For small offices seeking reliable data storage with RAID capabilities, choosing the right NAS can be a challenge. The best models combine performance, expandability, and ease of use, but tradeoffs often include cost, complexity, or limited upgrade options. The Zero1 2-Bay Desktop NAS stands out as the overall best for its balance of capacity and features, while the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT delivers high-speed connectivity ideal for demanding environments. On the other hand, simpler options like the Buffalo LinkStation SoHo 220 focus on straightforward cloud access at a lower price. Continue reading to see a detailed breakdown of these and other top picks, along with guidance to help you find the best fit for your small office.
Key Takeaways
- Top picks balance between capacity, performance, and ease of use, with the Zero1 offering the best overall features.
- High-speed connectivity like dual 10GbE is a game-changer for offices with heavy data transfer needs, as seen in UGREEN‘s models.
- Diskless setups provide flexibility but require additional investment in drives, which can impact total cost of ownership.
- Build quality and expandability are vital for future-proofing, especially in growing small office environments.
- Price varies widely; selecting a model depends on balancing budget constraints against desired performance and features.
| NAS with RAID for small office | Connectivity | RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Zero1 2-Bay Desktop NAS with 2 | 2.5GbE | 4GB |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay De | — | 8GB DDR4 |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | — | 8GB LPDDR4X |
| Buffalo LinkStation SoHo 220 2 | Gigabit Ethernet, USB | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | — | 1GB DDR4 |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 720 2 | 2.5 GbE | — |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2 | 2.5 GbE | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Deskt | 4K HDMI, 2.5 GbE | 8GB DDR5 |
| Synology DS223 Home & Office B | — | — |
| UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Deskto | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Zero1 2-Bay Desktop NAS with 2.5GbE, 60TB Capacity, Support for Docker, Remote Access, 4GB RAM, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The Zero1 2-Bay Desktop NAS stands out as an accessible option for individuals seeking simple, reliable storage. Its straightforward setup and 2.5GbE connectivity provide fast data transfer without overwhelming users. Unlike the larger capacity options like the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus, its limited two-bay design restricts expansion, but this simplifies management for small-scale needs. The support for Docker adds flexibility for tech-savvy users, though it may be unnecessary for those only wanting basic backups. The absence of included drives means higher initial costs, but it allows customization according to user preferences. This model suits those new to NAS or with modest storage needs who prioritize ease of use.
Pros:- Easy to set up and operate for beginners
- Fast 2.5GbE network speed for efficient transfers
- Supports Docker for advanced customization
- Remote access from multiple devices
Cons:- Hard drives must be purchased separately, adding to initial costs
- Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting future expansion
- No included drives, which may delay setup
Best for: Home users or small offices needing quick, simple backups and media streaming.
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring extensive storage or high scalability, as this device is limited to 2-bay capacity and lacks pre-installed drives.
- Maximum Capacity:60TB
- Diskless:Yes
- Connectivity:2.5GbE
- RAM:4GB
- Supports Docker:Yes
- Includes HDMI:Yes
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for individuals or small offices seeking a straightforward, cost-effective storage solution with basic media and backup capabilities.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Desktop NAS with AMD R2514 CPU, 8GB DDR4, Dual 10GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT caters to users needing high performance and extensive scalability. Its powerful AMD Ryzen embedded processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM enable smooth multitasking, surpassing the capabilities of the Asustor Drivestor 4 with only 1GB RAM, which limits multitasking. Dual 10GbE ports ensure rapid data access, ideal for media-heavy workflows or virtual environments. The inclusion of multiple SSD slots allows for significant storage expansion, though drives are not included, increasing upfront investment. Its surveillance features and robust security make it suitable for small offices with security needs. Compared to less capable models, this pick is designed for tech-savvy users who want a versatile, high-performance NAS.
Pros:- High-performance AMD Ryzen CPU for multitasking
- Dual 10GbE ports enable ultra-fast data transfers
- Supports multiple SSDs and extensive storage up to 144TB
- Includes surveillance center and security features
Cons:- Drives are sold separately, adding to total cost
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, limiting error correction
- Setup and configuration may require technical knowledge
Best for: Small offices or media professionals requiring high performance, scalability, and advanced features.
Not ideal for: Less experienced users or those on a tight budget, as its advanced features and drive costs may be overwhelming or costly.
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2 SSD
- Max Storage Capacity:144TB
- Network Ports:2x 10GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for tech-savvy users and small offices needing high performance and expandability, accepting higher initial costs and complexity.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Attached Storage (Diskless) with 8GB RAM, 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI, Supports Up to 128TB
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus offers a balanced mix of capacity, ease of use, and multimedia features, making it suitable for users new to NAS or needing a private cloud. Its 8GB RAM and support for up to 128TB provide ample room for media libraries and backups. Compared with the Zero1, it has more storage capacity and better encryption, though it lacks Wi-Fi and virtual machine support. Its straightforward setup and multimedia support make it attractive for small offices prioritizing local, secure storage. However, the absence of included drives and the wired-only connection limit flexibility for some users.
Pros:- Large storage capacity up to 128TB
- User-friendly setup with remote access
- Supports multimedia and AI photo management
- Secure local storage with encryption
Cons:- No Wi-Fi support, limiting wireless flexibility
- No virtual machine support, restricting advanced use
- Requires separate purchase of drives
Best for: Home users or small businesses looking for an affordable, high-capacity media server with easy management.
Not ideal for: Users requiring wireless or virtual machine capabilities, as it supports only wired connections and lacks VM support.
- Support Capacity:up to 128TB
- RAM:8GB LPDDR4X
- Network:2.5GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Drive Bays:4
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, web browsers
Our verdict“This NAS makes sense for users needing a simple, secure media storage solution without complex features or wireless connectivity.”
Buffalo LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud NAS 4TB with Hard Drives Included
The Buffalo LinkStation SoHo 220 offers a straightforward, ready-to-use NAS with included drives, making it ideal for small offices or home use that prioritize simplicity. Its RAID support ensures data redundancy with RAID 1, and pre-installed 4TB drives eliminate setup delays. Compared to larger, more expandable models like the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus, its 2-bay design limits future growth, but it provides peace of mind with included drives and a three-year warranty. Its network setup remains simple, though it lacks advanced features like multimedia streaming or virtualization. This pick suits users who want reliable, plug-and-play storage with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Pre-installed 4TB drives with RAID 0/1 support
- Automatic backups for multiple devices
- Secure remote access and data encryption
- Three-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting future capacity
- Network setup may be complex for some users
- No advanced multimedia or virtualization features
Best for: Small offices or home users seeking an easy, reliable, and affordable shared storage solution with included drives.
Not ideal for: Grow-focused users or those needing advanced features like multimedia streaming, as the 2-bay limit restricts expansion and capabilities.
- Capacity:4TB
- Number of Bays:2
- RAID Support:RAID 0, RAID 1
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, USB
- Supported OS:Windows, macOS
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is well-suited for small offices or homes seeking a simple, reliable, and ready-to-use shared storage with included drives.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T offers a compelling package for small offices that need versatile media support and flexible RAID options. Its quad-core Realtek processor and 2.5GbE port deliver good performance, while the support for multiple RAID levels makes it adaptable to various redundancy needs. Compared to the Zero1, it offers more robust RAID support but less RAM, which can impact multitasking performance. The device’s media streaming and remote access capabilities are strong, yet it requires users to purchase drives separately, adding to the total cost. Its WORM and security features make it suitable for sensitive data storage, especially for those who prioritize data integrity and multimedia use.
Pros:- Supports multiple RAID configurations for redundancy
- High-speed 2.5GbE network for faster data transfer
- Supports 4K media streaming and remote access
- Features WORM and security options for data protection
Cons:- Limited RAM (1GB DDR4), affecting multitasking capabilities
- Drives are sold separately, increasing setup costs
- Complex initial setup for some advanced features
Best for: Small offices or media-centric users needing a balance of performance, flexibility, and security.
Not ideal for: Users requiring high multitasking or virtual machine support, as it has limited RAM and no virtualized features.
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:4
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/10
- Media Support:4K Streaming
- Features:Btrfs, WORM, Remote Access
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for small offices that need flexible RAID options and media capabilities, accepting some limitations in multitasking and initial expense.”
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 720 2-Bay Professional Office NAS 4TB with Hard Drives Included
This model stands out for its robust performance tailored to small office environments, offering 2.5 GbE connectivity that outpaces many competitors like the UGREEN NAS DH2300, which only supports 1GbE. Its RAID 1 feature ensures data redundancy, a vital aspect for business continuity, though it halves usable capacity compared to non-RAID setups. The inclusion of hard drives simplifies setup, and the 3-year warranty plus US-based support provide peace of mind. Compared with diskless options like the Synology DS223, this NAS delivers ready-to-go storage, but at the cost of less flexibility for future drive upgrades. Overall, it’s ideal for small offices needing a reliable, secure, and easy-to-maintain storage solution with RAID redundancy.
Pros:- High-capacity 4TB storage with RAID options for redundancy
- Secure, subscription-free personal cloud access
- 24/7 US-based support and 3-year warranty
Cons:- Requires network setup for initial configuration
- Limited to small office or home environments; not scalable for larger needs
- RAID 1 reduces usable capacity to 2TB
Best for: Small office environments requiring straightforward, reliable storage with RAID safety features
Not ideal for: Home users or those needing flexible, expandable storage options without pre-installed drives
- Capacity:4TB
- Number of Bays:2
- Connectivity:2.5 GbE
- Supported OS:Windows, MacOS
- Warranty:3 years
- Hard Drives Included:Yes
Our verdict“A solid choice for small offices seeking dependable RAID-enabled storage with easy setup and support.”
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud NAS 8TB with Hard Drives Included
Compared with the BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 720, the 220 version offers a larger 8TB capacity and supports RAID 0 and RAID 1, making it versatile for small office data safety and sharing. Its inclusion of drives and support for multiple OS platforms simplifies deployment, though some features are limited to macOS 15 and earlier, which could restrict future updates. The RAID support ensures data redundancy, but RAID 1 halves usable space to 4TB, potentially limiting storage for growing needs. The 2.5 GbE connection offers faster network speeds than standard Gigabit, improving data transfer for small teams. This model makes the most sense for users who want a cost-effective RAID-enabled NAS with ample storage and easy sharing, but not for those needing the latest OS feature support or maximum expansion potential.
Pros:- Supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 for flexible data safety
- Includes hard drives for quick deployment
- Supports encrypted file transfers and easy sharing
Cons:- Limited to macOS 15 and earlier for some features
- RAID 1 halves usable capacity, limiting storage expansion
- Some advanced features require specific OS versions
Best for: Small offices or home offices wanting a budget-friendly RAID NAS with substantial storage
Not ideal for: Users needing the latest OS features or larger scalability beyond 8TB total capacity
- Total Capacity:8TB
- Drive Bays:2
- RAID Support:Yes (RAID 0 and RAID 1)
- Connectivity:2.5 GbE
- Supported OS:Windows, macOS (up to macOS 15)
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“An excellent value RAID NAS with generous storage for small office needs, provided OS compatibility is met.”
UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Desktop Network Attached Storage (Diskless)
This diskless NAS offers impressive flexibility, supporting up to 80TB of storage, making it suitable for users with extensive data needs, unlike the other pre-configured options. Its Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM cater to advanced users who want to run AI photo organization or other applications locally. While setup requires some technical knowledge, this model’s modular nature allows future upgrades and large capacity expansion. It supports RAID configurations, but the absence of drives means initial investment in disks is necessary. Compared to the more straightforward Buffalo models, this offers more power and capacity, but at a higher complexity and cost. It’s ideal for remote workers or small offices with substantial storage demands and technical expertise.
Pros:- Supports up to 80TB storage with RAID options
- Powerful Intel N100 processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM
- AI photo organization and duplicate detection
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for initial setup
- No included disks, additional purchase needed
- Limited to 2 bays; not suitable for very large-scale data needs
Best for: Tech-savvy small office users or remote workers needing high storage capacity and advanced features
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a plug-and-play solution with minimal setup
- Processor:Intel N100 Quad-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Maximum Storage Capacity:80TB
- Connectivity:4K HDMI, 2.5 GbE
- Diskless:Yes
- M.2 NVMe Slots:2
Our verdict“An excellent choice for technically inclined users requiring large, expandable storage with powerful processing features.”
Synology DS223 Home & Office Backup Hub – 2-Bay Diskless NAS
Compared to the Buffalo options, the Synology DS223 offers a flexible, diskless platform ideal for users new to NAS, with expandable storage and easy-to-use software. It excels in consolidating files from multiple devices, supporting professional sharing, and automated backups, but requires users to purchase hard drives separately—adding initial complexity. Its support for transforming into a surveillance hub adds additional value for small offices wanting security integration. However, its 2-year warranty and potentially complex setup might deter complete novices. This pick makes the most sense for small offices or home users seeking a reliable, adaptable backup and file-sharing solution without pre-installed drives or advanced enterprise features.
Pros:- Centralizes data across multiple devices for easy access
- Supports professional file sharing and automated backups
- Can be transformed into surveillance system
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of hard drives
- Setup may be challenging for beginners
- Limited to NAS functions without additional drives
Best for: Beginners or small offices needing straightforward backup and file sharing with future expandability
Not ideal for: Power users or those requiring high-performance hardware for intensive tasks
- Number of Bays:2
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Use Case:Home & Office
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“A reliable, beginner-friendly NAS ideal for small offices focused on backup and file sharing versatility.”
UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Desktop NAS Support Capacity 64TB Diskless
This model targets newcomers with its straightforward, easy-to-setup design, making it appealing for small offices or home users wanting private storage for media and files. Its 64TB support strikes a balance between capacity and simplicity, and RAID options add basic data security. However, without Wi-Fi support unless an external adapter is added, and lacking advanced features like Docker or virtual machines, it’s limited to fundamental NAS functions. The 1GbE network interface might slow transfers for larger data moves compared to the 2.5 GbE options. It’s a suitable choice for beginners prioritizing ease of use over advanced customization or scalability.
Pros:- Supports up to 64TB storage capacity
- Easy to set up with RAID options for data security
- Includes AI features for photo organization
Cons:- No Wi-Fi support without external adapter
- Limited to basic NAS functions; not suitable for enterprise use
- No support for Docker or virtual machines
Best for: Beginners or small office users needing simple, large-capacity local storage
Not ideal for: Power users or offices requiring advanced virtualization or high-speed networking
- Support Capacity:64TB
- Diskless:Yes
- Network Interface:1GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Processor:High-performance processor
- File Transfer Speed:125MB/s
Our verdict“A straightforward, high-capacity NAS designed for users new to network storage seeking simplicity and reliability.”
How We Picked
The selection process focused on models that support RAID configurations, essential for data redundancy in small offices. We evaluated performance benchmarks, build quality, user interface, and expandability options. Ease of setup and management was also considered, ensuring the NAS is practical for non-technical users. Cost was factored in, but models offering superior performance or future-proofing received higher rankings. Our goal was to identify options suitable for small office environments that require reliable, scalable, and secure storage solutions with RAID support.Factors to Consider When Choosing NAS With RAID For Small Office
Choosing the right NAS with RAID for a small office involves more than just capacity or price. You need to consider how the device integrates with your existing network, future storage needs, and the level of technical expertise available for management. Balancing these factors helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures your investment remains valuable over time.Performance and Speed
For a small office, fast data transfer speeds can significantly improve workflow, especially when multiple users access large files simultaneously. Look for models with gigabit or multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, and consider those with SSD caching or high-performance CPUs. However, higher performance often comes at a higher cost, so weigh your actual speed needs against your budget.
Capacity and Scalability
While current storage needs might be modest, future growth is inevitable. Choose a NAS that supports expansion via additional drives or higher-capacity disks. Diskless models offer flexibility but require upfront investment in drives, which can increase initial costs. Think about your long-term data growth to avoid frequent replacements.
Ease of Use and Management
User-friendly interfaces and setup wizards can save time and reduce frustration, especially if your team isn’t highly technical. Look for models with intuitive apps, remote management options, and clear RAID configuration guides. Complex setups can lead to misconfigurations or underutilization of features, undermining your investment.
Security and Data Protection
RAID provides redundancy, but additional security features like encryption, user access controls, and automatic backups are vital for safeguarding sensitive business data. Ensure your NAS supports these features and that they are straightforward to enable and manage, reducing risks associated with data breaches or hardware failure.
Cost and Total Ownership
Beyond initial purchase price, consider costs for drives, maintenance, and potential upgrades. Some budget models might save money upfront but lack future-proof features or have higher ongoing costs. Investing slightly more in a durable, expandable model can pay off over the device’s lifespan, especially in a professional setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a diskless NAS or one with pre-installed drives?
Opting for a diskless NAS provides flexibility to select drives that match your performance and capacity needs, often reducing costs initially. However, it requires additional effort to purchase and install drives, which could be a challenge if you’re unfamiliar with hardware setup. Pre-installed drives are more convenient but tend to be more expensive, and you are limited to the included drives’ specifications and expansion options.
How important is dual 10GbE support in a small office NAS?
Dual 10GbE ports can significantly improve data transfer speeds, especially if your team works with large files or backups frequently. For most small offices, gigabit Ethernet may suffice, but if you anticipate heavy multi-user access or plan to upgrade to faster network infrastructure, models with 10GbE support provide a future-proof advantage that reduces bottlenecks.
Is it better to buy a NAS with hardware encryption or software encryption?
Hardware encryption generally offers better performance and lower CPU load compared to software encryption, making it preferable for handling sensitive data without sacrificing speed. However, it may increase the cost of the device. If security is a priority and budget allows, choose a NAS with built-in hardware encryption features to simplify data protection.
What RAID level should I consider for small office data protection?
RAID 1 or RAID 5 are common choices for small offices, offering a good balance between redundancy and storage efficiency. RAID 1 mirrors data, providing straightforward redundancy, while RAID 5 distributes parity across drives, allowing for more storage capacity with protection. Consider your data criticality, available drives, and performance needs when selecting the appropriate RAID level.
How much should I budget for a NAS with RAID in a small office?
Entry-level models with basic RAID support can start around a few hundred dollars, but higher-performance or larger-capacity units tend to cost $500 to $1000 or more. Remember to factor in the cost of drives, which can double your total investment. Spending more upfront on a reliable, scalable model can save costs related to replacements or upgrades down the line.
