NAS in 2025 mostly about Synology but open to others

[phillyman]

Hi All,

I use a Synology 1512+ as my primary NAS. Shockingly it is still chugging along and can stream 4K to my TVs on LAN. It feels like I'm on borrowed time. I have not followed this segment at all in the last couple years. I know the transition to DSM 7 was very controversial and I remember reading that starting this year you have to use overpriced Synology drives on certain models.

Synology is a mature platform and from what I can glean they have pivoted to small enterprise solutions. Also probably because there isn't much need to update hardware as a consumer (see my system).

Do consumers still like Synology hardware/software? Do you like whatever system they now are on? Have you moved to something else like Ugreen (I see lots of ads) or ??? Or have you come up with some custom Apple Solution?

What do I use my system for? It is used as a central media hub for all family members. Backups for all. A secure VPN to access private cloud storage . No heavy lifting. Before somebody tells me it is not a (complete) backup solution. I know, I also have external HDs etc.

Thanks,
Philly

 

[Apple_Robert]

I am pleased with my Synology NAS DS921+ (DSM 7). I have (4) Iron Wolf 20TB drives. It is my Plex server and has been humming right along for the last 4 years. I am thinking about getting a 6 bay Synology NAS to primarily be used as an ongoing backup of the Plex Server. I also have a Synology DS220 that I use for Mac, iPhone backups, and other important files (20TB).

 

[phillyman]

I'm glad to hear that DSM 7 is humming along. Did you mind the upgrade for 6 to 7? I don't remember what all the controversy was but that the pitchforks were out for blood.

I don't like relearning settings and all. I appreciated the ease of use of the Synology system so I've leaned to sticking with it.

Philly

 

[zqbobs]

The breakpoint for me was that Video Station is not supported in v7.2.2, so I’m at 7.1.1. I think the OP statement that Synology is moving on from consumer markets is probably right considering their no third-party HDDs policy. DS920+ with 4x8TB IronWolfs.

 

[Apple_Robert]

I'm glad to hear that DSM 7 is humming along. Did you mind the upgrade for 6 to 7? I don't remember what all the controversy was but that the pitchforks were out for blood.

I don't like relearning settings and all. I appreciated the ease of use of the Synology system so I've leaned to sticking with it.

Philly

I didn't mind the upgrade. I read a lot of warnings and pitchfork type posts ahead and time and determined that most of it was hyperbolic chatter from people who wanted to stay where they were, which they could do. Basically, the same whining we often see on MR. lol

To be honest, I haven't delved into a lot of the DSM offered programs, although I did checkout a few.