If you’re looking for the 12 best 4-bay NAS options for small business or home office use in 2026, I recommend a mix of models like Synology’s DS423 and DS224+, Asustor AS5404T, and Buffalo’s LinkStation SoHo 220. These provide great performance, scalability, and security features. Some come pre-loaded, while others are diskless, giving you flexibility. Keep an eye on connection speeds and drive expandability to match your needs — I’ll share more details soon.
Key Takeaways
- Top 4-bay NAS devices like Synology DS423+ and QNAP TS-433-4G-US offer robust performance, security, and expandability for small businesses and home offices.
- Features such as dual Ethernet ports, high-speed connectivity options, and support for multiple drives ensure future-proof networking and storage.
- Many models include pre-installed drives or support large capacity drives, catering to growing data and backup needs.
- Security features like encryption, user permissions, and malware protection help safeguard sensitive business and personal data.
- Ease of management, remote access capabilities, and warranty support make these NAS solutions reliable and user-friendly in 2026.
| Asustor AS5404T 4-Bay NAS with SSD Slots |  | High-Speed Performance | Processor Type: Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 4 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: Dual 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay NAS with Drives |  | Secure Home Storage | Processor Type: ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 4 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS224+ 2-Bay NAS 8TB Bundle |  | Reliable Data Management | Processor Type: Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 2 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2 x 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| WD Red Plus 4TB NAS Internal Hard Drive |  | Enterprise Reliability | Processor Type: Not specified (WD Red Drive) | RAM Capacity: Not applicable (hard drive) | Network Ports: Not applicable (hard drive) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| LincStation N2 6-Bay NAS with 10GbE and 16GB RAM |  | Scalable Power | Processor Type: Intel Alder Lake-N N100 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 16 GB LPDDR5 | Network Ports: 10GbE, multiple USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-433-4G-US 4-Bay NAS with 4GB RAM |  | Home Multimedia Hub | Processor Type: ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 4 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2.5GbE + 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 4-Bay NAS with 24TB |  | Professional Backup | Processor Type: Not specified (RAID with drives) | RAM Capacity: Not specified (RAID configuration) | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 NAS 4 Bays Diskless |  | User-Friendly Backup | Processor Type: Realtek RTD1619B Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 1 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-216G-US 2-Bay 2.5GbE NAS with Quad-Core CPU |  | Budget-Friendly Security | Processor Type: ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 4 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2.5GbE, 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 4-Bay DIY NAS Case with Hot Swap Backplane |  | Custom Build Flexibility | Processor Type: Not specified (DIY case) | RAM Capacity: Not applicable (case) | Network Ports: Not applicable (case) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay NAS with Drives | | Basic Home Cloud | Processor Type: ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core | RAM Capacity: 4 GB DDR4 | Network Ports: 2.5GbE + 1GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) |  | Surveillance Ready | Processor Type: Not specified (Diskless) | RAM Capacity: Not applicable (Diskless) | Network Ports: Not applicable (Diskless) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Asustor AS5404T 4-Bay NAS with SSD Slots
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile NAS that can handle demanding tasks, the Asustor AS5404T is an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices. It features a 4-bay, diskless enclosure with an Intel Quad-Core 2.0GHz processor, ensuring smooth performance. The 4 GB DDR4 RAM supports multitasking, while the 4 M.2 NVMe SSD slots enable high-speed caching or storage expansion. With dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports and three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports at 10 Gbps, it offers fast connectivity. Its sleek design and efficient thermal vents make it both stylish and reliable for data sharing, backups, gaming, and live streaming.
- Processor Type:Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:4 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:Dual 2.5GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:4 bays, SSD support
- Compatibility / Use Case:Small business/home office, media
- Special Features:SSD slots, dual 2.5GbE
- Additional Feature:Dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Additional Feature:4 M.2 NVMe SSD slots
- Additional Feature:Aesthetic modern design
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay NAS with Drives
The Buffalo LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay NAS stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices that prioritize security and easy management. It offers reliable network storage with RAID options, including RAID 1 for automatic backups and RAID 0 for maximum capacity. With 4TB shipped capacity (2x2TB), it supports fast connectivity and works seamlessly with Windows and macOS. The device features SSL encryption, secure folder sharing, and direct USB backups, making data protection straightforward. Its simple setup, user-friendly management tools, and 3-year warranty make it a dependable, secure, and cost-effective storage solution for everyday use.
- Processor Type:ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:4 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:2 bays, HDD with RAID
- Compatibility / Use Case:Small office, personal cloud
- Special Features:RAID, secure sharing
- Additional Feature:Supports Windows & macOS
- Additional Feature:Secure private cloud access
- Additional Feature:USB direct backup support
Synology DS224+ 2-Bay NAS 8TB Bundle
The Synology DS224+ 2-Bay NAS with an 8TB bundle stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices seeking reliable, secure storage. It features a powerful Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor and 2GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth performance. The bundle includes two 4TB WD Red Plus drives, offering ample space for backups and files. With dual Gigabit LAN ports and USB 3.2 ports, it provides fast network connectivity and easy peripheral management. Built-in security tools safeguard your data against threats, while seamless file access and synchronization enhance collaboration across devices. It’s a versatile, dependable solution for small-scale data needs.
- Processor Type:Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:2 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2 x 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:2 bays, bundled 8TB
- Compatibility / Use Case:Small business, data sharing
- Special Features:Security tools, bundled drives
- Additional Feature:Built-in security tools
- Additional Feature:2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
- Additional Feature:Seamless file synchronization
WD Red Plus 4TB NAS Internal Hard Drive
Looking for a reliable hard drive that can handle 24/7 operation in your small business or home office? The WD Red Plus 4TB NAS Internal Hard Drive is a solid choice. It supports up to 8-bay NAS systems and is built for continuous use, with a 3-year warranty. With a 5400 RPM speed, SATA 6 Gb/s interface, and 256 MB cache, it offers smooth performance for demanding workloads. Designed with NASware firmware and CMR technology, it guarantees compatibility and reliability. Whether you’re storing data or running applications, this drive delivers dependable performance tailored for small to medium-sized NAS environments.
- Processor Type:Not specified (WD Red Drive)
- RAM Capacity:Not applicable (hard drive)
- Network Ports:Not applicable (hard drive)
- Drive Bays / Storage:1 HDD (internal)
- Compatibility / Use Case:NAS internal HDD for various
- Special Features:HDD, SATA interface
- Additional Feature:5400 RPM spindle speed
- Additional Feature:Supports workloads up to 180 TB/year
- Additional Feature:3-year limited warranty
LincStation N2 6-Bay NAS with 10GbE and 16GB RAM
If you’re seeking a compact NAS that combines high-speed connectivity with powerful performance, the LincStation N2 6-Bay NAS stands out. It features an Intel Alder Lake-N N100 processor with 4 cores up to 3.4GHz, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, ensuring smooth 4K streaming, fast file transfers, and efficient multitasking. Its 10GbE port enables ultra-fast data transfers ideal for media streaming, backups, and collaborative work. With six flexible storage slots—two SATA and four M.2 NVMe—and a 128GB eMMC, it offers scalable, high-performance storage. The mini design includes USB-C, HDMI 2.0, and support for Plex, Docker, and more, backed by a 2-year warranty.
- Processor Type:Intel Alder Lake-N N100 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:16 GB LPDDR5
- Network Ports:10GbE, multiple USB
- Drive Bays / Storage:6 bays, scalable
- Compatibility / Use Case:High-performance home/server
- Special Features:10GbE, Unraid OS
- Additional Feature:10GbE high-speed Ethernet
- Additional Feature:Supports scalable M.2 SSD slots
- Additional Feature:4K HDMI output for media
QNAP TS-433-4G-US 4-Bay NAS with 4GB RAM
For home users seeking a reliable and budget-friendly storage solution, the QNAP TS-433-4G-US 4-Bay NAS with 4GB RAM stands out thanks to its high-speed network connectivity and user-friendly features. It has a diskless design, making setup flexible, and is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor that delivers dependable performance for file sharing and multimedia streaming. The dual network ports—2.5GbE and 1GbE—future-proof your home network with fast data transfer. Plus, it supports easy backups from Windows and Mac devices and secure remote access through MyQNAPCloud, making it a versatile choice for home storage needs.
- Processor Type:ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:4 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2.5GbE + 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:4 bays, HDD support
- Compatibility / Use Case:Home, media, backup
- Special Features:10GbE, multimedia
- Additional Feature:2.5GbE and 1GbE ports
- Additional Feature:Secure remote access via MyQNAPCloud
- Additional Feature:Supports multimedia & file sharing
BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 4-Bay NAS with 24TB
The BUFFALO TeraStation Essentials 4-Bay NAS with 24TB stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices seeking reliable, high-capacity storage with easy setup. It comes with four pre-installed 6TB drives, offering 24TB total, and ships in RAID 5 for 18TB of usable space. You can switch to RAID 6 for extra redundancy or RAID 0 for full capacity. Equipped with a native 2.5GbE port, it delivers fast data transfers. Its built-in encryption and flexible backup options guarantee data safety. With a 3-year warranty, 24/7 US support, and made in Japan, this NAS combines affordability with high-quality performance.
- Processor Type:Not specified (RAID with drives)
- RAM Capacity:Not specified (RAID configuration)
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5GbE, 1 x 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:4 bays, pre-installed drives
- Compatibility / Use Case:Business, data redundancy
- Special Features:RAID options, cloud sync
- Additional Feature:Pre-installed RAID 5 drives
- Additional Feature:Cloud sync with major providers
- Additional Feature:Built-in data encryption
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 NAS 4 Bays Diskless
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 NAS stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices seeking a reliable, easy-to-install storage solution. It offers four drive bays, giving you flexibility to customize your storage with your own disks. Powered by a quad-core 1.7GHz Realtek processor and 1GB DDR4 RAM, it handles media streaming and backups smoothly. The device features a 2.5GbE port for faster network speeds, three USB 3.0 ports for peripheral connections, and supports 4K transcoding. Its tool-free design makes setup straightforward, making it perfect for users who want a hassle-free, scalable NAS for personal or small business use.
- Processor Type:Realtek RTD1619B Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:1 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2.5GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:4 bays, diskless
- Compatibility / Use Case:Personal/home cloud
- Special Features:2.5GbE, 4K transcoding
- Additional Feature:2.5GbE Ethernet port
- Additional Feature:Internal display for status
- Additional Feature:Tool-free drive installation
QNAP TS-216G-US 2-Bay 2.5GbE NAS with Quad-Core CPU
If you’re looking for an affordable yet capable NAS solution for your home or small office, the QNAP TS-216G-US stands out thanks to its powerful quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor and 4GB of DDR4 RAM. Its built-in NPU boosts AI tasks like face and object recognition, enhancing performance. The dual 2.5GbE ports support fast file sharing and large transfers, making multimedia streaming and backups quick and easy. Designed as a diskless unit, it’s perfect for centralized storage of photos, videos, and documents. Plus, secure remote access via MyQNAPCloud ensures you can access your data anytime, anywhere with confidence.
- Processor Type:ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:4 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2.5GbE, 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:2 bays, diskless
- Compatibility / Use Case:Home, multimedia, backup
- Special Features:AI acceleration, remote access
- Additional Feature:Built-in NPU for AI
- Additional Feature:Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Additional Feature:Affordable home solution
4-Bay DIY NAS Case with Hot Swap Backplane
A key feature that makes the 4-Bay DIY NAS Case with Hot Swap Backplane ideal for small business and home office setups is its hot-swappable drive bays, which allow for quick disk replacement without shutting down the system. This design simplifies maintenance and upgrades, saving time and minimizing downtime. It supports four 2.5″ or 3.5″ drives plus an internal 2.5″ bay, all managed through a sturdy backplane. Made for compact Mini ITX motherboards, it fits easily into tight spaces. Additional features like front USB 3.0 ports, a chassis fan, and support for various power supplies make it a versatile, efficient solution for private cloud storage.
- Processor Type:Not specified (DIY case)
- RAM Capacity:Not applicable (case)
- Network Ports:Not applicable (case)
- Drive Bays / Storage:4 bays (case)
- Compatibility / Use Case:DIY customization
- Special Features:Hot-swap bays, mini ITX
- Additional Feature:Supports Mini ITX motherboard
- Additional Feature:Supports PCI-e expansion card
- Additional Feature:Hot-swappable drive bays
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay NAS with Drives
For small businesses and home offices seeking reliable, straightforward network storage, the Buffalo LinkStation 220 4TB NAS with Hard Drives stands out as an excellent option. It offers 4TB of capacity with two pre-installed drives, functioning as a central storage hub compatible with Windows and macOS (up to macOS 15). It connects via your router for easy network sharing. The device ships in RAID 1 mode for data security but can be reconfigured to RAID 0 for full capacity. With SSL encryption, automated backups, and a personal cloud, it provides secure, cost-effective storage. Buffalo’s 2-year warranty and 24/7 US support add peace of mind.
- Processor Type:ARM Cortex-A55 Quad-Core
- RAM Capacity:4 GB DDR4
- Network Ports:2.5GbE + 1GbE
- Drive Bays / Storage:2 bays, pre-installed drives
- Compatibility / Use Case:Home/server backup
- Special Features:Cloud sync, security
- Additional Feature:RAID 1 default mode
- Additional Feature:SSL encryption security
- Additional Feature:Supports private cloud
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless)
The Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS423 (Diskless) stands out as an ideal choice for small businesses and home offices seeking a customizable, secure private cloud solution. It allows easy remote file and media access while supporting versatile video surveillance for up to 30 IP cameras (license sold separately). Its diskless design offers flexibility for users to choose compatible drives, and it provides robust data protection with snapshots to guard against malware and accidental loss. Plus, the included 2-year warranty and support resources give peace of mind. Overall, it’s a powerful, adaptable NAS perfect for securing and sharing data in any small-scale environment.
- Processor Type:Not specified (Diskless)
- RAM Capacity:Not applicable (Diskless)
- Network Ports:Not applicable (Diskless)
- Drive Bays / Storage:Diskless, customizable
- Compatibility / Use Case:Business, surveillance, cloud
- Special Features:Surveillance, remote access
- Additional Feature:Supports up to 30 cameras
- Additional Feature:Snapshot backup technology
- Additional Feature:Diskless customizable design
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 4 Bay NAS for Small Business Home Office
When choosing a 4 Bay NAS for your small business or home office, it’s important to take into account your storage needs, network speed, and data security features. Ease of setup and compatibility with your existing systems also play a big role in making the right choice. Let’s look at these factors to help you find the best fit for your setup.
Storage Capacity Needs
Evaluating your storage capacity needs is essential for selecting the right 4 bay NAS for your small business or home office. I recommend calculating your current data requirements and projecting future growth to choose a device that won’t quickly become obsolete. Consider your preferred RAID setup; for example, RAID 0 maximizes capacity, while RAID 1 offers better data protection. Check the maximum supported drive size of your NAS to ensure it can handle larger hard drives down the line. Planning for expansion now can save you time and money later, so opting for a model with higher maximum capacity, like 8TB or more, is wise. Also, if you choose a NAS with pre-installed drives, factor that into your total storage calculations to meet your needs accurately.
Network Speed Requirements
Choosing the right network speed for your 4-bay NAS is essential to guarantee smooth data transfer and efficient workflow. If you handle large files, HD media streaming, or frequent backups, a NAS with at least a 1GbE port might struggle. Upgrading to 2.5GbE or 10GbE can drastically reduce transfer times and improve performance. Dual Ethernet ports supporting link aggregation can increase overall throughput and add redundancy, ensuring your network remains stable. As your data needs grow, higher speeds like 5GbE or 10GbE will future-proof your setup, accommodating increased traffic and more demanding applications. Ultimately, selecting a NAS with suitable network speeds depends on your current workload and plans for future expansion, ensuring you avoid bottlenecks and maintain productivity.
Data Security Features
Securing your data is just as important as optimizing network speeds, especially in a small business or home office environment. I look for NAS devices that support encryption protocols like SSL/TLS to protect data during transfer and at rest. Multi-level user permissions and private folders are essential to control who can see or access specific files, preventing unauthorized access. I also prioritize models with integrated security tools such as malware scanning, snapshot backups, and automatic firmware updates, which help maintain data integrity. Secure remote access features, like VPN support or secure cloud services, enable safe off-site data retrieval. Additionally, hardware-based security, such as TPM modules or hardware encryption engines, offers extra layers of protection, ensuring my data remains safe from threats.
Ease of Setup
When selecting a 4-bay NAS for a small business or home office, ease of setup should be a top priority. I look for models with user-friendly interfaces and clear instructions that make installation straightforward. Guided setup wizards or step-by-step tools are invaluable, reducing the need for technical expertise. Devices with pre-installed drives or tool-free bays simplify initial drive installation, saving time and effort. I also check for thorough documentation, online tutorials, and responsive customer support to help troubleshoot if needed. Additionally, features like automatic IP detection and quick-connect options minimize network configuration, speeding up the setup process. Overall, a NAS with simple, intuitive setup features ensures I can start using it quickly and confidently, without unnecessary delays or complications.
Compatibility Options
To guarantee your 4-bay NAS seamlessly integrates into your small business or home office, it’s essential to verify its compatibility with your existing devices and network setup. First, check that the NAS supports your operating systems, whether Windows, macOS, or Linux, for smooth operation. Next, ensure it works with your network infrastructure, including Ethernet standards like 1GbE, 2.5GbE, or 10GbE, to meet your speed needs. Also, confirm that the NAS supports the drive types and sizes you plan to use, such as SATA or NVMe SSDs. Additionally, review its hardware specs—CPU and RAM—to handle your workload. Lastly, look for compatibility with features like RAID, remote access, and backup software, which are essential for all-encompassing data management.
Backup and Recovery
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS for your small business or home office means prioritizing reliable backup and recovery options. I look for devices that support automated backup schedules, ensuring my data is backed up seamlessly without manual intervention. Multiple backup options, including local, remote, and cloud-based solutions, give me flexibility and security. Snapshot features are essential for quickly restoring previous data states if I accidentally delete files or face malware attacks. It’s also important that the NAS supports backup software or protocols I use, like Rsync, Time Machine, or Windows Backup. Additionally, I consider whether it supports incremental backups, which save storage space and speed up recovery times. These features help me maintain robust data protection and peace of mind.
Budget Considerations
Budget constraints play a significant role in selecting the right 4-bay NAS for my small business or home office. I need to decide whether to buy a diskless model, which requires separate drives, or a pre-populated one with included hard drives. The total cost includes not only the device but also compatible drives, accessories, and possible licenses. Entry-level models with basic features often cost under $300, while more advanced units with better performance and security can go over $1,000. I also consider the total cost of ownership, including upgrades, warranties, and support plans. Prioritizing essential features within my budget helps me avoid overspending on capabilities I may not need, ensuring I get the best value for my investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does NAS Scalability Affect Future Storage Needs?
NAS scalability directly impacts my future storage needs by allowing me to easily add more drives as my data grows. It guarantees I don’t outgrow my system quickly, saving me money and hassle. With scalable NAS, I can expand capacity without replacing the entire device, making it a flexible and cost-effective solution for my evolving storage requirements. This way, I stay prepared for future data demands effortlessly.
What Security Features Are Essential for Small Business NAS Devices?
I believe vital security features for small business NAS devices include robust encryption, such as AES-256, to protect data at rest and in transit. I also prioritize multi-factor authentication, regular firmware updates, and thorough firewall and intrusion detection systems. These features help prevent unauthorized access, safeguard sensitive information, and guarantee compliance with data privacy standards. Staying vigilant with backups and user permissions is also essential for maintaining security.
Can NAS Units Support Multiple Remote Users Simultaneously?
Yes, NAS units can support multiple remote users simultaneously. I’ve seen many models designed specifically for this purpose, with powerful processors and ample RAM that handle multiple connections smoothly. Even small business NAS devices are built to manage several users at once, ensuring everyone can access files or backups without slowing down. So, if you’re worried about remote access, rest assured, today’s NAS units are well-equipped for multiple users.
How Do Power Consumption and Energy Efficiency Vary Among Models?
Power consumption and energy efficiency vary markedly among NAS models. I find that newer models tend to be more energy-efficient, thanks to advanced processors and better power management features. Some units even have eco modes that reduce energy use during idle times. When choosing, I recommend checking the specifications for power consumption ratings and considering those with energy-saving features to save on electricity costs and reduce environmental impact.
What Are the Warranty and After-Sales Support Options Available?
Warranty and after-sales support options are vital when choosing a NAS. I always look for models offering at least a two to three-year warranty, with some brands providing extended coverage. I also prefer manufacturers that have responsive customer support via phone, chat, or email, plus detailed online resources like manuals and tutorials. Good support guarantees I can resolve issues quickly, keeping my business running smoothly without unnecessary downtime.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS can feel overwhelming, but imagine having a powerhouse that handles all your business and home needs effortlessly—faster than lightning, more reliable than your best friend, and packed with features that seem almost magical. With the options I’ve shared, you’ll be unstoppable, transforming your small office into a fortress of data security and lightning-fast access. Don’t settle for less—your ultimate storage solution is just a decision away!
