Synology DS925+ NAS Review: A Cautionary Tale

The Synology DS925+ NAS has generated significant buzz in the tech community, especially among those looking to upgrade their home or small business storage solutions. As a well-established player in the NAS market, Synology has long been synonymous with reliability and user-friendly software. However, the latest iteration, the DS925+, has sparked controversy due to its restrictive drive compatibility policy, which may alienate a segment of its loyal customer base.

Overview of the DS925+

The DS925+ is a 4-bay NAS that comes equipped with a quad-core Ryzen V1500B processor, 4GB of ECC RAM (expandable to 32GB), and dual 2.5GbE ports. This hardware upgrade is a welcome change from its predecessor, the DS923+, which featured a dual-core processor and limited network capabilities. The DS925+ also runs on Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.2, which is widely regarded as one of the best NAS operating systems available.

Key Features

• Improved Hardware: The quad-core processor and ECC memory enhance performance, particularly for multitasking and running virtual machines.
• Dual 2.5GbE Ports: This upgrade allows for better bandwidth and supports link aggregation, which is crucial for users with high data transfer needs.
• Top-Tier Software: DSM 7.2 offers a polished user interface and a plethora of features, including backup solutions, media management, and cloud services.

The Controversial Drive Compatibility Policy

One of the most significant changes with the DS925+ is Synology's strict drive compatibility policy. Unlike previous models that allowed users to utilize a variety of third-party drives, the DS925+ will not initialize unless Synology-approved drives are used. This shift has raised eyebrows and concerns among users who have relied on third-party drives for years.

Implications of the Policy

• Increased Costs: Synology's branded drives are often priced higher than comparable third-party options, leading to increased overall costs for users.
• Limited Choices: Users may find themselves locked into a specific ecosystem, limiting their ability to choose drives based on performance, price, or availability.
• Potential for Frustration: If a drive fails, users may face delays in replacing it due to the limited availability of Synology drives, which could disrupt their operations.

Performance and Usability

Despite the concerns surrounding drive compatibility, the DS925+ performs admirably in terms of speed and usability. The dual 2.5GbE ports provide a noticeable improvement in data transfer rates, and the DSM software remains intuitive and feature-rich. Users can easily manage their files, set up backups, and access multimedia content without a steep learning curve.

Pros

• Strong Performance: The quad-core processor and ECC memory ensure smooth operation, even under heavy loads.
• User-Friendly Interface: DSM continues to impress with its clean design and comprehensive features.
• Excellent Thermal Management: The dual-fan system keeps the NAS cool and quiet, even during intensive tasks.

Cons

• Restrictive Drive Policy: The inability to use third-party drives is a significant drawback for many users.
• No 10GbE Upgrade Option: The removal of the PCIe slot for 10GbE upgrades is disappointing, especially for users looking to future-proof their investment.
• Higher Costs: Synology's branded drives are often more expensive than their competitors, which could deter potential buyers.

Conclusion: A Fork in the Road

The Synology DS925+ is undoubtedly a capable NAS with impressive hardware and software features. However, the restrictive drive compatibility policy casts a long shadow over its potential appeal. For users who value flexibility and cost-effectiveness, this shift may be a dealbreaker.

As the NAS landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Synology will navigate these changes and whether they will address the concerns of their user base. For now, potential buyers should weigh the benefits of the DS925+ against the limitations imposed by its drive policy. In a market filled with alternatives, the choice may ultimately come down to personal preference and priorities.

In summary, while the DS925+ offers a solid performance and user experience, the restrictive policies may lead many to consider other options in the NAS market. As always, it's essential to evaluate your specific needs and budget before making a decision.