Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless)

Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) — image 1
Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) — image 2
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Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) — image 5
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87%
88%
Setup & Installation
91%
Performance
90%
Network Reliability
87%
Drive Compatibility
89%
Software Management (DSM)
85%
Noise Level
92%
Build Quality
88%
Value for Money
78%
Customer Support
86%
Flexibility of Use
93%
Speed & Data Handling
80%
Size & Portability
More

Overview

The Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) is a versatile storage solution designed for both home and small office environments. As a diskless unit, it allows users to select and install their own drives, offering flexibility based on storage needs. This NAS device delivers impressive sequential read speeds of 226 MB/s and write speeds of 170 MB/s, making it suitable for efficient data handling. With dual 1GbE ports, it ensures enhanced network performance through failover and link aggregation support, ensuring uptime and reliability for users with varying network demands.

Features & Benefits

This NAS unit excels with a range of features designed to boost performance and usability. The high sequential speeds of 226 MB/s read and 170 MB/s write ensure quick data retrieval and file transfers. Dual 1GbE ports provide redundancy, reducing downtime and improving overall network stability. Compatibility with both 3.5″ SATA HDDs and 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSDs offers flexibility in drive choice. The intuitive Synology DSM software helps users easily manage their storage, creating a reliable and efficient solution for those looking for centralized data management.

Best For

The DS418 NAS is an excellent choice for home users who require a centralized storage hub for their personal files, photos, and media. Small businesses looking for a reliable and scalable network storage solution will also benefit from this device's high-speed performance and flexibility. Its diskless design caters to those who want to customize their storage capacity, making it ideal for users with high storage demands and a need for fast data retrieval. Those on a budget can also find it appealing, as it provides a cost-effective NAS option without included drives.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise the DS418 NAS for its easy setup process and reliable performance, particularly for home networks and small businesses. Many appreciate its quiet operation, which makes it unobtrusive in a home or office setting. However, some have noted the lack of included drives as a drawback, as it adds to the upfront cost. The flexibility to use both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA drives is often highlighted, as well as the robust network management tools available through Synology’s DSM software. Overall, it’s a well-regarded NAS with solid features, but potential buyers should consider the cost of additional storage.

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Pros

  • This NAS unit is ideal for small office and home users who need scalable and customizable storage.
  • The diskless design provides flexibility, allowing users to choose their own drives based on budget or performance needs.
  • Dual 1GbE ports offer redundancy and increased network reliability for smoother data access.
  • With read speeds up to 226 MB/s and write speeds of 170 MB/s, data handling is efficient and fast for everyday tasks.
  • Synology’s DSM software ensures a smooth, user-friendly experience for managing storage and backups.
  • It supports both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD drives, making it versatile for various storage setups.

Cons

  • The lack of pre-installed drives may be an inconvenience for users who want a plug-and-play solution.
  • Some users found the setup process more complex than expected, especially for beginners unfamiliar with NAS systems.
  • It may not be the best option for those needing ultra-fast performance or handling very high data volumes.
  • Without drives included, additional investment is required, which may add to the total cost.
  • The performance may not meet the needs of high-end users or businesses with advanced networking demands.
  • This device might not be ideal for those seeking a fully integrated solution with minimal configuration effort.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, the scores for the Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) reflect a balance of strengths and pain points. Spam, bot-generated, incentivized, duplicated, and off-topic reviews were filtered out, ensuring that only authentic, high-quality feedback shaped these ratings. Both the positive and negative aspects of this NAS have been captured, providing a comprehensive view of what buyers can expect from this device.

Setup & Installation
88%
Many users commend the ease of setup for this NAS unit, especially considering its diskless design. The intuitive Synology DSM software guides users through the process, making it accessible even for those with limited technical knowledge.
Some users report that the setup process can be a bit overwhelming for those unfamiliar with NAS devices. Additionally, while the software is helpful, it might not offer the same user-friendliness as other simpler solutions, leading to frustration for beginners.
Performance
91%
The performance of this NAS device impresses most users, with solid read and write speeds that facilitate efficient data management. It handles heavy tasks, such as media streaming and backups, without significant lag, making it suitable for both home and small office environments.
A few users mention that while performance is generally strong, the device can slow down when handling multiple concurrent tasks, especially if numerous drives are connected. For those with extremely high performance needs, it may not be the best choice for all applications.
Network Reliability
90%
The dual 1GbE ports are a key highlight for users seeking redundancy and stable network performance. This feature allows for smoother data transfers, even under heavy loads, and provides peace of mind with automatic failover during network issues.
Despite its solid network reliability, some users feel that the 1GbE ports could be limiting for those who need higher speeds, such as businesses with heavy data traffic. Users looking for 10GbE or faster speeds might need to consider an upgraded option.
Drive Compatibility
87%
Users appreciate the wide range of drive compatibility, supporting both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA HDDs and SSDs. This flexibility allows for easy customization based on storage requirements and budget, ensuring that this NAS unit can grow with changing needs.
A few buyers mention that, while the flexibility is a plus, it can also create confusion for those who are not familiar with storage options. Some also note that mixing different types of drives could lead to suboptimal performance in certain configurations.
Software Management (DSM)
89%
Synology’s DSM software provides a user-friendly, robust interface for managing storage, backups, and even network security. Users highlight its extensive features and easy customization, making it an excellent tool for both personal and business use.
Not all users find the software as intuitive as expected. Some experience occasional glitches or difficulty navigating the more advanced features, especially those who are new to NAS management or are unfamiliar with the Synology ecosystem.
Noise Level
85%
The device operates quietly, even under load, which is a significant advantage for home users or small offices. Users note that the fan noise is minimal, making it a good option for environments where noise levels are a concern.
A few users report that the device can become noisier when running multiple drives at full capacity. While not excessively loud, some find it noticeable, especially in quieter spaces or environments where noise control is a priority.
Build Quality
92%
The build quality of this NAS unit stands out for its solid and durable construction. The sturdy casing and efficient cooling system contribute to its reliability over time, making it a long-lasting option for home and small office users.
Despite its strong build, some users feel that the overall design is bulkier than necessary. A few buyers have expressed a preference for more compact alternatives, particularly for those with limited space in their home offices.
Value for Money
88%
At its price point, this NAS unit offers great value, providing essential features like dual 1GbE ports and strong software support without a hefty premium. Users appreciate that it allows them to choose their own drives, which can be more cost-effective than pre-configured systems.
However, some buyers feel that the lack of included drives means they have to invest more upfront. This can add to the overall cost, especially for users who are new to NAS and may not have spare drives on hand.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Several users report positive experiences with Synology’s support team, especially when it comes to troubleshooting software issues or providing guidance on network setup. The support team is responsive and helpful in resolving most concerns.
On the downside, some customers have had slow response times, especially when reaching out during peak hours. Others have found the online resources insufficient for more advanced configurations, leading to delays in resolving technical issues.
Flexibility of Use
86%
The flexibility of this NAS unit, with its support for various storage sizes and types, makes it adaptable for different use cases. Users can easily switch out drives or adjust configurations as needed, which adds to its versatility for home or business environments.
A few users mention that while the flexibility is useful, it also introduces complexity. Those unfamiliar with configuring RAID setups or managing disk arrays may find it a bit overwhelming, particularly if they don’t have previous NAS experience.
Speed & Data Handling
93%
With read speeds up to 226 MB/s and write speeds of 170 MB/s, this device excels in data handling. Users find that it handles large files and simultaneous data transfers without significant slowdowns, making it a great choice for media storage and heavy workloads.
Some users note that while the speeds are impressive, they drop slightly when using multiple drives or running multiple tasks simultaneously. For some, this reduction in speed may be noticeable during intensive tasks like video editing or large-scale backups.
Size & Portability
80%
20%
The NAS unit’s compact size makes it suitable for smaller offices or home use where space is limited. Its rackmountable option also adds flexibility for those needing a more permanent installation in a network rack.
However, some users feel that its size, while compact, is still too large for certain spaces. Additionally, its lack of portability makes it less ideal for users who need to move the device frequently, especially in environments where mobility is key.

Suitable for:

The Synology DiskStation DS418 4-Bay NAS (Diskless) is well-suited for home users and small businesses who need a reliable, cost-effective network storage solution. Its diskless design allows users to customize storage according to their specific needs, making it ideal for those who already have hard drives or wish to purchase them separately for budget reasons. The flexible drive compatibility, supporting both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA HDDs and SSDs, ensures it can accommodate a wide range of storage requirements. With features like dual 1GbE ports, it is perfect for users requiring efficient data access and reliable network performance, such as media professionals, small office teams, or tech enthusiasts managing large files or running backups.

Not suitable for:

This NAS device may not be ideal for users who need a plug-and-play solution with pre-installed drives, as the diskless design requires additional investment in hard drives. Those who need ultra-fast performance, such as businesses handling massive data traffic or users requiring speeds faster than 1GbE, might find it limiting. Additionally, beginners or users unfamiliar with NAS setups may struggle with the more complex configuration process, despite the assistance from Synology's DSM software. If you need a ready-to-use solution with maximum speed and minimal setup, this device may not be the best fit for your needs.

Specifications

  • Type: 4-bay NAS device designed for home and small office use.
  • Design: Diskless design; users must purchase and install their own drives.
  • Read Speed: Supports up to 226 MB/s sequential read speeds for fast data access.
  • Write Speed: Supports up to 170 MB/s sequential write speeds for efficient data handling.
  • Network Ports: Equipped with dual 1GbE Ethernet ports for redundancy and link aggregation.
  • Drive Compatibility: Compatible with both 3.5″ SATA HDD and 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD drives.
  • Capacity: Supports a maximum storage capacity of up to 40 TB when fully populated.
  • Operating System: Runs on Synology's DSM (DiskStation Manager) software for storage management.
  • Dimensions: Measures 8.78 x 7.83 x 6.54 inches, making it compact and desktop-friendly.
  • Weight: Weighs 5.03 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to place in various setups.
  • Mounting: Rackmountable (optional) for flexibility in mounting in server racks.
  • Redundancy Features: Supports failover and link aggregation for enhanced network reliability.
  • Power Supply: Operates on a 240V power supply.
  • Expansion Options: Supports external storage expansion for scalable storage needs.
  • Target Audience: Ideal for home users and small offices needing centralized network storage.
  • Software Features: Includes Synology’s robust software suite for backup, file sharing, and remote access.
  • RAID Support: Supports multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 1, 5, 6, and 10.
  • Performance: Designed for efficient data handling with high-speed read and write capabilities.
  • Cooling: Includes quiet fans for effective heat dissipation without excessive noise.

FAQ

The Synology DiskStation DS418 is a 4-bay network-attached storage (NAS) device designed for home and small office users. It provides centralized data storage and efficient data management, ideal for users who need fast, reliable access to large amounts of data across a network.

Yes, the Synology DS418 NAS is diskless, meaning it doesn’t come with pre-installed hard drives. You’ll need to purchase your own 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA hard drives or solid-state drives (HDD/SSD) to install into the device.

Setup is generally straightforward, with many users praising the ease of configuration. Synology’s DSM software simplifies the installation process, guiding users through adding drives, setting up shared folders, and configuring network settings. However, beginners may need some time to get accustomed to the software.

The DS418 NAS offers impressive sequential read speeds of up to 226 MB/s and write speeds up to 170 MB/s. These speeds are ideal for everyday file management, media streaming, and light backup tasks in small office environments.

Yes, the DS418 supports both 3.5″ SATA HDDs and 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSDs. This gives you flexibility to choose the type of storage that best meets your needs for speed or capacity.

Yes, the DS418 supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, and RAID 10, allowing you to set up your storage with redundancy or performance in mind, depending on your needs.

The DS418 NAS features dual 1GbE Ethernet ports, which allow for improved network performance and redundancy. This is ideal for environments where reliable network access is important, as it supports failover and link aggregation for faster data transfers.

While the DS418 is well-suited for small offices or home use, businesses with very high data throughput requirements might find the device’s performance limited. It’s a solid choice for moderate usage but may not meet the demands of large enterprises with high-volume data processing needs.

The DS418 runs on Synology's DSM (DiskStation Manager) operating system, which is known for its user-friendly interface. It offers a variety of features, including data backup solutions, file sharing, and media streaming tools. Most users find it intuitive, though beginners may take some time to explore its full range of options.

A common concern is that the DS418 comes without hard drives, meaning additional investment is required to purchase them. Additionally, while the setup is generally easy, some users have mentioned that beginners might need some extra time to fully configure the system, especially if they are new to NAS devices.