For creators, a reliable NAS 4-bay system offers essential storage, fast access, and versatile media management. The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 stands out as the best overall due to its balanced performance and expandability. The QNAP TS-473A is a solid choice for power users needing robust processing, while the Synology DS423 caters well to those prioritizing intuitive file sharing and backup. The main tradeoffs in this category involve balancing raw performance, ease of use, and cost—higher-end models deliver more features but at a steeper price. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the ideal NAS for your creative workflows.
Key Takeaways
- Performance and expandability are key for handling large media files and multiple users simultaneously.
- Diskless models offer flexibility but require additional investment in drives and setup time.
- Connectivity options like 10GbE significantly improve transfer speeds for editing and backups.
- Ease of use and software support vary; Synology excels in user-friendly interfaces, while QNAP offers advanced features.
- Price range spans from budget-friendly to premium, with tradeoffs in features and future-proofing.
| nas 4 bay for creator | Processor | Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS68 | AMD Ryzen 3.8GHz Quad-Core | 16GB ECC DDR5 |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay De | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | 4GB DDR4 (upgradable to 16GB) |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay D | Intel Core i3-1315U | 8GB DDR5 |
| QNAP TS-473A-8G-US 4-Bay Deskt | AMD Ryzen V1500B 2.2 GHz | 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB) |
| ACEMAGIC NAS N3A 4-Bay Desktop | — | — |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS S | Intel x86 Quad-Core | — |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay N | High-performance processor | 8GB LPDDR4X RAM |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay | Intel Pentium Gold 8505 | — |
| Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless | — | — |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | Not specified (Intel/Realtek likely) | Not specified (expandable) |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T 4-Bay NAS Diskless
This model stands out for its high-performance hardware, making it ideal for creators who require robust editing, virtualization, or AI workloads. Its AMD Ryzen quad-core processor and 16GB ECC DDR5 memory support intensive tasks without lag, surpassing the more media-focused Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ in raw power. The dual 5GbE and 10GbE ports provide flexible, fast networking, though the diskless setup requires buyers to purchase drives separately, which can add to the initial cost. Its premium price reflects its enterprise-level capabilities, making it less suitable for casual users. If you need a desktop NAS that handles demanding workflows with ease, this is a top choice.
Pros:- High-performance AMD Ryzen processor supports demanding workloads
- Dual 5GbE & 10GbE ports for flexible, fast networking
- Supports advanced storage configurations with 4 M.2 NVMe slots
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of drives, increasing initial cost
- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Premium price may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Creators, small teams, or professionals needing high-performance storage and virtualization
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking budget-friendly, plug-and-play solutions
- Processor:AMD Ryzen 3.8GHz Quad-Core
- Memory:16GB ECC DDR5
- Drive Bays:4 M.2 NVMe Slots
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE & 10GbE
- Form Factor:Desktop
- Diskless:Yes
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for creators and small teams who need powerful hardware and flexible networking at a premium cost.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay Desktop NAS with AMD R2514 CPU, 8GB DDR4 RAM, Dual 10GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI, Diskless
This pick makes the most sense for advanced users who need multitasking, media processing, and security features in one package. Its AMD Ryzen embedded processor and expandable 8GB DDR4 RAM support virtualization, Docker, and AI workloads, unlike the Intel-based Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+, which focuses more on media streaming. The dual 10GbE ports enable fast data transfer, perfect for large media files or backups. However, drives are not included, meaning additional investment is necessary upfront. Its complex setup and enterprise features make it less suitable for casual or home users. If your workflows demand extensive multitasking and security, this NAS is a strong contender.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen embedded processor supports virtualization and AI
- Dual 10GbE ports enable rapid data transfer
- Supports multiple SSD and HDD configurations with surveillance features
Cons:- Drives must be purchased separately, increasing initial costs
- Setup complexity may challenge less experienced users
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, upgradeable at additional cost
Best for: Power users, media professionals, and small businesses with demanding multitasking needs
Not ideal for: Casual home users or those seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB)
- Drive Bays:4 SATA, 2 U.2 NVMe, 2 M.2 SSD slots
- Network Ports:2x 10GbE
- Maximum Storage:Up to 144TB
- Additional Features:Surveillance Center, Docker, RAID support
Our verdict“Designed for advanced workflows, this NAS excels in multitasking, security, and media processing but requires technical proficiency and investment.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server
This versatile NAS emphasizes media capabilities, with hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output, making it ideal for content creators and small media setups. Its Intel Celeron quad-core processor and dual 5GbE ports deliver reliable performance for streaming and editing tasks, outperforming the more enterprise-focused UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT in media output. While it supports hybrid storage with SATA and NVMe SSDs, the setup can be daunting for beginners, especially since it’s diskless and needs drives added. Its expandable RAM up to 16GB improves multitasking but increases cost. Overall, this model suits creators wanting a media-focused NAS with multimedia output features, despite its complexity.
Pros:- Hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output for direct media playback
- Powerful quad-core Intel processor supports multitasking
- Supports hybrid storage with SATA and NVMe SSDs
Cons:- Requires additional drives, increasing setup complexity
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB adds to cost
- More complex setup for beginners
Best for: Content creators and media professionals focused on streaming and editing
Not ideal for: Users seeking enterprise-grade multitasking or virtualization features
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Memory:4GB DDR4 (upgradable to 16GB)
- Storage Bays:4
- Network:Dual 5GbE
- Video Output:HDMI
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/JBOD
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for content creators prioritizing media output and 4K transcoding, with a tradeoff of setup complexity.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel Core i3-1315U, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE, M.2 NVMe Slots, 4K HDMI
This model makes an excellent choice for demanding professional environments, offering powerful hardware including an Intel Core i3 and DDR5 RAM. Its support for virtualization, Docker, AI-powered photo recognition, and extensive RAID configurations makes it stand out against simpler NAS options like the QNAP TS-473A-8G-US. The built-in 128GB SSD accelerates workflows, and dual 10GbE plus 2.5GbE ports ensure rapid data transfer. However, as a diskless setup, it requires additional investment in drives and might be too complex for casual users. Its enterprise features come with a higher price, making it best suited for tech-savvy professionals who need speed and flexibility.
Pros:- Powerful Intel Core i3-1315U supports virtualization and AI
- High-speed 10GbE & 2.5GbE ports for rapid data transfer
- Supports multiple RAID configurations and Docker containers
Cons:- Requires additional drives, increasing overall cost
- Setup complexity may be daunting for casual users
- Higher price point reflects enterprise features
Best for: IT professionals, enterprise users, and serious content creators needing speed and virtualization
Not ideal for: Home users or casual storage needs without extensive setup
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- Memory:8GB DDR5
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Connectivity:10GbE & 2.5GbE
- SSD:128GB included
- Supported RAID:Multiple configurations
Our verdict“This NAS excels in speed, virtualization, and enterprise features, suited for experienced users with demanding workflows.”
QNAP TS-473A-8G-US 4-Bay Desktop NAS with AMD Ryzen CPU and 8GB DDR4
The QNAP TS-473A-8G-US stands out for its combination of robust AMD Ryzen processing power and extensive expandability. With 8GB DDR4 RAM and support for up to 64GB, it offers strong multitasking, virtualization, and media server capabilities—making it a solid alternative to the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3. Its dual 2.5GbE ports provide fast network access, and the two M.2 NVMe slots enhance caching performance. However, like others in this roundup, it’s diskless and needs drives added, which could delay deployment. Its user interface and setup may challenge beginners but reward those who need cutting-edge performance for creative workflows.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen V1500B processor supports demanding tasks
- Expandable up to 64GB RAM for heavy multitasking
- Dual 2.5GbE ports and multiple M.2 slots for caching
Cons:- Requires separate drive purchase, increasing initial costs
- Complex setup and configuration for newcomers
- No included drives, delaying immediate use
Best for: Creative professionals and advanced users needing powerful, expandable storage
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with minimal technical experience
- Processor:AMD Ryzen V1500B 2.2 GHz
- Memory:8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB)
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Connectivity:Dual 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe NVMe
- Supported RAID:Multiple configurations
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for those demanding high performance and expandability, willing to handle a complex setup for professional workflows.”
ACEMAGIC NAS N3A 4-Bay Desktop Network Attached Storage Home & Office Backup Hub, Up to 136TB, Dual 2.5G+1G LAN, 8GB DDR4, 128GB PCIe3.0 SSD, Diskless
The ACEMAGIC NAS N3A stands out for supporting an impressive up to 136TB with multiple drive options and flexible connectivity, including HDMI and USB-C, making it ideal for those who want a highly customizable setup. Compared with the TERRAMASTER F4-425, which offers a quieter and more straightforward multimedia focus, the N3A’s complex setup might be daunting for less technical users. The inclusion of dual 2.5G LAN ports ensures fast network transfers, but the absence of drives means higher initial costs. This model caters well to enthusiasts who prioritize versatile connectivity and system customization over simple plug-and-play use.
Pros:- Supports up to 136TB of storage with multiple drive options
- Dual 2.5G and 1G LAN ports for high-speed network transfer
- Flexible connectivity including HDMI, USB-C, and multiple USB ports
- Supports various operating systems for customization
Cons:- HDDs/SSDs are not included, increasing initial costs
- Setup can be complex and may require technical knowledge
- Lacks pre-installed drives, which could delay deployment
Best for: Power users who want maximum storage capacity and flexible connectivity options, including media professionals and tech-savvy creators.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking an all-in-one, ready-to-use NAS without the need for additional drives and complex setup.
- Maximum Storage Capacity:136TB
- Number of HDD Bays:4
- Number of M.2 Slots:2
- Ethernet Ports:2 (2.5G and 1G)
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- SSD:128GB PCIe3.0 SSD
- Connectivity:HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4, USB-A ports, USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C, 3.5mm audio jack
- Supported Operating Systems:Windows 11 Pro, TrueNAS, Unraid
- Diskless:Yes
Our verdict“Best suited for experienced creators and enthusiasts who want maximum control and capacity.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Storage, Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU, 4GB RAM, 2.5GbE LAN, Diskless
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a robust quad-core processor and 4GB RAM, making it a strong contender for handling multitasking and 4K media transcoding, similar to the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus. Its ultra-quiet operation at just 21dB makes it perfect for home environments where noise is a concern. However, its 120TB maximum capacity and 4-bay limit could be restrictive for users with larger storage needs or who want expansion options. While setup is straightforward, the moderate 4.1-star rating suggests it may not appeal to users seeking highly advanced features or enterprise-level performance.
Pros:- Quiet operation at 21dB, suitable for home environments
- Powerful quad-core processor handles multitasking and media transcoding
- Supports large storage up to 120TB with flexible RAID options
- Easy mobile app management for backups and remote access
Cons:- Limited to 4 bays, restricting future expansion
- Requires separate disks, adding to total cost
- Customer ratings are moderate, indicating some user dissatisfaction
Best for: Home users needing quiet, reliable backup and media streaming with moderate storage requirements.
Not ideal for: Professionals requiring extensive storage or advanced virtualization features, which this model lacks.
- Processor:Intel x86 Quad-Core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Max Storage Capacity:120TB
- Network Interface:2.5GbE LAN
- Noise Level:21dB
Our verdict“A solid choice for home multimedia and backup needs in a quiet, easy-to-manage package.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Network Attached Storage (Diskless) with 128TB Support, AI Photo Album, 8GB RAM, 2.5GbE, 4K HDMI
The UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus excels as an entry-level yet feature-rich solution, supporting up to 128TB for personal or family storage. Its AI-powered photo album and 4K HDMI output make it particularly appealing for media organization and viewing, contrasting with the more enterprise-focused ACEMAGIC NAS N3A. While setup is straightforward, it’s limited to wired Ethernet and does not support virtual machines, which could be drawbacks for tech-savvy users. Its user-friendly features and multimedia focus make it suitable for households looking to organize and enjoy their media.
Pros:- Supports large storage up to 128TB
- User-friendly setup with remote access
- AI photo management for easy organization
- Includes 4K HDMI for media viewing
Cons:- Storage disks are not included, adding to cost
- Supports only wired Ethernet, no Wi-Fi
- Limited to basic file sharing and media features without virtualization
Best for: Families and casual creators seeking an easy-to-use, media-centric NAS with AI photo management.
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals needing virtual machine support or extensive network customization.
- Storage Capacity:128TB
- Number of Bays:4
- Support Capacity:up to 128TB
- Processor:High-performance processor
- Memory:8GB LPDDR4X RAM
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Additional Features:AI photo album, remote access
Our verdict“Ideal for families and hobbyists wanting simple storage and media organization with smart features.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay NAS with Intel Pentium Gold 8505, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 128GB SSD, 10GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Plus is tailored for demanding small office environments, boasting a 10GbE port and a powerful Intel Pentium Gold processor with 8GB DDR5 RAM. Its ability to support up to 144TB makes it suitable for extensive data storage and quick transfers, outperforming the Synology DS423 in raw speed. Its setup complexity and reliance on wired connections make it less ideal for casual users, but for those needing rapid data access and multitasking, it delivers.
Pros:- Fast data transfer speeds with 10GbE and USB ports
- Supports extensive storage up to 144TB
- High-performance Intel Pentium Gold processor
- Versatile connectivity including 4K HDMI
Cons:- Hard drives are not included, increasing overall cost
- Setup may require technical expertise
- Lacks Wi-Fi support, relying solely on wired network
Best for: Small businesses or advanced creators needing high-speed data transfer and multitasking capabilities.
Not ideal for: Home users or those seeking a plug-and-play experience, due to its complex setup and enterprise-level features.
- Digital Storage Capacity:144TB
- Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, HDMI, SATA, USB
- Processor:Intel Pentium Gold 8505
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Ethernet Ports:1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE
- Built-in SSD:128GB
- Hard-Drive Size:3.5 inches
- Speed:1250 MB/s
Our verdict“Designed for power users and small offices needing swift, reliable, large-capacity storage.”
Synology DS423 4-Bay Diskless NAS for Backup, File Sharing, and Video Surveillance
The Synology DS423 excels as a reliable, versatile storage solution for those prioritizing data protection and security, with built-in file sharing, media management, and support for up to 30 IP cameras—though you’ll need to purchase camera licenses separately. Unlike the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus, which offers multimedia-centric features, the DS423 emphasizes data integrity and security, making it ideal for small businesses or security-conscious home users. Its diskless design keeps initial costs down but requires buyers to select their own drives. It’s a straightforward, dependable choice for comprehensive data management.
Pros:- Supports up to 30 IP cameras (licenses sold separately)
- Reliable backup and file sharing capabilities
- Two-year warranty for peace of mind
- Diskless design allows flexible drive choice
Cons:- Camera licenses must be purchased separately
- No included hard drives
- Limited to 30 cameras without additional licenses
Best for: Small businesses or home users needing a secure, reliable backup and surveillance-ready NAS.
Not ideal for: Media-heavy creators seeking advanced multimedia features or large-scale virtual machine support.
- Number of Bays:4
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Warranty:2 years
- Supported Cameras:Up to 30 IP cameras (license required)
Our verdict“An excellent choice for users seeking a secure, flexible storage solution with surveillance options.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ stands out for its high-speed data transfer capabilities, thanks to 2.5GbE networking, making it ideal for users who need quick access to large files across multiple devices. Compared to the Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Pro, which offers a faster CPU and more RAM, the DS425+ excels in multi-user environments and data protection with RAID and snapshots, though it doesn’t support expansion beyond its 4 bays. Its compact design suits small offices or advanced home setups, but the setup process can be daunting for beginners. This NAS balances performance and data security, making it a solid choice for those managing sensitive or large media libraries.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer with 2.5GbE networking
- Supports multiple users and concurrent access
- Multi-layered data protection including RAID and snapshots
Cons:- Requires additional disks for full storage capacity
- Setup process may be complex for inexperienced users
Best for: Small business owners or power users who need reliable, multi-user data sharing and robust protection.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking simple plug-and-play storage, since setup and configuration can be complex.
- Model Number:DS425+
- Warranty:3 years
- Network Speeds:2.5GbE
- Number of Bays:4
- Supported RAID:Yes
- Processor:Not specified (Intel/Realtek likely)
- Memory:Not specified (expandable)
- Use Cases:Data sharing, backup, surveillance
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for experienced users or small businesses that need reliable, fast, and secure multi-user storage.”
How We Picked
These NAS options were evaluated based on performance, build quality, usability, expandability, and value for creators. I prioritized models that support large media files, fast data transfer, and reliable operation under heavy workloads. Each product was compared for its hardware specs, software ecosystem, and user experience, with a focus on how well they serve creative workflows. The ranking reflects a balance between cost and features, aiming to highlight options suitable for different creator needs—from hobbyists to professional content producers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Nas 4 Bay For Creators
Choosing the right NAS 4-bay for creators involves understanding several key factors. Beyond raw specs, consider how the device integrates into your workflow, future scalability, and ease of use. A well-chosen NAS should streamline media management, support multiple users, and handle large files without bottlenecks. Being mindful of these considerations helps avoid common pitfalls like underestimating storage needs or overpaying for features you won’t use.Performance and Processing Power
For creators working with high-resolution video and large datasets, a NAS with a capable processor and ample RAM is essential. Devices with Intel or AMD processors generally deliver better multitasking and media transcoding, which is vital for editing workflows. However, higher processing power often comes at a higher price and increased power consumption, so weigh your current and future workload requirements carefully.
Connectivity and Speed
Fast data transfer is critical when dealing with large media files. Models equipped with 10GbE ports or multiple gigabit Ethernet connections dramatically reduce transfer times and improve live editing experiences. Investing in a NAS with these features makes sense if your network infrastructure supports such speeds, but it can also increase setup complexity and cost.
Expandability and Storage Capacity
Most 4-bay NAS devices are designed to support multiple drives, but check their maximum supported capacity and whether they allow for easy drive upgrades. Some models also support M.2 SSD slots or expansion units, offering additional flexibility for caching or future storage needs. Planning for growth now helps avoid costly replacements later.
Ease of Use and Software Ecosystem
User-friendly interfaces and reliable software are vital for creators who need quick access and simple management. Synology’s DSM and QNAP’s QTS offer intuitive experiences, but each has its nuances. Consider how much time you want to dedicate to setup and maintenance, especially if you’re less tech-savvy.
Cost and Value
Price can vary widely, from budget models that require additional investment in drives to premium units packed with advanced features. Balance your budget against the features you need most—overpaying for extras you won’t use is a common mistake. Sometimes, investing a bit more upfront pays off in better performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a 10GbE port on my NAS for creative work?
If you regularly transfer large media files or work with 4K/8K video editing directly from the NAS, a 10GbE port can significantly cut down transfer times. For casual or less intensive use, gigabit Ethernet may suffice, but upgrading your network to support higher speeds can future-proof your setup and improve overall efficiency.
Should I buy a diskless NAS or one with drives pre-installed?
Choosing a diskless NAS offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to choose drives that fit your budget and performance needs. It also simplifies upgrading individual drives later. However, it adds the initial setup step and requires you to purchase compatible drives separately. Pre-installed drives are more convenient but limit upgrade options and may lock you into specific configurations.
Is hardware transcoding necessary for creators?
Hardware transcoding supports real-time video editing and streaming, especially with high-resolution content. If your workflow involves editing directly from the NAS or streaming to multiple devices, a model with dedicated transcoding capabilities can be a valuable feature. For light use or static backups, this feature becomes less critical.
How important is software support and app ecosystem?
Robust software support ensures your NAS remains easy to manage and upgrade over time. Synology’s DSM is renowned for its user-friendly interface and extensive app ecosystem, making it ideal for creators who prioritize simplicity. QNAP’s QTS offers advanced features for power users, but may require a steeper learning curve.
Can a NAS replace external drives for backup?
Yes, a NAS can serve as a centralized backup hub for multiple devices, offering automated and scheduled backups that improve data security. It also enables remote access and media streaming. However, for critical data, it’s wise to complement NAS backups with offsite or cloud backups, as NAS devices can fail or be compromised.
Conclusion
For creators seeking the best overall balance of power and usability, the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 is a standout choice. Those prioritizing value without sacrificing performance should consider the QNAP TS-473A. Beginners or users with simpler needs might find the Synology DS423 easiest to set up and manage. Power users needing advanced features and future-proofing will appreciate the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro. Ultimately, selecting the right NAS depends on your specific workflow, budget, and technical comfort—use this guide to match your needs with the best fit.
