Choosing the best 8 bay NAS for office backups involves balancing capacity, performance, and ease of use. The Synology DiskStation DS1823xs+ stands out as the top overall pick thanks to its robust hardware and easy management features. For those prioritizing speed and connectivity, the UGREEN NAS DXP8800 Plus offers dual 10GbE ports and high-performance specs. Meanwhile, the TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus is ideal for environments demanding fast SSD storage and quiet operation. Each option presents tradeoffs in price, complexity, or expandability. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help find the right fit for your office needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks vary between high-performance SSD configurations and flexible diskless setups, depending on storage needs.
- Connectivity options like 10GbE ports significantly impact NAS responsiveness in busy office environments.
- Build quality and quiet operation are often overlooked but crucial for office settings to maintain a professional atmosphere.
- Ease of setup and management features often correlate with higher-priced models, but some budget options still offer solid usability.
- Expandable and future-proof designs are a key factor for offices planning long-term data growth.
| TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS – 8-Bay All SSD Storage, Core i3-8 Core, 16GB DDR5, 10GbE, Quiet, Compact, Diskless |  | Best Overall for Compact High-Performance SSD Storage | Processor: Intel Core i3-N305 8-core, up to 3.4GHz | Memory: 16GB DDR5 4800MHz | Storage Capacity: Supports 8 NVMe SSDs up to 8TB each | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NAS |  | Best Value for Scalable Data Management | Model: DS925+ | Drive Bays: 4 (diskless), expandable to 9 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 8-Bay DiskStation DS1823xs+ (Diskless) |  | Best for High-Availability and Scalability | Model: DS1823xs+ | Drive Bays: 8, expandable to 18 | Protection Features: Backup, replication, recovery | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Pro 6-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel i5 1235U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, Dual 10GbE, 2x M.2 NVMe, 8K HDMI |  | Best for High-Speed Data and Media Streaming | Processor: Intel i5 1235U, 10-Core | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Storage: Supports up to 196TB with drives | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay Desktop NAS, Intel i3 12th Gen, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE LAN, 2 M.2 NVMe, 4K HDMI |  | Best for Secure, Multi-Gigabit Network Storage | Processor: Intel i3 12th Gen 6-Core | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Storage Capacity: Supports up to 208TB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 8 AS6508T 8-Bay NAS Network Storage Enclosure |  | Best Overall for Power Users and Large Office Storage | CPU: Intel Atom Quad core C3538 2.1 GHz | RAM: 8GB DDR4 (expandable up to 64GB) | Storage Capacity: Up to 144TB (18TB x 8 drives) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN NAS DXP8800 Plus 8-Bay Desktop NASync, Intel i5 1235U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 2x 10GbE, M.2 NVMe, 8K HDMI, TBT4, Diskless |  | Best for Demanding Business Environments with Multimedia Needs | Processor: Intel i5 1235U 10-Core | RAM: 8GB DDR5 | Storage: Built-in 128GB SSD, supports up to 256TB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS – 8-Bay All SSD Storage, Core i3-8 Core, 16GB DDR5, 10GbE, Quiet, Compact, Diskless
The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus stands out for delivering a high-performance, all-SSD solution in a remarkably compact form factor, making it ideal for small offices with limited space. Its 8-core Intel Core i3 processor and 16GB DDR5 RAM ensure fast data handling, especially for workloads demanding quick access and transfer speeds. Unlike larger NAS units such as the Synology DS1823xs+, this model sacrifices expandability for size and noise reduction, with support solely for NVMe SSDs—meaning users need to factor in the cost of drives separately. The 10GbE port guarantees speedy data transfers, but the diskless design requires buyers to purchase compatible SSDs, which can be costly. This NAS is best suited for users prioritizing performance and minimal noise over traditional spinning disks or extensive storage capacity.Pros:- Compact, space-saving design perfect for small offices
- Supports up to 8 NVMe SSDs for rapid access and transfer speeds
- Quiet operation with heat sinks and convection cooling
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of SSDs, adding to overall cost
- Diskless setup means no included drives, which could delay deployment
Best for: Small businesses or professionals who need high-speed, silent storage in tight spaces and already own SSDs or plan to invest in SSDs separately.
Not ideal for: Users seeking large, expandable storage with traditional HDDs or those preferring an all-in-one solution with included drives.
- Processor:Intel Core i3-N305 8-core, up to 3.4GHz
- Memory:16GB DDR5 4800MHz
- Storage Capacity:Supports 8 NVMe SSDs up to 8TB each
- Network:10GbE Ethernet port
- Form Factor:Palm-sized, compact NAS
- Cooling:Heat sinks with convection cooling
Bottom line: This NAS makes the most sense for tech-savvy users needing high-speed SSD storage in a compact, quiet package.
Synology DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) 4-Bay NAS
The Synology DS925+ offers versatile storage with expandability, making it an attractive choice for growing offices that need more than basic backups. Its dual 2.5GbE ports deliver fast network speeds, outperforming single-port models like the UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Pro in raw transfer capacity. The ability to expand to nine drives adds flexibility, but this comes with the tradeoff of increased complexity—users must be comfortable managing expansion units and configuration. Its user-friendly DiskStation Manager software provides powerful tools for backup, virtualization, and surveillance, yet the setup can be daunting for less experienced users. This device is ideal for teams requiring a scalable, feature-rich NAS that balances performance with manageability.Pros:- Supports high-speed data transfer with dual 2.5GbE ports
- Expandable storage up to nine drives with an additional unit
- Rich software ecosystem for backup, virtualization, and surveillance
Cons:- Requires technical expertise for setup and expansion
- No included drives, increasing initial investment
Best for: Small to medium-sized offices needing scalable, feature-packed storage with user-friendly management tools.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with minimal technical skills who prefer plug-and-play solutions without expansion complexity.
- Model:DS925+
- Drive Bays:4 (diskless), expandable to 9
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Cache Slots:2 M.2 NVMe
- Dimensions:8.78 x 7.83 x 6.54 inches
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: Ideal for offices seeking scalable and versatile NAS solutions with advanced management features, despite added complexity.
Synology 8-Bay DiskStation DS1823xs+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS1823xs+ is built for enterprise-level reliability, offering high availability and extensive expansion options. Its 8 bays can be expanded to 18 using DX517 units, making it suitable for large-scale office backups and data protection. Compared to smaller models like the DS925+, this NAS emphasizes uptime and data integrity, featuring hot-swappable drives and high-availability clustering. The setup and configuration are more complex, requiring technical expertise, and it does not come with drives, adding to initial costs. This model is best for organizations that prioritize maximum uptime and future-proof scalability over simplicity.Pros:- Expandable to 18 bays with optional units
- High-availability architecture for maximum uptime
- Hot-swappable drives for easy maintenance
Cons:- Requires additional expansion units for full capacity
- Complex setup and higher initial cost
Best for: Medium to large offices with critical data that need high-availability, scalability, and robust protection.
Not ideal for: Small offices or users seeking an inexpensive, straightforward backup solution with minimal setup.
- Model:DS1823xs+
- Drive Bays:8, expandable to 18
- Protection Features:Backup, replication, recovery
- High Availability:Yes
- Hot-swappable Drives:Yes
- Type:Diskless NAS
Bottom line: Designed for mission-critical environments where uptime and scalability trump simplicity and initial cost.
UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Pro 6-Bay Desktop NAS with Intel i5 1235U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, Dual 10GbE, 2x M.2 NVMe, 8K HDMI
The UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Pro is a powerful desktop NAS tailored for users demanding fast network speeds and media capabilities. Its dual 10GbE ports outpace many competitors like the UGREEN DXP6800 Plus, making it suitable for high-bandwidth tasks such as 8K streaming or large data transfers. The inclusion of an Intel i5 processor and 128GB SSD ensures smooth operation under heavy workloads. The built-in HDMI port enables direct media output, ideal for multimedia applications. However, the storage drives are sold separately, which can substantially increase the total cost. This NAS is best for media professionals or busy offices needing robust performance and media support in a desktop form factor.Pros:- Dual 10GbE ports for blazing-fast data transfers
- Supports up to 196TB of storage with flexible RAID options
- Powerful Intel i5 CPU and 128GB SSD for performance
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of hard drives
- Setup may be complex for some users
Best for: Media-heavy offices or professional users needing fast, reliable storage with media streaming capabilities.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users or those seeking an all-in-one solution with included drives and minimal setup complexity.
- Processor:Intel i5 1235U, 10-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Storage:Supports up to 196TB with drives
- Network:2 x 10GbE ports
- Video Output:8K HDMI
- Form Factor:Desktop, Diskless
Bottom line: This NAS excels for media professionals or offices requiring high-speed data handling and multimedia output, despite added setup complexity and costs.
UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus 6-Bay Desktop NAS, Intel i3 12th Gen, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 10GbE & 2.5GbE LAN, 2 M.2 NVMe, 4K HDMI
The UGREEN NAS DXP6800 Plus is a versatile choice for offices needing robust network capabilities and substantial storage. Its combination of 10GbE and 2.5GbE ports allows flexible, high-speed networking, outperforming models with only one Ethernet port, like the DXP6800 Pro. The 8GB DDR5 RAM and support for up to 208TB of storage make it suitable for secure backups and media streaming across multiple devices. The inclusion of dual M.2 NVMe slots and 4K HDMI enhances performance and multimedia functionality. The main tradeoff is the need for users to supply their own drives, adding to initial costs, and the setup complexity which might challenge less technical users. This model is best for offices prioritizing high-speed networking and reliable storage with multimedia output.Pros:- Supports high-speed 10GbE and 2.5GbE LAN for fast data sharing
- Supports up to 208TB with flexible RAID configurations
- Includes dual M.2 NVMe slots and 4K HDMI output
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of hard drives
- Setup complexity may be a barrier for some users
Best for: Offices requiring high-speed, multi-device data sharing with advanced networking and media output capabilities.
Not ideal for: Small teams or budget-sensitive users seeking an easy, all-in-one backup solution without extra setup or hardware costs.
- Processor:Intel i3 12th Gen 6-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Storage Capacity:Supports up to 208TB
- Network Ports:1 x 10GbE, 1 x 2.5GbE
- Additional Ports:4K HDMI, 2x M.2 NVMe
- Form Factor:Desktop, Diskless
Bottom line: Best suited for demanding office environments where fast network speeds and multimedia capabilities are priorities, despite the need for technical setup.
Asustor Lockerstor 8 AS6508T 8-Bay NAS Network Storage Enclosure
The Asustor Lockerstor 8 AS6508T stands out for its combination of raw power and expandability, making it ideal for office environments that demand large-scale backups and fast data access. Its quad-core 2.1GHz CPU paired with 8GB DDR4 RAM (expandable to 64GB) provides a robust platform for multitasking and intensive data management, outperforming less capable models like the UGREEN DXP8800 Plus, especially in processing speed. The dual 10Gbps ports deliver high-speed transfers critical for large backups, while the support for up to 144TB of storage offers ample room for extensive data pools. However, its size and weight make it less suitable for cramped setups, and its price point reflects its enterprise-grade features, which might be overkill for smaller offices. This NAS is best suited for IT professionals or businesses needing reliable, high-capacity storage with fast network performance but may be too complex or costly for casual users.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core CPU with extensive RAM support
- Supports up to 144TB of storage for large data pools
- Dual 10Gbps ports for rapid data transfer
- Includes M.2 NVMe slots for caching to boost performance
Cons:- Relatively large and heavy, requiring dedicated space
- Higher price point that may not suit budget-conscious small businesses
- Setup can be technical and intimidating for non-experts
Best for: IT managers or tech-savvy offices requiring large storage capacity and high-speed networking.
Not ideal for: Small startups or home offices with limited space and simpler backup needs, due to its size and complexity.
- CPU:Intel Atom Quad core C3538 2.1 GHz
- RAM:8GB DDR4 (expandable up to 64GB)
- Storage Capacity:Up to 144TB (18TB x 8 drives)
- Drive Compatibility:2.5″ or 3.5″ SATA SSD/HDD
- M.2 NVMe SSD Slots:2
- Network Ports:Dual 10Gbps and 2.5Gbps ports
- Dimensions:14.96″D x 13.39″W x 12.6″H
- Weight:13.64 lbs (6.2 kg)
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This NAS is an excellent choice for large offices or power users needing high capacity and fast networking, despite its size and cost.
UGREEN NAS DXP8800 Plus 8-Bay Desktop NASync, Intel i5 1235U, 8GB DDR5, 128GB SSD, 2x 10GbE, M.2 NVMe, 8K HDMI, TBT4, Diskless
The UGREEN NAS DXP8800 Plus is tailored for offices that require not just large storage but also multimedia and high-performance computing. Its Intel i5 1235U processor with 10 cores offers a significant leap in processing power over the Lockerstor 8, making it suitable for tasks like video editing, virtualization, or large data processing. The inclusion of dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation ensures swift data movement, comparable to the Lockerstor but with more advanced multimedia features like an 8K HDMI output—ideal for creative teams or multimedia needs. Its support for up to 256TB of storage makes it one of the most capacious options in this roundup, but it comes as diskless, requiring additional drives and setup expertise. This setup is best for technically skilled users or teams needing robust performance plus multimedia output, though it might be overkill for purely backup-focused needs.
Pros:- High-performance Intel i5 processor with 10 cores
- Supports up to 256TB of storage, ideal for large data sets
- Dual 10GbE ports with link aggregation for maximum throughput
- 8K HDMI output for multimedia and display applications
Cons:- Requires purchasing drives separately, increasing initial cost
- Complex setup for non-technical users
- Higher price, reflecting enterprise-grade features
Best for: Creative teams, multimedia professionals, or offices requiring large, high-performance storage with media output capabilities.
Not ideal for: Small offices or users seeking a plug-and-play, budget-friendly backup solution, as it demands advanced setup and additional drives.
- Processor:Intel i5 1235U 10-Core
- RAM:8GB DDR5
- Storage:Built-in 128GB SSD, supports up to 256TB
- Network:2x 10GbE ports
- Video Output:8K HDMI
- Expansion Slots:2x TBT4
- Form Factor:Desktop, Diskless
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Material:Metal
Bottom line: This NAS is a top pick for offices that need serious processing power and multimedia capabilities, accepting that it involves more setup complexity and cost.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, expandability, build quality, connectivity options, and ease of use. I prioritized units that are suitable for office environments, balancing reliability with cost. Models with robust hardware and versatile features scored higher, especially those supporting high-speed networking and scalable storage. The ranking reflects a blend of these factors, aiming to recommend options for various office sizes and technical expertise levels. Cost-effectiveness and future-proofing were also key considerations in this selection process.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 8 Bay Nas For Office Backups
When selecting an 8 bay NAS for office backups, it’s important to consider not just current storage needs but also future scalability, network performance, and ease of management. Understanding these factors can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure your investment remains valuable over time.Performance and Hardware Power
Look for models with capable processors and sufficient RAM, especially if you plan to run multiple services or handle large file transfers. High-performance CPUs like Intel i5 or i3 offer a good balance between speed and power efficiency. For heavy workloads, SSD-based NAS units can drastically reduce backup and restore times, but they come at a higher cost and may require more maintenance. Consider your office’s typical data load to choose a hardware level that won’t bottleneck your backups.
Network Connectivity
Fast network ports are essential for office backup NAS units. Models with 10GbE support enable quicker data transfers, especially when backing up large datasets or multiple clients simultaneously. If your network infrastructure doesn’t yet support 10GbE, a NAS with at least 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports can still provide a noticeable performance boost over standard Gigabit Ethernet. Additionally, look for multi-port configurations if network segmentation or load balancing is a priority.
Ease of Use and Management
An intuitive interface and reliable management tools can save hours of setup and troubleshooting. Brands like Synology tend to excel here with user-friendly OS and extensive app ecosystems, making them ideal for less technical staff. Conversely, more advanced users might prefer open-source or customizable options, which could require more technical skill but offer greater flexibility. Always consider the learning curve involved and whether your team has the expertise to maintain the system efficiently.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
Scalability features such as additional drive bays, PCIe slots for expansion cards, or support for external storage can extend the lifespan of your NAS. A diskless configuration offers flexibility to choose drives suited to your budget and performance needs, but ensure the chassis supports future upgrades. Also, consider whether the NAS supports modular expansions or cloud integration for off-site backups, which can be critical for long-term data security.
Price and Total Cost of Ownership
While cutting costs can be tempting, investing in a more capable NAS can reduce long-term costs by avoiding frequent replacements or upgrades. High-end models with enterprise features tend to be more reliable and easier to manage, but they come with a higher upfront price. Conversely, budget options might suffice for smaller or less critical backups but could struggle with heavier workloads or higher data growth. Evaluate your current needs against future growth to find a balance between cost and capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I expand the storage capacity of my 8 bay NAS later?
Many 8 bay NAS units support expansion through additional drive bays, external storage, or cloud integration. Diskless models provide flexibility to choose drives as your data needs grow, but ensure the model supports future expansion options. Some units also support RAID configurations that can be reconfigured or expanded without data loss, but it’s important to plan ahead and verify compatibility before upgrading.
Is a 10GbE port necessary for office backups?
While not strictly necessary, a 10GbE port can significantly speed up backup and restore times in busy office environments with large datasets. If your network infrastructure supports 10GbE, choosing a NAS with this feature will future-proof your setup. However, if your network is limited to Gigabit speeds, a model with 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports can still offer a meaningful performance boost without requiring an immediate network upgrade.
Should I buy a diskless NAS or one with drives included?
Opting for a diskless NAS gives you the flexibility to select drives tailored to your performance and budget, and allows for easier future upgrades. Pre-installed drives simplify setup but limit customization and may be more expensive upfront. For office backups, diskless models are often preferred to control storage quality and capacity, but ensure compatibility and support for your chosen drives before purchase.
How important is noise level in an office NAS?
Noise can be a significant factor if the NAS is placed in a shared or open-plan workspace. Look for models specifically designed for quiet operation, with features like low-noise fans or fanless designs. While enterprise-level units may offer better performance, they can also be louder, so balancing noise levels with hardware capabilities is key for maintaining a comfortable work environment.
What’s the best way to back up data externally from my NAS?
Off-site backups are critical for disaster recovery. Many NAS units support cloud backup options or external drives connected via USB or eSATA. Consider models with built-in cloud sync features or support for external backup devices to create redundant copies of your data. Regularly scheduled external backups can safeguard your office data against hardware failure, theft, or other unforeseen events.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most offices is the Synology DiskStation DS1823xs+, thanks to its balance of performance, ease of management, and expandability. For those prioritizing speed and network capacity, the UGREEN NAS DXP8800 Plus offers excellent connectivity with dual 10GbE ports. Budget-conscious offices or those new to NAS systems might find the TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus a compelling option with high-speed SSDs and quiet operation. Larger or more demanding setups will benefit from models like the Asustor Lockerstor 8 for their scalability and raw power. Ultimately, your choice should align with your current needs and long-term growth plans, ensuring your office data remains protected and accessible.
