QNAP vs UniFi NAS: Home and Business NAS Comparison
UPDATE – The UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is now available and can be found HERE
In the realm of Network Attached Storage (NAS), QNAP has long been a dominant player, known for its extensive range of high-performance NAS solutions and rich software ecosystem. On the other hand, UniFi, a well-known brand for networking solutions under Ubiquiti, is a newcomer in the NAS space. With the recent launch of the UniFi UNAS Pro, UniFi is entering the highly competitive NAS market that has been dominated by companies like QNAP for decades. This article takes a close look at the NAS solutions offered by QNAP and UniFi, comparing their hardware, software, security, expandability, and overall value. The aim is to help users decide which NAS system best fits their needs—whether for home use, small business, or enterprise-level data management.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Price
When it comes to price, UniFi enters the market with aggressive pricing for its UNAS Pro NAS, while QNAP offers a wide range of models at various price points. The UniFi UNAS Pro is priced at $499, making it a competitive 7-bay rackmount NAS with built-in 10GbE networking. This is a very appealing price point, especially for small businesses or home offices looking to add a NAS to their network. It’s designed to provide a simple, integrated solution for users already invested in the UniFi ecosystem.
QNAP, on the other hand, has a vast portfolio of NAS solutions, ranging from entry-level home models to enterprise-grade systems. The QNAP TS-464, which is similarly priced at around $499, offers a 4-bay desktop NAS with a more powerful Intel Celeron quad-core processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. This model supports PCIe upgrades for additional 10GbE connectivity, providing flexibility in network performance as user needs grow.
QNAP’s rackmount models, such as the TS-832PXU, are more expensive, starting around $800, offering an ARM-based 8-bay NAS with dual 10GbE ports and more enterprise features.
While QNAP’s range offers more flexibility and higher-end options, UniFi’s UNAS Pro delivers a great entry-level NAS with robust networking features at a lower price point. For users who need a simple NAS solution integrated into their existing UniFi network, the UNAS Pro presents a very competitive option.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Hardware / Range / Value for Money
QNAP has established itself as a leader in NAS hardware, offering a wide variety of devices that cater to home users, SMBs, and enterprise environments. Their hardware is known for its flexibility and upgradeability, with options for PCIe expansion, SSD caching, and higher-performance processors. UniFi’s UNAS Pro, however, is positioned as an affordable, 7-bay rackmount NAS.
It comes with an ARM Cortex-A57 processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and 10GbE networking, making it a solid choice for users who need simple storage and fast network access but don’t require extensive hardware expandability. Unfortunately, the RAM is non-upgradable, and there are no PCIe slots for future hardware expansion.
QNAP excels in hardware variety and expandability. The TS-464, for example, comes with an Intel Celeron quad-core processor, 4GB of RAM (expandable to 16GB), and a PCIe slot for adding features like 10GbE, NVMe SSDs, or additional storage controllers. Their rackmount systems, like the TS-832PXU, provide even more bays and include features like redundant power supplies, dual 10GbE ports, and scalable storage. Below is a comparison of key hardware features between the UniFi UNAS Pro and similar QNAP models:
| Feature | UniFi UNAS Pro
$499 NAS |
QNAP TS-464
$550-599 NAS |
QNAP TS-832PXU
SIMILAR HARDWARE NAS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $499 | $800 |
| Bays | 7 SATA | 4 SATA | 8 SATA |
| Processor | ARM Cortex-A57 | Intel Celeron J4125 | ARM Cortex-A72 |
| Memory | 8GB DDR4 (Non-upgradable) | 4GB DDR4 (Expandable) | 4GB DDR4 (Expandable) |
| Networking | 1x 10GbE, 1x 1GbE | 2x 2.5GbE | 2x 10GbE, 2x 1GbE |
| PCIe Expansion | No | Yes | Yes |
| Redundant Power Supply | No | No | Yes |
While UniFi provides a solid and affordable 7-bay NAS with built-in 10GbE, QNAP offers more flexibility with hardware expansion and a broader range of options. For users who need scalable performance, QNAP’s offerings are better suited to handle growing data needs.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Software Presentation
The software user experience is a critical factor when comparing NAS systems. UniFi’s UNAS OS is simple and streamlined, focusing on tight integration with the broader UniFi ecosystem. It borrows much of its design from UniFi’s networking interface, offering users a text-heavy, analytical dashboard ideal for those familiar with UniFi’s network products.
QNAP’s QTS (and its ZFS-based variant, QuTS hero) provides a more graphical and feature-rich interface, similar to Synology’s DSM. QTS presents users with a desktop-like environment, with drag-and-drop functionality, customizable icons, and an app-driven design. The interface is user-friendly and highly customizable, making it easy for both novice users and IT professionals to navigate.
UniFi’s software is more minimalist, sticking to core NAS functions with an emphasis on system monitoring and performance analytics. While it works well for network administrators who prefer UniFi’s style, it lacks the richness of QNAP’s QTS, which includes a wide range of built-in applications and customization options.
| Feature | UniFi UNAS OS | QNAP QTS |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface Style | Text-based, data-centric | Graphical, desktop-like |
| Customization | Limited | Extensive |
| Third-Party App Store | No | Yes |
| Snapshot Interface | Simplified but functional | Advanced, easy-to-use |
| Multimedia Management | Basic file sharing | Plex, Video Station, Photo Station |
QNAP’s QTS is the better option for users looking for a feature-rich, customizable software experience, while UniFi’s UNAS OS provides simplicity and ease of use for those already embedded in the UniFi ecosystem.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Security and Access
Both QNAP and UniFi offer strong security features, but their approaches differ based on their respective ecosystems.
QNAP QTS includes comprehensive security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA), SSL certificates, built-in firewall configuration, and advanced ransomware protection. QNAP also supports a variety of third-party security tools and includes IP blocking, VPN integration, and security event monitoring, making it a robust choice for businesses with stringent security needs.
UniFi’s security features are more network-centric, borrowing heavily from the UniFi ecosystem. The UNAS Pro integrates with UniFi’s enterprise-grade networking tools, providing features like IP tracking, network monitoring, and the ability to monitor devices across the entire UniFi infrastructure. However, it is more reliant on UniFi’s own tools and lacks the flexibility of QNAP’s system-level security options.
For businesses already using UniFi networking equipment, the seamless integration of security features across devices may be a major advantage. But QNAP’s more comprehensive NAS-specific security features give it the edge in environments that prioritize data protection at the device level.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Software Features
QNAP’s QTS is known for its extensive feature set, providing a wide array of applications for file management, backups, virtualization, and multimedia. QNAP’s built-in app store includes hundreds of apps, including popular third-party solutions like Plex for media streaming, Docker for containerized applications, and Virtualization Station for running virtual machines.
QNAP also excels in providing enterprise features like iSCSI management, snapshot support, hybrid cloud integration, and advanced RAID configurations. Their backup solutions, including Hybrid Backup Sync and Hyper Data Protector, are highly regarded for multi-platform backup support, ensuring data can be securely stored across different locations and devices.
In contrast, UniFi’s UNAS OS focuses on core NAS functions with tight integration into the UniFi ecosystem. While it provides essential file storage, backup scheduling, and snapshot capabilities, it lacks support for more advanced features like Docker or virtual machines.
The UNAS OS doesn’t have a dedicated app store, meaning users are limited to the built-in functions, which may not satisfy power users or businesses looking for extensive features. Whereas QNAP has had a number of years to fully expand their software portfolio.
Key Examples of QNAP’s Advanced Software Features:
- Plex: Media server integration for streaming movies, music, and photos to multiple devices.
- Docker: Support for containerized applications, allowing users to run isolated apps and services.
- Virtualization Station: Enables the creation and management of virtual machines on the NAS.
- QVR Pro / QVR Elite: Full-featured NVR solution for video monitoring and security.
To give you some more perspective (and somewhat damningly), her is the full list of modern NAS appliances and uses that you might consider the defacto full list of services that NAS solutions can/do provide in 2024/2025, and how QNAP and UniFi UNAS compare and contrast:
| Software / Service | QNAP NAS (QTS)
|
UniFi UNAS Pro
|
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | QTS 5.x, QuTS Hero (ZFS-based OS) | UniFi OS (UNAS-specific OS layer) |
| User Interface | Customizable with advanced dashboard options | Simplified interface, single-pane dashboard, focused on network metrics |
| Mobile Apps | Qfile, Qmanager, Qvideo, Qmusic, Qphoto, and more | UniFi Mobile App (Drive management, Snapshots, Backups) |
| Virtualization | Virtualization Station (Supports Windows, Linux, and QTS) | No virtualization support |
| Container Support | Container Station (Supports Docker and LXC) | No Docker or container support |
| Surveillance | QVR Pro (8 free camera licenses, additional paid licenses) | No support for UniFi Protect (at launch) |
| Multimedia Streaming | Plex, QNAP Photos, Video Station, Music Station | No multimedia apps (no Plex or streaming apps support) |
| RAID Support | RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, RAID50, RAID60, Basic, JBOD | RAID 1, 5, 10 (Native – with RAID 6 coming soon after launch) |
| Snapshot Support | Yes (QTS with EXT4 and QuTS Hero with ZFS) | Yes (Snapshots with scheduling and backup options) |
| Cloud Backup | Hybrid Backup Sync (Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.) | Google Drive (Limited cloud backup options) |
| Local Backup Solutions | Hybrid Backup Sync, QNAP HBS 3, Snapshot Replica | Local NAS backups supported (NAS to NAS) |
| File Synchronization | Qsync Central (Supports syncing with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS) | SMB, basic file synchronization with mobile app |
| Backup for PCs | NetBak Replicator (For Windows PCs) | Basic backup for Windows, no advanced backup suite |
| Backup for macOS | Time Machine Support | Time Machine support (via SMB) |
| External Backup | USB, eSATA, Thunderbolt Backup (with compatible models) | No external backup support |
| Cloud Integration | HybridMount (Supports mounting cloud services for file sharing) | Google Drive cloud sync only |
| Security Features | 2FA, firewall, SSL certificates, QuFirewall, QuWAN (SD-WAN), VPN | 2FA, SSL certificates, integration with UniFi Identity for SSO |
| Encryption | AES 256-bit full volume and folder-based encryption | Full-volume and folder encryption |
| Multimedia Apps | QNAP Photos, Video Station, Music Station, Plex | No multimedia apps available |
| Third-Party App Store | QTS App Center | No third-party app store |
| Mobile Backup | Qsync (For mobile devices) | Basic mobile backup via UniFi Drive |
| Cloud Sync | Hybrid Backup Sync, Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive | Google Drive only |
| Collaboration Tools | QNAP Notes Station, QmailAgent, and Qcontactz | No collaboration tools |
| Virtualization Backup | Hyper Data Protector (VMware, Hyper-V) | No virtualization backup |
| AI-Powered Apps | QuMagie (AI-powered photo management), Qsirch (Search engine) | No AI-powered apps |
| High Availability (HA) | QNAP High Availability (for redundancy) | No high availability features |
| NAS as VPN Server | Yes (QVPN, supports PPTP, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, WireGuard) | Yes (VPN integration with UniFi Gateway and Identity Enterprise) |
| App Virtualization | Docker, Linux Station (Ubuntu desktop in a container) | No virtualization or Docker support |
| Remote Access | myQNAPcloud (secure remote access without complex configuration) | UniFi cloud access (requires UI.com account) |
| Cloud Applications | QNAP CloudLink | No cloud applications beyond Google Drive sync |
| Video Editing | QuMagie AI-based tools, Plex | No video editing or AI tools |
| Remote Replication | RTRR (Real-time remote replication), Snapshot Replica | NAS-to-NAS backup and remote replication supported |
| Multi-Version Backups | HBS 3 (Hybrid Backup Sync, supports multi-versioned backups) | Yes (multi-versioned backups via Snapshots) |
| Email Server | QmailAgent | No email server functionality |
| Web Server | QTS Web Server (Supports hosting multiple websites) | No web server support |
| Music Streaming | Music Station, Plex | No music streaming or audio apps |
| Drive Health Monitoring | QNAP Drive Health Management (HDD and SSD wear monitoring) | SMART drive monitoring |
| Antivirus | McAfee Antivirus, ClamAV, third-party apps | No antivirus tools available |
| PCIe Expansion | Yes (supports 10GbE cards, M.2 SSD cache cards, graphics cards) | No PCIe expansion options |
| Thunderbolt Support | Yes (on certain models, ideal for media editing workflows) | No Thunderbolt support |
| SSD Caching | Yes (supports NVMe and SATA SSD caching on select models) | No SSD caching |
| ZFS File System | Yes (QuTS Hero models support ZFS, others use EXT4) | No ZFS support, EXT4 only |
| Ransomware Protection | Yes (dedicated security updates, Snapshot protection, QNAP Malware Remover) | Yes (Snapshots, network security via UniFi Gateway integration) |
| Browser-based access | Yes (Full access via web browser, highly customizable interface) | Yes (Single-pane UI via web browser) |
| NAS-to-NAS sync | Yes (via Hybrid Backup Sync and RTRR) | Yes (Basic NAS-to-NAS sync) |
| Plex Media Server | Yes (App available in QNAP App Center) | No Plex or multimedia server support |
| Built-in AI Tools | QuMagie (AI-powered photo management), Qsirch (AI-powered search) | No AI-powered tools |
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Hardware and Storage Expandability
When it comes to hardware and storage expandability, QNAP offers far more flexibility than UniFi. QNAP NAS systems often come with PCIe slots for expanding network connectivity or adding NVMe SSDs for caching. Models like the TS-464 and TS-832PXU support external expansion units, allowing users to add more drive bays as their storage needs grow.
UniFi’s UNAS Pro, on the other hand, is a more fixed solution. With 7 drive bays, it offers a solid starting point for SMBs or home users, but there is no option to add more storage beyond the built-in bays. The UNAS Pro also lacks PCIe slots, meaning users cannot upgrade to faster networking options or add SSD caching for improved performance.
For businesses that expect to scale their storage over time, QNAP’s expandability is a major advantage. Users can add external storage, upgrade to faster networking, or implement SSD caching to improve performance as their data needs increase.
Key Examples of QNAP’s Expandability:
- PCIe Slots: For adding 10GbE, 25GbE, 40GbE and 100GbE cards, SSD caching, or additional storage controllers that combine them BOTH!
- Expansion Units: Add-on units like the TL and TR Series allow users to easily increase storage capacity.
- NVMe SSD Support: Available on many models for high-speed caching, improving read and write speeds.
QNAP vs UniFi NAS – Verdict and Conclusion
Choosing between QNAP and UniFi NAS systems depends largely on your specific requirements and whether you’re looking for a versatile, expandable solution or a streamlined, network-centric device. QNAP is the go-to choice for users who need flexibility and advanced features, offering a comprehensive ecosystem of software solutions, virtualization, and scalability through PCIe slots, NVMe caching, and external storage expansion units. Its rich app store and high-end features like Docker, Virtualization Station, and support for complex storage configurations make it a strong contender for businesses, creative professionals, and power users who require robust performance and the ability to scale as their needs grow.
On the other hand, UniFi’s UNAS Pro is designed for simplicity and tight integration within the existing UniFi network infrastructure. With a focus on ease of use, basic NAS functions, and seamless deployment, it’s an appealing option for small businesses or home users already invested in the UniFi ecosystem. While it lacks the depth of features seen in QNAP, such as virtualization, multimedia management, and extensive software tools, UniFi’s UNAS Pro excels in providing network-level security, easy file management, and hassle-free backups, particularly for those who value remote access and centralized control over their network and NAS devices. Its built-in 10GbE networking capabilities also make it an affordable choice for users seeking faster connectivity without the need for additional expansions.
Ultimately, QNAP is ideal for users who prioritize feature-rich software, extensive hardware expandability, and the ability to run advanced applications. Its higher cost is justified by its robust capabilities and long-term flexibility. However, if your focus is on network integration, simplicity, and affordability, UniFi’s UNAS Pro offers a practical, budget-friendly solution that fits seamlessly into the broader UniFi environment. Both platforms offer distinct advantages, but the decision will come down to whether you need a powerful, scalable NAS or a simple, well-integrated storage system.
| Feature | QNAP Pros |
 UniFi Pros |
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Features | Extensive app store, Docker, VM support | Seamless integration with UniFi ecosystem | Higher cost for advanced models | Limited software features |
| Hardware Expandability | PCIe slots, NVMe caching, external expansion | Compact design, built-in 10GbE | Expandable hardware can drive up costs | No SSD caching or PCIe slots |
| Multimedia Management | Plex, Video Station, and Photo Station | Simple file sharing with Drive | Removal of Video Station in some models | Lacks dedicated multimedia management |
| Backup Solutions | Hybrid Backup Sync, Hyper Data Protector | Basic cloud backups via Google Drive | Some apps feel dated compared to competitors | Lacks advanced backup features |
| Virtualization Support | Docker and Virtualization Station | Tight integration with UniFi Controller | Not all models support high-end VM needs | No Docker or virtualization support |
| Security Features | Comprehensive NAS-specific security tools | Strong network-level security integration | Advanced security might be overkill for small users | Fewer security options for the NAS itself |
| Storage Management | QTS/QuTS hybrid RAID, multiple storage pools | Simple and easy-to-use snapshot management | Can be more complex to set up advanced storage features | Fixed hardware, no expandability beyond 7 bays |
| Price Flexibility | Broad range of NAS models at different prices | Affordable NAS with solid networking | Higher initial cost for advanced models | No pricing flexibility with limited hardware options |
| Complexity | Powerful features but requires a steeper learning curve | Simple, basic setup for UniFi ecosystem | Can be more complex for less experienced users | Basic compared to competitors |
| Software Maturity | Mature software with a wide range of features | Simple, early-stage OS but integrated well | Some apps feel outdated compared to competitors | Early-stage OS with fewer features |
| NAS-Specific Security | Advanced security features for robust data protection | Strong network-level security integration | Might be too complex for smaller setups | Fewer NAS-specific security tools |
| Setup Complexity | Can be complex to set up advanced features | Easy to set up, integrates well with UniFi devices | Requires technical expertise for full feature implementation | Very basic setup and customization options |
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