Choosing the best NAS for small business backup involves balancing performance, capacity, ease of use, and budget. The Synology DS223 stands out as the top overall pick thanks to its reliability and seamless software, while the Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T offers a compelling budget-friendly option. For those needing a more robust setup, the Synology DS925+ provides expanded capacity and faster performance, but at a higher price. The main tradeoffs involve capacity versus cost, simplicity versus advanced features, and scalability. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the best fit for your small business.
Key Takeaways
- The top NAS options balance ease of setup with reliable data protection features essential for small businesses.
- Performance differences mainly matter for businesses with high data transfer needs or demanding backup routines.
- Scalability and expansion options are often overlooked but critical for growing businesses.
- Diskless models typically offer better value but require additional investment in drives and setup time.
- Ease of use and software ecosystem play a decisive role in reducing management overhead for small teams.
| Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T 2-Bay NAS |  | Best for Compact Media and Home Cloud Integration | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz quad-core | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Network: 2.5GbE port | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Desktop NAS with 64TB Support, AI Photo Tagging, Remote Access, 4GB RAM, 1GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for Beginners and Personal Use with Large Storage Needs | Capacity Support: 64TB | Number of Bays: 2 | Processor: High-performance processor (unspecified) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay NAS with Hard Drives Included |  | Best for Secure, Out-of-the-Box Data Backup with Cloud Integration | Storage Capacity: 4TB | Drive Bays: 2 | RAID Support: RAID 0, RAID 1 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 2-Bay NAS DS223 (Diskless) |  | Best for Data Centralization and Multi-Platform Sharing | Model: DS223 | Number of Bays: 2 | Storage Type: Diskless | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Desktop All-Round NAS with Intel N100, 8GB DDR5, 2.5GbE, 2x M.2 NVMe, 4K HDMI, Diskless |  | Best Overall for Small Business Backup | Processor: Intel N100 Quad-core | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Network: 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation 210 4TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Included |  | Best Value for Small Office Backup | Capacity: 4TB | Number of Bays: 1 | HDD Included: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buffalo LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Included | | Best Compact NAS for Basic Backup | Capacity: 2TB | Number of Bays: 1 | HDD Included: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best for Advanced Data Management and Scalability | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Sequential Read/Write Throughput: 522/565 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) |  | Best for Secure Private Cloud Storage and Easy Access | Model: DS223j | Number of Bays: 2 | Diskless: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T 2-Bay NAS
This model stands out for its fast 2.5GbE connectivity and support for 4K transcoding, making it ideal for small businesses that need quick data access and media streaming. Unlike the Synology DS223, which emphasizes data protection and multi-platform sharing, the AS1202T offers superior network speeds and multimedia capabilities, but its limited 1GB RAM can hinder performance with multiple users. It’s perfect for small offices or home setups where media and quick backups are priorities, but less suitable for heavy multi-user environments or enterprise workloads. The tool-free installation and user-friendly interface simplify setup, yet the basic hardware may not keep pace with larger or more demanding business needs.
Pros:- Fast 2.5GbE network port for quick data transfer
- Supports 4K video transcoding for media applications
- Easy tool-free installation for quick setup
Cons:- Limited 1GB RAM may slow performance with multiple simultaneous users
- No included drives, requiring additional purchase
- Basic hardware specs may not support heavy enterprise tasks
Best for: Small business owners needing fast media streaming and simple cloud backup solutions
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring extensive multi-user performance or heavy data processing, due to limited RAM and basic specs
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz quad-core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Network:2.5GbE port
- Number of Bays:2
- USB Ports:3 USB 3.0
- Features:Supports 4K transcoding, Wake on LAN/WAN, internal display, tool-free installation
Bottom line: This NAS is well-suited for small businesses prioritizing media and quick backups in a compact form, but less so for multi-user enterprise environments.
UGREEN NAS DH2300 2-Bay Desktop NAS with 64TB Support, AI Photo Tagging, Remote Access, 4GB RAM, 1GbE, 4K HDMI, Diskless
This pick makes the most sense for users new to NAS setups or those focused on media organization, thanks to its 4GB RAM and AI-powered photo tagging. Compared to the Synology DS223, which offers more advanced file sharing and backup options, the UGREEN emphasizes ease of use and multimedia features, including 4K HDMI output. Its support for up to 64TB of storage provides ample capacity for personal collections, but it sacrifices advanced enterprise features like Docker support or virtual machine hosting. The external Wi-Fi option via USB adds flexibility, though performance may be limited for heavy multi-device use. It’s a straightforward choice for individuals or small teams focused on media and simple backups.
Pros:- Supports up to 64TB of storage capacity
- 4GB RAM enhances performance for media and backups
- AI photo tagging and duplicate removal streamline media organization
Cons:- Lacks support for Docker or virtual machines
- Wi-Fi connectivity requires external USB adapter, limiting performance
- Limited to basic NAS functions, not suitable for heavy enterprise workloads
Best for: Small business owners or individuals seeking a large-capacity, easy-to-use NAS with media features
Not ideal for: Businesses needing advanced virtual hosting or heavy multi-user performance, due to limited enterprise features
- Capacity Support:64TB
- Number of Bays:2
- Processor:High-performance processor (unspecified)
- RAM:4GB LPDDR4X
- Network Interface:1GbE
- Video Output:4K HDMI
- Security Features:RAID modes, two-factor authentication, encrypted transfers
Bottom line: This NAS offers a user-friendly experience with large storage and media features, ideal for small businesses or personal use, but not for intensive server tasks.
BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay NAS with Hard Drives Included
This NAS is a straightforward choice for small offices seeking reliable, ready-to-go storage with included drives and easy setup. It surpasses the Buffalo LinkStation 210 in performance and features, supporting RAID configurations for data redundancy, and offers compatibility with Windows and MacOS. While its 4TB capacity is modest compared to larger enterprise options, it provides fast performance—up to seven times faster than older models—making daily backups and file sharing smooth. The inclusion of hard drives and a 2-year warranty simplifies initial deployment, but its limited capacity in RAID 1 mode and network dependency mean it’s best suited for smaller teams or backup-focused applications rather than heavy multi-user environments.
Pros:- Includes hard drives, simplifying setup
- Supports RAID for data redundancy
- Fast performance for backups and sharing
Cons:- Limited to 2TB usable in RAID 1 mode
- Requires network connection for remote access
- Setup may be complex for non-technical users
Best for: Small businesses needing an easy-to-deploy, secure backup solution with included drives
Not ideal for: Growing businesses with larger storage needs or requiring extensive multi-user access, due to limited capacity and network reliance
- Storage Capacity:4TB
- Drive Bays:2
- RAID Support:RAID 0, RAID 1
- Compatibility:Windows, MacOS
- Performance:Up to 7x faster than LS 200
- Encryption:SSL
Bottom line: Ideal for small teams needing reliable, out-of-the-box backup with minimal fuss, but not suited for expanding storage needs.
Synology 2-Bay NAS DS223 (Diskless)
This device makes sense for small businesses seeking flexible data management, especially with its ease of sharing and backup options. Compared with the BUFFALO LinkStation 720, which emphasizes straightforward setup and redundancy, the Synology DS223 offers a more adaptable platform for users comfortable with setting up drives, thanks to its diskless design. It provides built-in surveillance tools and supports diverse backup strategies, making it a versatile choice for data protection. The learning curve can be steeper for beginners, and the need to purchase drives separately adds to initial costs. This NAS is best for those who want a customizable, multi-platform data hub without the bulk or unnecessary features of larger Synology models.
Pros:- Flexible sharing across multiple platforms
- Supports various backup options
- Built-in surveillance tools for security
Cons:- Requires separate hard drives to operate
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- No included drives, adding initial setup cost
Best for: Small business users who want flexible, multi-platform data sharing and security features
Not ideal for: Users seeking a ready-to-use, all-in-one system with included drives or minimal setup effort
- Model:DS223
- Number of Bays:2
- Storage Type:Diskless
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: This NAS suits small businesses needing a customizable, multi-platform data management system with added security features, assuming willingness to handle setup.
UGREEN NAS DXP2800 2-Bay Desktop All-Round NAS with Intel N100, 8GB DDR5, 2.5GbE, 2x M.2 NVMe, 4K HDMI, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP2800 stands out for its powerful performance thanks to the Intel N100 quad-core processor and 8GB DDR5 RAM, making it suitable for small teams needing quick access and multi-device support. Compared with the Synology DS925+’s higher speeds and broader features, the DXP2800 offers a more straightforward setup with an emphasis on ease of use, but it sacrifices expandability with only 2 drive bays. The inclusion of 2.5GbE and 4K HDMI support enhances media and backup workflows, though the need to purchase drives separately adds to costs. This pick is ideal for small businesses that want reliable, fast backups and media management without the complexity of enterprise systems, but it’s less suited for those needing extensive scalability or advanced virtualization. Overall, it’s a balanced choice for small teams prioritizing performance and simplicity over expandability.Pros:- High performance with Intel N100 and DDR5 RAM
- Large storage capacity up to 76TB with multiple M.2 NVMe slots
- Fast 2.5GbE network transfer speeds
- Supports 4K HDMI for media use
Cons:- Hard drives are sold separately, increasing overall cost
- Requires technical knowledge for setup and configuration
- Limited to 2 bays, less future-proof for growth
Best for: Small businesses seeking high-performance, easy-to-manage backup and media sharing
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring extensive storage expansion or multi-tiered data solutions, due to limited bays
- Processor:Intel N100 Quad-core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Network:2.5GbE
- Storage Slots:2x M.2 NVMe
- Max Storage Capacity:76TB
- Connectivity:4K HDMI
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: This NAS is best suited for small businesses prioritizing speed and media integration in a compact, easy-to-manage system.
BUFFALO LinkStation 210 4TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Included
The BUFFALO LinkStation 210 4TB offers a simple, plug-and-play solution with included hard drives, making it appealing for small offices or home businesses seeking reliable centralized storage. Compared to the 2TB Buffalo LinkStation 210, the 4TB model provides more room for backups and file sharing, but both lack scalability beyond their single bay. Its straightforward setup and US-based support make it attractive for non-technical users, though it’s limited by a single drive bay and basic features, which may not meet the needs of growing businesses. This device makes the most sense for those wanting an affordable, no-fuss backup solution with included hardware, but it’s not ideal for those planning future expansion or advanced features.Pros:- Includes hard drive for quick setup
- Easy to configure and use with secure file sharing
- Supports multiple OS including Windows and macOS
- US-based support available
Cons:- Limited to a single drive bay, restricting scalability
- Basic feature set compared to higher-end NAS devices
- No hardware redundancy or RAID options
Best for: Small offices or home businesses needing immediate, reliable storage with minimal setup
Not ideal for: Organizations planning to scale storage or requiring RAID redundancy, due to single bay design
- Capacity:4TB
- Number of Bays:1
- HDD Included:Yes
- Connectivity:Network (Ethernet)
- Supported OS:Windows, macOS
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: This NAS is a cost-effective, simple choice for small businesses that need reliable storage without future expansion plans.
Buffalo LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Included
The Buffalo LinkStation 210 2TB provides a compact, easy-to-use solution for small-scale backup needs, making it suitable for very small offices or personal use. When compared to the 4TB version, the 2TB model offers less storage but remains similarly easy to set up and operate, ideal for basic file sharing and backups. Its single bay limits future expansion, and it offers fewer advanced features, but its straightforward design and included hard drive make it a hassle-free option for those with minimal storage needs. This device works well for users who want a simple, reliable storage point without complexity, but it’s less suited for businesses expecting growth or needing advanced data management features.Pros:- Easy to set up with included hard drive
- Secure file sharing with access controls
- Compact and lightweight design
- Includes US-based support
Cons:- Limited to 1 drive bay, restricting expansion
- Basic feature set without advanced options
- Less suitable for larger or growing data needs
Best for: Small teams or individuals with minimal storage needs looking for a simple backup device
Not ideal for: Growing businesses needing scalable or feature-rich NAS solutions, due to limited capacity and bays
- Capacity:2TB
- Number of Bays:1
- HDD Included:Yes
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS
- Encryption:SSL
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: This NAS is a straightforward, budget-friendly choice for minimal storage and simple backup tasks.
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ excels for small businesses that need robust data management, virtualization support, and high-speed transfer rates. Its four bays and dual 2.5GbE ports offer significant scalability and network redundancy, making it ideal for growing teams that might eventually need more storage or advanced features like surveillance or virtual machines. Compared with the UGREEN DXP2800, it’s more complex to set up, but it offers far more flexibility and long-term growth potential. The diskless design allows tailored storage capacity, but that means additional costs for drives. This NAS is best suited for businesses with technical expertise or those planning for future expansion, though it’s overkill for very basic backup needs.Pros:- High transfer speeds and dual 2.5GbE ports
- Supports virtualization, surveillance, and advanced file management
- Long 3-year warranty
- Flexible 4-bay design for future storage expansion
Cons:- Requires purchasing drives separately, increasing initial investment
- More complex setup process than simpler NAS models
- Potentially overpowered for basic backup only
Best for: Small businesses with technical staff needing scalable, multi-purpose storage solutions
Not ideal for: Small teams or less tech-savvy users seeking a simple, turnkey backup device, due to setup complexity
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Sequential Read/Write Throughput:522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3-year limited hardware
- Diskless:Yes
Bottom line: This NAS is ideal for small businesses that need scalable, high-performance storage with advanced management features.
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j (Diskless)
The Synology DS223j stands out for its strong focus on security and multi-platform access, making it ideal for small businesses prioritizing data privacy. Compared with the UGREEN NAS DXP2800, which offers more raw performance with its Intel N100 chip and 8GB RAM, the DS223j emphasizes user-friendly file sharing and comprehensive backup options over speed. Its diskless design means you must purchase compatible drives separately, which adds an extra step but allows customization of storage capacity. Setup can be straightforward for those with some technical familiarity, but beginners might find it intimidating. The DS223j’s focus on privacy and multi-device sharing makes it perfect for businesses needing secure, centralized storage, though its reliance on external drives could be a drawback for those seeking an all-in-one solution.
Pros:- Strong focus on data security and private cloud access
- Easy to share and sync files across platforms from anywhere
- Flexible storage capacity with compatible drives
Cons:- Requires purchasing and installing hard drives separately
- Setup may be complex for users with limited technical experience
- Limited hardware performance compared to more advanced NAS models
Best for: Small business owners who need secure, private cloud storage with easy remote access and sharing capabilities.
Not ideal for: Businesses looking for a plug-and-play solution with all-in-one storage included or for those who prefer high-performance hardware for intensive tasks.
- Model:DS223j
- Number of Bays:2
- Diskless:Yes
- Warranty:2 years
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet
- Supported Drives:SATA HDD/SSD
- Compatible OS:Synology DiskStation Manager
- Remote Access:Yes
- Backup Options:Comprehensive, including cloud sync
Bottom line: This NAS is best suited for small businesses needing secure, easily accessible storage with customizable capacity, but less ideal for users wanting a turnkey solution or high-speed performance.
How We Picked
Each NAS was evaluated based on performance benchmarks, ease of setup, software features, build quality, and overall value. We prioritized models that offer reliable data protection, user-friendly interfaces, and scalability options suitable for small businesses. Cost-effectiveness was also a key factor, especially for those on tighter budgets. Our ranking highlights products that strike the best balance among these criteria, ensuring that small business owners can find a dependable solution without overpaying or sacrificing essential features.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Nas For Small Business Backup
When selecting the best NAS for small business backup, several factors deserve careful consideration. The right choice depends on your current needs and future growth plans. Beyond specs, understanding how each feature impacts your daily operations helps you avoid common pitfalls like overspending on capacity or choosing overly complex systems that slow down your team.Capacity and Scalability
Assess your current storage needs and consider future growth. Many small businesses start with 2-bay NAS devices but may need options to expand as data accumulates. Models with drive bays that support expansion or additional drives offer longer-term value, preventing costly migrations later. Avoid overspending on capacity you don’t need immediately, but also don’t underestimate future growth, which can lead to frequent upgrades.
Ease of Use and Management
Intuitive setup and management software reduce the learning curve and day-to-day headaches. Systems like Synology are renowned for user-friendly interfaces, which is critical for small teams with limited IT support. Overly complex systems might offer advanced features but can become a burden if setup or maintenance becomes overly technical. Look for systems with clear documentation and accessible management tools.
Performance and Data Transfer Speed
For businesses handling large files or multiple backups simultaneously, performance is vital. Network speeds, CPU power, and RAM influence data transfer rates and backup times. A NAS with multi-gigabit Ethernet or SSD caching can noticeably improve performance, especially during peak operations. Consider your typical data workload when prioritizing speed versus cost.
Data Protection and Backup Features
Robust backup options, RAID support, and snapshot capabilities are essential for safeguarding data. Cheap or diskless models often require additional investment in drives and configurations, which can complicate setup. Prioritize models that include or support comprehensive backup solutions suitable for your data sensitivity and recovery requirements.
Cost and Total Cost of Ownership
Initial purchase price is just part of the cost; consider ongoing expenses like drives, power, and maintenance. Diskless units may seem cheaper upfront but can become more expensive once drives are added. Budget for future upgrades and ensure the system offers a good return on investment by reducing downtime and safeguarding critical data efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a diskless NAS or one with drives included?
Choosing between a diskless NAS and one with drives included depends on your budget and how much control you want over your storage. Diskless models generally offer better value, allowing you to select drives tailored to your needs, such as higher-performance SSDs or larger capacity HDDs. However, they require extra setup time and technical knowledge. Pre-installed models are simpler to get started with but often come at a premium, and their drives may limit upgrade flexibility.
How important is multi-gigabit Ethernet support for small business backup?
Multi-gigabit Ethernet support can significantly reduce backup and data transfer times, especially if your business handles large files regularly. If your network infrastructure supports it, investing in a NAS with 2.5GbE or 10GbE can improve overall efficiency. For smaller data loads or less frequent backups, standard gigabit Ethernet may suffice, but future-proofing your network can save headaches down the line.
Is a RAID setup necessary for small business backups?
RAID configurations provide redundancy, protecting against drive failure and ensuring data availability. For small businesses relying heavily on their data, RAID is a wise choice despite some added complexity. However, RAID is not a substitute for backups; you should still maintain off-site or cloud copies. Systems with flexible RAID options give you the ability to balance performance and redundancy as your needs evolve.
What’s the real difference between 2-bay and 4-bay NAS devices?
Two-bay NAS devices are generally more compact, easier to set up, and more affordable, making them suitable for small businesses with moderate storage needs. Four-bay models offer increased capacity and better redundancy options, which can be vital for growing companies or those with larger data volumes. The tradeoff is typically higher cost and slightly more complex management, but they provide more room to scale securely.
Should I prioritize software features or hardware specs?
Both matter, but for small business backup, reliable software features like automated backups, snapshots, and easy management often outweigh raw hardware specs. A system with robust software can compensate for modest hardware, simplifying data recovery and management. However, if your business handles very large files or requires high-speed transfers, hardware specs like CPU power and network interfaces become more critical.
