Synology DS725+ NAS review | TechRadar

Synology DS725+: A Powerful NAS with a Confusing Position

The Synology DS725+ is a solid network-attached storage (NAS) device that delivers reliable performance and versatility. However, its place in Synology’s lineup raises some eyebrows. With a downgraded network port, the same CPU as a previous model, and no PCIe expansion for 10GbE upgrades, it’s a tough sell compared to other options in the same price range. That said, for users who don’t need blazing-fast speeds, it’s still a great choice. Let’s dive into the details.

Why You Can Trust TechRadar

At TechRadar, we spend hours testing every product we review to ensure you’re making the best purchase. Learn more about our testing process here.

Synology DS725+: Price and Availability

The Synology DS725+ is priced at $499 without drives, making it an affordable option for those looking to build a custom storage solution. It supports up to 2 drive bays and 2 M.2 NVMe slots for caching, with the option to expand via the DX525 expansion unit for up to 7 total bays.

The DS725+ is widely available directly from Synology and major retailers like Amazon and Amazon UK. Synology has also recently opened up compatibility to non-Synology-branded drives, though performance may vary.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Synology’s packaging is simple and effective, with foam inserts to protect the enclosure during shipping. Inside, you’ll find the NAS, power brick, cables, drive bay screws, a key, and a quick start guide. The DS725+ has a compact, minimalist design that fits seamlessly into any setup, whether on a desk or in a rack.

Setup is straightforward, with the initial configuration handled through find.synology.com. The process took about 15-20 minutes from unboxing to full functionality.

Design and Build Quality

The DS725+ boasts a sleek, matte dark grey/black finish with minimal branding and lighting. Its build quality is excellent, with no loose parts or cheap-feeling components. The compact form factor makes it versatile for various use cases, though the lack of a PCIe expansion port is a notable omission.

In Use

Over several weeks of testing, the DS725+ proved to be a reliable media server, handling RAW video and photo files with ease. It also excelled as a sync hub between Macs, Google Shared Drives, and other media folders. Synology’s DSM 7 software is intuitive and accessible across devices, making it easy to manage storage and backups.

The DS725+ is a versatile solution for file servers, RAID setups, and hybrid cloud storage. Its performance is more than adequate for most users, though those needing 10GbE speeds may want to consider the DS723+ instead.

Final Verdict

The Synology DS725+ is a capable NAS that delivers solid performance and reliability. However, its positioning in Synology’s lineup is confusing, especially when compared to models like the DS723+. If you don’t need 10GbE speeds and find a good deal, the DS725+ is worth considering. Synology remains a trusted name in the NAS market, and this device is no exception.

Tags: NAS, Synology, DS725+, storage, network-attached storage, media server, RAID, cloud sync, DSM 7, 2.5GbE, NVMe caching, expandable storage, file server, hybrid storage, business NAS, tech review, viral tech, storage solutions.

Viral Sentences:

• “The Synology DS725+ is a solid NAS, but its confusing positioning makes it a tough sell.”
• “For users who don’t need blazing-fast speeds, the DS725+ is still a great choice.”
• “Synology’s DSM 7 software is so intuitive, you can manage your NAS from your iPhone or iPad.”
• “The DS725+ proves that Synology remains a trusted name in the NAS market.”
• “Is the Synology DS725+ the right NAS for your business? It depends on your needs and budget.”

,