03-07-2025, 08:55 AM
I hear you on the TS-351—it’s known for sluggish performance, even with maxed-out RAM. If you’re looking for an affordable 4-bay upgrade without going the full DIY route, here are some good used or budget-friendly options:
1. Used QNAP Models
Since you like QNAP but want something snappier, look for a used TS-453A, TS-453B, or TS-453Be. These models have a quad-core CPU, run QTS much better, and are often available second-hand for £200-300. They also support M.2 caching & PCIe expansion, which helps with performance.
2. Budget-Friendly New NAS
QNAP TS-431K (~£250) – Basic 4-bay, but only ARM-based (not great for apps).
Asustor AS3304T (~£280) – Better performance than your TS-351, but UI isn't as refined.
3. DIY Alternative – Repurpose Your i5-6500 Build
Since you already have a mATX board & Intel i5-6500, you could use UnRAID instead of TrueNAS. It’s way easier to set up, supports RAID-like flexibility, and has a nice GUI—much more beginner-friendly. You can build a much faster NAS than any QNAP for less money.
What I’d Recommend:
If you want a plug-and-play solution, look for a used QNAP TS-453Be or TS-453A.
If you’re willing to experiment a little, setting up UnRAID on your i5-6500 would give you way better performance than any budget QNAP.
1. Used QNAP Models
Since you like QNAP but want something snappier, look for a used TS-453A, TS-453B, or TS-453Be. These models have a quad-core CPU, run QTS much better, and are often available second-hand for £200-300. They also support M.2 caching & PCIe expansion, which helps with performance.
2. Budget-Friendly New NAS
QNAP TS-431K (~£250) – Basic 4-bay, but only ARM-based (not great for apps).
Asustor AS3304T (~£280) – Better performance than your TS-351, but UI isn't as refined.
3. DIY Alternative – Repurpose Your i5-6500 Build
Since you already have a mATX board & Intel i5-6500, you could use UnRAID instead of TrueNAS. It’s way easier to set up, supports RAID-like flexibility, and has a nice GUI—much more beginner-friendly. You can build a much faster NAS than any QNAP for less money.
What I’d Recommend:
If you want a plug-and-play solution, look for a used QNAP TS-453Be or TS-453A.
If you’re willing to experiment a little, setting up UnRAID on your i5-6500 would give you way better performance than any budget QNAP.