If you’re searching for the best 4-bay NAS devices of 2026 for reliable data sharing, I recommend devices that combine high performance, robust security, and easy management. Look for models with powerful processors like Intel or Realtek, support for high-speed ports, and large scalable storage capacities. Features like RAID for redundancy and user-friendly interfaces are essential. Keep exploring the options, and you’ll find more details to help you choose the perfect device for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Look for models with high-capacity support up to 120TB and multiple RAID options for data redundancy.
- Prioritize devices with fast network ports like 2.5GbE, 5GbE, or 10GbE for efficient data sharing.
- Choose NAS with robust security features, including encryption and multi-factor authentication, for reliable data protection.
- Opt for models with user-friendly interfaces, mobile app access, and easy setup for seamless management.
- Consider devices with hardware-accelerated 4K transcoding and SSD caching for smooth media streaming and quick data access.
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless) |  | Best Overall Performance | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2.5GbE port | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports user-installed drives (various brands) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) Black |  | Best Privacy & Security | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5GbE port | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports drives from major brands, compatible with list | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless) |  | High Capacity Powerhouse | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet (implied) | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports drives on official list | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN DH4300 Plus 4-Bay NAS with 120TB Support |  | Best For Photo Management | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE ports | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports third-party drives (from major brands) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Network Storage |  | Best Multimedia Capabilities | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5GbE port | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports drives from Western Digital, Seagate, Toshiba | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Yxk Zero1 4-Bay NAS with HDMI and Dual 2.5GbE |  | User-Friendly For Home | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE ports | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports drives from multiple brands; compatible list | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS Storage 4-Bay (Diskless) |  | Best Enterprise Features | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE ports | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports drives on official compatibility list | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ORICO 4-Bay RAID Hard Drive Enclosure 88TB |  | Cost-Effective Storage | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 1 x 150W power, Ethernet ports not specified | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports SATA drives (3.5-inch, HDDs) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Drives Included |  | Reliable Backup Solution | Storage Bays**: 4-bay, pre-installed drives included (RAID) | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5GbE port | Compatibility/Drive Support: Pre-installed drives (4 x 4TB) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium CPU |  | High-Speed Data Transfer | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 1 x 10GbE port + 1 x 2.5GbE port | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports third-party drives (from brands like WD, Seagate) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4 SSD NAS Storage (Diskless) |  | Compact SSD Power | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 1 x 5GbE port (via 10GbE support) | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports NVMe SSDs (for M.2 slots) and SATA drives | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-464-8G-US Desktop NAS with Dual 2.5GbE |  | Best For Small Business | Storage Bays: 4-bay, diskless | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE ports | Compatibility/Drive Support**: Supports 3.5-inch SATA disks (up to 88TB total) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless)
If you’re looking for a versatile storage solution for your home or small office, the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 NAS (Diskless) is an excellent choice. It features a 4-bay design, a powerful Realtek RTD1619B quad-core processor, and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth performance. The upgraded internal display makes setup straightforward, while the superfast 2.5GbE port supports efficient data transfers and 4K video transcoding. With support for Wake on LAN and WAN, along with Btrfs snapshots for data protection, this diskless NAS provides flexible, reliable storage tailored for media streaming and backup needs.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2.5GbE port
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports user-installed drives (various brands)
- Backup & Data Security Features:iSCSI snapshots, Wake on LAN/WAN, data protection
- CPU Type:Realtek RTD1619B quad-core
- Mobile & Remote Access:Supports Wake on LAN/WAN, easy setup
- Additional Feature:Upgraded internal display
- Additional Feature:Supports Wake on WAN
- Additional Feature:2.5GbE network port
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) Black
The Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) Black is an excellent choice for individuals or small businesses seeking a secure, private cloud solution that they can customize and expand. Its sleek black design blends seamlessly into any setup, offering reliable remote access and file sharing from anywhere. With all-encompassing data protection features like snapshots and multi-destination backups, it safeguards your media and documents against malware and corruption. Supporting up to 30 IP cameras, it also doubles as a versatile surveillance hub. Backed by a 2-year warranty and extensive support resources, the DS423 provides flexible, scalable storage tailored to your specific needs.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5GbE port
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports drives from major brands, compatible with list
- Backup & Data Security Features:Snapshot technology, remote access, data security
- CPU Type:Not specified (general NAS CPU implied)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Compatible with Synology apps, remote access
- Additional Feature:Supports up to 30 IP cameras
- Additional Feature:Secure private cloud
- Additional Feature:2-year warranty
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless)
For anyone seeking a robust, high-performance storage solution, the Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS425+ (Diskless) stands out as an excellent choice. It supports drives on the official compatibility list, ensuring reliable operation. With up to 278/281 MB/s sequential read/write speeds, it delivers stable data transfers for demanding tasks. You can store up to 80 TB of data in one location, maintaining full ownership and control. The device includes built-in file and photo management, data protection, and surveillance solutions. Plus, it’s backed by a 3-year limited hardware warranty, offering peace of mind and dependable support.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2 x Gigabit Ethernet (implied)
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports drives on official list
- Backup & Data Security Features:Data protection, snapshots, built-in management tools
- CPU Type:Not specified (Intel or similar)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Supports remote management, app control
- Additional Feature:Supports 80 TB total
- Additional Feature:Built-in photo management
- Additional Feature:3-year hardware warranty
UGREEN DH4300 Plus 4-Bay NAS with 120TB Support
The UGREEN DH4300 Plus 4-Bay NAS stands out as an ideal solution for individuals or small businesses seeking substantial local storage without ongoing cloud fees. It offers a massive 120TB capacity, supporting up to four hard drives (sold separately), compatible with brands like Western Digital and Seagate. Designed for beginners, it features a user-friendly app, NFC setup, and easy remote access across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and smart TVs. With a high-performance processor, 8GB RAM, and 2.5GbE port, it ensures fast transfers and smooth operation. Plus, it provides automatic backups, secure local storage, and intelligent photo management, all at a one-time cost.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE ports
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports third-party drives (from major brands)
- Backup & Data Security Features:Automatic backups, AI image recognition, data security
- CPU Type:High-performance processor (not specified)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Supports remote access, mobile app, automatic backups
- Additional Feature:AI photo recognition
- Additional Feature:120TB capacity
- Additional Feature:Supports 4K HDMI output
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Network Storage
If you’re looking for a high-performance NAS that handles large multimedia libraries and multitasking with ease, the TERRAMASTER F4-425 is an excellent choice. Powered by an Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM, it excels at 4K transcoding and multi-user access. The device features a 2.5GbE LAN port for ultra-fast transfers and operates quietly at just 21dB(A). With tool-free, push-lock HDD trays, installing drives takes about 10 seconds. Supporting up to 120TB and flexible RAID options, it provides ample storage and data redundancy. Its multimedia capabilities, mobile app control, and seamless cloud sync make it a versatile, reliable storage solution for home and professional use.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5GbE port
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports drives from Western Digital, Seagate, Toshiba
- Backup & Data Security Features:Backup suite, snapshot, RAID options, cross-platform sync
- CPU Type:Intel x86 quad-core
- Mobile & Remote Access:Mobile app control, remote sync, easy setup
- Additional Feature:4-bay, 120TB max
- Additional Feature:Quiet operation (21dB)
- Additional Feature:Multi-platform sync (CloudSync)
Yxk Zero1 4-Bay NAS with HDMI and Dual 2.5GbE
The Yxk Zero1 4-Bay NAS stands out as an ideal choice for home users who want seamless media streaming and reliable data access. Its quad-core CPU and user-friendly interface make setup straightforward, while support for dual 2.5GbE ports ensures fast, stable network connectivity. With HDMI output, you can easily stream media directly to a TV or monitor. Being diskless, it offers flexible storage expansion tailored to your needs. Advanced security features like RAID redundancy, automated backups, and real-time health monitoring protect your data. Overall, the Zero1 Pro combines performance and versatility, making it a compelling option for anyone seeking a reliable, expandable home NAS.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE ports
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports drives from multiple brands; compatible list
- Backup & Data Security Features:RAID redundancy, snapshot recovery, encryption
- CPU Type:Quad-core CPU
- Mobile & Remote Access:Mobile app, remote access, QR setup
- Additional Feature:HDMI output included
- Additional Feature:100% data ownership
- Additional Feature:QR code setup
TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS Storage 4-Bay (Diskless)
Designed for demanding users seeking reliable, high-speed storage, the TERRAMASTER F4-424 NAS offers impressive performance with its powerful quad-core CPU and dual 2.5GbE ports. It features an 8GB DDR5 RAM, upgradeable to 32GB, and dual M.2 NVMe slots for fast SSD caching. This diskless 4-bay enclosure delivers a 140% performance boost over previous models, with quicker application loads and faster data retrieval. The NAS supports multiple RAID configurations, quick tool-free disk installation, and secure backup options. Its quiet, durable design makes it ideal for both professional and home environments, ensuring efficient, scalable data sharing.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE ports
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports drives on official compatibility list
- Backup & Data Security Features:Backup solutions, snapshots, data protection
- CPU Type:Not specified (Intel/NVMe performance implied)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Mobile management, remote backup options
- Additional Feature:Dual M.2 NVMe slots
- Additional Feature:Shock-absorbing design
- Additional Feature:140% performance boost
ORICO 4-Bay RAID Hard Drive Enclosure 88TB
For professionals and small businesses needing reliable, high-capacity data storage, the ORICO 4-Bay RAID Hard Drive Enclosure offers an excellent solution. Supporting up to 88TB with 3.5-inch SATA disks, it provides flexible RAID modes—including RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and more—tailored to your security and backup needs. Its USB 3.0 interface delivers transfer speeds up to 235 MB/s, compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. Constructed from durable aluminum with an efficient cooling fan, it ensures stable operation. The trayless design and safety lock make disk management quick and secure, making it ideal for demanding data-sharing environments.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:1 x 150W power, Ethernet ports not specified
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports SATA drives (3.5-inch, HDDs)
- Backup & Data Security Features:RAID support, data encryption, secure backup options
- CPU Type:Not specified (industrial-grade hardware)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Supports remote access, mobile app
- Additional Feature:Supports 88TB capacity
- Additional Feature:Trayless design
- Additional Feature:Independent safety lock
BUFFALO 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Drives Included
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-capacity NAS solution out of the box, the BUFFALO 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 16TB of included drives is an excellent choice. It comes pre-configured with four 4TB drives, offering 12TB of usable storage in RAID 5. You can easily switch to RAID 6 for extra redundancy or RAID 0 for maximum capacity. Built for secure data management, it features 256-bit encryption, flexible backup options, and a 3-year warranty. The device’s native 2.5GbE port guarantees fast data transfers, making it perfect for both professional and personal use. Plus, cloud sync support adds scalable, hybrid storage options.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, pre-installed drives included (RAID)
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5GbE port
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Pre-installed drives (4 x 4TB)
- Backup & Data Security Features:RAID 5 with included drives, data encryption
- CPU Type:Not specified
- Mobile & Remote Access:App-based management, remote access
- Additional Feature:Pre-installed drives included
- Additional Feature:256-bit drive encryption
- Additional Feature:Supports hybrid cloud
UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium CPU
The UGREEN 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium CPU stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and power users who need high performance and reliable storage. It’s powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 8505 5-core processor, 8GB DDR5 RAM, and a 128GB SSD system drive, ensuring fast, smooth operation. With a 10GbE port and 2.5GbE port, it delivers impressive transfer speeds, making backups and multimedia streaming effortless. Its flexible design supports third-party drives, offers up to 136TB capacity, and features advanced encryption for security. The device also includes AI-powered photo organization and easy-to-use apps for seamless access across devices, making it a versatile storage solution.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:1 x 10GbE port + 1 x 2.5GbE port
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports third-party drives (from brands like WD, Seagate)
- Backup & Data Security Features:Automatic backups, encryption, remote access
- CPU Type:Intel Pentium Gold 8505
- Mobile & Remote Access:Mobile app, remote control, automatic backup
- Additional Feature:AI photo album
- Additional Feature:10GbE high-speed port
- Additional Feature:136TB storage capacity
TERRAMASTER F4 SSD NAS Storage (Diskless)
Designed for small businesses and home users seeking professional-grade storage, the TERRAMASTER F4 SSD NAS Storage stands out with its powerful quad-core processor and ultra-fast 5Gbps Ethernet port. It supports four M.2 NVMe SSDs, each up to 8TB, offering a total of 32TB capacity in a compact, palm-sized design. Its quiet operation, thanks to advanced cooling and silent fans, guarantees minimal noise even under heavy loads. The tool-free setup makes installation quick and simple. Paired with TerraMaster’s backup suite, it delivers reliable, high-performance data management and protection, making it an excellent choice for users demanding speed, stability, and ease of use.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:1 x 5GbE port (via 10GbE support)
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports NVMe SSDs (for M.2 slots) and SATA drives
- Backup & Data Security Features:Backup tools, snapshot, data security features
- CPU Type:Quad-core 3.4GHz (N95)
- Mobile & Remote Access:Mobile app, remote access, easy setup
- Additional Feature:Ultra-compact size
- Additional Feature:Whisper-quiet operation
- Additional Feature:Supports NVMe SSDs
QNAP TS-464-8G-US Desktop NAS with Dual 2.5GbE
For anyone seeking a high-performance desktop NAS that balances speed and expandability, the QNAP TS-464-8G-US with dual 2.5GbE ports offers a robust solution. Powered by Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processors, it reaches burst speeds up to 2.9 GHz, ensuring fast data handling. With 8GB DDR4 RAM and dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots, you can accelerate performance or expand storage easily. Its dual 2.5GbE ports enable quick file sharing and large transfers across networks. Plus, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports facilitate seamless device connections. Designed for centralized storage, it’s perfect for homes or small offices needing reliable, fast, and expandable data management.
- Storage Bays:4-bay, diskless
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE ports
- Compatibility/Drive Support:Supports 3.5-inch SATA disks (up to 88TB total)
- Backup & Data Security Features:Backups for Windows/Mac, encryption, remote access
- CPU Type:Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core
- Mobile & Remote Access:Cloud access, remote management via app
- Additional Feature:Dual M.2 NVMe slots
- Additional Feature:2.9 GHz burst speed
- Additional Feature:Supports remote access
Factors to Consider When Choosing Network Attached Storage 4 Bay
When selecting a 4-bay NAS, I focus on several key factors to guarantee it meets my needs. I consider storage capacity, performance, security, compatibility, and user interface to find the best fit. Understanding these points helps me make a confident and informed choice.
Storage Capacity Needs
Determining the right storage capacity for a 4-bay NAS starts with understanding your current and future data needs. I assess how much data I need to store now and estimate growth over time to avoid frequent upgrades. I also consider the maximum supported capacity of each drive and how many drives I plan to install, guaranteeing they meet my requirements. Redundancy is essential, so I evaluate RAID options that protect my data but may reduce overall usable space. I think about additional needs like media libraries, backups, or multiple users sharing files simultaneously. Some NAS models offer expansion options with external drives or units, which can help me grow my storage as my data needs increase. This approach guarantees I select a capacity that’s both sufficient and scalable.
Performance and Speed
Choosing a 4-bay NAS that meets my performance needs means paying close attention to its speed capabilities. I look for models with high-speed Ethernet ports like 2.5GbE or 10GbE to guarantee quick data transfers. Supporting hardware-accelerated 4K transcoding is a must for smooth media streaming without lag. I also check the read/write throughput, aiming for speeds above 200 MB/s for efficient large file transfers. SSD cache support is another key feature, as it markedly boosts access speeds and reduces latency. Ultimately, I ensure the processor and RAM are robust enough to handle multitasking and multiple simultaneous data accesses without bottlenecks. These factors help me choose a NAS that delivers reliable performance for all my data-sharing needs.
Security Features
Have you ever considered how essential security features are when selecting a 4-bay NAS? These features protect your data from loss, theft, and malware. RAID configurations, encryption, and snapshot technology help guarantee data integrity and quick recovery if needed. Support for multi-factor authentication and user permissions restricts access to sensitive files, keeping unauthorized users out. Automatic backup options and remote wipe capabilities provide additional layers of security, allowing quick responses to breaches. Hardware-based security measures like secure boot, TPM modules, and encrypted drives guard against physical tampering. Regular firmware updates and security patches are crucial for addressing vulnerabilities and maintaining system integrity. Prioritizing these security features guarantees your data remains safe, private, and protected against evolving threats.
Compatibility and Expandability
When selecting a 4-bay NAS, ensuring compatibility and expandability can save you headaches down the line. I always check that the NAS supports the specific hard drives and SSDs I plan to use, referring to manufacturer compatibility lists. It’s important to choose a model with multiple drive bays and support for various RAID configurations—this allows for future expansion and data redundancy. I also look for devices with additional expansion ports like eSATA or USB, so I can connect external drives or expansion units as needed. Hot-swappable drives and easy drive replacement are must-haves, making maintenance straightforward without system downtime. Finally, I verify that the firmware or software supports upgrades for RAM, network interfaces, or storage modules, ensuring my NAS stays future-proof.
User Interface Ease
A user-friendly interface is essential when selecting a 4-bay NAS, as it determines how easily I can set up and manage the device. An intuitive layout makes the initial setup straightforward and simplifies ongoing management, even for those with limited technical skills. Clear navigation menus and simple icons help me quickly find and adjust key features without frustration. Responsive design is vital, allowing smooth operation on desktops, tablets, and smartphones for remote access. Built-in setup wizards guide me step-by-step through installation, reducing the need for external support. Additionally, user-friendly dashboards display system status, storage usage, and alerts in an organized way, making it easier to monitor and maintain the device efficiently. Overall, a well-designed interface enhances my experience and confidence in managing the NAS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which NAS Devices Offer the Best Energy Efficiency?
If you’re looking for the most energy-efficient NAS devices, I recommend checking out models with low-power processors and energy-saving features. I personally like Synology’s DiskStation series, especially those with ARM-based CPUs, as they consume less power during idle and active states. Additionally, devices with automatic sleep modes and efficient cooling systems help reduce energy use, making them eco-friendly choices for reliable data sharing while keeping your electricity bills in check.
How Does RAID Configuration Impact Data Protection?
RAID configuration greatly impacts data protection by determining how your data is stored and safeguarded. I usually prefer RAID 5 or RAID 6 because they offer a good balance of redundancy and storage efficiency, protecting against single or even multiple drive failures. With RAID, I feel more confident that my data stays safe, even if a drive fails, giving me peace of mind and reliable access at all times.
Are There Specific Models Optimized for Media Streaming?
Yes, I’ve found that models like Synology DS920+ and QNAP TS-464 are optimized for media streaming. They come with powerful processors, ample RAM, and multimedia apps that make streaming smooth across devices. Their hardware acceleration and support for 4K transcoding guarantee I can enjoy high-quality videos without buffering. If you’re into media sharing, these NAS units are reliable choices that handle multiple streams effortlessly.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a 4-Bay NAS Device?
A 4-bay NAS device typically lasts around 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. I’ve found that regular firmware updates, proper cooling, and replacing drives when they show signs of failure can extend its lifespan. Proper care and avoiding constant heavy loads help guarantee your device stays reliable longer. I recommend planning for upgrades or replacements every few years to keep your data safe and accessible.
Can These NAS Devices Support Virtualization Environments?
Yes, many 4-bay NAS devices support virtualization environments. I’ve found that high-end models often feature virtualization station apps or hypervisor support, allowing me to run virtual machines directly on the device. This makes it easy to host multiple OSes or test environments without extra hardware. Just make certain the NAS you choose has sufficient RAM, CPU power, and compatible software to handle the virtualization workload smoothly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS is like selecting a trusted lighthouse amidst a stormy sea. It guides your data safely home, offering clarity and confidence in every connection. Whether you need rugged durability or sleek speed, the perfect device illuminates your path. Remember, it’s not just about storage; it’s about peace of mind, knowing your digital voyage is protected by a steadfast beacon. Stay steady, choose wisely, and let your data shine bright.
