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In this guide
Choosing the right 4 Bay NAS can transform how you manage data at home or in a small office. These devices offer centralized storage, automatic backups, and media streaming capabilities all in one compact unit designed for reliability and ease of use.
We evaluated ten leading models based on performance, software features, expandability, and user experience. Each unit was reviewed for its processor power, memory capacity, network ports, and the ecosystem of apps available for managing files and protecting your valuable data.
Our picks highlight the strengths of each device so you can find the perfect fit for your workflow. Remember that hardware evolves quickly so always check current specifications and availability before making your final decision on a network storage solution.
Top 3 Picks for Best 4 Bay NAS
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Top 10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026 Compared
The following comparison highlights the key specifications and strengths of each 4 Bay NAS model to help you make an informed decision based on your specific storage and performance requirements.
1. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT – Best Overall 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT stands out as a top performer with its AMD Ryzen processor and dual 10GbE networking. It delivers excellent speed for media editing and file transfers making it ideal for power users who need reliable performance without compromise.
Pros
- Fast network speeds
- Expandable memory
- Built-in surveillance
- Great app ecosystem
- Flexible storage options
Cons
- Plex needs manual setup
- Requires ECC RAM upgrade
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Its UGOS Pro software simplifies management with a clean interface and supports Docker apps virtual machines and SAN Manager. You can build a comprehensive home lab or office server with ease while maintaining local control over your data and privacy.
While the built-in RAM is non-ECC the system supports upgrades for error correction during long operations. Plex requires manual setup via Docker which may add steps for casual users but experienced ones will appreciate the flexibility and control this provides.
This NAS is best suited for creators and tech enthusiasts needing robust multitasking and high-speed data access. Its combination of hardware power software flexibility and surveillance features makes it a versatile choice for demanding workflows.
High-Performance Multitasking
Powered by AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 with up to 3.70GHz speed it handles backups media processing and multi-user workloads smoothly.
Surveillance Center Built-In
Connect compatible IP cameras and use NAS as both storage and control center with live multi-view PTZ control and event detection.
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2. Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 – Best Budget 4 Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 offers an accessible entry point into 4 Bay NAS systems with its affordable price and solid 2.5GbE connectivity. It handles daily storage needs backups and media streaming effectively for users seeking value without sacrificing essential features.
Pros
- Affordable price
- 4K media support
- Easy remote access
- Low power use
- Btrfs protection
Cons
- Only 1GB RAM
- Basic multitasking
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Its Realtek RTD1619B processor and 1GB RAM manage automated backups and file tasks efficiently while consuming minimal power. Btrfs snapshots and WORM technology provide enterprise-grade data protection against ransomware and accidental deletion keeping your files safe.
The limited RAM may hinder heavy multitasking or advanced virtualization tasks. However for general home storage and media serving the performance is more than adequate for smooth playback and reliable file sharing across your network.
This NAS is ideal for budget-conscious home users or small offices needing secure and simple cloud-like access. Its 4K media center capabilities and personal cloud features make it a practical choice for everyday file management and entertainment.
Optimized Quad-Core Performance
Equipped with Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core for smooth multitasking and efficient daily storage management with low power use.
Enterprise-Grade Data Protection
Protect against ransomware with Btrfs snapshots and WORM technology ensuring your critical documents remain immutable and safe.
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3. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro – Best Premium 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro brings pro-performance to home and office users with its Intel Core i3 processor and DDR5 RAM. It serves as a versatile private workstation delivering smooth multitasking for virtual machines Docker containers and development environments.
Pros
- High-end processor
- Fast DDR5 memory
- Dual high-speed ports
- Advanced security
- Massive storage
Cons
- Higher cost
- Advanced setup
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Its dual high-speed network ports enable blazing-fast data transfers up to 1.25GB/s ensuring quick access to large media files. The UGOS Pro system integrates media center photo management cloud sync and downloads into a unified all-in-one experience.
While priced higher the advanced hardware and security features justify the cost for IT professionals. Local AI photo processing and granular permissions protect privacy while supporting massive libraries and complex workflows efficiently.
This model is perfect for developers and power users needing serious performance and enterprise-grade data security. Its flexibility and speed make it a robust investment for growing teams and demanding personal projects.
Pro-Grade Core Hardware
Features Intel Core i3-1315U with 6 Cores 8 Threads up to 4.5GHz Turbo paired with 8GB DDR5 RAM expandable to 96GB.
Ultimate Flexibility with Docker and VMs
Comprehensive support for Docker and VMs unlocks endless possibilities to run personal websites smart home hubs or private dev environments.
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4. TERRAMASTER F4-425 – Best Value 4 Bay NAS
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers powerful performance at an accessible price with its Intel x86 quad-core CPU and 4GB RAM. It handles 4K transcoding and multitasking effortlessly ensuring smooth HD video playback via Plex or Jellyfin for home media enthusiasts.
Pros
- 4K transcoding
- Tool-free installation
- AI smart album
- Silent operation
- Flexible arrays
Cons
- Limited user accounts
- Basic media apps
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Its tool-free Push-Lock design lets you install hard drives in seconds making setup quick and easy for any user. The ultra-quiet 21dB operation fits perfectly in bedrooms or living rooms without causing noise distractions during daily use.
While it supports multiple user accounts and flexible TRAID arrays the feature set is more streamlined than premium models. Still the reliable data redundancy and seamless cross-platform sync via CloudSync make it a solid choice for basic storage and backup.
This NAS is best for home users wanting a quiet reliable and simple system for photos and media. Its easy setup and AI photo organization provide great value for those prioritizing usability over complex server capabilities.
Home Multimedia Hub
Supports hardware-level 4K H.265 decoding compatible with Plex Emby and Jellyfin for smooth HD video playback with DLNA streaming.
Ultra-Quiet & User-Friendly
Operates at just 21dB(A) with tool-free Push-Lock design HDD trays enabling fast drive installation in 10 seconds.
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5. UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus – Best for Home Use 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus is designed for beginners and families needing private storage with simple setup via NFC and user-friendly apps. It supports Docker for apps but not virtual machines making it ideal for home media and remote work files.
Pros
- AI photo album
- Easy setup
- NFC connection
- Docker support
- Private cloud
Cons
- No virtual machines
- Wired only
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Its AI photo backup organizes family memories automatically with semantic search and duplicate removal keeping your library tidy. The 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 2.5GbE port ensure smooth app performance and fast file transfers across your devices.
While lacking VM support this NAS excels as a cost-effective alternative to cloud subscriptions saving significant money over time. Its TRUSTe certified encryption ensures your data remains secure and private without third-party cloud access.
This model is perfect for families wanting an intuitive private cloud solution for photos and documents. Its magnetic dust cover and reliable performance make it a welcoming choice for users new to network attached storage.
Smart Photo Backup & AI Album
Automatically back up photos and videos from phone in real time with AI-powered albums recognizing faces scenes objects and pets.
More Cost-effective Storage Solution
Unlike cloud with recurring fees NAS requires only one-time purchase saving thousands over ten years compared to 12TB cloud plans.
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6. Synology DS425+ – Best for Teams 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS425+ is built for team productivity with its ability to support concurrent access from 10+ users at 278 MB/s speeds. It offers granular access controls and audit logs for secure file sharing and centralized document management.
Pros
- Fast file sharing
- Granular controls
- Audit logs
- 3-Year warranty
- Surveillance ready
Cons
- Premium price
- Limited ports
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Its multi-layered data protection combines RAID redundancy automated backups and snapshot technology to prevent loss from any cause. This makes it ideal for small businesses needing reliable data security and professional file server capabilities.
While priced higher the dedicated technical account management and 3-year warranty provide peace of mind for critical environments. The surveillance system supports up to 30 IP cameras enhancing its utility for complete office security solutions.
This NAS is perfect for office teams prioritizing security and collaboration. Its robust software and support make it a dependable choice for businesses needing secure file sharing and comprehensive data protection.
Team Productivity & Media Hub
Share large files and stream media across your office with 278 MB/s speeds supporting concurrent access from 10+ users.
Professional Surveillance System
Monitor home or business with support for 30 IP cameras motion detection and secure remote access.
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7. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus – Best for Creators 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus offers high-performance storage for creators with 10GbE network and USB ports enabling backups of 1GB in under a second. It works seamlessly across Windows macOS Linux and mobile devices supporting a wide range of RAID options.
Pros
- Fast USB and Net
- Docker support
- Simple app
- Large storage
- Secure encryption
Cons
- Manual Plex setup
- Wired only
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Its AI-powered photo album organizes images by faces scenes objects and locations while removing duplicates to save space. Docker support allows running Plex and virtual machines making it versatile for media hosting and custom workflows.
Plex requires manual setup via Docker which adds a step for media users. However the strong encryption and flexible permissions ensure your private data remains secure during collaboration and remote access.
This NAS is ideal for families and small teams needing reliable centralized storage and fast file access. Its user-friendly design and extensive compatibility make it a practical solution for growing media collections and work projects.
High-Performance NAS with Powerful Processor
DXP4800 Plus is ideal for small offices and more enjoying smooth performance and seamless collaboration with Docker and virtual machines.
Super-Fast Transfers
Back up 1GB in less than a second using either the 10GbE network port or the 10Gbps USB ports.
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8. Synology DS925+ – Best for Reliability 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS925+ delivers stable data transfers with up to 522/565 MB/s throughput and dual 2.5GbE ports for redundancy. It supports official compatibility lists for drives ensuring reliable performance and long-term system stability.
Pros
- Stable throughput
- Network redundancy
- File management
- Virtualization
- Support warranty
Cons
- No HDMI
- Basic OS
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Built-in file and photo management data protection virtualization and surveillance solutions make it a complete package. The 3-year limited hardware warranty and Synology support back its reliability for consistent daily use.
Without HDMI output and advanced AI features it focuses on core storage and security tasks. Its dual network ports allow link aggregation for higher bandwidth suitable for small office environments needing consistent access.
This NAS is best for users valuing proven stability and simple robust backups. Its comprehensive suite of integrated tools ensures your data is protected and accessible without requiring complex configurations.
Up to 522/565 MB/s Sequential
Up to 522/565 MB/s sequential read/write throughput supports stable data transfers for reliable file access.
Dual 2.5GbE Ports
Dual 2.5GbE ports provide fast network transfer speeds and increased redundancy for network resilience.
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9. Yxk Zero1 Pro – Best for Home Media 4 Bay NAS
The Yxk Zero1 Pro is beginner-friendly with guided mobile app setup and 4K HDMI output for direct connection to TVs. Its Intel N100 processor handles everyday tasks well offering flexibility with Docker apps and third-party OS installs.
Pros
- 4K HDMI
- Beginner-friendly
- Docker apps
- Great cooling
- Third-party OS
Cons
- No built-in AI
- Limited docs
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Aluminum housing and dual-fan cooling ensure efficient heat dissipation supporting tasks like overnight backups and large transfers. Two M.2 NVMe slots and four SATA bays provide up to 144TB of combined raw capacity for massive storage needs.
Lack of native AI photo tools means manual organization but you can use community apps via Docker. The flexibility to install Unraid or TrueNAS appeals to experienced users wanting custom operating environments.
This NAS is perfect for home theater enthusiasts and families needing simple storage and media streaming. Its physical design and performance balance make it a compelling choice for living room integration and file backups.
Beginner-Friendly Home NAS Setup
Install compatible drives connect the Zero1 Pro to network and follow mobile app guided steps to register sign in and get started.
Shared Media and 4K HDMI
Dual 2.5GbE ports support link aggregation helping multiple household members access shared media library and files.
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10. Synology DS423 – Best for Privacy 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS423 focuses on secure private cloud access with comprehensive data protection through snapshots and multi-destination backups. It serves as a file server replacing expensive SharePoint or Dropbox with local sharing and permission control.
Pros
- Immutable snapshots
- Secure sharing
- File server
- 30 cameras
- 2-Year warranty
Cons
- Basic hardware
- Needs licenses
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Ransomware-resistant features include immutable snapshots and versioned files ensuring your data remains safe from malware attacks. Its versatile video surveillance system archives and analyzes footage for up to 30 IP cameras for home or business security.
Camera licenses must be purchased separately and hardware is basic compared to newer models. But for reliable backup and file management with strong privacy guarantees it delivers consistent value.
This NAS is ideal for households and small businesses prioritizing data security and privacy. Its robust protection features and easy file sharing make it a trusted choice for safe local storage.
Secure private cloud
Safely access and share files and media from anywhere and keep friends partners or collaborators on the same page.
Ransomware-Resistant Backup
Protect against malware with immutable snapshots versioned files and multi-destination backup strategies.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 4 Bay NAS
Selecting the right 4 Bay NAS involves balancing performance capacity and features to match your needs.
Processor Power
A strong processor ensures smooth multitasking media transcoding and application performance. Look for quad-core Intel or AMD chips for demanding workflows.
Prioritize higher core counts if you plan to run multiple services like Docker or virtual machines.
Memory Capacity
RAM determines how many apps and users the NAS can handle simultaneously. Aim for at least 4GB for general use and 8GB or more for heavy tasks.
Check if the RAM is expandable to future-proof your investment as needs grow.
Network Ports
Faster Ethernet like 2.5GbE or 10GbE greatly improves file transfer speeds. Dual ports offer redundancy and link aggregation for better performance.
Ensure your router supports these speeds to fully utilize the hardware potential.
Software Ecosystem
Quality software provides features like photo management backups and surveillance. Check for Docker support if you want custom applications and virtualization.
User-friendly interfaces and mobile apps make daily management easier for all users.
Expandability
Consider M.2 SSD slots for caching or additional storage. Support for high-capacity drives allows you to grow storage over time.
Choose models with room for upgrades if you expect data growth.
Data Security
Look for RAID support encryption and snapshot features to protect against data loss. Security features like WORM or ransomware protection add extra safety.
Ensure the system includes regular security updates for ongoing protection.
Noise and Design
If placed in living areas consider noise levels and physical design. Quiet operation and tool-free drive access improve usability.
Select a model with efficient cooling to maintain performance during long runs.
Warranty Support
A longer warranty and responsive support team ensure peace of mind. Check the terms for hardware defects and software updates.
Prioritize brands with proven reliability and customer service reputation.
How to Use and Care for Your 4 Bay NAS
Start by installing compatible hard drives according to the manufacturer instructions and connect the NAS to your network. Follow the guided setup app to initialize storage and create user accounts.
Regularly update the NAS firmware and installed apps to ensure security and new features. Use automated backups to protect your important data on external drives or cloud services.
Maintain proper ventilation around the unit and clean dust filters periodically to prevent overheating. Monitor drive health and storage usage via the management interface to avoid unexpected failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy hard drives separately?
Yes most 4 Bay NAS units are sold diskless meaning you must purchase compatible hard drives or SSDs separately. Check the compatibility list for recommended drives before buying to ensure optimal performance.
Can I access my NAS remotely without a subscription?
Most models allow remote access through free built-in apps and services. Some offer optional cloud syncing but you can access files directly over the internet without monthly fees.
What is the difference between RAID 0 and RAID 5?
RAID 0 offers maximum speed but no data redundancy while RAID 5 provides fault tolerance with one drive failure protection. Choose RAID 5 for safety or RAID 0 for performance.
Do all NAS support Docker applications?
Not all entry-level models support Docker. Check the product details for Docker support if you want to run custom apps like Plex or Home Assistant on your NAS.
How many users can connect at once?
Depends on the NAS model and hardware. Some support 10+ concurrent users while others are optimized for small families. Review specifications for user capacity limits.
Can I use my NAS as a media server?
Yes most 4 Bay NAS devices support media streaming via built-in apps or Docker containers like Plex and Jellyfin for 4K video playback on TVs and phones.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 4 Bay NAS
We've reviewed ten top 4 Bay NAS options from entry-level to premium models each offering unique strengths for different users. The UGREEN DXP4800 GT leads for performance and flexibility while the Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 offers great value.
Prioritize processor power network speed and software features that match your specific workflows. Whether you need secure file sharing media streaming or data protection the right NAS makes storage simple and efficient.
Hardware availability and prices change so verify current specs before purchasing. Use this guide to find the perfect 4 Bay NAS that meets your needs today and grows with your future.