08-23-2024, 09:29 AM
Replacing your Synology DS215J with a larger 4-bay NAS is a great idea, especially given your expanding needs. Both the DS420+ and DS920+ are solid options, and either would serve you well, but I’ll break down the differences to help you decide.
DS420+ vs. DS920+
Performance and Expandability:
The DS420+ comes with a dual-core processor and 2GB of RAM, which is expandable up to 6GB. It’s great for basic tasks like backups, storing photos and videos, and light media streaming. It's a capable and reliable option for your current needs.
The DS920+, on the other hand, has a quad-core processor and starts with 4GB of RAM, expandable up to 8GB. This extra power makes it better suited for more demanding tasks, such as handling larger video libraries or running multiple applications simultaneously. It also supports SSD caching, which can improve performance if you decide to use it.
Future-Proofing:
If you think your storage needs might grow or you might use the NAS for more intensive tasks in the future, the DS920+ offers more headroom for expansion and heavier usage. It’s more future-proof due to its better specs.
The DS420+ is still a good choice for your current needs but might feel limited sooner if your use cases expand.
Price Considerations:
The DS420+ is typically cheaper, which makes it a budget-friendly option that still covers your current requirements. If budget is a concern, it’s a solid choice.
The DS920+, while a bit more expensive, offers better performance and scalability, which might be worth the investment if you want to ensure your NAS can handle more demanding tasks in the future.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
August can be a good time to buy, especially with back-to-school sales and end-of-summer deals. However, NAS devices don’t often go on sale as much as other tech products. That said, checking for deals or bundles (like with hard drives included) can save some money.
DS420+ vs. DS920+
Performance and Expandability:
The DS420+ comes with a dual-core processor and 2GB of RAM, which is expandable up to 6GB. It’s great for basic tasks like backups, storing photos and videos, and light media streaming. It's a capable and reliable option for your current needs.
The DS920+, on the other hand, has a quad-core processor and starts with 4GB of RAM, expandable up to 8GB. This extra power makes it better suited for more demanding tasks, such as handling larger video libraries or running multiple applications simultaneously. It also supports SSD caching, which can improve performance if you decide to use it.
Future-Proofing:
If you think your storage needs might grow or you might use the NAS for more intensive tasks in the future, the DS920+ offers more headroom for expansion and heavier usage. It’s more future-proof due to its better specs.
The DS420+ is still a good choice for your current needs but might feel limited sooner if your use cases expand.
Price Considerations:
The DS420+ is typically cheaper, which makes it a budget-friendly option that still covers your current requirements. If budget is a concern, it’s a solid choice.
The DS920+, while a bit more expensive, offers better performance and scalability, which might be worth the investment if you want to ensure your NAS can handle more demanding tasks in the future.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
August can be a good time to buy, especially with back-to-school sales and end-of-summer deals. However, NAS devices don’t often go on sale as much as other tech products. That said, checking for deals or bundles (like with hard drives included) can save some money.