Buying Advice

[jp007_uk]

Looking for NAS Recommendations – Advice Appreciated!
I'm exploring options for a home NAS and would love some guidance based on my current needs and preferences.

I currently use Microsoft 365 Personal, primarily for its 1TB storage, as well as the additional perks of Office 365. The ability to access files remotely and revisit cherished memories through daily photo notifications is something we really value. Additionally, Security, backups, and version control give us peace of mind.

However, our storage needs are growing, with only 110GB remaining, and expanding through OneDrive would be costly. As a result, I’m considering a home NAS solution but unsure which would be the best fit. 

Here are the features that matter most to us:

• Have previously considered Synology and QNAP
  
• Remote access from anywhere
  
• At least 2 bays, one for storage and the other configured as RAID 1 (mirroring)
  
• Typically accessed by two users at a time
  
• Android app for easy management and access
  
• Daily photo notifications to revisit memories from past years
  
• Ability to back up select data to OneDrive on a schedule
  
• CCTV software with playback support for Reolink cameras
  
• Capability to host Home Assistant
  
• Virtual machine support
  
• Ability to stream 4K videos stored on the NAS
  

Would greatly appreciate any recommendations.

[ed]

Great post — you're asking all the right questions, and it sounds like you've got a really clear idea of what you need from your NAS.

Given your requirements (especially remote access, RAID 1, 4K streaming, CCTV support, and Home Assistant), I'd recommend looking into the QNAP TS-464 or the Synology DS923+. Both are solid options, but each has its strengths.

? QNAP TS-464
If you're after flexibility, this is a great all-rounder:

4 bays gives you RAID 1 now and expansion room later.

Strong support for Reolink cameras via QVR Pro.

Supports VMs, Docker, and Home Assistant.

Has an HDMI port for direct 4K playback if needed.

QNAP's QuMagie app has a “memories” feature for daily photo throwbacks, similar to what you’re used to with OneDrive.

Backs up to OneDrive using Hybrid Backup Sync.

? Synology DS923+
Also a good choice, especially if you prefer a cleaner user interface and simpler experience:

Excellent mobile apps and cloud integration.

Surveillance Station works well with Reolink.

Native support for OneDrive backup.

Can run Home Assistant and VMs via Virtual Machine Manager.

Synology Photos offers something close to the “daily memory” notifications, though not as polished as Google or Microsoft.

TL;DR
If you want power, flexibility, and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve, go with the QNAP TS-464.

If you want a simpler UI with strong core features and future growth, the Synology DS923+ is a good bet.

Both will handle 4K streaming, remote access, multiple users, and the ability to back up to OneDrive. You really can’t go wrong — it just depends on how hands-on you want to be.

[jp007_uk]

Thank you for the great advice, I'm torn between the 2.
I like Synology for their ease-of-use reputation but I'm also someone who like to have advanced features to tinker with.
Going with the QNAP TS-464, would you recommend the 8G version? and what drives do you recommend? I'm thinking 4TB min.