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In this guide
Network attached storage units provide reliable centralized data management for families and businesses seeking secure file access and media streaming capabilities.
We evaluated ten leading four bay models based on processor power network connectivity expandability and software ecosystem to identify the most capable solutions available today.
Each selection highlights distinct strengths from budget friendly entry points to high performance workstations with prices subject to change based on retailer promotions and demand.
Top 3 Picks for Best 4 Bay NAS
4.6Editor score
4.4Editor score
Top 10 Best 4 Bay NAS in 2026 Compared
This side by side comparison outlines key specifications and features across all ten selected network attached storage units to help you find the perfect match.
1. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT – Best Overall 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT stands out as the top choice for power users requiring robust performance and extensive connectivity options for professional workloads.
Pros
- Powerful AMD processor
- Dual 10GbE networking
- Expandable up to 64GB RAM
- Built-in surveillance center
- Comprehensive UGOS Pro software
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires separate drive purchase
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Equipped with an AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM this unit handles multitasking Docker applications and virtual machines with exceptional efficiency and stability.
While the price is higher than entry-level options the dual 10GbE networking ports and support for up to 64GB RAM justify the investment for demanding enterprise environments.
For creators and office teams needing fast data transfers and reliable security the DXP4800 GT delivers unmatched value and performance for serious NAS deployment scenarios.
High Performance Multitasking
The eight thread architecture ensures smooth handling of backups media processing and multi user workloads without latency or bottlenecks during critical operations.
Surveillance Center Integration
Built-in surveillance support allows you to connect compatible IP cameras and manage security footage locally without relying on cloud subscriptions or external hardware.
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2. Yxk Zero1 Pro – Best Budget 4 Bay NAS
The Yxk Zero1 Pro offers an excellent entry point into network attached storage with capable performance and user-friendly features at a remarkably competitive price point.
Pros
- Affordable entry price
- Intel N100 performance
- Beginner friendly setup
- Aluminum cooling design
- Docker and third-party OS support
Cons
- Limited to 8GB RAM
- Basic surveillance features
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Powered by the Intel N100 processor and 8GB RAM this unit handles everyday file sharing media streaming and photo backups effortlessly for most home and small office users.
Its aluminum housing and dual fan cooling system ensure stable operation during long transfers while the guided mobile app setup removes barriers for first-time NAS adopters.
Users seeking a reliable private cloud solution without breaking the bank will find the Zero1 Pro delivers essential performance and flexibility with room for future software expansion.
Beginner Friendly Setup
First time users can register and configure shared home storage for family files and photos quickly using the intuitive mobile application without custom OS setup.
Expandable Software Options
The x86 platform supports compatible Docker apps and allows experienced users to install third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid for greater flexibility.
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3. UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro – Best Premium 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro targets IT professionals and developers requiring workstation-level performance and advanced security features for complex network environments.
Pros
- Intel Core i3-1315U CPU
- DDR5 RAM support
- Dual high-speed networking
- Advanced AI photo management
- Enterprise-grade security
Cons
- High cost compared to entry-level
- Complex setup for beginners
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With an Intel Core i3-1315U processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM this model excels at running virtual machines Docker containers and large scale media transcoding without slowdowns.
Its dual high-speed networking ports and 144TB capacity allow for seamless handling of massive datasets and high-resolution video files directly from the storage unit.
Organizations needing granular user permissions robust encryption and reliable data redundancy will appreciate the professional-grade tools and privacy certifications built into this premium system.
Pro-Grade Core Hardware
The 13th Gen Intel processor paired with DDR5 RAM provides significant performance lead for multitasking virtualization and demanding workflows across various user types.
Enterprise-Grade Security
Granular permission controls and ETSI certified data protection ensure sensitive files remain secure while allowing flexible access for authorized team members remotely.
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4. TERRAMASTER F4-425 – Reliable 4 Bay NAS
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 provides a solid balance of performance and affordability for home users needing a media server and file backup solution.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- 4K transcoding support
- Tool-free drive installation
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Flexible TRAID arrays
Cons
- Only 4GB RAM
- Basic management interface
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Its Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM handle 4K video transcoding and multi-user file access smoothly making it suitable for streaming and document sharing.
Design features like tool-free push-lock drive trays and ultra-quiet operation make it easy to place in living rooms or offices without disturbing household activities.
Homeowners seeking a simple yet effective storage hub will find the F4-425 delivers necessary functionality and quiet reliability for everyday file management tasks.
Home Multimedia Hub
Hardware-level 4K decoding ensures smooth video playback on Plex and Jellyfin clients while AI photo apps organize family photos efficiently.
Ultra-Quiet Design
Operating at just 21dB the unit runs quietly in bedrooms or offices allowing uninterrupted work or rest while data transfers occur in the background.
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5. Synology DS425+ – Enterprise 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS425+ is designed for small offices needing robust file sharing and surveillance capabilities with enterprise-level data protection and management tools.
Pros
- Synology DiskStation Manager
- Centralized repository features
- Multi-layered data protection
- 30 IP camera support
- Dedicated account management
Cons
- Higher cost than budget models
- RAM not easily expandable
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Its optimized system ensures file transfers at 278 MB/s allowing concurrent access for ten users or more without performance degradation during peak business hours.
Granular access controls and audit logs provide necessary security for client documents and media assets while automated backups prevent loss from accidental deletions.
Business owners prioritizing data integrity and scalable file management will value the DS425+ comprehensive security and centralized control features for daily operations.
Team Productivity
High-speed shared file access and media streaming enable collaborative workflows and office productivity without relying on external cloud storage subscriptions.
Professional Surveillance
Support for up to thirty IP cameras with motion detection allows the NAS to function as a complete security storage and monitoring platform.
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6. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus – Family 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus serves families and small teams with high-capacity storage and advanced AI features for automated photo and video management.
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Super-fast transfers
- AI photo organization
- 2-year warranty
- Compatible with major brands
Cons
- Requires separate drive purchase
- No Wi-Fi support
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Its Intel N97 processor and 16GB RAM enable smooth running of Docker and virtual machines while 10GbE networking ensures rapid backup transfers for large media files.
Advanced encryption and flexible permissions keep data private during collaboration and the AI album automatically organizes photos to save storage space manually.
Families seeking a private cloud alternative to monthly subscriptions will appreciate the centralized storage and reliable remote access across all their devices.
AI-Powered Photo Album
Automatic recognition of faces and scenes organizes memories instantly while duplicate removal maximizes available storage capacity efficiently.
Super-Fast Transfers
Back up 1GB of data in under a second using the 10GbE network port or USB ports for rapid recovery and sync processes.
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7. UGREEN DH4300 Plus – Beginner 4 Bay NAS
The UGREEN DH4300 Plus is an entry-level 4-bay NAS that simplifies the transition from cloud storage to a secure private cloud for home and remote users.
Pros
- Entry-level pricing
- Smart photo backup
- NFC quick connect
- Secure private cloud
- Cost-effective storage
Cons
- No virtual machine support
- Limited to 128TB capacity
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It handles family photo backups and AI album organization with ease while the 2.5GbE port ensures decent file transfer speeds for typical household data needs.
Its certification for strong data privacy and one-time purchase cost provide a secure alternative to expensive annual cloud subscription services over time.
Beginners and remote workers needing simple file access from any device will find the DH4300 Plus user-friendly features and reliable performance meet their requirements.
Smart Photo Backup
Real-time automatic backup of phone photos and videos keeps family memories safe and organized with intelligent duplicate removal capabilities.
Cost-Effective Storage
Unlike recurring cloud fees this one-time purchase device offers long-term value saving users thousands over ten years of continuous use.
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8. Synology DS925+ – Reliable 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS925+ provides a reliable storage solution for small offices and homes requiring consistent performance and redundancy through dual network ports.
Pros
- Solid build quality
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- File and photo management
- Surveillance solutions
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- 4GB RAM limit
- Limited upgrade paths
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Its quad-core processor supports stable data transfers and media streaming while built-in surveillance features allow integration with IP cameras for security monitoring.
The comprehensive DiskStation Manager interface makes managing file permissions backups and virtualization straightforward for users of all technical skill levels.
Users valuing long-term hardware support and stable software updates will appreciate the five-year warranty and consistent ecosystem support offered by Synology.
Dual Network Ports
Two 2.5GbE ports offer fast transfer speeds and increased redundancy ensuring reliable connectivity for critical business data and media streaming.
File Management
Built-in tools handle file organization and virtualization tasks efficiently allowing users to run applications directly on the storage device.
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9. Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 – Value 4 Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 offers an efficient budget-friendly storage unit with upgraded network speeds and enterprise-grade data protection features.
Pros
- Optimized quad-core performance
- 2.5GbE upgrade
- Enterprise-grade protection
- 4K streaming support
- Personal cloud features
Cons
- Limited 1GB RAM
- Slower app performance
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Its quad-core processor handles daily storage needs while the 2.5GbE port provides faster file transfers than traditional Gigabit systems for smoother media streaming.
Enterprise-grade protection via Btrfs snapshots and WORM technology secures files against ransomware and accidental deletion ensuring critical documents remain immutable.
Cost-conscious users needing robust security and decent performance for home media centers will find the Drivestor 4 Gen 2 meets their essential requirements well.
Optimized Quad-Core
The Realtek RTD1619B processor ensures smooth multitasking and fast processing for daily storage tasks and media streaming efficiently.
Data Protection
Btrfs snapshots allow restoring data to previous points instantly while WORM technology keeps critical files safe from unauthorized changes.
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10. Synology DS423 – Secure 4 Bay NAS
The Synology DS423 delivers secure file sharing and backup capabilities for families and businesses needing reliable data protection and surveillance management.
Pros
- Secure private cloud
- Comprehensive data protection
- Versatile video surveillance
- File server features
- Ransomware-resistant backup
Cons
- Only 1GbE networking
- Lower RAM capacity
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Its Intel Celeron processor handles file transfers and media sharing while the comprehensive data protection suite safeguards against malware and accidental loss effectively.
Granular permissions and remote access ensure secure collaboration for teams and the surveillance system supports up to thirty cameras for extensive security coverage.
Families prioritizing security and comprehensive backup strategies will find the DS423 offers necessary tools for safe data storage and reliable recovery options.
Secure Private Cloud
Safely access and share files from anywhere ensuring partners and collaborators stay aligned with secure remote file sharing features.
Data Protection
Immutable snapshots and versioned files protect against ransomware ensuring business documents and family memories remain recoverable at all times.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 4 Bay NAS
Selecting the right 4 bay NAS involves evaluating hardware performance software features and security capabilities to match your specific storage needs.
Processor Performance
A powerful CPU ensures smooth multitasking and faster file transfers especially when running virtual machines or heavy media transcoding tasks simultaneously.
Look for quad-core or higher processors like Intel N100 or AMD Ryzen for efficient performance in demanding workloads.
Memory Capacity
RAM determines how many applications can run concurrently and affects overall system responsiveness during data processing and backup operations.
Units with 8GB RAM offer more headroom for Docker containers and virtual machines than models limited to 4GB RAM.
Network Connectivity
Gigabit Ethernet is standard but 2.5GbE or 10GbE ports significantly increase transfer speeds essential for large file backups or professional media workflows.
Choose models with dual network ports if redundancy and link aggregation are needed for improved reliability and throughput.
Storage Capacity
Most 4 bay units support up to 120TB to 144TB total depending on drive sizes and RAID configuration options provided by the manufacturer.
Verify maximum supported drive sizes and whether M.2 NVMe slots are available for caching to boost performance.
Operating System
User-friendly interfaces like Synology DSM or UGOS Pro simplify setup and management reducing the learning curve for new users significantly.
Prioritize systems with regular updates strong community support and intuitive mobile apps for remote administration needs.
Data Protection
Look for features like snapshot technology RAID support and encryption to prevent data loss from hardware failure ransomware or accidental deletion.
Security certifications and regular firmware patches indicate a vendor committed to protecting your sensitive data long-term.
Expansion Options
Check for USB ports HDMI outputs and SSD expansion units if you plan to connect external drives or directly stream media to a TV.
Support for third-party operating systems increases flexibility if you prefer custom software environments later on.
Warranty Support
A solid warranty period typically two to five years ensures hardware reliability and access to technical support when issues arise unexpectedly.
Choose brands with responsive customer service and accessible documentation to resolve configuration problems quickly and efficiently.
How to Use and Care for Your 4 Bay NAS
Install your hard drives into the bays using the tool-free trays and connect the unit to your router via Ethernet cable for initial network setup.
Download the manufacturer's mobile app or access the web interface to configure RAID arrays user accounts and automatic backup schedules for your devices.
Regularly update the firmware to patch security vulnerabilities and check drive health reports to proactively replace any failing components before data loss occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 4 Bay NAS?
A 4 Bay NAS is a network attached storage device with four drive slots allowing users to store vast amounts of data securely and access files over a network remotely.
Can I upgrade the RAM?
Some models support RAM upgrades while others have soldered memory. Check the product specifications to confirm if the RAM is expandable or fixed for your chosen unit.
Do I need to buy hard drives separately?
Most 4 Bay NAS units are sold diskless meaning you must purchase compatible hard drives or SSDs separately to store your data on the system.
What is RAID and why is it important?
RAID combines multiple drives for redundancy or speed. It protects data if a drive fails by distributing information across disks allowing for recovery without total loss.
Can I access my files from anywhere?
Yes most 4 Bay NAS units offer remote access via secure apps or web interfaces allowing you to retrieve files from outside your home or office network.
How much data can a 4 Bay NAS hold?
Typical models support up to 120TB or 144TB of total storage depending on the drive sizes used and the RAID configuration chosen for redundancy.
Is a NAS better than cloud storage?
A NAS offers one-time purchase cost and full data ownership which is more cost effective long-term compared to recurring monthly fees for large cloud storage plans.
Can I run media servers like Plex on a NAS?
Most units support Plex and similar media server software allowing you to organize and stream your movies and music library to connected devices easily.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 4 Bay NAS
The top picks highlighted above offer diverse performance and security features suitable for home users small offices and professional teams alike.
Consider your priorities such as network speed capacity needs and software ecosystem when narrowing down which model fits your specific workflow best.
Prices fluctuate regularly so verify current availability and deals before purchasing to ensure you get the best value for your storage investment.