The ZimaBlade Single Board NAS Server Review

ZimaBlade Review – Cheap, Easy, Powerful? WHAT?

Over the last few years, we have seen a growing middle ground in private server ownership. For a long time, if users wanted to make the switch away from third-party cloud and towards owning their very own NAS server, they would opt to either buy a turnkey solution from brands such as Synology and QNAP, or they would decide to go full DIY and build a NAS completely from the ground up. However, in recent years, we’ve observed an emerging middle ground in the form of convenient pre-built NAS server solutions that arrive OS-free, ready for your own chosen third-party open-source software (such as UnRAID, TrueNAS, pfSense, OpenWRT, and more). This space has become quite exciting as server technology has become more efficient and affordable. Fast forward to the subject of today’s review: the ZimaBlade single board hackable server. IceWhale, the company behind it, premiered their first hackable single board, the Zimaboard, via crowdfunding last year with tremendous success, making a follow-up expected. The new product started its crowdfunding earlier in 2023 and is now in production, with early backers set to receive their units in January 2024. Fortunately, I was among the few to receive an early review sample. Today, I will dive deep into the ZimaBlade to determine if this unique alternative to the NAS server status quo deserves your data.

Hardware Highlights of the ZimaBlade Single Board Server:

• Price: $64*-144** (Check HERE)
• Two Versions: ZimaBlade 3760* / 7700**
• Design: Fanless, Single PCB+Heatsink
• CPUs:
  • Intel Celeron N3350* (2-Core, 2.4GHz Max)
  • Intel Celeron N3450 **(4-Core, 2.2GHz Max)
• Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 500,(Frequency Up to 750 MHz)
• Supports Intel® Quick Sync Video
• Memory: 1x SODIMM RAM Slot (up to 16GB Option)
• Storage: 32GB MMC Internal
• Ports & Connections:
  • 2x SATA
  • 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gb/s – A / C)
  • 1x 1GbE Network
  • 1x Mini-DisplayPort 1.2 (4K 60FPS)
• 12V/3A USB Type-C Power (Optional Adapater Option)
• Expansion: 1x PCIe 2.0 x4
• Operation: Fanless / Silent
• 107 x 80 x 23mm in Size and just 175grams
• Software: Includes CasaOS (Ready out of the box), Compatibility: Can support practically any* server/router OS including Ubuntu, Windows, OpenWrt, pfSense, Android/Chromium and More

ZimaBlade Review – Quick Conclusion

I’m thoroughly impressed with this system. It challenges competitors from turnkey NAS, DIY NAS, and major cloud services with its competitive price point, comparable to a year’s subscription to cloud services. As a 2x NAS system, it offers great value, and DIY enthusiasts might find it hard to build a similar system at this price. While you can assemble a more powerful system with extra costs, it might compromise user-friendliness, power efficiency, and a compact design. The Zimmer blade stands out by offering a budget-friendly, capable, and user-friendly experience. Even though it’s a new entrant from crowdfunding, it checks all boxes. Its flexible OS is a boon for NAS beginners. Some design concerns exist, like the gen 2 Intel architecture and limited USB and ethernet ports. Yet, considering its price, these are minor. It’s a game-changer in the NAS domain, and I highly recommend it.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 10/10

VALUE - 10/10

9.0

PROS

👍🏻Very affordable
👍🏻Highly customizable
👍🏻Tons of purchase configurations to choose from
👍🏻Better value than a Raspberry Pi, and more powerful (Intel Celeron CPU)
👍🏻Silent operation
👍🏻Case design is 10/10
👍🏻Casa OS is very user-friendly
👍🏻USB Power is more efficient than a unique PSU (less waste)
👍🏻Upgradable memory up to 16GB
👍🏻FULL $144 kit option includes 2 HDD Cage
👍🏻Massive PCIe upgrade options
👍🏻USB and full SATA storage support
👍🏻Low 6/10 TDP on the CPU
👍🏻32GB OS eMMC Storage
👍🏻Numerous 3rd party OS supported (UnRAID, OpenWRT, OMV, pfsense, etc.)

CONS

👎🏻CPU is Gen2 Architecture
👎🏻No M.2 NVMe/SATA 6Gb/s Slot
👎🏻1GbE and only 1 port
👎🏻CasaOS pales in comparison to several other container focused NAS OS\', such as UnRAID, etc.

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ZimaBlade Review – Retail Packaging

Kudos to IceWhale; the retail packaging for this compact device leans heavily into the cyberpunk mod aesthetic, feeling industrial in design and presentation. It’s more steampunk than the garish designs of some competitors. While compact, the packaging fits the device perfectly.

What you get with the ZimaBlade varies depending on your crowdfunding tier since different tiers come with different extras. Regardless, the board and included cables come in a fantastic compact retail kit. This kit also contains a thank-you card from the original developer, expressing gratitude for supporting the project. While not the first to include such a gesture, it feels genuine and not merely a marketing tactic.

Depending on the tier you select, the accessories and retail kit your ZimaBlade comes with may vary. Remarkably, the entry-level tier priced at $64 provides a dual-core ZimaBlade, a USB-C thread cable, and SATA cable adapters. Memory must be purchased separately, and a Y-splitter cable is necessary for using more than one drive.

However, for $64, you get the essentials for your Intel Celeron dual-core 2-bay NAS server.

Opting for the top tier gets you the $144 ZimaBlade 7700 package. This includes the system, 16GB of memory, a USB-C power adapter, a Y-splitter SATA cable for connecting two drives, and a metal 3.5-inch SATA hard drive cage for storage. For just $144, you have a 2-bay Intel Celeron NAS, 16GB of memory, all the required cables, and PCIe upgrade options, offering substantial value for a NAS kit.

It’s refreshing to see a server like the ZimaBlade utilize USB-C power. While it likely won’t run solely on standard USB power, acquiring USB power adapters (even high-wattage ones) is easier and results in less waste compared to unique PSUs found in most other NAS devices. This advantage, previously seen in Raspberry Pi mini servers, makes the ZimaBlade even more compelling.

The provided SATA connector combines both SATA and a four-pin power connector. If you want to use both SATA ports, you’ll need a Y-splitter cable. Oddly, the baseline $64 ZimaBlade package includes only a single SATA and power cable instead of the split cable. A small price increase could have easily covered this minor addition, making it more user-friendly. Still, it’s a discreet and customizable option for adding more SATA storage.

The included hard drive cage is basic but well-crafted, offering space to mount the ZimaBlade and a cavity for a PCIe card. With rubber pads on the feet to dampen vibrations, it’s an upgrade over its predecessor, which was just the board. Overall, the ZimaBlade’s retail kit doesn’t disappoint. Both the lowest and highest buying options from the crowdfunding campaign are reasonably priced. Now, let’s discuss the design of the ZimaBlade itself.

ZimaBlade Review – Design

Earlier this year, I reviewed IceWhale’s first single-board server, the Zimaboard. I was impressed by its compact size. Now, the ZimaBlade is even more compact with a distinctive design, reminiscent of a 1980s cassette Walkman. This small case manages to include numerous ports, connections, and hardware.

The sides feature a removable U-shaped slot design, and the top boasts a thick transparent plastic panel. The base and rear, made of metal, dissipate heat from key components like the CPU, which connects to the backboard with thermal paste and silicone.

The rear panel acts as a 2 sided heatsink (connected to a narrower ridged panel), efficiently releasing heat. Further vents aid in heat management. This ingenious thermal design ensures silent operation. Mechanical hard drives might produce some noise, but the ZimaBlade itself is silent.

The transparent top panel showcases the main control board and the SODIMM upgrade slot. I’m surprised IceWhale hasn’t introduced alternative cases, as some users might appreciate custom decals. Still, the design, reminiscent of old-school cassette tapes, is pleasing.

Comparing the ZimaBlade and the earlier Zimaboard, it’s evident IceWhale has opted for a different aesthetic. The older model had a large heatsink for heat dispersion, giving it an industrial look, while the ZimaBlade is sleeker and more compact.

The newer model needs good airflow but is a testament to the company’s dedication to refining their design. In conclusion, I’m enamored with the design choices of the ZimaBlade. It’s convenient, efficient, and its compact design compared to its predecessor makes it ideal for a hardware desktop lab. Now, let’s explore its internal components.

Zimablade Review – Internal Hardware

When Ice Whale said this was a single-board microserver, they weren’t kidding. Once you remove the external plastic plates and top transparent panel, you are left with just a single board. It’s about the size of a credit card, and components are distributed on both sides of the PCB. The CPU is situated at the base of the system with the memory on top. The designers have achieved an incredibly efficient layout to maximize component distribution. Removing the top panel was easily done by unscrewing two screws and sliding out the black plastic surround panel.

As the system doesn’t utilize any active cooling fans, the placement of heat sinks and the distribution of components are paramount. The ports and connections around the outer edge are clearly separated from the main SODIMM slot.

Interestingly, the predecessor Zimmer board didn’t feature upgradable memory; instead, it came with memory pre-soldered to the controller board. This is common in cost-efficient systems. Not only does it result in savings, but it also provides a more predictable and stable system. However, with the newer generation Zimablade, there’s a shift to the more popular use of an upgradable SODIMM slot. The baseline 64 model doesn’t come with any memory, but both the $70 and $80 tiers include either 8GB or 16GB of memory that fits into this SODIMM slot, and the CPUs support up to a maximum of 16GB.

On the base of the PCB, there’s an Intel Celeron processor powering the system. The device’s scale will inevitably draw comparisons to the established Raspberry Pi, mini PCs, and server devices. One crucial distinction is the CPU profile. Raspberry Pi systems utilize ARM processors, known for power efficiency but with limitations in high-performance environments. In contrast, the Zimablade features an Intel x86 64-bit processor, offering more robust hardware capabilities. This CPU, located at the system’s base, relies heavily on heat dissipation provided by the metal top panel.

For those choosing the more affordable Zimablade, it comes with an Intel dual-core Gen 2 architecture Celeron processor. While there are hints online about the specific CPUs in each Zimablade model, the official website isn’t explicit. Further investigation will clarify the CPU architecture, but it’s known to be a Celeron dual-core N3350 with a max clock speed of 2.4 GHz. Compared to contemporary systems, this might seem a bit underwhelming. Still, given the Zimablade’s price point, it’s reasonable.

The pricier model, ranging from $80 to $104, boasts a N3450 quad-core Celeron processor with a clock speed of 2.2 GHz. This boost in cores will be advantageous for multi-user environments and those looking to experiment with diverse operating systems.

The system also comes with some flash memory for storing the OS and other services. However, its modest 32 GB should suffice for the scale of the current mass software; larger, more aggressive software platforms may find this limiting, leading to an immediate need for additional storage for further app installation. Regrettably, the system doesn’t offer any form of internal storage upgradability. While you can connect USB storage drives, SATA HDD/SSDs, and even PCI-E cards to add further SATA media or M.2 NVMe storage drives, the system lacks any upgradable internal storage option. It would have been nice to see an M.2 NVMe or even an M.2 SATA slot, allowing for additional storage to be added to the base model, similar to how one can upgrade memory via the SODIMM slot. Additionally, an SD card slot would have been a welcome inclusion. However, given the compact size, there’s limited space to work with.

I might sound repetitive, but it’s genuinely challenging to criticize the Zimablade regarding its hardware. Given its price point and unique position in the market as a single-board, hackable server with few competitors, what you’re getting is impressive. This is an Intel-powered, 16 GB memory server with an open operating system that could easily fit in your pocket and runs off USB (with the appropriate adapter).

While the hardware inside the Zimablade isn’t cutting-edge, it surpasses what other architectures and brands offer at this scale and price. Let’s discuss the ports and connections.

Zimablade Review – Ports and Connections

The connectivity of the Zimablade is quite impressive. The ports are situated on three sides of the device, catering to a variety of needs.

Borrowed from the previous Zimmer board release are two SATA connections on the exterior. Coupled with an additional four-pin power connection, this board can link to standard internal SATA hard drives and SSDs. Notably, even the base model comes with a single SATA connector, while higher tiers offer more.

The system provides two USB ports: a general-purpose USB 3.2 Gen 1 and a USB Type-C mainly for power. Due to the device’s power requirements, users will most likely have only one USB port for peripherals.

Visual output is via a mini display port. Adapters may be necessary for standard monitors and TVs. Higher Zimablade tiers do include these adapters.

A highlight is the external PCIe upgrade slot. It offers versatility, allowing users to enhance the system with various cards. There are limitations, especially with power-hungry cards or those requiring more bandwidth. Yet, it’s a distinguishing feature that sets the Zimablade apart from its competitors.

To sum it up, the Zimablade offers a remarkable range of scalability options, especially when considering its size and cost.

The potential for upgrades and enhancements, both in hardware and software, makes it a valuable asset for tech enthusiasts and developers.

ZimaBlade Review – Casa OS Software

The landscape of personal cloud solutions is rife with options, each offering unique selling points. The Zimablade, entering this highly competitive space, packages its offering with CasaOS – a solution poised to redefine the relationship between hardware and software in the NAS ecosystem. But how does CasaOS fare, especially when set against stalwarts like Synology DSM, TrueNAS, and UnRAID? Let’s explore.

Key Features and Strengths:

• Digital Privacy at the Forefront: CasaOS, developed by the visionary team at IceWhale Technology, centers its design philosophy around safeguarding family data. Offering tools for encrypted communications, centralized multimedia storage, and smart home device management, CasaOS prioritizes digital safety in an age where data breaches are commonplace.

• Unrivalled Compatibility: One of CasaOS’s crowning attributes is its adaptability. The system integrates effortlessly across a multitude of hardware platforms, from x86 PCs to Raspberry Pi. With support for leading OS platforms, CasaOS promises a smooth experience, regardless of the tech ecosystem in which it operates.

• Expansive Application Universe: With over 20 pre-installed docker-based apps and 50+ community-verified ones, CasaOS provides users with a veritable buffet of digital tools. Whether you’re into home entertainment, require VPN solutions, or are seeking quality streaming apps, CasaOS has you covered.

• Holistic Data Management: CasaOS consolidates data storage, eliminating the need to juggle between platforms like Dropbox or Google Drive. With a promise of rapid 10x syncing speed and no associated data traffic or subscription fees, CasaOS champions efficient data management.

Points for Reflection:

• Comparative Lightness: While CasaOS supports a plethora of container applications, when benchmarked against established players like Synology DSM, TrueNAS, and UnRAID, it does come across as lite. Features such as ZFS support and 1st party mobile applications are conspicuous by their absence, leading to a heavier reliance on 3rd party container/docker apps.

• Gradual Transition to More Established Platforms: CasaOS, while robust in its offering, might be seen by many as a nascent stage in their NAS journey. As users grow accustomed to the intricacies of NAS operations, there’s a likelihood they may transition to a more comprehensive NAS OS. Platforms like UnRAID, with similar ease in container deployment but richer in 1st party features, often appear more attractive in the long run.

• Value Proposition: The inclusion of CasaOS with the Zimablade, especially at its introductory price range of $64-144 during its crowdfunding launch, is commendable. The synergy of hardware and software at this price point offers exceptional value for beginners. However, seasoned NAS enthusiasts might crave the depth found in mature OS offerings in the market. That said, it does allow for both local easy GUI access in a web browser AND terminal level  access easily:

The Zimablade, paired with CasaOS, makes a compelling entry into the personal cloud solution domain. CasaOS, with its focus on user-centric design, data privacy, and a wide array of applications, sets a solid foundation. However, as with many products in their infancy, there’s potential room for evolution and growth. Users looking for a lite, budget-friendly introduction to the world of NAS will find Zimablade and CasaOS an excellent starting point. Yet, as their needs expand and mature, migration to more established platforms might be on the horizon. Still, better to have a great ‘out-the-box’ OS included for day 1, than not!

Also, the Casa OS will immediately boot on day 1, so no need to muck around with Bios with a visual output+Keyboard+mouse on day 1, as it will immediately appear on the network on your first boot in a few mins and be accessible via your web browser. All in all, especially at this price point, incredibly impressive, if a little lite. If you want to test out the CasaOS software before you purchase a system to run it on (Zimablade or otherwise), you can use the link below to test the software out in your web browser:

Click Below to access Casa OS Software Demo in your web browser

ZimaBlade Review – Verdict and Conclusion

If it hasn’t already become painfully obvious, I absolutely love this little system. Whichever way you look at it, this device is completely undermining a lot of competition from both turnkey NAS, DIY NAS, and established cloud hosting via third-party services like Google and Dropbox. This arrives at a price point that is comparable to a year of subscription cloud services at just a few hundred gigabytes. It’s also a 2x NAS system with inclusive operating system and app support that arrives at a third or even a quarter of the price of most established turnkey NAS. And for those looking to build their own modest low-powered NAS from scratch, I genuinely think you would struggle to assemble similar levels of hardware that we see here for the same price.

Sure, you could definitely assemble a system for a few hundred dollars extra that is more powerful, more expandable, more customizable, but in doing that, you would end up with higher power consumption, a larger physical footprint, multiple warranties to navigate, and ultimately end up with a far less user-friendly experience than what is on offer here. Most of the time, when it comes to technology, you will tend to find that it’s almost impossible to find a system that is low price, high capability, and user-friendly. Generally, you’ll have to sacrifice one of those. However, in the case of the Zimmer blade, although we are still talking about a system that is just in the process of leaving crowdfunding, it somehow manages to earn a big green tick in all three of those areas. Additionally, the fact that you are not locked into a single operating system and the inclusive OS, though light, is hugely adaptable, also means that the early NAS enthusiast and beginner in the world of private server ownership can use this as a learning tool that will still deliver value many years from now. Small design choices about the system I’m less keen on would include the gen 2 architecture of that Intel processor leading to slight bottlenecks in some areas, the realistically usable USB port being 5 gigabits per second—having just one of them is somewhat inconvenient—and the one-gigabit ethernet network connection out of the box is another bottleneck. However, when you put all these complaints into perspective regarding the device’s price point, they simply become irrelevant. Hands down, this is one of the most exciting NAS releases in both turnkey NAS and for DIY server builders I have ever reviewed, and I cannot recommend it enough.

IceWhale ZimaBlade PROS	IceWhale ZimaBlade CONS
Very affordable Highly customizable Tons of purchase configurations to choose from Better value than a Raspberry Pi, and more powerful (Intel Celeron CPU) Silent operation Case design is 10/10 Casa OS is very user-friendly USB Power is more efficient than a unique PSU (less waste) Upgradable memory up to 16GB FULL $144 kit option includes 2 HDD Cage Massive PCIe upgrade options USB and full SATA storage support Low 6/10 TDP on the CPU 32GB OS eMMC Storage Numerous 3rd party OS supported (UnRAID, OpenWRT, OMV, pfsense, etc.)	CPU is Gen2 Architecture No M.2 NVMe/SATA 6Gb/s Slot 1GbE and only 1 port CasaOS pales in comparison to several other container focused NAS OS’, such as UnRAID, etc.

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