Synology DS224+ vs Synology DS923+ Black Friday 2026: Picks

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Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS and Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS serve different kinds of storage plans. The DS224+ keeps a home setup simple with two drive bays and an Intel processor, while the DS923+ adds four bays, ECC memory and upgrade options aimed at growing libraries and small-office workloads. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify which Synology models make sense for different budgets and workloads during Black Friday 2026.

My pick for most people with a growing photo, document or backup collection is the Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS, because extra bays give a more flexible upgrade path. The Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS remains a sensible fit for straightforward home storage, especially when a compact setup matters more than expansion. The guide also compares five alternatives, explains the core differences and outlines what to check before choosing drives or a network upgrade.

How We Picked

• Compared drive-bay counts, memory types and upgrade limits for each NAS.
• Reviewed processor and networking features against home, media and small-office workloads.
• Considered owner feedback about setup, software support and day-to-day administration.
• Prioritized models with a clear role, from simple backups to larger expandable storage.
• Focused on Black Friday 2026 shopping decisions without relying on temporary pricing.

Comparison Table

Product	Best for	Drive bays	Included memory	Ethernet ports
Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS	Home backups and shared files	2	2GB DDR4	2 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS	Expandable storage and small offices	4	4GB ECC DDR4	2 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS	Home media libraries and backups	4	2GB DDR4	2 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS	Basic backups and shared folders	2	1GB DDR4	1 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS	Compact offices and advanced home setups	2	2GB ECC DDR4	2 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS	Growing teams and large libraries	5	8GB ECC DDR4	4 x 1GbE
Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS	High-capacity business storage	6	4GB ECC DDR4	4 x 1GbE

Best Picks Reviewed

#1

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS is the best straightforward home NAS for people who want dependable shared storage with room for two drives. The Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS's Intel Celeron J4125 processor and 2GB of memory suit backups, file sharing and everyday home services.

Best for: Home backups and shared files

Drive bays

2

Processor

Intel Celeron J4125, 4 cores

Included memory

2GB DDR4

Ethernet

2 x 1GbE

Pros

• Simple two-bay layout is easy to plan around
• Intel processor supports a broad set of home services
• Two Ethernet ports support link aggregation or failover

Cons

• Two drive bays limit future capacity and redundancy choices

Is the Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS is a strong choice for home backups, shared folders and everyday storage. The Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS's 2-bay design keeps setup manageable, while the Intel Celeron processor handles common NAS tasks.

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#2 · Top pick

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS is the best expandable NAS for small offices and serious home libraries that need room to scale. Four drive bays, 4GB of ECC memory and an optional 10GbE upgrade create a flexible foundation.

Best for: Expandable storage and small offices

Drive bays

4

Processor

AMD Ryzen R1600, 2 cores

Included memory

4GB ECC DDR4

Ethernet

2 x 1GbE; optional 10GbE

Pros

• Four bays provide more storage and drive-layout flexibility
• ECC memory is suited to dependable business storage
• PCIe expansion supports an optional 10GbE adapter

Cons

• Ryzen processor lacks integrated graphics for hardware video transcoding

Is the Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS is worth considering for expandable storage, business files and large media libraries. Four bays, ECC memory and an optional 10GbE upgrade make it a stronger growth platform than a basic two-bay NAS.

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#3

Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS is the best four-bay pick for home users who want Intel-based media features without moving to a larger business-focused system. The Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS's Intel Celeron J4125 processor and four bays balance shared storage and media use.

Best for: Home media libraries and backups

Drive bays

4

Processor

Intel Celeron J4125, 4 cores

Included memory

2GB DDR4

Ethernet

2 x 1GbE

Pros

• Four bays allow a broader range of storage layouts
• Intel processor supports hardware media features
• Two M.2 slots support compatible NVMe cache drives

Cons

• Memory ceiling is lower than the DS923+

Is the Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS fits homes that need four drive bays and Intel-based media capabilities. The model offers useful capacity flexibility for photo libraries, backups and shared media without requiring a larger enterprise-style chassis.

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#4

Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS is the best entry-level pick for people who need basic file storage and scheduled backups. The Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS's 1GB of memory and two drive bays support simple household tasks, while keeping advanced workloads off the shopping list.

Best for: Basic backups and shared folders

Drive bays

2

Processor

Realtek RTD1619B, 4 cores

Included memory

1GB DDR4

Ethernet

1 x 1GbE

Pros

• Simple option for everyday file storage
• Two bays provide drive redundancy options
• Compact design fits a home network shelf

Cons

• Limited memory and processing power constrain heavier applications

Is the Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS is a practical starting point for household backups, shared folders and basic file access. The Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS's straightforward hardware is best matched with simple storage needs rather than demanding media or business applications.

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#5

Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS is the best compact NAS for users who want business-class memory and expansion options in a two-bay enclosure. The Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS's 2GB of ECC memory and optional 10GbE upgrade offer a more growth-oriented platform than the DS224+.

Best for: Compact offices and advanced home setups

Drive bays

2

Processor

AMD Ryzen R1600, 2 cores

Included memory

2GB ECC DDR4

Ethernet

2 x 1GbE; optional 10GbE

Pros

• ECC memory supports a business-focused setup
• Optional 10GbE and expansion-unit support add flexibility
• Two M.2 slots support compatible NVMe cache drives

Cons

• Two drive bays restrict internal capacity compared with four-bay models

Is the Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS723+ 2-Bay NAS is a good fit for compact offices that value ECC memory, network upgrades and expansion options. The two-bay design is less suitable for buyers who want several internal drives from the outset.

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#6

Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS is the best higher-capacity choice for growing teams and households with large, active storage libraries. Five drive bays and 8GB of ECC memory provide more headroom than the smaller Plus models.

Best for: Growing teams and large libraries

Drive bays

5

Processor

AMD Ryzen R1600, 2 cores

Included memory

8GB ECC DDR4

Ethernet

4 x 1GbE; optional 10GbE

Pros

• Five bays make larger storage plans easier to manage
• 8GB of ECC memory is included
• Four Ethernet ports offer network flexibility

Cons

• Larger capacity and business features exceed basic home needs

Is the Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS is a solid fit for growing storage needs, shared work files and large household libraries. Five bays and included ECC memory provide ample room to organize a more demanding NAS setup.

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#7

Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS is the best choice for users building a high-capacity NAS for business files or extensive backups. Six drive bays and a 4-core AMD Ryzen processor make it a step up for workloads that need more internal storage.

Best for: High-capacity business storage

Drive bays

6

Processor

AMD Ryzen V1500B, 4 cores

Included memory

4GB ECC DDR4

Ethernet

4 x 1GbE

Pros

• Six bays suit larger storage pools
• 4-core processor supports demanding multitasking
• ECC memory and PCIe expansion serve business use

Cons

• More system than most entry-level home users need

Is the Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS suits businesses and advanced users who need extensive internal capacity and multitasking. Six bays provide more drive-layout choices than the DS923+, while ECC memory supports a business-oriented storage role.

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Which is better, Synology DS224+ or DS923+?

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS is better for simple home storage, while Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS is better for expansion and small-office use. The clearest difference is the number of drive bays: two in the DS224+ and four in the DS923+.

The DS224+ uses an Intel Celeron J4125 processor and 2GB of memory, a sensible combination for household backups, shared folders and common NAS applications. The DS923+ uses an AMD Ryzen R1600 processor and includes 4GB of ECC memory, with greater memory expansion and an optional 10GbE network upgrade. The DS923+ also has M.2 NVMe slots for compatible cache drives.

Choose the DS224+ when a smaller two-drive setup covers the storage plan. Choose the DS923+ when additional bays, ECC memory and future network upgrades matter more than an Intel media feature set.

Is Synology DS923+ good for Plex and media streaming?

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS supports media libraries and file delivery, but its AMD Ryzen R1600 processor has no integrated graphics for hardware video transcoding. That distinction matters when a media server must convert video formats for remote playback or less capable client devices.

Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS uses an Intel Celeron J4125 processor and is a more natural option for buyers who prioritize Intel-based hardware media features. Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS shares the Intel processor family, but has two fewer drive bays than the DS423+.

For direct playback on compatible devices, the DS923+ still provides useful network storage for a media collection. For frequent transcoding, compare the Intel-based models and confirm that the media application and playback devices support the intended formats.

How many drives fit in Synology DS224+ and DS923+?

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS fits 2 internal drives, while Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS fits 4 internal drives. More bays allow additional capacity options and more flexibility when planning a storage pool.

A two-bay system can be a good match for household documents, photos and device backups. A four-bay system offers more ways to balance capacity, redundancy and later expansion, though the chosen drive arrangement affects usable space. RAID and Synology storage configurations are not a substitute for a separate backup.

Buyers should decide how much usable space they need, account for the storage overhead of their chosen configuration and leave room for library growth. Synology DiskStation DS1522+ 5-Bay NAS and Synology DiskStation DS1621+ 6-Bay NAS fit larger capacity plans.

Which Synology NAS is best for home backups?

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS is a well-rounded home backup choice for users who want two drive bays and a capable Intel processor. The model can centralize files from household computers and serve shared folders across a home network.

Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS is a basic alternative for straightforward file storage, while Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS suits people who expect a larger photo or media collection. The DS423+ adds two bays over either two-drive option, giving a broader path to capacity.

A NAS is only one part of a backup plan. Keep another copy of irreplaceable files on a separate device or remote service, and check scheduled backup tools, account security and recovery steps before moving important data.

What should I check before buying a Synology NAS?

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS and Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS call for different drive plans, so check the bay count before choosing either system. Also verify that selected hard drives appear on Synology's compatibility information and match the workload.

Consider the network connection next: each model includes two 1GbE ports, while the DS923+ supports an optional 10GbE adapter. A faster network only helps when the router or switch, computer and cabling support the same connection. Check whether the intended placement has reliable wired access.

Finally, compare the software features, memory needs and expansion options against the tasks the NAS will handle. Skip it if the plan only needs occasional file sharing and a cloud folder already covers that need. Factor drives, backup copies and setup time into the overall decision.

Buying Guide

Choose the right number of drive bays

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS gives a two-drive starting point, while Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS provides four internal bays. Pick according to desired usable capacity, redundancy approach and expected growth, rather than choosing by chassis size alone.

Match the processor to the workload

Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS and Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS use Intel Celeron processors, while Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS uses an AMD Ryzen processor. Check media transcoding, application and multitasking requirements before settling on a model.

Plan memory and networking

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS includes 4GB of ECC memory and supports an optional 10GbE upgrade. Consider memory needs, network equipment and the files being transferred; faster networking brings value only when the rest of the setup supports it.

Budget for drives and backup copies

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS and the other enclosures are sold separately from storage drives. Confirm drive compatibility, calculate the usable capacity for the selected storage layout and maintain an additional backup copy outside the NAS.

FAQ

Synology DS224+ vs DS923+: which should I buy?

Choose Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS for straightforward home storage and two-drive backups. Choose Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS for four bays, ECC memory, broader expansion and small-office storage. The intended workload and capacity plan are the best deciding factors.

Does Synology DS923+ support 10GbE?

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS supports an optional 10GbE upgrade through its PCIe expansion slot. The NAS includes two 1GbE ports, so a faster connection requires a compatible adapter and supporting network equipment, cabling and client device.

Can Synology DS224+ transcode video?

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS uses an Intel Celeron J4125 processor with integrated graphics, supporting hardware media features in compatible software and formats. Check the media server's format support and client playback requirements before relying on transcoding.

Is a 2-bay NAS enough for home use?

Synology DiskStation DS224+ 2-Bay NAS and Synology DiskStation DS223j 2-Bay NAS suit many home backups and shared-file needs. Two bays limit internal expansion compared with four-bay models, so consider future capacity before selecting a smaller enclosure.

Does Synology DS923+ include hard drives?

Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS is an enclosure that does not include hard drives. Select compatible drives separately, plan the storage layout and keep a second copy of important data on another device or backup service.

Which Synology NAS is best for a home media server?

Synology DiskStation DS423+ 4-Bay NAS is a strong home media choice for shoppers who want four bays and an Intel processor with hardware media features. Synology DiskStation DS923+ 4-Bay NAS suits larger libraries but lacks integrated graphics for hardware video transcoding.