Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 NAS Case – Which Should You Buy?

Should You Buy the Jonsbo N5, N4, N3, or N2 for your NAS DiY Build?

Building your NAS has certainly become more accessible in recent years, mainly due to the availability of NAS-specific components that take the guesswork out of setting up a private cloud or network server from scratch. However, when it comes to finding a NAS enclosure or case, the options are far more limited than you might expect. Unlike traditional PC cases, NAS cases must focus more on storage capacity, efficient cooling for 24/7 use, and flexibility for NAS-optimized components like NAS-focused CPUs and motherboards. This is where Jonsbo steps in with a range of NAS-oriented enclosures that have become quite popular with DiY enthusiasts and home labbers. With the release of the new Jonsbo N5, it’s time to revisit the differences between Jonsbo’s popular NAS cases—N5, N4, N3, and N2—to see how they stack up for various use cases. Each case has distinct strengths and weaknesses, including varying capacities, cooling options, and motherboard compatibility, making the decision between them all the more nuanced. Let’s dive in and compare the Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 to help you choose the best one for your NAS build!

While all four Jonsbo NAS cases share a common goal—maximizing storage and cooling in compact and well-designed chassis—their specifications and features vary widely. From the relatively budget-friendly and compact N2 to the spacious and versatile N5, each case targets different types of users. The N5, for instance, offers the most expansion potential with its support for larger motherboards, GPU compatibility, and ample cooling options, while the N4 combines aesthetics and storage in a slightly smaller footprint with its hybrid steel and wood design. On the other hand, the N3 is geared more toward users who need high storage capacity without sacrificing airflow or CPU cooler size. Finally, the N2 stands out as the smallest and most efficient option, perfect for low-energy NAS builds where space is at a premium. With these differences in mind, let’s take a closer look at each model and figure out which one will best suit your needs.

Where to Buy Jonsbo NAS Cases? Jonsbo N5 12-Bay Case – $149-200 Aliexpress Jonsbo N4 6-Bay Case – $100-139 Aliexpress Jonsbo N3 8-Bay Case –  $139-150 Aliexpress Jonsbo N2 5/6-Bay Case –$99-120 Aliexpress

Here is my Jonsbo N2 vs N3 vs N4 Case Comparison from YouTube:

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Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 – TLDR

The Jonsbo N5, N4, N3, and N2 are all designed with specific use cases in mind, making them suitable for different kinds of NAS builds depending on your priorities. For instance, the Jonsbo N5 is ideal for more advanced users who need more versatility and room for components like larger motherboards (including E-ATX), graphics cards, and better cooling systems. It’s the most spacious of the bunch and is particularly suitable for users who anticipate expanding their NAS with more advanced hardware in the future. Meanwhile, the Jonsbo N4 offers a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Its unique steel-and-wood design makes it stand out visually, while it still provides decent storage and cooling capabilities, albeit not as extensive as the N5. The N4 supports both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, making it a versatile mid-range option that still caters to users looking for more compact builds without compromising on storage

Feature	Jonsbo N5	Jonsbo N3	Jonsbo N2	Jonsbo N4
Price (not inc. shipping)	$149-200 Aliexpress	$139-150 Aliexpress	$99-120 Aliexpress	$100-139 Aliexpress
Drive Bays	2x 2.5″ SSD, 12x 3.5″ HDD	1x 2.5″ SSD, 8x 3.5″ HDD	1x 2.5″ SSD, 5x 3.5″ HDD	2x 2.5″ SSD, 6x 3.5″ HDD
Motherboard Support	ITX, M-ATX, ATX, E-ATX	ITX	ITX	ITX, M-ATX
Cooling Support	Up to 6 fans (multiple fan slots)	2x 80mm (main compartment), 2x 100mm (HDD compartment)	1x 120mm fan (built-in)	1x 120mm fan (built-in), space for more fans
Max CPU Cooler Height	≤ 160mm	≤ 130mm	≤ 65mm	≤ 70mm
Max GPU Length	≤ 350mm	≤ 250mm	≤ 197mm (low profile)	≤ 230mm
Material	Aluminum Alloy + Steel	2.0mm Aluminum (external), 1mm Steel (internal)	2.0mm Aluminum (external), 1mm Steel (internal)	0.7mm Steel + Wood
Expansion Slots	7 PCIe	2 PCIe	1 PCIe (low profile)	4 PCIe
Cooling Focus	High (maximum fan support for cooling)	High (multiple fan slots for optimal airflow)	Moderate (built-in fan, passive cooling)	Moderate (built-in fan, optional additional cooling)
Best For	Large NAS builds, high cooling, and expandability	High storage and cooling needs, compact yet powerful NAS builds	Small, quiet, energy-efficient NAS builds	Stylish, moderate storage, and compact NAS builds
Use Case	Advanced users needing extensive expansion and cooling	Power users needing high performance and cooling	Home users with basic NAS needs	Aesthetic-focused users wanting decent performance

For those seeking even more compact and quiet solutions, the Jonsbo N3 and Jonsbo N2 come into play. The N3 is the largest of these smaller cases, supporting up to 8 3.5″ HDDs and offering the most airflow and cooling potential of the compact models, making it suitable for users who need higher storage capacity but don’t require the massive expansion options of the N5. The N2, by contrast, is the most space-efficient and energy-saving option, supporting ITX motherboards and up to five 3.5″ HDDs. It’s ideal for users looking to build a quiet, low-power NAS that can still handle moderate storage needs. In short, if you’re after a powerhouse build with future-proofing in mind, the N5 is your best bet, while the N4 offers a middle ground of functionality and design. The N3 is best for those who need more storage in a compact space, and the N2 is perfect for small, low-energy builds.

N2	N3	N4	N5

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Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 – Size and Physical Footprint

In terms of physical size and footprint, the Jonsbo N5 stands head and shoulders above the rest, literally and figuratively. The N5 measures 325mm to 350mm in length, depending on your GPU, which is significantly larger than the N4, N3, or N2. The extra space in the N5 allows for more advanced cooling options, greater storage, and compatibility with larger motherboards like ATX or even E-ATX. It’s built for users who want to pack as much hardware as possible into their NAS, whether it’s for video editing, gaming, or more intensive AI tasks. In contrast, the Jonsbo N4 measures a slightly more modest 286mm by 300mm by 228mm, offering enough space for ITX or M-ATX motherboards without being overly bulky. Its footprint strikes a nice balance for users who want versatility in motherboard selection and decent cooling without going too big.

Feature	Jonsbo N5	Jonsbo N4	Jonsbo N3	Jonsbo N2
Price (not inc. shipping)	$149-200 Aliexpress	$100-139 Aliexpress	$139-150 Aliexpress	$99-120 Aliexpress
Dimensions (W x D x H)	240mm x 473mm x 501mm	286mm x 300mm x 228mm	233mm x 262mm x 298mm	222.5mm x 222.5mm x 224mm
Material (External/Internal)	1.0mm Steel (External), 1.0mm Steel (Internal)	0.7mm Steel + Wood (External/Internal)	2.0mm Aluminum (External), 1.0mm Steel (Internal)	2.0mm Aluminum (External), 1.0mm Steel (Internal)
Weight	7.8kg	3.75kg	3.9kg	2.9kg
Drive Bays	2x 2.5″ SSD, 12x 3.5″ HDD or 4x 2.5″ SSD, 12x 3.5″ HDD	2x 2.5″ SSD, 6x 3.5″ HDD	1x 2.5″ SSD, 8x 3.5″ HDD	1x 2.5″ SSD, 5x 3.5″ HDD
Motherboard Support	ITX, M-ATX, ATX, E-ATX	ITX, M-ATX	ITX	ITX
Max GPU Length	325mm – 350mm	≤ 230mm	≤ 250mm	≤ 197mm (low profile)
Max CPU Cooler Height	≤ 160mm	≤ 70mm	≤ 130mm	≤ 65mm
Expansion Slots	7 PCIe slots	4 PCIe slots	2 PCIe slots	1 PCIe slot (low profile)
Cooling Options	Multiple fan configurations, large space for airflow	1x 120mm fan (built-in), space for more fans	2x 80mm (main compartment), 2x 100mm (HDD compartment)	1x 120mm fan (built-in)
Use Case	High-end NAS builds with extensive storage needs	Moderate NAS builds with aesthetic focus	Compact NAS with higher cooling needs	Small, quiet NAS for basic storage

Moving to the Jonsbo N3, its dimensions are 233mm by 262mm by 298mm, making it taller and slightly bulkier than the N2 but still compact compared to the N5 or N4. This size allows the N3 to house up to 8 HDDs and offer more room for cooling, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize storage but still want a manageable footprint. Finally, the Jonsbo N2 is the smallest of the group at 222.5mm by 222.5mm by 224mm, making it perfect for users with limited space or those who prefer a minimalist setup. The N2’s smaller footprint makes it an excellent option for more efficient builds, especially in environments where space is at a premium, such as small offices or media rooms. The size differences across these models clearly indicate that users can select a case based on their available space and expansion needs, from the massive N5 to the compact N2.

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Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 – Storage Capacity

When it comes to storage capacity, the Jonsbo NAS cases offer a wide range of options to cater to different needs. At the top end, the Jonsbo N5 supports up to 12 3.5″ HDDs or a mix of 2.5″ SSDs and HDDs, making it ideal for users with massive storage needs. Whether you’re setting up a media server, handling large databases, or using your NAS for backup and redundancy, the N5 can handle it all with ease. The Jonsbo N4, by comparison, supports up to 6 3.5″ HDDs and 2 SSDs, providing a solid middle-ground for users who need a decent amount of storage without going overboard. The N4’s storage configuration makes it suitable for home or small business NAS solutions that require a good mix of storage and performance but don’t need the expansive capabilities of the N5.

Feature	Jonsbo N5	Jonsbo N4	Jonsbo N3	Jonsbo N2
Price (not inc. shipping)	$149-200 Aliexpress	$100-139 Aliexpress	$139-150 Aliexpress	$99-120 Aliexpress
Max 3.5″ HDD Capacity	12x 3.5″ HDD	6x 3.5″ HDD	8x 3.5″ HDD	5x 3.5″ HDD
Max 2.5″ SSD Capacity	2x 2.5″ SSD (optional) or 4x 2.5″ SSD	2x 2.5″ SSD	1x 2.5″ SSD	1x 2.5″ SSD
HDD/SSD Combination Support	12x 3.5″ HDD + 2x 2.5″ SSD or 12x 3.5″ HDD + 4x 2.5″ SSD	6x 3.5″ HDD + 2x 2.5″ SSD	8x 3.5″ HDD + 1x 2.5″ SSD	5x 3.5″ HDD + 1x 2.5″ SSD
Total Storage Capacity	Up to 144TB (using 12TB HDDs)	Up to 72TB (using 12TB HDDs)	Up to 96TB (using 12TB HDDs)	Up to 60TB (using 12TB HDDs)
Hot-Swappable Bays	No	No	No	No
Drive Accessibility	Front-accessible	Front-accessible	Front-accessible	Front-accessible
Best Use Case	High-capacity NAS for large media libraries or data centers	Mid-range NAS for smaller setups	Compact NAS with good balance of storage and size	Small NAS for basic home storage or light usage

Meanwhile, the Jonsbo N3 ups the ante for compact builds, with support for up to 8 3.5″ HDDs and a single SSD, making it a powerhouse for users who need a lot of storage without sacrificing too much space. It’s perfect for DiY NAS builders who prioritize storage over aesthetics and want to fit as many drives as possible into a smaller case. On the other hand, the Jonsbo N2 is the most modest in terms of storage, supporting only 5 3.5″ HDDs and one SSD. However, its small size and efficient design make it an excellent choice for users who don’t need a ton of storage but still want a capable NAS system. Whether you’re looking for massive storage options or more compact, efficient builds, Jonsbo offers a range of cases to meet your specific storage requirements.

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Jonsbo N5 vs N4 vs N3 vs N2 – Motherboard, PCIe, and Cooler Support

When choosing the right Jonsbo NAS case, it’s essential to consider motherboard compatibility, PCIe expansion, and cooling support. The Jonsbo N5 offers the most flexibility in this regard, supporting ITX, ATX, and even E-ATX motherboards, making it ideal for users looking to expand their system with high-end CPUs, GPUs, and other components. The N5 is also designed with future-proofing in mind, featuring up to 12 drive bays, support for full-sized GPUs, and excellent cooling options. For users who plan on using their NAS for demanding tasks like AI processing, 3D rendering, or large-scale data management, the N5 is the clear winner in terms of versatility and expansion.

Feature	Jonsbo N5	Jonsbo N4	Jonsbo N3	Jonsbo N2
Price (not inc. shipping)	$149-200 Aliexpress	$100-139 Aliexpress	$139-150 Aliexpress	$99-120 Aliexpress
Motherboard Support	ITX / M-ATX / ATX / E-ATX	ITX / M-ATX	ITX	ITX
Max PCIe Expansion Slots	7	4	2	1 (Low profile)
Max CPU Cooler Height	160mm	70mm	130mm	65mm
Max GPU Length	325-350mm	230mm	250mm	197mm (Low profile)
PSU Support	ATX	SFX (≤ 125mm)	SFX (≤ 105mm)	SFX (≤ 150mm)
Cooling System	Optional cooling for HDD and main compartments	120mm fan x1 (included)	Optional 100mm fans x2 for HDD compartment, optional 80mm fans x2 for motherboard	12015mm fan x1 (included)
Best Cooling Performance	High-performance setups, large coolers, and long GPUs	Compact builds with moderate cooling	Balanced airflow for NAS and ITX systems	Small form factor with low-profile components

On the other hand, the Jonsbo N4 strikes a balance by supporting both ITX and M-ATX motherboards, offering more flexibility than the smaller N2 and N3 models. While it may not be as expansive as the N5, the N4 still offers room for additional PCIe cards and a reasonable selection of cooling options. The Jonsbo N3 is more limited in terms of motherboard support, only accommodating ITX motherboards, but it compensates with better airflow and the ability to house larger CPU coolers (up to 130mm). Lastly, the Jonsbo N2 is the most restrictive, supporting only ITX motherboards and featuring just a single PCIe slot. While this limits expansion, the N2 is still an excellent option for users focused on creating a low-power, compact NAS solution. Ultimately, your choice will depend on how much expansion and future-proofing you want in your NAS build. The N5 offers the most flexibility, while the N2 is best for simple, efficient setups.

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Jonsbo N5 vs N3 vs N2 vs N4 – Cooling and Ventilation

The cooling and ventilation strategies employed by the Jonsbo N5, N3, N2, and N4 cases are critical to their design, influencing not only their thermal management capabilities but also their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

The Jonsbo N5 stands out in this category with its large chassis and comprehensive ventilation system. It features side vents, rear exhausts, and top panel ventilation, ensuring ample airflow through its larger internal space. The N5 is designed to handle higher thermal loads, making it an ideal choice for users who plan to fully load the case with a significant number of drives or more powerful components. The cooling system supports multiple fans and larger components, making it highly customizable for cooling solutions. The larger chassis provides more room for air circulation, which, combined with optional fan configurations, offers effective temperature management even in demanding setups.

The Jonsbo N2 case, on the other hand, features ventilation on the side panels, a considerable vent panel on the top, and additional venting on the rear, facilitating multidirectional airflow that supports effective heat dissipation from internal components. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for maintaining optimal operating temperatures within the compact confines of the case, ensuring that even when fully loaded with storage drives, airflow remains unimpeded. The inclusion of a large top vent is noteworthy, as it capitalizes on the natural rise of hot air, thereby enhancing cooling efficiency without the need for excessive fan use, which can be beneficial for users seeking quieter operation.

The Jonsbo N3 extends the ventilation scheme to include vents on the sides, back, and notably, a ventilated front panel. This comprehensive approach to airflow management ensures that cool air can be drawn in from the front and expelled through the side and rear vents, creating a constant flow of air through the chassis. The ventilated front panel not only contributes to cooling efficiency but also adds to the case’s visual identity, merging functional design with aesthetic considerations. The ability to intake air from the front is particularly beneficial for systems with multiple drives, as it helps to mitigate heat buildup around the storage bays, maintaining optimal performance of the drives and other internal components.

The Jonsbo N4 adopts a similar ventilation strategy to the N2, with vents on the side panels, a large top vent, and rear ventilation, ensuring ample airflow through the case. However, it distinguishes itself with a wooden front panel that covers half of the front, adding a unique aesthetic touch while still allowing for air intake through the lower half of the front panel. This design choice strikes a balance between form and function, offering effective cooling by combining the benefits of the N2’s ventilation pattern with a stylistic differentiation. The wooden panel adds a touch of elegance and natural texture to the case, setting it apart visually from many other NAS and PC cases on the market, without compromising on the thermal management aspect.

Model	Cooling System	Ventilation Features	Strengths	Weaknesses
Jonsbo N5	Supports up to 4 fans (2x 120mm, 2x 140mm)	Vents on front, sides, and top; Rear fan mount; Larger airflow paths	Superior airflow for high-performance builds	Bulkier design, higher noise potential
Jonsbo N3	2x 100mm HDD compartment fans (optional)	Vents on sides, back, and ventilated front panel	Effective air intake from front, great for larger cooling setups	Can be noisy due to larger airflow, especially under heavy loads
Jonsbo N2	120mm built-in fan at the top	Vents on sides, top, and rear	Excellent for compact builds, passive air from top vent	Limited fan support, less effective with higher-end components
Jonsbo N4	120mm fan (built-in)	Vents on sides, rear, and partially ventilated wooden front panel	Elegant design with functional airflow, ideal for ITX and M-ATX	Front airflow somewhat restricted by wooden panel

Across all four models, the use of rubber pull handles on the drive bays instead of trays not only simplifies the installation and removal process but also reduces vibration transmission, contributing to quieter operation. This design choice reflects a thoughtful consideration of usability and noise reduction, further enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the flexibility in fan configurations across the models allows users to adjust their cooling setups based on their specific requirements, whether prioritizing silence or performance.

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Jonsbo N5 vs N3 vs N2 vs N4 – Conclusion and Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

The Jonsbo N5, N3, N2, and N4 NAS cases offer a wide range of features catering to various user needs, from compact and efficient storage solutions to highly customizable, performance-oriented systems.

The Jonsbo N5 stands out as the most expansive and capable of the lineup, offering superior airflow, larger internal space, and the ability to accommodate more storage drives and larger cooling systems. It’s ideal for users with advanced requirements who need ample space for high-performance builds with additional components like GPUs or large cooling systems. While the N5 is the bulkiest of the four, it compensates for this with top-tier functionality and versatility, making it a perfect choice for those looking to build a high-performance NAS or even a hybrid NAS-PC setup.

The Jonsbo N2 is the most compact of the lineup, making it ideal for users who prioritize space-saving designs without sacrificing essential storage capabilities. Its cooling is efficient for a small form factor, and it’s perfect for users looking for a quiet, minimalistic NAS solution that fits into tight spaces. The N2 is especially suitable for environments where noise levels and available space are major considerations, such as home offices or media rooms.

The Jonsbo N3 is a step up in terms of storage capacity and ventilation, offering a balance between a compact form and advanced storage capabilities. With its larger cooling options and full-size PCIe card support, the N3 is aimed at prosumers and power users who need more than just basic NAS functionality. It can house bigger components like CPUs with larger coolers, making it a versatile option for users needing both storage and performance, though this comes at the cost of increased size and noise.

The Jonsbo N4 offers the most flexibility when it comes to motherboard compatibility, supporting both ITX and M-ATX configurations. It combines the compactness of the N2 with additional features like enhanced cooling and PCIe expandability, all wrapped in a stylish design with a wooden front panel. This balance of form and function makes the N4 a great choice for users who want an aesthetically pleasing NAS system without compromising on performance. Its ability to support more PCIe cards than the N2 or N3 makes it particularly appealing for users looking to expand their system with additional components.

Across all models, Jonsbo’s commitment to quality, innovation, and user-centered design is evident. Whether you need a compact, quiet NAS system or a more powerful, versatile setup, the N5, N3, N2, and N4 provide thoughtfully crafted options to meet various needs. The N2 is perfect for users focused on space efficiency and quiet operation; the N3 caters to prosumers needing extra storage and cooling; the N4 balances form and function with a stylish twist; and the N5 is the go-to choice for users requiring maximum expandability and performance.

Model	Best For	Strengths	Weaknesses	Where to Buy
Jonsbo N5	High-Performance NAS/PC Hybrid	Large storage, high airflow, GPU and cooler support	Bulkier, more expensive	$149-200
Jonsbo N2	Low-Efficient NAS Deployment	Small footprint, quiet operation, low cost	Limited storage and PCIe expandability	$99-120
Jonsbo N3	Prosumer NAS with Full-Size PCIe Cards	Large storage capacity, high-performance cooling	Larger size, noisier than other models	$139-150
Jonsbo N4	Versatile NAS with Better Aesthetics	Aesthetic design, ITX and M-ATX compatibility	Only half-height PCIe cards supported	$100-139

 

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