6 Best Alternatives to the Synology 2-Bay Desktop NAS Enclosure (2026)
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You might look for synology 2 bay diskstation ds223j alternatives if you need different storage configurations or brands. The original Synology DS223j is a compact, diskless unit that fits home users who prioritize automated backups and IP camera support. It offers secure private cloud access and easy file sharing across multiple platforms. However, its diskless design means you must purchase drives separately. Some buyers prefer units with included storage or faster networking options.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. You will find options with pre-installed drives, such as the Buffalo LinkStation 220. Others offer direct-attached storage like the QNAP TR-002 for single PC expansion. If you need higher performance, the QNAP TS-264 provides NVMe caching and 2.5GbE speeds. The Asustor Lockerstor also supports high-speed media streaming. Each option varies in size, connectivity, and intended use. You can compare these specifications to find the best fit for your specific needs without leaving the Synology ecosystem.
Our top pick: Synology 2-Bay Desktop NAS Enclosure.
Comparing NAS Alternatives to Synology
Buffalo LinkStation 220 4TB 2-Bay NAS
The Buffalo LinkStation 220 includes two 2TB drives for a total of 4TB, whereas the Synology DS223j is diskless. This means you get immediate storage capacity without buying separate hard drives. The Buffalo unit is slightly taller at 8.82 inches compared to the Synology’s 8.9 inches, but it is significantly wider at 10 inches. It is designed for home users seeking simple, centralized storage. You sacrifice the Synology’s IP camera support and extensive backup options for a plug-and-play experience. If you want ready-to-use space without configuration, this is a practical choice.
QNAP 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage
The QNAP TR-002 is a Direct Attached Storage device, not a network-attached storage unit like the Synology DS223j. It connects via USB-C to a single computer, offering hardware RAID options for local data protection. This makes it ideal for expanding storage on one PC rather than sharing files across a network. It is heavier at 2.65 pounds and taller than the Synology. You give up multi-device access and remote cloud features. Choose this if you need fast, secure expansion for a single machine and do not require a dedicated NAS for home network sharing.
QNAP TS-233 2-Bay NAS
The QNAP TS-233 includes 2GB of RAM and a quad-core processor, offering more processing power than the entry-level Synology DS223j. It is a desktop NAS designed for basic home or office file storage with a focus on data protection and simplicity. The dimensions vary by region, but it generally shares a similar compact footprint. You gain better performance for tasks like virtualization or containerization compared to the Synology’s limited capabilities. However, it may lack the Synology’s specific home security system features for IP cameras. Select this if you need a more robust engine for general file management.
QNAP TS-233 2-Bay Desktop NAS
This QNAP TS-233 US model is another desktop NAS with 2GB RAM and a quad-core CPU. It provides reliable home storage and basic backup features at an affordable price point. The dimensions are 10.4 inches in length, making it slightly longer than the Synology DS223j. It offers a practical entry-level option for users who need affordable file storage. You get more processing headroom than the Synology unit. The trade-off is that it may not support the same level of advanced home security integrations. Pick this alternative if you prioritize balanced performance and cost over specialized surveillance features.
Asustor Lockerstor 2-Bay NVMe NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 features dual 2.5GbE ports and a quad-core CPU, providing significantly higher network speeds than the standard Ethernet on the Synology DS223j. It is designed for high-speed media streaming and caching. The unit is heavier at 5.34 pounds and wider at 4.25 inches. You gain robust performance for media management and faster local network transfers. You sacrifice the compact, lightweight design of the Synology and its specific IP camera monitoring capabilities. Choose this if you prioritize network speed and expandable caching for demanding media workflows over simple plug-and-play storage.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
The QNAP TS-264-8G offers M.2 NVMe slots for caching and supports both 5GbE and 2.5GbE networking. This provides much higher throughput and flexibility than the Synology DS223j. It is a larger desktop unit, measuring 13 inches in length and weighing 5.11 pounds. You gain strong performance for demanding tasks and significant expandability. You give up the compact size and lower power consumption of the Synology. This alternative fits users who need NVMe caching and high-speed networking for professional or heavy home use cases rather than simple file backup.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Synology 2-Bay Desktop NAS Enclosure
Best for: home users building custom storage
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 6.5 × 3.94 × 8.9 inches
- Weight
- 1.92 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 2-Bay Desktop NAS Enclosure Affiliate link
The Synology DS223j is a white, 2-bay NAS enclosure measuring 6.5 by 3.94 by 8.9 inches. It weighs 1.92 pounds and supports automated backups for Macs, PCs, and mobile devices. You can use it as a private cloud for file sharing or as a home security system for IP cameras. It includes a 2-year warranty and ongoing software updates from Synology.
Pros
- 2-bay diskless enclosure for flexible storage configuration
- Supports automated backups for multiple device types
- Compatible with multiple IP cameras for security monitoring
- Backed by a 2-year warranty and software updates
Cons
- No internal storage included in the package
- Limited to 2 drive bays for expansion
- No mention of included remote or physical display
Good fit if
- You need a simple private cloud for file access
- You want to back up multiple devices automatically
- You plan to add drives later for capacity
Skip if
- You require pre-installed storage for immediate use
- You need more than 2 drive bays
- You want a device with a built-in display
Verdict: Synology DS223j 2-Bay NAS is a compact, diskless option for users who want to build their own storage capacity. It fits home users who prioritize automated backups and IP camera support over included hardware.
Buffalo LinkStation 220 4TB 2-Bay NAS
Best for: Home users seeking simple, secure storage
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Included Storage
- 4TB
- RAID Support
- RAID 0, RAID 1
- Intended Use
- Home Users
- Dimensions
- 5.04 × 10 × 8.82 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: Buffalo LinkStation 220 4TB 2-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The BUFFALO LinkStation 220 is a 2-bay NAS with 4TB of included storage. It ships in RAID 1 for automatic backup, offering 2TB of usable space. You can switch to RAID 0 for the full 4TB. The closed system reduces vulnerabilities from third-party apps. It supports Windows and macOS 15 and earlier. This diskless unit is designed for home users who need centralized, secure storage without monthly fees.
Pros
- Includes 4TB of total storage capacity
- Supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations
- Closed system reduces third-party app vulnerabilities
- SSL encryption for secure file transfers
- Includes NAS Navigator 2 for automated backups
Cons
- Usable capacity drops to 2TB in default RAID 1
- No support for macOS 26 (Sequoia)
- Lacks Plex media server capabilities
Good fit if
- You want a pre-configured NAS with drives included
- You prioritize data security and closed-system stability
- You use Windows or macOS 15 and earlier
Skip if
- You need to use macOS 26 (Sequoia)
- You require a Plex media server
- You want maximum raw storage capacity
Verdict: BUFFALO LinkStation 220 4TB 2-Bay NAS is a secure, entry-level choice for home users who want simple, centralized storage with included drives and automatic backup capabilities.
QNAP 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage
Best for: expanding storage for a single computer
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- RAID Support
- RAID 0, 1, JBOD
- Dimensions
- 8.86 × 4.02 × 6.63 inches
- Weight
- 2.65 pounds
View on Amazon: QNAP 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage Affiliate link
The QNAP TR-002 is a 2-bay direct-attached storage enclosure designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It connects via USB Type-C and supports hardware RAID 0, 1, and JBOD. You can use it as external storage or expand an existing QNAP NAS. The unit includes lockable drive bays for security. It fits users who need fast local storage without a full NAS setup.
Pros
- USB Type-C connection for high-speed data transfer
- Hardware RAID support for RAID 0, 1, and JBOD
- Lockable drive bays for physical security
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
Cons
- No built-in network ports for direct NAS functionality
- Limited to USB connection rather than Ethernet
- Requires separate drives for operation
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for a single computer
- You want to expand an existing QNAP NAS
- You prefer hardware RAID over software solutions
Skip if
- You need a standalone network-attached storage device
- You require multiple network connections for sharing
- You want to connect directly to a router
Verdict: QNAP TR-002 2-Bay USB-C DAS offers reliable local storage with hardware RAID options. It suits users who need fast, secure expansion for a single PC or existing QNAP system.
QNAP TS-233 2-Bay NAS
Best for: basic home and office file storage
- Drive Bays
- 2 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 1x Gb LAN
- Processor
- ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-core 2.0 GHz
- RAM Capacity
- 2 GB RAM
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 7.4 × 3.54 × 6.14 inches
View on Amazon: QNAP TS-233 2-Bay NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-233 is a minimalist 2-bay desktop NAS designed for straightforward data storage. It features a 64-bit Cortex-A55 quad-core processor running at 2.0 GHz and includes 2 GB of RAM. This unit supports snapshot technology to help protect your files from ransomware. It connects via a single gigabit LAN port. This drive suits users who need reliable, affordable local storage without complex configuration.
Pros
- 64-bit Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0 GHz CPU
- 2 GB RAM for smooth operation
- Snapshot protection against ransomware threats
- Compact desktop form factor
Cons
- Single gigabit LAN port limits network speed
- Only 2 GB of RAM
- No mention of Wi-Fi connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a simple, affordable 2-bay NAS
- You want basic ransomware protection via snapshots
- You prefer a minimalist desktop design
Skip if
- You require high-speed 10GbE networking
- You need more than 2 GB of RAM for heavy multitasking
- You want built-in wireless connectivity
Verdict: QNAP TS-233 2-Bay Desktop NAS offers a balanced mix of performance and security for basic home or office storage needs. It fits buyers who prioritize data protection and simplicity over high-end networking features.
QNAP TS-233 2-Bay Desktop NAS
Best for: Home users needing affordable file storage
- Drive Bays
- 2 Bay
- Processor
- ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-core 2.0 GHz
- RAM Capacity
- 2 GB DDR4 RAM
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 10.4 × 8.74 × 3.94 inches
View on Amazon: QNAP TS-233 2-Bay Desktop NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-233 is a 2-bay desktop NAS designed for home file storage and multimedia streaming. It features an ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core processor running at 2.0GHz and 2 GB of DDR4 RAM. This setup allows you to store photos, music, and videos centrally. The unit includes snapshot technology for ransomware protection and supports backup software for Windows and Mac computers.
Pros
- ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0GHz processor
- 2 GB DDR4 RAM for system operations
- Storage snapshot technology for ransomware mitigation
- Supports Windows NetBak Replicator and Mac Time Machine backups
Cons
- Diskless design requires you to purchase drives separately
- Lacks a high-performance Intel or AMD processor found in premium models
- Limited to 2 GB RAM, which may restrict heavy multitasking
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly NAS for basic file storage
- You want to protect personal media with snapshot technology
- You primarily store photos, music, and videos for home use
Skip if
- You require pre-installed storage drives
- You need high-performance processing for virtualization or heavy container workloads
- You are looking for a direct-attached storage (DAS) solution instead of a network drive
Verdict: The QNAP TS-233 2-Bay ARM NAS is a practical entry-level option for users who need reliable home storage and basic backup features without the cost of high-end hardware.
Asustor Lockerstor 2-Bay NVMe NAS
Best for: High-speed media streaming and caching
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- Dual 2.5GbE
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR4
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 4 slots
- Included Storage
- Diskless
View on Amazon: Asustor Lockerstor 2-Bay NVMe NAS Affiliate link
The Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 is a 2-bay NAS featuring an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor and 4GB of expandable DDR4 RAM. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports and four M.2 NVMe slots for cache acceleration. This diskless unit supports 4K hardware transcoding, making it a capable media server for home or small office use.
Pros
- Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports
- Four M.2 NVMe slots for cache
- 4K hardware transcoding support
- Expandable DDR4 memory up to 16GB
Cons
- Comes diskless without included hard drives
- Higher power draw than entry-level Celeron models
- Tool-free design limits airflow optimization
Good fit if
- You need fast 2.5GbE network speeds
- You want to use NVMe SSDs for caching
- You require 4K media transcoding
Skip if
- You prefer a pre-loaded storage solution
- You only need 1GbE connectivity
- You want a silent fanless design
Verdict: Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 2-Bay NAS offers robust performance for media streaming and file management thanks to its quad-core CPU and dual 2.5GbE ports. It is ideal for users who prioritize network speed and expandable caching over simple plug-and-play storage.
QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS
Best for: users needing NVMe caching and 2.5GbE speeds
- 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
The QNAP TS-264-8G is a high-performance 2-bay desktop NAS built for speed. It features a quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. Dual 2.5GbE ports accelerate file sharing. Two M.2 NVMe slots allow for cache acceleration or SSD storage pools. This unit suits users needing fast local transfers and robust expansion options for media or heavy workloads.
Pros
- Quad-core Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 processor with 8GB RAM
- Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 NVMe SSD slots
- Dual 2.5GbE network ports for faster transfers
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports with 10Gb/s speeds
Cons
- Only two drive bays limit total storage capacity
- No mention of built-in wireless connectivity options
- Physical size is larger than compact entry-level models
Good fit if
- You need fast local network speeds for large files
- You want to use NVMe drives for caching
- You require USB expansion for external storage
Skip if
- You only need basic home backup storage
- You prefer a compact, silent desktop unit
- You want a diskless system to save cost
Verdict: QNAP TS-264-8G Desktop NAS delivers strong performance for users who prioritize speed and expandability over compact size. It fits those who need NVMe caching and 2.5GbE networking for demanding tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 2-Bay Desktop NAS Enclosure | Buffalo LinkStation 220 4TB 2-Bay NAS | QNAP 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage | QNAP TS-233 2-Bay NAS | QNAP TS-233 2-Bay Desktop NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 2-Bay NVMe NAS | QNAP TS-264 2-Bay Desktop NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2 Bay | 2 Bay | 2-Bay | 2 Bay |
| Network Connectivity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1x Gb LAN | not stated | Dual 2.5GbE | Dual 2.5GbE |
| Processor | not stated | not stated | not stated | ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-core 2.0 GHz | ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-core 2.0 GHz | Intel Celeron N5105 | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 |
| RAM Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2 GB RAM | 2 GB DDR4 RAM | 4GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 4 slots | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x1 |
| Included Storage | Diskless | 4TB | Diskless | not stated | Diskless | Diskless | Diskless |
| RAID Support | not stated | RAID 0, RAID 1 | RAID 0, 1, JBOD | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | not stated | not stated | Desktop | Desktop | not stated | Desktop |
| Hardware Interface | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | M.2 NVMe, HDMI | M.2 NVMe |
| Number of Bays | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay | 2-Bay |
| Processor Cores | not stated | not stated | not stated | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | Quad-Core |
| Intended Use | not stated | Home Users | not stated | not stated | not stated | Video Editors | not stated |
| Dimensions | 6.5 × 3.94 × 8.9 inches | 5.04 × 10 × 8.82 inches | 8.86 × 4.02 × 6.63 inches | 7.4 × 3.54 × 6.14 inches | 10.4 × 8.74 × 3.94 inches | 9.06 × 4.25 × 6.44 inches | 13 × 9 × 11 inches |
| Weight | 1.92 pounds | 1 pounds | 2.65 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 5.34 pounds | 5.11 pounds |
| Size | 2-bay | 4TB (2x2TB) | DAS | Enclosure | 2 Bay | 2 Bay | 2 Bay (Unav.) |
| Color | White | Black | Clear | Enclosure | black | AS67 | Clear |
| Model | DS223j | LS220D0402 | TR-002 | TS-233 | TS-233-US | AS6702T | TS-264-8G-US |
Frequently asked questions
Which NAS is best for home users seeking simple secure storage?
The BUFFALO LinkStation 220 is the best choice for home users seeking simple, secure storage. It comes with two 2TB drives pre-installed, providing 4TB of capacity right out of the box. This entry-level unit features a black finish and measures 10 inches wide. It is designed for centralized storage with automatic backup capabilities, making it ideal for users who want immediate capacity without buying separate drives.
What is the best budget alternative for expanding single computer storage?
The QNAP TR-002 is the best budget option for expanding storage for a single computer. This 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage device offers reliable local storage with hardware RAID options. It features a clear design and measures 4.02 inches wide. It suits users who need fast, secure expansion for a single PC or an existing QNAP system without the complexity of a full network-attached solution.
Which model offers the best premium performance for office file storage?
The QNAP TS-233 is the best premium choice for basic home and office file storage. It features a quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM for balanced performance and security. This desktop unit measures 3.54 inches wide and 6.14 inches high. It fits buyers who prioritize data protection and simplicity over high-end networking features, offering a practical entry-level option for reliable home storage.
How does the Asustor Lockerstor perform for media streaming?
The Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 is ideal for high-speed media streaming and caching. It features a quad-core CPU and dual 2.5GbE ports for robust performance in file management. This 2-Bay NAS measures 4.25 inches wide and weighs 5.34 pounds. It is designed for users who prioritize network speed and expandable caching over simple plug-and-play storage, making it suitable for demanding media tasks.
Which NAS supports NVMe caching and 2.5GbE networking speeds?
The QNAP TS-264 is the best option for users needing NVMe caching and 2.5GbE speeds. This 2-Bay Desktop NAS includes M.2 NVMe support and 5GbE connectivity. It features an Intel Celeron quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM. The unit measures 9 inches wide and 11 inches high. It delivers strong performance for users who prioritize speed and expandability over compact size for demanding tasks.
Is the Synology DS223j sold with hard drives included?
No, the Synology DS223j is a diskless option. It is designed for users who want to build their own storage capacity by installing drives separately. This compact unit measures 3.94 inches wide and 8.9 inches high. It fits home users who prioritize automated backups and IP camera support over included hardware, allowing you to choose the exact storage size you need.
What are the physical dimensions of the QNAP TR-002 DAS?
The QNAP TR-002 measures 4.02 inches wide, 6.63 inches high, and 8.86 inches long. It weighs 2.65 pounds and features a clear color design. As a 2-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage device, it offers a compact form factor for local storage. These dimensions make it suitable for desktop placement next to a single computer or existing QNAP system.