If you’re setting up a Plex media server with a 4-bay NAS, choosing the right model can significantly impact your streaming experience and future expandability. For 2026, the field offers a mix of powerful performance, flexibility, and budget-conscious choices. The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT stands out for its high-end multitasking capabilities and robust surveillance integration, making it ideal for creators and small businesses. The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers a compelling balance of power and multimedia support, perfect for media-heavy use cases. Meanwhile, the TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro provides a strong option for small offices needing reliable, speedy network storage. Each of these picks involves tradeoffs—whether in setup complexity, upgrade potential, or drive costs—that are worth considering before making a decision.
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Key Takeaways
- The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT delivers exceptional multitasking and security features but requires more setup effort.
- The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ excels in media transcoding and hybrid storage but has a steeper learning curve for newcomers.
- The TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro offers top-tier performance with DDR5 memory, though it lacks included drives and has limited upgrade options.
- Budget options like the TERRAMASTER F4-425 provide solid performance for home use but may fall short for intensive multitasking.
- Choosing the right NAS depends heavily on your specific needs: media streaming, business use, or a blend of both.
| bay nas for plex | Processor | RAM |
|---|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB |
| Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for En | Intel N100 | 8GB DDR4 |
| TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro NAS 4-B | Core i3-N305 | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 | — |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | Intel x86 quad-core | 4GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay for Creators, Tech Enthusiasts and Office Teams
The UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT stands out for its robust AMD Ryzen Embedded processor, which delivers high-performance multitasking suitable for demanding Plex streams and simultaneous workloads. Its support for up to 144TB of storage, expandable RAM, and dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation make it a top choice for creators and small teams needing speed and reliability. However, its setup complexity and the need for manual configuration for Plex via Docker can be hurdles for less experienced users. The system’s surveillance features and virtualization support add extra value, but it requires a more involved initial setup.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen embedded CPU for multitasking
- Expandable storage up to 144TB with NVMe support
- Dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation for fast network access
- Built-in surveillance management and virtualization options
Cons:- Drives not included, additional purchase needed
- Pre-installed RAM is non-ECC, upgrade requires compatible modules
- Setup for Plex and other features may require manual configuration
Best for: Power users, small offices, and media creators needing high multitasking and security features
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a simple plug-and-play Plex setup without technical overhead
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- RAM:8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB (4 bays)
- Network:Dual 10GbE ports
- Connectivity:USB 3.0, USB-C, HDMI, SD card
- Supported Cameras:ONVIF/RTSP IP cameras
Our verdict“This model offers unmatched performance and expandability but demands technical familiarity for optimal setup.”
Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for Enthusiasts, Home & Office (Diskless)
The Yxk Zero1 Pro NAS is tailored for users who want a flexible, powerful home or enthusiast NAS. Its Intel N100 processor paired with 8GB DDR4 RAM ensures reliable performance, especially when running Plex, 4K streaming, or Docker containers. Its support for up to 144TB of storage with two M.2 slots adds to its versatility. However, as a diskless setup, users must purchase drives separately, and the system’s manual OS setup can be complex for beginners. Its dual 2.5GbE ports and HDMI output make it well-suited for media-focused tasks.
Pros:- Reliable Intel N100 processor with 8GB RAM
- Supports up to 144TB with flexible drive options
- Full Docker support and third-party OS compatibility
- 4K HDR streaming with HDMI output
Cons:- No drives included, drives sold separately
- Manual OS and Plex setup required
- No pre-installed OS or Plex server
Best for: Enthusiasts, tech-savvy users, and those wanting a customizable Plex server
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a straightforward, ready-to-use solution
- Processor:Intel N100
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:4 SATA 3.0
- M.2 Slots:2 NVMe
- Maximum Storage:144TB
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
Our verdict“Ideal for users comfortable with setup and customization, offering flexibility and power for Plex and beyond.”
TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro NAS 4-Bay, Core i3-N305, 32GB DDR5, Diskless
The TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro offers a compelling mix of performance and reliability. Its 8-core Intel Core i3-N305 processor and 32GB DDR5 RAM deliver fast, efficient handling of Plex transcoding and multi-user workloads. Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and easy SSD installation make it suitable for small to medium businesses that need dependable network storage. The diskless configuration allows users to choose their drives, but the non-upgradable RAM and potential noise levels are tradeoffs that might influence some buyers. This NAS is particularly suited for those prioritizing speed and stability in a business context.
Pros:- High-performance with an 8-core CPU
- Fast DDR5 memory at 32GB
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for high-speed networking
- Easy SSD installation with tool-free design
Cons:- No drives included, users must purchase drives separately
- Limited RAM upgrade options
- Potential noise despite sound-absorbing panels
Best for: Small to medium businesses needing reliable, fast network storage with Plex support
Not ideal for: Home users or those seeking a pre-configured, plug-and-play solution
- Processor:Core i3-N305
- Memory:32GB DDR5
- Storage Bays:4
- Network:Dual 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 NVMe
- Form Factor:Diskless
Our verdict“A strong choice for business environments demanding speed, stability, and expandability, with some setup complexity.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS, Intel Quad-Core, Dual 5GbE, 4GB DDR4, 4 M.2 SSD Slots, HDMI, Plex Media Server
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ combines strong hardware with multimedia features, making it a prime candidate for Plex media servers focused on 4K transcoding. Its quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 processor paired with 4GB DDR4 RAM (expandable to 16GB) supports multiple streams and media processing efficiently. Its hybrid storage support, HDMI output, and dual 5GbE ports make it versatile for media centers and small content creation setups. The main tradeoff lies in its complexity—initial configuration may challenge beginners, and its RAM upgradeability is somewhat limited for future-proofing.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor for multitasking
- Hybrid storage support and 4 M.2 SSD slots
- HDMI output for direct media viewing
- High-speed dual 5GbE ports
Cons:- Diskless setup requires additional drives
- RAM expandable up to only 16GB
- Configuration complexity for beginners
Best for: Media enthusiasts, content creators, and users needing high-quality transcoding
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, out-of-the-box Plex server without technical setup
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- Memory:4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB
- Storage Bays:4
- Network Ports:Dual 5GbE
- M.2 SSD Slots:4
- Video Output:HDMI
Our verdict“Excellent for media-heavy applications, especially streaming and transcoding, but demands technical knowledge for setup.”
TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F4-425 provides a straightforward, affordable solution for home media and data storage. Its quad-core Intel CPU, 4GB RAM, and 2.5GbE ports support 4K transcoding and multi-user access efficiently. Being diskless, it offers flexibility in choosing drives but requires a bit of technical know-how for installation and configuration. Its quiet operation and simple design make it appealing for home environments, but the limited RAM and storage capacity could be restrictive for heavy or expanding Plex libraries.
Pros:- Reliable quad-core Intel processor
- Supports 4K media transcoding
- Quiet operation at 21dB(A)
- Easy HDD installation with tool-free trays
Cons:- No drives included, needs separate purchase
- Limited RAM and upgrade options
- Potentially limited for large media libraries
Best for: Home users seeking affordable, reliable Plex streaming and storage
Not ideal for: Power users or small businesses with demanding workloads
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Number of Bays:4
- Maximum Storage Capacity:120TB
- Network Interface:2.5GbE
- Supported RAID:TRAID / TRAID+
Our verdict“A solid choice for budget-conscious home users who want dependable Plex streaming without complex features.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on models that balance performance, expandability, and features critical for Plex users with a 4-bay NAS. We prioritized processors capable of handling 4K transcoding, ample RAM for multitasking, and flexible storage options. We also evaluated connectivity options, ease of setup, and upgrade potential to ensure each device suits different user profiles—from enthusiasts and content creators to small businesses. Cost considerations and the inclusion of features like HDMI output or surveillance support further guided our choices, aiming to present a well-rounded lineup that addresses diverse Plex streaming needs.
| bay nas for plex | Processor |
|---|---|
| UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT 4-Bay fo | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 |
| Yxk Zero1 Pro 4-Bay NAS for En | Intel N100 |
| TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro NAS 4-B | Core i3-N305 |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | Intel Celeron N5105 |
| TERRAMASTER F4-425 4-Bay NAS I | Intel x86 quad-core |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 4 Bay Nas For Plex
Choosing the best 4-bay NAS for Plex involves balancing performance, expandability, ease of use, and your specific media needs. Since Plex can benefit from powerful CPUs for 4K transcoding and ample RAM for multitasking, it’s crucial to consider these core specs first. Storage flexibility, network speed, and additional features like HDMI output or surveillance support can significantly influence your experience. The following sections highlight what to look for based on your main use cases—whether you’re a media enthusiast, small business, or home user—so you can find the right fit without overpaying for features you don’t need.
Performance and Processing Power
The heart of a Plex NAS is its processor. For smooth 4K transcoding, look for models with quad-core processors or better, such as Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen Embedded. These CPUs handle multiple streams and media conversions simultaneously, preventing buffering or lag. If your library is modest, a less powerful CPU may suffice, but for high-resolution media and multi-user setups, investing in a stronger processor pays off in reliability and future-proofing.
Memory and Expandability
RAM influences multitasking and transcoding capacity. A minimum of 4GB is workable for basic streaming, but 8GB or more offers a smoother experience, especially with multiple streams or larger libraries. Some models support RAM upgrades, which extend their lifespan, while others have fixed memory limits. Consider your future needs—if you plan to grow your media collection or run additional services, prioritize models with expandable RAM.
Storage Flexibility
Look for NAS systems that support both HDDs and SSDs, especially if you want fast caching or media access. M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs can significantly boost performance for transcoding tasks. Also, check maximum supported storage capacity—144TB is common in high-end models and future-proofs your setup. Remember, drives are usually sold separately, so budget accordingly.
Connectivity and Network Speed
Fast network connections are vital for smooth streaming, especially with 4K content. Dual 5GbE or 10GbE ports are ideal, with link aggregation supporting higher speeds. Gigabit Ethernet may suffice for casual use but can bottleneck high-bitrate streams or multiple users. HDMI output is also a plus if you want direct media viewing from the NAS.
Additional Features
Other features like hardware transcoding support, surveillance integrations, or support for third-party OS and Docker containers can add value. Consider your specific needs—if security cameras or media editing are involved, look for models with these capabilities. Ease of setup and user interface are also key for non-technical users.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important hardware component for a Plex NAS?
The processor is the most critical component, as it determines the NAS’s ability to transcode media, handle multiple streams, and run other services smoothly. For 4K Plex streaming, a quad-core CPU with hardware transcoding support is highly recommended to prevent buffering and lag.
How much RAM do I need for Plex on a 4-bay NAS?
For basic streaming, 4GB of RAM might suffice, but for multiple simultaneous streams, 8GB or more ensures smoother performance. Some models allow RAM upgrades, which can be a smart investment if your media library or user count grows over time.
Should I buy drives separately or look for a pre-configured NAS?
Most 4-bay NAS systems are diskless or come without drives, giving you flexibility to choose drives that match your budget and performance needs. Pre-configured models with drives included are more convenient but often less customizable. Consider your technical comfort level and storage needs when deciding.
Is network speed important for Plex streaming?
Yes, especially with 4K content. Dual 5GbE or 10GbE ports with link aggregation can significantly improve transfer speeds, reducing buffering and lag during high-bitrate streams. For casual streaming over gigabit networks, standard Ethernet may be sufficient, but higher speeds future-proof your setup.
Can I run other services besides Plex on these NAS devices?
Many of these models support Docker, third-party OS, and additional applications, allowing you to run services like surveillance, backups, or media editing tools. However, the extent of this support varies, so check each model’s compatibility if you plan to expand your NAS’s role beyond Plex.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 4-bay NAS for Plex depends on your specific use case. Power users and professionals should consider the UGREEN NAS DXP4800 GT for its raw performance and expandability. Enthusiasts and tech-savvy users will appreciate the flexibility of the Yxk Zero1 Pro, especially if customization is key. For small businesses or demanding media workflows, the TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro offers a balance of speed and reliability. Meanwhile, home users seeking an affordable, straightforward Plex server might find the TERRAMASTER F4-425 sufficient. By aligning your needs with these strengths and tradeoffs, you can select a NAS that will serve your media and data needs effectively now and into the future.
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