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I am eager to implement a centralised backup solution in my home, however I am weighing up the cost-effectiveness of ready-to-go NAS boxes (e.g Synology, QNAP, Terramaster, etc.) or to build a DIY nas and BYO operating system to it like TrueNAS. In Australia, Amazon have Terramaster systems for as low as AU$399, however they are reviewed poorly and I am nervous about buying something that doesn't last, although the cost is appealing. On the other hand, I like the expandability of a DIY NAS and the control I can get over it. However once all of the parts of a DIY NAS are added up, it ends up costing more than a Synology system. Would it be better to buy a Terramaster system and flash my own operating system to it, buy a NUC and drive bays, or build a NAS from scratch? I'm stuck for choice..!
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Given your budget (AU$500 - AU$800), a pre-built NAS like the Synology or QNAP options would offer ease of use, reliability, and support, making it a solid choice if you want a system that's ready to go out of the box. Synology, for example, is known for its polished software experience and excellent customer support. While a Terramaster might be cheaper upfront, the poor reviews you mentioned could be a concern in terms of longevity and performance, which might result in higher costs in the long run due to potential issues.
On the other hand, building a DIY NAS or using something like a NUC does provide more flexibility and control, especially if you have specific requirements. However, once you factor in the price of components like drives, a good chassis, and a system that can handle it all, it may push the cost over your ideal budget, especially if you go for higher-quality parts.
If you prioritize expandability and DIY, a DIY NAS with something like TrueNAS could be a great option, but if you want something more straightforward and reliable, you might want to lean towards a ready-to-go option, even if it's a bit more expensive than a Terramaster.
Ultimately, if you're comfortable with the hands-on maintenance and potential troubleshooting of a DIY setup, it could be a rewarding project. But for peace of mind and reliability, a system like Synology or QNAP would likely serve you better in the long term.
