10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026

Finding the right network attached storage device is crucial for modern data management. A 4 Bay NAS offers flexible storage expansion and robust redundancy for homes and small businesses seeking reliable file access.

We evaluated ten leading models based on processor power, network speed, software ecosystem, and overall value. Our analysis highlights which units deliver the best balance of performance and ease of use for diverse workflows.

Each pick below showcases key strengths and ideal user scenarios. Note that availability and pricing fluctuate regularly, so verify current details before purchasing to ensure you get the best deal available today.

Top 3 Picks for Best 4 Bay NAS

Top 10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026 Compared

This table provides a side-by-side look at the technical specifications and core capabilities of each selected model. Use it to quickly identify which device matches your specific performance and budget requirements.

1. Synology DS425+ – Best Overall 4 Bay NAS

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS425+

Team productivity optimized

Granular access controls

Multi-layered protection

Enterprise support available

The Synology DS425+ stands out as a top contender for users prioritizing software reliability and team collaboration. With a 4.6 rating, it delivers consistent performance for media streaming and file sharing across networks.

Pros

• Excellent software ecosystem
• High transfer speeds
• Strong data protection
• Active community support
• Reliable hardware

Cons

• Higher price point
• No built-in HDMI

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Its ability to support concurrent access from ten users with speeds reaching 278 MB/s makes it ideal for small offices. The centralized repository feature ensures documents and media assets are organized with granular access controls.

Data protection is robust thanks to snapshot technology that prevents loss from accidental deletion or ransomware. While the price is higher than entry-level units, the included three-year warranty and dedicated account management justify the investment.

Buy this unit if you need a stable private cloud with enterprise-grade security and minimal maintenance. It remains the best choice for businesses requiring dependable access control and rapid file retrieval.

Superior File Collaboration

Team productivity features allow seamless sharing and access management within office environments.

Advanced Data Safety

Multi-layered protection combining RAID and snapshots ensures critical files remain safe from various threats.

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2. UGREEN DXP4800 Pro – Best Premium 4 Bay NAS

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN DXP4800 Pro

Intel Core i3 processor

High-speed DDR5 RAM

Dual network ports

On-device AI processing

The UGREEN DXP4800 Pro targets power users needing significant compute power within a storage enclosure. Boasting a 4.4 rating, it excels at running virtual machines and heavy Docker workloads without performance bottlenecks.

Pros

• Powerful Core i3 CPU
• 10GbE network option
• Flexible virtualization support
• Smart AI photo album
• Enterprise data security

Cons

• Premium pricing tier
• Complex setup for novices

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Its Intel Core i3-1315U processor paired with 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports enables blazing-fast transfers ideal for video editors. Local AI processing for photos ensures privacy while organizing massive libraries efficiently.

While expensive, the flexibility to run diverse development environments and smart home hubs makes it versatile. The inclusion of granular permissions and certified privacy standards adds value for IT professionals managing sensitive data.

Choose this model if you demand workstation-level performance from your NAS. It is the ultimate solution for developers and teams requiring virtualization and maximum network throughput.

Workstation-Level Performance

Powerful CPU and DDR5 RAM ensure smooth multitasking for virtualization and heavy applications.

Privacy-First AI

On-device processing organizes photos without sending data to external servers.

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3. Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 – Best Budget 4 Bay NAS

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2

Realtek Quad-Core CPU

2.5GbE network port

Flexible RAID configurations

Btrfs snapshot support

The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 offers exceptional value for entry-level users seeking reliable home storage. With a 4.0 rating, it balances cost-effective design with essential high-speed networking features.

Pros

• Affordable pricing
• 2.5GbE upgrade
• WORM data protection
• Good media support
• Energy efficient

Cons

• Limited RAM
• Basic OS features

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Upgraded 2.5GbE ports significantly improve file transfer speeds compared to standard gigabit systems. Support for Btrfs snapshots provides enterprise-grade protection against accidental deletion at an accessible price.

While the RAM is modest, the quad-core processor handles daily backups and media streaming effectively. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing storage safety without a high monthly subscription cost.

Select this unit if you need a budget-friendly private cloud with robust hardware redundancy. It delivers great value for small offices and families starting their journey into self-hosted storage.

Affordable High Speed

2.5GbE Ethernet provides faster transfers without requiring expensive enterprise gear.

Immutable Data Safety

WORM technology ensures critical files remain untouched during ransomware attacks.

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4. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT – High Performance Creator NAS

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT

AMD Ryzen R2514

Dual 10GbE networking

Surveillance Center built-in

SD card slot

The UGREEN DXP4800 GT is a powerhouse designed for creators needing fast direct storage access. Its 4.6 rating reflects robust multitasking capabilities enabled by its AMD processor and dual 10GbE ports.

Pros

• Dual 10GbE ports
• Direct camera connections
• 8GB expandable RAM
• Rich app ecosystem
• HDMI 4K output

Cons

• ECC RAM required upgrade
• Manual Plex setup

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Features like the built-in SD card slot and USB 10Gbps allow quick media transfers without a computer. Surveillance Center integration supports local IP camera recording without external cloud subscriptions.

The UGOS Pro operating system simplifies management with guided setup and Docker support. While ECC RAM upgrades are separate purchases, the hardware foundation is strong for virtualization tasks.

Buy this for creative workflows demanding high bandwidth and quick local file handling. It is ideal for teams needing a centralized hub for both storage and security management.

Creator Workflow Speed

Dual 10GbE networking supports smooth 4K and 8K editing from the NAS.

Unified Surveillance

Built-in software manages IP cameras directly on the storage device.

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5. TERRAMASTER F4-425 – Best Value Home NAS

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

TERRAMASTER F4-425

Intel x86 Quad-Core

4GB RAM

Ultra-quiet operation

Push-Lock drive trays

The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a quiet and efficient solution for home media centers. Rated 4.0, it prioritizes silent operation and ease of use for typical home multitasking needs.

Pros

• Quiet 21dB operation
• Hardware 4K transcoding
• Flexible TRAID arrays
• Tool-free drive install
• Cloud sync support

Cons

• Basic OS interface
• Limited user accounts

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Supporting hardware-level 4K decoding ensures smooth playback on TV devices without taxing the network. The tool-free Push-Lock design allows quick drive installation in seconds.

TRAID arrays provide redundancy while maximizing usable storage space compared to traditional RAID. While the OS is simpler than Synology, it covers essential backups and photo management well.

Choose this if you need a discreet, affordable NAS for a bedroom or living room. It serves well for users focusing on media streaming and basic photo backups.

Whisper Quiet Design

21dB operation ensures the device remains unnoticeable in quiet environments.

Smart Media Support

Compatible with Plex and Emby for direct hardware video decoding.

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6. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus – Great Family Private Cloud

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN DXP4800 Plus

High-performance processor

10GbE network port

AI-powered photo album

Simple setup app

The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus balances performance and usability for small families and teams. With a 4.6 rating, it provides centralized storage that simplifies data sharing across devices.

Pros

• Fast transfer speeds
• AI photo organization
• Flexible RAID options
• Broad OS compatibility
• 2-year warranty

Cons

• No Wi-Fi support
• Docker setup required

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Its AI photo album automatically organizes memories by faces and locations, saving time manually sorting files. The 10GbE network port ensures rapid backup capabilities for large media collections.

While lacking Wi-Fi, the wired connection offers stability for consistent performance. The app ecosystem supports easy file sharing across various operating systems seamlessly.

Pick this unit for secure personal data ownership without relying on cloud fees. It is ideal for families wanting to manage photos and documents safely at home.

Smart Photo Management

AI recognition groups photos by faces, scenes, and objects automatically.

Private Ownership

100% data ownership ensures privacy with advanced encryption.

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7. Synology DS925+ – Best for Scalability

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS925+

522/565 MB/s throughput

Dual 2.5GbE ports

Virtualization support

Surveillance solutions

The Synology DS925+ provides a robust platform for users planning future expansion. Rated 4.2, it delivers high sequential read/write speeds suitable for demanding file transfers.

Pros

• Fast throughput speeds
• Expandable network ports
• Stable DSM software
• Virtualization features
• Surveillance Station

Cons

• Expensive hardware
• Memory limitations

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Dual 2.5GbE ports allow network redundancy and faster throughput when aggregated. The built-in virtualization support enables running lightweight services directly on the NAS.

Synology's mature software ecosystem ensures long-term reliability and security updates. While costs are higher, the scalability and stability make it a strong long-term investment.

Select this for growing teams needing reliable infrastructure with room to upgrade. It remains a solid choice for professional environments prioritizing uptime.

Network Redundancy

Dual ports provide backup connections to maintain uptime during failures.

Virtualization Ready

Supports lightweight virtual machines for additional service hosting.

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8. Yxk Zero1 Pro – Best for DIY Enthusiasts

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Yxk Zero1 Pro

Intel N100 x86

8GB DDR4 RAM

Dual 2.5GbE ports

Aluminum housing

The Yxk Zero1 Pro is an excellent canvas for those who enjoy customizing their storage environment. Rated 4.4, it supports third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid out of the box.

Pros

• Intel N100 performance
• Docker third-party OS support
• HDMI 4K output
• Efficient cooling
• Good value

Cons

• Basic stock OS
• Requires manual setup

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Its Intel N100 processor handles media playback and downloads efficiently. The aluminum housing and dual-fan cooling system ensure the device stays cool during long backup sessions.

HDMI output allows direct connection to TVs for media playback without external PCs. Flexibility for Docker apps makes it suitable for home automation projects.

Choose this if you prefer control over your operating system and services. It offers great hardware value for technical users who want to build a custom server.

Custom OS Flexibility

Support for third-party OS allows tailored setups for specific needs.

Direct Media Output

HDMI port enables direct TV connection for home theater setups.

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9. UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus – Best for Beginners

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus

Entry-level NAS

8GB LPDDR4X RAM

Smart photo backup

2.5GbE port

The UGREEN DH4300 Plus simplifies home storage for beginners transitioning from cloud services. Rated 4.2, it focuses on user-friendly features like NFC setup and automatic backups.

Pros

• Simple setup app
• NFC connectivity
• Efficient data savings
• Strong encryption
• Remote access

Cons

• No virtual machines
• Wired connection only

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AI photo albums help organize memories automatically. Its efficient design saves significant money compared to long-term cloud subscription costs.

Advanced encryption ensures data security without complex configurations. While virtual machines are not supported, it handles media and file sharing well.

Buy this if you want a private cloud that is easy to manage. It is perfect for families looking to secure family photos and documents.

Beginner Friendly

NFC and simple app setup remove technical barriers for new users.

Long Term Savings

One-time purchase saves money compared to recurring cloud fees.

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10. Synology DS423 – Best for Surveillance

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS423

Secure private cloud

Up to 30 cameras

Ransomware-resistant backup

2-year warranty

The Synology DS423 offers excellent value for home security and file management. With a 4.4 rating, it balances surveillance capabilities with efficient data protection.

Pros

• Surveillance station
• Immutable snapshots
• Secure file sharing
• Strong community support
• Enterprise grade security

Cons

• Extra camera licenses
• Lower throughput than DS925+

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Surveillance Station supports up to thirty IP cameras with easy archiving tools. Ransomware-resistant backups protect data integrity against modern cyber threats.

While license costs are extra, the local control ensures privacy and reliability. It serves well for families needing both storage and security solutions.

Select this unit to secure your home with a unified private cloud system. It is ideal for users prioritizing safety and controlled access.

Integrated Security

Surveillance Station turns the NAS into a dedicated security recorder.

Ransomware Defense

Immutable snapshots ensure backup files cannot be altered by malware.

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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 4 Bay NAS

Selecting the right network attached storage requires understanding your performance needs and software requirements. This guide highlights key factors to consider before purchasing a device.

Processor Performance

The central processing unit determines how well a NAS handles multitasking, video transcoding, and virtual machine operations. High-end models with quad-core or Intel Core processors deliver faster speeds for demanding workloads.

Choose a CPU that matches your usage. For basic file storage, entry-level chips are sufficient, but content creators should opt for powerful processors.

Memory Capacity

RAM affects system responsiveness and the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously. Most devices ship with 4GB to 8GB, though some support expansion up to 96GB.

Higher memory enables smoother multitasking. If you plan to run virtual machines or complex Docker containers, ensure the system supports RAM upgrades.

Network Connectivity

Network ports dictate transfer speeds across your local area network. While Gigabit Ethernet is standard, 2.5GbE and 10GbE ports are becoming common for faster data movement.

Prioritize models with at least one 2.5GbE port if you have large media files. Multiple ports allow link aggregation for increased bandwidth and redundancy.

Operating System

The built-in software determines ease of use and available features. Synology offers the most polished experience, while others provide flexible open systems or specialized tools.

Look for an interface that supports your devices. Check for mobile app quality and remote access capabilities before buying.

Storage Expansion

Consider future needs for adding drives or M.2 SSD slots for caching. Some units support NVMe drives for significantly higher read/write speeds.

Ensure the chassis fits your planned drive capacity. Check compatibility lists to avoid issues with specific hard drive brands.

Security Features

Protecting data involves more than hardware. Features like snapshots, encryption, and two-factor authentication help prevent accidental deletion and cyberattacks.

Select units that support immutable backups if ransomware is a concern. Encryption ensures privacy even if drives are stolen.

Price vs Value

Cost varies significantly between entry-level budget units and premium workstation models. Balance initial price against long-term reliability and software costs.

Invest in a slightly more expensive model if it offers better warranty coverage and software updates that keep the system secure.

Media Server Capability

If streaming video is a priority, look for hardware transcoding support. Devices with HDMI outputs or specific codecs handle 4K playback efficiently.

Ensure compatibility with apps like Plex or Emby if you use them. Dedicated media features save system resources and improve playback smoothness.

How to Use and Care for Your 4 Bay NAS

Start by installing your hard drives and connecting the NAS to your router via Ethernet. Download the manufacturer's mobile app or desktop client to initialize the system and update firmware.

Create user accounts with strong passwords and configure RAID settings based on your priority for speed or data safety. Regularly schedule automatic backups to external drives or cloud services.

Keep the unit in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Check logs periodically for drive errors and replace any failing disks promptly to maintain array integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 4 Bay NAS

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