Tag: NAS

  • Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro NAS: New Pricing and Storage Update

    Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro NAS: New Pricing and Storage Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The N5 Pro NAS is now available in Japanese, EU, Global, and UK online stores, with a $30 discount using code NAS30.
    2. Both the N5 and N5 Pro NAS devices were actually launched on July 1, featuring AMD Ryzen 7 255 and Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APUs.
    3. Minisforum has updated the specifications for both models and delayed shipment dates to September 15.
    4. The N5 now starts at $645 (before discount) with 16 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, removing the earlier 64 GB option.
    5. The N5 Pro has also removed the 64 GB storage option and adjusted its barebone unit price to $1,019, while other pre-configured models have varying price changes.

    Minisforum has announced that its N5 Pro network-attached storage (NAS) option is now accessible in its Japanese, EU, Global, and UK online stores. If you use the discount code NAS30, you can get a $30 reduction on the price. The N5 Pro is one of two NAS devices released by Minisforum, the other being the N5.

    Clarifying the Launch

    It seems, however, that this announcement is not quite correct regarding the launch. Both the N5 and N5 Pro have been for sale since July 1, featuring AMD Ryzen 7 255 and Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APUs, respectively. This means that the N5 Pro is expected to offer similar performance to Minisforum’s AI X1 Pro, which we reviewed not long ago (currently priced at $999 on Amazon).

    Recent Updates

    From what we observe, Minisforum has discreetly updated the specifications for the N5 and N5 Pro while delaying shipment dates to September 15. For example, the N5 cannot be purchased as a barebones unit at the moment. As of now, the N5 starts at $645 before the NAS30 discount, and it comes with 16 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, instead of the earlier 64 GB option.

    Changes in Storage Options

    In a similar vein, Minisforum has removed the 64 GB storage choice for the N5 Pro, opting for 128 GB drives instead. Additionally, the pricing for the barebone unit has been adjusted to $1,019 from $1,039. Although the entry-level pre-configured model is currently out of stock, the 48 GB ECC DDR5 RAM version is now $3 cheaper at $1,308. On the other hand, the price for the 96 GB RAM option has risen from $1,583 to $1,597, and there has been no explanation given for this increase. For more information, visit Minisforum’s official website.

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    Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro NAS: New Pricing and Storage UpdateMinisforum N5 and N5 Pro NAS: New Pricing and Storage Update

     

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  • TerraMaster 32TB Network Storage with Up to 32GB RAM

    TerraMaster 32TB Network Storage with Up to 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TerraMaster F4 SSD is a compact NAS device, measuring 138 x 60 x 140 millimeters, designed for high-speed performance.
    2. It supports up to four M.2 2280 SSDs, with a maximum raw data capacity of 32 TB.
    3. The device is powered by an Intel N95 processor and comes with 8 GB of DDR5 RAM, upgradeable to 32 GB (non-ECC).
    4. Connectivity features include one 5 Gbps Ethernet port, three USB 3.2 ports (one Type-C), and HDMI for media playback.
    5. The F4 SSD is priced at $399.99 and supports user management for up to 20 accounts, with options for automatic photo backups and cloud integration.

    TerraMaster has released a new network storage device (NAS) called the F4 SSD, which is known for its compact size and high speed, making it a bit pricey. This NAS utilizes only flash memory, which allows it to maintain small dimensions of 138 x 60 x 140 millimeters. It can support the installation of up to four M.2 2280 SSDs, with a maximum raw data capacity of 32 TB.

    Specifications and Features

    Inside the F4 SSD, you’ll find an Intel N95 processor along with 8 GB of DDR5 RAM as standard. The RAM can be upgraded to a maximum of 32 GB, although it does not support ECC memory. For network connectivity, there is one Ethernet port that offers a maximum data transfer rate of 5 Gbps. Additionally, it features three USB 3.2 ports, which can reach speeds of up to 10 Gbps; one of these ports is a Type-C port, which makes it easier to do fast backups. Media playback can be done directly via HDMI. TerraMaster states that users can automatically back up their photos, and individual storage areas can be created for different users. User management is supported, allowing for up to 20 user accounts. Lastly, there is an option to integrate cloud storage as well.

    Pricing

    The current price for the F4 SSD is $399.99 when bought straight from TerraMaster.

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    TerraMaster 32TB Network Storage with Up to 32GB RAM

     

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  • Synology DS425+: 4 HDDs, 2 SSDs, but with an outdated processor

    Synology DS425+: 4 HDDs, 2 SSDs, but with an outdated processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Synology DiskStation DS425+ features an Intel Celeron J4125 processor, which is somewhat outdated.
    2. The NAS supports four hard drives and various RAID configurations for optimizing speed, storage, or data safety, but shouldn’t be the sole method for data security.
    3. It includes two M.2 slots for SSD caching to improve data transfer speeds, along with two Ethernet ports (one at 2.5Gbit/s and one at 1Gbit/s) and two USB 3.0 ports.
    4. The DS425+ has only 2GB of RAM, but memory can be upgraded easily.
    5. The NAS is priced at €450 in Germany, but may not be widely available yet; alternatives like the Ugreen NASync DXP4800 Plus are recommended.

    Synology has been quite busy lately and has just introduced another new product in addition to the BeeStation Plus and the DS925+. The DiskStation DS425+ is their latest NAS offering, but its performance is not likely to raise the standards much. It features an Intel Celeron J4125, which is considered somewhat outdated. Nevertheless, how well a NAS performs really depends on the specific tasks it’s used for, and it’s not really fair to compare it with ordinary computers. Another downside is that the DS425+ has only 2GB of RAM, but the good news is that you can easily increase the memory.

    Drive Support and RAID Configurations

    As its name suggests, the new Synology NAS can handle four 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch hard drives. Like usual, it supports various RAID setups, which help in optimizing either speed, storage space, or data safety. However, one should keep in mind that a NAS alone shouldn’t be relied upon as the only method for securing data.

    Caching and Connectivity Options

    Moreover, the DS425+ features two M.2 slots for compatible SSDs that can be used for caching. This can enhance data transfer speeds by keeping frequently used files on the faster SSD. However, the speed can also be affected by the connectivity options. In this setup, there are two Ethernet ports, but only one supports a higher speed of 2.5Gbit/s, while the other is capped at 1Gbit/s. Additionally, there are two USB 3.0 ports available for connecting external drives or other USB storage devices. Finally, the new Synology NAS is priced at €450 in Germany, although it’s not yet available at many major retailers.

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  • Beelink ME Mini NAS Launch: Supports Up to 24TB Storage Globally

    Beelink ME Mini NAS Launch: Supports Up to 24TB Storage Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beelink’s ME mini NAS is now available for pre-order globally, priced at $329 for the entry-level model with 12 GB RAM and 2 TB storage.
    2. The device supports up to six NVMe SSDs, allowing for a total storage expansion of up to 24 TB.
    3. It features an Intel N150 chipset and is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, Proxmox, and Linux.
    4. Connectivity options include WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, along with a compact design and integrated power supply.
    5. After the pre-order period, the base model will be priced at $409, with an upcoming version expected to include two 2 TB Crucial SSDs.

    Beelink has launched its ME mini to the world market. This NAS was first hinted at in early March 2025, with the official release in China happening in April 2025. Now, customers can pre-order it through the global website. The entry-level version, which includes 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 2 TB of storage, is priced at $329.

    Key Features

    One standout feature of this NAS is its capacity to accommodate six NVMe SSDs. Beelink states that users can expand total storage up to 24 TB by using all six slots. There is also 64 GB of eMMC storage, presumably designated for the operating system. The ME mini is compatible with various operating systems such as Windows, Proxmox, and Linux.

    Performance Specs

    In terms of processing capabilities, the ME mini is powered by an Intel N150 chipset. This model is part of the Twin Lake series and is quite similar to the N100, albeit with minor adjustments. The device also offers a good array of connectivity options, which include:

    For wireless connections, the NAS comes equipped with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Additional features of this compact mini PC consist of a space-saving design, an integrated power supply unit (PSU), and a vertical airflow cooler. It comes in three different color choices. After the pre-order period, the base model of the Beelink ME mini will be available for $409, and there appears to be another configuration in the works. This alternate version will include two 2 TB Crucial SSDs (with the current price of a 2 TB Samsung 990 Pro being $169.99 on Amazon), while maintaining the same RAM specifications.

    Beelink ME Mini NAS Launch: Supports Up to 24TB Storage Globally
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  • Minisforum N5 Pro: Compact NAS with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

    Minisforum N5 Pro: Compact NAS with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum has launched the MS-A2 mini workstation with early discounts, replacing the MS-A1 priced at $239.99.
    2. The new N5 and N5 Pro mini-PCs will feature AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and support up to 96 GB of DDR5 EEC SO-DIMM RAM.
    3. Both models will allow for the addition of a discrete GPU via a PCIe x16 slot or OCuLink.
    4. The upcoming NAS devices will include 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps LAN ports, five drive slots, and dual rear fans operating at around 42 dB.
    5. The N5 and N5 Pro are expected to launch in June, with a 30% discount available for users who sign up on the Minisforum website.

    Minisforum has just launched the MS-A2 mini workstation, offering early discounts to replace the MS-A1, which is currently priced at $239.99 on Amazon. In addition, the company has revealed some preliminary details about a new line of network attached storage (NAS) devices slated for release later this season. The Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro are expected to be quite powerful mini-PCs.

    Specifications and Performance

    Minisforum has confirmed that the N5 and N5 Pro will come equipped with up to AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 EEC SO-DIMM RAM, with 128 GB being “unofficially” possible. A representative from the company mentioned in a video that there is an option to add a discrete GPU through a PCIe x16 slot (PCIe 4.0 x4) or OCuLink.

    Features and Design

    The new NAS from Minisforum includes 5 Gbps (RTL8126) and 10 Gbps (AQC113) LAN ports, along with five drive slots in a compact 199 × 202 × 252 mm chassis. The device is designed with dual 92 mm rear fans that should operate at around 42 dB, even when under maximum load. Furthermore, Minisforum has stated that the N5 and N5 Pro will be compatible with various operating systems such as FreeBSD, TruNAS, and Unraid, among others.

    Release Information

    Currently, pricing and availability details are still unspecified. However, Minisforum has indicated that the N5 and N5 Pro are expected to launch in June. By providing an email address on the company’s website, users may also receive a 30% discount coupon before the official release.

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    Minisforum N5 Pro: Compact NAS with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

     

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  • PocketCloud Launches Portable Modular Alternative to Personal NAS

    PocketCloud Launches Portable Modular Alternative to Personal NAS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The PocketCloud features a sleek aluminum alloy body measuring 6 x 3.6 x 1 inches, with USB type-C and type-A ports, and an SD card slot.

    2. Modular Setup: It includes a modular design that supports M.2 NVMe SSDs, with speeds up to 1,625 Mb/s and a maximum capacity of 8TB, along with an optional Magnetic Dock with a 2.5Gb Ethernet port.

    3. Battery and Display: The device lasts up to 6 hours on a single charge, has replaceable dual 3,200mAh batteries, and features a built-in 0.96-inch color LCD with a control knob for easy operation.

    4. Compatibility and Backup: Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, the PocketCloud supports backup to Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive, and uses secure software for local access within a LAN.

    5. Kickstarter Availability: Currently on Kickstarter, the PocketCloud starts at $199, and the PocketCloud + Dock bundle is available for $289, with significant savings compared to the planned retail price.

    StationPC has introduced the PocketCloud, a fresh option for those seeking a personal NAS or a compact PC. This device sports a sleek aluminum alloy body measuring 6 x 3.6 x 1 inches, featuring both USB type-C and type-A ports, along with a slot for SD cards.

    Modular Design and Connectivity

    These ports are conveniently placed next to the magnetic pins of the new drive, designed to align with the optional Magnetic Dock that also incorporates a 2.5Gb Ethernet port. Each component of this modular setup can accommodate M.2 NVMe SSDs with speeds of up to 1,625 megabits per second (Mb/s) and a maximum capacity of 8TB, supporting transfer rates of about ~1,000Mb/s when using USB-C.

    Battery Life and Display Features

    When not docked, the PocketCloud is capable of lasting up to 6 hours on a single charge, thanks to its dual 3,200mAh batteries, which can be replaced to possibly extend the device’s overall lifespan. It features a built-in 0.96-inch color LCD and a control knob, reducing the need for additional monitors or peripherals.

    StationPC claims this device is the perfect partner for backing up a smartphone, camera, or laptop in real-time and consistently.

    Compatibility and Backup Options

    The PocketCloud is compatible with a variety of systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, and it can be configured to back up data to Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive. It operates on its own “smooth” software that prioritizes privacy and security, offering local log-in options within a LAN. However, this setup sacrifices the flexibility and customization typically associated with a personal NAS.

    Currently, the PocketCloud can be found on Kickstarter, with prices starting at $199, which is $100 less than its initial retail price. The PocketCloud + Dock bundle is available for $289, saving $139. However, adding an 8TB WD Black SN850X would set you back an additional $549.99 on Amazon as of now.

    The campaign has raised over 581,000 Hong Kong dollars (HKD), or nearly $75,000, far surpassing its initial goal of 30,000 HKD (around $3,900) on Kickstarter.

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    PocketCloud Launches Portable Modular Alternative to Personal NASPocketCloud Launches Portable Modular Alternative to Personal NAS

     

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  • Aoostar WTR Max: New 11-Bay NAS with AMD Ryzen APU and OCuLink

    Aoostar WTR Max: New 11-Bay NAS with AMD Ryzen APU and OCuLink

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: Aoostar has revealed the WTR Max NAS, available for pre-order at $699, with shipping expected in May 2025.

    2. Enhanced Performance: The WTR Max features a Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS processor, offering improved performance over the WTR Pro’s Intel N150, and supports an 11-bay configuration.

    3. Storage Capacity: The NAS includes seven physical bays, with six for 3.5-inch SATA drives and one with four M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, allowing for a total of 11 drives.

    4. Cooling System: The system is equipped with the Glacier Pro 1.0 cooling solution, featuring a VC heat spreader and dual cooling fans to manage the temperature of the APU and installed drives.

    5. User-Friendly Features: The WTR Max includes an integrated screen for real-time monitoring, a variety of connectivity ports including USB4, support for dual-channel RAM, and triple-display output.

    Aoostar has completely revealed the WTR Max, which was initially presented in China during the 2025 AMD Greater China Channel Conference. Although the company shared limited information about the system at the event, it has now opened up pre-orders for the NAS. Shipping is anticipated to begin in May, with the barebone model priced at $699.

    Upgraded Performance

    The WTR Max is an enhanced version of the WTR Pro, known for being a 4-bay NAS that features an Intel N150 at its peak. In contrast, the WTR Max is equipped with the Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS, a high-end option from the Hawk Point series. This newer system from Aoostar boasts an impressive 11-bay configuration.

    Storage Capacity

    Specifically, the WTR Max NAS includes seven physical bays, with six of them able to accommodate a 3.5-inch SATA drive each. The seventh bay is designed with four M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots (currently, a 4 TB Samsung 990 Pro is available for $279.99 on Amazon), and an internal PCIe 4.0 slot brings the total drive count to 11.

    The company emphasizes that the Ryzen APU is complemented by the Glacier Pro 1.0 cooling system. This cooling solution features a sizable VC heat spreader to maintain the APU’s temperature during demanding tasks, along with dual cooling fans positioned at the back to help cool the drives that are installed.

    User-Friendly Features

    Additionally, there’s an integrated screen that works alongside the company’s dedicated NAS control software, providing real-time data for monitoring the CPU, RAM, GPU, and other system components. The WTR Max from Aoostar also includes an OCuLink port, allowing users to expand storage via a hard drive enclosure or boost GPU performance with an eGPU.

    Other impressive features of the Aoostar WTR Max consist of a variety of connectivity ports, including a USB4 port, dual-channel RAM, an aluminum alloy chassis, and support for triple-display output. For further details about the system, you can check out the complete specification sheet linked below.

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    Aoostar WTR Max: New 11-Bay NAS with AMD Ryzen APU and OCuLinkAoostar WTR Max: New 11-Bay NAS with AMD Ryzen APU and OCuLink

     

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  • LincStation S1: Compact NAS with Dual 2.5G and 112TB Storage

    LincStation S1: Compact NAS with Dual 2.5G and 112TB Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. LincStation S1 NAS features an Intel N97 ‘Alder Lake-N’ processor with four cores and four threads for solid performance.
    2. It supports up to four 2.5-inch SATA drives and dual M.2 2280 NVMe slots, offering a total of 112 TB of raw storage.
    3. The S1 runs on Unraid OS and includes a starter license, but does not support 10 G networking, only offering dual 2.5 G.
    4. It comes with 128 GB of eMMC storage for the OS and 8 GB of DDR5 memory, along with multiple USB port options.
    5. Early backers on Kickstarter can receive a 30% discount off the retail price of $610, but should be aware of crowdfunding risks.

    LincStation has introduced a new NAS (Network-Attached Storage) called the S1. Although it’s not yet in the crowdfunding phase, it has been showcased on KickStarter. On paper, the S1 seems to have solid specifications. The retail price for the S1 NAS is set at $610, but early supporters on Kickstarter can enjoy a 30% discount.

    Core Features and Performance

    The LincStation S1 is driven by the Intel N97 ‘Alder Lake-N’ processor, featuring four cores and four threads. This setup should provide satisfactory performance for the system’s needs. Storage is, of course, a key feature for any NAS, and the S1 does not disappoint. It can accommodate four 2.5-inch drives (SATA 3.0) and has dual M.2 2280 slots (NVMe), totalling a possible 112 TB of raw storage. Actual usable space may vary depending on the parity configuration.

    Operating System and Connectivity

    This system runs on the well-known Unraid OS, and LincStation includes a starter license with each unit. However, the S1 does not offer 10 G networking—it instead comes with dual 2.5 G. For users who primarily need the S1 for archival purposes, the absence of 10G networking likely won’t be a major issue. The S1 NAS has 128 GB of eMMC storage dedicated to the OS and other utilities, along with 8 GB of DDR5 memory. The port options are quite good, featuring dual USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, Type-C, and USB 2.0 Type-A ports.

    Considerations for Backers

    As with all crowdfunding ventures, it’s important for potential backers to be cautious and aware of the risks before supporting the project. For those who don’t want to wait for the campaign to kick off, they might find the 4-bay Ugreen NASync DXP4800 NAS, which is available for $700 on Amazon, to be a better choice.

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  • UnifyDrive UT2: Compact NAS with 16TB NVMe Storage Coming Soon

    UnifyDrive UT2: Compact NAS with 16TB NVMe Storage Coming Soon

    UnifyDrive has launched the UT2, a convenient backup solution designed for creatives and professionals. It supports up to 16 TB of NVMe storage and includes AI-driven data management features, making it easier to handle large volumes of backup data. This compact NAS has more to offer beyond its core capabilities.

    One-Click Backup Feature

    The UT2 comes equipped with a one-click backup option, simplifying the process of backing up SD, CFe, and TF cards. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor photographers, as highlighted by the company. Additionally, there are other methods to back up your data to this portable NAS.

    Wireless and Wired Connectivity

    With its AP Mode, the UT2 allows wireless access to the storage. Alternatively, you can connect it to your local network using the Ethernet port. The device also supports syncing data from various cloud services. In terms of connectivity, the UT2 includes an HDMI port for local media playback, supporting up to 8K content.

    Specifications and Performance

    Internally, the UT2 is powered by the Rockchip RK3588C SoC, a variant of the chip used in SBCs like the Orange Pi 5 (Pro available on Amazon). It is coupled with 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 32 GB of eMMC storage. Thanks to its 6 TOPS NPU, UnifyDrive claims that the NAS can efficiently manage its built-in AI functions.

    Additional features include a built-in battery for seamless backups, WiFi 6 support, and a data transfer speed of up to 8 Gbps. The UnifyDrive UT2 is anticipated to launch on Kickstarter on September 25.

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