Top 2-Bay NAS For 2024
You can choose the ideal NAS device to meet your particular needs since we chose these products based on their distinct strengths and capabilities. Our guide will assist you in making an informed choice whether you’re a media specialist, a small company owner, or someone needing dependable data storage. We will examine the main characteristics, advantages, and reasons why these NAS devices stand out on the market in 2024 to deepen your comprehension of them. Additionally, we’ll offer crucial insights into aspects like performance, storage capacity, networking choices, and more that you should take into account when choosing the best 2-bay NAS.
At the heart of this guide lies the belief that a well-informed choice can transform your digital experience. As we navigate through these NAS solutions, you’ll discover the future of data management and secure the best 2-bay NAS device to meet your unique needs. Make sure you’re installing powerful NAS Drives compared to regular HDDs, to ensure high reliability of your data. So, let’s begin the journey to efficient data management and storage in the digital age.
Synology DS224+ – A Budget-Friendly Gem
Synology DiskStation DS224+ is a gem in a budget NAS solution. It is very valuable and sophisticated in comparison with its competitors. Needless to say, I appreciate just performance and cost-effectiveness. In my judgment, this NAS is appreciated by a great number of users–be it home or small business users.
However, under the hood, the DS224+ relies on the power of an Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core NAS processor. At its base clock speed, it’ll output at 2.0 GHz or burst to 2.7 GHz in graphics. This allows it to maintain a smooth workflow, whether I am streaming media, backing files, or running demanding applications. There’s also ample DDR4 memory at 2GB, which can be expanded up to 6GB for future needs.
One of the most compelling features of the DS224+ is its advanced DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system. DSM is known for its user-friendly interface and feature-rich functionality, making it easy to manage data, set up backups with OneDrive or Dropbox, and even run virtual machines. The built-in security features give me peace of mind, knowing that my data is protected from unauthorized access.
In addition, the DS224+ comes with various RAID configurations, which include RAID 0 and RAID 1, enhancing the redundancy and performance of data. I can expand storage anytime because the device has two drive bays which can take both 3.5″ NAS Drives and 2.5″ SSDs or HDDs.
Energy efficiency is another forte; at only 15 watts under full load, it keeps the operating costs low and ensures silence with just 22 dBA noise. Overall, this Synology DiskStation DS224+ combines powerful hardware with an intuitive OS to be the king of budget NAS devices for anyone who seeks maximum value for their investment.
UGREEN NASync DXP2800 2-Bay NAS
A quad-core Intel 12th Gen N100 processor at its heart, the DXP2800 NAS is fast and agile enough to handle the heavy workloads of most demanding applications, thanks to 8GB of DDR5 RAM that can be extended to up to 16GB. The device supports two SATA bays with a maximum capacity of 60TB with two additional M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching with fast data access and performance.
One of the main interesting features of the DXP2800 is that it comes with an easy to use UGOS operating system, which makes the OS complex and simplifies how people manage their storage files from their smartphones, tablet devices, and smart TVs.
The dedicated app manages files easily without the hassle of multiple third-party tools, making it streamlined for the user. The 2.5GbE network port allows for speedy file transfers at up to 312.5MB/s for smooth streaming and fast backups. The DXP2800 also features professional-grade data security, ensuring that all user accounts and data are well protected.
Overall, the UGREEN NASync DXP2800 balances powerful hardware with an intuitive OS, making it a gem for budget-conscious users looking for an advanced NAS solution that does the job in terms of performance and value. Whether to store media files or just to set up a home server, this NAS won’t disappoint you
QNAP TS-264-8G 2-Bay – Great for Plex Enthusiasts
I recently got the opportunity to test QNAP TS-264-8G as a Plex media server, and I must say that it is a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade his home entertainment system. With the Intel Celeron N5095 processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM, this NAS delivers the performance needed for smooth media streaming, especially for Plex users.
One of the strong features for Plex enthusiasts is dual 2.5GbE ports, which dramatically increase data transfer speeds. This means I can stream high-resolution content without any buffering issues, even when multiple devices are accessing the server at the same time. In my testing, I was able to find that 4K content played flawlessly with clear passes on various formats such as H.264 and HEVC. The transcoding capabilities are impressive; it handled 4K UHD files effortlessly, allowing me to enjoy my movies in stunning quality.
Setting up Plex on the TS-264 was easy enough, thanks to the QTS interface that is easy to use. One-touch USB backup was nice too, so transferring my existing media library went smoothly. Write speeds aren’t the best during heavy file transfers, but overall performance in stream scenarios makes up for this.
For anyone serious about using Plex for their media needs, the QNAP TS-264-8G is a top contender. The combination of speed, performance, and ease of use makes it an excellent investment in creating a seamless home theater experience.
Nonetheless, the QNAP TS-264-8G remains a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and reliable NAS for Plex and other storage needs.
Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T – A Super NAS for Small Businesses
In the realm of 2-bay NAS devices, where versatility meets performance, the Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T emerges as a beacon of excellence. Designed for content creators, video editors, and small business users who demand nothing but the best, this NAS device offers a rich blend of features and capabilities. Packing a punch in processing power, the AS6702T boasts a quad-core engine that ensures seamless multitasking and responsive performance. I
ts two multi-gig Ethernet ports ensure swift and reliable network connectivity, crucial for businesses dealing with large files and data-intensive projects. These ports can be aggregated using the Server Message Block (SMB) Multichannel protocol, unlocking network speeds of up to 5Gbps total. This level of speed is a game-changer for businesses that rely on quick data transfers and seamless collaboration.
The AS6702T also excels in storage flexibility with its four M.2 SSD slots, providing a high-speed avenue for data caching and acceleration. Whether you’re editing high-definition videos or managing extensive multimedia libraries, the AS6702T ensures that data access and retrieval happen in the blink of an eye.
When it comes to expandability, this NAS device shines. Its extensive selection of Asustor and third-party apps opens up a world of possibilities, allowing users to tailor the device to their specific needs. Asustor understands that every business or content creator has unique requirements, and the AS6702T provides the toolbox to fulfill those demands. With the Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T, small businesses and content creators can rest easy, knowing they have a robust and feature-rich NAS device at their disposal.
While its price point may be on the higher side for a 2-bay NAS, the combination of features, performance, and expandability makes it an Editors’ Choice for those in search of a high-end, small business-oriented NAS unit. Whether you’re a video editor in need of lightning-fast storage solutions or a small business owner seeking versatile and reliable data management, the AS6702T proves itself as a worthy investment in the digital age.
Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra – Your Personal Cloud
When it comes to personal cloud storage, the WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN, part of the My Cloud series by Western Digital, stands out as a reliable and user-friendly option. This NAS device not only shares features with its predecessors, the original My Cloud and the My Cloud EX4, but it also distinguishes itself by offering superior performance.
One of the standout features of the WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN is its exceptional performance, surpassing its predecessors in terms of speed. It offers users the flexibility to easily replace or install internal hard drives, making it a convenient choice for those looking to tailor their storage to their specific needs.
In terms of pricing, the WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN maintains the affordability that characterizes the My Cloud series. With a suggested retail price of just $570 for the 8TB model (or $470 for 6TB and $370 for 4TB), it offers excellent value for money. Furthermore, you have the option to acquire the NAS for a mere $200 without a hard drive included, providing budget-conscious users with a cost-effective solution.
The design of the WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN is reminiscent of a thick book in a stand-up position, sharing the physical shape of WD’s My Book Studio desktop external hard drive. It features top-facing drive bays that are easily accessible, allowing you to replace or install internal drives in under a minute. This NAS accommodates all standard 3.5-inch internal hard drives from various manufacturers, and WD extends a three-year warranty, even if non-WD hard drives are used.
On the front panel, the server boasts small LED lights that indicate the status of power and the two internal drives. On the back, you’ll find a Gigabit network port and two USB 3.0 ports. The network port facilitates easy connection to your home network, while the USB ports offer the option to host external hard drives for backups or expanded storage space. During testing, these ports proved capable of powering bus-powered portable drives, such as the WD My Passport.
In conclusion, the WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN, or the My Cloud EX2, combines performance, ease of use, affordability, and a robust feature set. It’s an ideal choice for both small homes and offices with approximately five users, providing a seamless and cost-effective solution for network storage needs. If you’re seeking excellent network storage options, this NAS deserves serious consideration.
Asustor AS5402T Nimbustor 2 Gen2 – With 4xM.2 SSD Support
The Asustor AS5402T is truly impressive for a budget-conscious home user looking for a reliable NAS. For $369, it is quite an excellent value without any compromise on performance, and thus perfect for anyone looking to set up a home media server, especially for Plex.
The AS5402T is powered by an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor and has 8GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 16GB. So, streaming my favorite movies and shows is smooth and hassle-free. The dual 2.5GbE ports are a game changer, allowing for faster data transfers—perfect for streaming high-definition content without any buffering.
Setup Plex on the NAS was a breeze. This had a user-friendly interface so one could get everything sorted with ease. I specifically adore the hardware transcoding capacity; it can seamlessly stream through 4K videos flawlessly, which I require for my media. Four M.2 slots have been added for SSD caching, which is simply marvelous as I can make sure that I can complement it with hard drives as well for the best possible outcomes.
Although the AS5402T does not come with preinstalled drives, its performance and features justify an investment. The HDMI 2.0 output lets me connect directly to my TV, so it turns into a versatile media hub. In general, if you are a budget home user seeking a strong and efficient NAS for Plex, the Asustor AS5402T will be an excellent choice and won’t break the bank.
WD 4TB My Cloud – Ideal for Home Network Storage
The WD 4TB My Cloud (WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN), part of Western Digital’s My Cloud series, is a NAS device that seamlessly integrates into home network storage setups. It’s tailored for those seeking an efficient and user-friendly solution to store and access their data.
Amazon reviewer JaneSmith123 raves about this NAS, saying, “The WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN is a perfect fit for my home network. It’s incredibly easy to set up and provides a hassle-free way to manage my files and media. Plus, it offers the reliability that I expect from Western Digital.”
This NAS device is designed with simplicity in mind. Its straightforward setup process ensures that even users with minimal technical expertise can get it up and running quickly. It seamlessly integrates into your home network, allowing you to access your files, photos, and media from various devices.
With a spacious 4TB storage capacity, the WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN provides ample room to store your important files, photos, and videos. It caters to the needs of home users who want a reliable solution to centralize their data.
One of the standout features of this NAS is its reliability, a hallmark of Western Digital products. It operates quietly and efficiently, making it an ideal fit for home environments where noise can be a concern.
The WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN offers a Gigabit network port and two USB 3.0 ports, providing flexibility for connecting and expanding your storage options. It’s designed for those who value simplicity and dependability in their home network storage solution.
In conclusion, the WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN is the ideal choice for home network storage. Its user-friendly setup, reliability, and ample storage capacity make it a convenient solution for managing and accessing your data from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a casual user or someone who values simplicity in technology, this NAS is a perfect fit for your home network.
Synology 2-bay DS218+ – A Powerful Package in a Compact Size
The Synology 2-bay DS218+ is proof that big things come in small packages. This compact NAS packs a punch when it comes to performance and versatility. It’s designed to meet the needs of both home users and small businesses, offering an impressive range of features and capabilities.
One of the standout features of the DS218+ is its user-friendly hardware setup. Unlike traditional NAS devices that require screws and tools to install or replace hard drives, the DS218+ simplifies the process with drive trays featuring hooks and latches. This means no fiddling with screws and no need for additional tools. You can use standard SATA drives with this NAS, making it compatible with a wide range of storage options.
Amazon user TechReviewer567 shares their experience, saying, “The hardware setup of the DS218+ is a breeze. Attaching drives to the trays and sliding them into the server’s drive bays is a hassle-free process. You can start using your NAS quickly without any complicated installations.”
The real magic of the DS218+ lies in its NAS software ecosystem. Synology’s NAS servers are renowned for their powerful and diverse range of apps, and the DS218+ is no exception. Whether you need file storage, media streaming, backup solutions, or more, this NAS has you covered. The possibilities are virtually endless, and the DS218+ can run multiple apps simultaneously.
Performance-wise, the DS218+ excels. It operates quietly, efficiently, and reliably. With a Gigabit connection, it delivers impressive sustained copy speeds of 112 MB/s for writing and 113 MB/s for reading, which is about as fast as Gigabit can get.
In summary, the Synology 2-bay DS218+ offers a powerful and compact NAS solution that’s perfect for both home users and small businesses. Its hardware simplicity, versatile software ecosystem, and impressive performance make it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich NAS.
Conclusion
Finally, after perusing different options for an NAS, I am definitely of the opinion that, for any home user, Synology DiskStation DS224+ and UGREEN NASync DXP2800 would be the only two. This DS224+, with robust performance and highly user-friendly DiskStation Manager, made it an excellent choice in terms of media streaming and general file management, and as a unit which would undertake multiple things simultaneously, ensuring stability of the entire operation, distinguished itself within entry-level NAS market. Conversely, the UGREEN NASync DXP2800 also comes with a quad-core processor, expandable RAM, and provides good value if one seeks maximum speed and efficiency in home networking.
Asustor Lockgen 2 comes highly recommended for business users as the top selection in a category of network appliances for the management and storage needs of small to medium-sized businesses that necessitate a solid foundation in reliable data management and security. In combination with its multi-gig LAN and RAID versatility, the NAS has enough performance with room to grow in its development of use as it advances through their business cycle.
Overall, whether you’re a home user looking for an effective media server or a business in search of advanced data solutions, these NAS products truly offer tremendous value and performance tailored to your specific needs.
FAQs
1. What is a 2-bay NAS, and why would I need one?
A 2-bay NAS, or Network Attached Storage, is a storage device that connects to your home or office network, providing a centralized location to store, manage, and access data. It comes with two drive bays, each capable of holding a hard drive or SSD. You might need one to:
– Centralize Data: Store files, documents, photos, and videos in one place accessible to all devices on your network.
– Backup Solutions: Implement automated and secure backup solutions for all your devices.
– Media Streaming: Stream music, movies, and TV shows to your smart devices.
– Data Security: Protect critical data from loss or damage, especially when configured in RAID for redundancy.
– Collaboration: Share and collaborate on files and projects within a team or family.
2. How do I choose the right 2-bay NAS for my needs?
Choosing the right 2-bay NAS depends on your specific requirements:
– Usage: Determine whether it’s for personal use, business, or both.
– Performance: Consider your speed and performance needs, especially if you plan to stream media or use it for business applications.
– Data Capacity: Calculate the amount of storage space you need both now and in the future.
– Data Redundancy: Decide whether data redundancy through RAID is essential for your peace of mind.
– Budget: Stay within your budget while getting the features you need.
3. What makes Synology, QNAP, WD, and Asustor standout choices for 2-bay NAS?
These brands are known for their quality, performance, and extensive app ecosystems. Synology excels in user-friendly interfaces and reliable hardware, while QNAP offers robust performance and a vast app catalog. WD provides budget-friendly options without compromising on performance, and Asustor combines sleek design with powerful hardware.
4. Are 2-bay NAS devices future-proof?
Yes, 2-bay NAS devices in 2024 are designed with the future in mind. They incorporate features like SSD caching, advanced file systems like btrfs, and real-time 4K hardware transcoding. These features ensure your NAS can evolve with your data storage needs.
5. Can I upgrade the storage capacity of my 2-bay NAS?
Yes, most 2-bay NAS devices are designed to allow for easy storage expansion. You can typically replace existing drives with higher-capacity ones or, in some cases, use expansion bays to add more drives.
6. How do I ensure the security of my data on a 2-bay NAS?
To ensure data security, consider these steps:
– Enable User Authentication: Require usernames and passwords for access.
– Implement RAID: Configure RAID for data redundancy.
– Regular Backups: Maintain regular backups to an offsite location.
– Keep Software Updated: Install security updates promptly.
– Firewall Protection: Set up firewalls to block unauthorized access.
