Asustor AS5404T 4 Bay NAS Review Intel Quad-Core Power and NVMe SSD Potential

Description

Advantages of the Design and Build

The Asustor AS5404T stands out immediately with its compact and modern design, perfect for someone like me who values both aesthetics and functionality in tech gear. Its 9.06 x 6.85 x 6.69-inch dimensions make it space-efficient, which is critical for my cluttered workspace. While setting it up, I noticed the dedicated thermal vents for M.2 SSDs—not only do they look sleek, but they also serve a practical purpose by efficiently dissipating heat. This ensures that the device remains cool, even during demanding tasks.

The build quality feels premium, with a sturdy chassis that gives confidence in its durability. At just under 5 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around without hassle, though I don’t see myself relocating it frequently. The minimalistic color scheme blends seamlessly into my setup, and I appreciate how the design doesn’t scream for attention yet feels sophisticated. While I am no expert on hardware finishes, the attention to detail here is evident and commendable.

Performance and Speed: Key Benefits

Performance-wise, this 4-bay NAS is a powerhouse. The Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core 2.0GHz CPU ensures that tasks are handled smoothly, whether it’s streaming 4K content or running multiple backups simultaneously. I tested its dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports, and the speeds were impressive—far exceeding what I’ve experienced with older NAS devices. File transfers felt snappy, even when dealing with large video files, which is a huge win for someone like me who often edits and stores high-resolution media.

The 4x M.2 NVMe SSD slots are a feature I didn’t think I’d use, but wow, they make a noticeable difference. Adding SSDs enhanced the overall performance dramatically, from faster boot times to seamless data retrieval. Additionally, the 4 GB DDR4 RAM is upgradable, which is a relief for future-proofing. The inclusion of USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports at 10 Gbps speeds is another highlight, allowing me to connect external drives and transfer data at breakneck speeds. It’s rare to find such a well-rounded combination of power and versatility in devices in this category.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While I am impressed, no product is without its flaws. Here are some areas for improvement I’ve noticed:

• The initial setup process can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with NAS systems. The interface, while feature-rich, isn’t the most intuitive.
• The noise level is noticeable during heavy use. It’s not obnoxiously loud, but if you’re in a quiet room, you’ll hear the fans working.
• Price point aside, the cost of adding multiple SSDs or upgrading components can quickly add up, making this a more significant investment than it initially seems.

These are not dealbreakers for me, but they are worth considering if ease of use or noise sensitivity is critical to you.

User Experience and Features

What sets this network-attached storage device apart is its Wake on LAN and WAN support. This feature is a lifesaver when I need to access files remotely. Whether I’m at the office or on the go, waking the device and retrieving documents takes just seconds. The user interface, though slightly challenging at first, offers a wealth of customization options. From creating shared folders to setting up a media server, the possibilities seem endless.

I also dabbled with the Asustor Data Master (ADM) operating system, which packs robust security features. The AES 256-bit encryption adds peace of mind, especially when storing sensitive work files. The backup options are extensive, supporting both local and cloud-based solutions. For a tech enthusiast like me, these features are exciting, but they might feel overwhelming for someone new to NAS devices.

Good Points

• Exceptional performance powered by the Intel Celeron N5105 CPU.
• Dual 2.5 GbE ports offer lightning-fast network speeds.
• Compact design with efficient thermal management.
• Versatile connectivity with USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.

Competitors to Consider

Comparing this to Synology DiskStation DS920+, which many people rave about, I’d say the AS5404T edges out in terms of connectivity options. The USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and M.2 NVMe SSD slots are features that Synology lacks. However, Synology’s user interface is far more beginner-friendly, which could matter to someone less experienced with NAS setups.

Another contender is the QNAP TS-453D, which offers similar specs but lacks the refined thermal design of the Asustor. I’ve found that the AS5404T handles heat dissipation better, which is crucial if you plan to run it continuously. While QNAP has its strengths, such as a more extensive app ecosystem, I’d choose the AS5404T for its superior hardware and long-term reliability.

Quality for Price

For what it offers, the AS5404T delivers excellent value for its price point. While it’s not the cheapest NAS out there, the combination of high-speed networking, expandable storage options, and robust performance makes it worth the investment. I’ve used budget NAS devices in the past, and they don’t come close to the efficiency and versatility of this model. If you’re looking for a balance between price and quality, this is a strong contender. Just be prepared to spend extra on SSDs or additional RAM if you really want to unlock its full potential.

Would I recommend this 4-bay NAS? Absolutely, but only if you’re ready to dive into its features and make the most out of its robust capabilities.

Additional information