First NAS

[Enquiries]

Hi, I'm looking to get my first NAS. Will be used as an easy to access data backup for me and my wife's home PCs and phones. My current plan is to get something like a 4 bay NAS, but only use two slots initially in a RAID1 config. Then use the couple of external hardrives which we are currently using as offsite backups for the most precious files by keeping them at the in-laws.

I also have some interest in using it as a Plex server and potentially hosting a minecraft server on it for me and a couple of mates. However, if these start to drive the cost too much, then they aren't hard requirements.

I have had a look and whilst I want it to be future proofed, I dont' want to spend money I don't need to. Would be interested to see what you recommend.

Have been looking at something like a Synology DS923+ (maybe a bit pricey for the hardware?) or the QNAP TS264 (I didn't like some of the comments I have seen about security issues).

Look forward to your response.
Tom

[ed]

Sounds like you have a solid plan for your first NAS! A 4-bay NAS starting with 2 drives in RAID 1 is a great approach—it gives you redundancy now while keeping room to expand later. Keeping external drives for offsite backups at the in-laws is also a smart move for extra protection.

For backup, Plex, and a small Minecraft server, you’ll want something with decent CPU power, but you don’t need to go overboard if budget is a concern.

NAS Recommendations
Synology DS923+ (£560-600) – Solid but No Hardware Transcoding
You’re right that the DS923+ is pricey for its hardware. While it’s great for backups and future expansion, it doesn’t have integrated graphics, meaning Plex will struggle with transcoding. If all your Plex devices support direct play (e.g., a Fire Stick, Apple TV, or smart TV that can natively play your files), it’s a great choice. Otherwise, it’s not the best for Plex.

QNAP TS-264 (£500-550) – Better for Plex but Some Security Concerns
This has Intel UHD Graphics, which makes hardware-accelerated Plex transcoding possible. If you ever need to stream to devices that don’t support direct play, this would perform better than the DS923+. Security concerns with QNAP are mostly about keeping firmware updated and not exposing the NAS directly to the internet (use a VPN for remote access instead). If you’re comfortable keeping it maintained, it’s a better Plex option than the DS923+.

Alternative: Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2 (AS6704T) (£480-520) – Balanced Option
This sits between Synology and QNAP in terms of price and features. It has an Intel Celeron CPU with iGPU for Plex transcoding, 2.5GbE networking, and a decent OS. Not as polished as Synology but less of a security headache than QNAP.

Which One Should You Pick?
If backup + occasional Plex (but only direct play) is your main need → Synology DS923+.
If you want good Plex transcoding and a bit more CPU power for Minecraft → QNAP TS-264.
If you want a balance of Plex, security, and price → Asustor AS6704T.
For drives, you could start with 2x6TB IronWolf or WD Red Plus in RAID 1, then expand as needed.