Building a DIY NAS (Network Attached Storage) can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to manage your data, backups, and media streaming. However, it’s common to have questions about the process, compatibility, and hardware. This FAQ addresses the top questions people ask when planning a DIY NAS build, so you can make informed decisions […]
Recommended ITX DIY NAS CPU & Motherboard Combos In today’s market, NAS motherboards are no longer just basic storage solutions but have evolved to accommodate diverse needs from small businesses to home media enthusiasts. As the demand for flexible and powerful NAS options grows, a wide range of motherboard configurations now offer features like high-speed […]
The N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard with 10GbE – Should You Buy It? If you’re considering a custom NAS or server build, the N305 M-ITX NAS Motherboard with 10GbE offers an enticing mix of performance, power efficiency, and networking prowess. Designed with modern demands in mind, it combines Intel’s Alder Lake-N processors with a robust set […]
DIY NAS vs Turnkey NAS: Which is Best for You? Today, we’re going to try and quickly and (bluntly) answer a key question in the world of network-attached storage: should you build your own NAS (DIY) or opt for a turnkey solution in 2024? This topic has been hotly debated in our recent video, “Build […]
The EASIEST NAS Software You Can Use on Your Custom NAS Server The appeal of building your very own NAS server instead of purchasing pre-built and OS-locked alternatives from brands like Synology or QNAP, as well as ditching third-party cloud storage from Google and Apple that is subscription-based, cannot really be argued with! The savings […]
CWWK M8 MITX 10GbE NAS Motherboard & CPU Review The CWWK M8 NAS motherboard, equipped with either the Intel Twin Lake N150 or N355 processor, is a compact Mini-ITX platform aimed at advanced home NAS builders and small office users looking for a cost-effective alternative to branded NAS systems. Measuring just 17 x 17 cm, […]
CWWK M8 MITX 10GbE NAS Motherboard & CPU Review The CWWK M8 NAS motherboard, equipped with either the Intel Twin Lake N150 or N355 processor, is a compact Mini-ITX platform aimed at advanced home NAS builders and small office users looking for a cost-effective alternative to branded NAS systems. Measuring just 17 x 17 cm, […]
N7 AMD 8845HS 2x 10GbE NAS Motherboard Review The MINIROUTE N7 NAS motherboard, also sold under the CWWK brand, is a compact Mini-ITX board built around the AMD Ryzen 8845HS processor, targeting power users and professionals seeking a dense, high-performance platform for NAS or compact server deployments. With its Zen 4 architecture, integrated AMD Ryzen […]
N7 AMD 8845HS 2x 10GbE NAS Motherboard Review The MINIROUTE N7 NAS motherboard, also sold under the CWWK brand, is a compact Mini-ITX board built around the AMD Ryzen 8845HS processor, targeting power users and professionals seeking a dense, high-performance platform for NAS or compact server deployments. With its Zen 4 architecture, integrated AMD Ryzen […]
Xyber Hydra NAS Review Note – there is going to be ALOT of comparisons with the GMKtec G9 Nucbox NAS in this review. This is because the Hydra is clearly either built in partnership with GMKtec, or at least using branded components from the same factory (see example below). Likewise given this system’s similarity to […]
GMKTec G9 NAS (New Improved Cooling Version) Review Important – My original review of the GMKTec G9 NAS in it’s original design can be found HERE on YouTube and HERE on the NASCompares blog. The GMKTec G9 NucBox NAS has re-emerged in mid-2025 with a revised cooling design, following a wave of thermal criticism directed […]
The Zimaboard 2 Single Board Server Review – The Best Yet? In an increasingly saturated market of single-board computers and compact servers, the ZimaBoard 2 arrives with a clear goal: to offer an affordable, x86-powered, DIY-friendly alternative that bridges the gap between embedded systems and full-blown home servers. Developed by IceWhale, a brand that has […]
Synology DS1825+ vs UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS – Which Should You Buy? In 2025, the market for high-capacity 8-bay NAS systems has become more competitive than ever, with traditional leaders like Synology now facing serious contenders from newer brands such as UGREEN. The Synology DS1825+ represents the company’s latest flagship in the Plus series, incorporating […]
The UGREEN DH4300 PLUS NAS Review – Good Value? The UGREEN DH4300 Plus is a 4-bay NAS solution introduced quietly into the company’s growing lineup of storage devices, appearing online without the usual fanfare. Closely related to the DH4300 Plus in both hardware and feature set, this model forms part of UGREEN’s value-tier NAS systems, […]
The UGREEN DH4300 PLUS NAS Review – Good Value? The UGREEN DH4300 Plus is a 4-bay NAS solution introduced quietly into the company’s growing lineup of storage devices, appearing online without the usual fanfare. Closely related to the DH4300 Plus in both hardware and feature set, this model forms part of UGREEN’s value-tier NAS systems, […]
DS1825+ vs DXP8800 PLUS NAS – Synology or UGREEN for your Data? In 2025, the market for high-capacity 8-bay NAS systems has become more competitive than ever, with traditional leaders like Synology now facing serious contenders from newer brands such as UGREEN. The Synology DS1825+ represents the company’s latest flagship in the Plus series, incorporating […]
GMKTec NucBox G9 Flash NAS Review – Insane Value? Note – a new version of the GMKTec G9 is Now Available (wherein GMKTec have improved the cooling system). I reviewed the new version HERE on NASCompares and HERE on the YouTube Channel The GMKtec NucBox G9 represents the brand’s first attempt to transition from the mini […]
GMKTec G9 Ver.2 NAS Review – Cooler Now? Important – My original review of the GMKTec G9 NAS in it’s original design can be found HERE on YouTube and HERE on the NASCompares blog. The GMKTec G9 NucBox NAS has re-emerged in mid-2025 with a revised cooling design, following a wave of thermal criticism directed […]
New Value Series UGREEN DH4300 and DH2300 NAS Drives UGREEN has unveiled two new value-focused NAS devices, the DH3400 and DH3200, designed to meet the needs of home and small office users who want practical, low-power network storage without unnecessary complexity. The DH3400 is a 4-bay model, while the DH3200 offers a 2-bay configuration, both […]
New Value Series UGREEN DH4300 and DH2300 NAS Drives UGREEN has unveiled two new value-focused NAS devices, the DH3400 and DH3200, designed to meet the needs of home and small office users who want practical, low-power network storage without unnecessary complexity. The DH3400 is a 4-bay model, while the DH3200 offers a 2-bay configuration, both […]