10 hours ago
Hi there, and thanks for the message. Between the two units, the DS425+ is the stronger and faster system for almost everything. It has a newer processor, better overall throughput, and it is simply more responsive with modern Synology Photos and general file workloads. For day to day use, photo indexing, facial recognition, and long term support, the DS425+ is the better choice.
Your DS918+ still has one useful advantage. It has the older Intel media engine that supports hardware transcoding in Plex, something that the newer Synology models no longer include. This can be helpful for remote access when you are outside your home and the connection is weaker. For local playback on your LG TV, you should always use direct play so the DS918+ does not need to transcode.
The simplest setup is this. Use the DS425+ as your main system for Synology Photos, file storage, and all daily tasks. Keep the DS918+ available for Plex remote streaming if you want that hardware transcoding benefit.
Your DS918+ still has one useful advantage. It has the older Intel media engine that supports hardware transcoding in Plex, something that the newer Synology models no longer include. This can be helpful for remote access when you are outside your home and the connection is weaker. For local playback on your LG TV, you should always use direct play so the DS918+ does not need to transcode.
The simplest setup is this. Use the DS425+ as your main system for Synology Photos, file storage, and all daily tasks. Keep the DS918+ available for Plex remote streaming if you want that hardware transcoding benefit.