First NAS - DS423+ or DS923+

[Enquiries]

Hi, I hope you can help! I’ve read several threads multiple times but I still can’t decide which is best.

I have a catalog of photos (>4TB worth if I can remember) across 2 external HDDs which I’d like to move to a NAS. Reason being, is easy access to go back and edit older photos when I like, and in the future, move family photos, phone photos and anything else to it in the future. I’m always in to my photography and want a better solution to store them. I’m not too worried about Synology photos but if it is recommended I’d happily look into it. I would look to re-use the HDDs to backup the NAS and keep one offsite.

At home I have FTTP (UK) which is the 1Gbps package (usually 800 down and 150 up). It would be nice to point my Lightroom to look at the NAS and directly edit the photos stored on there. I’m not worried about anything like PLEX. Just photo storage, and access from phone if required. I can’t decide between 423 vs 923 - About £100 difference on the used market.

[ed]

Totally get where you're coming from — there’s a lot of info out there and the DS423+ vs DS923+ debate can get a bit muddy.

From what you’ve said, your setup sounds pretty straightforward: mostly photo storage, occasional editing, and maybe some phone access. No need for Plex or heavy apps. In that case, honestly, the DS423+ might be the better pick for you — it’s got an Intel CPU (nice for general compatibility), is quieter, and handles photo storage and basic access really well. Plus, if it's £100 cheaper used, that's money saved for drives or a UPS.

The DS923+ does have a bit more horsepower and expandability (RAM, 10GbE, NVMe cache), but unless you’re planning on doing heavy Lightroom editing directly on the NAS or running a bunch of services, you might not need the extra oomph.

Reusing your external HDDs for offsite backup? Great call.

If you’re ever tempted by Synology Photos — it’s not bad. A bit basic, but does the job. Especially handy for phone backups if you want to keep everything in one place.