QNAP vs. Synology

[Enquiries]

In terms of best for using as a Plex server, would you recommend the Synology DS1522 (or different model better) or would a QNAP TS-873A be better. I would like it to be future-proof and optimal as a Plex server that will need to do some transcoding, but mostly internal (inside home).

[ed]

Choosing the right NAS for a Plex server is crucial, especially if you're looking to future-proof your setup and ensure it can handle everything you throw at it. Let’s dive into the key differences between the Synology DS1522+ and the QNAP TS-873A, so you can make an informed decision.

Synology DS1522+:
CPU: The DS1522+ comes with an AMD Ryzen R1600 processor, which is quite capable for general NAS duties. However, it's important to note that this model lacks a dedicated hardware transcoding engine. What this means is that if your Plex server needs to transcode 4K content or handle multiple simultaneous streams, the DS1522+ may struggle. While it’s great for direct play (where your devices can handle the file format natively), heavy transcoding could cause performance issues.

RAM: With 8GB of RAM (expandable to 32GB), the DS1522+ can handle most home server tasks well, but the limiting factor will still be the CPU, especially if you’re running other apps or services alongside Plex.

User Experience: Synology’s DSM software is one of the best in the business—intuitive, clean, and easy to navigate. If you're looking for a hassle-free experience with strong support, Synology is a solid choice. However, given your focus on Plex and the need for transcoding, this model might not fully meet your needs.

QNAP TS-873A:
CPU: The TS-873A, on the other hand, is equipped with an AMD Ryzen V1500B processor, which is significantly more powerful than the R1600 in the Synology. This processor is much better suited for tasks like transcoding, especially with 4K content. It’s a more robust option if you expect your Plex server to handle a variety of media formats and potentially transcode multiple streams simultaneously.

GPU Option: A standout feature of the TS-873A is its ability to add a GPU card, which can significantly boost transcoding performance. This is particularly useful if you anticipate heavy or complex transcoding tasks, as a dedicated GPU can offload these processes from the CPU, ensuring smoother playback and a better overall experience.

RAM: The TS-873A comes with 8GB of RAM, but it’s expandable up to 64GB. This gives you a lot more headroom, especially if you plan to run additional services or virtual machines on the NAS alongside Plex.

Flexibility and Power: QNAP’s QTS is highly customizable and powerful, though it does come with a steeper learning curve compared to Synology’s DSM. If you’re comfortable with a bit of extra complexity, QNAP’s platform offers more control and expandability, making it a better choice for a demanding Plex server setup.