Synology DS401+ Drive Review

Synology DS401+ Review: A Big Leap in Data Portability

Synology has once again redefined innovation with the launch of its latest device, the DS401+, a radical departure from traditional NAS design. Unlike anything in their existing lineup, the DS401+ is a compact, ultra-portable single-bay system that arrives with 8GB of pre-installed storage.

While its modest appearance might lead some to question its capabilities, this device is full of surprises and packed with what Synology describes as “next-level user-driven expandability.” Upgrades are a breeze, requiring nothing more than confidence, persistence, and maybe a little brute force.

Connectivity is as streamlined as it gets, with USB 2.0 ensuring compatibility with virtually every system released in the past 20 years.

Performance skeptics will be pleasantly surprised to learn that the DS401+ boasts transfer speeds of up to 8GB per second—a metric achieved under rigorous, real-world conditions involving trajectory and velocity.

While traditional benchmarks focus on read/write speeds, Synology’s new direction explores the physics of momentum as an alternative measurement of data mobility. One of the standout features of the DS401+ is its offsite backup functionality.

Designed for those constantly on the move, users can effortlessly transfer data, pop the DS401+ into a bag, and take their backup anywhere—whether that’s to work, the grocery store, or an accidental adventure sparked by a missing cat collar, missing your train and leaving your bag at home – can’t question it, that’s a pretty solid off-site backup!

While the DS401+ doesn’t support DSM, Synology’s usual operating system, it does come with pre-installed software of a different nature. Details remain scarce, but early reports suggest a mysterious blend of anti-ransomware tools, possibly paired with rudimentary antivirus protection.

Whether this is a security feature or just a cleverly disguised README file remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the DS401+ clearly takes a bold stance on cybersecurity—even if no one knows exactly what it’s doing.

File sharing has never been more intuitive. With the DS401+, users can now share files simply by passing the device to someone else. There’s no need for network mapping, no passwords to remember, and absolutely no waiting for uploads. This tactile approach to data transfer offers unmatched immediacy and person-to-person encryption powered by trust. For those concerned about future expansion, Synology has teased a “Forb” edition, rumored to support even more aggressive upgrade techniques.

And for power users who demand more from their tiny NAS, Synology has introduced the DS401+ Forb, a “four-bay” variant that somehow fits into an even smaller form factor than the original. Early hands-on impressions describe it as “smaller than the palm of your hand but twice as confident.” While there’s no visible evidence of four bays, Synology assures customers that the extra capacity is there if you’re willing to think small enough. Expansion remains as simple as ever—just apply additional USB drives using light percussion.

The launch date of the Synology DS401+—April 1st—is no coincidence. Known globally as April Fools’ Day, it’s a time when tech companies occasionally tease products that walk the line between absurdity and brilliance.

From its minimalist design to its unconventional “performance” metrics, every detail feels like a carefully crafted nudge and wink to the audience. It’s a playful reminder that innovation sometimes requires not just thinking outside the box—but joking about the box entirely.

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