## TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus: An In-Depth Analysis
In the realm of Network Attached Storage (NAS), TerraMaster has established a strong presence by providing potent, feature-packed, and budget-friendly alternatives. The **TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus** represents the latest addition to their collection, introducing an innovative all-flash NAS server equipped with **eight M.2 SSD slots**. This sleek, yet powerful NAS caters to enthusiasts and content creators who require rapid storage and formidable performance. This review will delve into the F8 SSD Plus, examining its features, performance, and the value of the investment.
### **Android Central Assessment**
**Rating: 4.5/5 Stars**
The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus stands out as an exceptional NAS server for anyone considering moving from traditional hard drives to **M.2 SSD storage**. Featuring **eight M.2 slots**, **16GB of RAM**, and an **Intel i3-N305** processor, it provides outstanding performance within a compact framework. Although the software has a few issues, and the absence of **Thunderbolt 4** connectivity might deter some users, the F8 SSD Plus is an excellent option for those in search of a high-performance, all-flash NAS solution.
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### **Advantages**
– **Robust hardware** with 16GB memory
– **Compact design** for convenient placement
– **10GbE connectivity** for rapid data transfers
– **Eight M.2 2280 slots** for ample storage
– **Exceptional performance** for intensive tasks
– **Refined software** compared to earlier iterations
### **Disadvantages**
– **TOS 6 software** can occasionally be buggy
– **Plastic chassis** feels less premium
– **Lack of Thunderbolt 4 connectivity**, restricting some scenarios
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## **Pricing and Availability**
The TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus was released on **September 19, 2023**, and is accessible worldwide. The NAS server is priced at **$799** on Amazon, though TerraMaster is providing a **$100 discount**, reducing the price to **$699**. Additionally, there’s a standard version featuring an **Intel N95 processor** and **8GB of RAM**, available for **$599** (discounted to **$499**).
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## **Design**
One of the most impressive aspects of the F8 SSD Plus is its **compact design**. Unlike conventional NAS servers that utilize bulky 3.5-inch drive bays, the F8 SSD Plus is tailored specifically for **M.2 SSDs**. This enables it to occupy a much smaller space, making it ideal for tight areas or cabinets.
The NAS showcases a **vented design** on the top for heat dissipation, complemented by **dual fans** at the base for active cooling. The **tool-less installation** of M.2 drives is a noteworthy feature, allowing users to seamlessly add or swap out drives without additional tools. TerraMaster also supplies **heatsinks, thermal pads, and elastic bands** for each M.2 slot, ensuring the SSDs remain cool during operation.
However, the **plastic chassis** is somewhat disappointing. Given the upscale nature of the product, an **aluminum frame** would have been a more desirable option for enhanced durability and heat dissipation.
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## **Ports and Connectivity**
The F8 SSD Plus includes **10GbE connectivity** as a standard feature, which is a considerable enhancement over the usual 1GbE ports found in many NAS servers. This makes it perfect for users who need to transfer significant amounts of data swiftly. An **HDMI port** is also present, although it lacks full utility without Thunderbolt 4 support.
Regarding USB connectivity, the NAS is equipped with **two USB-A ports** and a **USB-C port**, all adhering to the **USB 3.2 Gen 2 standard** with **10Gbps bandwidth**. Nonetheless, the absence of **Thunderbolt 4** is a missed chance, particularly for content creators who depend on high-speed external drives and peripherals.
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## **Performance**
Fueled by the **Intel i3-N305** processor, the F8 SSD Plus boasts **eight cores and eight threads**, with a clock speed of up to **3.80GHz**. This renders it considerably more powerful than NAS servers fitted with older Celeron processors. The **16GB of DDR5 RAM** (expandable to 32GB) ensures that the NAS can manage demanding tasks such as **virtual machine hosting** and **Plex media server** functionalities effortlessly.
The NAS accommodates **up to 64TB of storage** across its eight **M.2 2280 slots**, making it an excellent choice for users needing a substantial amount of swift, dependable storage. The **Gen
