Setting up a NAS for Time Machine backups in an office requires balancing performance, ease of use, and expandability. The best options include the Synology DS225+, known for its reliable performance and user-friendly interface, and the Buffalo LinkStation 720, which offers ample storage with included drives at a compelling price. The key tradeoffs often involve choosing between higher capacity, faster network speeds, and budget constraints. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of these options to find the best fit for your office needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Synology DS225+ combines strong performance with straightforward setup, making it ideal for small office environments.
- Including drives in the NAS bundle, like the Buffalo LinkStation 720, offers value but reduces flexibility for future upgrades.
- Diskless NAS options provide more customization but require additional effort to set up and configure properly.
- Network speed (1GbE vs. 2.5GbE) can significantly impact backup and access times, especially with larger data volumes.
- Expandability varies considerably; 4-bay models like the Synology DS425+ offer more room for future data growth compared to 2-bay units.
| Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS |  | Best Overall for Small Office Backup Simplicity | Brand: Synology | Model Number: DS223j | Number of Bays: 2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included |  | Best Value with Included Drives for Small Office Backup | Capacity: 8TB | Drive Bays: 2 | RAID Support: RAID 0, RAID 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS with 8TB Bundle (Intel Celeron J4125, 2GB RAM, Dual 2.5GbE, 1GbE LAN, Supports Third-Party Drives) |  | Best for Performance and Flexibility in Small Office Backup | Processor: Intel Celeron J4125 | Memory: 2 GB DDR4, expandable to 6 GB | Network Ports: 1 x 2.5 GbE, 1 x 1 GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F2-425 2-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless) |  | Best for Power and Multimedia in Home or Small Office Backup | Processor: Intel x86 quad-core | RAM: 4GB | Storage Capacity: Up to 60TB (2 x 30TB) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Large Capacity and Versatile RAID Options | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core | RAM: 1GB DDR4 | Hard Drive Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Buffalo LinkStation 720 16TB 2-Bay NAS Storage with Hard Drives Included |  | Best Overall for High-Capacity Office Backups | Storage Capacity: 16TB | Drive Bays: 2 | RAID Support: RAID 1 (default), RAID 0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Beginners and Small Teams | Brand: Synology | Model Number: DS223 | Number of Bays: 2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU |  | Best for Media-Driven Small Business Backup | Model: DS225+ | Type: 2-Bay Diskless NAS | Processor: Intel CPU | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Enterprise-Grade Office Backup & Surveillance | Brand: Synology | Model: DS425+ | Number of Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| nas for time machine backups in office | Warranty |
|---|---|
| Synology DiskStation DS223j | 2 years |
| BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2 | 3 years |
| Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStat | 2 years |
| TERRAMASTER F2-425 2-Bay NAS I | — |
| Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS12 | — |
| Buffalo LinkStation 720 16TB 2 | 2 years |
| Synology DS223 Home & Office 2 | 2 years |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud | 3 years |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | 3 years |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS
The Synology DS223j stands out for its user-friendly setup and reliable automated backup features, making it a solid choice for small offices needing straightforward Time Machine backups. Compared to the BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220, it offers a more intuitive interface and broader app ecosystem, though it lacks included drives and has only two bays—limiting maximum storage capacity. Its energy-efficient design ensures low running costs and quiet operation, ideal for shared office environments. However, the necessity of purchasing drives separately and the limited expandability mean it’s best suited for smaller-scale needs rather than large data warehouses. Best for small offices or teams prioritizing ease of use and secure cloud access.
Pros:- Creates a private cloud for secure data storage and sharing
- Supports automated backups for multiple devices
- Energy-efficient and quiet operation
Cons:- Limited to two bays, restricting maximum storage capacity
- Requires setup and familiarity with NAS systems
- No included drives, adding initial cost
Best for: Small office teams seeking reliable, easy-to-manage backups without large storage demands
Not ideal for: Organizations needing high-capacity storage or integrated drives, as the DS223j requires separate drive purchase and has limited bays
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:DS223j
- Number of Bays:2
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504004768
- Unit Count:1
Our verdict“This NAS suits small offices prioritizing simplicity, security, and energy efficiency for their backup needs.”
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included
The BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 offers an attractive combination of ease of use, included hard drives, and RAID options, making it ideal for small offices wanting ready-to-use backup and file sharing. Compared to the Synology DS225+, it provides a more straightforward setup with pre-installed drives, but it supports only up to macOS 15 and provides less advanced data protection features. Its RAID 1 setup ensures data security but halves usable capacity to 4TB, which might be limiting for growing teams. The USB direct copy feature simplifies backups from external devices, and the 3-year warranty adds peace of mind. Still, the limited OS support and modest capacity make it better suited for small, less demanding environments.
Pros:- Secure personal cloud with RAID for data protection
- Includes hard drives, ready for immediate use
- USB direct copy for quick backups
Cons:- Limited compatibility with macOS versions after macOS 15
- RAID 1 reduces usable capacity to 4TB
- No mention of mobile app support
Best for: Small teams needing an all-in-one, ready-to-go NAS with included drives and basic backup features
Not ideal for: Users requiring larger storage capacity or advanced data management, as RAID 1 halves effective space and OS support is limited
- Capacity:8TB
- Drive Bays:2
- RAID Support:RAID 0, RAID 1
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, 2.5 GbE
- Supported OS:Windows, macOS (up to macOS 15)
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS provides a simple, budget-friendly solution for small offices that want plug-and-play storage with included drives.”
Synology DS225+ 2-Bay DiskStation NAS with 8TB Bundle (Intel Celeron J4125, 2GB RAM, Dual 2.5GbE, 1GbE LAN, Supports Third-Party Drives)
The Synology DS225+ excels for small offices needing flexible, high-performing storage, thanks to its Intel Celeron J4125 processor and dual 2.5GbE ports. Compared with the DS223j, it offers better multitasking with 2GB RAM (expandable) and support for third-party drives, making it more adaptable for varied storage needs. Its advanced data protection with Btrfs and snapshot technology provides robust backup options, though its two-bay limit caps total capacity for larger datasets. The included 8TB bundle simplifies initial setup, but additional drives are necessary for expansion. This model is ideal for users who want a versatile, expandable NAS with solid performance.
Pros:- Supports third-party drives with DSM 7.3
- Dual 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast network access
- Expandable RAM for better multitasking and performance
Cons:- Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting maximum capacity
- Initial RAM of 2 GB may limit heavy multitasking
- Requires additional purchase for drives beyond the bundle
Best for: Small offices needing flexible storage options with room to expand and advanced data protection
Not ideal for: Organizations with extremely large storage needs or requiring a multi-bay configuration for higher capacity
- Processor:Intel Celeron J4125
- Memory:2 GB DDR4, expandable to 6 GB
- Network Ports:1 x 2.5 GbE, 1 x 1 GbE
- Drive Bays:2
- Supported Drives:SATA HDDs/SSDs, third-party compatible
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“This NAS offers a good balance of performance, flexibility, and data security for small office environments needing expandable storage.”
TERRAMASTER F2-425 2-Bay NAS Intel x86 Quad-Core CPU 4GB RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F2-425 delivers a compelling mix of power and multimedia capabilities, thanks to its Intel x86 quad-core processor and 4GB RAM, making it well-suited for tasks like 4K transcoding and multi-user access. Compared to the Synology DS223j, it provides a more robust hardware platform for demanding backup and media streaming, though it only has two bays, limiting maximum storage unless expanded externally. Its support for flexible RAID setups and quiet operation makes it attractive for home environments with multimedia needs. The diskless design adds initial cost but offers maximum flexibility for custom storage configurations. This pick is ideal for users requiring more processing power and multimedia features on a budget.
Pros:- Powerful quad-core processor with 4GB RAM for multitasking
- Supports 4K hardware decoding and multi-device streaming
- Quiet operation suitable for home or office environments
Cons:- Limited to 2 drive bays, reducing maximum capacity
- Additional cost for storage since it is diskless
- Requires network setup and configuration
Best for: Home users or small offices needing powerful multimedia support and flexible RAID options
Not ideal for: Offices needing large-scale, high-capacity storage or plug-and-play simplicity, as it requires additional drives and setup
- Processor:Intel x86 quad-core
- RAM:4GB
- Storage Capacity:Up to 60TB (2 x 30TB)
- Network Speed:2.5GbE
- Number of Bays:2
- Noise Level:19dB
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for users who prioritize processing power and multimedia support over maximum storage capacity.”
Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 AS1204T 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Drivestor 4 Gen 2 delivers versatility with four bays and support for various RAID configurations, making it a strong choice for those needing significant storage and redundancy. Compared with the Synology DS225+, it offers more bays and potential for larger storage arrays, though it relies on a less powerful quad-core Realtek processor and has only 1GB RAM, which could limit multitasking. Its 2.5GbE network port supports fast data transfer, and its media streaming capabilities add multimedia versatility. The diskless design means additional drives are needed, but the extra bays allow expanding storage as needs grow. This NAS is well-suited for users who want high capacity and flexible RAID options in a desktop form factor.
Pros:- Supports multiple RAID configurations for data redundancy
- Fast 2.5GbE network port for quick data transfer
- Supports 4K media streaming
Cons:- Limited RAM at 1GB, restricting multitasking performance
- Diskless setup requires additional hard drives
- Older processor may impact performance under heavy loads
Best for: Users seeking large, expandable storage with multiple RAID configurations in a home or small office
Not ideal for: Environments requiring high RAM for heavy multitasking or those preferring pre-installed drives, as it is diskless and RAM is limited
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B 1.7GHz Quad-Core
- RAM:1GB DDR4
- Hard Drive Bays:4
- Network:2.5GbE
- USB Ports:3 USB 3.0
- Item Dimensions:10″D x 6″W x 13″H
Our verdict“This NAS is best for users who need large, flexible storage options and RAID redundancy for reliable backups.”
Buffalo LinkStation 720 16TB 2-Bay NAS Storage with Hard Drives Included
The Buffalo LinkStation 720 stands out for its combination of large storage capacity and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for small offices that need reliable backups without complex setup. Compared to the Synology DS425+, it offers a more straightforward experience with included drives, but at the cost of less expandability and a reduced usable capacity due to RAID 1. Its performance, up to 7x faster than the previous LS 200, ensures backups and file sharing happen quickly, which is vital in busy office environments. Security features like SSL encryption and RAID support add peace of mind. However, with only 2 bays, expanding storage later involves replacing drives or adding another unit, a less flexible option than larger NAS systems. Network setup is required, which might challenge non-technical users. Overall, this device is ideal for offices prioritizing high capacity and simple management over extensive scalability.
Pros:- High storage capacity with included drives
- Secure data protection with RAID and SSL encryption
- Easy to share files securely across devices
Cons:- Default RAID 1 halves usable capacity to 8TB
- Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting scalability
Best for: Small offices or teams needing large, secure backups with minimal setup complexity.
Not ideal for: Growing businesses planning for future expansion or requiring extensive RAID configurations beyond RAID 1.
- Storage Capacity:16TB
- Drive Bays:2
- RAID Support:RAID 1 (default), RAID 0
- Compatibility:Windows, MacOS
- Performance:Up to 7x faster than LS 200
- Warranty:2 years
- Support:24/7 US-based support
Our verdict“Best suited for offices that need large, straightforward backups with included drives and simple sharing features.”
Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS223 offers an accessible entry point into NAS backups, combining reliable hardware with user-friendly management through DiskStation Manager. It’s ideal for users who want to create a private cloud and automate backups across multiple devices. Compared with the Synology DS225+, it lacks the more powerful processor and surveillance AI features, but its straightforward setup makes it perfect for non-technical office staff. Its two bays support RAID, but you’ll need to purchase drives separately, adding to initial costs. While not suited for large-scale storage needs, it provides enough capacity for small teams focused on data security and simple sharing. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind. This model makes the most sense for small offices or home-based businesses new to NAS solutions.
Pros:- Simple setup and management with DiskStation Manager
- Supports automated backups for multiple devices
- Includes surveillance features with IP camera support
Cons:- Limited to 2 bays, restricting future growth
- Requires separate purchase of drives, increasing initial cost
Best for: Small teams or home offices seeking easy-to-manage, automated backups without advanced surveillance or media features.
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring large storage capacity or complex enterprise management features.
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:DS223
- Number of Bays:2
- Item Type:NAS
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504004775
Our verdict“Ideal for small offices or beginners who want reliable, automated backups and basic surveillance features.”
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU
The Synology DS225+ combines robust media streaming with reliable backup capabilities, making it a strong choice for small offices that handle large media files or require AI surveillance features. Its Intel CPU and 282 MB/s transfer speed outperform basic NAS options like the DS223, supporting smooth 4K media playback and fast data transfers. Compared to the DS223, it offers added processing power and surveillance support for up to 30 IP cameras with AI detection, ideal for media-heavy environments. However, being diskless, it requires additional investment in drives, which can increase initial costs. Its complexity may challenge non-technical users, but the 3-year warranty provides reassurance. This pick suits users seeking a versatile device capable of handling media, backups, and surveillance in a single package.
Pros:- Supports 4K media streaming and personal cloud storage
- Fast transfer speeds and reliable backup options
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with AI detection
Cons:- Requires additional disks for storage, increasing upfront costs
- May be complex for users unfamiliar with NAS management
Best for: Small office or media-centric businesses needing a powerful, versatile NAS for backups, streaming, and surveillance.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, budget-friendly backup solution or those unwilling to manage additional drives.
- Model:DS225+
- Type:2-Bay Diskless NAS
- Processor:Intel CPU
- Transfer Speed:282 MB/s
- Surveillance Support:Up to 30 IP cameras
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Best for media-rich environments that need a flexible, high-performance NAS with surveillance capabilities.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ offers a powerful, scalable solution for offices with larger backup and surveillance needs. Its 4 bays and 2.5GbE network interfaces support high-speed data transfer, ideal for backing up multiple workstations or servers simultaneously. Compared to the DS225+, it provides four bays for more storage flexibility and better RAID options. Its multi-layered security—RAID, snapshots, and access controls—protects sensitive business data. The potential complexity of setup and management makes it better suited for users with some technical experience or IT support. Though it doesn’t include drives, its high-performance hardware and enterprise features justify the higher price point. This NAS is best for businesses needing a centralized, secure backup system with room for expansion and surveillance integration.
Pros:- High network speeds suitable for large data transfers
- Supports multiple users with granular access controls
- Multi-layered data protection including RAID and snapshots
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
- No included drives, adding to overall cost
Best for: Growing businesses or offices needing high-speed, scalable backups, and surveillance with advanced security features.
Not ideal for: Small teams or startups with minimal backup needs and limited technical expertise or budget.
- Brand:Synology
- Model:DS425+
- Number of Bays:4
- Item Count:1
- Warranty:3 years
- Network Speed:278 MB/s
- Supported Cameras:30 IP cameras
Our verdict“Ideal for larger offices requiring scalable, secure backups and surveillance with enterprise features and high-speed data transfer.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, ease of setup, expandability, and value for office environments. Reliability and compatibility with macOS Time Machine were key considerations, along with network speed and user interface quality. We prioritized models that strike a balance between affordability and feature set, ensuring they can handle typical office backup workloads without unnecessary complexity. The ranking reflects how well each NAS meets these criteria in real-world office scenarios, with a focus on long-term usability and support.Factors to Consider When Choosing Nas For Time Machine Backups In Office
Choosing the right NAS for Time Machine backups in an office setting involves understanding several key factors. Not all NAS devices are created equal, and what works well for a small team may fall short in a larger environment. Consider capacity, network speed, expandability, and ease of use to find a solution that fits your current needs and future growth. Making the right choice ensures reliable backups, smooth access, and minimal maintenance headaches.Capacity and Scalability
Start by assessing your current storage needs and future growth. Smaller offices may do well with 2-bay models, but larger teams or those with high data volume should consider 4-bay options for more room. Look for NAS devices that support third-party drives if you want flexibility and cost-effective expansion later. Avoid models with limited maximum capacity if you anticipate significant data growth, as upgrading later can be costly and complicated.
Network Speed and Connectivity
Network speed directly impacts backup times and data access. While 1GbE is standard, 2.5GbE or higher interfaces offer faster transfer rates, reducing wait times during backups and restores. For busy office environments with multiple users, investing in a NAS with higher network throughput is worth it. Also, check for multiple LAN ports or link aggregation capabilities to improve network resilience and performance.
Ease of Setup and User Interface
Since not all teams are technically inclined, a NAS with an intuitive setup process and user-friendly management interface can save hours of frustration. Brands like Synology excel in this area, offering guided setup and straightforward app ecosystems. Consider whether the NAS supports macOS-native features seamlessly, especially for Time Machine backups, to avoid compatibility issues that could compromise data safety.
Expandability and Future Proofing
Look for models that support additional drives or hardware upgrades. While 2-bay NAS units are compact and cheaper, 4-bay models provide more room for future storage needs without replacing the entire device. Also, check if the NAS supports faster network interfaces or RAM upgrades, which can extend its usefulness over time. Avoid overly limited models if your backup needs might grow rapidly.
Price and Total Cost of Ownership
While initial cost is important, consider the total cost including drives, maintenance, and potential expansions. Some bundles include drives, which simplifies setup but may limit upgrade flexibility. Conversely, diskless units offer lower upfront costs but require additional investment in drives and setup time. Balance your budget against the need for reliability and future-proofing to avoid costly replacements or upgrades later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a consumer NAS for office Time Machine backups?
Yes, consumer NAS devices can work for office Time Machine backups, but they may lack the robustness and scalability needed for larger teams. Consumer models often prioritize simplicity and affordability but may have limited network interfaces or expandability. For a small office with light backup needs, they can be sufficient, but for sustained reliability and growth, a business-grade NAS offers more durability and features tailored to office environments.
What is the ideal network speed for a NAS in an office?
For most office backup tasks, a 1GbE network suffices, but if your team handles large files or backups frequently, a 2.5GbE or higher setup can drastically reduce transfer times. Faster network speeds are especially worth considering if multiple users access or back up data simultaneously. Upgrading your network infrastructure to support higher speeds can improve overall efficiency and reduce backup windows.
Should I buy a NAS with drives included or diskless?
Buying a NAS with drives included simplifies setup and guarantees compatibility, making it ideal for users who want a quick, hassle-free solution. However, diskless models offer greater flexibility in choosing drives and capacity upgrades suited to your specific needs. If you already own reliable drives or want to customize your storage, a diskless NAS might be more cost-effective, but it does require additional setup effort.
How important is RAID support for Time Machine backups?
RAID support enhances data redundancy, which protects against drive failure—a key consideration in an office setting. Many NAS devices offer RAID configurations, providing peace of mind that backups are safe even if a drive fails. If data integrity and uptime are priorities, choosing a model with RAID support is advisable, especially for critical backups or larger datasets.
What is the best way to ensure my NAS is secure in an office environment?
Securing your NAS involves enabling encryption, setting strong passwords, and keeping firmware updated. Network security measures like VLANs and firewalls add layers of protection against unauthorized access. Additionally, regular backups of the NAS configuration itself can save time if recovery is needed. Choosing a device with built-in security features and good manufacturer support helps maintain data safety in an office setting.
Conclusion
For small offices seeking a reliable, straightforward backup solution, the Synology DS225+ offers a balanced mix of performance, expandability, and user-friendliness, making it the best overall choice. Budget-conscious teams will appreciate the Buffalo LinkStation 720 with included drives for its value. Larger or growing offices aiming for maximum capacity and future-proofing should consider the Synology DS425+ or Asustor Drivestor 4. Beginners should prioritize models with simple setup, while advanced users can benefit from flexible, higher-end configurations with more bays and faster network interfaces.
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