In this article we disucss some of the best 2-bay NAS devices that offers the ideal solution for safeguarding your vital data, from cherished memories to critical work files, in our data-driven world.
Data is the foundation of our personal and professional lives in the constantly interconnected digital world. The need to manage and protect your data, which includes anything from priceless family photographs and sizable media collections to crucial business documents and project files, has never been greater. Network-attached storage (NAS) devices can provide a centralized, dependable, and secure option for data management in this situation.
We will dig into the realm of 2-bay NAS devices and examine the top choices to make in 2024 in this detailed guide. Our NAS unit selection has undergone extensive study to satisfy various requirements and tastes, from personal video streaming and Plex server hosting to business data storage and security. Let’s begin our adventure into the world of 2-bay NAS systems now. You will learn about the best 15 NAS devices in this post, which have been carefully chosen because they are outstanding in terms of performance, features, and price. Our highlighted goods are as follows:
List of best 2-bay NAS:
- QNAP TS-253D-4G 2-Bay – Great for Plex Enthusiasts
- WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN – Your Personal Cloud
- WDS500G1R0A – Unmatched 10-Year Warranty
- Asustor AS6602T – Power Efficiency Redefined
- WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN – Ideal for Home Network Storage
- Synology 2-bay DS218+ – A Powerful Package in a Compact Size
- ioSafe 218-DISKLESS – The Fort Knox of NAS
- Synology DS220j – A Budget-Friendly Gem
- Asustor Nimbustor 2 Gen2 (AS5402T) – Versatile and Speedy
- QNAP HS-264 – Performance Meets Innovation
- Asustor Drivestor 2 Pro AS3302T – Reliable and Affordable
- Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 – A Super NAS for Small Businesses
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 aficionado, a small company owner, or someone in need of dependable data storage. We will examine the main characteristics, advantages, and reasons why these NAS devices stand out on the market in 2024 in order 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.
QNAP TS-253D-4G 2-Bay – Great for Plex Enthusiasts
For Plex enthusiasts and users seeking high-speed connectivity and expandability, the QNAP TS-253D-4G is a compelling choice. This two-bay NAS is designed to cater to both business and home users who demand a versatile network-attached storage device. Powered by a robust 2GHz Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor, the TS-253D delivers solid performance in our file transfer tests, making it an excellent option for media streaming via Plex.
Measuring 6.6 by 4.1 by 8.9 inches (HWD), the TS-253D-4G’s chassis is well-suited for 2.5 and 3.5-inch drives and supports configurations like single JBOD, RAID 0, and RAID 1. It accommodates a total capacity of 32TB using two 16TB drives. If you need even more storage, QNAP provides expansion options through SATA or USB ports.
The front-loading drive bays are concealed behind a sleek black translucent panel, and accessing the drives is tool-free—simply unlock the panel and slide it off to access the drives, secured with snap-on brackets. As with many NAS devices, the TS-253D-4G comes without drives, so you must provide your storage solution.
On the front panel, LED indicators display system status, LAN activity, drive activity, and USB activity. Additionally, you’ll find a power button, a USB 3.2 port, and a convenient USB One-Touch Copy button. Around the back, there are dual 2.5GbE LAN ports that can be linked to deliver 5GbE connectivity, as well as two USB 3.2 ports and a pair of USB 2.0 ports. A reset button and power jack complete the back panel.
While the TS-253D-4G is an excellent choice for many, it’s worth mentioning that it faces stiff competition from the Asustor AS6602T, our Editors’ Choice winner for two-bay NAS devices, which offers slightly faster performance and a broader range of available apps for just $30 more. Nonetheless, the TS-253D-4G remains a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and reliable NAS for Plex and other storage needs.
WDBVBZ0040JCH-NESN – 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.
WDS500G1R0A – Unmatched 10-Year Warranty
When it comes to investing in a solid-state drive (SSD), reliability and warranty terms are paramount considerations. The WDS500G1R0A from Western Digital stands out in the market with its unmatched 10-year warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance of long-term performance. With a generous 500GB storage capacity, this SSD caters to a wide range of users, from gamers seeking faster load times to professionals handling large media files. Its read and write speeds ensure swift data access and transfer, making it an excellent choice for those who demand high performance from their storage solutions.
The WDS500G1R0A utilizes Western Digital’s cutting-edge NAND technology, providing not only exceptional speed but also durability. With a 10-year warranty, Western Digital showcases its commitment to quality and longevity, instilling confidence in users that their investment will stand the test of time.
This SSD is not only fast and reliable but also energy-efficient, making it a well-rounded choice for both personal and professional use. With the WDS500G1R0A, you’re not only investing in top-tier storage performance but also in peace of mind that your data will remain safe and accessible for years to come.
Asustor AS6602T – Power Efficiency Redefined
The Asustor AS6602T, also known as the LockerStor 2, is a shining example of a NAS device that redefines power efficiency without compromising on performance. Priced at $399, this two-bay NAS offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and energy-conscious design.
At first glance, the AS6602T exudes a more business-like aesthetic compared to some of its gaming-oriented counterparts. With a matte black finish and an all-metal shell in pewter, it strikes an impressive balance between functionality and style. It’s a NAS that not only performs well but looks good doing it.
Under the hood, the AS6602T boasts a powerful combination of hardware components. With 4GB of DDR4-2400 memory and an Intel Celeron J4125 CPU running at 2GHz, it offers snappy performance for a variety of tasks. Additionally, it provides a second SODIMM slot, allowing users to expand the memory to 8GB for even greater versatility.
One standout feature of the AS6602T is its two 3.5-inch bays, featuring push-button release and a durable combo metal/plastic construction. Unlike many other NAS devices in its price range, the AS6602T opts for metal over plastic, ensuring durability and longevity.
On the front panel, you’ll find a power button, a single 5Gbps Type-A USB port, and the standard power and drive status/activity LEDs. Around the back, the NAS boasts two 2.5GbE (RJ45) ethernet ports that can be aggregated for improved performance. It also features two additional 5Gbps Type-A USB ports, an HDMI 2.0a output, a Kensington lock port, and a barrel-shaped power jack.
One noteworthy aspect of the AS6602T is its support for M.2/NVMe slots for SSDs, enhancing its performance potential. While installation of these SSDs requires removing the shell and a PCIe adapter card, it’s a minor inconvenience for what is likely to be a one-time operation.
In conclusion, the Asustor AS6602T strikes an impressive balance between style, performance, and power efficiency. Whether you’re a home user or a small business owner, this NAS offers a robust solution for your storage and data management needs.
WDBCTL0040HWT-NESN – Ideal for Home Network Storage
The 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.
ioSafe 218-DISKLESS – The Fort Knox of NAS
When it comes to safeguarding your data against disasters like fire and water damage, the ioSafe 218-DISKLESS stands as the Fort Knox of NAS devices. This robust and reliable network attached storage solution takes data protection to a whole new level, making it a favored choice for those who prioritize data security above all else.
One unique aspect of the ioSafe 218-DISKLESS is its fireproof and waterproof design. It’s built to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring that your data remains intact even in the face of disaster. It’s available in both “diskless” and pre-configured options, allowing you to choose whether to provide your own hard drives or opt for the convenience of pre-installed drives.
Amazon user DataSecurityPro praises the ioSafe, stating, “The ioSafe 218 provides an unparalleled level of data protection. With its fireproof and waterproof design, it offers peace of mind that your data is safe, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
The pre-configured models often come with Seagate IronWolf hard drives, offering substantial storage capacity. The ioSafe 218-DISKLESS operates in a RAID 1 configuration by default, which means that your data is mirrored on both drives, providing redundancy and data protection. If one drive fails, your data remains safe on the other.
Furthermore, the ioSafe 218 runs the Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) software, which enhances its capabilities for data collaboration and backup. It combines the best of both worlds—robust hardware protection and feature-rich software.
In conclusion, the ioSafe 218-DISKLESS is the ultimate choice for those who prioritize data security above all else. Its fireproof and waterproof design, coupled with its RAID 1 configuration and Synology DSM software, make it an unbeatable solution for safeguarding your critical data.
Synology DS220j – A Budget-Friendly Gem
The Synology DS220j is a budget-friendly gem in the world of NAS devices. It proves that affordability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing essential features and functionality. Priced competitively, the DS220j offers an attractive entry point for home users seeking a reliable and capable network attached storage solution.
Despite its budget-friendly price point, the DS220j doesn’t compromise on quality. It features two drive bays that can accommodate standard 3.5-inch SATA drives. The hardware setup is straightforward and hassle-free, making it accessible even for those new to NAS devices.
One Amazon user, BudgetTechSavvy, shares their experience, saying, “The DS220j is a fantastic NAS for the budget-conscious. Setting it up was a breeze, and it provides ample storage capacity for home use. It’s a reliable choice for storing and accessing files and media.”
The DS220j may be budget-friendly, but it still operates on Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) software, a powerful and versatile platform known for its extensive app support. This means that, despite its lower price, you can still enjoy a wide range of features, including file storage, media streaming, and backup solutions.
Performance-wise, the DS220j delivers respectable speeds for typical home use scenarios. It may not be the fastest NAS on the market, but it certainly gets the job done for storing and accessing files, photos, and media in a home environment.
In summary, the Synology DS220j is a budget-friendly NAS gem that doesn’t compromise on essential features. Its straightforward setup, reliable performance, and access to Synology’s DSM software make it an ideal choice for home users looking for an affordable and capable network attached storage solution.
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.
FAQs: Navigating the World of 2-Bay NAS
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.
Conclusion
As we journey into the digital age, the importance of future-proofing our data storage solutions cannot be overstated.
Whether you’re seeking a device for media streaming, data security, ease of use, or budget-friendliness, a well-chosen best 2-bay NAS can adapt and scale to accommodate your growth. As technology advances, you can rest assured that your data management solutions will evolve with you, ensuring your digital life remains organized, accessible, and secure.
These best 2-bay NAS devices of 2024 above prove that features do not limit you but only expandable slots. If you’re interested, you can dive into a 4-bay NAS, which is expensive, but you can add storage as you need in the future.
