Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power vs Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation: Spec Comparison
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This comparison covers the synology rx1217rp redundant power expansion vs 8 bay rackstation. Both units are diskless, meaning you must supply your own drives. They share redundant power supplies for uptime. The main difference is function. The RX1217RP is an expansion chassis for existing systems. The RS1221RP+ is a standalone 8-bay server with its own processor and RAM. You need to decide if you need more bays or a new core unit.
Key differences
| Aspect | Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power Expansion Unit | Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Expansion chassis | Standalone server |
| Drive Bays | Diskless (expansion) | 8-bay |
| RAM Capacity | Not listed | 4GB |
| Dimensions | 17 x 3.46 x 27.4 inches | 20.8 x 8.5 x 22.5 inches |
| Weight | 29.5 pounds | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power Expansion Unit if
- You already have a Synology RackStation and need more drive bays.
- You require a compact 2U footprint for your rack setup.
- You want a diskless unit that plugs directly into your existing system.
Choose Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation if
- You need a complete, standalone 8-bay server with its own CPU and RAM.
- You want high read speeds up to 2,315 MB/s.
- You need to configure a High Availability cluster for maximum uptime.
Verdict: Choose the RX1217RP if you are expanding an existing Synology RackStation and need more storage bays without buying a new core unit. Pick the RS1221RP+ if you need a standalone 8-bay server with its own processing power and RAM. Both offer redundant power for reliability.
RX1217RP vs RS1221RP+ Spec Comparison
Number of drive bays
The Synology RX1217RP is a diskless expansion unit with zero built-in drive bays. It is designed to add storage capacity to an existing Synology RackStation system. You must install drives into this chassis yourself. In contrast, the Synology RS1221RP+ is an 8-bay RackStation. It provides eight slots for hard drives or SSDs out of the box. Both units are diskless in their base configuration, but the RS1221RP+ offers immediate storage density. The RX1217RP requires a host system to function as a storage node. For standalone storage needs, the 8-bay RS1221RP+ is the clear choice. The RX1217RP is strictly an expansion module.
RAM capacity
The Synology RS1221RP+ includes 4GB of DDR4 RAM as a standard specification. This memory supports the NAS operating system and caching tasks. The data for the Synology RX1217RP does not list any internal RAM capacity. This is expected because the RX1217RP is a diskless expansion chassis. It relies on the host RackStation system for processing power and memory management. Therefore, it does not have its own independent memory resources. If you need a self-contained unit with its own memory, the RS1221RP+ is superior. The RX1217RP has no listed RAM because it is not a standalone server. It acts as a storage extension for another device.
Physical dimensions
The Synology RX1217RP measures 17 inches in width, 3.46 inches in height, and 27.4 inches in length. It weighs 29.5 pounds and is a 2U form factor. The Synology RS1221RP+ measures 20.8 inches in width, 8.5 inches in height, and 22.5 inches in length. The RX1217RP is wider and taller in height but slightly longer in depth. The RS1221RP+ is significantly taller at 8.5 inches compared to the 3.46-inch profile of the RX1217RP. Both are designed for rack mounting. The RX1217RP is slimmer, which may suit specific rack layouts. The RS1221RP+ is a standard 2U height for enterprise racks. Your rack space requirements will dictate which footprint works best.
Primary function
The Synology RX1217RP is explicitly a redundant power expansion unit. Its primary function is to plug into an existing Synology DiskStation Manager system to expand storage. It allows for online volume expansion on the fly. The Synology RS1221RP+ is a standalone 8-bay RackStation. It is designed to tackle multi-user environments and can be configured in a High Availability cluster. The RS1221RP+ offers up to 2,315 MB/s read performance. The RX1217RP cannot function independently. It requires a host to manage the drives. If you need a complete server, the RS1221RP+ is the correct choice. The RX1217RP is only useful if you already own a compatible host.
Network capabilities
The Synology RS1221RP+ features support for PCIe SFP+ or RJ-45 network cards. This allows you to improve network performance by up to 5X. You can select cards from the compatibility list to suit your infrastructure. The data for the Synology RX1217RP does not list specific network interface specifications. This is consistent with its role as an expansion chassis. Network connectivity is handled by the host system it connects to. The RX1217RP does not have independent network ports listed in the specs. For direct network performance tuning, the RS1221RP+ offers more control. You can upgrade its network hardware directly. The RX1217RP relies entirely on the host's network configuration.
Which Synology RackStation Should You Buy
Existing RackStation owner needing more space
The RX1217RP is a diskless expansion unit designed to plug directly into your current Synology RackStation system. It allows for online volume expansion without downtime. You get redundant power supplies to ensure service uptime. This 2U chassis adds capacity seamlessly, managed through DiskStation Manager, making it ideal for scaling storage without replacing your main unit.
New setup requiring standalone high performance
The RS1221RP+ is a standalone 8-bay system with 4GB RAM and robust performance up to 2,315 MB/s read. It supports PCIe network cards for 5X network improvement. You can configure two units for high availability clusters with minute-level failover. This unit offers built-in drive bays and advanced networking options for a complete initial deployment.
Admin prioritizing high availability clusters
This model supports Synology High Availability clusters for maximum service uptime. You can pair two units for minute-level failover protection. The included 4GB RAM and 8-bay configuration provide a solid foundation. Unlike the expansion unit, this system stands alone and offers specific features for enterprise-grade redundancy and network performance optimization.
The products compared
Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power Expansion Unit
Best for: expanding RackStation storage capacity
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- Dimensions
- 27.4 × 17 × 3.46 inches
- Weight
- 29.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power Expansion Unit Affiliate link
This diskless expansion unit adds storage capacity to your Synology RackStation. It features redundant power supplies to maintain service uptime during failures. The 2U chassis measures 17 inches wide and weighs 29.5 pounds. You can expand your online volume on the fly through Synology DiskStation Manager. It is designed for seamless integration with existing rackmount systems.
Pros
- Redundant power supplies for uptime
- Online volume expansion on the fly
- 2U rackmount form factor
- Managed via DSM
Cons
- Diskless design requires existing NAS
- Heavy at 29.5 pounds
- Large 2U footprint
Good fit if
- You need to expand existing RackStation storage
- You require redundant power for uptime
- You manage storage via DSM
Skip if
- You need a standalone NAS with drives
- You have limited rack space
- You prefer lightweight equipment
Verdict: Synology 2U Rack Expansion Unit is ideal for users expanding existing RackStation systems who need redundant power. It fits those prioritizing uptime and seamless DSM management over standalone operation.
Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation
Best for: Redundant power rackmount setups
- Drive Bays
- 8 bay
- Included Storage
- Diskless
- RAM Capacity
- 4GB RAM
- Dimensions
- 22.5 × 20.8 × 8.5 inches
View on Amazon: Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation Affiliate link
This 8-bay NAS offers 4GB of RAM and supports up to 2,315 MB/s read speeds. It features a compact depth of 298 mm and allows for network upgrades via PCIe cards. You can configure two units for high availability. It suits users needing redundant power and high performance in a rackmount form factor.
Pros
- 8-bay capacity for extensive storage
- 4GB DDR4 RAM included
- Up to 2,315 MB/s read speed
- Supports SHA cluster for uptime
Cons
- Diskless design requires separate drives
- 4GB RAM may limit heavy multitasking
- No mention of included network cards
Good fit if
- You need redundant power for critical data
- You want high read performance
- You require rackmount compatibility
Skip if
- You need pre-loaded drives
- You prefer desktop form factors
- You need more than 8 bays
Verdict: Synology RS1221RP+ 8-Bay RackStation fits users needing redundant power and high performance. It is ideal for rackmount setups requiring SHA cluster support.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Synology 2U Rackmount Redundant Power Expansion Unit | Synology 8-Bay Redundant Power RackStation |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Bays | not stated | 8 bay |
| Included Storage | Diskless | Diskless |
| Number of Bays | not stated | 8-Bay |
| RAM Capacity | not stated | 4GB RAM |
| Dimensions | 27.4 × 17 × 3.46 inches | 22.5 × 20.8 × 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 29.5 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 2U x 24" x 36" | RS1221RP+ |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | RX1217RP | RS1221RP+ |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Synology RX1217RP operate as a standalone NAS?
No, the RX1217RP is designed strictly as an expansion unit. It cannot function as a standalone NAS. You must connect it to an existing Synology RackStation system to add storage capacity. This chassis allows you to expand your current setup seamlessly while maintaining DSM management. It is ideal for users who need more space without replacing their primary server.
Does the Synology RS1221RP+ include redundant power supplies?
Yes, the RS1221RP+ features redundant power supplies to ensure high availability. This setup is crucial for rackmount environments where uptime is critical. The unit supports SHA cluster configurations, making it suitable for demanding workloads. You get reliable performance and power redundancy in a single 8-bay chassis, which is ideal for primary storage needs.
What are the physical dimensions of the Synology RX1217RP?
The RX1217RP measures 17 inches in width, 3.46 inches in height, and 27.4 inches in length. It weighs 29.5 pounds and comes in a black finish. The unit occupies 2U of rack space. These dimensions allow it to fit standard server racks while providing a compact footprint for expansion. You should verify your rack depth before installation.
How much RAM does the Synology RS1221RP+ have?
The RS1221RP+ comes equipped with 4GB of RAM. This memory capacity supports its 8-bay storage configuration and redundant power features. The RAM helps manage data processing for connected drives. You can use this unit for various applications requiring stable performance. The included memory is sufficient for typical enterprise tasks and cluster operations.
Is the Synology RS1221RP+ suitable for SHA cluster support?
Yes, the RS1221RP+ is designed to support SHA cluster configurations. This feature allows for advanced high-availability setups in rackmount environments. You can integrate this unit into a cluster to enhance system resilience. The 8-bay design provides ample storage space while maintaining the performance needed for clustered operations. It is a strong choice for critical infrastructure.
Do I need to buy hard drives for these units?
Yes, both units are diskless and require you to supply your own drives. The RX1217RP is an expansion chassis with no built-in bays, so you must install drives into it. The RS1221RP+ has 8 bays but also needs separate hard drives. You are responsible for selecting and installing compatible drives to activate storage capacity.
What is the primary difference between the RX1217RP and RS1221RP+?
The main difference is their function within your storage ecosystem. The RX1217RP is an expansion unit that adds capacity to an existing RackStation system. The RS1221RP+ is a standalone 8-bay server with redundant power. You choose the RX1217RP for scaling up and the RS1221RP+ for a complete primary storage solution with cluster support.