If you’re searching for a 4 bay NAS for Plex, you’re likely balancing storage capacity, media streaming performance, and ease of setup. The Ugreen NAS DXP4800 Pro stands out for power users who need raw performance, while the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers a premium experience with advanced features. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price against features like transcoding power, scalability, and user-friendliness. Keep reading for a detailed look at how these options compare and which one best fits your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Performance and transcoding capabilities vary significantly; choose based on your media quality needs.
- Pre-configured units save setup time but often come at a higher price; diskless models offer flexibility but require assembly.
- Build quality and expandability differ, affecting long-term usability and future upgrades.
- Network connectivity options, such as multi-gig ports and bundled cables, influence streaming reliability.
- Pricing reflects features like CPU power, RAM, and software ecosystem—decide what’s most valuable for your Plex setup.
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users |  | Best for Demanding Workflows and Advanced Features | Digital Storage Capacity: 144 TB | Hard Disk Interface: SATA | Connectivity Technology: SATA | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 AS3304T v2 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Home and Small Office with High-Speed Networking | Processor: Realtek quad-core | RAM: 2GB DDR4 | Storage Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Content Creators and Small Business with High-Speed Needs | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 | Memory: 4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB | Storage Slots: 4 M.2 NVMe SSD slots + SATA | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best for Home Media and Backup with 4K Support | Processor: Intel x86 quad-core | RAM: 4GB | Storage Capacity: up to 120TB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NAS (Diskless) Bundle with Cat 8 Ethernet Cable 6FT |  | Best for Beginners with Massive Storage Needs | Digital Storage Capacity: 128 TB | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet | Additional Features: AI-Driven Photo Management and Backup | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay for Creators, Tech Enthusiasts, and Office Teams |  | Best for High-Performance Multi-User Environments | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz | RAM: 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB (4 bays, 32TB each, with NVMe support) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| bay nas for plex | Processor | Additional Features | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | — | Docker Support, Virtual Machine Support, AI-Powered Photo Recognition | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 A | Realtek quad-core | — | 2GB DDR4 |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 | — | — |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | Intel x86 quad-core | — | 4GB |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay D | — | AI-Driven Photo Management and Backup | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz | Built-in surveillance center, SD card slot, local privacy controls | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay for IT Professionals, Developers & Power Users
This model stands out for its high-performance hardware, making it ideal for professionals who need robust processing power and extensive storage. Compared to the Asustor Lockerstor 4, it offers much stronger virtualization and AI capabilities, but at a significantly higher price. Its enterprise-grade security and flexible RAID options cater to data-sensitive workflows, though setup can be complex for those lacking technical expertise. The large size and cost are tradeoffs for its advanced features, making it less suitable for casual users. Overall, this NAS is best suited for IT departments or power users managing large, critical datasets.Pros:- High-performance Intel hardware for demanding tasks
- Supports virtualization, Docker, and AI features
- Enterprise-grade security with RAID options
Cons:- Complex setup requiring technical expertise
- Large physical footprint and high cost
Best for: IT professionals, developers, and power users requiring intensive workloads and virtualization support
Not ideal for: Home users or small offices with limited technical skills and simpler storage needs
- Digital Storage Capacity:144 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:SATA
- Connectivity Technology:SATA
- Additional Features:Docker Support, Virtual Machine Support, AI-Powered Photo Recognition
- Form Factor:3.5-inch
- Hardware Platform:x86
Our verdict“This NAS fits well into professional environments where performance and advanced features justify the investment.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 AS3304T v2 4-Bay NAS
This NAS offers a balanced mix of speed and simplicity, with 2.5GbE connectivity providing much faster network transfers than typical Gigabit models like the TERRAMASTER F4-425. Its user-friendly, tool-free drive installation makes it accessible for non-technical users, but the limited 2GB RAM could hinder multitasking with demanding apps. Compared to the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro, it lacks enterprise security and virtualization, but for home and small office setups, its ease of use and flexible RAID options make it a compelling choice. The absence of included drives and modest hardware specs are notable tradeoffs.Pros:- High-speed 2.5GbE network connectivity
- Tool-free, flexible RAID configurations
- Private cloud capabilities for remote access
Cons:- Limited to 2GB RAM, restricting multitasking
- Diskless setup requires additional hard drives
Best for: Home users and small office teams needing fast network access and easy setup
Not ideal for: Power users or IT professionals seeking extensive virtualization or high-end hardware
- Processor:Realtek quad-core
- RAM:2GB DDR4
- Storage Bays:4
- Network Connectivity:2.5GbE Ethernet
- Supported RAID:0, 1, 5, 6, JBOD
- Operating System:Linux
Our verdict“Ideal for users prioritizing quick setup and high-speed network access in a home or small office environment.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS
This NAS excels with dual 5GbE ports and support for hybrid storage, making it perfect for users who need fast data transfer and media handling. Its support for 4K transcoding and HDMI output makes it suitable for media professionals, standing out against the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro in content creation capabilities, though at a higher price. The expandable RAM up to 16GB and support for NVMe caching offer scalability, but the initial 4GB RAM and lack of included drives could limit performance for heavy workloads. This model is best suited for small media teams or content creators who need speed and flexibility.Pros:- Dual 5GbE ports for high-speed networking
- Supports hybrid storage with HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe cache
- 4K transcoding and HDMI output for media playback
Cons:- Requires additional disks, no included drives
- Out-of-the-box 4GB RAM may need upgrade for heavy tasks
Best for: Content creators, small media teams, and small businesses needing fast media processing and flexible storage
Not ideal for: Individuals or organizations with limited budget or minimal media transcoding needs
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- Memory:4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB
- Storage Slots:4 M.2 NVMe SSD slots + SATA
- Network Connectivity:Dual 5GbE
- Video Output:HDMI
- Maximum RAM:16 GB
Our verdict“Best suited for media professionals who require fast, flexible storage and media output capabilities.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 offers a straightforward, reliable option for home users needing solid performance and 4K transcoding. Its Intel x86 processor and 4GB RAM provide enough power for multi-user access and media streaming, making it a more accessible choice than the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro for less demanding environments. The quiet operation and mobile app control simplify management, but some users report variability in performance, and the limited RAM might pose issues for intensive multitasking. This device strikes a balance between affordability and capability for home media and backup tasks.Pros:- Powerful quad-core Intel processor
- Supports 4K hardware decoding
- Quiet operation at 21dB
Cons:- Customer reviews indicate possible performance variability
- Limited to 4GB RAM, upgrades may be necessary
Best for: Home users seeking reliable multimedia streaming and data backup
Not ideal for: Power users or enterprise environments needing virtualization or heavy workloads
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Storage Capacity:up to 120TB
- Network:2.5GbE port
- Number of Bays:4
- Noise Level:21dB
Our verdict“A dependable choice for home media and backup, especially for those seeking quiet operation and easy management.”
UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NAS (Diskless) Bundle with Cat 8 Ethernet Cable 6FT
This entry-level NAS offers a straightforward setup with a focus on large storage capacity, making it ideal for users with extensive media libraries. Its user-friendly app and included high-quality Ethernet cable simplify network setup, but it lacks virtual machine support and disks, requiring additional purchases. Compared to the Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro, it provides less in terms of performance features but excels in storage capacity and ease of use. The absence of included drives and limited advanced features mean it’s best for home users or beginners who prioritize capacity over performance.Pros:- Massive storage capacity for large media libraries
- Easy setup with user-friendly app
- Includes high-quality Cat 8 Ethernet cable
Cons:- Disks are not included, additional purchase needed
- No support for virtual machines or advanced features
Best for: Home users or beginners needing large storage with simple setup
Not ideal for: Advanced users or those wanting virtualization or media transcoding
- Digital Storage Capacity:128 TB
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet
- Additional Features:AI-Driven Photo Management and Backup
- Enclosure Material:Metal
- Warranty & Support:30-day return policy
Our verdict“Perfect for beginners or home users prioritizing storage capacity and easy setup over advanced functionality.”
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay for Creators, Tech Enthusiasts, and Office Teams
The UGREEN DXP4800 GT stands out for its powerful AMD Ryzen embedded processor and expansive connectivity options, making it ideal for creators and small businesses handling media-heavy workloads. Compared to the TERRAMASTER F4-425, which is diskless and geared more toward budget-conscious users, this model offers integrated features like dual 10GbE ports and a comprehensive media ecosystem supporting Docker and virtual machines. While its high performance and versatility are impressive, the setup can be complex, especially for users unfamiliar with advanced networking or surveillance features. Additionally, drives are not included, adding to initial costs, and the non-ECC RAM limits its use for critical data integrity applications. It’s best suited for small teams needing robust multitasking and media processing, but less ideal for users seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen embedded processor supports heavy multitasking
- Dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation enable high-speed networking
- Supports extensive media ecosystem, including Docker and virtual machines
- Large storage potential up to 144TB with SSD expandability
Cons:- Drives not included, leading to higher initial setup costs
- Complex configuration for advanced features like surveillance and virtual machines
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, limiting data integrity for critical tasks
Best for: Tech-savvy creators and small office teams requiring high multitasking performance and media processing capabilities
Not ideal for: Home users or small businesses seeking an easy, straightforward NAS with minimal setup or maintenance
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB (4 bays, 32TB each, with NVMe support)
- Network:Dual 10GbE ports, support for Link Aggregation
- Drive Bays:4 SATA bays, 2 U.2 NVMe slots, 2 M.2 SSD slots
- Connectivity:USB 3.2, USB-C, HDMI 4K/8K support
- Security:TLS/SSL, RSA, AES, SHA-512, RAID support
- Additional Features:Built-in surveillance center, SD card slot, local privacy controls
Our verdict“This NAS suits technically skilled users who need high performance and expandability for media and multitasking, but it may overwhelm beginners or those seeking simplicity.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on a combination of performance, ease of use, build quality, expandability, and value for Plex users. We prioritized units with reliable media transcoding, robust hardware, and user-friendly interfaces, especially for streaming high-bitrate 4K content. Devices were ranked considering their price-to-performance ratio, upgrade options, and real-world usability, ensuring they meet the needs of both casual viewers and power users. Our selection aims to highlight options suitable for various budgets and technical expertise, from diskless setups to fully equipped units.| bay nas for plex | Additional Features | Processor |
|---|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro 4-Bay f | Docker Support, Virtual Machine Support, AI-Powered Photo Recognition | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Pro Gen2 A | — | Realtek quad-core |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | — | Intel Celeron N5105 |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | — | Intel x86 quad-core |
| UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay D | AI-Driven Photo Management and Backup | — |
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | Built-in surveillance center, SD card slot, local privacy controls | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514, 4 cores, up to 3.70GHz |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 4 Bay Nas For Plex
Choosing the right 4 bay NAS for Plex requires careful consideration of several factors beyond raw specs. It’s important to balance your current needs with potential future upgrades, network capabilities, and media demands. Understanding these factors can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure your investment remains relevant as your media library grows.Performance and Transcoding Power
For Plex, the CPU’s ability to handle 4K transcodes without lag is critical. CPUs like Intel x86 processors typically outperform ARM-based options in this regard, especially for multiple streams. Think about your expected media quality and how many devices will stream simultaneously, then choose a NAS that can comfortably handle these scenarios. Over-investing in power may be unnecessary for casual use, while power users should prioritize higher-performance CPUs.
Ease of Use and Setup
Pre-configured models with drives included can simplify setup but often come at a premium. Diskless models provide flexibility, allowing you to choose your drives and capacity, but require some technical know-how during assembly. User interface quality and app ecosystems also matter; a well-designed OS can save hours of frustration. Consider your comfort level with network setup and whether you need dedicated support or community resources.
Expandability and Futureproofing
While 4 bays are a fixed size, look for models that support RAM upgrades or additional network ports. Some units offer PCIe slots for adding SSD cache or 10GbE adapters, which can significantly boost performance. Think about your long-term storage needs—will you need to add more drives or upgrade existing ones? Choosing a flexible platform avoids early obsolescence and ensures your media server remains useful over years.
Network Connectivity
Fast, reliable streaming depends on your network setup. Multi-gig Ethernet ports, bundled high-quality cables, and Wi-Fi compatibility are vital. If streaming high-bitrate 4K content, a multi-gig port can reduce bottlenecks. Also, consider whether your router can support these speeds or if an upgrade is needed. The right network hardware complements your NAS’s capabilities and keeps media playback smooth.
Price and Value
Higher-priced units often include better CPUs, more RAM, and enhanced features like HDMI outputs or multiple network ports, which may justify the cost for power users. Cheaper, diskless models demand investment in drives but can be more cost-effective initially. Balance your budget against your media needs—sometimes, investing a little more upfront provides a more future-proof, hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all these NAS devices handle 4K media playback for Plex?
Most of these NAS units are capable of 4K media playback, but performance depends heavily on the CPU and transcoding capabilities. Devices with Intel x86 processors, like the TERRAMASTER F4-425 or Asustor Lockerstor 4+, generally handle multiple 4K streams better than ARM-based models. Always check the CPU specifications and Plex compatibility to ensure smooth playback, especially if you plan to transcode on the fly.
Is a diskless NAS a good choice for Plex setup?
Diskless NAS units offer flexibility and often lower upfront costs, making them appealing for DIY enthusiasts. However, they require you to select and install drives, which can be a challenge for less experienced users. Diskless models also lack pre-installed drives, so you’ll need to factor in the cost and compatibility of drives. This option makes sense if you already have drives or want to customize your storage setup for future expansion.
How important is network connectivity for Plex streaming on a 4-bay NAS?
Network connectivity is critical for smooth Plex streaming, especially with multiple users or high-bitrate 4K content. Multi-gig Ethernet ports significantly reduce bottlenecks, ensuring streaming remains seamless. Bundled high-quality cables and support for Wi-Fi 6 or multi-gig adapters can also improve performance. Without sufficient network speed, even the most powerful NAS may struggle to deliver high-quality streams reliably.
Should I prioritize CPU power or drive capacity when choosing a NAS for Plex?
Prioritizing CPU power is generally more important for Plex, especially if you plan to transcode media on the fly. A robust processor ensures multiple streams and high-resolution content can be handled smoothly. Drive capacity, while essential for storage, can often be scaled over time with additional drives or external solutions. For most Plex users, a balance leaning towards a stronger CPU provides a better viewing experience.
Are all 4-bay NAS units suitable for multi-user households?
Most 4-bay NAS units are capable of supporting multiple users simultaneously, but performance varies. Devices with higher-end CPUs, more RAM, and multi-gig networking tend to handle multiple streams without lag. For larger households or offices, choosing a model with better hardware and expandable features is wise. Always consider your expected number of users and media demands when selecting a unit to ensure playback remains smooth and responsive.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most users is the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ thanks to its balance of power, usability, and future-proofing. For those seeking the best value, the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 Pro offers high performance at a more accessible price point. Beginners or casual users will find the UGREEN NAS DH4300 Plus straightforward and reliable. Power users and media professionals should consider the Terramaster F4-425 for its robust hardware, while creators will appreciate the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT for multimedia editing support. Your choice depends on your technical comfort, media demands, and budget—match the product to your specific needs for the best results.
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