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+--- Thread: Family NAS (/showthread.php?tid=11836)
Family NAS - Enquiries - 03-21-2025
Hi! I love watching the youtube channel!
I am looking for an affordable entry level NAS I can use for family photos, business documents, and some docker containers for things like immich and vaultwarden. I like the idea of a small NVME NAS like the GMKTec NucBox G9. Reason: I'd like to have a small 8u server rack similar to what Jeff Geerling and other youtubers have been setting up.
I would like to run TruesNAS or OMV. I also care about hardware the will be stable for a long while.
RE: Family NAS - Blent2003 - 03-25-2025
(03-21-2025, 10:00 PM)Enquiries Wrote: Hi! I love watching the youtube channel!
I am looking for an affordable entry level NAS I can use for family photos, business documents, and some docker containers for things like immich solitaire bliss and vaultwarden. I like the idea of a small NVME NAS like the GMKTec NucBox G9. Reason: I'd like to have a small 8u server rack similar to what Jeff Geerling and other youtubers have been setting up.
I would like to run TruesNAS or OMV. I also care about hardware the will be stable for a long while.
Try it.
RE: Family NAS - ed - 03-28-2025
You're absolutely on the right track with your goals. For a compact, affordable NAS that can run TrueNAS or OMV reliably, something like the GMKTec NucBox G9 is a clever pick. It's a great little box for docker containers like Immich and Vaultwarden, and as long as you pair it with quality NVMe storage and enough RAM (ideally 16GB if you're leaning toward TrueNAS Scale), you’ll have a solid little workhorse.
That said, for around $200–700 and aiming for 4–8TB of storage, you might also want to consider:
Beelink EQ12 or EQ13 (with Intel N100 or N305) — passive cooling options, efficient and great for docker.
Topton or Kingnovy builds from AliExpress — mini-PCs with 2.5GbE and NVMe support, perfect for a rack shelf build.
Mini-ITX board + Node 304 or Jonsbo N1/N3 case — if you’re up for building, this route gives you full flexibility and future-proofing.
Whichever route you go, keep in mind:
TrueNAS prefers ECC memory, though not required — OMV is a little more forgiving if you’re not using server-grade gear.
Look for Intel NICs if possible — better compatibility across NAS OSes.
Prioritize reliable cooling, especially in a rack setup.
You’re building a very capable little system for home and small business use — and honestly, with docker apps and NVMe speed, it’ll feel far more powerful than many pre-built NAS units.