How many fit
Only 6 of the 32 models checked meet every need here: “Make setup easy”.
6 models fit, out of 32 checkedPicked for one job
Best NAS for a beginner
Top pick
Synology DiskStation DS223j
DS223j narrows the job down to backup, files and photos.
Why it suits this job
- This is a 2-bay storage chassis.
- For networking, the fastest documented path is 1 Gbps.
- The catch
- Memory is locked at 1GB, so apps have little room.
More reasons we picked it
- Nothing documents hardware Plex transcoding for this model.
- You can record from cameras, but the number of licensed channels is determined by the chosen software and plan.
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With the DS223j, the job stays centered on backup, files and photos.
By the numbers
What the data shows
What we found across the NAS devices we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.
Worth knowing
Synology DiskStation DS223j lists 2 bays for drive-bay count, 33% below the 3 bays median.
- Synology DiskStation DS223j
- 2 bays
- Typical (median)
- 3 bays
- Models with this figure
- 18 of 32
Show the facts and the math
How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “Make setup easy”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
How we calculatedThe count covers the main SATA drive bays only. M.2 slots and external expansion units are not included. The median draws on the 18 of 32 models that publish comparable figures.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synology DiskStation DS223j |
|
|
Decision guide
How to choose for this job
DS223j limits the scope of the job to backup, files and photos.
What should drive your decision
Fixed memory of 1GB restricts heavier apps. The unit has two bays, one gigabit port and DSM, and a two-drive mirror can survive the failure of one drive.
Where Synology DiskStation DS223j has the edge
This is a 2-bay unit whose fastest documented network path is 1 Gbps.
If a different model fits better
No processor upgrade makes up for a missing bay. Decide the storage layout and expected growth first.
What this page can’t tell you
- Compatibility for drives shifts over time.
- Real-world transfer speed is shaped by the complete network and drive array.
- What Plex does depends on the specific media format and client.
1 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Synology, DS223j
Synology DiskStation DS223j
This is a 2-bay chassis, and 1 Gbps is the fastest network path documented for it.
Top pick ifkeep family photos safe and back up two computers
Key facts
- Storage comes in a 2-bay chassis.
- For networking, the fastest documented path is 1 Gbps.
The catch
Memory is locked at 1GB, so apps have little room.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Synology DiskStation DS223j
This is a 2-bay storage chassis.
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