10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026

Network attached storage solutions have become essential for modern digital lifestyles, offering centralized data management and secure file access across multiple devices. A 4 Bay NAS provides the perfect balance of expandability and performance for home users, creative professionals, and small businesses seeking reliable private cloud capabilities.

Our team analyzed ten leading 4 Bay NAS models based on processing power, network connectivity, software ecosystems, and storage scalability. We evaluated real-world performance metrics, user interface intuitiveness, and long-term reliability to determine which units deliver the most value for different use cases and budgets.

Each selection in this guide highlights specific strengths ranging from budget-friendly entry points to premium performance hubs. Prices and availability fluctuate frequently, so we recommend verifying current listings before purchase to ensure you secure the best deal for your specific storage requirements.

Top 3 Picks for Best 4 Bay NAS

Top 10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026 Compared

The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten selected 4 Bay NAS models, highlighting their key specifications, performance capabilities, and unique features to help you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

1. Synology DS425+ Best Overall 4 Bay NAS

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS425+

High-speed file transfers

Granular access controls

Supports 30 IP cameras

3-Year warranty included

The Synology DS425+ stands out as the top choice for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich 4 Bay NAS solution. With a 4.6-star rating and support for over ten concurrent users, it excels in team productivity and media streaming scenarios where speed and stability are paramount.

Pros

• Exceptional software ecosystem
• High transfer speeds
• Strong data protection
• Professional support available
• User-friendly interface

Cons

• Premium pricing point
• Requires separate hard drives

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Its standout capability lies in the comprehensive software suite that includes centralized repository features with granular access controls and audit logs. The multi-layered data protection combines RAID redundancy with automated backups and snapshot technology, ensuring your critical documents and media assets remain safe from accidental deletion or system failures.

While the unit commands a higher price point compared to budget alternatives, the included three-year warranty and enterprise support options justify the investment for business-critical environments. Users should note that hard drives are not included, requiring separate purchase to activate full storage capacity.

This NAS is ideal for small businesses, creative teams, or power users who need robust file sharing, media streaming, and surveillance capabilities in one unified device. If you prioritize software maturity and data security over initial cost, the DS425+ delivers unmatched value and performance.

Enhanced Team Collaboration

The DS425+ enables seamless file sharing with speeds up to 278 MB/s, allowing multiple team members to access large documents and media assets without lag or bottleneck issues.

Comprehensive Surveillance Support

Monitor your home or business with built-in support for up to 30 IP cameras, featuring motion detection and secure remote access to keep your property under constant watch.

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2. UGREEN DXP4800 Pro Best Premium 4 Bay NAS

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN DXP4800 Pro

Intel Core i3-1315U

Expandable DDR5 RAM

Dual 10GbE networking

Enterprise-grade security

The UGREEN DXP4800 Pro is engineered for demanding workflows, offering a professional-grade private workstation experience within a 4 Bay NAS form factor. Its Intel Core i3-1315U processor and expandable DDR5 RAM make it a top-tier choice for IT professionals, developers, and power users requiring significant virtualization capabilities.

Pros

• Exceptional processing power
• High-speed network ports
• Expandable to 96GB RAM
• Advanced virtualization support
• Local AI photo organization

Cons

• Higher price bracket
• Complex for beginners

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This model distinguishes itself with dual high-speed network ports including 10GbE and 2.5GbE, enabling transfer speeds up to 1.25GB/s for rapid file handling. The support for Docker and Virtual Machines unlocks endless possibilities for running personal websites, smart home hubs, or private development environments directly on the storage system.

Data security is handled with enterprise-grade rigor, featuring granular user permissions for up to 2048 accounts and a Data Vault for hiding and encrypting sensitive files. The local AI-powered photo album recognizes faces and scenes without cloud dependency, ensuring privacy while managing massive image libraries efficiently.

Buyers should be prepared for a premium investment and a learning curve associated with advanced features. However, for those needing serious performance, flexibility, and privacy in a single device, the DXP4800 Pro delivers a versatile and powerful storage solution.

Powerful Virtualization

With 8 cores, 8 threads, and expandable RAM, this NAS handles multiple virtual machines and containers smoothly, making it a versatile workstation for complex tasks.

Future-Proof Connectivity

Dual high-speed network ports ensure your setup remains relevant as network speeds increase, supporting blazing-fast transfers for large video files and databases.

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3. Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 Best Budget 4 Bay NAS

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2

Realtek Quad-Core CPU

2.5GbE network upgrade

Btrfs snapshot protection

4K media streaming

The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T offers an excellent entry point for users seeking a 4 Bay NAS without breaking the bank. With a Realtek Quad-Core processor and 2.5GbE network port, it delivers solid performance for daily storage needs, media streaming, and automated backups at a competitive price.

Pros

• Affordable entry price
• High-speed network port
• Ransomware protection
• Easy remote access
• Low power consumption

Cons

• Lower RAM capacity
• Basic software features

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Key strengths include Enterprise-Grade Data Protection with Btrfs snapshots that allow instant data restoration to a previous point in time. The WORM (Write Once, Read Many) technology ensures critical documents and family memories remain immutable and safe from ransomware or accidental deletion.

While the 1GB DDR4 RAM may limit heavy multitasking compared to higher-end models, it efficiently handles essential storage tasks with lower power consumption. The system supports 4K media streaming and creates a personal cloud for secure remote access without relying on third-party services.

This unit is perfect for home users and small offices looking for cost-effective storage expansion and basic remote access. If your priorities are budget, reliability, and essential cloud features rather than advanced virtualization, the Drivestor 4 Gen 2 is a smart choice.

Advanced Data Protection

Btrfs snapshots and WORM technology provide robust safeguards against data loss, allowing you to restore files instantly to a safe state before any corruption occurs.

Enhanced Network Speeds

The 2.5GbE port offers significantly faster file transfers compared to standard Gigabit systems, improving backup times and media streaming performance across your network.

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4. TERRAMASTER F4-425 Fast 4 Bay NAS

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

TERRAMASTER F4-425

Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU

4GB RAM

2.5GbE port

Hardware 4K decoding

The TERRAMASTER F4-425 delivers powerful performance in a quiet and user-friendly package, making it suitable for home multimedia hubs. Equipped with an Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM, it handles 4K transcoding and multitasking efficiently, while the 2.5GbE port ensures ultra-fast file transfers.

Pros

• Fast file transfers
• 4K transcoding support
• Quiet operation
• Tool-free drive installation
• CloudSync compatibility

Cons

• Basic mobile app
• Limited user accounts

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Its multimedia capabilities shine with hardware-level 4K H.265 decoding, compatible with Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin for smooth video playback. The Photos app features AI smart album organization, helping users manage millions of photos efficiently while DLNA supports seamless multi-device streaming.

The device operates at just 21dB(A), making it quiet enough for bedrooms or living rooms. Tool-free Push-Lock design HDD trays allow installation in 10 seconds, and the system supports up to 120TB storage with flexible TRAID arrays ensuring data redundancy.

Ideal for home users wanting a dedicated media server without excessive noise, the F4-425 balances performance and usability. While the mobile app is functional, power users might find the software ecosystem less extensive than competitors, but it remains a strong value for media streaming.

Silent Operation

With noise levels as low as 21dB(A), this NAS runs quietly enough to blend into any home environment without disrupting movies or conversations.

Flexible Storage Arrays

TRAID and TRAID+ arrays offer 30% more storage space than traditional RAID while maintaining data redundancy, maximizing capacity without sacrificing safety.

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5. UGREEN DXP4800 GT Powerful 4 Bay NAS

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN DXP4800 GT

AMD Ryzen R2514

Dual 10GbE networking

144TB storage capacity

Local privacy security

The UGREEN DXP4800 GT is a high-performance 4 Bay NAS designed for creators, tech enthusiasts, and office teams needing speed and endurance. Powered by an AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM, it handles backups, media processing, and Docker apps smoothly with dual 10GbE networking.

Pros

• High multitasking performance
• 10GbE networking
• Surveillance Center built-in
• USB and SD instant backup
• Expandable to 64GB RAM

Cons

• Requires ECC RAM for errors
• Manual Plex setup

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Key features include UGOS Pro with a clean interface and guided setup, supporting Docker, virtual machines, and SAN Manager. The Surveillance Center allows connection of compatible IP cameras for home or small-business security, keeping footage stored locally without cloud subscriptions.

USB and SD instant backup options simplify workflows for creators who need to import photos and videos directly without external card readers. Local privacy and pro-grade security with TLS/SSL and AES encryption ensure your data remains safe from unauthorized access.

This NAS is an excellent choice for those needing local-like 4K/8K editing capabilities and robust security. While Plex requires manual setup via Docker, the flexibility and performance make it a compelling option for power users and creative professionals.

Professional Security Hub

Connect up to multiple IP cameras and manage recording, PTZ control, and event detection from one platform, ensuring local storage of footage without cloud costs.

Rapid File Imports

The built-in SD card slot and USB ports allow quick transfer of camera footage and media assets, saving time for creators on tight deadlines.

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6. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus Efficient 4 Bay NAS

4.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN DXP4800 Plus

High-performance processor

10GbE network port

AI-powered photo album

144TB capacity

The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is ideal for small offices, families, and creators seeking centralized storage with advanced features like Docker and virtual machines. It offers smooth performance and seamless collaboration across devices, with support for up to 144TB capacity to store millions of files or movies.

Pros

• Seamless collaboration
• Fast transfers
• AI photo organization
• Wide OS compatibility
• Flexible permissions

Cons

• No Wi-Fi support
• Manual Plex setup

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Super-fast transfers allow backing up 1GB in less than a second via the 10GbE network port or USB ports. The Secure Private Cloud retains 100% data ownership with advanced encryption and flexible permission management, ensuring privacy when collaborating with others.

AI-Powered Photo Album automatically organizes photos by recognizing faces and scenes, and it can remove duplicates to free up space. The user-friendly app simplifies setup and file-sharing across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and smart TVs for secure access from any device.

This unit suits those who want centralized storage with smart photo management and strong encryption. While it lacks Wi-Fi and requires manual Plex setup via Docker, its performance and ease of use make it a versatile tool for modern digital needs.

Smart Photo Management

The AI album recognizes faces and locations to organize your photos automatically, helping you find specific memories quickly without manual sorting.

Rapid Data Transfer

With 10GbE network ports, you can back up files in seconds, saving valuable time when moving large datasets or media libraries.

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7. UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus User-Friendly 4 Bay NAS

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus

2.5GbE port

8GB LPDDR4X RAM

128TB capacity

ECC certified encryption

The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus is an entry-level 4 Bay NAS perfect for home media and private storage accessible from anywhere. Its intuitive design makes it easy for users moving from cloud storage to create a private cloud, featuring Smart Photo Backup and AI Albums to organize family memories.

Pros

• Beginner-friendly setup
• Cost-effective storage
• Strong privacy encryption
• Smart photo backup
• Magnetically aligned design

Cons

• No virtual machines
• Wired connection only

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User-Friendly App connects quickly via NFC and supports sharing files across devices. It is more cost-effective than subscription-based cloud storage, with potential savings of thousands over ten years. The advanced encryption is TRUSTe certified and ETSI EN 303 645 certified for robust security.

Equipped with a high-performance processor and 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, it runs multiple apps smoothly and supports 4K HDMI video output. The magnetic top dust cover aids alignment during closing, and the system supports 128TB massive capacity for preserving your digital life.

This model suits families and remote workers who value ease of use and cost savings. While it does not support virtual machines and requires wired connections, its focus on privacy, AI features, and intuitive setup makes it a compelling choice for home users.

Private Cloud Savings

By avoiding monthly cloud fees, you save significant money over time while keeping your data locally on private hard drives with full control.

Smart Memory Organization

The AI photo backup recognizes faces, scenes, and pets to organize your growing collection automatically, saving you hours of manual sorting.

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8. Synology DS925+ Reliable 4 Bay NAS

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS925+

522/565 MB/s throughput

Dual 2.5GbE ports

File and photo management

3-Year limited warranty

The Synology DS925+ is a DiskStation model that supports drives on its official compatibility list to ensure reliable operation. It offers up to 522/565 MB/s sequential read/write throughput for stable data transfers, with dual 2.5GbE ports providing fast network speeds and increased redundancy.

Pros

• Stable data transfers
• Built-in file management
• Surveillance solutions
• Strong reliability
• Dual port redundancy

Cons

• Limited to compatibility list
• Mid-range pricing

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Leveraging built-in file and photo management, data protection, virtualization, and surveillance solutions, it serves as a comprehensive private cloud platform. Backed by Synology's 3-year limited hardware warranty, it is designed for users who prioritize long-term reliability and consistent performance.

The dual network ports not only enhance speed but also provide link aggregation capabilities for better bandwidth management. Its software ecosystem is known for ease of use and robust security features, making it suitable for both home and small business environments.

Ideal for users who value stability and Synology's mature software experience, the DS925+ delivers solid performance for everyday storage tasks. While you must adhere to its drive compatibility list, the assurance of verified performance justifies this constraint for reliability-focused buyers.

Stable Performance

With sequential read/write throughput up to 565 MB/s, this NAS ensures smooth file transfers and reliable access to your data during peak usage.

Dual Port Redundancy

The dual 2.5GbE ports allow for increased redundancy and link aggregation, ensuring your network connection remains robust even if one port fails.

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9. Yxk Zero1 Pro Beginner 4 Bay NAS

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Yxk Zero1 Pro

Intel N100 processor

8GB DDR4 RAM

144TB raw storage

4K HDMI output

The Yxk Zero1 Pro is designed for beginners and families wanting to create shared home storage without custom operating systems. Powered by an Intel N100 x86 processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM, it handles everyday network attached storage tasks while providing room to explore Docker apps and third-party OS options.

Pros

• Beginner-friendly setup
• Home theater integration
• AI photo organization
• Third-party OS support
• Aluminum housing

Cons

• Limited RAM
• Drive installation required

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With up to 144TB raw NAS storage including SATA drives and M.2 NVMe slots, you can build a home media library for 4K movies or organize office archives. The shared media and 4K HDMI output let you connect directly to a TV for seamless home theater setup.

AI Photo Album for family memories recognizes faces and scenes to organize vacation photos and milestones into smart albums. The aluminum housing with dual-fan cooling ensures efficient heat dissipation for overnight backups or large file transfers.

This NAS is perfect for households needing easy setup and family-friendly features. While you must purchase drives separately, the intuitive mobile app guided steps and flexible OS support make it an accessible entry point into the world of network attached storage.

Home Theater Ready

Connect the 4K HDMI output directly to your TV to stream media effortlessly, turning your NAS into a central entertainment hub for the family.

Flexible Operating Systems

Experienced users can install TrueNAS or Unraid to customize their environment, offering versatility beyond the default operating system.

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10. Synology DS423 Secure 4 Bay NAS

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Synology DS423

Secure private cloud access

30 IP camera support

Ransomware-resistant backup

2-Year warranty

The Synology DS423 is a secure private cloud solution for family and business backup with robust file sharing and photo vault capabilities. It allows safe access to media and files from anywhere while keeping collaborators on the same page with comprehensive data protection features.

Pros

• Secure file sharing
• Versatile video surveillance
• Data protection snapshots
• File server replacement
• Strong warranty support

Cons

• Separate camera license
• Standard performance

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Its versatile video surveillance protects homes or businesses with intuitive monitoring and archiving tools for up to 30 IP cameras. The ransomware-resistant backup uses immutable snapshots and versioned files to protect against malware, ensuring critical documents and family memories remain safe.

Replacing expensive SharePoint or Dropbox with local file sharing, team folders, and permission control offers significant cost savings and data sovereignty. The unit comes with a 2-year warranty backed by Synology's expert support and ongoing software updates.

Ideal for families and small businesses prioritizing security and local storage, the DS423 delivers a balanced mix of performance and privacy. While camera licenses must be purchased separately, its strong protection features make it a reliable choice for securing valuable digital assets.

Ransomware Protection

Immutable snapshots ensure that even if malware attacks your system, you can restore your data to a previous safe state without paying ransoms.

Cost-Effective Replacement

Swap out subscription-based services like Dropbox for local file sharing with team folders, saving money while maintaining full control over your data.

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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 4 Bay NAS

Selecting the right 4 Bay NAS involves evaluating several key factors to ensure the device meets your performance, storage, and security needs. This section breaks down the critical considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Processor and RAM Performance

The processor is the brain of your NAS, determining how smoothly it handles multitasking, video transcoding, and virtualization. Look for Intel or AMD Quad-Core processors with at least 4GB to 8GB of RAM for efficient performance. If you plan to run Docker containers or virtual machines, prioritize higher core counts and expandable RAM slots to future-proof your system.

Network Connectivity Speeds

Network ports dictate how fast files transfer between your NAS and other devices. Standard Gigabit Ethernet limits speeds to 125MB/s, but 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports offer significantly faster throughput for large file transfers and media streaming. Ensure your router and switches support these speeds to avoid bottlenecks in your home or office network.

Storage Capacity and Expansion

A 4 Bay NAS allows you to install up to four hard drives, but total capacity depends on drive size and RAID configuration. Check if the device supports high-capacity drives like 20TB or 30TB units to reach hundreds of terabytes. Consider expansion units or M.2 NVMe slots for caching if you need even more room for data growth.

Software Ecosystem and Features

The operating system and included apps determine ease of use and functionality. Look for features like AI photo organization, surveillance support, and robust cloud sync options. A well-designed interface with mobile apps ensures you can manage files and backups efficiently from any location without needing technical expertise.

Data Protection and Security

Data redundancy through RAID configurations like RAID 5 or RAID 6 protects against drive failures. Advanced security features such as snapshot technology, encryption, and WORM capabilities safeguard against ransomware and accidental deletion. Ensure the NAS offers regular security updates and strong authentication methods like two-factor verification.

Budget and Total Cost of Ownership

While the initial purchase price is important, consider the total cost of ownership including hard drives, potential expansion units, and subscription fees for advanced features. Budget models may lack advanced virtualization, while premium models offer more features at a higher price. Balance upfront costs with long-term value to meet your needs.

Warranty and Support Options

A solid warranty indicates manufacturer confidence and provides peace of mind. Look for options offering at least 2 to 3 years of hardware coverage and accessible customer support. Reliable technical assistance is crucial for troubleshooting complex configurations or recovering data in case of system failures.

Power Consumption and Noise

NAS devices often run 24/7, so power efficiency impacts electricity bills. Energy-efficient processors help reduce running costs. Noise levels matter if the unit sits in living spaces; opt for models with quiet fans and low decibel ratings to avoid disturbing sleep or work activities in quiet environments.

How to Use and Care for Your 4 Bay NAS

Begin by installing compatible hard drives into the drive bays using the tool-free trays if available. Connect the NAS to your router via Ethernet and power it on. Follow the setup wizard on a web browser to initialize the operating system, create admin accounts, and configure RAID storage arrays for data redundancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 4 Bay NAS

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