When it comes to storing data, Apple users have always been a little behind compared to their Windows counterparts. However, with the rise of Network Attached Storage (NAS) drives, things have changed. NAS drives are a cost-effective and convenient solution for storing and accessing files, media, and data for both personal and professional use. In this article, we will explore the best NAS drives for Mac users.
Detailed Discussion on the Best NAS Drives for Mac
1. Synology DS920+
Synology DS920+ is an excellent choice for Mac users, especially those who work on large files or frequently stream media. With its four bays, you can customize your storage space as per your requirements. The NAS drive comes with 4GB DDR4 RAM, which is expandable up to 8GB. Moreover, the Dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots give an added advantage for faster caching and storage.
Key Features:
- Four drive bays
- Can handle up to 64TB of storage
- 4GB DDR4 RAM expandable up to 8GB
- Dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots
- Gigabit Ethernet Port
- Two USB 3.0 ports
2. QNAP TS-453Be
The QNAP TS-453Be is a feature-packed NAS drive equipped with an Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz processor and 4GB RAM (upgradable to 8GB). It offers four bays that can support up to 64TB of storage. The NAS drive is compatible with macOS, and the QNAP’s Qsync app allows automatic file synchronization across all devices. Additionally, it provides full-disk encryption to protect the stored data.
Key Features:
- Four drive bays
- Can handle up to 64TB of storage
- Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5GHz processor
- 4GB RAM (upgradable to 8GB)
- Gigabit Ethernet Port with dual LAN configuration
- One HDMI 2.0 port
3. Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra
Western Digital’s My Cloud EX2 Ultra is a reliable and affordable NAS drive suitable for Mac users. It provides a 1.3GHz dual-core processor and 1GB memory, which delivers smooth and fast performance. It has two drive bays that use RAID configuration (JBOD, RAID 0 or RAID 1) for data redundancy and backup. The NAS is compatible with Apple Time Machine backup, and the My Cloud OS app ensures easy setup and file management.
Key Features:
- Two drive bays
- Can handle up to 32TB of storage
- 1.3GHz dual-core processor
- 1GB memory
- Gigabit Ethernet Port
- Raid Configuration (JBOD, RAID 0, or RAID 1)
Concluding Thoughts on the Best NAS Drives for Mac
Choosing the right NAS drive for Mac computers can be a challenging task. However, by considering the required storage capacity, processing power, memory, and types of files you are working with, you can narrow down the options and make the right choice. Among the best NAS drives for Mac, Synology DS920+, QNAP TS-453Be, and Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra stand out due to their features and performance.
FAQs about the Best NAS Drives for Mac
1. What is a NAS Drive?
A NAS drive is a network-attached storage device that provides centralized storage and data sharing for multiple devices in a network. Instead of storing data on individual devices like computers or phones, a NAS drive allows users to store and access data from a centralized location.
2. Can I use a NAS Drive with my MacBook?
Yes, NAS drives are compatible with all types of computers, including MacBooks. They use standard network protocols like AFP (Appletalk File Protocol) and SMB (Server Message Block), which are supported by macOS. Additionally, you can access the data stored in a NAS drive using Finder on your MacBook.
3. What is RAID configuration on a NAS Drive?
RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) is a configuration option for multiple hard drives in a NAS drive to provide data redundancy and backup. RAID can make data safer by replicating data onto multiple drives and enabling backup to prevent data loss in case any drive fails.
In conclusion, NAS drives are an excellent storage solution for Mac users, providing centralized storage, data sharing, and backup options. The Synology DS920+, QNAP TS-453Be, and Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra are some of the best options for Mac users, considering their features, performance, and specs. By choosing the right NAS drive, you can ensure secure and convenient storage for all your data.
