# Best 4-Bay NAS in 2026: 5 Current Picks

Five current 4-bay NAS choices compared on CPU, memory ceiling, M.2 slots, PCIe and 10GbE options, expansion units, software, and recovery.

- URL: https://homelabpicks.com/nas/best-4-bay-nas/
- Published: 2026-03-15
- Updated: 2026-09-30
- Evidence: research-backed

> HomeLabPicks earns a commission on qualifying purchases made through https://homelabpicks.com/go/ links. Prices change; check the retailer before buying. Disclosure: https://homelabpicks.com/disclosure/

## Verdict

**[QNAP TS-464](https://homelabpicks.com/go/qnap-ts-464)**: The most balanced current four-bay NAS when it also runs media and containers: Intel graphics, dual 2.5GbE, two M.2 slots, and a PCIe slot for a faster network card.

## Products

### Our Pick: [QNAP TS-464](https://homelabpicks.com/go/qnap-ts-464)

The broadest feature set for a conventional four-bay home lab, including Intel graphics, HDMI 2.1, and a PCIe upgrade path.

- CPU: Intel Celeron N5095 (4C/4T, up to 2.9 GHz)
- Memory: 8GB SODIMM; two slots, 16GB official maximum
- Network: 2x 2.5GbE; 5GbE or 10GbE optional via PCIe card
- Expansion: 2x M.2 (PCIe Gen 3 x1) plus a PCIe Gen 3 x2 slot

Pros:
- Intel UHD Graphics for Plex hardware transcoding and other media apps
- PCIe slot for an optional 5GbE or 10GbE card
- Dual 2.5GbE

Cons:
- QTS requires prompt patching and careful exposure
- 16GB official memory ceiling, non-ECC
- M.2 slots use a single PCIe Gen 3 lane each

### Best Software: [Synology DS925+](https://homelabpicks.com/go/synology-ds925)

The software-first choice for backups, accounts, snapshots, alerts, and long-term storage administration.

- CPU: AMD Ryzen V1500B, 4C/8T
- Memory: 4GB ECC; up to 32GB
- Network: 2x 2.5GbE
- Expansion: 2x M.2; no PCIe slot; one DX525 expansion unit

Pros:
- Mature DSM platform
- ECC memory, expandable to 32GB
- Strong backup tooling

Cons:
- No 10GbE upgrade path
- No integrated GPU for Plex hardware transcoding
- Modest base memory

### Best Networking: [UGREEN DXP4800 Plus](https://homelabpicks.com/go/ugreen-dxp4800)

The strongest networking package in this group, with useful compute and memory expansion for Docker.

- CPU: Intel Pentium Gold 8505 (5 cores, 6 threads, up to 4.4 GHz)
- Memory: 8GB DDR5; expandable to 64GB
- Network: 1x 10GbE plus 1x 2.5GbE
- Expansion: 2x M.2

Pros:
- Built-in 10GbE
- Intel integrated graphics
- DDR5 expandable to 64GB

Cons:
- Younger operating-system ecosystem
- No ECC memory
- No general PCIe slot

### Most Compute: [TerraMaster F4-424 Pro](https://homelabpicks.com/go/terramaster-f4-424-pro)

The compute-first option for containers and applications, with far more installed memory than the others.

- CPU: Intel Core i3-N305, 8 cores, up to 3.8 GHz
- Memory: 32GB DDR5 installed (also the maximum)
- Network: 2x 2.5GbE
- Expansion: 2x M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x1); no PCIe slot

Pros:
- Strongest CPU in the group
- 32GB installed memory
- Intel integrated graphics

Cons:
- TOS is less mature than DSM
- No ECC memory
- No 10GbE upgrade path

### Most NVMe: [ASUSTOR AS5404T](https://homelabpicks.com/go/asustor-as5404t)

A flexible SATA-plus-NVMe platform when four M.2 slots matter more than PCIe or 10GbE.

- CPU: Intel Celeron N5105 (4 cores, up to 2.9 GHz)
- Memory: 4GB; up to 16GB
- Network: 2x 2.5GbE
- Expansion: 4x M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x1)

Pros:
- Four M.2 slots
- Intel integrated graphics
- Dual 2.5GbE

Cons:
- No PCIe slot
- Smaller software ecosystem
- 4GB base memory

## Comparison

| Product | CPU | Memory | Networking | M.2 slots | Expansion | Best role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [QNAP TS-464](https://homelabpicks.com/go/qnap-ts-464) (winner) | Intel Celeron N5095 | 8GB; 16GB official maximum | 2x 2.5GbE | 2 | PCIe Gen 3 x2 slot | Balanced home-lab appliance |
| [Synology DS925+](https://homelabpicks.com/go/synology-ds925) | AMD Ryzen V1500B | 4GB ECC; up to 32GB | 2x 2.5GbE | 2 | No PCIe; DX525 expansion unit | Backup and storage that requires little administration |
| [UGREEN DXP4800 Plus](https://homelabpicks.com/go/ugreen-dxp4800) | Intel Pentium Gold 8505 | 8GB DDR5; up to 64GB | 10GbE plus 2.5GbE | 2 | No PCIe | Fast networking and Docker |
| [TerraMaster F4-424 Pro](https://homelabpicks.com/go/terramaster-f4-424-pro) | Intel Core i3-N305 | 32GB DDR5 (also the maximum) | 2x 2.5GbE | 2 | No PCIe | Application-heavy NAS |
| [ASUSTOR AS5404T](https://homelabpicks.com/go/asustor-as5404t) | Intel Celeron N5105 | 4GB; up to 16GB | 2x 2.5GbE | 4 | No PCIe | Tiered SATA and NVMe storage |

Four bays give you real RAID layout choices without moving to a large chassis. This roundup compares the five current four-bay appliances we recommend. The right one depends on whether the NAS is mainly storage, an application server, a media server, or a high-speed network endpoint. If you are still deciding between a four-bay NAS, a two-bay unit, all-flash storage, or a DIY build, start with our [home lab NAS guide](https://homelabpicks.com/nas/best-nas-home-lab/).

## Quick recommendations

- **QNAP TS-464:** best overall balance.
- **Synology DS925+:** best software and backup administration.
- **UGREEN DXP4800 Plus:** best built-in networking.
- **TerraMaster F4-424 Pro:** best compute and installed memory.
- **ASUSTOR AS5404T:** best M.2 expansion.

## QNAP TS-464: best overall balance

The [QNAP TS-464](https://homelabpicks.com/go/qnap-ts-464) combines an Intel N5095, dual 2.5GbE, two M.2 slots, HDMI 2.1, and a PCIe Gen 3 x2 slot that QNAP lists for optional 5GbE or 10GbE cards. That slot preserves an upgrade path that most current four-bay appliances have dropped.

QNAP's TS-464-8G specification lists 8GB of DDR4 on a SODIMM, two SODIMM slots, and a 16GB official maximum, so the memory is upgradeable rather than soldered.

QTS is capable, but patch promptly, avoid direct internet exposure, and use a VPN or an authenticated reverse proxy for remote access.

## Synology DS925+: best managed storage

The [DS925+](https://homelabpicks.com/go/synology-ds925) offers dual 2.5GbE, ECC memory, two M.2 slots, and DSM. Its advantage is operational: accounts, snapshots, notifications, Active Backup, Hyper Backup, and recovery documentation form a mature system.

It has no PCIe slot, so it cannot take Synology's E10G22-T1-Mini 10GbE module, and it connects only to the DX525 expansion unit, not the older DX517. Since DSM 7.3 (October 2025), Synology's 2025 Plus, Value and J models, such as the DS925+ and DS225+, accept third-party 3.5-inch HDDs and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, but M.2 storage pools and cache still need drives on Synology's compatibility list.

## UGREEN DXP4800 Plus: best networking

The [DXP4800 Plus](https://homelabpicks.com/go/ugreen-dxp4800) includes one 10GbE port and one 2.5GbE port, an Intel Pentium Gold 8505 with integrated graphics, 8GB of DDR5 expandable to 64GB, and two M.2 slots. It is the strongest option here for a workstation-to-NAS link or Docker workloads that move large datasets.

UGOS Pro has less history than DSM or QTS. Treat configuration export, independent backup, update timing, and restore testing as owner responsibilities.

## TerraMaster F4-424 Pro: best compute

The [F4-424 Pro](https://homelabpicks.com/go/terramaster-f4-424-pro) has the strongest CPU in the group, an 8-core Core i3-N305, and ships with 32GB of DDR5, which is also its maximum. It is the best fit for a substantial container stack or other CPU-heavy local applications.

Its tradeoffs are software maturity, no ECC, and no 10GbE expansion path. Choose it because you need the compute and memory, not because the specification sheet is larger.

## ASUSTOR AS5404T: best M.2 expansion

The [AS5404T](https://homelabpicks.com/go/asustor-as5404t) combines an Intel N5105, dual 2.5GbE, and four M.2 slots. It can separate latency-sensitive applications from bulk SATA storage without moving to a dedicated all-flash NAS.

ADM covers core NAS functions, but its community and package ecosystem are smaller than Synology's and QNAP's.

## Four-bay buying checklist

- **Memory ceiling.** The TS-464 and AS5404T stop at 16GB, the DS925+ at 32GB of ECC, the F4-424 Pro ships at its 32GB maximum, and the DXP4800 Plus takes up to 64GB.
- **M.2 lanes.** Most M.2 slots in this class run on a single PCIe 3.0 lane, which suits cache and application pools but will not deliver a desktop NVMe drive's full speed.
- **Network path.** Built-in 10GbE (DXP4800 Plus) or a PCIe card slot (TS-464) are the only routes past 2.5GbE in this group.
- **Drive policy.** Check each vendor's compatibility list before buying drives, especially for M.2 pools on Synology.
- **Expansion units.** If you may outgrow four bays, confirm which expansion enclosure the model supports; the DS925+ takes only the DX525.

## How to decide

### For Plex

Intel-based models have an integrated media engine that Plex can use for hardware transcoding with a Plex Pass. Plex's NAS notes say a Jasper Lake or newer CPU is needed to transcode reliably to HEVC; all four Intel models here meet that. The DS925+ has no integrated GPU. If you want DSM with Intel graphics, Synology's other current four-bay Plus model, the [DS425+](https://homelabpicks.com/go/synology-ds425), has a Celeron J4125, 2GB of memory (6GB maximum), one 2.5GbE port, and one 1GbE port, although the J4125 predates Jasper Lake. Hardware capability does not guarantee every codec, HDR conversion, or subtitle path, so match the actual library and client devices.

### For Docker

Start with memory, CPU, and backup design. TerraMaster offers the most installed capacity, while UGREEN combines useful compute with 10GbE. Synology provides the smoother management experience for a moderate service set.

### For 10GbE

Choose the UGREEN for built-in 10GbE or the QNAP for a PCIe upgrade path. The DS925+ cannot add a 10GbE card.

### For important backups

Choose the system whose restore workflow you can operate under stress. DSM has the most integrated backup and recovery tools in this comparison, but every NAS still needs an independent, versioned, preferably off-site copy.

## Bottom line

The QNAP TS-464 is the most versatile current four-bay recommendation. The DS925+ is the better storage appliance, the UGREEN is the better fast-network endpoint, the TerraMaster is the better compact application server, and the ASUSTOR is the better mixed SATA and NVMe platform.

Synology lists the DS923+ as discontinued. Consider it only used or at clearance, and only when you specifically need its 10GbE slot or DX517 support.

## FAQ

### What is the best 4-bay NAS for a home lab?

The QNAP TS-464, when the NAS also runs media, containers, or a future network card. Choose the Synology DS925+ when DSM and backup administration matter more than hardware flexibility. Our Synology vs QNAP guide draws the same line: Synology for software-first buyers, QNAP for hardware-first home labs.

### Which current 4-bay NAS includes 10GbE?

The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus includes one 10GbE port. The QNAP TS-464 can add 5GbE or 10GbE through its PCIe slot. The DS925+, F4-424 Pro, and AS5404T have no PCIe network-upgrade path.

### Does the QNAP TS-464 have soldered RAM?

No. QNAP's TS-464-8G specification lists 8GB of DDR4 SODIMM memory, two SODIMM slots, and a 16GB maximum.

### Does the Synology DS925+ accept third-party drives?

Since DSM 7.3 (October 2025), Synology's 2025 Plus, Value and J models, such as the DS925+ and DS225+, accept third-party 3.5-inch HDDs and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, but M.2 storage pools and cache still need drives on Synology's compatibility list.

### Should I buy a discontinued DS923+?

Only as a used or clearance option when its 10GbE network upgrade slot or DX517 support is essential. Remaining-stock prices are not a useful benchmark for a normal current-market comparison.

## Sources

- [QNAP TS-464 hardware specifications](https://www.qnap.com/en-us/product/ts-464/specs/hardware) (accessed 2026-09-29)
- [Synology DS925+ product specifications](https://global.download.synology.com/download/Document/Hardware/ProductSpec/DiskStation/25-year/DS925+/enu/Product_Spec_DS925+_enu.pdf) (accessed 2026-09-29)
- [Synology DS425+ specifications](https://www.synology.com/en-us/products/DS425+#specs) (accessed 2026-09-30)
- [Synology DSM 7.3 release announcement (drive compatibility)](https://www.synology.com/en-global/company/news/article/dsm73) (accessed 2026-09-29)
- [Synology product support status](https://www.synology.com/en-global/products/status?status=all) (accessed 2026-09-30)
- [UGREEN NASync DXP4800 Plus](https://ai.ugreen.com/pages/nas-home-dxp4800-plus) (accessed 2026-09-30)
- [Intel Pentium Gold 8505 specifications](https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/sku/226262/intel-pentium-gold-processor-8505-8m-cache-up-to-4-40-ghz/specifications.html) (accessed 2026-09-30)
- [TerraMaster F4-424 Pro specifications](https://www.terra-master.com/global/products/homesoho-nas/f4-424-pro.html) (accessed 2026-09-29)
- [ASUSTOR AS5404T specifications](https://www.asustor.com/product/spec?p_id=82) (accessed 2026-09-29)
- [Plex hardware-accelerated streaming support](https://support.plex.tv/articles/115002178853-using-hardware-accelerated-streaming/) (accessed 2026-09-30)