Synology DS923+ vs TerraMaster F4-424 Pro
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Synology DS923+ is a 4-bay network-attached storage device designed for home labs and small businesses that need reliable, expandable file storage with built-in backup, media serving, and virtualization capabilities. Running Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, it offers a polished web-based interface for managing storage pools, running Docker containers, hosting Plex-style media libraries, and automating backups from multiple computers on the network. Dual M.2 NVMe slots allow SSD caching to speed up frequently accessed files, and an expansion unit can add five more bays for growing storage needs without replacing the whole system.
The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro is a high-performance four-bay NAS designed for professionals and businesses. It features an Intel Core i3 processor and dual 2.5GbE networking for fast data transfer and reliable connectivity. With its robust hardware and advanced software features, the F4-424 Pro is ideal for demanding applications such as data backup, file sharing, and multimedia streaming.
Around $600 for the diskless enclosure.
- Polished, easy-to-use DSM software
- Reliable and expandable storage
- Strong Docker/virtualization support
- Good community and documentation
- High-performance Intel Core i3 processor
- Dual 2.5GbE networking for fast data transfer
- Supports up to 4 x 3.5" or 2.5" SATA drives
- Advanced software features for data protection and access control
- Premium pricing versus building your own NAS
- Drives sold separately add to cost
- CPU can bottleneck heavy transcoding
- No Wi-Fi connectivity option
- No built-in battery or power backup
- Limited expandability options
What reviewers say
Synology DS923+ Reviews
3.8 (4)Good, not great
Mixed feelings about Synology DS923+ after using it for a while. On the plus side, strong docker/virtualization support. That said, premium pricing versus building your own nas, which held us back from rating it higher.
Does exactly what we need
We've been using Synology DS923+ for a few months now and it's genuinely made a difference. Good community and documentation. One minor gripe: cpu can bottleneck heavy transcoding, but it hasn't been a dealbreaker. Would recommend.
Solid choice
I picked up Synology DS923+ a while back and haven't looked back. Strong Docker/virtualization support. No major complaints so far. Would recommend.
TerraMaster F4-424 Pro Reviews
No reviews yet.
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Synology DS923+ offers a polished, user‑friendly experience with strong Docker support, while the TerraMaster F4‑424 Pro delivers higher raw performance via an Intel i3 CPU and dual 2.5 GbE ports.
Key differences
- •CPU power: DS923+ uses a less powerful CPU that can bottleneck transcoding; F4‑424 Pro uses an Intel Core i3 for higher performance.
- •Network speed: DS923+ has standard 1 GbE; F4‑424 Pro provides dual 2.5 GbE for faster transfers.
- •SSD caching: DS923+ includes dual M.2 NVMe slots for cache; F4‑424 Pro does not list SSD cache slots.
- •Software ecosystem: DS923+ runs Synology DSM with extensive Docker/virtualization support; F4‑424 Pro’s OS is less highlighted for containers.
- •Expandability: DS923+ is marketed as easily expandable with additional bays; F4‑424 Pro notes limited expandability.
Performance
Intel Core i3 and dual 2.5 GbE give F4‑424 Pro higher compute and network throughput than DS923+.
Build quality
Both are metal‑chassis 4‑bay NAS units; no specific quality differences provided.
Connectivity
F4‑424 Pro offers dual 2.5 GbE, USB‑C, USB‑A; DS923+ only standard 1 GbE (Wi‑Fi not listed).
Power & efficiency
DS923+ is noted for being a “premium” but no power specs given; assume lower power draw than higher‑end i3 system.
Compatibility
DS923+ supports Docker, Plex, and broad platform clients (Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android) out of the box.
Price & value
Both listed around $600 for the enclosure; drives sold separately for DS923+ but not specified for TerraMaster.
Warranty & support
TerraMaster lists a 2‑year warranty; Synology warranty not specified.
Choose Synology DS923+ if…
Home‑lab enthusiasts needing easy Docker apps and a polished UI.
Choose TerraMaster F4-424 Pro if…
Small businesses that prioritize raw speed, dual‑2.5 GbE networking, and higher CPU power.
Common questions
Which unit is cheaper overall?
Both enclosures cost about $600; total cost depends on drives, which are sold separately for the DS923+.
Can I run Plex with hardware transcoding on both?
Both support Plex, but DS923+’s CPU may bottleneck heavy transcoding, while F4‑424 Pro’s i3 handles it better.
Do either devices support SSD caching?
Only the Synology DS923+ lists dual M.2 NVMe slots for SSD read/write caching.