Comparing the 2015 QNAP TS-253A and the 2017 TS-253B NAS
Before I get down to which of these units is better at what task, I think it is important to know the things that BOTH of these QNAP NAS devices can do. So, whether you decide upon the QNAP TS-253A-4G NAS or the QNAP TS-253B-4G, you will definitely be able to:
- Host a Virtualisation Platform – setup and run multiple VMs, supporting multiple Operating systems and enhanced by the Docker app, Container Station
- Create a standalone PC with the additional of a keyboard, mouse and monitor
- Both units arrive with a remote to maximize the media uses of that HDMI port
- Serve as a cross platform service – bridging connections and transfers of files between Mac and Windows systems over the network
- Heavily support RTRR and comprehensive snapshot technology meaning you will have an equal amount of backup options whichever you go for. As well as migration, connection and interaction with existing cloud services like dropbox, Google Drive ElephantDrive
- Create a comprehensive Surveillance solutions, supporting multiple IP cameras and even arriving with some licences included
- Access exactly the same NAS OS that is updated regularly and has a huge app store to really customise your setup to make it your own
What are the Pros and Cons of the QNAP TS-253A NAS released in 2015?
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VALUE Currently one of the best NAS units available to the home and SMB markets to date. Easily in our Top 3 NAS of 2016 and once you install a couple of WD Red drives (or ask us too with our free NAS installation service), you will have 3-5 years of NAS support at your finger tips. FEATURES Where to start on the NAS features and services of this device? A quad Core 4K transcoding CPU with AES-NI high efficiency encryption, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, dual HDMI ports, USB 3.0 ports throughout, 2 gigabit LAN ports to double encryption speeds and even a remote control included. This coupled with 4 Surveillance CCTV IP Camera Licences for free and dual OS in the Linux VM options and all the advantages of QNAP’s QTS NAS OS – this has become the NAS to beat! PERFORMANCE Again, one of the best performing 2 bay NAS devices I have had my hands on yet and only rivalled by the Synology DS716+ and the previous unit to this, the QNAP TS-253 Pro. Able to perform almost ALL popular NAS tasks in the market today from a Plex Media Server NAS all the way through to multiple VMs (Virtual Machines) installed by an ISO image and even more benefits once you explore the Linux Dual operating system advantages. Use this as a Home NAS, a Business NAS, a Surveillance NAS or a Media NAS – whatever you need, this can do it! DESIGN One of the best NAS devices I have had the chance to test and share this year. The Metal throughout design keeps things very cool, with numerous areas of ventilation and a large rear fan to keep tempratures and operating nice and cool. Also the fan is considerably less noisy than you would expect and once up and running will be easily ignored. |
VALUE Those in a strict Mac environment may find the Synology DS716+II a better choice as it syncs much better in a Mac environment – though the hardware is lesser, it is a more Apple friendly interface. FEATURES May be a little daunting to those with zero/next to no IT experience. Still user friendly but perhaps a pinch more of a learning curve than a Synology unit like the Synology DS216+ NAS or the QNAP TS-251+. PERFORMANCE The only failing really is the fact the CPU is of a lower frequency than it’s predecessor, the TS-253 PRO – and this may put some people off. However aside from Plex Media at 1080p and if you want to multitask beyond 4 or 5 taks at a time, you will be better off with the TS-253A with its double RAM, 4K Supports and myriad of connection options. DESIGN May be less appealing to the Mac / Apple crown who seem to like their kit to be very uniform and will want to seek safety in the Synology DS716+II. |
What are the Pros and Cons of the QNAP TS-253B NAS released in 2017?
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VALUE For the pure funtionality and ability, you will struggle to do better than this NAS. It is designed to be the answer to your NAS needs and delivers in almost everyway. It brings years of technical evolution and innovation to a climax and produces a fantastic little NAS solution in the TS-253B.. FEATURES easily one of the most fully featured NAS servers in this price range available to date! With many of the key hardware and software applications of the QNAP TVS-473, TS-451A, TS-453A and more – but all available in this single NAS. Dual HDMI, DUAL LAN, PCIe Slot, SD Card reader, Quick Connect DAS, one touch USB 3.0 Copy, Hot Swapping, new and improved remote control and more. This is fast becoming the home and SMB NAS to beat in 2017! PERFORMANCE Supporting everything from Plex, Kodi over HDMI in Linux Station, VMs, standalone surveillance, all RAID levels, DLNA support, apple time machine, Mac and Windows full RTRRR, QVR Pro Beta and more – you will struggle to find something this NAS cannot do!! DESIGN Very unique chassis design from QNAP in the newly release TS-253B NAS for 2017. It is both compact and remarkably packed with features. The removable front panel acts as both protection for the HDD trays and a preventative measure for dust. Also the addition of an LCD panel, SD Card Reader, Direct Attached Connection and 1 Touch copy button mean this small little NAS has an incredible number of features.ct and once up and running will be easily ignored. |
VALUE Misses the mark just a little without arriving with TB3 connectivity and some users may be put off by the plastic chassis.. FEATURES Those looking for something for enterprise use will perhaps be better looking for something in the TVS-1282 Series in an i5 or i7. This NAS is about being able to do many, many things very well, rather than 1 or 2 things incredibly! PERFORMANCE We just wish QNAP released the Thunderbolt 3 Card to buy seperately. A two Bay Thunderbolt 3 NAS would be incredible! Such a shame…but you never know! DESIGN Shame it is almost 80% plastic externally. Yes that reduces noise and makes it quite, but some may be put off by this.
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