Comparison of Synology DiskStation DS923+ vs. DS925+: Assessing If It’s a Genuine Upgrade
# Synology DiskStation DS925+: Essential Upgrades and Constraints to Consider
Synology has established a strong reputation in the network-attached storage (NAS) market, delivering dependable hardware alongside its outstanding DiskStation Manager (DSM) software. With the introduction of the DiskStation DS925+, Synology has rolled out several significant enhancements compared to its forerunner, the DS923+. However, these advancements come with a crucial drawback that may deter many users: stringent limitations on compatible hard drives.
Let’s explore what the DS925+ has to offer — and why it may be wise to reconsider upgrading.
## Key Innovations in the DS925+
The Synology DiskStation DS925+ features various hardware upgrades relative to the DS923+, including:
– **Dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports**: The DS925+ is equipped with faster 2.5GbE ports, replacing the standard Gigabit Ethernet found in the DS923+. This allows for improved file transfer speeds and enhanced performance in multi-user scenarios.
– **Quad-Core Ryzen Processor**: Powered by a quad-core AMD Ryzen V1500B CPU, the DS925+ provides more processing capability compared to the dual-core Ryzen R1600 in the DS923+. This makes it more adept at handling demanding tasks such as virtualization, file indexing, and concurrent user access.
– **USB-C Extensibility**: The DS925+ features a USB-C port for expansion, supplanting the eSATA port utilized by the DS923+, in line with contemporary connectivity standards.
– **Dual M.2 NVMe Slots for Storage**: Similar to its predecessor, the DS925+ comes with two M.2 slots that can serve as both cache and standalone storage volumes.
These upgrades make the DS925+ an appealing option for users looking for increased power and faster networking capabilities.
## The Major Limitation: Hard Drive Constraints
In spite of the hardware advancements, Synology has implemented a controversial rule with the DS925+: it mandates the use of Synology-branded hard drives. Previously, users could freely install drives from brands like Seagate, Western Digital, Toshiba, and others, but the DS925+ requires Synology’s own drives to initiate the setup process.
This limitation carries several consequences:
– **Increased Expenses**: Synology’s hard drives are typically priced higher than comparable options from other manufacturers.
– **Restricted Options**: Users forfeit the ability to select drives according to their specific needs regarding performance, capacity, or cost.
– **Vendor Lock-in**: This policy effectively confines users to Synology’s ecosystem, potentially causing dissatisfaction for those who prefer open hardware compatibility.
While Synology asserts that this policy guarantees greater reliability and system stability, it has not presented substantial evidence to back these claims. For many users, this constraint overshadows the DS925+’s otherwise commendable enhancements.
## DS925+ vs. DS923+: Which Should You Choose?
When evaluating the DS925+ alongside the DS923+, the choice primarily revolves around how much you prioritize drive compatibility.
| Feature | DS925+ | DS923+ |
|:——–|:——|:——-|
| CPU | Quad-core Ryzen V1500B | Dual-core Ryzen R1600 |
| Ethernet Ports | Dual 2.5GbE | Dual 1GbE (upgradeable to 10GbE) |
| Drive Compatibility | Synology drives only | Any NAS-rated drive |
| Expansion Port | USB-C | eSATA |
| M.2 Slots | 2 (storage or cache) | 2 (storage or cache) |
| Software | DSM 7.x | DSM 7.x |
While the DS925+ boasts superior networking capabilities and a more robust CPU, the DS923+ offers a more adaptable and economical option for the majority of users. Importantly, the DS923+ permits a 10GbE upgrade via an add-on card, a feature that the DS925+ lacks.
## Real-World Performance
Both the DS923+ and DS925+ excel as Plex media servers, file storage solutions, and backup systems. However, neither model supports hardware transcoding in Plex due to their AMD-based processors. If you heavily depend on Plex Pass features like hardware transcoding, consider exploring other NAS alternatives.
DSM, Synology’s operating system, remains a standout aspect for both models, offering:
– Simple file sharing and syncing
– Comprehensive backup options
– Virtual Machine Manager for running VMs
– Surveillance Station for managing security cameras
– Mobile applications for seamless remote access
In practical use, both NAS devices are efficient, dependable, and straightforward to manage, making them stellar choices for home users and small businesses.
## Conclusion: Choose the DS923+ (For Now)
Despite the hardware benefits of the DS925+, the hard drive limitations are
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