SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
5.0Editor score
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
12Gb/s SAS transfer rate
Direct attach up to 8 drives
In this guide
Expanding your network attached storage system requires a reliable host bus adapter to manage multiple drives efficiently. A quality Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion ensures your data flows smoothly without bottlenecks limiting your performance potential.
We evaluated ten top rated controllers based on compatibility features and value for home labs and enterprise setups. Each product offers unique strengths whether you need broad port counts or specific firmware support for ZFS environments.
Every pick includes detailed specifications to help you match the card to your existing motherboard and drive inventory. Prices fluctuate regularly so verify current listings before finalizing your purchase to ensure you get the best deal available.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
4.5Editor score
LSI 9300-8i compatibility
Includes SATA breakout cables
Ideal for ZFS TrueNAS
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
4.0Editor score
16 ports for large arrays
12Gb/s SAS speed
High density storage support
Top 10 Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion models to help you quickly identify the right fit for your needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.5Editor score
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
5.0Editor score
Best Premium
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.2Editor score
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-16i
12Gb/s SAS
16 internal ports
4.0Editor score
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
PCIe 2.0 x8
LSI 9211-8i
6Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.6Editor score
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
Highpoint controller
6Gb/s SAS
16 internal ports
3.9Editor score
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.4Editor score
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.6Editor score
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.4Editor score
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode, 8-Port, SAS3008 PCIe 3.0 x8, 2X SFF-8643 Breakout Cables, HBA Controller for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID NAS
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
4.5Editor score
1. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables – Best Overall Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion offers a perfect balance of performance and ease of use for home lab enthusiasts. With a solid 4.5 star rating it stands out as a top choice for users needing reliable storage connectivity.
Pros
- Excellent compatibility with ZFS
- Includes necessary SATA cables
- Robust build quality
- Supports 12Gb/s transfer
- Easy to install
Cons
- SATA cables not for SAS drives
- No expansion card included
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The card features the proven LSI 9300-8i chipset which ensures broad compatibility with various operating systems and virtualization platforms. Its IT Mode firmware allows direct disk passthrough making it ideal for ZFS and TrueNAS setups.
While the included cables are optimized for SATA drives you may need to purchase SAS specific cables separately for other drive types. This small limitation is acceptable given the overall value and performance of the controller.
Buyers seeking a straightforward solution for expanding their NAS storage will find this card highly satisfactory. It delivers consistent throughput and stability essential for maintaining data integrity across multiple drives.
Seamless ZFS Integration
The IT Mode firmware ensures that ZFS can directly manage disks without interference from hardware RAID logic.
High Speed Data Transfer
With 12Gb/s SAS capability you get fast data movement that keeps up with modern high capacity hard drives.
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2. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller – Best Budget Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
For budget conscious builders this Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion delivers exceptional value without sacrificing critical performance features. It has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from users who appreciate its reliability and straightforward functionality.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- Compatible with D3307
- 12Gb/s SAS support
- Simple installation
Cons
- No cables included
- Basic packaging
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The card is compatible with both the LSI 9300-8i and D3307 controllers providing flexibility for different system configurations. Its IT Mode firmware ensures that it works seamlessly with software defined storage solutions like unRAID and Proxmox.
Although it does not include breakout cables the low cost makes it easy to budget for additional accessories as needed. This trade-off is minor considering the card robust performance and broad community support.
If you need a cost effective way to add more drives to your NAS this model is an excellent choice. It provides the necessary connectivity to expand your storage capacity efficiently and reliably.
Cost Effective Expansion
Pricing this card significantly lower than competitors allows you to allocate more budget to additional storage drives.
Broad Compatibility
Support for multiple controller models ensures it fits into a wider range of existing server and NAS setups.
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3. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables – Reliable Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion bridges the gap between older and newer controller generations making it versatile for various builds. With a 4.2 rating it offers dependable performance for users upgrading from legacy systems.
Pros
- Dual chipset support
- Includes SATA cables
- Good performance
- Easy setup
- Reasonable price
Cons
- SATA cables limit SAS use
- Average rating
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The card supports both the LSI 9211-8i and 9300-8i chipsets which enhances its utility across different motherboard and chassis configurations. Included SATA cables simplify the initial setup process reducing the need for immediate additional purchases.
Users aiming to connect SAS drives will need to acquire specific breakout cables since the included ones are SATA only. This is a standard limitation for many budget HBA cards but should be considered during planning.
This model is well suited for those who need flexibility in controller compatibility without breaking the bank. It provides a solid foundation for expanding your storage array with minimal friction.
Versatile Compatibility
Supporting multiple controller generations ensures the card remains useful even as hardware standards evolve over time.
Included Cables
The inclusion of SATA breakout cables reduces initial costs and speeds up the deployment of SATA based storage.
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4. LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID – High Capacity Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-16i
12Gb/s SAS
16 internal ports
For users needing maximum drive density this Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion offers sixteen ports to accommodate large storage arrays. It is a premium solution for those building extensive media servers or enterprise storage systems.
Pros
- 16 drive capacity
- High speed SAS
- IT Mode ready
- Durable design
- Supports ZFS
Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires PCIe 3.0 slot
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The 16i model supports 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensuring that data throughput remains high even when managing multiple simultaneous disk operations. This makes it ideal for high performance workloads where latency and bandwidth are critical factors.
While the price is higher than 8 port models the cost per port is often lower making it efficient for large scale builds. The IT Mode firmware ensures full compatibility with software RAID solutions like ZFS.
This card is best suited for serious enthusiasts or professionals who need to expand storage significantly without compromising on speed. It provides the infrastructure necessary to handle massive data demands efficiently.
Maximum Drive Density
Sixteen ports allow you to connect twice as many drives as standard models saving on additional controller costs.
Enterprise Grade Performance
Designed for heavy workloads this card maintains stability under load ensuring your data remains accessible at all times.
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5. Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA – Legacy Support Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
PCIe 2.0 x8
LSI 9211-8i
6Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion is perfect for those using older hardware or needing proven reliability over cutting edge speeds. The 4.6 rating reflects its consistent performance and ease of integration into existing NAS builds.
Pros
- Pre-flashed IT Mode
- Strong 4.6 rating
- Reliable chipset
- Good for older systems
- Ventilated bracket
Cons
- Limited to 6Gb/s
- Older PCIe 2.0
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The card comes pre-flashed with IT Mode firmware saving you the hassle of manually reprogramming the BIOS. This is particularly valuable for users who want a plug-and-play experience without technical complications.
While it supports 6Gb/s SAS speeds which are slower than newer 12Gb/s models it remains sufficient for most mechanical hard drives. The PCIe 2.0 interface may limit performance on very new motherboards but works well with older systems.
Buyers looking for a tried and true solution for their home lab will appreciate this card stability and straightforward setup. It is a great choice for expanding storage on older servers where performance is less critical than reliability.
Pre-Configured Firmware
Arriving with IT Mode already flashed eliminates the risk of user error during the firmware flashing process.
Proven Reliability
The 9211-8i chipset has a long history of stability making it a trusted choice for many NAS administrators.
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6. Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller – Flexible RAID Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
Highpoint controller
6Gb/s SAS
16 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion stands out for its flexible RAID capabilities offering more than just simple passthrough. It is designed for users who want hardware RAID options alongside traditional software defined storage configurations.
Pros
- Multiple RAID support
- 16 ports
- Universal management
- PCIe 3.0 support
- Multi OS support
Cons
- Lower user rating
- Complex for some users
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With support for RAID 0 1 5 and 6 configurations this card allows for redundant storage setups without relying solely on software. The management suite works across Windows Linux and macOS making it versatile for mixed environments.
The rating of 3.9 suggests some users find the setup or performance less intuitive than pure HBA cards. However for those needing hardware RAID features it provides a unique value proposition in the market.
If you require specific RAID levels and multi OS support this controller offers the functionality you need. It is a solid option for users who prioritize hardware redundancy over pure HBA simplicity.
Hardware RAID Options
Offers traditional RAID levels that can protect data even if the NAS software is unavailable or corrupted.
Cross Platform Support
Universal management software ensures you can manage storage arrays regardless of your operating system preference.
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7. HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card – Simple Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion provides a straightforward solution for adding storage capacity to your home lab. With a 4.4 rating it is recognized for its reliability and ease of integration into existing systems.
Pros
- Easy setup
- Good performance
- Affordable
- Reliable chipset
- Clear labeling
Cons
- No cables included
- Basic instructions
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The card is fully compatible with the LSI 9300-8i and D3307 controllers ensuring it works with a wide range of storage configurations. Its IT Mode firmware allows for direct drive access which is ideal for ZFS users.
While it does not include breakout cables the setup is generally simple for users familiar with PCIe hardware. The lack of detailed instructions may require some online research but the hardware itself is straightforward.
For users needing a simple and effective way to expand their NAS storage this card is a strong candidate. It offers consistent performance without unnecessary complexity.
Straightforward Design
The card focuses on essential functionality without adding unnecessary features that might confuse users.
Compatible Performance
Using known LSI chips ensures the card behaves predictably across different operating systems and virtualization environments.
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8. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables – Cable Included Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion is designed for users who specifically need to connect SAS drives right out of the box. The inclusion of SAS cables makes it a convenient option for those with mixed drive inventories.
Pros
- Includes SAS cables
- High rating
- Fast transfer
- Easy setup
- Versatile
Cons
- SAS cables limit SATA use
- Extra cost for SATA cables
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With a 4.6 rating it reflects strong user satisfaction regarding its build quality and performance. The card supports 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensuring fast data throughput for demanding storage tasks.
Users needing to connect SATA drives may find the included cables insufficient as they are specifically for SAS connections. This means additional purchases may be necessary if your setup includes standard SATA drives.
For those building a SAS heavy storage array this card offers the convenience of immediate connectivity. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed and compatibility with enterprise grade drives.
Ready for SAS
The included SAS cables allow you to start building your array immediately without waiting for extra accessories.
High Performance
12Gb/s SAS ensures that your drives operate at their maximum potential without bottlenecks limiting throughput.
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9. LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID – Trusted Flashed Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion comes from a trusted source known for reliable pre-flashed firmware. It ensures you have a working card immediately without the need for manual flashing which can be risky.
Pros
- Pre-flashed firmware
- High performance
- Reliable brand
- Wide support
- Good value
Cons
- No cables included
- Basic packaging
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The card is designed for ZFS FreeNAS and unRAID environments making it a perfect fit for home labs and small businesses. Its 12Gb/s SAS speed ensures fast performance across all connected drives.
While it does not include breakout cables the card itself is ready for use with the right adapters. Users should be prepared to purchase SATA or SAS cables depending on their drive types.
If you prefer a solution that reduces technical setup time this card is an excellent choice. It provides the reliability you need for managing a growing storage array with confidence.
Flashed Ready
Pre-flashed firmware saves you the trouble of finding correct files and tools to update the BIOS yourself.
Optimized for ZFS
The IT Mode firmware ensures that ZFS sees and manages drives directly for optimal performance and control.
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10. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode, 8-Port, SAS3008 PCIe 3.0 x8, 2X SFF-8643 Breakout Cables, HBA Controller for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID NAS – Complete Kit Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode, 8-Port, SAS3008 PCIe 3.0 x8, 2X SFF-8643 Breakout Cables, HBA Controller for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID NAS
PCIe 3.0 x8
LSI 9300-8i
12Gb/s SAS
8 internal ports
This Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion comes as a complete kit with breakout cables making it a convenient choice for new builders. The 4.5 rating indicates strong user satisfaction with both performance and included accessories.
Pros
- Includes breakout cables
- High rating
- Easy installation
- Broad support
- Reliable
Cons
- Cables are SATA only
- Slightly higher price
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It supports the LSI 9300-8i chipset and offers 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensuring your storage system remains fast and responsive. The card is compatible with ZFS TrueNAS and unRAID providing flexibility for your OS choice.
While the included cables are for SATA drives the convenience of having them on hand cannot be understated. If you need to connect SAS drives you will need to source specific cables separately.
This model is ideal for those who want a turnkey solution for expanding their storage without hunting for extra parts. It offers a balanced mix of performance ease of use and value.
All In One Package
Having breakout cables included removes one variable from your shopping list and speeds up your setup time.
Reliable Performance
The proven LSI architecture ensures that you get stable operation over long periods of continuous use.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Choosing the right Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion involves understanding your storage needs compatibility requirements and performance goals.
Controller Chipset
The chipset determines the cards performance and compatibility. LSI Broadcom chips like 9300-8i are widely supported and reliable for NAS use.
Look for established chipsets with strong community support to ensure ease of troubleshooting.
Port Count
Decide how many drives you need to connect immediately. Eight port cards suit small builds while 16 port models accommodate larger arrays.
Choose a port count that matches your current plan plus room for future expansion.
IT vs RAID Mode
For NAS builds IT Mode allows direct disk access essential for ZFS and other software RAID solutions. RAID Mode offers hardware redundancy but may limit OS flexibility.
Ensure the card is flashed or configured for IT Mode if using software defined storage.
Interface Compatibility
Check your motherboard supports the required PCIe version. Most modern boards support PCIe 3.0 which matches current HBA cards.
Verify your slot availability and physical size to avoid installation issues.
Cable Included
Some cards include breakout cables for SATA or SAS drives which can save costs and simplify setup. Verify cable types match your drive inventory.
If cables are not included budget for compatible breakout cables before purchasing.
Speed Requirements
Modern SAS drives benefit from 12Gb/s transfer rates. Older cards offering 6Gb/s may bottleneck performance with high speed drives.
Prioritize 12Gb/s cards if you plan to use enterprise class SAS HDDs or NVMe via adaptors.
Operating System Support
Ensure the card has drivers or firmware support for your chosen NAS OS. Linux based systems like TrueNAS have broad support for LSI chips.
Check community forums for specific OS compatibility notes before buying.
Brand Reputation
Purchase from reputable sellers offering warranty and support. Refurbished cards from trusted vendors can offer good value but verify return policies.
Avoid unknown brands with no documentation or support resources.
How to Use and Care for Your Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Install the HBA card into an available PCIe slot on your motherboard ensuring it is securely seated and connected to power if required. Boot your system and verify the OS detects the card.
If needed flash the firmware to IT Mode using manufacturer tools or pre-flashed units. Configure your BIOS to enable PCIe slots and set storage to AHCI or compatible modes.
Connect your drives using the appropriate breakout cables. For SATA drives use SATA breakout cables and for SAS drives use SAS cables. Label cables to simplify future maintenance and troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion?
An Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion is a controller that allows your NAS to connect to more hard drives. It acts as an interface between your motherboard and storage devices enabling large scale storage arrays.
Do I need IT Mode for ZFS?
Yes ZFS requires direct access to disks which IT Mode provides. RAID Mode can hide drives from ZFS making it incompatible with software RAID setups.
Can I mix SAS and SATA drives?
Yes HBA cards support both SAS and SATA drives but you need appropriate breakout cables for each type. Ensure cables match drive interfaces to prevent connectivity issues.
What PCIe slot do I need?
Most HBA cards require a PCIe x8 slot but they often fit in x4 or x16 slots physically. Ensure your motherboard has a free slot that supports PCIe 3.0 for best performance.
Is it better to use RAID or IT mode?
For NAS and ZFS IT mode is better because it lets software manage redundancy. RAID mode is useful if you want hardware redundancy without relying on OS features.
How many drives can I connect?
An 8 port card connects up to 8 drives directly but you can use expanders to connect more. A 16 port card allows up to 16 drives directly without expanders.
Do HBA cards need extra power?
Most HBA cards draw power from the PCIe slot and do not need extra power connectors. Always check specific model requirements in the manual before installation.
Are refurbished HBA cards safe?
Refurbished cards from trusted sellers can be safe and cost effective. Verify warranty and return policies to ensure you can return defective units.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
We reviewed ten top rated Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion options to help you find the right fit. Our top picks include budget friendly cards and high capacity models for different needs.
Prioritize IT Mode compatibility and sufficient port counts for your storage plans. Consider cable types included to avoid extra costs during setup.
Prices change frequently so check current listings before purchasing. Ensure you verify warranty and support options to protect your investment.