As data storage needs grow, NAS devices are becoming more and more crucial for home users and businesses alike. A well-structured NAS can provide easily accessible files, media streaming, and efficient data management while ensuring data integrity and security. For hardware enthusiasts and value-for-money seekers, building a DIY NAS
is the best way to approach than buying plug-n-play 2-bay NAS or 4-bay NAS from the likes of Synology or QNAP.
We have selected following best NAS Motherboards 2024 since it is most crucial for building DIY NAS and defines the performance, scalability, and efficiency of the system. This article will therefore elaborate on the key features to consider when shopping for a NAS motherboard. Specifically, this article will be focusing on low-power options that best fit the energy-conscious user.
Key Things to Look For in DIY NAS 2024 Motherboards:
Processor compatibility
First and foremost, you need to choose motherboards that are compatible with low-power NAS processors like Intel Atom or ARM-based CPUs, which are so optimized as to work efficiently without conflicting with performance.
Memory Capacity and Type
The motherboard should have a number of DIMM slots and also support ECC memory, especially in case you’re working in an environment where data correctness is of prime importance.
Storage Interface Options
Enough SATA ports to connect multiple hard disks or SSDs. Some boards might also support NVMe for proper solid state drive (SSD) speeds for your DIY NAS 2024.
Network Connectivity
Motherboards also boast of having multiple Ethernet ports, whether 1GbE or 10GbE– these offer the benefits of higher speeds and possible redundancy that ensures the seamless transfer of data between devices.
Expansion Capabilities
The motherboard may have PCIe slots so that you can upgrade after a number of time, such as getting another network card or RAID controller.
Power Efficiency Features
Opt for a design which optimizes power consumption in general to ensure that the board would prove suitable for 24/7 operation without the high electricity bill.
Form Factor
Choose between Mini-ITX or MicroATX size depending on the available space to fit your NAS enclosure.Focusing on these main features, you may pick a NAS motherboard that meets your current needs and provides the expansion and performance for the future. In the sections that follow, we will present some of the best low-power NAS motherboard in 2024.
This article will highlight the best motherboards for NAS builds, detailing their features, benefits, and potential applications. Here is a list of Low-Power Motherboards for NAS 2024.
Minisforum BD770i and BD790i | Price: $499
The Minisforum BD770i and BD790i are top-notch options for high-performance Mini-ITX motherboards designed to minimize power consumption. These motherboards are equipped with the advanced AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX and Ryzen 9 7945HX processors, offering exceptional processing power for various computing needs.
Key features:
- Processor: Ryzen 7 7745HX (8 cores, 16 threads) and Ryzen 9 7945HX (16 cores, 32 threads).
- Memory: Supports up to 64GB DDR5 (5200 MT/s).
- Storage has two M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 SSD slots.
- Connectivity: The device has a single 2.5G Ethernet connector, several USB 3.2 ports, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C video outputs.
Pros:
- Advanced CPU performance with low power consumption.
- Comprehensive storage and memory support.
- Compact Mini-ITX form size is appropriate for space-constrained configurations.
Cons:
- Limited to a single 2.5G Ethernet port may require a PCIe slot for network expansion.
- These motherboards are suited for consumers who require robust computing capabilities in a compact, energy-efficient chassis. However, due to the restricted Ethernet connectivity, extra network interface cards may be required for more extensive networking demands (NAS Compares).
Intel i3-N305 M-ITX Board | Price: $266
The Intel i3-N305 M-ITX motherboard is an excellent option for individuals seeking a power-efficient solution. It comes with an Intel N305 processor, renowned for its deficient thermal design power (TDP) of under 7 watts.
Key features:
- CPU: Intel Core i3-N305 (8 cores, 8 threads)
- Memory: A single DDR5 SODIMM slot
- Storage: two M.Two NVMe slots and six SATA connections.
- Connectivity includes four Intel i226-V 2.5G Ethernet NICs, HDMI 2.0.
Pros:
- Extremely low power consumption, perfect for always-on NAS configurations.
- Multiple Ethernet ports provide extensive networking capabilities.
- Cost-effective solution with high scalability.
Cons:
- Limited to a single memory slot, which may restrict memory capacity.
- This board is ideal for small to medium-sized NAS configurations where power efficiency is critical. Its many Ethernet connections make it an excellent alternative for consumers that require high networking performance without the need for extra expansion cards (NAS Compares).
ASRock B550M Steel Legend | Price: $140
The ASRock B550M Steel Legend is a reliable Micro ATX motherboard for those who want ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory support. When paired with an AMD Ryzen 7 5700X processor, it provides strong performance and data integrity capabilities critical for NAS systems.
Key features:
- Processor: Compatible with AMD Ryzen 5000 series CPUs
- Memory: Supports up to 64GB of DDR4 ECC memory
- Storage: Six SATA connectors and M.2 slots.
- Connectivity: PCIe slots for further expansion.
Pros:
- ECC Memory Support for Data Integrity
- Multiple storage possibilities with six SATA connections.
- The Micro ATX form factor strikes a mix of size and expandability.
Cons:
- The Ryzen 7 5700X lacks integrated graphics and requires a dedicated GPU.
- This motherboard is suitable for people who value data integrity and require a balanced combination of power and expandability in a relatively small form factor. Its support for ECC memory makes it ideal for corporate and professional NAS deployments.
Gigabyte C246-WU4 | Price: $369
The Gigabyte C246-WU4 is an ATX motherboard built for high storage capacity and reliable performance, making it ideal for more extensive NAS systems.
Key features:
- Processor: Supports Intel Xeon E and 8th/9th generation Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors.
- Memory: supports both ECC and non-ECC DDR4 memory.
- Storage: ten SATA ports and two M.2 slots.
- Connectivity: Multiple PCIe slots, crossfire capability for multiple GPUs.
Pros:
- Extensive storage choices, with 10 SATA connections.
- Supports ECC memory to improve data reliability.
- Several PCIe slots for expansion and Crossfire support
Cons:
- More significant ATX size factor, unsuitable for small constructions.
- This motherboard is more expensive due to its comprehensive functionality and support for enterprise-grade components. It is best suited for consumers who require high storage space and performance, such as large-scale NAS systems for enterprises. Its ECC memory compatibility and several extension choices make it a long-term investment for essential data storage requirements.
ASUS PRIME A320MK | Price $59.99
The ASUS PRIME A320MK is ideal for builders on a tight budget because it provides vital functionality without sacrificing performance. This Micro ATX motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and offers appropriate storage and networking choices for small to medium NAS configurations.
Key features:
- Processor: supports AMD Ryzen, Athlon, and A-series APUs.
- Memory: DDR4 support.
- Storage: M.2 slot with numerous SATA connections.
- Connectivity includes USB 3.1, HDMI, and VGA connections.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing point.
- Enough networking and storage options are available for basic NAS needs.
- Compact Micro ATX form factor.
- Cost-effective solution with high scalability.
Cons:
- Advanced features are limited in comparison to higher-end versions.
- Lower the maximum memory capacity.
- This motherboard suits home users or small enterprises wishing to install a low-cost NAS without advanced capabilities. Its reasonable price and adequate performance make it an attractive option for entry-level NAS systems (PCedged).
6-Bay Topton NAS Motherboard i3-N305
The Topton 6-Bay i3-N305 NAS motherboard is designed specifically for power-hungry users seeking an efficient solution for their network storage needs. It should fit home or small business configurations since it supports Intel’s i3-N305 processor, offering multiple connectivity options for effective management of data.
Key Features:
- Processor: Supports Intel i3-N305, providing sufficient performance for various NAS applications.
- Memory: Compatible with DDR5 memory, allowing for faster data processing and improved multitasking capabilities.
- Storage: Features 6 SATA 3.0 ports and 2 M.2 NVMe slots, enabling extensive storage options for large datasets.
- Networking: Includes dual Intel i226-V 2.5G network cards, ensuring high-speed connectivity and reliable data transfer.
Pros:
- The Topton NAS motherboard has sufficient storage and connectivity options for mid-range to large NAS configurations.
- The Topton 6-Bay i3-N305 NAS motherboard supports the latest DDR5 memory for faster performance.
- Compact Mini ITX form factor to fit into the smallest enclosures with flexibility.
- Two 2.5G Ethernet ports that can greatly enhance network speed and redundancy.
Cons:
- Needs a good radiator; not included in the package, which may incur additional costs.
- The board needs a special power supply setup (24-pin + 4-pin ATX) for a power up. This can make it somewhat of a pain for unwary users to set up.
It would be an excellent motherboard for someone who wants to build a capable NAS system, balancing performance and efficiency. Its blend of multiple storage interfaces and high-speed networking is all the more attractive to users in need of robust data-handling capabilities without compromising on energy consumption.
Other than these recommended motherboards, you can also try a semi-DIY approach with this N100 NAS CPU Motherboard Combo. Some users have built solid TrueNAS Builds in 2024 with this combo which has been discussed on Reddit and other communities.
Conclusion
Choosing the best NAS motherboards in 2024 entails balancing power efficiency, performance, and expandability. The Minisforum BD770i and BD790i provide robust yet small solutions, while the Intel i3-N305 M-ITX board excels at energy efficiency. The ASRock B550M Steel Legend supports ECC memory for data integrity, while the Gigabyte C246-WU4 provides ample storage and speed for more extensive configurations. Finally, the ASUS PRIME A320MK is an affordable alternative for basic NAS needs.
Each of these motherboards offers various characteristics, catering to various needs and budgets. You may select the ideal motherboard for your NAS system by considering power consumption, storage capacity, memory support, and overall performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a NAS, and why does low power consumption matter?
A network-attached storage (NAS) system is a specialized file storage device that offers local area network (LAN) customers centralized, consolidated disk storage via a conventional Ethernet connection. Low power usage is critical since NAS systems frequently operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and effective energy use can significantly reduce operational expenses and environmental impact.
2. What is ECC memory, and why is it necessary for NAS?
ECC memory is a type of RAM that detects and corrects internal data corruption. This capability is critical for NAS systems to maintain data integrity and dependability, especially when data corruption could result in major data loss or system failure.
3. Can I use a standard motherboard for NAS, or do I require a NAS-specific motherboard?
While a conventional motherboard can be used for NAS, specialist NAS motherboards, such as those with ECC memory support, several SATA ports, and low power consumption, are better suited to the purpose. These characteristics improve data integrity, expandability, and power efficiency, making your NAS system more reliable and cost-effective in the long run.
4. Should I get NAS Motherboards with more than one ethernet port?
Multiple Ethernet ports are helpful in NAS systems that demand high network performance, redundancy, or load balancing. While not required for all configurations, having several Ethernet ports can improve network performance and stability.
