Key Takeaway: The network-attached storage market has been dominated by established players for decades, with Synology leading the pack for home and small business users. However, 2024 brought an unexpected challenger that has generated considerable attention: Ugreen's NASync series.
Known primarily for charging cables, power banks, and computer accessories, Ugreen has successfully entered the NAS market with their NASync series. Originally launched through a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $6,678,664 from 13,285 backers, the NASync lineup is now widely available through major retailers including Amazon, B&H, and Ugreen's direct sales channels. But can a newcomer really compete with Synology's two decades of NAS expertise?
The Hardware Showdown: Where Ugreen Flexes Its Muscles
Ugreen's Impressive Hardware Portfolio
Ugreen has made a strong entry into the NAS market with comprehensive hardware offerings. Their NASync series spans six models, from the entry-level 2-bay DXP2800 to the flagship 8-bay DXP8800 Plus, with a unique all-flash DXP480T Plus model for performance enthusiasts. All models are now available through Amazon, B&H Photo, and other major retailers.
Standout Hardware Features:
Modern Intel processors: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U with 10 cores and 12 threads in premium models
DDR5 memory: 4800MHz RAM, expandable up to 64GB on higher-tier models
Dual 10GbE ports: Available on pro models, with link aggregation for 20Gbps bandwidth
Thunderbolt 4 connectivity: Dual TB4 ports on select models
Generous M.2 slots: Up to 4 NVMe slots on the DXP480T Plus
DXP6800 Pro Specifications
Processor
Intel Core i5-1235U
Memory
8GB DDR5 RAM (expandable to 64GB)
Drive Bays
6 SATA bays + 2 M.2 NVMe slots
Networking
Dual 10GbE ports
Current Price
$1,019 (discounted from $1,199)
How Synology Stacks Up
Synology's approach has been more conservative on hardware while focusing on software excellence. Their comparable 6-bay DS1621+ features:
AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor (2.2GHz)
4GB DDR4 ECC RAM (expandable to 32GB)
Four 1GbE ports (10GbE expansion requires additional purchase)
Hardware Verdict: Ugreen delivers significantly more raw performance per dollar. The inclusion of dual 10GbE ports, Thunderbolt 4, and DDR5 memory in the base price represents exceptional value compared to Synology's offerings.
Software: The Great Divide
Synology's DSM: The Gold Standard
Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) represents over 20 years of refinement. It's where the company truly shines:
DSM Strengths:
Comprehensive app ecosystem: Hundreds of first-party and third-party applications
Enterprise features: Advanced snapshot technology, IP SAN support, comprehensive backup solutions
Mobile integration: Polished iOS and Android apps for remote access
Security: Robust user management, two-factor authentication, comprehensive logging
Documentation: Extensive guides, tutorials, and community support
Ugreen's UGOS Pro: Promising but Developing
Ugreen's operating system shows promise but clearly needs time to mature:
UGOS Pro Current State:
Clean interface: Modern, intuitive design reminiscent of DSM
Essential features: File management, media streaming, Docker support
Limited app selection: Currently, around 16 applications are available
Missing enterprise features: No snapshot support, limited backup options, no IP SAN
Active development: Regular OTA updates with new features planned
Upcoming UGOS Features (Roadmap):
AI model management and LLM-based chatbot
Enhanced photo organization with AI recognition
Smart meeting summarization
Improved monitoring and security tools
Software Verdict: Synology maintains a substantial advantage in software maturity, but Ugreen's development roadmap and modern architecture suggest the gap will narrow over time.
The Value Proposition Battle
Where Ugreen Wins
1. Hardware Price-to-Performance
Ugreen's DXP6800 Pro offers enterprise-grade hardware at prosumer prices. The dual 10GbE ports alone would cost hundreds to add to a Synology system.
2. No Vendor Lock-in
Unlike Synology's recent push toward “validated” drives, Ugreen supports any standard SATA drive or M.2 SSD, giving users complete flexibility in storage choices. This approach aligns with industry standards for storage device compatibility and reduces long-term costs.
3. Future-Proofing
The modern Intel processors, DDR5 memory, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity ensure these systems will remain relevant longer than competing Synology models. Thunderbolt 4's 40Gbps bandwidth provides substantial headroom for future expansion.
4. Third-Party OS Support
Ugreen officially supports installing alternative operating systems like TrueNAS or Unraid while maintaining hardware warranty coverage.
Where Synology Maintains Advantages
1. Software Ecosystem Maturity
DSM's comprehensive feature set and extensive app library remain unmatched for users who need turnkey solutions.
2. Enterprise Reliability
Two decades of enterprise deployments have proven Synology's reliability and support infrastructure. NAS systems often serve as the backbone of comprehensive business backup strategies, where reliability is paramount.
3. Global Support Network
Established support channels and worldwide service availability provide peace of mind for business deployments.
4. Long-term Updates
Synology's track record of providing software updates for 6+ years ensures long-term value.
Real-World Performance Insights
Based on early user reviews and testing, the performance story is nuanced:
Network Performance: Ugreen's dual 10GbE implementation delivers exceptional throughput, with users reporting sustained transfers exceeding 1GB/s in RAID configurations. This high-speed connectivity becomes especially valuable when upgrading your office network infrastructure to handle multi-gigabit speeds.
Processing Power: The modern Intel processors handle multiple 4K streams and Docker containers more efficiently than Synology's older AMD chips.
Storage Flexibility: Users appreciate the ability to mix different drive types and brands without compatibility warnings or restrictions.
Setup Experience: Both platforms offer guided setup, but Synology's process is more refined and has better error handling and troubleshooting guidance.
Target Audience Analysis
Choose Ugreen If You:
Choose Synology If You:
Prioritize hardware performance and specifications
Need a mature, feature-complete software platform
Want maximum value for money
Require enterprise-grade backup and snapshot features
Plan to use third-party operating systems
Want extensive third-party app support
Need high-speed connectivity (10GbE, Thunderbolt 4)
Prioritize long-term support and stability
Have technical knowledge to work around software limitations
Prefer turnkey solutions over DIY configurations
The Bigger Picture: Market Dynamics
Ugreen's entry represents more than just another NAS option—it reflects changing market demands. According to PCMag reader satisfaction surveys, Synology scores 9.2 out of 10 in overall satisfaction. Yet, Ugreen's successful transition from Kickstarter to mainstream retail availability demonstrates a significant appetite for alternatives, particularly as established companies implement restrictive hardware policies.
The NASync series is now readily available through Amazon, B&H Photo, Micro Center, and other major retailers, making it a viable mainstream alternative rather than a niche, crowdfunded product. This accessibility has positioned Ugreen as a legitimate competitor in the established NAS market.
Synology's recent moves toward vendor restrictions have prompted some customers to explore alternatives, creating an opportunity that Ugreen has addressed effectively. The newcomer's commitment to open hardware compatibility and competitive pricing targets key concerns with existing solutions.
Looking Forward: The Evolution Timeline
Short-term (6-12 months): Ugreen will focus on software development, adding missing enterprise features, and expanding its app ecosystem. Early adopters will help identify pain points and priority features.
Medium Term (1-2 years): Expect UGOS to reach feature parity with the current DSM in core functionality. Third-party developers will likely begin creating applications for the platform.
Long Term (2+ years): If Ugreen maintains their development pace and hardware innovation, they could become a legitimate alternative for business deployments, not just enthusiast projects.
The Bottom Line
Ugreen's NASync series represents the most credible challenge to Synology's dominance in years. Their hardware-first approach delivers exceptional value, but software maturity remains the key differentiator.
For users who prioritize cutting-edge hardware and don't mind some growing pains, Ugreen offers compelling advantages. However, those who need a fully-featured, enterprise-ready platform today should stick with Synology's proven ecosystem.
The real benefit of this competition is for consumers. Ugreen's market entry encourages innovation across the industry, potentially leading to better products and more competitive pricing from all NAS vendors.
Final Recommendation
Consider Ugreen if you prioritize cutting-edge hardware and have technical expertise in developing software. Choose Synology if you need comprehensive features and an established support infrastructure. Both approaches offer valid benefits depending on your specific requirements.
Where to Buy
Ugreen NASync Series: Available on Amazon's dedicated UGREEN store, B&H Photo, Micro Center, and Ugreen's official website. Current pricing ranges from $296 (DXP2800) to $1,274 (DXP8800 Plus). The mid-range UGREEN DXP4800 offers excellent value for small offices needing reliable 4-bay storage.
Synology DS1621+: Available through Amazon's Synology store, B&H Photo, and authorized Synology resellers. Typically priced around $799-899 for the diskless unit.
Whether you're considering upgrading from an existing Synology system or planning your first NAS purchase, both Ugreen and Synology offer compelling solutions available through major retailers today. The choice between cutting-edge hardware with developing software versus mature, feature-complete solutions represents an interesting decision point in the current storage market.
Synology continues dominating the small business NAS market with mature software and reliable hardware, but 2025 significantly changes purchasing decisions.
Your business data is growing faster than ever, cloud storage costs are spiraling out of control, and you're tired of depending on services you can't control. Enter Synology NAS systems—the Swiss Army knife of business storage that promises to solve these headaches. But 2025 brings a controversial twist that's dividing the tech community and could dramatically impact your buying decision.
After testing the latest DS925+ and spending weeks analyzing Synology's dramatic policy shifts, we're cutting through the marketing noise to answer the critical question: Is Synology still the smart choice for small business storage, or have recent changes pushed it into overpriced territory?
Whether you're a five-person startup drowning in spreadsheets or a 50-employee company planning your next IT upgrade, this comprehensive review will help you avoid costly mistakes and make the right storage investment for your business.
Key Takeaways
Aspect
Details
Best Models
DS925+ ($620-630) for small business, DS1825+ (~$1,100-1,200) for larger teams
Major Change
2025 models require Synology-approved drives only (40% cost increase)
4.5/5 – Excellent for feature-rich business storage, limited for budget-focused deployments
At a Glance
Our Verdict: Synology NAS systems deliver comprehensive business storage solutions with mature software and extensive features, making them ideal for growing companies that need more than basic file storage. However, recent drive compatibility restrictions increase costs and limit flexibility for budget-conscious businesses.
Higher total cost due to proprietary drive requirements
An aging processor architecture in some models
Steep learning curve for basic storage needs
Premium pricing compared to alternatives
Drive flexibility restrictions starting in 2025
Quick Specifications
Model
Bays
Price
Networking
Best For
DS925+
4-bay
$620-630
Dual 2.5GbE
Small-medium business
DS1825+
8-bay
~$1,100-1,200
Dual 2.5GbE
Growing organizations
DS1523xs+
5-bay
~$1,800
10GbE option
Performance-focused
What Is Synology NAS?
Synology Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems are centralized storage devices that go far beyond simple file sharing. Built around the company's DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, these devices function as complete business platforms offering file storage, backup services, collaboration tools, and even virtualization capabilities.
Unlike basic external drives or simple network storage, Synology NAS devices provide a comprehensive suite of business applications accessible through any web browser. This includes everything from automated backup solutions and file synchronization to video surveillance management and email servers.
The platform simultaneously addresses multiple business needs: centralizing file storage across teams, automating data backup and recovery, enabling secure remote access, and providing collaboration tools that rival cloud-based services. For businesses outgrowing basic storage solutions but not ready for enterprise-level infrastructure, Synology effectively bridges this gap.
For organizations considering their broader business software strategy, NAS systems represent a crucial component in maintaining data sovereignty while reducing cloud dependency.
Understanding DSM: The Heart of Synology
DiskStation Manager 7.2.2, Synology's current operating system (latest update February 2025), transforms basic storage hardware into a sophisticated business platform. The web-based interface provides access to hundreds of applications through the Package Center, allowing businesses to customize their NAS according to specific needs.
Key built-in applications include:
Active Backup for Business: Comprehensive backup solution for computers, servers, and virtual machines
Synology Drive: File synchronization and collaboration with real-time editing capabilities
Surveillance Station: Professional video management with AI-powered analytics
MailPlus: Self-hosted email server with advanced security features
Synology Chat: Team communication platform with file sharing integration
Design and Build Quality
Synology's 2025 hardware lineup maintains the company's reputation for solid build quality while introducing modest improvements to address longstanding connectivity limitations.
Hardware Evolution
The DS925+, Synology's latest 4-bay model, features a compact design measuring 8.7 x 7.8 x 9.2 inches and weighing 7.5 pounds without drives. The unit's tool-free drive installation system allows easy maintenance and expansion, while the external power supply design lowers internal temperatures and reduces noise levels.
Significant improvements include dual 2.5GbE networking ports, replacing the legacy 1GbE connections that limited previous generations. However, the processing power remains modest with AMD's Ryzen V1500B quad-core processor from 2018, raising questions about long-term performance competitiveness.
Important note: Unlike the DS923+, the DS925+ does not support 10GbE expansion cards, limiting maximum network performance to 2.5GbE speeds.
Connectivity and Expansion
Modern connectivity options include:
Dual 2.5GbE ports with link aggregation support
Four USB 3.2 ports for external storage expansion
USB-C port for high-speed external connections
eSATA port for compatible external drives
Expansion capability through DX523 units for additional storage
The inclusion of M.2 NVMe slots allows for SSD caching or dedicated high-speed storage pools, significantly improving performance for frequently accessed files.
Features and Performance
Storage Management and RAID Options
Synology's storage management shines through its Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) technology, which automatically optimizes storage efficiency when using drives of different sizes. This feature particularly benefits small businesses that may add storage incrementally over time.
Traditional RAID options (0, 1, 5, 6, 10) remain available for businesses with specific performance or redundancy requirements. The system supports 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA drives, providing flexibility for capacity and performance optimization.
Performance benchmarks for the DS925+:
Sequential read speeds: Up to 522 MB/s
Sequential write speeds: Up to 565 MB/s
4K random read IOPS: 4,800
4K random write IOPS: 4,200
These speeds represent significant improvements over previous generations, though real-world performance depends heavily on network infrastructure and drive selection.
Business Applications Suite
Backup and Data Protection
Active Backup for Business provides comprehensive protection for Windows and Linux systems, VMware environments, and Microsoft 365 data. The agentless backup approach minimizes system impact while offering flexible scheduling and retention policies.
File Sharing and Collaboration
Synology Drive offers real-time collaboration features comparable to Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive, but with complete data control. Teams can edit documents simultaneously, track version history, and sync files across devices while maintaining local data sovereignty.
Security and Access Control
Advanced user management supports Active Directory integration, two-factor authentication, and granular permission systems. The Security Advisor continuously scans for vulnerabilities and provides actionable recommendations for improving system security.
Screenshot
Virtualization Capabilities
Virtual Machine Manager allows businesses to run multiple operating systems on a single NAS unit, effectively consolidating server infrastructure. This capability proves particularly valuable for testing environments, legacy application support, or running specific business applications.
Docker support enables container-based application deployment, expanding the platform's capabilities through thousands of available container applications.
Critical 2025 Changes: Drive Compatibility
Important Notice: The most significant development affecting 2025 Synology purchases involves new drive compatibility requirements for Plus series models. Beginning with the DS925+ and similar new releases, Synology requires proprietary or certified drives for full functionality.
What This Means for Businesses
Approved Drive Options:
Synology HAT3300 series (consumer-grade)
Synology HAT5300 series (business-grade)
Synology SAT5221 series (high-performance)
Select certified third-party drives
Practical Implications:
Higher initial storage costs due to proprietary drive premiums (approximately 40% more expensive than third-party alternatives)
Reduced flexibility in emergency drive replacements
Simplified warranty and support processes
Potential performance optimizations through hardware-software integration
Real-world impact: Users report difficulties with popular drives like Seagate IronWolf, which are no longer recognized by the system
Grandfathering Policy:
Existing drives from older Synology systems can be migrated to new units, though functionality may be limited and stability warnings may appear. This provides a transition path for current Synology users while effectively requiring new purchasers to use approved drives.
Performance Benefits and Trade-offs
Synology claims significant performance improvements with approved drives, including 29% faster sequential reads and 27% quicker RAID rebuild times. However, these benefits come at the cost of storage flexibility, which many businesses have traditionally valued.
This change fundamentally alters the value proposition for organizations with substantial existing drive investments or those prioritizing vendor flexibility. Budget-conscious businesses may need to consider whether the improved integration justifies the increased total cost of ownership.
Pricing and Value Analysis
Current Market Positioning
Synology's pricing reflects its premium positioning in the small business NAS market. The DS925+ starts at $620-630 without drives, requiring additional investment in approved storage media.
Cloud backup storage: Optional, starting at $60/year
Support plans: Available for enterprise customers
Cost Comparison Analysis
Synology provides significant value for small to medium businesses compared to enterprise solutions. A comparable enterprise storage array with similar capabilities would typically cost 3-5 times more and require specialized IT expertise for management.
However, Synology's premium becomes more apparent against simpler NAS solutions or cloud storage services. Organizations must weigh the comprehensive feature set against potentially higher costs for basic storage needs.
Competition and Alternatives
Direct Competitors
QNAP
QNAP offers similar functionality with more aggressive pricing and broader drive compatibility. However, the QTS operating system is generally considered less polished than DSM, and the company's security track record has faced scrutiny.
UniFi UNAS Pro
Ubiquiti's enterprise networking expertise translates to competent NAS solutions with excellent integration into UniFi ecosystems. Limited software capabilities and newer market presence represent potential concerns for business-critical deployments.
TrueNAS Scale
Based on open-source ZFS technology, TrueNAS provides enterprise-grade features at lower costs. However, the platform requires significant technical expertise and lacks the user-friendly applications that define Synology's appeal.
Cloud Storage Alternatives
Microsoft OneDrive for Business
Offers familiar integration with Microsoft 365 environments at predictable monthly costs. However, businesses lose local data control and face ongoing subscription expenses that may exceed NAS costs over time.
Google Workspace
Provides excellent collaboration tools and unlimited storage options for larger organizations. Similar to Microsoft's offering, the subscription model and cloud dependency may not suit all business requirements.
When to Choose Synology
Synology excels for businesses that:
Need comprehensive data management beyond basic storage
Value local data control and reduced cloud dependency
Require integrated backup, collaboration, and security features
Have technical staff capable of managing moderately complex systems
Plan to scale storage requirements over time
Real-World Implementation Scenarios
Small Professional Services Firm (10-25 employees)
Challenge: Replace aging file server while adding modern backup and collaboration capabilities
Solution: DS925+ with automated backup of all workstations, Synology Drive for file sharing, and integrated security monitoring
Results: Eliminated Windows Server licensing costs, reduced backup complexity, and provided secure remote access during the shift to hybrid work arrangements
Growing Manufacturing Company (50+ employees)
Challenge: Centralize file storage across multiple departments while ensuring data protection and compliance
Solution: DS1825+ primary unit with secondary DS925+ for off-site replication, comprehensive backup scheduling, and departmental access controls. Note that the DS1825+ uses the same AMD Ryzen V1500B processor as the DS925+, maintaining consistency across the 2025 lineup.
Results: Consolidated five separate file servers, achieved sub-15-minute recovery objectives, and reduced overall storage costs by 35% while improving data protection
Creative Agency (15 employees)
Challenge: Manage large video files, enable remote collaboration, and protect intellectual property
Solution: DS1523xs+ with 10GbE networking, high-performance SSD caching, and encrypted file sharing for client access
Results: Improved project turnaround times through faster file access, enabled seamless remote collaboration, and enhanced client satisfaction through secure file sharing portals
Setup and Management
Initial Configuration
Synology's setup process ranks among the most straightforward in the business NAS category. The web-based installation wizard guides users through essential configuration steps, including RAID setup, user creation, and network configuration.
Typical setup timeline:
Hardware assembly and drive installation: 30-60 minutes
DSM installation and basic configuration: 1-2 hours
Application installation and user setup: 2-4 hours
Data migration from existing systems: Variable based on data volume
Monitoring storage capacity and performance through built-in dashboards
Reviewing backup job status and adjusting schedules as needed
Installing security updates through the automatic update system
Managing user permissions and access rights as teams evolve
The Security Advisor provides ongoing guidance for maintaining optimal security configurations, while system notifications alert administrators to potential issues before they impact operations.
Performance in Business Environments
Network Infrastructure Considerations
Realizing Synology's full performance potential requires adequate network infrastructure. The inclusion of 2.5GbE networking in 2025 models addresses previous connectivity limitations, but businesses must ensure their switches and cabling support these speeds.
Infrastructure recommendations:
Managed switches with 2.5GbE or 10GbE uplinks
Cat6A cabling for optimal performance
Sufficient internet bandwidth for cloud backup and remote access
Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for data protection
Organizations planning comprehensive network security implementations should consider NAS integration as part of their broader infrastructure strategy.
Scalability and Growth Planning
Synology systems scale effectively through expansion units and capacity upgrades. The modular approach allows businesses to add storage incrementally without disrupting operations or requiring complete system replacement.
Scaling options:
Drive capacity upgrades within existing bays
Expansion units for additional storage bays
Multiple NAS units for distributed storage or redundancy
Cloud integration for off-site backup and disaster recovery
Security and Compliance Features
Built-in Security Measures
DSM incorporates comprehensive security features suitable for business environments:
Advanced encryption support (AES-256, TLS 1.3)
Two-factor authentication with mobile app support
Automated security scanning and vulnerability assessment
Firewall and VPN server capabilities
Audit logging and access monitoring
Compliance Support
For businesses in regulated industries, Synology provides features supporting various compliance requirements:
Data retention policies and automated deletion
Audit trail generation for access and modification tracking
Encryption at rest and in transit
Access control documentation and reporting
While not certified for specific compliance standards, the platform provides tools necessary for maintaining regulatory requirements in most business environments.
Who Should Buy Synology NAS
Ideal Candidates
Growing Small Businesses
Companies with 10-100 employees that need comprehensive data management beyond basic file storage will find Synology's feature set well-suited to their evolving requirements.
Technology-Comfortable Organizations
Businesses with internal IT staff or technically inclined team members can fully leverage DSM's extensive capabilities and customize the platform to specific workflows.
Data-Sensitive Industries
Professional services, healthcare, legal, and financial organizations benefit from local data control and comprehensive security features that cloud solutions may not provide.
Existing Synology Users
Organizations with current Synology deployments gain consistency and simplified management by maintaining the same platform across all locations.
Consider Alternatives If
Basic Storage Needs Only
Businesses requiring simple file sharing without advanced features may find better value in simpler solutions or cloud storage services.
Extremely Budget-Conscious
Organizations where initial cost takes priority over features should evaluate alternatives with lower entry prices and broader drive compatibility.
Limited Technical Resources
Companies without technical staff may struggle with the platform's complexity and might benefit from managed cloud solutions or professional installation services.
High-Performance Computing
Businesses with extreme performance requirements may need purpose-built storage solutions rather than general-purpose NAS devices.
Final Verdict
Synology NAS systems represent mature, feature-rich solutions for businesses seeking comprehensive data management platforms. Combining reliable hardware, sophisticated DSM 7.2.2 software, and an extensive application ecosystem creates genuine value for organizations ready to move beyond basic storage solutions.
Key Insight: The 2025 drive compatibility changes represent the most significant shift in Synology's business model in recent years. They have generated considerable user criticism but potentially provide performance and support advantages. The community feedback has been mixed, with long-time users expressing frustration while new enterprise customers may appreciate the simplified support model.
Bottom Line Recommendation
Choose Synology if your business values comprehensive functionality, local data control, and platform maturity over minimal initial costs. The investment pays dividends through reduced complexity, enhanced capabilities, and long-term reliability.
Consider alternatives if budget constraints are paramount, drive flexibility is essential, or your storage needs are primarily basic file sharing without requirements for advanced features.
For the right organization, Synology delivers exceptional value despite premium pricing. The key lies in understanding whether your business will utilize the platform's comprehensive capabilities or needs basic storage functionality.
Organizations considering broader technology investments should evaluate how NAS systems fit into their overall digital transformation strategy and budget planning.
Our Rating
4.5/5 Stars
Excellent for: Feature-rich business storage with comprehensive applications
Good for: Organizations seeking local data control and platform integration
Limited for: Budget-focused deployments requiring only basic storage
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This review reflects current product offerings and policies as of June 2025. All technical specifications, pricing, and DSM version information have been verified against official sources and recent user experiences. Technology specifications and pricing may change. We may earn affiliate commissions from purchases made through our links, which helps support our independent testing and reviews.
