If you’re setting up a Plex server with an 8 bay NAS, you’re looking for a balance of storage capacity, performance, and ease of use. The TerraMaster F6-425 Pro stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its solid performance and versatile features. For those focused on high-speed connectivity, the QNAP TS-873A offers great value with its robust hardware. Keep in mind that choosing the right NAS involves tradeoffs between price, performance, expandability, and ease of setup. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the best options and what to consider before buying.
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Key Takeaways
- The best NAS for Plex balances powerful hardware with user-friendly features for smooth media streaming.
- Connectivity options like 2.5GbE and 5GbE significantly impact streaming performance, especially in multi-user setups.
- Diskless models offer flexibility but require additional investment in drives and setup time.
- Build quality and expandability vary; high-end models often include additional M.2 slots and HDMI outputs.
- Price ranges widely, so consider whether you need high performance or a more budget-friendly setup.
| TERRAMASTER F6-425 Pro NAS Server, Intel Core i3-1315U, 8GB DDR5, Diskless |  | Best Overall for Power and Flexibility | Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Drive Bays: Diskless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN DXP2800 GT NAS for Smart Home Enthusiasts, Creators & Freelancers |  | Best for Flexible, High-Capacity Storage and Creator Needs | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | RAM: 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB) | Drive Bays: 2 SATA up to 32TB each | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2 AS6706T – 6 Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core CPU, 4 M.2 NVMe Slots, Dual 2.5GbE, 8GB DDR4, HDMI, Diskless |  | Best for Media and Small Business Content Creation | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | Drive Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-832PX-4G 8-Bay NAS |  | Best for Network Performance and Enterprise-Grade Reliability | Processor: AnnapurnaLabs Alpine AL324 | RAM: 4 GB DDR4 (expandable to 16 GB) | Bays: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-873A-8G 8-Bay NAS |  | Best for Power and Versatility in a Compact Package | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded V1500B | RAM: 8GB DDR4 (max 64GB) | Bays: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-855X-8G-US 8-Bay NAS |  | Best Overall for High-Speed Enterprise-Grade Performance | Processor: Intel Atom C5125 8-core 2.8GHz | RAM: 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 128GB with ECC support) | Network Ports: 1x 10Gbase-T, 2x 2.5GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay, Intel N95 4-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 (Diskless) |  | Best Value for Reliable Performance in Small to Medium Business Settings | CPU: Intel N95 4-core 3.4GHz (turbo) | Memory: 8GB DDR5 4800MHz (upgradable to 32GB) | Number of Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 8 Bay NAS Case Supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX Motherboards with Dual-Chamber Design |  | Best DIY Enclosure for Custom NAS Builds | Storage Capacity: 8 HDD bays + 2 SSD slots | Motherboard Compatibility: Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX | Fan Mounts: 4×120mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6706T v2 6-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 8GB DDR4, 4 M.2 Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server |  | Best for Media Professionals and Content Creators | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | Memory: 8GB DDR4 | Drive Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| bay nas for plex server | Processor | RAM | Drive Bays |
|---|---|---|---|
| TERRAMASTER F6-425 Pro NAS Ser | Intel Core i3-1315U | 8GB DDR5 | Diskless |
| UGREEN DXP2800 GT NAS for Smar | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB) | 2 SATA up to 32TB each |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2 AS67 | Intel Celeron N5105 | 8GB DDR4 | 6 |
| QNAP TS-832PX-4G 8-Bay NAS | AnnapurnaLabs Alpine AL324 | 4 GB DDR4 (expandable to 16 GB) | — |
| QNAP TS-873A-8G 8-Bay NAS | AMD Ryzen Embedded V1500B | 8GB DDR4 (max 64GB) | — |
| QNAP TS-855X-8G-US 8-Bay NAS | Intel Atom C5125 8-core 2.8GHz | 8GB DDR4 (expandable to 128GB with ECC support) | 8 |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay | — | — | — |
| 8 Bay NAS Case Supports Micro- | — | — | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | — | 6 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
TERRAMASTER F6-425 Pro NAS Server, Intel Core i3-1315U, 8GB DDR5, Diskless
The TERRAMASTER F6-425 Pro stands out for its high-performance Intel Core i3 processor and advanced AI-powered OS, making it ideal for media creators who need robust processing and multitasking capabilities. Compared to the QNAP TS-873A-8G, it offers superior CPU power, which benefits media editing and virtualization. However, its diskless design demands additional drives, adding to setup complexity and cost. The dual 10GbE ports and M.2 NVMe slots provide exceptional transfer speeds and caching, turning it into a versatile solution for demanding workflows. Its advanced features, like Docker support and AI integration, come with a steeper learning curve and higher price, making it less suitable for casual users. Overall, this NAS makes the most sense for experienced content creators needing maximum performance and expandability, despite the initial setup effort and cost.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer with dual 10GbE ports
- Advanced AI-powered OS with natural language commands
- Supports online expansion, virtualization, and complex RAID setups
Cons:- Requires purchasing additional drives, increasing initial cost
- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Premium features come with a higher price tag
Best for: Media professionals and content creators needing fast, flexible workflows with AI capabilities
Not ideal for: Casual users or small home users who prefer plug-and-play simplicity or lower upfront costs
- Processor:Intel Core i3-1315U
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Drive Bays:Diskless
- Network Ports:2 x 10GbE
- M.2 NVMe Slots:3
- Operating System:TOS 7 AI OS
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for experienced users prioritizing high performance, AI features, and future scalability, accepting a steeper setup process and cost.”
UGREEN DXP2800 GT NAS for Smart Home Enthusiasts, Creators & Freelancers
The UGREEN DXP2800 GT offers a compelling mix of fast networking, expandable RAM, and large storage capacity, making it ideal for freelancers and smart home users who need reliable, high-speed access to large files. Unlike the QNAP TS-832PX-4G, which is more geared toward technical users, the DXP2800 emphasizes expandability with support for up to 80TB and RAM upgrades up to 64GB, catering well to creators handling large media libraries. Its support for Docker, VMs, and encryption adds versatility, but it requires buyers to purchase drives separately and perform manual setup. The non-ECC RAM and manual configuration may deter those seeking a straightforward, enterprise-grade solution. This NAS makes sense for users who want high capacity and flexibility without needing pre-installed drives or a simplified experience, accepting some setup effort in exchange for long-term growth potential.
Pros:- High-speed 10GbE networking for fast data transfer
- Expandable RAM and storage capacity up to 80TB
- Supports Docker, virtual machines, and encryption for privacy
Cons:- Drives are sold separately, increasing initial costs
- Requires manual setup for applications, which can be complex
- Non-ECC RAM limits enterprise-grade reliability
Best for: Freelancers, creators, and smart home enthusiasts needing expandable storage and high-speed data access
Not ideal for: Beginners or those looking for an out-of-the-box, pre-configured NAS with included drives
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (expandable to 64GB)
- Drive Bays:2 SATA up to 32TB each
- Network Speed:10GbE
- Security:AES, RSA, SSL encryption
- Operating System:UGOS Pro
Our verdict“This NAS suits power users needing flexible, high-capacity storage with advanced features, provided they are comfortable with manual setup and additional purchases.”
Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2 AS6706T – 6 Bay NAS with Intel Quad-Core CPU, 4 M.2 NVMe Slots, Dual 2.5GbE, 8GB DDR4, HDMI, Diskless
The Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2 combines a robust Intel Celeron quad-core processor with flexible hybrid storage options, making it well-suited for media streaming and small business backups. Compared with the QNAP TS-873A-8G, it offers a slightly smaller capacity but includes four NVMe slots for caching, which can significantly boost performance for multimedia workflows. Its dual 2.5GbE ports balance speed with wider compatibility, though it lacks pre-installed drives, requiring additional investment. While the setup can be intricate for newcomers, its hardware transcoding and HDMI port support make it a good choice for those needing direct media output or small-scale virtualization. This NAS is best for users who value flexible storage, media features, and future expansion but are comfortable with a more involved setup process.
Pros:- Quad-core Intel processor handles media and multitasking well
- Four NVMe slots for caching to improve media performance
- Supports 4K media transcoding and HDMI output
Cons:- No included drives, increasing total setup cost
- Setup complexity may challenge less tech-savvy users
- Higher price for added features and expansion options
Best for: Content creators and small business users needing multimedia capabilities and flexible storage
Not ideal for: Home users seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions or those with limited technical experience
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:6
- NVMe Slots:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Media Support:4K transcoding, HDMI
Our verdict“This NAS is a strong choice for users needing media-focused features and flexible storage, assuming they are prepared for a detailed setup process.”
QNAP TS-832PX-4G 8-Bay NAS
The QNAP TS-832PX-4G is designed for users who prioritize network throughput and durability, featuring a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor and multiple Ethernet ports, including 10GbE support. Unlike the other options, it emphasizes network performance with dual 10GbE ports, making it suitable for data centers or small businesses handling large data flows. Its limited pre-installed RAM and no drives mean it’s tailored for users with technical expertise willing to add their own drives and configure settings. While it doesn’t match the multimedia focus of the Asustor Lockerstor or the AI features of the TERRAMASTER, it excels in raw network throughput and reliability for network-heavy applications. This makes it ideal for users with existing infrastructure who need a dependable, high-speed NAS for network-intensive tasks.
Pros:- Quad-core ARM processor offers solid performance
- Multiple Ethernet ports including 10GbE for high-speed networking
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB for enhanced multitasking
Cons:- No pre-installed drives, requiring additional purchase and setup
- Limited storage capacity without drives included
- Requires technical knowledge for configuration and management
Best for: Small businesses or enterprise environments needing robust network performance and reliability
Not ideal for: Home or media-centric users who want out-of-the-box multimedia features or simple setup
- Processor:AnnapurnaLabs Alpine AL324
- RAM:4 GB DDR4 (expandable to 16 GB)
- Bays:8
- Ethernet Ports:2 x 10GbE, 2 x 2.5GbE
- Form Factor:Diskless
- Drive Interface:SATA 6Gb/s
Our verdict“This NAS is best for users with demanding network needs and technical expertise, prioritizing connectivity over multimedia or user-friendliness.”
QNAP TS-873A-8G 8-Bay NAS
The QNAP TS-873A-8G offers a compelling mix of power and expandability, featuring a quad-core AMD Ryzen V1500B processor and extensive connectivity options, including dual 2.5GbE ports. It surpasses some competitors like the Asustor Lockerstor in raw processing and overall versatility, making it a favorite for demanding applications like virtualization, large backups, and media streaming. Its ability to support up to 64GB of RAM provides future-proofing, but it does not come with drives, which might be a drawback for those seeking an all-in-one out-of-the-box solution. Its price is higher, reflecting its performance potential. This NAS is best for users who want a powerful, expandable device capable of handling multiple intensive tasks, accepting the need for additional drives and a more involved setup process.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen processor for demanding tasks
- Upgradeable RAM up to 64GB for future expansion
- Multiple USB and high-speed Ethernet ports for versatile connectivity
Cons:- No included drives, increasing initial costs
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for casual users
- Setup complexity due to extensive features
Best for: Power users and small businesses seeking high performance, expandability, and multi-tasking capabilities
Not ideal for: Entry-level users or those preferring a plug-and-play experience with included drives
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded V1500B
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (max 64GB)
- Bays:8
- Ethernet:2 x 2.5GbE
- USB Ports:3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Storage:Up to 64GB RAM + large drives
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for tech-savvy users requiring high-performance, expandable storage, and multitasking capabilities, despite its higher cost and setup effort.”
QNAP TS-855X-8G-US 8-Bay NAS
The QNAP TS-855X-8G-US stands out for its robust networking capabilities and extensive expandability, making it ideal for large-scale environments that demand fast data transfers. Its 10Gbase-T port offers a significant advantage over the TERRAMASTER F6-424, which relies solely on dual 2.5G ports, but this comes with a more complex setup and higher cost. The dual M.2 NVMe slots enable caching, boosting performance for demanding applications. While the Intel Atom C5125 processor provides solid power, it may fall short compared to more advanced CPUs in the Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ for media-heavy tasks. Its multiple PCIe slots support a range of expansion cards, but setup complexity and cost can be barriers for less technical users. Overall, this NAS is best suited for small businesses or tech-savvy enthusiasts who need high-speed, expandable storage and are comfortable with a more involved installation process.
Pros:- High-speed 10G network connectivity for fast data transfers
- Expandable RAM up to 128GB for future-proofing
- Dual M.2 NVMe slots for cache acceleration
- Multiple PCIe expansion options for additional cards
Cons:- Complex setup requiring technical knowledge
- Higher cost, especially with full expansion
Best for: IT professionals and small business owners needing high-speed, expandable network storage with advanced networking features.
Not ideal for: Home users or small-scale users seeking a simple plug-and-play NAS, due to complex setup and higher price.
- Processor:Intel Atom C5125 8-core 2.8GHz
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (expandable to 128GB with ECC support)
- Network Ports:1x 10Gbase-T, 2x 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:Dual M.2 PCIe Gen 3 x4
- Expansion Slots:Dual PCIe Gen 3 x4
- Drive Bays:8
Our verdict“This NAS is perfect for experienced users needing high performance and expandability in a business setting.”
TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS 6-Bay, Intel N95 4-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F6-424 offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability, especially compared to higher-end options like the Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+. Its Intel N95 quad-core CPU and DDR5 memory ensure fast data processing and smooth multitasking, making it suitable for small business backups and file sharing. The dual 2.5G Ethernet ports provide speedy network performance, but it’s worth noting that the diskless design means additional investment in drives. Its RAID support spans multiple configurations, giving flexibility, yet the setup might be complex for users unfamiliar with NAS configurations. The easy-to-install SSD slots enhance performance, but the absence of pre-installed drives could be a hurdle for quick deployment. Overall, this model makes the most sense for those who want reliable, high-speed storage on a budget without sacrificing expandability.
Pros:- Fast CPU with DDR5 memory for efficient multitasking
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for quick network access
- Supports a wide range of RAID configurations
- Easy SSD installation for performance boosting
Cons:- Diskless setup requires additional drives
- Setup complexity can be challenging for novices
Best for: Small to medium business users seeking an affordable, high-performance NAS for backup and file sharing.
Not ideal for: Home users or beginners who prefer an all-in-one, ready-to-go solution, since it requires additional drives and setup knowledge.
- CPU:Intel N95 4-core 3.4GHz (turbo)
- Memory:8GB DDR5 4800MHz (upgradable to 32GB)
- Number of Bays:6
- Ethernet Ports:Dual 2.5G
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 NVMe
- RAID Support:RAID 0/1/5/6/10/JBOD/Single
Our verdict“This NAS offers a high-performance, budget-friendly option for small businesses willing to handle setup complexity.”
8 Bay NAS Case Supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX Motherboards with Dual-Chamber Design
This NAS case prioritizes flexibility and extensive storage capacity, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts who want to assemble a custom NAS. Its hot-swappable 8-bay design and support for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards provide a level of customization that pre-built solutions lack. The case’s dual-chamber design enhances cooling, but its size may be a concern for those with limited space. While the included accessories simplify assembly, installing a compatible power supply and motherboard can be complex for beginners. The support for multiple fan mounts keeps temperatures in check during heavy loads, but the need for additional components and assembly effort makes this a choice for experienced builders rather than casual users. Overall, this case is ideal for those who want full control over their NAS hardware and are comfortable with DIY assembly.
Pros:- Supports 8 hot-swappable HDD bays and 2 SSD slots for high capacity
- Compatible with Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards for customization
- Good cooling options with multiple fan mounts
- All necessary accessories included for DIY assembly
Cons:- Size may be large for small or cluttered spaces
- Assembly can be challenging for beginners
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want to build a custom NAS tailored to their specific needs.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a ready-to-use NAS with minimal setup, due to assembly complexity and size.
- Storage Capacity:8 HDD bays + 2 SSD slots
- Motherboard Compatibility:Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX
- Fan Mounts:4×120mm
- Dimensions:300mm W x 270mm D x 270mm H
- Material:Galvanized steel and cold-rolled steel
- Power Supply Support:ATX PSU (≤170mm)
Our verdict“This case is best suited for experienced builders wanting to customize their own high-capacity NAS.”
Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ AS6706T v2 6-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 8GB DDR4, 4 M.2 Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server
The Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2+ makes a strong case for media-heavy workflows, especially when compared to the TERRAMASTER F6-424. Its quad-core Intel processor and dual 5GbE ports deliver high-speed throughput, ideal for 4K media streaming and editing. The 4 M.2 SSD slots enable caching that accelerates media access, while the HDMI output allows direct playback on monitors or TVs, a feature absent in most other NAS units. The device supports popular media and editing software like Plex, Adobe Premiere, and DaVinci Resolve, making it a versatile choice for content creators. However, its diskless setup adds extra cost, and the price is higher than standard 8-bay NAS models, which can deter budget-conscious users. This NAS is best for professionals and media enthusiasts who need high performance and multimedia capabilities in a compact form.
Pros:- Dual 5GbE ports for fast network throughput
- Supports 4 M.2 SSD slots for caching and acceleration
- HDMI output for direct media playback
- Optimized for 4K media editing and streaming
Cons:- Diskless configuration requires additional drives
- Higher price point limits accessibility for casual users
- Setup complexity for non-technical users
Best for: Content creators and media professionals requiring high-speed, multimedia-ready NAS with direct playback features.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, budget-friendly NAS for basic backups, as its features and price target a niche market.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Memory:8GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:6
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
- M.2 SSD Slots:4
- HDMI:Yes
Our verdict“This NAS excels for media professionals who need high-speed, multimedia features, and are prepared for a higher investment.”
How We Picked
The products were evaluated based on performance for media streaming, ease of setup, build quality, expandability, and value for money. We prioritized models with reliable hardware, good connectivity options, and proven compatibility with Plex. Devices that offer more flexible storage configurations or additional features like HDMI output and M.2 slots were rated higher. The ranking reflects a balance between high-end features and practical usability, aiming to help different types of buyers find the best fit for their Plex server needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing 8 Bay Nas For Plex Server
When selecting an 8 bay NAS for a Plex server, several factors come into play that go beyond basic specifications. Understanding these considerations helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures your setup meets your streaming demands now and in the future.Performance and Hardware Power
The processor and RAM are critical for smooth Plex streaming, especially with multiple streams or high-resolution content. Look for a NAS with a capable CPU, such as Intel Core or AMD Ryzen options, and at least 8GB of DDR4 or DDR5 RAM for comfortable multitasking. Cheaper models with lower specs may struggle under load, leading to buffering or lag during playback.
Connectivity Options
Fast network interfaces like 2.5GbE or 5GbE can make a significant difference in streaming quality, particularly if multiple users access the server simultaneously. Some models include multi-Gig ports or support link aggregation, which increases bandwidth. Relying solely on 1GbE can bottleneck your network and reduce streaming performance, especially with high-bitrate 4K content.
Storage Flexibility and Expandability
While all these NAS units feature eight bays, consider how easy it is to expand or upgrade storage in the future. Diskless models offer maximum flexibility but require additional investment in drives. Check if the NAS supports SSD caching, M.2 slots, or additional external storage options. These features can improve performance or provide extra space without replacing existing drives.
Ease of Use and Software Compatibility
A user-friendly interface and strong software ecosystem are essential for hassle-free Plex setup and maintenance. Look for models with intuitive management dashboards, comprehensive app stores, and good community support. Some brands, like QNAP and Asustor, offer native Plex apps optimized for their hardware, reducing setup complexity and improving streaming reliability.
Build Quality and Design
Durability, noise levels, and cooling are often overlooked but important factors, especially if your NAS will run 24/7. High-quality materials and efficient cooling solutions prevent overheating and extend device lifespan. Compact or rack-mounted designs might suit specific spaces better, but always consider airflow and noise if your setup is in a living area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM in these NAS devices later?
Most 8 bay NAS units allow RAM upgrades, but the ease of doing so varies. Devices with accessible RAM slots, like QNAP models, make upgrades straightforward, which can improve Plex performance during heavy multitasking. Be sure to check compatibility and maximum supported RAM before purchasing if you plan future upgrades.
Is a diskless NAS a good choice for Plex?
Yes, a diskless NAS provides flexibility to choose your drives and upgrade storage over time. This approach is often more cost-effective initially but requires extra setup effort. You’ll need to purchase drives separately and ensure compatibility with your NAS. For users comfortable with installation and configuration, diskless models are a smart way to tailor storage to your needs.
How important is network connectivity for Plex performance?
Network speed directly impacts streaming quality, especially for high-resolution content or multiple simultaneous streams. Gigabit Ethernet may suffice for casual use, but 2.5GbE or 5GbE interfaces significantly improve performance. Investing in a compatible network switch can help utilize these faster ports fully, reducing buffering and lag during playback.
Should I prioritize a higher-end CPU over more RAM?
Both CPU and RAM matter for Plex performance, but a balanced approach works best. A powerful CPU handles transcoding and multiple streams more efficiently, while ample RAM supports multitasking. For most users, a mid-range CPU paired with 8GB or more RAM provides a good mix of performance and cost-effectiveness, especially if you plan to run additional services besides Plex.
Is HDMI output necessary on a Plex NAS?
Having HDMI can be beneficial if you want to connect your NAS directly to a monitor or TV for local media playback or management. However, for most Plex users, network streaming from a dedicated device like a smart TV, Fire TV, or streaming box is more convenient. HDMI is a plus for those who prefer direct control or media playback without additional devices.
