What exactly is a NAS?

Well, NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. A NAS is basically a computer that is optimized to sync data, serve files on a local network. In simpler terms, a NAS can pull and store your images, videos, and other data from your phone, PC, and other devices. This data can later be conveniently accessed by any of your devices when needed. The best NAS devices not only make your files and folders available on a local network but also allow remote access via the internet – in a safe and secure manner, of course. This means you get better control and can access your important documents from the other side of the world if need be. In 2021 NAS machines can be used to host email, database, virtual private network(VPN) server, BitTorrent box, CMS, CRM, and e-commerce software. It can also be used for DVRs for networked security cameras.

Should you buy a NAS?

Yes, if you wish to better organize and seamlessly share data across multiple devices at home. While the best NAS devices may not be at the top of your most-desired list, they’re a reliable way of making sure you can conveniently your files when you need them. And, because they are platform-agnostic, it doesn’t matter what OS is running on a particular device.

Best NAS devices of 2021 in India

1. Synology DiskStation 220+

The DiskStation 220+ (review) is an excellent option for home users. It’s a two-drive bay machine that can collectively hold up to 32TB of storage. Alternatively, you can opt for up to 16GB RAID configuration. It is driven by an Intel Celeron J4025 processor coupled with 2GB of DDR4 RAM. One can further expand memory up to 6GB.
The Synology DiskStation DS220+ has low power consumption while delivering high-speed data transmission. With its two 1GB LAN ports, you can use link aggregation for faster transfer speeds. The DS220+ is also capable of Plex streaming in 4K. With DS220+ you can also backup all your smart devices and PCs within minutes. If you are looking for a budget NAS the Synology DiskStation 220+ should be your first preference. Specs Capacity: 2 bays; Up to 32TB | Connectivity: 2 x 1GbE LAN, 2 x USB 3.2 | Processor: Intel Celeron J4025 | Memory: 2GB RAM; expandable up to 6GB| Today’s best deal: 

2. Asustor AS5202T

Asustor AS5202T is another excellent option for home NAS buyers. The two-bay NAS is slightly costlier than the Synology DS220+ but offers similar performance in day-to-day life. The AS5202T is powered by an Intel Gemini Lake Celeron J4005 dual-core CPU with on-chip cache to 4MB. It comes with 2GB DDR4 RAM and can be upgraded up to 8GB. Where it scores an upper hand over DS220+ is transfer speeds. It comes with two 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports with link aggregation delivering up to 5 Gbps transfer speeds. It also has an HDMI port and three USB 3.2 ports for connectivity. The capable hardware ensures that the 4K Plex server runs smoothly. Specs: Capacity: 2 bays; Up to 32TB | Connectivity: 2 x 2.5GbE LAN, 3 x USB 3.2 | Processor: Intel Celeron J4005| Memory: 2GB RAM; expandable up to 6GB|

3. Synology DiskStation DS 920+

If you are looking for a four-bay NAS with excellent media server capabilities, Synology DiskStation DS 920+ could a perfect buy. With its robust innards, it can fly even with 4k transcoding. Users can also slip in NVMe SSDs for caching which boosts performance. Just like most Synology NAS’, this one also supports Synology Surveillance Station where the DS920+ can act as a full-featured video surveillance system. All you need to do is just add network-connected cameras and your 24X7 security setup is up and running. Not just that, with tons of apps you can get almost everything done with Synology DS 920+. If 64TB is not enough, you can connect it with DX517 expansion unit and it will allow storage adds up to 80TB. Specs: Capacity: 4 bays; Up to 64TB | Connectivity: 2 x 1GbE LAN, 2 x USB 3.1 | Processor: Intel Celeron J4025| Memory: 4GB RAM; expandable up to 8GB|

4. Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T

Asustor Lockerstor is another star from the NAS maker. It is clearly one of the best Plex media server NAS with an HDMI 2.0a port that allows you to plug and play without any need for transcoding. Driven by a rock-solid Intel Celeron J4125 processor the Lockerstor is good to perform almost anything without breaking a sweat. It has 4GB DDR4 RAM which can be expanded to 8GB. This mid-tier NAS from Asustor also comes with 4 free IP camera licenses for home surveillance and 200+ apps for various uses. It also has two built-in 2.5GbE ports (link aggregation supported) and three USB 3.2 ports. Capacity: 4 bays; Up to 64TB | Connectivity: 2 x 2.5GbE LAN, 3 x USB 3.2 | Processor: Intel Celeron J4125| Memory: 4GB RAM; expandable up to 8GB| Today’s best deal:

5. QNAP TS-451+

QNAP is another Taiwanese brand that makes the cut with TS-451+ four-bay NAS. Just like the Asustor AS5202T, this one also has a dedicated HDMI port through which you can plug it into a TV directly. Another USP of the QNAP TS-451+ is a remote control for navigation. It supports hardware-accelerated transcoding up to 1080p. The QNAP 4 bay NAS is powered by an Intel Celeron J1900 chipset which is coupled with 2GB of RAM. Of course, you can expand it to 8GB DDR3L memory. It also includes two USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports and has two-gigabit ethernet ports with link aggregation. The only downside is that the software is not as versatile and user-friendly as DSM by Synology. Specs: Capacity: 4 bays; Up to 64TB | Connectivity: 2 x 2.5GbE LAN, 2 x USB 3.2, 2 x USB 2.0 | Processor: Intel Celeron J1900 | Memory: 4GB RAM; expandable up to 8GB| Today’s best deal:

List of best NAS devices of 2021 in India

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