Synology DS925+ Review : Pros, Cons and Performance is it Worth the Price?
In this insight from SpaceRex, learn about the new Synology DS925+ to uncover its strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. From the seamless integration of DSM software to the controversial drive lock-in, this review doesn't shy away from the details that matter most. Whether you're curious about its performance in virtualization or wondering if it's the right fit for your media streaming needs, this exploration will help you decide if the DS925 Plus aligns with your priorities. Sometimes, the best tech isn't about what it can do—it's about whether it's the right tool for you. Synology DS925+ Overview Key Hardware Features and Upgrades
The DS925 Plus introduces several notable upgrades over its predecessor, the DS923 Plus, solidifying its position in the competitive NAS market. At its core is the AMD Ryzen V1500B, a quad-core processor designed to deliver consistent performance for tasks such as file sharing, application hosting, and virtualization. This processor is paired with 4GB of DDR4 ECC RAM, which can be expanded to 8GB, making sure both speed and data integrity—critical for multitasking and professional workloads.
Network connectivity has been improved with dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, offering faster speeds compared to traditional gigabit connections. However, the absence of a 10Gb Ethernet upgrade option may limit its appeal for users with high-bandwidth requirements. Additionally, the device features a USB-C expansion port, but its compatibility is restricted to Synology DX525 units, reducing its versatility for other USB-C peripherals. Performance Strengths and Hardware Limitations
The DS925 Plus excels in delivering reliable performance for core NAS functions, including file sharing, data backups, and application hosting. Its capabilities are further enhanced by Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) software, which provides an intuitive and seamless user experience. DSM's interface and tools are designed to maximize productivity and simplify data management.
Despite these strengths, the device has some limitations. The network speed is capped at 2.5Gb, which may not meet the needs of users requiring faster data transfer rates, such as 10Gb Ethernet. Additionally, the DS925 Plus lacks Intel Quick Sync technology, meaning it does not support hardware transcoding for media applications like Plex. This could be a significant drawback for home users who prioritize streaming high-resolution video content. AMD Ryzen-Powered Synology DS925+ : Full Review and Analysis
Watch this video on YouTube.
Learn more about the Synology NAS range of storage solutions with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Drive Compatibility: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the most debated aspects of the DS925 Plus is its requirement for Synology-branded drives. These drives are optimized for the device, making sure full compatibility with DSM features and delivering reliable performance. However, this approach limits user flexibility and creates a dependency on a single supplier.
The cost of Synology-branded drives, particularly those larger than 16TB, is significantly higher compared to alternatives from other manufacturers. This drive lock-in can pose challenges, especially in RAID configurations. In the event of a drive failure, sourcing a replacement Synology-branded drive may lead to downtime and increased costs. For businesses that rely on uninterrupted access to critical data, this could be a significant concern. DSM Software: A Comprehensive Ecosystem
The DiskStation Manager (DSM) software is one of the standout features of the DS925 Plus, offering a wide range of tools to enhance productivity and streamline data management. Key applications include: Active Backup for Business: A centralized solution for backing up data across multiple devices, making sure data security and recovery options.
A centralized solution for backing up data across multiple devices, making sure data security and recovery options. Synology Drive: A file-sharing platform that rivals popular cloud services like Google Drive, providing seamless access to files across devices.
A file-sharing platform that rivals popular cloud services like Google Drive, providing seamless access to files across devices. Synology Photos: An intuitive tool for organizing, managing, and sharing photos, making it ideal for both personal and professional use.
These features make the DS925 Plus particularly appealing for businesses seeking an integrated and efficient ecosystem. However, for home users, the advanced capabilities of DSM may be underutilized, especially given the device's higher price point and proprietary drive requirements. Who Should Consider the DS925 Plus?
The DS925 Plus is best suited for businesses and professionals who prioritize performance, data integrity, and seamless integration within Synology's ecosystem. Its hardware and software are designed to handle demanding workloads, making it a reliable choice for environments where uptime and efficiency are critical. The device's ability to support virtualization, centralized backups, and secure file sharing makes it an excellent investment for organizations with complex data management needs.
For home users, the appeal of the DS925 Plus is less compelling. The higher cost, lack of 10Gb Ethernet, and reliance on Synology-branded drives may outweigh its benefits. Users seeking a NAS device for personal use or media-focused applications might find alternatives with greater flexibility and lower costs more suitable for their needs. Final Thoughts
The Synology DS925+ is a powerful NAS device that excels in performance, scalability, and software integration. Its AMD Ryzen processor, dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, and DSM ecosystem make it a strong choice for businesses with demanding workloads. However, its reliance on proprietary drives, lack of 10Gb Ethernet, and absence of hardware transcoding limit its appeal for home users or those with specific requirements.
Before making a purchase, it is essential to carefully evaluate your needs and consider the potential risks associated with drive lock-in. While the DS925 Plus offers impressive capabilities, its limitations may make it less suitable for certain users. For those who can use its strengths, it remains a reliable and efficient solution for managing data in professional environments.
Media Credit: SpaceRex Filed Under: Hardware, Reviews, Top News
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Understanding these limitations can help you determine whether NAS is the right solution for your workflow: Complex Setup: Configuring a NAS requires a basic understanding of networking and storage systems, which can be daunting for beginners. Configuring a NAS requires a basic understanding of networking and storage systems, which can be daunting for beginners. Cost: High-performance NAS devices, along with the necessary network infrastructure, can represent a significant investment. High-performance NAS devices, along with the necessary network infrastructure, can represent a significant investment. Network Dependency: The performance of a NAS is heavily reliant on the speed and reliability of your local network, which may require upgrades to meet demanding workflows. The performance of a NAS is heavily reliant on the speed and reliability of your local network, which may require upgrades to meet demanding workflows. Overkill for Small Projects: For single editors or smaller projects, the advanced features of a NAS may not justify the cost and complexity. By weighing these factors, you can decide whether the benefits of NAS align with your specific needs and resources. Networking Essentials for NAS A robust network is crucial for maximizing the performance of a NAS system. Wired Ethernet connections are preferred due to their superior speed and reliability compared to wireless options. Common network speeds to consider include: 1 Gbps: Suitable for smaller teams or workflows with less demanding performance requirements. Suitable for smaller teams or workflows with less demanding performance requirements. 2.5 Gbps: A balanced option for moderate performance needs, offering a noticeable improvement over 1 Gbps. A balanced option for moderate performance needs, offering a noticeable improvement over 1 Gbps. 10 Gbps: Ideal for high-performance environments with multiple users and large file transfers. Network switches are essential for connecting multiple devices to the NAS, making sure smooth communication across the network. While internet speed does not directly impact local NAS performance, it becomes a critical factor for remote workflows, where latency and bandwidth can affect efficiency. Key Hardware Considerations Selecting the right NAS hardware is vital for video editing. The following components should be carefully evaluated to ensure optimal performance: RAID Configurations: RAID 5 and RAID 6 are popular choices for video editing, offering a balance of redundancy and performance to protect against drive failures. RAID 5 and RAID 6 are popular choices for video editing, offering a balance of redundancy and performance to protect against drive failures. Storage Drives: Hard drives provide high capacity at a lower cost, while SSDs deliver faster performance. SSD caching can further enhance speed for frequently accessed files. Hard drives provide high capacity at a lower cost, while SSDs deliver faster performance. SSD caching can further enhance speed for frequently accessed files. Drive Bays: Opt for a NAS with additional drive bays to accommodate future storage expansion as your needs grow. Opt for a NAS with additional drive bays to accommodate future storage expansion as your needs grow. Manufacturers: Trusted brands like Synology and QNAP offer user-friendly interfaces and features tailored to video editing workflows. Investing in the right hardware ensures that your NAS system can handle the demands of video editing, both now and in the future. Setting Up a Local Editing Workflow For local editing, NAS simplifies file management and collaboration. By connecting your editing workstation to the NAS via a local network, you can access shared files directly. This eliminates the need for large local storage on individual systems and ensures that all team members are working with the latest project versions. Popular editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro, integrates seamlessly with NAS setups, making it easy to incorporate into your workflow. Optimizing Remote Editing with NAS Remote editing introduces unique challenges, such as latency and bandwidth limitations, but NAS can still be a viable solution with the right tools and strategies: File Syncing: Applications like Synology Drive sync files between the NAS and remote devices, making sure that you always have access to the latest versions. Applications like Synology Drive sync files between the NAS and remote devices, making sure that you always have access to the latest versions. Cloud Integration: Services like Google Drive or Dropbox can supplement remote workflows, reducing bandwidth demands and providing additional flexibility. Services like Google Drive or Dropbox can supplement remote workflows, reducing bandwidth demands and providing additional flexibility. Remote Desktop Software: Tools like Parsec or Jump enable low-latency remote access to local machines connected to the NAS, allowing you to edit as if you were on-site. With these tools, remote editing can be streamlined, allowing you to maintain productivity regardless of location. Recommendations for Implementing NAS To maximize the benefits of your NAS setup, consider the following best practices: Invest in a high-speed network, such as 10 Gbps, to ensure smooth file transfers and optimal editing performance. Choose a NAS with sufficient drive bays to accommodate future storage needs and avoid limitations as your projects grow. Evaluate your workflow requirements—whether local or remote editing—to select the right features and configurations for your needs. By following these recommendations, you can create a NAS setup that enhances your video editing workflow and supports your long-term goals. Media Credit: SpaceRex Filed Under: Guides, Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
