**Android Central Verdict: Synology BeeStation Plus Review**
The Synology BeeStation Plus represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the standard BeeStation model. It brings Plex integration, a sought-after feature among users, turning the BeeStation Plus into a capable media server. This enhancement makes it a perfect option for individuals looking for a straightforward media server solution. Importantly, the BeeStation Plus provides hardware transcoding, a capability absent in some pricier DiskStation models. It performs exceptionally well in backing up images and data from linked devices and includes an integrated 8TB hard drive. For newcomers to centralized media servers, the BeeStation Plus is a prime recommendation for 2025.
**Pros:**
– Outstanding performance as a Plex media server
– Incredibly simple to set up and operate
– Supports hardware transcoding
– Provides strong mobile client options
– Natively integrates with cloud services
**Cons:**
– Lacks certain features present in DiskStation NAS models
– Considered expensive
**Pricing and Availability:**
The Synology BeeStation Plus debuted in May 2025 and is currently accessible worldwide. It is priced at $409 on Amazon U.S. and £385 on Amazon U.K. The BeeStation Plus comes in a single configuration featuring an 8TB integrated hard drive (BST170-8T).
**Design and Features:**
The BeeStation Plus retains the design of the standard model, showcasing a sleek, minimalist black box design. It incorporates an LED status indicator on the front, BeeStation branding on the sides, and connectivity options such as USB-A, USB-C, and a Gigabit Ethernet port on the back. The device is designed for passive cooling through ventilation. It is driven by the Intel Celeron J4125 processor and is equipped with 4GB of RAM.
**Performance:**
The BeeStation Plus is promoted as a “private and family cloud storage” option, operating on the lightweight BeeStation OS. It features BeePhotos and BeeFiles utilities for effective data management. Although it lacks the vast app support of DiskStation models, it shines in data backup and media streaming via Plex. The Intel Celeron J4125 processor guarantees dependable performance and supports hardware transcoding, establishing it as a robust option for home NAS solutions.
**Alternatives:**
For users in search of a more flexible NAS solution, the DiskStation DS224+ provides the same Celeron J4125 platform with comprehensive DiskStation Manager software. Nonetheless, it necessitates the purchase of an additional hard drive, which makes it a more costly choice.
**Should You Buy It?**
– **Buy if:** You require an all-in-one media server, want built-in storage, or need an effortless method to back up images and data.
– **Don’t buy if:** You seek a fully-featured NAS with extensive options.
In summary, the Synology BeeStation Plus overcomes past limitations by incorporating media streaming functionalities, rendering it an excellent selection for those getting started with network-attached storage. While it may not encompass all the features of DiskStation models, it excels in its main functions and is highly endorsed as a Plex media server.
