QNAP or Asustor? NAS Devices Compared in 2026
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You are comparing QNAP vs asustor network attached storage options for your data needs. Both units offer eight drive bays and quad-core processors, making them suitable for heavy storage tasks. The main difference lies in their connectivity and memory. The QNAP model provides four Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4GB of RAM. The Asustor unit includes dual 10GbE ports and 8GB of RAM. This guide breaks down these specs to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS |
|---|---|---|
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 |
| Network Connectivity | Four 1GbE ports | Two 10GbE and two 2.5GbE ports |
| Processor | AMD RX-421ND | Intel Atom C3538 |
| M.2 Support | SATA 6Gb/s | NVMe |
Which one should you choose?
Choose QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS if
- You need flexible PCIe expansion for graphics transcoding.
- You prefer a standard Gigabit Ethernet setup.
- You want SATA-based M.2 caching options.
Choose Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS if
- You require high-speed 10GbE network connections.
- You need more base RAM for virtualization.
- You want faster NVMe SSD support.
Verdict: Choose the QNAP if you prioritize PCIe expansion slots and GPU transcoding capabilities. Pick the Asustor if you need faster network speeds with 10GbE ports and double the base RAM. Both devices handle eight drives well, so your choice depends on your specific network and memory requirements.
QNAP vs Asustor NAS Comparison
RAM Capacity
Memory size directly impacts how many applications and virtual machines can run simultaneously on your NAS. The Asustor AS6508T comes equipped with 8GB of DDR4 RAM out of the box. This larger pool allows for more robust multitasking and faster data handling for heavy workloads. In contrast, the QNAP TS-673-4G includes 4GB of DDR4 RAM. While you can upgrade the QNAP to 8GB, the Asustor offers double the memory standard configuration. For users running containerized apps or virtualization, the Asustor provides a stronger starting point without requiring immediate hardware modifications.
Network Connectivity
High-speed networking is critical for transferring large files and supporting multiple users. The Asustor AS6508T features two 10GbE ports and two 2.5GbE ports, offering significant bandwidth headroom for modern networks. This setup supports link aggregation for speeds up to 20Gbps. The QNAP TS-673-4G provides four Gigabit Ethernet ports. It does not include native 10GbE ports but supports optional 10GbE expansion via PCIe slots. If you rely on existing 10GbE infrastructure, the Asustor is ready to use. If you prefer Gigabit speeds and flexibility, the QNAP offers more ports for basic connectivity.
Processor Specification
Both units utilize quad-core processors to handle data management and application tasks. The QNAP TS-673-4G uses an AMD R-Series quad-core processor running at 2.134 GHz. The Asustor AS6508T employs an Intel Atom C3538 (Denverton) quad-core processor at 2.1 GHz. While the clock speeds are nearly identical, the Intel Denverton architecture is often noted for efficiency in NAS environments. The AMD chip is also a capable 64-bit processor. Since both are quad-core and operate at similar frequencies, performance differences will likely depend more on the operating system and specific workload than the raw CPU spec alone.
Storage Expansion Slots
Solid-state drives can significantly speed up access times for frequently used files. The QNAP TS-673-4G includes two M.2 SATA 6Gb/s slots for SSDs, which can be used for caching or dedicated storage pools. It also features two PCIe Gen3 x4 slots for expanding network or storage capabilities. The Asustor AS6508T includes M.2 NVMe slots, which generally offer faster speeds than SATA-based M.2 drives. However, the provided data does not specify the exact number of NVMe slots for the Asustor. The QNAP explicitly lists its SATA M.2 and PCIe expansion options, providing clear upgrade paths for caching.
Graphics Capabilities
Video transcoding and output quality depend on the graphics processing unit. The QNAP TS-673-4G supports the NVIDIA GeForce GT1030 graphics card. This allows for hardware-accelerated 4K video transcoding and output, which is useful for media servers and smart home integration. The data for the Asustor AS6508T does not mention integrated or discrete graphics support. If you plan to use your NAS for heavy media transcoding or as a display output device, the QNAP offers a distinct advantage with its GPU compatibility. For pure file storage, this feature may be less relevant.
Which NAS suits your specific needs
Users needing high-speed local transfers
The Asustor AS6508T includes two 10GbE interfaces and two 2.5GbE ports. This setup provides up to 20Gbps throughput with link aggregation. You benefit from significantly faster file transfers compared to standard Gigabit connections. The dual 10GbE ports allow for dedicated network paths, reducing congestion when multiple users access shared data simultaneously.
Those prioritizing expandability and GPU support
The QNAP TS-673-4G features two PCIe Gen3 x4 slots. You can install QM2 cards, 10GbE adapters, or wireless network cards. It also supports an NVIDIA GeForce GT1030 graphics card for 4K video transcoding. This flexibility allows you to customize the hardware to match your specific workflow requirements without being locked into fixed ports.
Budget-conscious buyers wanting more RAM
The Asustor model comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM out of the box. This larger memory pool supports more simultaneous applications and virtual machines. You get better multitasking performance without needing to purchase additional memory modules separately. The 8GB capacity ensures smoother operation when running containerized apps or managing large media libraries.
The products compared
QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS
Best for: Users needing high drive capacity and transcoding
- Drive Bays
- 6 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 4x GbE LAN
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Number of Bays
- 8-Bay
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
View on Amazon: QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-673-4G is an 8-bay NAS featuring a quad-core AMD R-Series processor and 4GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes four 1GbE LAN ports and dual M.2 slots for SSD caching or storage. The unit supports NVIDIA graphics for 4K transcoding and offers PCIe expansion for 10GbE upgrades. This setup suits users needing scalable storage with virtualization and container app support.
Pros
- 8-bay capacity for 2.5" or 3.5" drives plus two M.2 slots
- AMD R-Series Quad-core 2.1GHz processor
- Four 1GbE LAN ports with optional 10GbE expansion
- Supports NVIDIA GeForce GT1030 for 4K video transcoding
- Dual PCIe Gen3 x4 slots for additional cards
Cons
- Base model includes only 4GB of RAM
- Standard network connectivity is limited to 1GbE
- Physical dimensions are large at 11 inches long
Good fit if
- You need high storage density for multiple drives
- You require hardware acceleration for 4K video transcoding
- You plan to expand network speed with 10GbE cards
Skip if
- You require 10GbE connectivity without adding expansion cards
- You have limited space for a large chassis
- You need more than 4GB of RAM pre-installed
Verdict: QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS fits users who need extensive drive capacity and hardware transcoding capabilities. It is ideal for those willing to add expansion cards for faster networking.
Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS
Best for: Users needing high throughput and 8 drive bays
- Drive Bays
- 8-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 2x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Atom C3538
- RAM Capacity
- 8GB DDR4
- Hardware Interface
- M.2 NVMe
- Processor Cores
- Quad-Core
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS Affiliate link
This Asustor Lockerstor 8 is an 8-bay NAS built for heavy data loads. It uses a quad-core Intel Atom C3538 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. You get two 10GbE ports and two 2.5GbE ports for high-speed connectivity. It supports eight 3.5-inch SATA drives. This unit suits users who need massive local storage and fast network transfer rates for professional workflows.
Pros
- Eight drive bays for large capacity
- Dual 10GbE network interfaces
- Quad-core Intel Atom C3538 CPU
- 8GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
Cons
- Large 11.5 by 9.06 inch footprint
- Heavy 13.7 pound build
- No M.2 NVMe slots listed
Good fit if
- You need eight drive bays
- You require 10GbE network speeds
- You run heavy multitasking workloads
Skip if
- You have limited desk space
- You want a compact 2-bay unit
- You need USB-C direct attachment
Verdict: Asustor 8 Bay NAS with 10GbE is a robust solution for users who prioritize high network throughput and maximum drive capacity over a compact form factor.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | QNAP TS-673-4G 8-Bay NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 8-Bay Dual 10GbE NAS |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 6 Bay | 8-Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 4x GbE LAN | 2x 10GbE, 2x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | not stated | Intel Atom C3538 |
| RAM Capacity | 4GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | 2 slots | not stated |
| Hardware Interface | not stated | M.2 NVMe |
| Number of Bays | 8-Bay | 8-Bay |
| Processor Cores | Quad-Core | Quad-Core |
| Dimensions | 11 × 10.4 × 7.41 inches | 9.06 × 11.5 × 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 pounds | 13.7 pounds |
| Size | 4GB RAM | 8 Bay |
| Color | Black | Lockerstor |
| Model | TS-673-4G-US | AS6508T |
Frequently asked questions
Which NAS has more RAM for multitasking?
The Asustor AS6508T offers 8GB of RAM. This is double the 4GB found in the QNAP TS-673-4G. More memory allows you to run more applications simultaneously. It also supports better performance for virtual machines. You get a larger pool for multitasking with the Asustor model.
Does the QNAP model support 10GbE networking?
No, the QNAP TS-673-4G features 1GbE connectivity. It does not include 10GbE ports in its standard configuration. You would need to add expansion cards for faster networking speeds. The Asustor model includes dual 10GbE interfaces for higher throughput.
Are both NAS devices 8-bay models?
Yes, both units are 8-bay NAS devices. They share the same drive capacity potential. This makes them suitable for users needing extensive storage. You can populate either unit with up to eight hard drives for your data needs.
Which NAS is better for hardware transcoding?
The QNAP TS-673-4G is ideal for hardware transcoding. It fits users who need these specific capabilities for media streaming. The Asustor model focuses more on network throughput and drive capacity. Choose the QNAP if transcoding is a priority for your media library.
What processor do both NAS drives use?
Both devices use a Quad-Core processor. This shared specification ensures strong performance for heavy storage tasks. You get consistent processing power for file management and application hosting. The quad-core architecture handles demanding workloads efficiently in both units.
Which NAS includes M.2 NVMe support?
The Asustor AS6508T includes M.2 NVMe hardware interface support. This allows you to add fast solid-state storage for caching or virtual machines. The QNAP TS-673-4G data does not list this feature. You benefit from faster random read/write speeds with the Asustor NVMe capability.