Ever been in a situation when you are downloading files, storing data, and PC or any other mobile devices run out of storage right?
Even all the pen drives in your home are full!
What will you do in such circumstances?
Will you run to buy a new limited storage device?
So the whole situation is just like having a petrol car and you run short of fuel while traveling. Wouldn’t it be better if the fuel just went on and on?
This is where the Network Attached Storage comes into the play. With the help of the NAS cases, it becomes easy to get cloud storage access. So with the help of proper NAS cases, you can simply connect them with your router and improve cloud storage options in all the devices connected with it.
Ideally, choosing the perfect NAS cases was a real daunting task. Especially because there are so many products already available in the market and it takes hours of research. So to help you with choosing the best NAS Case, I have chalked out a complete guide on the NAS PC case, the alternative products available, and all that you need to know about it.
Table of Contents
Best NAS Cases in 2024
1. Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+
Qualities
- Airflow – Great
- Design – Great
- Window – Yes
- Spacious – Yes
- Noise – Quiet
While reviewing the product, I found that the Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+ comes with a dual-core processor. This allowed me to transfer files to the cloud storage much faster.
Furthermore, I found that the device includes three USB 3.0 ports. This feature allowed me to connect more than three external storage devices to increase space. It was great to use.
The one thing that I liked the most about the Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+ is the technology involved. I just turned on the auto synchronizations and could get an easy backup solution.
Apart from this, I found that the product has high-performance figures. Because of this, it always delivered proper intelligent monitoring and video management options.
Pros
Cons
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
2. WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 StorageSynology
Qualities
- Airflow – Great
- Design – Design
- Window – Yes
- Spacious – Yes
- Noise – Quiet
While reviewing, I found that the WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Storage comes with a centralized storage platform. You just have to configure with the NAS case for once and then the cabinet will do the rest.
Coming to the performance, the WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Storage has a seamless processor. The dual-core chip can easily clock at 1.3 GHz. So file sharing will never be difficult.
Another impressive feature of the WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Storage is the high surveillance option with the product. You can get unlimited camera licenses available.
The one thing that I loved about the product is the multiple raid configurations. So you can always add or remove disks as per your requirements.
Pros
Cons
- High-performance 1.3 GHz dual-core Processor for lag-free streaming
- 1GB of DDR3 Memory to multitask with ease
- Centralized network storage and access from anywhere
- Automatic file synching across all your computers
3. BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Storage
Qualities
- Airflow – Great
- Design – Decent
- Window – Yes
- Spacious – Yes
- Noise – Low
When I tested the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Storage for the first time, I found that the device is easy to set up and to configure. It took me less than 5 minutes to be ready and I simply had to plug in the router.
Coming to the features, the product has impressed me the most with combined streaming videos and proper recording options. With the help of this, I could set up the DLNA to the connected devices.
The one thing that I liked about the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Storage is the product comes with a hard drive. The storage is set to 4TB and it allowed me to get more expansion.
Apart from this, I found that the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Storage comes with a built-in BitTorrent Client. So downloading and uploading files was just like a piece of cake.
Pros
Cons
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- Effortless Installation – Simply connect the LinkStation to your router and enjoy shared network storage for all your...
- Subscription-Free Personal Cloud – Store, back up, and manage all your videos, music, and photos and access them...
- Storage Purpose-Built for Data Security – A NAS designed to keep your data safe, the LS200 features a closed system to...
- Back Up Multiple Computers & Devices – NAS Navigator management utility and PC backup software included. You can set...
4. SilverStone Technology Mini-Itx/DTX
Qualities
- Airflow – Great
- Design – Decent
- Window – No
- Spacious – Yes
- Noise – Quiet
While reviewing the product, I found that the SilverStone Technology Mini-Itx/DTX has the complete support of 12 total drives. The product includes 8 swappable drives that can always enhance the levels of storage.
Apart from this, the one thing that attracted me is the premium quality finish. Apart from the large storage space, the SilverStone Technology Mini-Itx/DTX includes a lockable power button design.
Furthermore, I recognized the SilverStone Technology Mini-Itx/DTX 3 intake fans. Each of these fans is super fast in speed and can always take out the heat generated.
The one thing that I liked the most about the product is the cabinet build quality. There are removable swap drives trays that can give you support to add more drives.
Pros
Cons
- Support 12 total drives with 8 hot-swappable 3.5" Or 2.5" Sas/SATA and 4 fixed 2.5" Drives
- Unbelievable storage space and versatility for small form Factor
- Premium brushed aluminum front door
- Support Graphics card up to 11" With supporter design from tj08-e
5. Western Digital 3TB My Cloud Storage
Qualities
- Airflow – Great
- Design – Average
- Window – No
- Spacious – Yes
- Noise – Mild
The one thing that attracted me the most about the Western Digital 3TB My Cloud Storage is the simple installation option. Because of this, I could easily connect to my devices and allow them for a steady backup.
Moreover, I found that the Western Digital 3TB My Cloud Storage has a simple storage device. So it allowed me to directly configure my laptop and then I could always get a secure connection.
The one thing I liked the most about the product is the big central space available. It allowed me to organize everything and install multiple drives as necessary. So it was just sufficient for me to keep my videos.
But the one thing that impressed me the most is the option to get an immediate backup to my devices. So with the help of my phone, I could get easy access to all the stored files available.
Pros
Cons
- One central place to store all your photos, videos, music and files
- Quick and simple setup from your phone
- Backup for all your PC and Mac computers
- Auto backup for photos and videos on your phone
A Few Bonus Options of NAS Cases
1. Synology 4 Bay NAS DS420j
The one feature about the Synology 4 Bay NAS DS420j that has attracted the people is the personal multimedia server. It allows you to get fast uploading solutions.
Why it stands out?
The reason why I liked this product the most is because of the easy backup solution. This feature has helped to stay away from any type of data loss.
Who Will Use This Most
People with large fields of video recording will fancy the Synology 4 Bay NAS DS420j most. Since it has DSM technology, it will help people much.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
If you want a great product available for easy camera recording, the Synology 4 Bay NAS DS420j is the best Case for NAS available for you. It has proper storage options.
- 4-bay home NAS with over 60 TB raw capacity support suitable for data backup and file sharing
- 64-bit 4-core 1 4 GHz processor and 1 GB DDR4 memory
- Over 112 MB/s encrypted sequential reading and writing throughput
- Easy-to-deploy surveillance solution that supports up to 16 IP cameras
2. TerraMaster F2-210 2-Bay NAS
Most of the buyers have liked the powerful performance from the TerraMaster F2-210 2-Bay NAS. Since it includes the Btrfs file system, it is easier to get complete data and also a proper backup.
Why it stands out?
While reviewing the product, I found that the TerraMaster F2-210 2-Bay NAS has a complete array of security protection. It helped me to get my data secure and allowed me for properly working.
Who Will Use This Most
People who would like to prefer flexible storage rather than just cloud storage may find the TerraMaster F2-210 2-Bay NAS as a great choice. It has remote backup available for easy access and upload.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
The TerraMaster F2-210 2-Bay NAS is a professional device that allows you to customize your requirements. You can easily alter the configuration of drives at any time.
- An affordable, high-performance 2-bay NAS optimized for home and SOHO users, running the latest TOS 4.2 operating...
- ARM v8 quad-core 1.4GHz CPU with 1GB RAM (NOT upgradeable), blazingly fast read/write speeds of more than 114 MB/s (RAID...
- Supports Emby and Plex media servers, which keep your videos, music, and photos personal media beautifully...
- Compatible with 3.5" and 2.5" SATA HDD, 2.5" SATA SSD. Each bay supports the HDD up to 22TB (Total of 44TB in RAID 0)....
Editor’s Choice
While reviewing all the products I had to come across a lot of NAS cases present in the market. Since most of them are similar, it always becomes a daunting task t pick up the right product available.
However, after doing extensive research on most of the products available, I could sort out a few of them that have the most updated features and specifications.
Below, I have compared the top 3 cases that are available on the market today. You can just have a look at them and pick out the right product for yourself.
The Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+ is my top pick when it comes to a high-speed performance with dedicated levels of storage. I found that the product has over 113 Mbps reading and 112 Mbps speed of writing. So data transmission is done in just a matter of a few seconds. Moreover, it includes a dual-core processor and a decent level of encryption engine.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
I have picked the WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Storage as the runner up choice, not because of the high performance, but also the easy access. While using the product, I found that the WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Storage includes a high performance with a 1.3 GHz dual-core processor. So it may seem to be highly effective when it comes to seamless media streaming.
- High-performance 1.3 GHz dual-core Processor for lag-free streaming
- 1GB of DDR3 Memory to multitask with ease
- Centralized network storage and access from anywhere
- Automatic file synching across all your computers
Another product that I liked the most is the option of having BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Storage. For me, it was the most budget-friendly product that I could use for my video editing requirements. Apart from the easy cloud storage access, I could get a feature like an internal hard drive. This allowed me to access through more storage space options available.
- Effortless Installation – Simply connect the LinkStation to your router and enjoy shared network storage for all your...
- Subscription-Free Personal Cloud – Store, back up, and manage all your videos, music, and photos and access them...
- Storage Purpose-Built for Data Security – A NAS designed to keep your data safe, the LS200 features a closed system to...
- Back Up Multiple Computers & Devices – NAS Navigator management utility and PC backup software included. You can set...
What is a NAS?
I’m sure you must be aware of the concept of personal cloud storage. Well, the working principle of a NAS is quite similar to this. The only major difference is that the NAS is specifically a set of hard drives that includes a high capacity.
All of these are configured in a proper NAS case so that it can be attached to your router or modem. So it’s a better version of your external hard drive. Only the storage is done on a cloud.
Since the NAS case gets connected to your router, almost every device connected with the same modem can get access to this cloud storage. So it works more like a connected hub for storage. But, if you are looking for the Best Router For NAS then we might have something for you.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
Why You Should Build Your Own NAS?
- The biggest advantage is that you can get a better understanding of the body and what is going on. So if there are any issues, you can properly diagnose the product.
- Another advantage of building your NAS case is that you can customize the case according to your requirements. You can calculate the amount of storage to the size of the case and the space that you have.
- In case you are building your NAS server, you will be able to save up a lot of money. Though it may take some time for you to build the same, you will save up a few bucks.
NAS V/S Cloud Storage
Since the concept of using NAS and having cloud storage is quite similar, a lot of people do get confused between them. But, there’s a slight difference as well.
Cloud storage is great, but you need to take the help of a storage provider to set up your data. But in the case of the NAS, it’s more like a complete personal place. Furthermore, there’s no third party involved in NAS unlike any regular cloud storage options available.
Moreover, the NAS setup takes up space. As a result of this, it may be a bit more costly than any regular cloud storage options available. However, it’s just a one-time investment that you need to make.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
NAS V/S External Hard Drive
Just like there’s a difference with the cloud storage, there’s a slight difference between a NAS and any external hard drive. Most of the people may opt for attaching just 1-2 external flash drives or other devices, once your storage space starts to eat up.
You can continue it for a short while, but if you’re working with a large number of videos and other data, just one or two external drives will not be sufficient for you. You need more storage space and this is where a NAS can help you out.
Since it is connected to the network, you can work on any PC, laptop or other devices and store the data on your personal space.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
Do You Need a NAS Case?
Now, this depends on entirely your needs. If you’re finding it hard to deal short of storage space, having a NAS case can just solve the problem for you. External storages can be accessed with only one device at a time but with a NAS system, it’s not so difficult.
You can easily build one of your own if you just have the right NAS case and a bit more time. Stacking everything together and saving up the physical space will also be a part if you get a proper NAS case.
So if you are in requirement of large data space and multiple storage options, having a NAS is the right option for you.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
More NAS Building Resources
Building your NAS resources is never a difficult job if you have the right guide in your hand. You need to get a hold of a proper NAS case and follow up a neat guide. Well to help you out with it, I have found three websites where you can find vital online information. They are Windows Central, Make Use Of and Wikipedia.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Q1. Is maximum speed (225 Mb/s) possible over USB 3.0?
A1. Now this will entirely depend on multiple factors just like the speed from your ISP service. Moreover, it also depends on the number of files and the available size. If it’s not getting the right speed, you can have a look at the local disc speed a swell. So if you have the right combination available, it’s not going to be a big issue for you.
Q2. Will DS218+ support plex?
A2. If you just have a look at the configuration of the DS218+, it’s almost the same as the DS918+. However, it includes 2 drive bays rather than 4. However, the most impressive part that I have experienced with the product is plex implementation. I’ve tried it more than 3 months now and it seems to be performing amazingly.
Q3. How much clearance for airflow is recommended?
A3. Well, it always depends on the number of discs that you have in the NAS case. If you have connected to multiple disks, it will have a higher chipset configuration. So here, the heat generation will be much more. I have faced such issues while working in my office. But for my home, I’ve kept a 1-feet distance from the radiator to keep good airflow and it seemed to work well.
Q4. Can any NAS system be hacked?
A4. Honestly, anything that you put up to the internet can be hacked. Even the most secure system available over the internet can be hacked. So it all depends on the level of encryption. Since the NAS will be connected to your router, it becomes important that you keep it secure. Though it will not be 100% safe, but will surely reduce the levels of threat.
Q5. Can two of the 2bay models be connected via Ethernet?
A5. Of course, you can and it can be very interesting if you do such. I’ve tried along with the EX2 NAS device by adding two devices to the router. Well, you need to have two separate Ethernet cables with a pin to configure them and use them. So using two devices beside each other is never a big problem for you. You need to add a static IP address to all the NAS systems present.
Q6. Would I be able to start with one disk and later add a second disk?
A6. Now, this will include both yes and no! However, it completely depends on the raid of your use. If you are using a raid 0 then you need to start with two disks at least. However, since I’ve set my default at raid 1 or raid 2, I can always start the procedure by having only one disk. I installed one more after 2 months and didn’t even have to format the contents.
Q7. Does it include protection software against the virus?
A7. Honestly, I haven’t seen much software present in any of the products that I have used. So the answer to the question is probably not. However, you may expect a basic level of encryption for better security, but keeping your devices safe with anti-malware software is always important.
- Encrypted sequential throughput performance at over 113 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- Dual-core Processor with AES-NI encryption engine
- 2GB DDR3L memory (expandable up to 6GB)
- Advanced Bars file system offering 65, 000 system-wide snapshots and 1, 024 snapshots per shared folder
Conclusion
Of course, having a NAS case with you means that you do not have to worry any further about the storage problems. Just connect them to your router and you’ll get a complete solution. Specifically, building your NAS is always a bit time consuming, so here, I’ve sorted out some of the best NAS cases available in the market today.
For more information, you can just have a look and find your best match. Do drop your comments below and let me know which NAS Computer Case has been the best pick for you.
Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API