ASK NC
NAS upgrade consideration - Printable Version

+- ASK NC (https://ask.nascompares.com)
+-- Forum: Q&A (https://ask.nascompares.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=1)
+--- Forum: Before you buy Q&A (https://ask.nascompares.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=2)
+--- Thread: NAS upgrade consideration (/showthread.php?tid=12642)



NAS upgrade consideration - Enquiries - 01-16-2026

Hi,
I have been using a DS220j for four years for backup, storage and as a media server. With increasing use of DSM—especially Surveillance Station (five cameras)—the system has reached its limits. CPU load is moderate, but RAM usage is constantly above 50%, and since adding a 4K camera, responsiveness (DSM UI) has decreased.
I am considering DS225+, 425+, 725+ or 925+. Two bays are sufficient today, but I want to avoid reaching hardware limits again. I use 8 TB and 12 TB IronWolf drives in SHR; storage is adequate.
Current apps: Synology Drive, Cloud Sync, Media Server, Surveillance Station.
Planned: Docker/Container Manager for network monitoring and home automation, possibly a small web server.
Noise is irrelevant; power consumption matters.
Key considerations:
• 2-bay or 4-bay?
• Celeron or AMD Ryzen (future proof CPU!)?
• RAM?
• HDD compatibility?
• Enough power for Surveillance Station?
Should I buy now or wait for new models?
Thanks and best regards,
Falk