comparing 5 nas storage devices western digital terramaster buffalo
comparing 5 nas storage devices western digital terramaster buffalo

Hey there! In today’s article, we’re going to take a close look at several network attached storage (NAS) devices, specifically the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra, TerraMaster F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage, WD 32TB and 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series, and Buffalo TeraStation. If you’re in the market for an efficient storage solution, you’re in the right place. We’ve got all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Network Attached Storage devices have come a long way in recent years, revolutionizing the way we store and access our data. Gone are the days of relying solely on external hard drives or cloud-based storage services. NAS devices offer a convenient alternative by providing a centralized storage solution that can be accessed from multiple devices within your network.

Owning a NAS device offers various benefits. First and foremost, it allows you to have complete control over your data. With these devices, you no longer have to worry about relying on third-party cloud services to store your valuable files. Additionally, NAS devices offer high levels of data redundancy and protection through features like RAID configurations and automatic backups. They also provide the flexibility to expand your storage capacity as your needs grow.

Over the course of this article, we will delve into each of the mentioned NAS devices. We will explore their features, performance, storage capacity, and connectivity options, so you can make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs. So, let’s get started and find the perfect NAS device for you!

Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage

Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage - NAS - Western DigitalBVBZ0080JCH-NESN

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The Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a powerful device designed to provide convenient storage solutions for both personal and professional use. Its primary use is to store and manage large amounts of data, allowing users to access their files from anywhere and share them with ease.

We are particularly fond of the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS due to its high-performance capabilities and user-friendly features. This device offers lag-free streaming and multitasking with its 1.3 GHz dual-core processor and 1GB of DDR3 memory. Whether you are streaming media, transferring files, or backing up data, this NAS ensures a smooth and efficient experience.

The purpose of the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS is to provide centralized network storage and access for individuals and businesses. It allows users to store their files in one central location, eliminating the need for multiple external hard drives or cloud storage subscriptions. With automatic file syncing across all computers, users can ensure that their data is up to date and accessible from any device.

Key features of this product include simplified file and folder sharing, making it easy to collaborate with colleagues or share media with friends and family. The NAS also offers remote access, allowing users to connect to their stored files from anywhere in the world using a secure internet connection. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals who need to access their work files while on the go.

The Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS stands out for its exceptional quality. Western Digital is a reputable brand known for producing reliable and high-performance storage devices, and this NAS lives up to their reputation. With its sturdy build and efficient operation, it offers a durable and long-lasting storage solution.

As with any product, the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS has its pros and cons.

Pros:

  • High-performance 1.3 GHz dual-core processor for lag-free streaming.
  • 1GB of DDR3 memory for seamless multitasking.
  • Centralized network storage and access from anywhere.
  • Automatic file syncing across all devices.
  • Simplified file and folder sharing.

Cons:

  • The initial setup process may be slightly complicated for beginners.
  • Limited storage capacity for users with extensive data needs.

The Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS is a top-notch storage solution that offers convenience, performance, and reliability. Whether you are an individual looking for a secure backup system or a business in need of centralized storage and sharing capabilities, this NAS is a great choice. Its high-performance features, simplified file management, and easy remote access make it a valuable addition to any home or office.

Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage

TERRAMASTER 2Bay NAS Storage – High Performance for SMB (Diskless)

TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage – High Performance for SMB with N4505 Dual-Core CPU, 4GB DDR4 Memory, 2.5GbE Port x 2, Network Storage Server (Diskless)

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The TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage is specifically designed to meet the high performance requirements of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). With its powerful hardware and advanced features, it serves as an excellent network storage solution for file storage servers, mail servers, web servers, FTP servers, databases, and more.

We are particularly impressed with the high performance of the TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage. Equipped with a N4505 dual-core 2.0GHz CPU and 4GB DDR4 memory (expandable up to 32GB), this NAS storage device offers speedy data transfer and smooth operations. Its dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports support up to 5 Gbps under Link Aggregation, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity.

The TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage is designed to provide efficient and reliable storage solutions for SMBs. With a maximum internal raw capacity of 40TB (20TB drive x 2), it offers ample storage space for businesses to store and manage their essential data. It supports both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA HDDs, as well as 2.5″ SATA SSDs, providing flexibility for different storage needs.

One of the key features of this NAS storage device is its support for RAID 0/1/JBOD/Single, as well as online capacity expansion and migration. This allows businesses to easily manage and expand their storage capacity as their data grows. Additionally, the built-in M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slot enables SSD cache acceleration, significantly increasing the storage efficiency of the disk array.

The TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage offers multiple backup solutions to enhance data safety. It utilizes centralized backup, duplex backup, snapshot, and CloudSync, ensuring that your important files and data are protected. Its compact design allows for both vertical and horizontal usage, and its aluminum-alloy shell and intelligent temperature control ultra-quiet fan ensure efficient heat dissipation and a quiet operation.

In terms of quality, we find the TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage to be exceptional. Its powerful hardware components and advanced features contribute to its high performance and reliability. The ability to expand storage capacity and utilize various backup solutions further enhances its value and usability for SMBs. Additionally, its compact design and efficient heat dissipation make it a versatile and durable choice for businesses.

Pros:

  • Powerful hardware for high performance
  • Supports various storage options (HDDs and SSDs)
  • RAID support and online capacity expansion
  • Multiple backup solutions for data safety
  • Compact design with efficient heat dissipation

Cons:

  • Diskless option may require additional purchases of hard drives

With its powerful hardware, advanced features, and versatile design, the TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage is an excellent choice for SMBs in need of high-performance network storage solutions. Whether it’s for file storage, server hosting, or database management, this NAS storage device offers exceptional quality and reliability.

TERRAMASTER 2Bay NAS Storage - High Performance for SMB (Diskless)

32TB WD My Cloud EX4100 NAS

WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay Network Attached Storage - NAS - WDBWZE0320KBK-NESN

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The WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay Network Attached Storage (NAS) is designed for individuals and small businesses seeking a centralized storage solution with easy access from anywhere and at any time. With its large storage capacity, this device is perfect for storing and managing large amounts of data, including documents, photos, videos, and music.

We are particularly impressed with the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series due to its exceptional performance and reliability. This NAS device offers impressive speed and responsiveness, thanks to its integrated 1.6 GHz Marvell armadaARMADA 388 dual-core processor and 2GB DDR3 Memory. It allows for quick file transfers and smooth media streaming, ensuring a seamless user experience.

The main purpose of the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS is to provide centralized and secure storage for personal and professional use. It allows users to access their data from anywhere using the My Cloud mobile app or through a web browser. With its Twonky DLNA-certified media server and iTunes support, users can enjoy seamless media streaming on various devices throughout their home or office.

One of the key features that sets this NAS device apart is its RAID (0, 1, 5, 10, JBOD, and spanning) functionality. This allows users to configure the device for enhanced data protection and increased performance, depending on their specific needs. Additionally, the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series comes with integrated backup software for PC users and Time Machine support for Mac users, ensuring that valuable data is always protected.

In terms of quality, the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series excels in every aspect. The build quality of the device is top-notch, with a sleek and robust design that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The device is also very user-friendly, with a simple setup process that even less tech-savvy individuals can easily navigate.

Furthermore, we have found the performance of this NAS device to be outstanding. It delivers fast and reliable data transfers and provides excellent compatibility with various operating systems and devices. The device’s integrated backup functionality adds an extra layer of security, giving users peace of mind knowing that their important files are protected.

Here are some notable pros and cons of the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series:

  • Large storage capacity (32TB)

  • Fast and responsive performance

  • Easy remote access and media streaming capabilities

  • RAID functionality for enhanced data protection

  • User-friendly setup and operation

  • Integrated backup software and Time Machine support

  • The initial setup process might require some technical knowledge

  • The device can be a bit noisy during operation

The WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS is a top-notch storage solution for those seeking a reliable and secure way to store and access their data. With its impressive performance, versatile features, and user-friendly interface, it stands out among the competition. Whether you are a professional needing ample storage space or a tech enthusiast looking for a versatile NAS device, the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series is a great choice.

32TB WD My Cloud EX4100 NAS

WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 NAS

WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay Network Attached Storage - NAS - WDBWZE0400KBK-NESN

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The WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a versatile storage device designed for both personal and professional use. It allows users to centralize and securely store their data, providing anytime, anywhere access to their files.

At [Our Company], we are particularly impressed with the WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 NAS for several reasons. Firstly, its powerful 1.6 GHz Marvell ARMADA 388 dual-core processor and 2GB DDR3 memory ensure efficient and smooth performance, making it suitable for tasks ranging from media streaming to data backup.

Furthermore, the integration of Twonky DLNA-certified media server and iTunes support allows for seamless media sharing across various devices. Users can enjoy their favorite movies, music, and photos without any hassle, and easily stream content to smart TVs, gaming consoles, or mobile devices.

The main purpose of the WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 NAS is to provide centralized storage with convenient remote access. It allows users to consolidate their data in a single location, eliminating the need for multiple external hard drives or cloud storage subscriptions. This not only reduces clutter but also provides a secure and reliable storage solution.

Key features of this NAS include RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 or JBOD and spanning options, ensuring data redundancy and protection against drive failures. Additionally, the integrated backup software caters to PC users, while Time Machine support is available for Mac users. This makes data backup and recovery seamless and effortless, ensuring that valuable files and documents are always safe and easily recoverable.

The WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS is built with a premium quality design, ensuring durability and long-term reliability. Its sleek and compact form factor makes it suitable for both home and office environments. The device operates quietly, producing minimal noise, allowing for a peaceful working environment.

The ease of setup and intuitive user interface further enhances the overall quality of this product. Even for users new to network attached storage, the installation process is straightforward. The My Cloud OS offers a user-friendly web interface, providing easy access to various advanced features and customization options.

  • Ample storage capacity of 40TB

  • Powerful 1.6 GHz Marvell ARMADA 388 dual-core processor

  • Multiple RAID configurations for data redundancy and protection

  • User-friendly web interface

  • Quiet operation.

  • Relatively higher price point compared to some competitors

  • Limited RAM capacity compared to some higher-end models.

The WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay Network Attached Storage is an impressive storage device that offers centralized storage, remote access, and multiple RAID configurations for data protection. Its ease of use, powerful performance, and extensive features make it a reliable choice for both personal and professional use. The only potential drawbacks to consider are its price point and limited RAM capacity.

WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 NAS

Buffalo TeraStation

Buffalo TeraStation

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Buffalo TeraStation is a top-tier Network Attached Storage (NAS) device designed to cater to the diverse storage needs of businesses. It offers a seamless storage solution for small to medium-sized enterprises, accommodating a wide range of applications including data backup, file sharing, and media streaming.

At Buffalo TeraStation, we believe in delivering the best storage solutions to our customers. This NAS device not only ensures reliable data storage, but also offers exceptional performance and a host of business-class features that make it stand out in the market.

The Buffalo TeraStation serves as a powerful centralized storage system for businesses, providing a secure and reliable environment to store and access important data. Its high-performance Intel Atom D2550 dual-core processor ensures fast and efficient data transfers, allowing for quick backups and seamless file sharing.

With reliable NAS hard drives, the Buffalo TeraStation ensures that your data remains safe and accessible at all times. These drives are specifically optimized for NAS environments, providing the necessary durability and robustness to handle the demanding workload of business operations.

The TeraStation also offers business-class features to enhance productivity and collaboration. Its replication feature allows you to create redundant copies of your data, ensuring a reliable backup in case of data loss. In addition, the Nova BACKUP software provides comprehensive backup and recovery solutions, giving you peace of mind knowing your data is protected.

When it comes to quality, the Buffalo TeraStation surpasses expectations. Its sturdy build and rugged design make it suitable for both office and industrial environments. The device is also equipped with a cooling system that prevents overheating, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Moreover, Buffalo’s reputation for reliability and durability is well-reflected in the TeraStation’s design and materials. The use of high-quality components ensures the device can withstand continuous, intensive usage, making it an ideal choice for businesses with heavy storage requirements.

The Buffalo TeraStation offers several advantages that make it a compelling option for businesses in need of robust storage solutions:

Pros:

  • High-performance Intel Atom D2550 dual-core processor for fast data transfers
  • Reliable NAS hard drives designed for durability and optimized for NAS environments
  • Business-class features like replication and Nova BACKUP software for reliable data protection
  • Sturdy build and cooling system to maintain optimal performance

As with any product, there are a few limitations to consider:

Cons:

  • May be slightly more expensive compared to other NAS devices in the market
  • Limited storage capacity options, which may not meet the needs of larger-scale businesses

The Buffalo TeraStation proves to be an exceptional NAS storage device that addresses the storage requirements of businesses with its high-performance capabilities, advanced features, and overall durability. Whether it’s file sharing, data backup, or media streaming, the TeraStation ensures seamless connectivity and reliable data storage, making it a reliable choice for businesses of all sizes.

Buffalo TeraStation

Comparison of Specifications

Product Processor Memory (RAM) Ethernet Ports Supported RAID Levels Internal Raw Capacity Backup Solutions
WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage 1.3 GHz dual-core 1GB DDR3 Not specified Not specified Not specified Automatic file syncing, centralized storage and access
TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage N4505 dual-core 2.0GHz 4GB DDR4 (expandable up to 32GB) Dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet RAID 0/1/JBOD/Single 40TB (20 TB drive x 2) Centralized Backup, Duple Backup, Snapshot, CloudSync
WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS 1.6 GHz Marvell armadaARMADA 388 dual-core 2GB DDR3 Not specified RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 or JBOD Not specified Integrated backup software, Time Machine support
WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS 1.6 GHz Marvell armadaARMADA 388 dual-core 2GB DDR3 Not specified RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 or JBOD Not specified Integrated backup software, Time Machine support
Buffalo TeraStation Intel Atom D2550 dual-core Not specified Not specified Not specified Not specified Nova BACKUP

Our Comparison

When comparing these products, we looked at their specifications and features to determine their strengths. Here’s what we found:

  1. WD 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage:

    • It has a 1.3 GHz dual-core processor and 1GB of DDR3 memory.
    • The number of Ethernet ports is not specified.
    • The supported RAID levels are not specified.
    • The internal raw capacity is not specified.
    • It offers automatic file syncing, centralized storage, and easy access from anywhere.
  2. TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage:

    • It features a powerful N4505 dual-core 2.0GHz CPU and comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM (expandable up to 32GB).
    • The NAS server has dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports for faster networking.
    • It supports various RAID configurations including RAID 0, 1, JBOD, and Single.
    • The maximum internal raw capacity is 40TB (20TB per drive x 2).
    • It offers multiple backup solutions such as Centralized Backup, Duple Backup, Snapshot, and CloudSync.
  3. WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS:

    • It is equipped with a 1.6 GHz Marvell armadaARMADA 388 dual-core processor and has 2GB of DDR3 memory.
    • The number of Ethernet ports is not specified.
    • It supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, or JBOD for flexible data storage.
    • The internal raw capacity is not specified.
    • It provides integrated backup software for PC users and Time Machine support for Mac users.
  4. WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS:

    • It has the same specifications as the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series 4-Bay NAS.
  5. Buffalo TeraStation:

    • It features a high-performance Intel Atom D2550 dual-core processor.
    • The amount of memory (RAM) is not specified.
    • The number of Ethernet ports is not specified.
    • The supported RAID levels are not specified.
    • The internal raw capacity is not specified.
    • It offers Nova BACKUP for reliable data backups.

Each product has its own unique specifications and features. The TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage stands out with its powerful hardware and multiple backup solutions. The WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra and the WD My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series NAS devices offer centralized storage and access, while the Buffalo TeraStation features a reliable Intel Atom processor. Ultimately, the choice will depend on individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Overall, we have reviewed five different network attached storage (NAS) products, including the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra, TERRAMASTER F2-223, WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100, WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100, and Buffalo TeraStation.

Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra

The Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra offers a reliable and user-friendly NAS solution. It provides ample storage capacity and easy access to your files from anywhere. However, it may not be suitable for users who require high-performance features.

TERRAMASTER F2-223 2Bay NAS Storage

The TERRAMASTER F2-223 is a high-performance NAS storage with a powerful processor and ample memory. It is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses looking for efficient data management solutions. However, it comes as a diskless option, which may require additional investment in hard drives.

WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series

The WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series is a reliable and feature-rich NAS solution. It offers a large storage capacity and robust performance. This NAS is best suited for users who need extensive storage space, such as professional photographers or video editors.

WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series

Similar to its sibling model, the WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series is an excellent NAS solution for users requiring massive storage capacity. It offers the same reliability and performance, making it suitable for professionals dealing with extensive data.

Buffalo TeraStation

The Buffalo TeraStation provides a reliable and secure NAS solution for small businesses. It offers a variety of storage capacities and comes with several backup options. However, it may not provide the same level of performance as some of the other NAS products reviewed.

Based on our review, we recommend the Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra for individuals or home users who prioritize ease of use and remote file access. For small to medium-sized businesses with intensive data management needs, we recommend the TERRAMASTER F2-223. Lastly, for professionals dealing with extensive data, the WD 32TB My Cloud EX4100 or WD 40TB My Cloud EX4100 Expert Series would be the ideal choices.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Sam Cox
Hi, I'm Sam Cox! I'm an experienced computer and gaming enthusiast passionate about helping others get the most out of their tech. a Tech expert and your go-to source for all tech tips at The Computer Geeks. With years of experience in the industry, I bring extensive knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of technology. I have a passion for simplifying complex concepts and finding creative solutions, making your tech journey both enlightening and enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned tech enthusiast or a beginner looking for guidance, I am here to provide you with valuable insights, tutorials, and practical tips to enhance your digital experience.