Finding the best NAS for remote teams in 2026 requires balancing performance, ease of access, and scalability. The Synology DS1525+ stands out as the overall top choice thanks to its robust features and expandability. For those prioritizing simplicity and quick setup, the Synology DS223j offers an accessible entry point. Meanwhile, the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ provides a powerful mix of features suited for more demanding workflows. Each option presents tradeoffs between cost, complexity, and capacity. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you pick the best NAS for your remote team.
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Key Takeaways
- The top NAS options offer a range of capacities from 2 to 8 bays, influencing scalability and storage limits.
- Performance features like 10GbE ports and powerful CPUs are key for teams handling large files or media production.
- Ease of setup and user interface vary significantly; diskless models tend to be more beginner-friendly.
- Expandability options, such as additional drive bays and external ports, matter for future growth.
- Pricing varies widely, with diskless models often offering better value but requiring additional investment in drives.
| Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1221+ (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Small Business Data Management | Form Factor: 2U rackmount | Number of Bays: 8 | Performance: Up to 2,315 MB/s read | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU |  | Best for Media Streaming and Home Use | CPU: Intel | Number of Bays: 2 | Media Support: 4K streaming | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Media Content Creation and Small Business | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 | Memory: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB) | Storage Bays: 4 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS |  | Best Compact and Energy-Efficient NAS | Number of Bays: 2 | Warranty: 2 years | Form Factor: Desktop | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS1525+ Video Editing & Production Server – 5-Bay NAS, 300TB Expandable, 10GbE Ready |  | Best for Professional Media Collaboration | Maximum Storage: 300TB | Network Speed: 10GbE ready | Number of Bays: 5 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Multi-User Media and Surveillance Integration | Number of Bays: 4 | Type: Diskless NAS | Data Transfer Speed: 278 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best for High-Speed Data Transfer and Virtualization | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Throughput: 522/565 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NAS for remote team | Warranty | Number of Bays |
|---|---|---|
| Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1 | 3 years | 8 |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud | 3 years | 2 |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | — | — |
| Synology DiskStation DS223j | 2 years | 2 |
| Synology DS1525+ Video Editing | 3 Years | 5 |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | 3 years | 4 |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | 3 years | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1221+ (Diskless)
The Synology RS1221+ excels as the most comprehensive option for small teams that need centralized storage with high performance. Its 2U rackmount design packs 8 bays, supporting heavy workloads and high availability configurations—features that set it apart from the more modest DS225+ or DS223j. While it’s diskless and requires additional drives, this offers flexibility for tailored storage setups, unlike pre-configured alternatives. The main tradeoff is its premium price and complexity, making it less ideal for those new to NAS systems. This model makes sense for organizations prioritizing reliability, scalability, and uptime in a compact rack environment.
Pros:- Exceptional performance with up to 2,315 MB/s read and 1,147 MB/s write speeds
- Supports high-availability clustering for business continuity
- Compact rack-depth suits small server rooms
- Robust data protection and workload management
Cons:- Requires purchasing and installing drives separately
- Setup complexity may overwhelm beginners
- Higher cost compared to smaller or simpler NAS options
Best for: Small businesses with existing drive pools or IT teams capable of managing complex setups.
Not ideal for: Home users or small teams seeking an out-of-the-box, easy-to-set-up solution without rack infrastructure.
- Form Factor:2U rackmount
- Number of Bays:8
- Performance:Up to 2,315 MB/s read
- Workload Support:Heavy workloads
- Data Protection:Supports clustering
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Ideal for small teams needing a scalable, high-performance rackmount NAS with enterprise features.”
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU
The Synology DS225+ is tailored for users seeking a private cloud with media capabilities, standing out from the larger RS1221+ with its simplified 2-bay design. Its Intel CPU and support for 4K media playback make it a strong choice for home users or small offices focused on media streaming, backups, and surveillance. Compared with the DS223j, it offers better processing power but shares the drawback of being diskless, so drives must be purchased separately. Its advanced features, like AI surveillance support, are appealing but may be complex for less tech-savvy users. This NAS is well-suited for media enthusiasts and light business use, but less so for those needing large storage capacity or enterprise features.
Pros:- Supports 4K media playback and streaming
- Includes automated backups and multi-layer data protection
- Supports smart home surveillance with AI detection
- Compact and energy-efficient
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of drives, adding to cost
- Setup may be challenging for beginners unfamiliar with advanced features
- Limited storage capacity for larger media libraries
Best for: Home users or small teams needing media streaming, backup, and surveillance capabilities without complex setup.
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring large storage or high-performance workloads, as it is limited by only two bays and modest hardware.
- CPU:Intel
- Number of Bays:2
- Media Support:4K streaming
- Backup Features:Automated backups
- Surveillance:Supports up to 30 IP cameras
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Best suited for home or small office users who prioritize media and surveillance features with simple network access.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers a compelling balance of power and flexibility for users involved in media editing or content creation, especially compared to the more basic DS223j. Its Intel Celeron N5105 processor and dual 5GbE ports enable fast data transfers and efficient multitasking, making it suitable for high-resolution media workflows. Its hybrid storage support for SATA and NVMe SSDs provides performance scalability, but the base 4GB RAM may limit performance in intensive tasks unless upgraded. The HDMI output and hardware transcoding add media versatility, but setup complexity can be a hurdle for less experienced users. This NAS is ideal for creative professionals or small teams managing large media files, though it may be overkill for casual users.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor for multitasking
- Supports hybrid storage with SATA and NVMe SSDs
- Dual 5GbE ports for fast networking
- Hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output
Cons:- Base 4GB RAM may need upgrading for demanding tasks
- No included drives, increasing initial cost
- Complex setup for beginners
Best for: Content creators or small teams needing fast, flexible media processing and editing capabilities.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS with minimal setup or those with limited technical expertise.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- Memory:4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Storage Bays:4
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
- Video Output:HDMI
- Supported RAID:0/1/5/6/JBOD
Our verdict“Designed for creative professionals who need high-performance media handling with flexible storage options.”
Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS
The Synology DS223j offers a straightforward, energy-efficient choice for small-scale private cloud storage, standing in contrast to more advanced models like the DS225+. Its two bays limit expandability but keep maintenance simple and costs low. Designed for basic file sharing, backups, and surveillance, it provides reliable hardware with a 2-year warranty. However, its limited bays and lack of pre-installed drives mean it’s less suitable for users with growing storage needs or those requiring plug-and-play simplicity. This NAS makes sense for home users or small offices with modest storage demands and minimal technical expertise, but it falls short for larger, more demanding environments.
Pros:- Compact and energy-efficient design
- Supports multi-platform file sharing and surveillance
- Reliable hardware with a 2-year warranty
- Simple setup for users with basic technical skills
Cons:- Limited to two bays, restricting future expansion
- Requires purchasing drives separately
- Less suitable for demanding workloads or large media libraries
Best for: Home users or small offices with basic storage, backup, and surveillance needs.
Not ideal for: Teams with expanding storage requirements or those needing high-speed data transfer or advanced media features.
- Number of Bays:2
- Warranty:2 years
- Form Factor:Desktop
- Supports:File sharing, surveillance
- Energy Efficiency:High
- Pre-installed Drives:None
Our verdict“Perfect for small-scale, budget-conscious users seeking reliable, simple storage and surveillance functionality.”
Synology DS1525+ Video Editing & Production Server – 5-Bay NAS, 300TB Expandable, 10GbE Ready
The Synology DS1525+ is engineered for media professionals requiring large storage pools and fast data transfer, making it stand out from smaller or less expandable models like the DS225+. With support for up to 300TB and 10GbE connectivity, it facilitates smooth collaboration on high-resolution projects, including 4K and 8K video editing. Its extensive storage capacity and advanced media management features cater to professional workflows but come with the complexity of network setup and a higher price point. Compared to the RS1221+, it sacrifices some enterprise features for a more accessible, scalable media-centric platform. This NAS is a prime choice for media teams needing large, fast storage with room to grow, but it may be excessive for casual or small-scale users.
Pros:- Supports up to 300TB storage capacity
- 10GbE network readiness for fast data sharing
- Ideal for 4K/8K video editing workflows
- Flexible media management with AI tagging
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for setup and configuration
- Higher price may be prohibitive for casual users
- Bulkier design requires ample space
Best for: Professional media teams and content creators managing large, high-resolution files in collaborative environments.
Not ideal for: Home users or small teams with limited budgets or minimal storage needs, due to its size and cost.
- Maximum Storage:300TB
- Network Speed:10GbE ready
- Number of Bays:5
- Supported Protocols:DSM, SMB, AFP, NFS
- Warranty:3 Years
- Expandable:Yes
Our verdict“A powerful, scalable solution for professional media teams needing large, fast, and flexible storage.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ stands out for its combination of high-speed data transfer and extensive multi-user support, making it ideal for teams that need to stream media or access shared files simultaneously. Compared to the DS925+, it offers slightly lower throughput but excels in media-centric tasks and surveillance integration, supporting up to 30 IP cameras. While this NAS requires additional disks to operate, its robust data protection features, including RAID, snapshots, and backups, ensure data safety across diverse use cases. Its complex setup might challenge beginners, but for teams with some technical know-how, it offers reliable, multi-purpose performance at a more accessible price point than premium models. This pick makes the most sense for remote teams prioritizing media sharing and security features over raw throughput.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer (278 MB/s) supports efficient media streaming and file sharing
- Supports over 10 concurrent users, ideal for team collaboration
- Robust data protection with RAID, snapshots, and backup options
- Includes surveillance support for up to 30 IP cameras
Cons:- Requires additional disks to operate, increasing initial setup costs
- Complex setup process may be difficult for beginners
- Premium features and surveillance add to overall cost
Best for: Media-heavy remote teams that need reliable surveillance and multi-user access without requiring maximum throughput
Not ideal for: Teams seeking the fastest data transfer speeds or those new to NAS setup, due to its more involved configuration and higher cost for premium features
- Number of Bays:4
- Type:Diskless NAS
- Data Transfer Speed:278 MB/s
- Supported Users:10+
- Surveillance Support:30 IP cameras
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for remote teams needing media, security, and multi-user support, with some technical experience.”
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ is designed to deliver exceptional throughput, supporting up to 522/565 MB/s read/write speeds, making it suitable for data-heavy remote teams. Unlike the DS425+, it features dual 2.5GbE ports, providing network redundancy and faster connectivity for teams needing rapid file access or virtualization capabilities. While this model offers versatile functions like virtualization and surveillance, it shares the diskless nature with the DS425+, meaning additional drives are necessary to meet storage needs. Its complex setup might be daunting for NAS novices, but for teams with advanced technical skills, it offers a clear advantage in raw performance and network flexibility. This NAS makes the most sense for tech-savvy teams prioritizing speed and network resilience over simplicity.
Pros:- Exceptional throughput (up to 565 MB/s) supports intensive data workflows
- Dual 2.5GbE ports for network redundancy and faster connectivity
- Supports virtualization and surveillance integrations for advanced use cases
- Backed by a 3-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Requires additional disks, increasing initial investment
- Complex setup may challenge users unfamiliar with NAS configurations
- Higher price point reflects its premium performance
Best for: Remote teams requiring high-speed data access, virtualization, and network redundancy with some technical expertise
Not ideal for: Less experienced users or teams with limited budget, because of the need for additional drives and setup complexity
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Throughput:522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for remote teams that need blazing-fast speeds and network resilience, with the technical skills to handle setup.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on performance, build quality, usability, and scalability. We prioritized models that deliver reliable network access, fast data transfer speeds, and ease of management for remote teams. Cost-effectiveness and value were also key factors, especially for small to medium-sized teams with budget considerations. Our ranking reflects a balance between feature set, user-friendliness, and future-proofing, ensuring each option suits different team sizes and technical expertise.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best NAS For Remote Teams
Choosing the right NAS for a remote team involves considering several critical factors. Beyond initial capacity and price, you should evaluate performance capabilities, ease of setup, expandability, and how well the device integrates into your existing infrastructure. Avoid common pitfalls like underestimating future storage needs or selecting models that are too complex for your team’s technical level. Making an informed decision now can save significant costs and headaches later.Performance and Connectivity
For remote teams, network performance is paramount. Look for NAS devices with high-speed interfaces like 10GbE ports if you handle large files or media streaming. A powerful CPU and ample RAM ensure smooth multitasking and faster data processing. Consider your team’s typical workload and choose a device that can handle peak demands without lag or bottlenecks.
Ease of Use and Management
Simplicity matters, especially if your team lacks dedicated IT support. Diskless models or pre-configured systems can minimize setup time and troubleshooting. User interfaces that are intuitive and provide good remote management tools reduce ongoing maintenance. Avoid overly complex systems if ease of use is a priority for your team.
Scalability and Expandability
Think about the future. A NAS with additional drive bays, external ports, or expansion units allows your storage to grow without replacing the entire device. This flexibility can be a game-changer for expanding teams or increasing data needs over time. Be cautious of models with limited upgrade paths, which may require costly replacements later.
Cost and Total Investment
Initial costs include the NAS device plus drives, which can significantly impact your budget. Diskless models often offer better value upfront but require separate drive purchases. Balance your current needs against future growth; sometimes paying more initially for a scalable system results in lower total costs over time.
Security and Remote Access
Data security is vital for remote teams. Look for NAS options with built-in encryption, VPN support, and robust user permissions. Features like automatic backups and remote management tools are essential to protect your data and facilitate secure remote collaboration. Skimping on security features can expose your team to unnecessary risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a high-end NAS with 10GbE for my remote team?
If your team handles large files, video editing, or media streaming, a NAS with 10GbE ports can significantly reduce transfer times and improve workflow efficiency. For smaller teams or lighter workloads, gigabit Ethernet may suffice, avoiding the extra cost. Consider your typical data load and future growth plans to determine if investing in 10GbE is justified.
Is a diskless NAS a good choice for a remote team?
Diskless NAS devices offer flexibility and often better initial value because you can choose drives based on your needs. They are generally easier to upgrade and maintain, making them suitable for teams with some technical expertise. However, they require purchasing drives separately, which can add to upfront costs and planning complexity.
How important is expandability for a remote team’s NAS?
Expandability is crucial if your data needs are expected to grow rapidly. Devices with additional drive bays or external port options provide a way to scale without replacing the entire system. If your current storage is sufficient but you anticipate expansion, investing in a more expandable model can save money and effort later.
What should I prioritize: performance or ease of use?
This depends on your team’s technical skills and workload. If your team requires high-performance access for large media files, prioritize devices with faster CPUs and ports. Conversely, if ease of use and quick setup are more important, opt for models with intuitive interfaces and simplified management features. Balancing both factors is ideal but depends on your specific situation.
Is it worth paying more for a premium NAS?
Premium NAS devices often offer superior build quality, faster performance, and greater expandability. If your team relies heavily on data access, media production, or needs robust security, investing in a higher-end model can pay off through improved productivity and future-proofing. For small teams with modest needs, a more affordable model might be sufficient.
Conclusion
For most remote teams, the Synology DS1525+ strikes the best balance of performance, expandability, and user-friendliness, making it the ideal choice for larger or growing teams. If budget constraints are tighter, the Synology DS223j provides an accessible entry point with reliable features. The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ is well-suited for teams with demanding workflows needing higher performance. For beginners or smaller teams, models with simplified management are wise, while larger organizations should consider more scalable, enterprise-grade options. Your choice ultimately hinges on your team size, technical comfort, and future growth plans.
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