Comparing the Synology NAS, DS1517+ for 2017 and the DS916+ NAS from last year
What can both NAS server’s do? 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 NAS devices can do. So, whether you decide upon the newer and more expensive DS1517+ NAS or save a little money and go for the slightly smaller DS916+ NAS, you will definitely be able to:
- Host a Virtualisation or Container Platform – setup and run multiple VMs, supporting multiple Operating systems and enhanced by the Docker app, Container Station
- Full access to your media from mobile devices, PC, Laptop and console devices
- Serve as a cross platform service – bridging connections and transfers of files between Mac and Windows systems over the network
- Heavily support background data checks 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
- Multiple camera licences for hosting several IP Cameras in your home, business or office environment
- 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 DS1517+ Synology NAS release?
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VALUE Although this might not be the cheapest 5-Bay NAS in the market, the Synology DS1517+ NAS is the go-to NAS server for Mac users, those who want a streamlined and user-friendly UI and most importantly of all, the people who want a NAS that sits there doing the job it needs and don;t want to tinker. An excellent NAS server and some fantastic product output buy the joint best NAS providers of 2017. FEATURES The remarkably powerful Quad-Core CPU that the DS1517+ arrives with is an excellent multi-tasking and single task NAS. Those who are familiar with the Synology software and the Synology range will take one look at this unit and what it can do and fall in love! Also, arriving with either 2GB or 8GB or DDR3 memory (which can be expanded further to 16GB!!!) whatever you did in your previous desktop Synology NAS, the DS1517+ and DS1817+ will do it better! PERFORMANCE With this being the highest powered Synology Desktop NAS yet (if you overlook the DS3617xs) then it won;t come as a shock that the DS1517+ and DS1817+ are two of the best performing NAS ever released from Synology. Whatever you need your NAS to do, however you need it to perform, this unit can do it. And don’t forget that to expand your storage, you can always use two of the DX517 Synology NAS Expansion devices to add an extra 10 HDD to your storage capacity. This can be independent storage, one GIANT RAID combining all potential 15 HDD bays, or used as a synchronised backup from the NAS to the expansion. A terrific and full featured NAS server DESIGN If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! That is the motto of Synology by the look of their chassiS design this last few years and in the DS1517+ NAS from Synology, this is kept in check! A great combination of metal and plastic where it count, this unit much like it’s predecessor (the DS1515+) factors like noise and heat are kept low and this enclosure definitely ticks the boxes for all the Mac users out there – plus looks really nice on your desk! Not exactly vital, but in an age of modern design, a welcome addition |
VALUE If you are of a mind to upgrade more, to tinker with the hardware, to play with your device in the settings, direct access and generally are of a slightly more technical mind, then the Synology DS1517+ might seen a little too expensive for what you get. For you, I recommend the QNAP TVS-671, TVS-673 or the TVS-682. All 6-Bays and all in a similar price range to the DS1517+ NAS FEATURES Synology NAS still lack functions like HDMI, LCD, DAS connectivity, Thunderbolt, remote controls and more. A little bit of a pity that we are still yet to see more action from Synology on this, as QNAP really dominate on these areas PERFORMANCE Because the DS1517+ NAS is a closed system (no direct access), all performance and application use is limited to network only. Of course, given the improved encryption system ‘AES-NI’ in use and all login and access permissions and credentials are checked constantly and the BTRFS file system for background checks and snapshots, this is only a partial disadvantage DESIGN features like a lack of LCD, remote control and one touch copy button will put some users off – if you need these features, then then QNAP TVS-473 may well be the NAS server for you
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What are the Pros and Cons of the DS916+ NAS released in 2016?
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VALUE Easily the best Synology Desktop NAS in the market today and we cannot recommend it highly enough FEATURES Compatibile with Mac systems, Windows PCs, Android, Linux and more. As well as having a host of mobile apps available to access, control and modify on the fly your data in everything upto 4K in transcoding PERFORMANCE One of the best small business and HOME NAS devices in the market today – unless you have high end on-the-fly graphical editing in mind, the DS916+ is the best NAS for all tasks DESIGN Great NAS Chassis and a blend of metal and plastic with superb ventilation to keep those HDD cool. Meet the ambitious DS916+ designed to satisfy professional NAS users’ needs. With a powerful quad-core CPU, AES-NI hardware encryption engine, scalability up to nine drives, and 2GB or 8GB memory options, DS916+ brings better support for multitasking, and increases business dynamics. |
VALUE May seem a bit uniform for some and the front panel seems a bit pointless FEATURES Network Access only. No connecting a Keyboard, Mouse and monitor and using as a stand alone PC or Stand alone Surveillance station PERFORMANCE For real future proofing, it is recommended you go for the 8GB DDR3 Model here DESIGN A fraction more expensive than a likewise Unit from QNAP
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