01-04-2026, 03:28 PM
If you want the simplest and most reliable option
A Synology DS225 Plus or DS425 Plus is the best fit.
Synology gives you private cloud features, excellent mobile apps, and the easiest setup with strong security. Home Assistant can be installed inside Docker, and Plex or Jellyfin also run well.
For your storage size you can use 2 x 8TB or 2 x 16TB drives to start. Synology’s SHR lets you expand later without losing data.
If you want the best value and more power
A TerraMaster F4 424 is a great choice. It gives you 4 bays, fast CPU, and enough resources to run Home Assistant, Immich and Plex together. TerraMaster TRAID works like Synology SHR so expanding later is easy. It’s more powerful for the money but not quite as polished as Synology.
If you want maximum flexibility and privacy control
A small DIY unit with ZimaOS or TrueNAS Scale is the most private because everything stays completely local and open source. For your budget a CWWK N100 NVMe based unit or a Beelink mini NAS gives great performance and can easily run Home Assistant, Immich and Plex. This route takes a bit more learning but gives you the most control.
My direct recommendation for you
If you want a smooth first experience without headaches, pick:
Synology DS425 Plus
2 x 8TB WD Red Plus or Toshiba N300
Install Home Assistant and Immich through Docker
Enable Synology’s built in firewall and user permissions
This gives you private, secure remote access, photo backup, and media streaming with almost no maintenance.
If you prefer a lower price but still strong performance, TerraMaster F4 424 is the runner up.
A Synology DS225 Plus or DS425 Plus is the best fit.
Synology gives you private cloud features, excellent mobile apps, and the easiest setup with strong security. Home Assistant can be installed inside Docker, and Plex or Jellyfin also run well.
For your storage size you can use 2 x 8TB or 2 x 16TB drives to start. Synology’s SHR lets you expand later without losing data.
If you want the best value and more power
A TerraMaster F4 424 is a great choice. It gives you 4 bays, fast CPU, and enough resources to run Home Assistant, Immich and Plex together. TerraMaster TRAID works like Synology SHR so expanding later is easy. It’s more powerful for the money but not quite as polished as Synology.
If you want maximum flexibility and privacy control
A small DIY unit with ZimaOS or TrueNAS Scale is the most private because everything stays completely local and open source. For your budget a CWWK N100 NVMe based unit or a Beelink mini NAS gives great performance and can easily run Home Assistant, Immich and Plex. This route takes a bit more learning but gives you the most control.
My direct recommendation for you
If you want a smooth first experience without headaches, pick:
Synology DS425 Plus
2 x 8TB WD Red Plus or Toshiba N300
Install Home Assistant and Immich through Docker
Enable Synology’s built in firewall and user permissions
This gives you private, secure remote access, photo backup, and media streaming with almost no maintenance.
If you prefer a lower price but still strong performance, TerraMaster F4 424 is the runner up.