Looking Beyond the QNAP TS-464-8G-US 4 Bay Desktop? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these NAS models compare

BUFFALO TeraStation 4-Bay 16TB Desktop NAS

The BUFFALO TeraStation 4-Bay 16TB Desktop NAS includes 16TB of storage, whereas the QNAP TS-464-8G-US ships without drives. You get pre-installed capacity here, saving you the initial purchase of hard disks. It also features dual 2.5GbE ports, matching the QNAP network speed. However, BUFFALO focuses on a plug-and-play experience with included drives, which limits the open system flexibility found in QNAP. If you want immediate storage capacity and 2.5GbE speeds without managing drive compatibility, this model suits you. You trade the ability to customize storage tiers for a ready-to-use solution.

QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM

The QNAP TVS-h474-8G uses an Intel Pentium CPU and includes 8GB of RAM, similar to the TS-464. It also offers dual 2.5GbE ports for network connectivity. The key difference is the emphasis on media playback performance. While the TS-464 relies on the N5105/N5095 processor, this premium model targets users who prioritize raw speed and local media streaming. It lacks pre-installed storage, just like the TS-464. You should pick this if you need stronger processing power for media tasks. It gives up the specific N5105 architecture for a Pentium variant, focusing on consistent high-speed file sharing rather than budget constraints.

QNAP 4-Bay Ryzen Desktop NAS

The QNAP TS-473A is a 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Ryzen processing power, offering robust performance for media or team storage. It includes NVMe caching and dual 2.5GbE speeds, similar to the TS-464. However, it lacks Thunderbolt support, which is not a feature of the TS-464 either. This model suits users who prioritize processing power and network speed over pre-installed storage. It gives up the specific Intel N5105 chip for a Ryzen alternative, potentially offering different performance characteristics. If you need strong processing for heavy workloads and 2.5GbE connectivity, this is a solid choice. It maintains the 4-bay form factor and desktop design for easy placement.

QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Dual 2.5GbE

The QNAP TS-453E-8G provides dual 2.5GbE ports and NVMe support, matching the network and caching capabilities of the TS-464. It is designed for home offices with solid performance. Unlike the TS-464, which uses an Intel N5105, this model targets users who prioritize network speed and caching over higher bay counts. It shares the 4-bay desktop form factor. You should pick this if you need reliable local storage with fast network transfers. It gives up the specific N5105 processor for a different internal configuration. This model is ideal for those who value the NVMe caching feature and 2.5GbE connectivity in a compact desktop unit.

QNAP 4-Bay 2.5GbE Desktop NAS

The QNAP TS-433 is a 4-Bay Budget NAS focused on home file storage and media streaming. It lacks the dual 2.5GbE ports found on the TS-464, offering standard connectivity instead. It prioritizes data security over raw performance, making it suitable for small offices or families. The TS-433 is designed for users who need reliable, encrypted storage without the cost of higher-end models. It gives up the NVMe SSD slots and faster network interfaces for a simpler, more affordable setup. If you do not need 2.5GbE speeds or SSD caching, this model fits your needs. It maintains the 4-bay capacity for ample storage expansion.

QNAP 4-Bay ARM Desktop NAS with 2.5GbE

The QNAP TS-433-4G is a 4-Bay ARM Desktop NAS with 2.5GbE connectivity, similar to the TS-464 network speed. It includes 4GB of RAM, half the capacity of the TS-464. This model is an entry-level choice for home users who prioritize capacity and basic speed over raw processing power. It gives up the 8GB RAM and Intel processor for an ARM-based architecture. You should pick this if you need basic streaming and file storage without high processing demands. It maintains the 4-bay form factor for drive expansion. The lower RAM and different CPU make it less suitable for heavy multitasking compared to the TS-464.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS

Best for: Fast local file transfers and SSD caching

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Network Connectivity

Dual 2.5GbE

Processor

Intel N5105/N5095

RAM Capacity

8GB DDR4

M.2 NVMe Slots

2 slots

Included Storage

Diskless

View on Amazon: QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS Affiliate link

The QNAP TS-464 is a 4-bay desktop NAS built for speed. It uses a quad-core Intel N5105/N5095 processor and includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM. Dual 2.5GbE ports help you move large files faster. You also get two M.2 NVMe SSD slots for cache or extra storage. This setup suits users who need fast local transfers and reliable media organization.

Pros

• Quad-core Intel N5105/N5095 CPU with 8GB DDR4 RAM
• Dual 2.5GbE network ports for faster file sharing
• Two M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe SSD slots
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports with 10Gb/s transfer speeds

Cons

• Only includes 8GB of RAM, while competitors offer more
• Uses PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots, which are slower than Gen4
• No mention of built-in Wi-Fi support

Good fit if

• You need fast local network transfers via 2.5GbE
• You want to add NVMe SSDs for cache or storage
• You organize large media libraries on a desktop

Skip if

• You require more than 8GB of RAM
• You need Wi-Fi connectivity without cables
• You prefer PCIe Gen4 NVMe performance

Verdict: The QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS delivers solid performance for users who prioritize fast local transfers and SSD flexibility. It fits those who want a reliable desktop unit for media storage without needing high-end server specs.

2 Also great

BUFFALO TeraStation 4-Bay 16TB Desktop NAS

Best for: users wanting included drives and 2.5GbE speeds

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Included Storage

16TB (4x4TB)

RAID Support

RAID 0, RAID 5, RAID 6

Form Factor

Desktop

View on Amazon: BUFFALO TeraStation 4-Bay 16TB Desktop NAS Affiliate link

This BUFFALO TeraStation is a 4-bay desktop NAS with 16TB of included storage. It features a native 2.5GbE port for fast transfers and 256-bit drive encryption. The system ships in RAID 5 for 12TB usable space, with options for RAID 6 or 0. It supports cloud sync with major providers and includes a 3-year warranty with US-based support. It suits users wanting pre-configured data protection.

Pros

• Includes 16TB of storage across four 4TB drives
• Native 2.5GbE port for high-speed file transfers
• 256-bit drive encryption for data security
• Cloud integration with Amazon S3, Dropbox, and Azure

Cons

• Closed system limits advanced customization
• No mention of USB ports or expansion slots
• No mention of Wi-Fi connectivity

Good fit if

• You want a ready-to-use NAS with drives included
• You need 2.5GbE speeds without upgrading cables
• You prefer a closed system for simple management

Skip if

• You require extensive custom software features
• You need built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
• You want to expand storage beyond the included drives

Verdict: BUFFALO TeraStation 2025 16TB 4-Bay NAS is a secure, plug-and-play solution for users who value included storage and 2.5GbE speeds over open system flexibility.

3 Best premium

QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM

Best for: Users needing fast local storage and media playback

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Network Connectivity

Dual 2.5GbE

Processor

Intel Pentium Gold G7400

RAM Capacity

8GB DDR4

M.2 NVMe Slots

2 slots

Included Storage

Diskless

View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM Affiliate link

This QNAP desktop NAS features an Intel Pentium Gold G7400 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes two M.2 NVMe slots for cache or storage pools and dual 2.5GbE ports for faster network transfers. The unit supports 4K media playback via HDMI. It suits users needing high-speed local storage and media capabilities without the cost of higher-end models.

Pros

• Intel Pentium Gold G7400 3.7 GHz processor
• Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe SSD slots
• Dual 2.5GbE network ports
• HDMI 1.4b output for 4K playback

Cons

• HDMI output limited to 30Hz refresh rate
• No 10GbE network connectivity included
• Sold as a diskless unit requiring separate drives

Good fit if

• You need fast local storage with NVMe acceleration
• You want to stream 4K media directly to a display
• You require dual 2.5GbE ports for improved network speed

Skip if

• You already own hard drives and want a pre-filled unit
• You need 10GbE networking for maximum throughput
• You prefer a server rack form factor over desktop

Verdict: QNAP TVS-h474-8G 4-Bay Desktop NAS delivers strong performance for media and file sharing through its Pentium CPU and dual 2.5GbE ports. It is best for users who prioritize speed and local media playback over pre-installed storage.

4 Also great

QNAP 4-Bay Ryzen Desktop NAS

Best for: Users needing 2.5GbE and NVMe caching

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Network Connectivity

Dual 2.5GbE

Processor

AMD Ryzen V1500B

RAM Capacity

8GB DDR4

M.2 NVMe Slots

2 slots

Included Storage

Diskless

View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay Ryzen Desktop NAS Affiliate link

This QNAP TS-473A offers a quad-core AMD Ryzen V1500B processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It features dual M.2 NVMe slots for cache acceleration or SSD storage pools. Dual 2.5GbE ports provide faster network speeds for file sharing. You get multiple USB 3.2 ports for high-speed transfers. It supports backup for Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 accounts via Boxafe.

Pros

• Quad-core AMD Ryzen V1500B processor
• Dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots
• Dual 2.5GbE network ports
• 8GB DDR4 RAM up to 64GB

Cons

• No mention of Thunderbolt connectivity
• No included hard drives
• No front display panel listed

Good fit if

• You need fast local network transfers with 2.5GbE ports
• You want to use NVMe SSDs for caching
• You require backup for Google Workspace or Microsoft 365

Skip if

• You need Thunderbolt 3 or 4 connectivity
• You want a pre-loaded drive configuration
• You prefer a compact rack-mount form factor

Verdict: QNAP TS-473A 4-Bay Desktop NAS suits users who need robust processing power and fast network connectivity for media or team storage. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing NVMe caching and 2.5GbE speeds over Thunderbolt support.

5 Also great

QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Dual 2.5GbE

Best for: Users needing 2.5GbE and NVMe cache

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Network Connectivity

Dual 2.5GbE

Processor

Intel Quad-core

RAM Capacity

8GB

M.2 NVMe Slots

2 slots

Form Factor

Desktop

View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Dual 2.5GbE Affiliate link

This 4-bay desktop NAS features an Intel quad-core CPU with 8GB of RAM. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports for faster network transfers and two M.2 NVMe slots for cache or storage. The unit also offers USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for external drive connectivity. It suits users needing reliable local storage for media and files with decent network throughput.

Pros

• Intel quad-core CPU with 8GB RAM
• Dual 2.5GbE network ports
• Two M.2 NVMe SSD slots
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports

Cons

• Only 4 drive bays
• No mention of Thunderbolt support
• No mention of HDMI output

Good fit if

• You need fast 2.5GbE network speeds
• You want to use NVMe drives for cache
• You prefer a compact desktop form factor

Skip if

• You require 10GbE networking
• You need more than 4 drive bays
• You want built-in HDMI for direct display

Verdict: QNAP TS-453E-8G 4-Bay NAS provides solid performance for home offices with its dual 2.5GbE ports and NVMe support, making it ideal for users who prioritize network speed and caching over higher bay counts.

6

QNAP 4-Bay 2.5GbE Desktop NAS

Best for: home file storage and media streaming

Drive Bays

4-Bay

Network Connectivity

1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE

Processor

ARM Cortex-A55

RAM Capacity

4 GB DDR4

View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay 2.5GbE Desktop NAS Affiliate link

The QNAP TS-433 is a 4-bay desktop NAS built for home users. It uses an ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core processor and 4 GB DDR4 RAM. Networking includes one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port. It supports hardware-accelerated AES-256 encryption and Time Machine backups. This compact unit suits small families needing secure file storage and media streaming on a budget.

Pros

• ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0GHz processor
• 4 GB DDR4 RAM
• 1 x 2.5GbE and 1 x 1GbE ports
• Hardware-accelerated AES-256 encryption

Cons

• Only 4 GB RAM compared to 8 GB in competitors
• Single 2.5GbE port limits high-speed throughput
• ARM processor lacks x86 virtualization capabilities

Good fit if

• You need basic file storage for a family
• You want a quiet, compact desktop NAS
• You require hardware encryption for sensitive data

Skip if

• You need 10GbE networking speeds
• You plan to run heavy virtual machines
• You require more than 4 drive bays

Verdict: The QNAP TS-433 4-Bay Budget NAS fits home users who need reliable, encrypted storage without the cost of higher-end models. It is ideal for small offices or families prioritizing data security over raw performance.

7 Best budget

QNAP 4-Bay ARM Desktop NAS with 2.5GbE

Best for: home file storage and basic streaming

Drive Bays

4 Bay

Network Connectivity

1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE

Processor

ARM Cortex-A55

RAM Capacity

4 GB DDR4

Included Storage

Diskless

Processor Cores

Quad-Core

View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay ARM Desktop NAS with 2.5GbE Affiliate link

The QNAP TS-433-4G is a 4-bay NAS built for budget-conscious users. It uses an ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0GHz processor and includes 4 GB of DDR4 RAM. Network connectivity features one 2.5GbE port and one 1GbE port. This setup supports file storage and multimedia streaming for home use. You can back up Windows and Mac computers using included software. It is designed for personal or family data organization.

Pros

• ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0GHz processor
• 4 GB DDR4 RAM capacity
• 1 x 2.5GbE and 1 x 1GbE ports
• 4-Bay drive configuration

Cons

• Only 4 GB of RAM limits multitasking
• Single 2.5GbE port restricts maximum throughput
• ARM processor offers lower performance than Intel options

Good fit if

• You need a 4-bay NAS for home file storage
• You want 2.5GbE connectivity for faster transfers
• You are on a tight budget

Skip if

• You require high-performance computing for virtualization
• You need multiple 10GbE ports
• You want expandable RAM beyond 4 GB

Verdict: QNAP TS-433-4G 4-Bay NAS is a solid entry-level choice for home users who prioritize capacity and basic speed over raw processing power.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• maiwo 4 bay nvme cloner alternatives
• brother td4410d 4 inch thermal desktop alternatives