Synology 4-Bay Expandable Rackmount NAS Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Synology RS822+ is a robust 4-bay expandable rackmount NAS that supports high throughput and network redundancy. It is diskless, allowing you to select drives that match your specific capacity and performance needs. This flexibility makes it a strong foundation for scalable storage infrastructure. However, you might look for synology 4 bay expandable rackmount NAS alternatives if you need pre-installed storage, a different form factor, or a lower price point. Some users prefer units with built-in RAID configurations or direct-attached storage options for simpler setups.
The 6 picks compared here share key specifications with the original, such as the 4-bay design and rackmount compatibility. We selected these products because their specs overlap with the Synology RS822+, offering comparable capabilities in different packages. The list includes expansion units, Thunderbolt enclosures, and other rackmount options. Each product is evaluated based on its published data, including drive capacity, connectivity, and physical dimensions. You can compare these options to find the best fit for your workflow. This guide focuses on technical details to help you make an informed decision without subjective bias.
Our top pick: Synology 4-Bay Expandable Rackmount NAS.
How the alternatives compare
Synology 4-Bay Rackmount Expansion Unit
The Synology RX418 is not a standalone NAS. It is an expansion unit designed to add four more bays to your existing Synology system. While the RS822+ stands alone, this unit scales your current setup. It shares the same rackmount form factor, measuring 17 inches in length and 1.73 inches in height. It weighs 9.44 pounds, making it lighter than the main NAS. You should pick this if you already have a Synology NAS and need more space. It does not offer independent network connectivity or processing power. It relies on your primary NAS for all operations and data management.
G-Technology 32TB G-Speed Shuttle
The G-Technology Shuttle uses Thunderbolt 3 instead of Ethernet. It connects directly to your computer rather than your network. This unit comes with 32TB of storage, whereas the RS822+ is diskless. It is heavier at 16 pounds and smaller in width. You should choose this for mobile video editing workflows where portability and speed matter more than network sharing. It lacks rackmount capabilities and network redundancy features. It is best for professionals who move large 4K or 8K files between workstations. It does not support expandability or multiple user access over a local network.
QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Hardware RAID Enclosure
The QNAP TR-004 is a Direct Attached Storage device. It connects via USB-C, not Ethernet. It is diskless, similar to the RS822+, but lacks network capabilities. It is much smaller and lighter, weighing only 4.08 pounds. You should pick this if you need secure local expansion for a compatible QNAP NAS. It does not support standalone operation or network failover. It is ideal for users who want hardware RAID protection without network complexity. It is not suitable for multi-user environments or remote access. It serves as a secure backup or expansion tool for specific QNAP systems.
QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage
This QNAP TR-004 model comes with 12TB pre-installed. Like the diskless version, it uses USB-C for connection. It is a DAS, not a NAS. It lacks network ports and independent operating system features. You should choose this for secure local backup or expanded storage for a single workstation. It offers pre-configured RAID, which simplifies setup. It does not support network sharing or remote access. It is heavier than the diskless version but still much smaller than the rackmount NAS. It is best for users who prioritize physical security and simple plug-and-play expansion over network flexibility.
G-Technology 56TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3
The G-Technology Shuttle with 56TB offers massive capacity. It uses Thunderbolt 3 for high-speed transfers. It is a portable DAS, not a network device. It weighs 16 pounds and is compact for its capacity. You should pick this if you need high-capacity storage for mobile video editing. It does not support network connectivity or rackmount installation. It is best for professionals who move large files between computers. It lacks the expandability and redundancy features of the RS822+. It is not suitable for shared network storage or multi-user access. It focuses on speed and capacity for individual workflows.
QNAP TR-004U 4 Bay Rackmount NAS
The QNAP TR-004U is a rackmount expansion unit. It is designed to expand existing QNAP NAS systems. It is not a standalone NAS. It lacks independent network processing and operating system features. It measures 21.3 inches in length and weighs 4.41 pounds. You should choose this if you have a QNAP NAS and need more bays. It does not support non-QNAP systems or standalone operation. It provides secure, hardware-configurable storage expansion. It is best for users who want to scale their QNAP infrastructure without adding another full NAS. It offers no independent network connectivity or user management.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Synology 4-Bay Expandable Rackmount NAS
Best for: Expandable rackmount storage with network redundancy
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 4 x 1GbE
- RAM Capacity
- 32GB
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 19.3 × 17.2 × 10 inches
- Weight
- 18.7 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay Expandable Rackmount NAS Affiliate link
The Synology RS822+ is a 4-bay rackmount NAS designed for expandable storage. It delivers over 2,103 MB/s read speeds and includes four 1GbE ports for network flexibility. You can scale capacity by adding an RX418 expansion unit. This diskless model suits users who need high throughput and reliable network failover in a rackmount form factor.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds exceed 2,103 MB/s
- Four 1GbE ports support load balancing
- Expandable via Synology RX418 unit
- Supports optional SSD cache for IOPS
Cons
- Limited to 1GbE ports without expansion cards
- Diskless configuration requires separate drive purchase
- Heavy at 18.7 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a rackmount solution for server rooms
- You require network failover capabilities
- You plan to expand storage later
Skip if
- You need pre-installed storage drives
- You require 10GbE connectivity out of the box
- You prefer a desktop form factor
Verdict: Synology RS822+ Rackmount NAS is a robust choice for IT professionals who need scalable, high-speed storage in a rackmount chassis. It fits users who prioritize network redundancy and future expansion over immediate drive inclusion.
Synology 4-Bay Rackmount Expansion Unit
Best for: expanding existing Synology NAS storage
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 17 × 11.4 × 1.73 inches
- Weight
- 9.44 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 4-Bay Rackmount Expansion Unit Affiliate link
The Synology RX418 is a diskless 4-bay expansion unit designed to add storage to existing Synology NAS systems. It features a compact 12-inch depth that fits standard 2-post racks and wall mounts. You manage it through Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) for online volume expansion. The unit supports deep sleep mode for energy savings. It weighs 9.44 pounds and measures 1.73 inches in height.
Pros
- 4-bay capacity for additional drive installation
- Plug-and-play design for seamless integration
- Compact 12-inch depth fits 2-post racks
- Managed via Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM)
Cons
- Requires existing Synology NAS to function
- Sold without internal hard drives included
- Limited to expansion rather than standalone use
Good fit if
- You need to expand storage on a Synology NAS
- You require a rackmountable expansion unit
- You want online volume expansion capabilities
Skip if
- You need a standalone NAS without existing hardware
- You prefer pre-configured storage with drives included
- You require a non-Synology ecosystem solution
Verdict: Synology RX418 4-Bay Expansion Unit is ideal for users expanding an existing Synology NAS setup with rackmount flexibility. It offers seamless integration for those prioritizing storage growth over standalone operation.
G-Technology 32TB G-Speed Shuttle
Best for: mobile 4K/8K video production workflows
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Included Storage
- 32TB
- RAID Support
- 0, 1, 5, 10
- Hardware Interface
- Thunderbolt
- Dimensions
- 9.75 × 6.85 × 10.5 inches
- Weight
- 16 pounds
View on Amazon: G-Technology 32TB G-Speed Shuttle Affiliate link
The G-Technology G-Speed Shuttle is a transportable 4-bay storage solution designed for demanding production workflows. It features a 32TB capacity and supports multi-stream 4K and 8K video editing. The drive includes built-in hardware RAID for data protection and connects via Thunderbolt. Its rugged, portable design allows for easy travel between studio and location shoots, making it a robust option for mobile professionals.
Pros
- 32TB storage capacity for large media files
- Built-in hardware RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 support
- Optimized for multi-stream 4K and 8K workflows
- Transportable design for studio and location use
- Thunderbolt interface for high-speed data transfer
Cons
- Limited to 32TB capacity compared to 56TB alternatives
- No mention of network connectivity or remote access
- Heavier at 16 pounds, less portable than DAS options
Good fit if
- You need high-capacity storage for 4K or 8K video editing
- You work in a mobile production environment
- You require hardware RAID for data redundancy
Skip if
- You need a rackmount NAS with network capabilities
- You require more than 32TB of storage
- You prefer a lighter, more portable device
Verdict: G-Technology 32TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3 is a solid choice for video editors who need high capacity and mobility. It suits professionals who work with large 4K or 8K files and require hardware RAID for data protection.
QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Hardware RAID Enclosure
Best for: expanding compatible QNAP NAS capacity
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- RAID Support
- RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD
- Dimensions
- 8.62 × 6.31 × 6.63 inches
- Weight
- 4.08 pounds
View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Hardware RAID Enclosure Affiliate link
The QNAP TR-004 is a 4-bay direct-attached storage unit connecting via USB Type-C. It supports hardware RAID 0, 1, 5, and JBOD for data redundancy. This diskless chassis expands capacity for compatible QNAP NAS systems or serves as external backup storage. You should use it if you need simple, high-speed storage expansion without managing a full network server.
Pros
- Hardware RAID support for RAID 0, 1, 5, and JBOD
- USB Type-C connection for fast data transfer
- Lockable drive bays for physical security
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
Cons
- Does not support NAS applications or network services
- Limited to specific QNAP NAS models for expansion
- Data migration between NAS and TR-004 is not supported
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for a compatible QNAP NAS
- You want hardware RAID without a full NAS setup
- You require lockable drive bays for security
Skip if
- You need to run apps or services on the storage
- You use a non-QNAP NAS for expansion
- You want to mix drives between NAS and TR-004
Verdict: The QNAP TR-004 4-Bay USB-C DAS is a practical expansion tool for users with compatible QNAP systems who need reliable hardware RAID and secure, diskless storage capacity.
QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage
Best for: NAS backup and secure local expansion
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Included Storage
- 12TB
- RAID Support
- RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD
View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage Affiliate link
The QNAP TR-004 is a 4-bay direct-attached storage unit designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It comes with 12TB of capacity using four pre-installed Seagate IronWolf drives configured in RAID 5. This bundle includes a 3-year data recovery plan. You can use it as external storage for a NAS backup or to expand your QNAP NAS capacity. The drive bays are lockable for physical security.
Pros
- Includes 12TB of pre-installed storage in RAID 5
- Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB Type-C connections
- Features lockable drive bays for added security
- Includes 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services
Cons
- Limited to USB 3.2 Gen 1 speeds
- No built-in network connectivity for direct sharing
- Only supports SATA drives, not NVMe SSDs
Good fit if
- You need a secure, locked external storage solution for your existing NAS
- You want pre-configured RAID 5 protection without manual setup
- You use Windows, macOS, or Linux systems
Skip if
- You require high-speed 10GbE or 25GbE networking
- You need a standalone NAS with its own operating system
- You want to connect via Thunderbolt 3 or 4
Verdict: The QNAP TR-004 4-Bay DAS with 12TB is a practical backup drive for users who already have a NAS and need secure, expanded local storage. It suits those who value pre-configured RAID and physical lockable bays over network speed.
G-Technology 56TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3
Best for: high-speed portable video editing workflows
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Included Storage
- 56TB
- Hardware Interface
- Thunderbolt
- Dimensions
- 9.75 × 6.85 × 10.5 inches
View on Amazon: G-Technology 56TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3 Affiliate link
This 4-bay transportable drive offers 56TB of storage via Thunderbolt. It delivers sustained transfer rates up to 1000MB/s. The unit includes an ev Bay Adapter for drive replacement. It supports multi-stream 4K and 8K workflows. You should consider this if you need high-capacity, portable storage for video editing.
Pros
- 56TB storage capacity for large media libraries
- Sustained transfer rates up to 1000MB/s
- Optimized for multi-stream 4K and 8K workflows
- Includes ev Bay Adapter for easy drive swaps
Cons
- Thunderbolt interface limits compatibility to specific ports
- No built-in network connectivity for shared access
- Larger physical footprint than standard desktop drives
Good fit if
- You edit high-resolution video on compatible hosts
- You need high-speed direct attachment for large files
- You require transportable storage for field work
Skip if
- You need a network-attached storage solution
- Your computer lacks Thunderbolt ports
- You require internal rackmount installation
Verdict: G-Technology 56TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3 provides high-speed, high-capacity storage for mobile professionals. It fits users who prioritize transfer speeds and portability over network sharing.
QNAP TR-004U 4 Bay Rackmount NAS
Best for: expanding existing QNAP NAS systems
- Drive Bays
- 4 Bay
- Network Connectivity
- USB 3.0 Type-C
- Form Factor
- Rackmount
- Dimensions
- 21.3 × 16.5 × 7.87 inches
- Weight
- 4.41 pounds
View on Amazon: QNAP TR-004U 4 Bay Rackmount NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TR-004U is a 4-bay rackmount unit designed to expand storage for QNAP NAS systems. It features USB 3.0 Type-C connectivity for faster data transfer and supports up to four SATA drives. You can configure RAID groups using dip switches or manage them via Storage & Snapshots Manager. This unit serves as hardware-based RAID storage or offers cross-platform file sharing.
Pros
- USB 3.0 Type-C port for faster data transfer
- Supports up to four SATA drives
- Lockable hard drive trays prevent accidental removal
- Dip switches allow hardware RAID configuration
Cons
- Requires a QNAP NAS for full software management
- Limited to USB 3.0 connection speeds
- No mention of Thunderbolt or PCIe expansion
Good fit if
- You need to add 4-bay storage to an existing QNAP NAS
- You prefer hardware RAID control via dip switches
- You want lockable drive trays for security
Skip if
- You use a non-QNAP NAS system
- You require Thunderbolt 3 connectivity
- You need a standalone diskless NAS
Verdict: The QNAP TR-004U 4-Bay Rackmount Expansion fits users who need to expand an existing QNAP NAS with secure, hardware-configurable storage. It is not suitable for standalone use or non-QNAP systems.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 4-Bay Expandable Rackmount NAS | Synology 4-Bay Rackmount Expansion Unit | G-Technology 32TB G-Speed Shuttle | QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Hardware RAID Enclosure | QNAP 4-Bay USB-C Direct Attached Storage | G-Technology 56TB G-Speed Shuttle Thunderbolt 3 | QNAP TR-004U 4 Bay Rackmount NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4 Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 4 x 1GbE | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | USB 3.0 Type-C |
| RAM Capacity | 32GB | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Included Storage | Diskless | Diskless | 32TB | Diskless | 12TB | 56TB | not stated |
| RAID Support | not stated | not stated | 0, 1, 5, 10 | RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD | RAID 0, 1, 5, JBOD | not stated | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Rackmount |
| Hardware Interface | not stated | not stated | Thunderbolt | not stated | not stated | Thunderbolt | not stated |
| Number of Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Dimensions | 19.3 × 17.2 × 10 inches | 17 × 11.4 × 1.73 inches | 9.75 × 6.85 × 10.5 inches | 8.62 × 6.31 × 6.63 inches | not stated | 9.75 × 6.85 × 10.5 inches | 21.3 × 16.5 × 7.87 inches |
| Weight | 18.7 pounds | 9.44 pounds | 16 pounds | 4.08 pounds | not stated | not stated | 4.41 pounds |
| Size | RS822+ | 44 mm x 480 mm x 325 mm | 32TB | 4 Bay | 4 Bay | 56TB | 4 Bay |
| Color | Not Available | black | Black | Diskless | Black | not stated | Black |
| Model | RS822+ | RX418 | 0G10077 | TR-004-US | TR-004 | 0G10401 | TR-004U |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these units as standalone NAS devices?
Most options in this list are expansion units, not standalone NAS systems. The Synology RX418 and QNAP TR-004U are designed specifically to add capacity to existing Synology or QNAP NAS enclosures. They cannot operate independently. However, the Synology RS822+ and G-Technology Shuttles function as primary storage devices or direct-attached storage, allowing you to manage them without a host system.
Which alternative is best for video editing workflows?
The G-Technology G-Speed Shuttle models are ideal for mobile video production. Both the 32TB and 56TB versions use Thunderbolt 3 interfaces for high-speed data transfer. They support hardware RAID for data protection and are built for handling large 4K or 8K files. Their portable design suits professionals who need high capacity on the go rather than network sharing.
Do I need to buy hard drives separately?
It depends on the specific model you choose. The Synology RS822+ and the standard QNAP TR-004 are diskless, meaning you must purchase hard drives separately. This allows you to select drives that match your capacity needs. In contrast, the QNAP TR-004 with 12TB comes pre-configured with storage, offering immediate use without additional drive purchases.
Which options support hardware RAID?
Several units in this guide feature hardware RAID for data protection. The G-Technology G-Speed Shuttle models include hardware RAID capabilities to safeguard your files. The QNAP TR-004 series also offers reliable hardware RAID configuration. This feature ensures data redundancy without relying on the host computer's processing power, which is crucial for maintaining performance during drive failures.
Are all these units rackmount compatible?
No, only specific models are designed for rackmount installation. The Synology RS822+ and the QNAP TR-004U are explicitly built as rackmount devices, fitting standard server racks. The Synology RX418 is also a rackmount expansion unit. Other options, like the G-Technology Shuttles and the standard QNAP TR-004, are portable or desktop units intended for desk use or mobile workflows.
Can I expand my existing Synology NAS with these?
Yes, but you must choose the correct expansion unit. The Synology RX418 is designed to seamlessly integrate with and expand existing Synology NAS setups. It adds four additional bays to your current system. Other units, such as the QNAP TR-004U, are compatible only with QNAP systems. Standalone units like the RS822+ do not expand existing networks but replace them.
Which is the best choice for IT professionals needing redundancy?
The Synology RS822+ is the top pick for IT professionals requiring network redundancy and scalability. It offers a robust rackmount chassis with support for high throughput. This model allows you to prioritize future expansion and network integration. It is particularly suited for users who need a reliable foundation for scalable storage infrastructure rather than simple direct-attached storage.