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The QNAP TVS-h874-i5-32G-US is a robust NAS designed to support heavy multimedia tasks, making it a solid choice for those looking to use Plex for 4K streaming. With a powerful Intel Core i5-12400 processor and 32GB of DDR4 RAM (expandable to 64GB), it offers excellent performance for transcoding media files in real-time, supporting smooth playback of 4K content.
One of the standout features is its dual M.2 PCIe Gen 4 slots, which allow users to add SSDs for enhanced speed and performance, significantly improving file access times and overall responsiveness. The NAS also provides dual 2.5GbE ports, which enable fast network connectivity, making file transfers and streaming seamless even under heavy load.
The HDMI output (4K @30Hz) is a convenient addition for directly connecting to a display, allowing users to access their media library easily. Additionally, the multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports offer flexible options for connecting external drives or additional devices.
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T is a solid choice if you're looking for a NAS that can handle Plex streaming, including 4K content. Its 2.0 GHz quad-core CPU and 4GB of DDR4 RAM provide decent processing power and memory to support smooth playback and transcoding, which is crucial for streaming high-resolution videos. The 4-bay design allows you to install multiple drives, and the inclusion of two M.2 SSD slots is a nice bonus for faster caching, improving responsiveness and load times. Network-wise, the two built-in 2.5GbE ports give faster data transfer compared to standard gigabit connections, which is helpful if you have a compatible router and need quick access across devices.
The NAS supports a wide range of apps, including media servers, backup tools, and remote access features, making setup for Plex and other uses straightforward. A standout benefit is the free 3-year warranty and the extra IP camera licenses for surveillance, adding value if you want to expand beyond media storage. However, the stock 4GB RAM may limit performance if you plan heavy multitasking or multiple simultaneous 4K transcodes, and upgrading RAM might be necessary for more demanding setups. Also, the device comes diskless, so you'll need to add your own drives.
While the CPU is capable, those wanting the absolute best in 4K transcoding might consider a more powerful processor. This NAS balances good hardware and useful features in a compact, expandable package, fitting well for home or small business users aiming for smooth Plex 4K streaming with room to grow.
The QNAP TS-832PXU-4G is a robust NAS device designed for users looking to stream 4K content through Plex. With its powerful AnnapurnaLabs Alpine AL324 quad-core processor, it’s capable of handling multiple streams and transcoding tasks efficiently, making it a solid choice for media enthusiasts. Its 4GB RAM is adequate for most home uses, and it can be expanded up to 16GB, which is a plus for those needing extra performance for heavier workloads.
One of the standout features is its extensive storage capacity, supporting up to eight 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing you to configure a significant amount of space for your media library. With dual 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports, the network connectivity is impressive, enabling fast data transfer speeds which are crucial for smooth streaming of high-resolution content.
There are a few drawbacks to consider. The device is rackmountable, which might not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a more compact or desktop-friendly option. Additionally, while the initial 4GB RAM is suitable for basic tasks, users who plan to run more intensive applications alongside Plex may find themselves needing to upgrade soon after purchase. The Plex compatibility is solid, but some users have reported occasional hiccups during high-demand transcoding, especially if multiple streams are being handled simultaneously.
For those who are primarily focused on 4K streaming and require a powerful NAS setup, the QNAP TS-832PXU-4G is a strong contender. It’s less ideal for casual users or those who might not need extensive storage capabilities or high-speed connections. If you are serious about your media streaming and want a reliable NAS to support it, this product will serve you well.
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