The UGREEN NAS – 1 Month Later (Should You Back it or Bail on it)

Should You Back or Bail on the UGREEN NASync Kickstarter Campaign?

With the UGREEN NAS campaign drawing close to an end, I think a lot of users are wondering where exactly the UGREEN NAS system is at? So, SO many reviews online (more on how/why later), but it’s been a month – has the system got better, got worse? Do the comments in those reviews still hold water? I wanted to assemble a few of the earliest and more balanced reviewers I could find who have shared their thoughts on the UGREEN NAS online and chat to them a month later to get their further input on it. I assembled panel, consisting of Me (Robbie from NASCompares) ,Lauri from Tech Notice, Frank from WunderTech and Logan from TwoGuyzTech — to come back to the system and brand, to help users decide whether they should get off the fence and back it, keep continuing to back this Kickstarter Campaign, or ‘get off’ the hype train now before its too late. These three YouTube reviewers and myself were among the first to receive and review the NASync series more than a month ago. Although their reviews are now live, UGREEN have continued to roll out updates to the system software, posted comments and updates on their crowdfunding campaign and outlined a lot of their proposed plans for these new systems. How much of that is going to be present in the finished product, how much is long-term roadmap stuff and how much is just hot air, is up for debate.

I wanted to talk with these three reviewers 1 month later to discuss where they are at with the UGREEN NAS device they were sent, have things improved and their thoughts on what this means for the NAS market. The Kickstarter has been notably successful, raising nearly 5 million pounds with more than 12,000 backers, necessitating a critical and informed analysis for those considering investment. As good as all that sounds, a lot of users who backed this project a month ago at launch might be having cold feet and want to know where the product is ‘at’ now, as updates by UGREEN during the fundraising period have been a little sparse (though responding to commentors has been better). Likewise, there are going to be more cautious users who are still on the fence and just want to know where the NASync series is at ‘at the 11th hour’ before they choose to back this. So, here is the results of that discussion. Thanks again to Lauri, Frank and Logan for their time. None of us have been paid/sponsored by UGREEN for this content or our reviews, these are our own opinions (the good and the bad!).

VIDEO LINK

In a Rush? Here is the TL:DR on The UGREEN NAS 1 Month On

Logan @TwoGuyzTech – Logan, who provided the inaugural review of the DXP 4800 Plus model, begins by praising UGREEN’s capabilities in hardware manufacturing. He describes the unit as robust, featuring an impressive CPU setup with a unique configuration that lends itself well to demanding tasks. Despite this, Logan highlights significant discrepancies between the marketed and actual features—particularly the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support, despite promotional materials suggesting otherwise. This, he argues, could mislead potential buyers about the product’s capabilities. Expanding on hardware limitations, Logan critiques the system’s scalability and expansion potential. Unlike competitors like Synology, which allow for easy scalability through expansion units, UGREEN’s system lacks similar functionalities. This could deter users whose storage needs might grow. Moreover, the absence of a PCIe slot for adding extra network interfaces is seen as a missed opportunity to enhance the system’s connectivity and performance capabilities, potentially limiting its appeal to more advanced users.

Frank @Wundertech – Frank shifts the focus to the software side of the NAS. He appreciates UGREEN’s strategic decision to concentrate on core functionalities, which simplifies the user interface and system maintenance. This approach, according to Frank, allows for a more stable foundational system that can be incrementally improved through updates. However, he identifies critical deficiencies in the backup functionalities that are vital for NAS systems. Initially, the device was limited to basic R-Sync and proprietary UGREEN device backups, which he found inadequate. During his testing, Frank encountered significant issues with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, a standard service for file sharing over a network. He discovered that upon attempting to access the NAS via SMB, he had unrestricted access to all directories without needing authentication—a severe security flaw. This issue indicates that the NAS system might not enforce proper user authentication, potentially exposing sensitive data. Despite updates attempting to address these concerns, the initial oversight raises questions about the rigor of UGREEN’s software testing and security protocols.

Lauri @TheTechNotice – Lauri offers a broader critique of the tech industry’s trend towards launching unpolished products with the intent to issue fixes post-launch. He expresses his frustration with the UGREEN system, which was marketed as ready-to-use yet exhibited numerous software glitches and usability issues upon receipt. Basic functionalities like software updates and file access were problematic, echoing a “release now, fix later” approach that he finds unacceptable. Lauri also faced SMB-related challenges, albeit different from Frank’s. His attempts to connect to the NAS via SMB were thwarted by the system’s inability to map network drives or properly save SMB settings, suggesting deeper issues with the software’s network handling capabilities. These experiences highlight inconsistencies in the product’s performance, further complicating the potential user’s decision-making process.

Marketing Strategies, Consumer Impact and Conclusion – The panel extensively discusses UGREEN’s marketing strategy, noting the company’s decision to flood the market with review units. This approach, while ensuring widespread visibility, may dilute the impact of individual reviews and obscure critical feedback due to the sheer volume of content available. Such a strategy can mask the product’s deficiencies, making it difficult for potential buyers to gauge the system’s reliability and performance accurately. Concluding the discussion, the panel agrees that while UGREEN’s NAS hardware is commendably robust and well-designed, the software side lags in maturity and reliability. They stress the importance for potential backers to understand the ongoing development of the software, especially given the critical SMB issues and general lack of software polish at launch.

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What did Lauri from TheTechNotice Think of the UGREEN NAS Range 1 Month on, How the Brand Approached the Market and His Experience with the Device?

Lauri from Tech Notice offers a unique perspective by critiquing not just the Ugreen NAS SYNC series but also the broader tech industry’s trend toward releasing products that are not fully vetted or complete. He starts his discussion by expressing a general dissatisfaction with the practice of launching products that are ostensibly unfinished, with the intention of resolving issues through later updates. This approach, he argues, places undue burden on consumers who expect a finished, fully functional product upon purchase. Lauri’s frustration is rooted in his personal experiences with the Ugreen NAS, which was marketed as ready-to-use but exhibited several software glitches and usability issues right out of the box. He details problems such as difficulties with software updates and accessing files—basic functionalities that were inconsistent or non-functional upon initial use. Such issues underscore a “release now, fix later” philosophy that he finds unacceptable, especially when consumers are not adequately forewarned about the state of the product.

Expanding on his critique, Lauri discusses his specific encounters with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol within the Ugreen system. Unlike Frank’s experience where access was too permissive, Lauri faced the opposite problem: an inability to effectively map network drives or adjust SMB settings. This inconsistency in SMB protocol handling between units further illustrates the lack of uniformity and reliability in Ugreen’s software development, complicating the user experience and diminishing the product’s reliability. Moreover, Lauri notes the NAS’s aesthetic and physical design, acknowledging that while the hardware appears polished and well-designed, the software does not match this quality. This disparity leads to a jarring contrast between the product’s promising physical presentation and its underwhelming functional performance. He points out that such discrepancies can lead to consumer distrust, as the sleek design sets expectations that the software functionality currently does not meet.

Throughout his review, Lauri also touches upon the responsiveness of the company to feedback. While he notes some improvements following user complaints and updates, he emphasizes that the fundamental approach of rushing products to market remains a significant concern. This strategy, prevalent in the tech industry, often results in products that require considerable post-market modification to reach the standard expected by consumers at launch. Lauri’s assessment provides a critical analysis of the Ugreen NAS SYNC series, particularly highlighting the problematic industry trend of premature product releases. His insights stress the importance of aligning product functionality with consumer expectations and market standards. Lauri’s critique serves as a call to action for tech companies to prioritize thorough testing and development before launch, ensuring that products meet all advertised functionalities and security standards to foster trust and satisfaction among users.

You Can find out more about Lauri HERE on his YouTube Channel

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How Did Frank from WunderTech Find his time with the UGREEN NAS System? Did He Encounter Problems and Would He Recommend it?

Frank from WunderTech begins his discussion by highlighting the strategic focus Ugreen has adopted in the development of their NAS SYNC series software. He appreciates the company’s deliberate choice to concentrate on refining core features instead of overloading the system with an extensive array of applications. This approach, he argues, facilitates a more stable base system that is easier for users to manage and for developers to troubleshoot and improve over time. It also aligns well with Ugreen’s apparent goal of making the NAS user-friendly and reliable in performing fundamental tasks. However, Frank identifies critical deficiencies in the system’s software, especially concerning its backup functionalities—an essential component for NAS systems. Initially, the device was constrained to basic R-Sync and backups to another proprietary Ugreen device. Such limitations significantly reduce the utility and appeal of the NAS for users who need versatile and robust backup solutions, which are critical for data integrity and disaster recovery. Frank notes that while subsequent software updates have introduced additional features like Docker, which broadens the system’s capabilities and appeal, the core issue with limited backup options remains a significant concern.

During his evaluation, Frank encountered severe issues with the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, a standard service in NAS systems for sharing files over networks. He was startled to find that upon attempting to access the NAS via SMB, he had unrestricted access to all directories without needing any form of user authentication. This discovery points to a severe security oversight, exposing sensitive data to potential unauthorized access. Such a fundamental flaw in access control is troubling and raises questions about the robustness of Ugreen’s software security measures. Frank further discusses the implications of these security issues, emphasizing the risk they pose not only to data confidentiality but also to the overall trust in Ugreen’s product. He suggests that while the hardware may be solid, the software’s inability to ensure basic security protocols could deter potential users who prioritize data security. This aspect is crucial for businesses and individual users who rely on NAS systems to store sensitive or critical information.

Moreover, Frank appreciates the incremental software updates that Ugreen has been rolling out, which demonstrate the company’s commitment to addressing feedback and improving the product. He highlights a particular update that resolved some of the earlier problems with the backup options, albeit still not to the extent that he considers fully satisfactory. The addition of features like Docker is viewed positively as it indicates Ugreen’s responsiveness to user needs and their willingness to expand the system’s functionality over time. Frank’s analysis provides a detailed critique of the Ugreen NAS SYNC series from a software perspective. He credits the company for its focused and strategic approach to software development but underscores significant areas of concern, particularly around security and backup functionalities. His insights suggest that while the hardware may be competitive, the software requires substantial improvements to meet industry standards and user expectations, particularly in areas crucial for data security and flexibility in data management.

You Can find out more about Frank HERE on his YouTube Channel

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What did Logan from TwoGuyzTech Think of the UGREEN NAS and where it is at 1 Month Later?

Logan from TwoGuyzTech, who provided the inaugural review of the DXP 4800 Plus model, begins his feedback by praising the robustness and overall hardware quality of Ugreen’s NAS system. He emphasizes the powerful CPU configuration, which features a single performance core along with four efficiency cores. This setup is particularly notable as it is uncommon in NAS systems within the same price bracket, offering potentially higher processing speeds and better handling of multiple tasks simultaneously. Despite the strong hardware foundation, Logan points out significant discrepancies between Ugreen’s marketing materials and the actual product features—specifically, the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support on half of the range, yet it was very prominent in the advertising (as was the 10GbE connectivity). This issue is not just a minor oversight; it’s a major deviation from what was advertised in terms of what some less knowledgable users would expect to receive, which could mislead potential buyers about the product’s capabilities. Logan stresses that such discrepancies could erode trust and satisfaction among consumers, who may feel they are not getting the full value as promised.

Further expanding on the product’s hardware, Logan notes that while the NAS performs well in its current state, the lack of scalability is a critical downside. He compares the Ugreen NAS SYNC series unfavorably with competitors like Synology, which offers easy scalability through additional expansion units. This limitation in Ugreen’s design means that users with increasing data storage needs would find the product less useful over time as their requirements grow. Logan also criticizes the absence of a PCIe slot, which would allow users to add additional network interfaces or other expansions. This feature is typically valued by advanced users who may need more customization or additional bandwidth for data-intensive tasks. The lack of such a feature further narrows the potential user base of the product, making it less appealing to a segment of the market that could benefit from greater connectivity options.

Addressing another aspect of hardware capability, Logan discusses the system’s input/output options. While he acknowledges that the NAS provides adequate I/O ports that should meet the needs of most users, he points out that the implementation of these ports could have been optimized better to enhance performance further. This feedback suggests a missed opportunity to maximize the hardware’s potential, which could have differentiated the Ugreen NAS SYNC series more clearly from its competitors. Logan’s detailed review provides a nuanced perspective on the Ugreen NAS SYNC series. While he commends the robust hardware and CPU design, he is critical of the marketing misrepresentations and the system’s limitations in scalability and expansion. His feedback underscores the importance of aligning marketing messages with actual product capabilities and designing with future scalability in mind to meet the evolving needs of users.

You Can find out more about Logan HERE on his YouTube Channel

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How UGREEN have Approached Marketing and Launching the NASync Series – Good or Bad?

The UGREEN NAS SYNC series marketing strategy reflects a robust and aggressive approach aimed at capturing market attention quickly and broadly. UGREEN’s decision to distribute a large number of review units (possibly in the hundreds in just a matter of weeks) prior to the completion of its Kickstarter campaign ensured that the product received widespread visibility across various media platforms. This saturation strategy is not uncommon in the tech industry but stands out due to the volume of units distributed and the breadth of coverage sought. From a marketing perspective, this approach can significantly amplify product awareness and generate buzz, creating a groundswell of potential customer interest and engagement early in the product lifecycle – choosing to spend their ‘marketing budget’ on sending products to small-niche reviewers and influences, rather than traditional online marketing and targeting bigger platforms. However, this aggressive marketing strategy also raises several concerns. One major issue discussed by the panel is the potential dilution of individual reviews’ impact. With so many reviews available, it becomes challenging for consumers to find consistent information and form a clear opinion about the product’s quality and reliability. This could inadvertently mask critical feedback that might be crucial for potential users making informed purchasing decisions. Additionally, by flooding the market with review units, UGREEN risks creating a perception that might not fully align with the user experience, particularly if the product under-delivers compared to what is seen in widespread positive reviews.

Moreover, there was always an inherent risk in UGREEN’s approach regarding consumer trust. If the product failed to meet the expectations set by its aggressive marketing, it could lead to customer dissatisfaction and damage the brand’s reputation in the long run if a LARGE number of reviewers had encountered persistent issues and that would have been heavility publized in turn. Therefore we have to give them some credit for the courage of their convictions to trust that their product would not ‘hang itself’ in the court of public opinion, when sent at such high volume in a comparatively unfinished state. This is especially pertinent given the software issues highlighted during the panel discussion. The strategy of relying heavily on post-launch updates to address fundamental flaws—flaws that are sometimes glossed over due to the sheer volume of initial positive reviews—could backfire, leading to frustrated users who feel misled by the reviews they consulted before purchasing. While UGREEN’s marketing strategy for the NAS SYNC series has virtues in terms of reach and visibility, it also poses significant risks that hinge on the company’s ability to deliver a product that truly matches the expectations set forth in its widespread marketing campaign. The approach requires a delicate balance between aggressive marketing and product quality assurance to maintain and grow consumer trust. This all brings into question once again, why a brand this large has opted for crowdfunding through Kickstarter – as it is fairly clear that this is a product that is either (in terms of hardware) finished and in production already, or at the very least is more than ready for ‘pre order’ if it had been on sale at your local eShop. The marketing and ‘user interest’ benefits of Kickstarter are useful, but the ‘indie’ and ‘small business’ focus of crowdfunding continues to diminish!

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Should You Back the UGREEN NAS Kickstarter? Or Should You Back Out Now?

Based on the detailed discussions from Frank, Lauri, Robbie, and Logan, the consensus on whether to recommend the UGREEN NAS SYNC series appears to be mixed and highly dependent on the specific needs and technical tolerance of potential users. Frank acknowledges the solid hardware and appreciates the strategic focus on core functionalities, which simplifies the user experience and system management. However, he is significantly concerned about the software’s maturity, particularly around security flaws with the SMB protocol and limited backup functionalities. Frank might recommend the NAS to tech-savvy users who are comfortable handling and potentially resolving these issues themselves, particularly those interested in leveraging the strong hardware by installing a third-party OS or those looking for a budget-friendly NAS solution that could improve over time with software updates.

Lauri, on the other hand, expresses strong reservations due to the “release now, fix later” philosophy he perceives in the tech industry, which he finds particularly evident in the UGREEN product. His experience with software glitches and poor user interface could deter him from recommending the NAS to users who expect a seamless, out-of-the-box experience. Lauri might only recommend this product to users who are enthusiasts or hobbyists who enjoy troubleshooting and have the patience to wait for potential fixes and updates that could eventually realize the hardware’s full potential.

Logan is broadly more positive about the system and, if the case of using a 3rd party OS (one you get over the installation hurdles) recommends the system. But still thinks that UGREEN could stand to be a little more clear in how the product is being presented, As a pre-built NAS product, especially at the crowdfunding price point, it’s hard to argue with. However, if/when the system crosses into traditional retail (with a loftier RRP), the virtues of the system’s value may well diminish and hopefully, UGREEN will maintain enthusiasm in the product range and software to roll in a phase 2, phase 3 and eventually an established product that can sand up next to the market leaders.

I (Robbie) acknowledge the potential of the hardware but am cautious about the software issues that have been repeatedly highlighted. I would certainly recommend the NAS to a niche market of users who value hardware specifications and cost-effectiveness over immediate, robust software functionality (the growing ‘middle’ between turnkey NAS and DiY Server Build Home-Labbers). These users would likely be those who are not dependent on advanced features or who have the technical ability to manage and mitigate the system’s current shortcomings. My recommendation would likely come with the caveat that buyers keep their expectations in check regarding the software and stay informed about ongoing updates and community feedback. Ultimately, while the UGREEN NAS SYNC series shows promise due to its robust hardware and competitive pricing, the recommendations from the panel are guarded and tailored to specific types of users. Potential buyers should weigh these considerations carefully against their personal or organizational needs and technical capabilities before making a decision.

Pros	Cons
Robust Hardware	Software Maturity
– The DXP 4800 Plus model features a powerful CPU setup with a single performance core and four efficiency cores, suitable for demanding tasks.	– The software has been criticized for being immature, with ongoing updates needed to address fundamental functionality and stability issues.
– Solid build quality and design that is recognized for its robustness, which adds to the reliability of the physical unit.	– Initial releases lacked comprehensive features, especially in backup functionalities which were limited to basic R-Sync and proprietary backups.
Scalability and Performance	Marketing vs Reality
– The hardware itself is recognized for high performance, which could be suitable for users with extensive data processing needs.	– Despite promotional materials suggesting advanced features like Thunderbolt 4 support, the actual product lacks these capabilities, leading to potential customer dissatisfaction and trust issues.
Focused Software Development	Security Concerns
– The strategy to concentrate on core functionalities rather than an abundance of features can lead to a more stable system that is easier to manage and troubleshoot.	– Significant security flaws were discovered, especially with the SMB protocol where authentication issues could expose sensitive data to unauthorized access.
Market Visibility	Expansion Limitations
– Extensive distribution of review units ensured widespread visibility and coverage, potentially increasing consumer awareness and interest.	– Compared to competitors like Synology, the UGREEN NAS system lacks easy scalability options such as expansion units, which limits the system’s long-term usability for growing storage needs.
Competitive Pricing	Inconsistent User Experience
– The UGREEN NAS offers a better value for its price point, especially when compared to the more expensive models from established brands like Synology and QNAP, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.	– Users, including tech reviewers, reported inconsistent experiences, particularly with software updates and SMB settings, which could deter potential users from adopting the system.

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