weighs 13.2 pounds.
Which NAS is best for surveillance and business use?
The Synology DS925+ 16TB bundle is best for business virtualization and surveillance. It provides robust processing power and reliable ECC memory. These features ensure data safety for critical workloads. It connects via 5GbE and 2.5GbE ports, offering a reliable network foundation for professional environments that prioritize stability and CPU capability.
Which model offers the most RAM capacity?
The QNAP TS-264 Desktop NAS includes 8GB of RAM. This is higher than the 4GB found in the LincPlus, Asustor, and Synology models listed. The extra memory supports faster performance, especially when using NVMe caching. It helps handle demanding tasks more efficiently than models with smaller memory capacities.