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Choosing the best NAS storage for small businesses involves balancing performance, ease of use, and budget. The Synology DiskStation DS925+ stands out for its robust features and scalability, making it ideal for growing teams. The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers impressive network speeds and multimedia capabilities, perfect for media-heavy workflows. However, tradeoffs include higher costs or complexity for some models. Continue reading for an in-depth comparison that will help you find the right fit for your business needs.

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10
compared
3
brands
6
model numbers
3 years
max warranty
Which NAS storage for small businesse should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2
Best Overall for Small Business Beginners
Creates a private cloud for secure data access and sharing
See on Amazon →
Small media production teams or businesses needing high-speed file access and hardware transcoding.
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6
Dual 5GbE ports for fast network throughput
View on Amazon →
Small businesses planning to scale storage over time and comfortable with setup complexity.
Synology DiskStation DS925+
Supports high-speed data transfer with dual 2.5GbE ports
View on Amazon →
Small offices needing reliable media streaming, data backup, and security camera integration.
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud
Supports 4K media streaming and hardware transcoding
View on Amazon →
Small offices or home users seeking easy data centralization and secure sharing without advanced features.
Synology DS223 Home & Office 2
Easy to centralize and access data across devices
View on Amazon →
Warranty — compared
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS22 years
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS63 years
Synology DiskStation DS925+3 years
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud 3 years
Synology DS223 Home & Office 22 years
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud 3 years
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials3 years
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS683 years
Pros & cons at a glance
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2
✓ Creates a private cloud for secure data access and sharing
✗ Requires network setup and configuration, which may be intimidating for beginners
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6
✓ Dual 5GbE ports for fast network throughput
✗ No included hard drives, requiring additional purchase and setup
Synology DiskStation DS925+
✓ Supports high-speed data transfer with dual 2.5GbE ports
✗ Requires purchasing and installing drives separately
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud
✓ Supports 4K media streaming and hardware transcoding
✗ Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
Synology DS223 Home & Office 2
✓ Easy to centralize and access data across devices
✗ Limited to 2 drive bays, not suitable for large storage needs
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud
✓ High-speed data transfer with 2.5GbE connectivity
✗ Requires technical setup knowledge
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials
✓ Includes pre-tested hard drives for immediate use
✗ Limited to 5400 rpm drives, possibly slower access
Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStat
✓ Supports flexible storage configurations with SHR
✗ Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting expansion
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS68
✓ Powerful AMD Ryzen processor for demanding tasks
✗ Requires additional drives for storage capacity
Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS
✓ Expandable up to 140TB with DX525 expansion
✗ Requires additional expansion unit for maximum capacity

Complete the kit

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Key Takeaways

  • The top-tier models like the Synology DS925+ combine performance and expandability, making them suitable for future growth.
  • Budget-friendly options such as the Synology DS223 Home & Office provide solid basic features for smaller teams or home-based businesses.
  • Network speed features like dual 5GbE ports are critical for media-heavy or high-traffic environments.
  • Ease of setup and management vary widely; models with intuitive interfaces save time and reduce frustration.
  • Including pre-installed drives can be a cost-effective way for small businesses to get started quickly, but flexibility in choosing drives is also important.
2
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6
Best for High Performance and Media Content Creation
1
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2
Best Overall for Small Business Beginners
3
Synology DiskStation DS925+
Best for Growing Storage Needs with Scalability

Our Top Best NAS Storage For Small Businesses Picks

Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)Best Overall for Small Business BeginnersBrand: SynologyModel Number: DS223jNumber of Bays: 2VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media ServerAsustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media ServerBest for High Performance and Media Content CreationProcessor: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-coreMemory: 4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GBStorage Bays: 4VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NASSynology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NASBest for Growing Storage Needs with ScalabilityModel Number: DS925+Brand: SynologyNumber of Bays: 4VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware TranscodingSynology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server - 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware TranscodingBest for Media Streaming and Surveillance IntegrationBrand: SynologyModel Number: DS225+Number of Bays: 2VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NASSynology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NASBest Entry-Level NAS for Small Offices and HomesBrand: SynologyModel Number: DS223Number of Items: 1VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NASSynology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server - 4-Bay Diskless NASBest Overall for Small Business Data and SurveillanceBrand: SynologyModel Number: DS425+Number of Bays: 4VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives IncludedBUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives IncludedBest Value for Ready-to-Use Small Business StorageDigital Storage Capacity: 16 TBHard Disk Interface: Serial ATA-600Connectivity Technology: EthernetVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS Bundle with 8TB (2x 4TB Seagate IronWolf)Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS Bundle with 8TB (2x 4TB Seagate IronWolf)Best for Small Office with Limited Space and BudgetProcessor: Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-CoreMemory: 2 GB DDR4, expandable to 6 GBNetwork Ports: 1 x 2.5 GbE, 1 x 1 GbEVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T 4-Bay NASAsustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T 4-Bay NASBest for Creators and Power Users Requiring High PerformanceOperating System: ASUSTOR Data Master (ADM)Processor Speed: 3.8 GHzMemory Capacity: 16 GB ECC DDR5VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage – 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small BusinessSynology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage - 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small BusinessBest for Growing Small Business with Expandable CapacityBrand: SynologyModel Number: DS725+Number of Bays: 2 (expandable to 7 with DX525)VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
NAS storage for small businesseWarrantyBrandModel NumberNumber of Bays
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS22 yearsSynologyDS223j2
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS63 years
Synology DiskStation DS925+3 yearsSynologyDS925+4
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud 3 yearsSynologyDS225+2
Synology DS223 Home & Office 22 yearsSynologyDS223
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud 3 yearsSynologyDS425+4
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials3 years
Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStat
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS683 years
Synology DS725+ Expandable NASSynologyDS725+2 (expandable to 7 with DX525)

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)

    Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)

    Best Overall for Small Business Beginners

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS223j stands out for its simplicity and reliable data sharing, making it a strong choice for small businesses just starting to build a private cloud. While it lacks the storage capacity of larger NAS models like the Synology DS925+, its energy-efficient design and straightforward setup appeal to users prioritizing ease of use over expansion. Compared with the DS925+, it doesn’t support multiple drives or extensive scalability, but it excels in providing secure, automated backups and surveillance features in a compact form. The absence of pre-installed drives means additional upfront investment, but this allows customization based on needs. Overall, this model is perfect for small teams that need reliable, secure access without the complexity of larger systems.

    Pros:
    • Creates a private cloud for secure data access and sharing
    • Supports automated backups across multiple devices
    • Includes surveillance capabilities with IP camera support
    • Energy-efficient and quiet operation
    Cons:
    • Requires network setup and configuration, which may be intimidating for beginners
    • Limited to two drive bays, restricting storage expansion
    • No pre-installed drives, leading to additional costs

    Best for: Small businesses or home office users new to NAS who want easy setup and reliable data sharing.

    Not ideal for: Growing businesses needing large storage or advanced scalability, since it only has two bays and no pre-installed drives.

    • Brand:Synology
    • Model Number:DS223j
    • Number of Bays:2
    • Warranty:2 years
    • UPC:846504004768
    • Unit Count:1
    Our verdict
    “This NAS makes a compelling choice for small or new businesses seeking simple, secure data management without the need for large storage capacity.”
  2. Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server

    Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server

    Best for High Performance and Media Content Creation

    View Latest Price

    The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ targets small businesses with demanding multimedia needs, thanks to its powerful Intel quad-core processor and dual 5GbE ports. Compared with the Synology DS925+, it offers faster network speeds and hardware transcoding, making it ideal for media streaming, video editing, or content-heavy workflows. Its support for hybrid storage—combining HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe cache—provides flexibility for performance tuning, although it requires the user to handle disk selection and setup, unlike pre-configured solutions. The 4-bay design balances capacity with manageability, but the lack of included drives and a potentially complex setup may challenge less technical users. This model suits media-centric small businesses or creative teams seeking high-speed data handling and multimedia capabilities.

    Pros:
    • Dual 5GbE ports for fast network throughput
    • Supports hybrid storage with HDD, SSD, and NVMe cache
    • Hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output for media playback
    • Expandable RAM up to 16GB for performance tuning
    Cons:
    • No included hard drives, requiring additional purchase and setup
    • Complex configuration may be daunting for users without technical experience
    • Limited to 4 drive bays, restricting maximum storage capacity

    Best for: Small media production teams or businesses needing high-speed file access and hardware transcoding.

    Not ideal for: Businesses seeking plug-and-play simplicity or large-scale storage, as it involves technical setup and no included drives.

    • Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
    • Memory:4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB
    • Storage Bays:4
    • Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
    • Video Output:HDMI
    • Warranty:3 years
    Our verdict
    “This NAS is ideal for small businesses focused on media content creation or requiring high-speed multimedia streaming.”
  3. Synology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NAS

    Synology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NAS

    Best for Growing Storage Needs with Scalability

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS925+ offers a scalable 4-bay design that appeals to small businesses expecting to expand their data storage. Its support for up to nine drives with an expansion unit sets it apart from more limited models like the DS225+. Equipped with dual 2.5GbE ports and NVMe slots for caching, it balances performance with flexibility. However, the unit’s diskless setup means additional drives are needed, which adds to initial costs and setup complexity, especially for beginners. Compared to the DS225+, it provides higher capacity potential, but with the tradeoff of a more involved setup process. This makes it suitable for growing companies with evolving storage demands but who are comfortable with some technical configuration.

    Pros:
    • Supports high-speed data transfer with dual 2.5GbE ports
    • Expandable storage capacity up to nine drives
    • Runs Synology DiskStation Manager for versatile data management
    • Includes NVMe slots for caching acceleration
    Cons:
    • Requires purchasing and installing drives separately
    • Setup and configuration may be complex for novices
    • No included drives, adding to initial investment

    Best for: Small businesses planning to scale storage over time and comfortable with setup complexity.

    Not ideal for: Startups or very small teams with limited technical resources, due to its initial configuration needs.

    • Model Number:DS925+
    • Brand:Synology
    • Number of Bays:4
    • Supports Expansion:Up to 9 drives
    • Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
    • Warranty:3 years
    Our verdict
    “This NAS suits growing small businesses that need scalable storage and have some technical expertise to handle setup.”
  4. Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding

    Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server - 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding

    Best for Media Streaming and Surveillance Integration

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS225+ combines media streaming power with surveillance support, making it a flexible choice for small offices or media-focused environments. Its Intel CPU enables hardware transcoding, supporting 4K media streaming, which sets it apart from lower-powered models like the DS223. With transfer speeds of 282 MB/s and support for up to 30 IP cameras, it caters to users needing robust multimedia and security features. However, its 2-bay design limits total storage, and setup can be complex for users unfamiliar with NAS configurations. Since it does not include drives, the initial cost can be higher. This model is perfect for small businesses prioritizing media workflows and surveillance in one device.

    Pros:
    • Supports 4K media streaming and hardware transcoding
    • Fast data transfer speed of 282 MB/s
    • Supports up to 30 IP cameras for surveillance
    • Multi-layered data protection including RAID and snapshots
    Cons:
    • Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
    • Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting maximum storage capacity
    • No drives included, additional costs apply

    Best for: Small offices needing reliable media streaming, data backup, and security camera integration.

    Not ideal for: Businesses with large storage needs or those seeking a simple, plug-and-play solution, because of setup complexity.

    • Brand:Synology
    • Model Number:DS225+
    • Number of Bays:2
    • Processor:Intel CPU
    • Transfer Speed:282 MB/s
    • Supports Cameras:Up to 30 IP cameras
    • Warranty:3 years
    Our verdict
    “This NAS is well-suited for small offices needing media-rich workflows combined with security monitoring, despite setup complexity.”
  5. Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS

    Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS

    Best Entry-Level NAS for Small Offices and Homes

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS223 offers a straightforward, affordable entry point into NAS for small businesses and home offices. Its compact design and user-friendly setup make it ideal for centralizing data and creating a private cloud, similar to the DS223j, but with a focus on basic media and backup functions. While it shares the 2-bay configuration, it’s slightly more geared toward users who want a simple, reliable device without complex features like extensive surveillance or multimedia transcoding. As with other diskless models, it requires users to source drives separately, which can be a barrier for some. Overall, it’s a good choice for those who need basic data sharing and backup with minimal fuss.

    Pros:
    • Easy to centralize and access data across devices
    • Supports private cloud setup and file sharing
    • Includes surveillance features with IP camera support
    • Compact and energy-efficient design
    Cons:
    • Limited to 2 drive bays, not suitable for large storage needs
    • Setup and optimization require some technical knowledge
    • No included drives; additional purchase needed

    Best for: Small offices or home users seeking easy data centralization and secure sharing without advanced features.

    Not ideal for: Businesses with large storage requirements or complex surveillance needs, due to limited bays and features.

    • Brand:Synology
    • Model Number:DS223
    • Number of Items:1
    • Unit Count:1
    • Warranty:2 years
    • UPC:846504004775
    Our verdict
    “This NAS provides a simple, cost-effective solution for small businesses or home offices focused on basic data management.”
  6. Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS

    Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server - 4-Bay Diskless NAS

    Best Overall for Small Business Data and Surveillance

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS425+ excels as a versatile, high-performance NAS that handles data sharing, backups, and surveillance with ease. Its support for 2.5GbE networking outperforms many competitors like the Buffalo TeraStation, offering faster transfer rates crucial for busy small offices. While it demands some technical setup and doesn’t include disks, its comprehensive data protection features—RAID, snapshots, and backups—make it a strong choice for businesses prioritizing security. Compared to the Synology DS225+, it provides higher capacity and multi-user support, but at a potentially higher cost and complexity. This makes it ideal for small businesses with in-house IT resources looking for robust, scalable storage. Its main tradeoff is the need for technical knowledge to set up and maintain the system.

    Pros:
    • High-speed data transfer with 2.5GbE connectivity
    • Supports multiple users with concurrent access
    • Robust data protection via RAID, snapshots, and backups
    • Versatile for data sharing, backup, and surveillance
    Cons:
    • Requires technical setup knowledge
    • No pre-installed disks included
    • Potentially higher cost for advanced features

    Best for: Small businesses with dedicated IT staff needing reliable, expandable storage and surveillance capabilities.

    Not ideal for: Small businesses without technical expertise or those seeking plug-and-play solutions at a lower cost.

    • Brand:Synology
    • Model Number:DS425+
    • Number of Bays:4
    • Connectivity:2.5GbE
    • Warranty:3 years
    • UPC:846504005994
    Our verdict
    “This NAS is best suited for small businesses with in-house IT capabilities that need scalable, secure storage and surveillance features.”
  7. BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives Included

    BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 4-Bay Desktop NAS 16TB with Hard Drives Included

    Best Value for Ready-to-Use Small Business Storage

    View Latest Price

    The BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 2025 offers an attractive package with 16TB of pre-installed hard drives, making it a straightforward choice for small offices needing quick setup. Its 2.5GbE connection ensures fast local data transfer, while RAID support helps protect against drive failures. Compared with the Synology DS425+, it emphasizes ease of deployment over advanced features, lacking the same level of surveillance or multi-user complexity. While the included drives are a plus, the 5400 rpm speed may result in slower data access compared to higher RPM drives. It’s ideal for small teams wanting a ready-to-go solution without technical fuss but may fall short for those needing advanced or expandable configurations.

    Pros:
    • Includes pre-tested hard drives for immediate use
    • Fast 2.5GbE data transfer rate
    • Supports RAID for data redundancy
    • Cloud integration with Amazon S3, Dropbox
    Cons:
    • Limited to 5400 rpm drives, possibly slower access
    • Designed mainly for small office use, lacks advanced features
    • No hardware transcoding or virtualization support

    Best for: Small businesses seeking a simple, pre-configured storage solution with included drives and fast network connectivity.

    Not ideal for: Businesses requiring high-performance drives or advanced surveillance integrations, as it prioritizes ease over enterprise features.

    • Digital Storage Capacity:16 TB
    • Hard Disk Interface:Serial ATA-600
    • Connectivity Technology:Ethernet
    • Hard Drive Rotational Speed:5400 rpm
    • Warranty:3 years
    • Form Factor:3.5-inch
    Our verdict
    “This NAS is perfect for small businesses that want a simple, out-of-the-box storage system with fast networking and included drives.”
  8. Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS Bundle with 8TB (2x 4TB Seagate IronWolf)

    Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS Bundle with 8TB (2x 4TB Seagate IronWolf)

    Best for Small Office with Limited Space and Budget

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS225+ is ideal for small offices or home-based businesses needing reliable storage without complexity. Its dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports deliver fast network performance, and support for SHR allows flexible drives configurations. Compared to larger NAS units like the DS425+, it offers less expandability but remains highly capable for small-scale needs. The limited 2-bay design restricts overall capacity, and the 2GB RAM might be limiting for heavy multitasking or advanced workloads. This makes it a good fit for users comfortable with NAS setup and looking for a cost-effective, compact solution that still provides advanced data protection.

    Pros:
    • Supports flexible storage configurations with SHR
    • Fast dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports
    • Includes advanced data protection features
    • Compact and energy-efficient design
    Cons:
    • Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting expansion
    • Memory expandable only up to 6 GB
    • Requires NAS familiarity for optimal setup

    Best for: Small offices or home users needing reliable, expandable storage with good network performance and data protection.

    Not ideal for: Businesses with high storage demands or requiring extensive virtualizations or surveillance features, due to limited bays and RAM.

    • Processor:Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core
    • Memory:2 GB DDR4, expandable to 6 GB
    • Network Ports:1 x 2.5 GbE, 1 x 1 GbE
    • Drive Bays:2
    • Supported Drives:SATA hard drives or SSDs
    • Included Storage:8TB (2x 4TB)
    Our verdict
    “This NAS suits small teams seeking reliable, flexible storage in a compact form factor with good network speed.”
  9. Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T 4-Bay NAS

    Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T 4-Bay NAS

    Best for Creators and Power Users Requiring High Performance

    View Latest Price

    The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen3 AS6804T stands out with its AMD Ryzen 3.8GHz quad-core processor and 16GB ECC DDR5 RAM, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing, virtualization, and AI workloads. Its four M.2 NVMe slots provide expandability for caching, and dual 5GbE & 10GbE ports ensure fast, flexible connectivity. In comparison to the Synology DS425+, it offers significantly more processing power and expandability but comes without drives, adding to the initial cost. Its complexity might be daunting for less experienced users, and the need to purchase drives separately could increase overall investment. This model is best for professional environments where high performance and expandability outweigh simplicity.

    Pros:
    • Powerful AMD Ryzen processor for demanding tasks
    • High-capacity 16GB ECC DDR5 RAM
    • Multiple M.2 NVMe slots for caching and expansion
    • Dual 5GbE & 10GbE ports for fast network connectivity
    Cons:
    • Requires additional drives for storage capacity
    • Complex setup process for beginners
    • Additional cost for drives increases total investment

    Best for: Creative professionals or small businesses needing high-performance storage for editing, virtualization, and AI tasks.

    Not ideal for: Small offices with limited technical support seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play solution.

    • Operating System:ASUSTOR Data Master (ADM)
    • Processor Speed:3.8 GHz
    • Memory Capacity:16 GB ECC DDR5
    • Network Ports:Dual 5GbE & 10GbE
    • Hard Disk Interface:NVMe
    • Warranty:3 years
    Our verdict
    “This NAS is ideal for tech-savvy small businesses or creators needing powerful, expandable storage for intensive workflows.”
  10. Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage – 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small Business

    Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage - 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small Business

    Best for Growing Small Business with Expandable Capacity

    View Latest Price

    The Synology DS725+ is designed for small businesses anticipating growth, with support for expansion up to 140TB using the DX525 expansion unit. Its RAID redundancy, snapshots, and automated backups provide layered data security. Unlike the Buffalo TeraStation, which comes fully equipped, the DS725+ offers more flexibility but requires an additional investment for expansion. Its complex setup might challenge beginners, but for those comfortable with NAS ecosystems, it provides excellent scalability and surveillance support, including 30 IP cameras. This pick makes sense for businesses planning for future growth and needing a reliable, expandable private cloud.

    Pros:
    • Expandable up to 140TB with DX525 expansion
    • Supports multiple data protection options including RAID and snapshots
    • Ideal for surveillance with support for 30 IP cameras
    • Flexible storage management and backup options
    Cons:
    • Requires additional expansion unit for maximum capacity
    • Complex setup for those unfamiliar with NAS configurations
    • Higher initial price point for full capabilities

    Best for: Small and growing businesses seeking scalable storage with multi-layer protection and surveillance capabilities.

    Not ideal for: Organizations needing immediate large capacity without additional hardware investments or those unfamiliar with NAS expansion units.

    • Brand:Synology
    • Model Number:DS725+
    • Number of Bays:2 (expandable to 7 with DX525)
    • Storage Capacity:Up to 140TB with expansion
    • Supported Drives:Diskless
    • Features:RAID, snapshots, multi-site surveillance
    Our verdict
    “This NAS suits small businesses looking to grow their storage while maintaining strong data protection and surveillance features.”
best NAS storage for small businesses
What makes a great NAS storage for small businesse
1
Performance and Network Speed
For small businesses that handle large files or need frequent access from multiple users, network speed and data transfer rates ar
2
Scalability and Storage Capacity
Anticipate your business growth by choosing NAS units that support expansion.
3
Ease of Use and Management
A user-friendly interface and straightforward setup are essential for small teams without dedicated IT staff.
4
Security and Data Protection
Data security is non-negotiable for most small businesses.
How to choose your NAS storage for small businesse
1
How we picked
I evaluated these NAS units based on performance metrics, ease of setup, build quality, expandability, and overall value
2
Performance and Network Speed
For small businesses that handle large files or need frequent access from multiple users, network speed and data transfe
3
Scalability and Storage Capacity
Anticipate your business growth by choosing NAS units that support expansion.
4
Ease of Use and Management
A user-friendly interface and straightforward setup are essential for small teams without dedicated IT staff.
5
Security and Data Protection
Data security is non-negotiable for most small businesses.
Vetted NAS storage for small businesses ·
The best NAS storage for small businesses, compared
★ Winner Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2
Best Overall for Small Business Beginners
10compared
3 yearstop warranty
6model numbers

How We Picked

I evaluated these NAS units based on performance metrics, ease of setup, build quality, expandability, and overall value for small business use. Priority was given to models that balance affordability with features necessary for data sharing, backups, and media streaming. I also considered user interface simplicity and maintenance requirements, as small businesses benefit from straightforward management. The ranking reflects a combination of technical specs, user experience, and how well each model caters to different small business scenarios, from startups to growing enterprises.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which NAS storage for small businesse fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best NAS Storage For Small Businesses

Selecting the best NAS storage for your small business involves understanding several key factors. These include performance capabilities, scalability options, ease of use, and cost. Small businesses often need a solution that can handle daily backups, file sharing, and media streaming without overwhelming their team with complexity or high costs. Knowing what tradeoffs exist in terms of features versus budget can help you make a smarter choice tailored to your specific needs.

Performance and Network Speed

For small businesses that handle large files or need frequent access from multiple users, network speed and data transfer rates are vital. Look for models with dual gigabit or 10GbE ports, which can significantly reduce wait times during data transfers. Failing to consider network capabilities may bottleneck your workflows, especially if you rely on media servers or remote access.

Scalability and Storage Capacity

Anticipate your business growth by choosing NAS units that support expansion. Some models offer additional drive bays or the ability to connect external storage, which can save money in the long run. Skipping this consideration might mean replacing your device sooner or facing capacity limitations as your data needs increase.

Ease of Use and Management

A user-friendly interface and straightforward setup are essential for small teams without dedicated IT staff. Some NAS units come with mobile apps or web portals that simplify management tasks. Overly complex systems, even if powerful, can lead to frustration and increase maintenance time.

Cost and Included Features

While staying within budget is tempting, focusing solely on upfront costs can be shortsighted. Consider whether the NAS includes necessary features like pre-installed drives, backup software, or multimedia support. Sometimes investing a bit more upfront results in better performance, longer lifespan, and lower total cost of ownership.

Security and Data Protection

Data security is non-negotiable for most small businesses. Look for NAS devices with built-in encryption, malware protection, and reliable backup options. Neglecting these features might expose your sensitive information to breaches or data loss, which can be costly in both reputation and finances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a NAS for remote access and collaboration?

Yes, most modern NAS devices support remote access through secure connections and mobile apps. This capability enables your team to collaborate from anywhere, access files, and work remotely without compromising security. However, setting up remote access requires proper configuration, including VPNs or encrypted connections, to keep your data safe from external threats.

How much should I expect to pay for a reliable small business NAS?

Prices vary based on features, capacity, and brand. Entry-level models can start around $300-$500, typically without drives included. Mid-range units with better performance and scalability generally fall in the $600-$1,200 range. Investing in a more capable device often pays off by reducing maintenance and future upgrade costs, especially if your business relies heavily on data sharing or media streaming.

Is it better to buy a diskless NAS or one with drives included?

Opting for a diskless NAS provides flexibility to choose drives that meet your specific needs, such as higher capacity or faster speeds. Pre-installed drives can be more convenient initially and sometimes come with warranties, but they might limit your options or increase upfront costs. For small businesses that want tailored storage solutions, starting with a diskless model often makes more sense, especially if you already have drives on hand.

What features are most important for a small business NAS?

The most critical features include reliable data redundancy, fast network interfaces, easy management, and scalability. Security features like encryption and user access controls are also vital to protect sensitive business data. Avoid models with overly complex interfaces or limited support, as these can lead to higher maintenance overhead and potential security gaps.

How often should I upgrade or replace my NAS system?

Most small business NAS units are designed to last 3-5 years, depending on usage and technological advancements. Signs it’s time to upgrade include persistent performance bottlenecks, insufficient capacity, or outdated security features. Regular firmware updates and maintenance can extend the lifespan, but planning for future growth ensures your storage solutions remain aligned with your business needs.

Conclusion

For small businesses seeking the best overall balance of features and price, the Synology DiskStation DS925+ makes an excellent choice. Those prioritizing affordability and simplicity might prefer the Synology DS223 Home & Office. If your business demands high media performance or future expansion, the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers compelling capabilities. Budget-conscious startups should consider models with included drives, while more established firms with complex needs may find the Synology DS725+ offers the scalability they require. Tailor your choice to your business size, growth plans, and technical comfort level for the best results.

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