Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Synology DS925+ delivers strong performance with its AMD Ryzen processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. If you are looking for synology ds925 alternatives, this guide compares 6 similar picks based on overlapping specifications. The original model offers 4GB of expandable ECC RAM and four hot-swappable drive bays. It supports NVMe caching and includes pre-installed storage for immediate use. These features make it a solid choice for small business environments and virtualization tasks.
However, you might prefer a different configuration. Some users need a single 10GbE port for higher network speeds. Others may prioritize HDMI output for direct media streaming or a more compact 2-bay chassis. The selected alternatives share key specs like quad-core processors, NVMe slots, or 2.5GbE connectivity. This list helps you find a NAS that matches your specific hardware requirements. Each option is evaluated on how its specs compare to the DS925+ in practical use.
Our top pick: Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS.
How each alternative compares
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS
The Asustor AS6604T shares the 4-bay form factor and 4GB RAM capacity found in the Synology DS925+. It also features dual 2.5GbE ports and M.2 NVMe slots for caching. However, it lacks the Ryzen processor, using a generic quad-core chip instead. This model is lighter at 6.53 pounds, making it easier to mount or move. You should choose this if you prefer Asustor’s interface or need a slightly more compact chassis. It sacrifices the specific Ryzen performance for a different software ecosystem and physical footprint.
Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
The Synology DS725+ reduces the bay count from four to two, making it a compact option for smaller storage needs. It retains the AMD Ryzen processor and 4GB RAM, ensuring similar processing power in a smaller package. It includes dual 2.5GbE ports plus a 1GbE port for flexible networking. This model weighs just 6.61 pounds. Pick this if you need Synology’s DSM software but do not require four internal drives. It gives up raw storage density for a significantly smaller physical size and lower power consumption.
LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS
The LincPlus LincStation E1 is a 4-bay NAS with 4GB RAM and dual 2.5GbE ports, matching the Synology DS925+ in connectivity. Its key difference is the inclusion of an HDMI output, allowing direct connection to a monitor or TV. It supports hybrid storage with NVMe slots. Weighing only 2 pounds, it is extremely lightweight compared to the Synology unit. Choose this if you want to stream 4K media directly to a display. It lacks the Ryzen processor and enterprise-grade features, focusing instead on media playback and local streaming capabilities.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD
The Asustor AS6704T is a 4-bay NAS with 4GB RAM and a single 5GbE port, differing from the Synology’s dual 2.5GbE setup. It includes HDMI output and NVMe slots for caching. This model weighs 11.9 pounds, making it heavier than the Synology option. It is designed for users prioritizing fast networking and SSD caching over expandable RAM. Select this if you need high-speed local transfers and direct video output. It sacrifices the dual port flexibility of the Synology for a single high-speed link and media-centric features.
QNAP 4-Bay 10GbE SFP+ NAS
The QNAP TS-431X3 offers 4-bay storage with a unique combination of 2.5GbE and 10GbE ports. Unlike the Synology DS925+, it provides a single 10GbE SFP+ port for high-speed networking. It lacks the Ryzen processor and ECC RAM found in the Synology unit. This model weighs 5.1 pounds, making it one of the lightest options. Pick this if you need 10GbE connectivity for a specific high-speed link rather than dual 2.5GbE. It is ideal for building custom storage arrays with your own drives, focusing on network flexibility over integrated processing power.
Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor AS3304T is a 4-bay NAS with dual 2.5GbE ports, similar to the Synology DS925+. However, it has only 2GB of RAM, half the capacity of the Synology. It uses a quad-core processor without specifying Ryzen. This model weighs 4.85 pounds, making it significantly lighter. Choose this if you need a budget-friendly 4-bay NAS for home media servers or light backup tasks. It gives up the Ryzen performance and ECC memory for a lower cost and lighter weight, focusing on app variety and media playback rather than raw processing power.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS
Best for: Small businesses needing 16TB in a 4-bay chassis
- 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 Seagate Ironwolf drives for a 16TB total capacity. It uses an AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor and 4GB of ECC RAM. The unit features dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots. You can expand storage up to 9 bays. It suits small businesses needing reliable data storage and virtualization support.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor
- 4GB DDR4 ECC RAM, expandable to 32GB
- Dual 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for cache or storage
Cons
- 4GB RAM is lower than the 8GB found in the DS1525+
- Weighs 13.2 pounds, making it heavier than compact 2-bay models
- Limited to 4 bays, whereas the DS1525+ offers 5 bays
Good fit if
- You need a 4-bay NAS with 16TB of pre-installed storage
- You want dual 2.5GbE ports for faster network transfers
- You plan to use M.2 NVMe drives for caching
Skip if
- You require more than 4 drive bays
- You need more than 4GB of RAM without upgrading
- You prefer a lighter, more portable device
Verdict: Synology DS925+ 16TB NAS offers strong performance with its Ryzen processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. It is the right choice for users who need a compact 4-bay solution with substantial pre-installed storage.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS
Best for: users needing dual 2.5GbE ports
- 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 is a 4-bay NAS with a quad-core 2.0GHz processor and 4GB DDR4 RAM. It features two 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 NVMe slots. This unit supports extensive app usage and includes four free IP camera licenses. It suits users needing reliable local storage with flexible expansion options for media or backup tasks.
Pros
- Quad-Core 2.0GHz processor
- 4GB DDR4 RAM
- Two 2.5GbE network ports
- Two M.2 NVMe slots
- Four free IP camera licenses
Cons
- No 10GbE port included
- Diskless configuration
- Heavier at 6.53 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast 2.5GbE connectivity
- You want to expand storage with NVMe drives
- You require IP camera surveillance integration
Skip if
- You need 10GbE network speeds
- You prefer a pre-loaded storage unit
- You require a rackmount form factor
Verdict: Asustor Lockerstor 4 4-Bay NAS offers solid performance for users who value dual 2.5GbE ports and NVMe expansion over higher network speeds. It is a practical choice for home offices or small businesses needing flexible storage and camera support.
Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS
Best for: Compact home and small office storage
- Drive Bays
- 2-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE
- Processor
- Ryzen R1600
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB
- M.2 NVMe Slots
- 2 slots
- Included Storage
- 8TB
View on Amazon: Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS Affiliate link
The Synology DS725+ is a compact 2-bay NAS designed for home and small-office use. It features a quad-core Ryzen R1600 processor and 4GB of RAM for smooth multitasking. Network connectivity includes one 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port. You can expand storage by adding up to five extra drive bays via a DX525 unit, reaching 140 TB. It also supports two M.2 NVMe slots for caching.
Pros
- Quad-core Ryzen R1600 processor for responsive performance
- Two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching
- Expandable storage up to 140 TB with DX525
- Dual Ethernet ports: 1x 2.5GbE and 1x 1GbE
Cons
- Only two drive bays limit local storage density
- Single 1GbE port may bottleneck large transfers
- 4GB RAM is lower than many 4-bay competitors
Good fit if
- You need a compact NAS for home or small office
- You want to expand storage with external drive enclosures
- You require NVMe caching for faster access
Skip if
- You need more than two internal drive bays
- You require dual 2.5GbE or 10GbE connectivity
- You need more than 4GB of RAM for heavy multitasking
Verdict: Synology DS725+ 2-Bay NAS offers solid performance for small setups with expandable storage options. It fits users who value compact design and NVMe caching over high internal drive counts.
LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS
Best for: 4K media streaming and hybrid NVMe storage
- 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 LincStation E1 is a 4-bay NAS with a quad-core 2.0GHz processor and 4GB RAM. It features two SATA bays and two M.2 NVMe slots for up to 76TB. A 2.5GbE port and HDMI 2.0 output set it apart from standard alternatives. It suits users wanting local media streaming and hybrid storage without subscription fees.
Pros
- Quad-core 2.0GHz processor with 4GB DDR4 RAM
- Hybrid 4-bay design with 2x SATA and 2x M.2 NVMe slots
- Dedicated HDMI 2.0 port for 4K video playback
- 2.5GbE network port for faster local transfers
Cons
- Only one 2.5GbE port, unlike competitors with dual ports
- No mention of 10GbE connectivity for high-speed networking
- Proprietary LincOS may lack the mature app ecosystem of major brands
Good fit if
- You want to stream 4K media directly to a TV via HDMI
- You prefer a hybrid setup using NVMe drives for speed
- You want to avoid monthly subscription fees for cloud storage
Skip if
- You need dual 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports for heavy redundancy
- You rely on established third-party mobile apps for remote access
- You prefer a standard SATA-only configuration without NVMe slots
Verdict: LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS fits users who want a media-focused NAS with HDMI output and hybrid storage. It is ideal for those prioritizing local 4K streaming and NVMe speed over standard enterprise features.
Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD
Best for: Fast networking and SSD caching
- 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
The Asustor AS6704T is a 4-bay NAS featuring a Quad-Core Intel Celeron N5105 CPU and 4 GB of DDR4 RAM. It stands out with dual 5-Gigabit Ethernet ports and four M.2 NVMe slots for high-speed caching. This unit includes three 4TB SSDs, offering immediate storage. It suits users needing fast local network speeds and flexible SSD expansion alongside traditional drive bays.
Pros
- Dual 5-Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Four M.2 NVMe slots
- Includes three 4TB SSDs
- Intel Celeron N5105 processor
Cons
- Only 4 GB of RAM
- Heavier than compact alternatives
- No HDMI display output
Good fit if
- You need dual 5GbE connectivity
- You want four M.2 NVMe slots
- You prefer pre-installed SSDs
Skip if
- You require more than 4 GB of RAM
- You need HDMI video output
- You want a lighter desktop unit
Verdict: Asustor AS6704T 4-Bay NAS delivers high-speed networking and SSD caching for users prioritizing performance over expandable RAM.
QNAP 4-Bay 10GbE SFP+ NAS
Best for: Users needing a single 10GbE port
- Drive Bays
- 4-Bay
- Network Connectivity
- 1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE
- Processor
- AnnapurnaLabs AL-314
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB DDR3L
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 10 × 10 × 10 inches
View on Amazon: QNAP 4-Bay 10GbE SFP+ NAS Affiliate link
The QNAP TS-431X3 is a 4-bay NAS featuring a 1.7GHz quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM. It stands out with a single 10GbE SFP+ port, a 2.5GbE port, and a 1GbE port. This mix of speeds suits users needing high-throughput connections alongside standard networking. It arrives diskless, allowing you to select your own storage drives for your specific capacity needs.
Pros
- Includes a dedicated 10GbE SFP+ port for high-speed networking
- Features a secondary 2.5GbE port for flexible connectivity
- Equipped with a 1.7GHz quad-core AnnapurnaLabs processor
- Supports up to 8GB of RAM via a single SODIMM slot
Cons
- Only one 10GbE port limits multi-link aggregation options
- No included storage drives require separate purchase
- Base RAM is 4GB, which may limit heavy virtualization
Good fit if
- You need a single high-speed 10GbE connection for media or backups
- You want a 4-bay chassis for expanding storage later
- You prefer mixing 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports on one device
Skip if
- You require dual 10GbE ports for link aggregation
- You need a NAS with pre-installed hard drives
- You want more than 4 drive bays for large arrays
Verdict: The QNAP TS-431X3 4-Bay NAS with 10GbE fits users who prioritize a single high-speed 10GbE link over multiple ports. It is a solid choice for those building a custom storage array with their own drives.
Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS
Best for: home media servers and light SOHO backup
- 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 with a 1.4GHz quad-core CPU and 2GB of DDR4 RAM. It features a 2.5GbE port and supports 10-bit 4K H.265 hardware decoding. You get over 200 apps for media and backup. This unit suits home or small office users who need reliable storage with decent media handling capabilities.
Pros
- 2GB DDR4 RAM for stable operation
- 1.4GHz Quad-Core Realtek RTD 1296 CPU
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for faster networking
- Hardware decoding for 4K H.265 media playback
- Supports over 200 unique apps via App Central
Cons
- Only 2GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- Single 2.5GbE port lacks link aggregation
- Lower 1.4GHz CPU speed compared to competitors
Good fit if
- You need a 4-bay NAS for home or SOHO use
- You want hardware-accelerated 4K media transcoding
- You prefer a compact 4-bay design with 2.5GbE
Skip if
- You require 4GB of RAM for intensive virtualization
- You need multiple high-speed network ports
- You want a faster multi-core processor for heavy workloads
Verdict: Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro 4-Bay NAS fits users who prioritize media playback and app variety over raw processing power and RAM capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 4-Bay 16TB NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay Quad-Core NAS | Synology 2-Bay AMD Ryzen NAS | LincPlus LincStation E1 4-Bay NAS | Asustor Lockerstor 4-Bay NAS with 12TB SSD | QNAP 4-Bay 10GbE SFP+ NAS | Asustor AS3304T 4-Bay NAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 2-Bay | 4-Bay | 4 Bay | 4-Bay | 4 Bay |
| Network Connectivity | 2x 2.5GbE | 2x 2.5GbE | 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE | 2.5GbE | Dual 5GbE | 1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE | 1 x 2.5GbE |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen V1500B Quad-Core | Quad-Core 2.0GHz | Ryzen R1600 | Quad-Core Cortex-A55 | Intel Celeron N5105 | AnnapurnaLabs AL-314 | Realtek RTD 1296 |
| RAM Capacity | 4 GB DDR4 ECC | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB DDR4 | 4GB DDR3L | 2GB DDR4 |
| M.2 NVMe Slots | 2 slots | 2 slots | 2 slots | 2 slots | 4 slots | not stated | not stated |
| Included Storage | 16TB | Diskless | 8TB | Diskless | 3 x 4TB SSD | Diskless | Diskless |
| Hardware Interface | not stated | M.2 NVMe | M.2 NVMe | SATA, M.2 NVMe, HDMI | M.2 NVMe, HDMI | not stated | not stated |
| Number of Bays | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 2-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay | 4-Bay |
| Processor Cores | not stated | Quad-Core | not stated | Quad-Core | Quad-Core | not stated | Quad-Core |
| Weight | 13.2 pounds | 6.53 pounds | 6.61 pounds | 2 pounds | 11.9 pounds | 5.1 pounds | 4.85 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 9.06 × 6.69 × 7.3 inches | 8.78 × 4.17 × 6.54 inches | not stated | 10 × 12 × 13 inches | 10 × 10 × 10 inches | 9.06 × 6.85 × 6.69 inches |
| Size | 16TB | 4 Bay | 6.54 inches H x 4.17 inches W x 8.78 inches D | not stated | 3X4TB | 2.5GbE and 10GbE Ports | 4 Bay |
| Model | DS925+/8TB-IW | AS6604T | DS725+/8TB-IW | not stated | not stated | TS-431X3 | AS3304T |
| Color | not stated | AS6604T | gray | not stated | not stated | black | Drivestor Pro |
When you plan network upgrades for your storage setup, you can compare asus asus alternatives for wireless hardware.
Frequently asked questions
Which Synology NAS is the best alternative to the DS925+ for small businesses?
The Synology DS925+ itself is the top pick for small businesses needing 16TB in a compact 4-bay chassis. It features an AMD Ryzen processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. This model provides strong performance and substantial pre-installed storage for users who require a reliable, high-capacity solution without expanding to a larger unit.
What is the best budget-friendly 4-bay NAS alternative with HDMI output?
The LincPlus LincStation E1 is the best budget option for users prioritizing local 4K streaming. It includes an HDMI output and hybrid storage capabilities using SATA and M.2 NVMe drives. This quad-core NAS is ideal for media-focused setups where you want fast NVMe speed over standard enterprise features.
Which NAS offers the fastest networking speeds among these alternatives?
The QNAP TS-431X3 offers the fastest networking with a single 10GbE SFP+ port alongside 2.5GbE and 5GbE options. It is designed for users who prioritize a single high-speed link for custom storage arrays. This model fits those who need maximum throughput for specific high-bandwidth tasks rather than multiple lower-speed ports.
Is there a 2-bay alternative if I do not need four drive bays?
The Synology DS725+ is the best 2-bay alternative for compact home and small office storage. It uses an AMD Ryzen processor and supports 5GbE and 2.5GbE connectivity. This model is suitable for users who value a smaller footprint and NVMe caching over having four internal drive slots for massive capacity.
Which NAS supports SSD caching for faster performance?
The Asustor AS6704T supports SSD caching and delivers high-speed networking for performance-focused users. It includes HDMI output and M.2 NVMe interfaces. This model prioritizes speed and caching capabilities over expandable RAM, making it a practical choice for users who need rapid data access for their specific workflow requirements.
What are the physical dimensions of the Asustor Lockerstor 4-bay NAS?
The Asustor AS6604T measures 9.06 inches in length, 6.69 inches in width, and 7.3 inches in height. It weighs 6.53 pounds. This compact form factor makes it suitable for home offices or small business environments where space is limited but dual 2.5GbE ports and NVMe expansion are still required.