Searching for a reliable NAS 6-bay solution? The best options balance performance, expandability, and user-friendliness. The QNAP TS-664 stands out as the overall top pick thanks to its solid performance and versatile features, while the Synology DS1621+ delivers exceptional expandability for demanding environments. However, these choices involve tradeoffs, such as higher costs or complexity for advanced features. Continue reading to see a detailed breakdown of each model and find the perfect fit for your needs.
Get business pricing on tech for your team
- Business-only prices and quantity discounts
- Tax-exempt purchasing
- Multiple users, one account, clear invoices
Key Takeaways
- Performance varies significantly, with some models like the QNAP TS-673A offering high-end processing power suitable for intensive workloads.
- Build quality and expandability are key factors, especially for long-term use, as seen in Synology and QNAP options.
- Price ranges widely; diskless units offer flexibility but require additional investment in drives, influencing overall value.
- Connectivity features like multi-gig ports and PCIe slots differentiate premium models from basic ones.
- User experience, including setup and management, is smoother in brands like Synology, making them better for beginners.
| UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay Desktop NAS, Intel Core i3 1215U 6-Core CPU |  | Best Overall for Business-Grade Performance | Brand: UGREEN | Model Number: DXP6800 Plus | Number of Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-664 6-Bay Desktop NAS |  | Best for Home and Small Office Users Needing Flexible Connectivity | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 4-Core/4-Thread | RAM: 8GB DDR4 (Non-Expandable) | Hard Drive Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay, Intel N95 4-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 (Diskless) |  | Best for Power Users Wanting DDR5 and Business Features | Hard Disk Interface: NVMe | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, USB | Additional Features: High Performance CPU, DDR5 Memory, Dual 2.5GbE Ports | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Performance NAS |  | Best for Power Users Needing Expandability and Flexibility | Processor: AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core | Number of Bays: 6 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 6-Bay NAS DiskStation DS1621+ (Diskless) |  | Best for Data Security and Scalability | Digital Storage Capacity: 4 GB | Hard Disk Interface: eSATA | CPU: AMD Ryzen Quad-core 2.2 GHz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 6-Bay 2.5″ NAS DS620slim |  | Best for Space-Conscious Users Seeking Flexibility | Drive Bays: 6 | Supported Drives: 2.5″ HDDs and SSDs | Memory: 2GB DDR3L, expandable up to 6GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Performance NAS with 2 x 2.5GbE Ports and PCIe Slots |  | Best for Power Users Needing High Flexibility and Performance | Processor: AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core, up to 2.2 GHz | Number of Bays: 6 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6706T v2 6-Bay NAS |  | Best for Content Creators and Small Teams Requiring High-Speed Networking | Brand: Asustor | Model: AS6706T v2 | Number of Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| nas 6 bay | Processor | Network Ports | Warranty | Number of Bays |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay | Intel Core i3 1215U 6-Core | 1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE | 2 years | 6 |
| QNAP TS-664 6-Bay Desktop NAS | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 4-Core/4-Thread | 2 x 2.5GbE | — | — |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay | — | — | — | — |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Perfor | AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core | 2 x 2.5GbE | 3 years | 6 |
| Synology 6-Bay NAS DiskStation | — | — | — | — |
| Synology 6-Bay 2.5" NAS DS620s | — | — | 2 years | — |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Perfor | AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core, up to 2.2 GHz | 2 x 2.5GbE | 3 Years | 6 |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | Dual 5GbE | 3 Years | 6 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay Desktop NAS, Intel Core i3 1215U 6-Core CPU
The UGREEN DXP6800 Plus stands out as the best choice for demanding business environments, thanks to its powerful Intel Core i3 processor and extensive storage capacity up to 208TB. Unlike the QNAP TS-664, which offers similar high-speed network features but with less raw processing power, this model prioritizes robust performance and security, making it ideal for data-heavy tasks. However, it’s a purely wired device and requires drives to be purchased separately, which can add to the total cost. This NAS is perfect for organizations needing reliable, high-capacity storage with advanced encryption, though it’s less suitable for home users or those seeking Wi-Fi connectivity. Its high-performance CPU and flexible RAID options make it a versatile choice for professional use, with tradeoffs in setup complexity and cost.
Pros:- High-performance Intel Core i3 processor suited for demanding tasks
- Large storage capacity up to 208TB with flexible RAID support
- Fast 10GbE and 2.5GbE network ports for high-speed data transfer
- Secure with advanced encryption options
Cons:- Drives not included, additional purchase needed
- Supports only wired Ethernet, no Wi-Fi connectivity
- Setup and configuration can be complex for beginners
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses requiring high-capacity, secure, and fast data management
Not ideal for: Home users or small office setups needing Wi-Fi or simpler setup options
- Brand:UGREEN
- Model Number:DXP6800 Plus
- Number of Bays:6
- Processor:Intel Core i3 1215U 6-Core
- Network Ports:1x 10GbE, 1x 2.5GbE
- Maximum Storage Capacity:208TB
- Supported RAID Levels:JBOD, Basic, RAID0, RAID1, RAID5, RAID6, RAID10
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS makes the most sense for professional environments needing robust, high-capacity storage with enterprise-level performance.”
QNAP TS-664 6-Bay Desktop NAS
The QNAP TS-664 offers a balanced mix of performance and expandability, featuring an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor and dual 2.5GbE ports for fast network speeds. Compared to the TerraMaster F6-424, which emphasizes raw CPU power and DDR5 memory, the TS-664 is more accessible with its user-friendly design and flexible connectivity options, especially for media streaming and backup tasks. It includes M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching, boosting performance in multi-user environments, but the onboard RAM is non-expandable, which may limit future upgrades. This NAS is ideal for those who want decent performance in a compact package without the complexity of high-end hardware, though it’s less suited for heavy enterprise workloads.
Pros:- Dual 2.5GbE ports for high-speed network connectivity
- M.2 NVMe slots for cache or additional storage
- Compact, reliable metal enclosure
- User-friendly interface for beginners
Cons:- Non-expandable RAM limits future performance upgrades
- Limited to 8GB RAM out of the box, may need upgrade for intensive use
- No included drives or accessories
Best for: Home users or small offices needing flexible network options and media management
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring high-end CPU power or extensive expandability
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 4-Core/4-Thread
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (Non-Expandable)
- Hard Drive Bays:6
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe
- Hard Drive Interface:Serial ATA
- Form Factor:Desktop
- Weight:4.54 kg
Our verdict“This NAS is a practical choice for users seeking flexible, high-speed media and backup solutions in a straightforward package.”
TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay, Intel N95 4-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 (Diskless)
The TerraMaster F6-424 distinguishes itself with an Intel N95 quad-core CPU and DDR5 memory, offering impressive data speeds and future-proofing for small to medium-sized businesses. It compares favorably to the Synology DS1621+ for raw performance, especially with faster RAM and dual 2.5G Ethernet ports. However, being diskless, it requires the additional purchase of drives and might be more complex to set up for less experienced users. Its high-speed DDR5 RAM and versatile RAID options make it suitable for demanding workloads, but the higher price point and need for extra drives might deter casual users.
Pros:- Powerful Intel N95 CPU with DDR5 memory
- Fast data transfer with dual 2.5G Ethernet ports
- Easy SSD installation with tool-free design
- Supports multiple RAID configurations and backup options
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of drives (diskless setup)
- May be complex for NAS beginners
- Limited RAM out of the box, upgradeable up to 32GB
Best for: Business users wanting high-speed performance and future scalability
Not ideal for: Home users or those seeking an all-in-one, ready-to-use solution
- Hard Disk Interface:NVMe
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, USB
- Additional Features:High Performance CPU, DDR5 Memory, Dual 2.5GbE Ports
- Supported Devices:Android, Linux, Mac, Windows, iOS
- Read Speed:283 MB/s
- Media Speed:283 MB/s
- Data Transfer Rate:283 MB/s
- Item Weight:4.6 pounds
Our verdict“This NAS caters to heavy-duty business applications needing speed, scalability, and robust hardware, with some setup complexity involved.”
QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Performance NAS
The QNAP TS-673A is a robust choice for advanced users, featuring an AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor and multiple 2.5GbE ports that support high-speed networking. Compared with the Synology DS1621+, it offers greater hardware flexibility, thanks to PCIe slots for expansion and SSD caching support, making it suitable for multimedia editing or intensive workflows. However, its setup can be daunting for beginners, and its higher price reflects its premium features. If you need exceptional performance and expandability, this device offers a compelling package, but less experienced users might find it intimidating to configure properly.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen V1500B processor ensures smooth multitasking
- Multiple 2.5GbE ports for high-speed networking
- PCIe slots for expansion and add-ons
- Supports SSD caching for performance optimization
Cons:- Setup complexity may challenge beginners
- Higher price point compared to entry-level NAS devices
- Requires technical know-how for optimal configuration
Best for: Power users and professionals who need expandability and high-speed performance
Not ideal for: Casual users or small offices with limited technical expertise
- Processor:AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core
- Number of Bays:6
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- USB Ports:3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2
- SSD Slots:2 x M.2 PCIe NVMe
- Supported Operating Systems:QTS, QuTS hero
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is tailored for advanced users who need expandable, high-performance storage with room to grow, accepting a steeper learning curve.”
Synology 6-Bay NAS DiskStation DS1621+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS1621+ excels in data protection, offering high performance with 174% higher 4K random read IOPS than many competitors, making it ideal for backup and enterprise workloads. Its scalability with expansion units surpasses many in this roundup, including the TerraMaster F6-424, which focuses more on raw CPU power. Although it’s diskless and heavy, requiring additional drives and space, its software ecosystem and reliability make it a solid choice for growing businesses. This model favors users prioritizing data integrity and expandability over out-of-the-box performance, with setup complexity being a consideration for less experienced users.
Pros:- Exceptional performance with significantly higher 4K IOPS
- Supports expansion units for increased capacity
- Robust backup and security features
- Reliable hardware build
Cons:- No included drives, additional purchase necessary
- Heavy and requires dedicated space
- Complex setup for beginners
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses needing scalable, secure, and reliable storage
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking an all-in-one, ready-to-use NAS
- Digital Storage Capacity:4 GB
- Hard Disk Interface:eSATA
- CPU:AMD Ryzen Quad-core 2.2 GHz
- Hard Disk Form Factor:6 inches
- Data Transfer Rate:1 Gbps
- Installed Cache Memory:2 GB
- Item Weight:5.1 kg
- Number of Items:1
Our verdict“This NAS is well-suited for organizations prioritizing data security, scalability, and long-term growth, despite its setup complexity.”
Synology 6-Bay 2.5″ NAS DS620slim
The Synology DS620slim stands out for its compact, mini-sized design, making it ideal for users who need a powerful NAS without sacrificing space. Compared to larger units like the Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+, it offers a more streamlined footprint but limits you to 2.5-inch drives, which may require adapters for certain storage needs. Its support for high-speed data transfer and 4K transcoding makes it suitable for media enthusiasts and small offices. However, its reliance on 2.5-inch drives and the lack of included storage can add to the overall cost, especially for those who need large capacities. This pick makes the most sense for users prioritizing space efficiency, media streaming, and manageable setup complexity.
Pros:- Compact and space-efficient design
- Supports high-speed data transfer and 4K transcoding
- Flexible RAID and storage options
- Expandable memory for increased performance
Cons:- Limited to 2.5-inch drives, requiring adapters for some storage needs
- No included drives, increasing initial costs
- Advanced features may demand technical knowledge
Best for: Small offices or home users needing a compact, high-performance NAS for media and data management
Not ideal for: Users requiring large storage capacities or easy integration with 3.5-inch drives, due to drive size limitations and additional adapters needed
- Drive Bays:6
- Supported Drives:2.5″ HDDs and SSDs
- Memory:2GB DDR3L, expandable up to 6GB
- Maximum Single Volume Size:108 TB
- Network Speed:Over 220 MB/s read, 190 MB/s write
- Video Transcoding:4K H.265/H.264 on the fly
- Snapshot Capacity:65,000 system-wide, 1,024 per shared folder
- Form Factor:Mini-sized NAS
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for those who need a compact, versatile device with media capabilities and are comfortable managing drive options separately.”
QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Performance NAS with 2 x 2.5GbE Ports and PCIe Slots
The QNAP TS-673A is designed for demanding environments, offering a robust AMD Ryzen V1500B processor that outperforms many Intel-based options like the Asustor Lockerstor 6. Its dual 2.5GbE ports and PCIe expansion slots provide extensive networking and connectivity options, making it suitable for complex setups. The support for M.2 NVMe SSDs with Qtier technology enhances performance through caching, and the device’s high-performance hardware is tailored for intensive tasks such as virtualization, large data transfers, or media editing. The setup process can be more challenging for beginners, and its higher price reflects its enterprise-grade capabilities. This NAS is best for professionals who need raw power, expandability, and flexible network options.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen V1500B processor
- Dual 2.5GbE ports and PCIe slots for extensive expansion
- Supports SSD caching with M.2 NVMe and Qtier tech
- Versatile OS options with QTS and QuTS hero
Cons:- Setup complexity can be daunting for beginners
- Higher price point limits casual use
- Overkill for simple storage needs
Best for: Small businesses or advanced home users with demanding performance needs and technical proficiency
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS experience, due to its complex setup and higher cost
- Processor:AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core, up to 2.2 GHz
- Number of Bays:6
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- PCIe Slots:2 x PCIe Gen 3
- SSD Slots:2 x M.2 NVMe
- Supported Operating Systems:QTS, QuTS hero
- Warranty:3 Years
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for users who require high performance, expandability, and are comfortable with advanced configurations.”
Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6706T v2 6-Bay NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ excels for professional workflows, especially content creators needing high-speed networking and media transcoding. Its quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 processor delivers solid performance for multitasking, while dual 5GbE ports prepare it for future 10GbE upgrades. The NAS supports multiple M.2 NVMe SSDs for caching, boosting media access speeds, and flexible hybrid storage handles both HDDs and SSDs. Compared to the Synology DS620slim, it offers more extensive networking options and greater flexibility for media-heavy tasks. The complex setup and premium price tag might deter casual users, but it’s well suited for demanding media workflows. This device makes the most sense for professionals who prioritize network speed and media performance.
Pros:- Dual 5GbE ports with upgrade potential to 10GbE
- Supports multiple M.2 NVMe SSDs for caching
- Flexible hybrid storage with HDD and SSD support
- Great for 4K media playback and editing workflows
Cons:- Requires additional drives for full storage capacity
- Setup complexity may challenge beginners
- Higher price point for casual or basic users
Best for: Content creators, small media teams, or small businesses needing high-speed networking and 4K media support
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with minimal media needs, due to its higher complexity and cost
- Brand:Asustor
- Model:AS6706T v2
- Number of Bays:6
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
- SSD Slots:4 M.2 NVMe
- Supported Storage:SATA HDDs and SSDs
- Warranty:3 Years
Our verdict“This NAS is best for professionals who need high-speed networking, media capabilities, and are comfortable with detailed setup procedures.”
How We Picked
These NAS 6-bay models were selected based on a combination of performance, build quality, expandability, and user-friendliness. Priority was given to devices with robust hardware, flexible upgrade options, and positive user reviews. Devices with better connectivity features and future-proof capabilities ranked higher, while models with known issues or limited support were excluded. The goal was to identify options suitable for a range of users, from home enthusiasts to small businesses, ensuring each product offers a clear advantage in its category.| nas 6 bay | Processor |
|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay | Intel Core i3 1215U 6-Core |
| QNAP TS-664 6-Bay Desktop NAS | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 4-Core/4-Thread |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay | — |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Perfor | AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core |
| Synology 6-Bay NAS DiskStation | — |
| Synology 6-Bay 2.5" NAS DS620s | — |
| QNAP TS-673A 6-Bay High-Perfor | AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core, up to 2.2 GHz |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Nas 6 Bay
Choosing the right NAS 6-bay depends on several critical factors beyond just raw storage capacity. Understanding your specific needs, such as performance, expandability, or ease of use, will help narrow your options. Carefully evaluating these considerations can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your investment remains valuable over time.Performance and Processor Power
High-performance processors are essential if you plan to run multiple services or virtual machines. Models with Intel Core or higher-tier AMD chips excel here, offering smoother operation under heavy workloads. Cheaper or less powerful CPUs may suffice for simple backups or media streaming but can hinder multitasking or intensive applications.
Expandability and Connectivity
Look for models with multiple network ports, including multi-gig options, to future-proof your network. PCIe slots for adding SSD cache or additional network cards improve performance and flexibility. An expandable RAM slot can also make a significant difference in handling larger workloads over time.
Ease of Use and Management
User-friendly interfaces and reliable management tools make setup and ongoing maintenance less stressful, especially for beginners. Brands like Synology are known for their intuitive OS, while QNAP offers more advanced customization for experienced users. Consider your comfort level with technical configuration when choosing.
Budget and Total Cost of Ownership
Diskless units tend to be more flexible but require additional investment in drives, which can add up. Balance initial costs with long-term value; sometimes paying more upfront yields better performance and longevity. Remember that higher-end models often include features that reduce future upgrade costs.
Future-Proofing and Scalability
Opt for models that support expansion, either via additional bays, PCIe upgrades, or multiple network ports. This approach ensures your NAS can grow with your data needs, avoiding the need for a new purchase in a few years. Consider your anticipated storage and performance growth when evaluating options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start with fewer drives and add more later?
Yes, many NAS 6-bay models support expanding storage over time, either by replacing drives with larger ones or adding expansion units if supported. However, check the specific model’s capabilities, as some may have limitations on maximum capacity or expansion options. Planning ahead for future growth can save you from having to replace your device prematurely.
Is it better to buy a diskless NAS or one with drives included?
Choosing a diskless NAS offers more flexibility, allowing you to select drives that match your performance and capacity needs. It also typically costs less upfront. However, it requires additional time and investment to purchase compatible drives. Pre-populated models simplify setup but come with higher initial costs and less customization.
How important are multi-gig network ports for a NAS?
Multi-gig ports significantly improve data transfer speeds, especially when multiple users access the NAS simultaneously or you stream large media files. If your network infrastructure supports 2.5GbE or higher, having these ports becomes a valuable feature. For basic home use, gigabit ports may suffice, but for business or high-performance needs, multi-gig is worth considering.
Should I prioritize processor speed over RAM capacity?
Both matter, but the choice depends on your workload. A faster processor benefits tasks that require intensive computation, such as transcoding or running virtual machines. Sufficient RAM ensures smooth multitasking and caching. For most users, a balanced approach—decent CPU with ample RAM—delivers the best overall performance.
Is a higher price always worth it for a NAS?
Not necessarily. Higher-priced models often include advanced features, better build quality, and higher performance, which are valuable in demanding environments. However, for simple backups or media streaming, a more affordable model may suffice. Focus on matching features to your actual needs to avoid paying for capabilities you won’t use.
Conclusion
For home users or those new to NAS, the Synology DS620slim offers an intuitive experience at a reasonable price, making it ideal for beginners. Small businesses seeking a balance of performance and expandability should consider the QNAP TS-664, which provides versatile features without overwhelming complexity. Power users or those with demanding workloads will find the QNAP TS-673A or Synology DS1621+ worth the investment, offering robust hardware and future-proof options. Overall, your choice should align with your current needs and anticipated growth, ensuring your NAS remains a reliable part of your infrastructure for years to come.
