The TerraMaster F4-424 stands out as a compelling 4-bay NAS solution, especially for small to medium-sized businesses and power users seeking a balance of performance, features, and value.

Its Intel N95 processor, 8GB of DDR5 RAM, and dual 2.5GbE ports provide a robust foundation for demanding tasks like 4K video transcoding, virtual machine hosting, and high-speed data transfers, distinguishing it from many entry-level alternatives.

While not reaching the enterprise-grade speeds of higher-end solutions, the F4-424 delivers impressive real-world performance, making it a strong contender for those looking to centralize data, enhance collaboration, and protect digital assets without breaking the bank.

Here’s how the TerraMaster F4-424 stacks up against some popular alternatives:

Feature/Model	TerraMaster F4-424	Synology DiskStation DS923+	QNAP TS-464	ASUSTOR Drivestor 4 Pro AS3304T	Western Digital My Cloud EX4100	TrueNAS Mini E+	Buffalo TeraStation 5410DN
CPU	Intel N95	AMD Ryzen R1600	Intel Celeron N5105	Realtek RTD1619B	Marvell ARMADA 388 Dual-Core	Intel Atom C3558	Annapurna Labs Alpine AL314
RAM Standard	8GB DDR5	4GB DDR4 Expandable	4GB DDR4 Expandable	2GB DDR4	2GB DDR3	8GB DDR4 ECC	4GB DDR3
Max Bays	4	4 Expandable with DX517	4	4	4	4	4
Ethernet Ports	2x 2.5GbE	2x 1GbE Optional 10GbE via PCIe	2x 2.5GbE	1x 2.5GbE	2x 1GbE	2x 10GbE, 2x 1GbE	2x 1GbE
M.2 NVMe Slots	2	2	2	0	0	2	0
Operating System	TOS TerraMaster Operating System	DSM DiskStation Manager	QTS QNAP Turbo NAS System	ADM ASUSTOR Data Master	My Cloud OS 5	TrueNAS CORE/SCALE	Buffalo NAS OS
Transcoding	Yes Hardware H.264/H.265	Yes Software	Yes Hardware H.264/H.265	Yes Software	Limited	Software CPU dependent	Limited
Virtualization	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited	No	Yes	No
Price Approx.	Mid-range	Higher-end	Mid-range	Entry-level/Mid-range	Entry-level	Higher-end	Mid-range/Enterprise

Table of Contents

Unpacking the Hardware: Power and Connectivity

When you first get your hands on the TerraMaster F4-424, the hardware specifications are immediately noticeable. This isn’t just another incremental update.

It’s a significant leap forward, particularly with its processor and memory configuration.

TerraMaster has clearly listened to user feedback and engineered a NAS that can handle modern demands without breaking a sweat.

The Brains of the Operation: Intel N95 Processor

At the core of the F4-424 is the Intel N95 processor. This isn’t a desktop-grade powerhouse, but for a NAS, it’s remarkably capable.

Performance Leap: The N95 offers a substantial performance boost over the Jasper Lake Celeron processors found in many previous generation NAS devices. We’re talking about improved multi-core performance, which is crucial for handling concurrent tasks like multiple user access, backup operations, and media transcoding.
Efficiency: Despite its enhanced performance, the N95 maintains excellent power efficiency, which is vital for a device designed to run 24/7. Lower power consumption translates to lower operating costs and a reduced environmental footprint.
Integrated Graphics: While not a gaming machine, the integrated Intel UHD graphics in the N95 are more than capable of handling 4K video transcoding, a key feature for media enthusiasts looking to stream content to various devices.

Memory Matters: 8GB DDR5 RAM

The inclusion of 8GB of DDR5 RAM is another highlight that sets the F4-424 apart.

Speed and Capacity: DDR5 RAM offers significantly higher bandwidth compared to DDR4, improving overall system responsiveness. 8GB is a generous amount for a 4-bay NAS, providing ample headroom for:
- Running multiple applications simultaneously.
- Handling numerous concurrent connections.
- Supporting virtual machines or Docker containers without performance degradation.
Future-Proofing: While it’s fixed at 8GB and not user-upgradable, 8GB DDR5 is robust enough for most current and near-future NAS workloads. It’s a smart choice for users who want to deploy the NAS and not worry about memory limitations for a considerable period.

Blazing Fast Networking: Dual 2.5GbE Ports

Network connectivity is often a bottleneck in NAS systems, but TerraMaster has addressed this with dual 2.5GbE ports.

Beyond Gigabit: This is a crucial upgrade from standard Gigabit Ethernet. With two 2.5GbE ports, you can achieve theoretical speeds of up to 5Gbps when aggregated Link Aggregation, or dedicate one port for high-speed uploads and another for high-speed downloads.
Real-World Impact: For users with 2.5GbE-capable networks, this means significantly faster file transfers, especially for large files like 4K video projects or extensive photo libraries. Even if your current network is Gigabit, having 2.5GbE future-proofs your investment as you upgrade your switches and clients.
Comparison: Many competitors still rely on 1GbE as standard, making the F4-424 a strong contender for those prioritizing network throughput.

SSD Caching and Storage Expansion: M.2 NVMe Slots

The F4-424 comes equipped with two M.2 NVMe SSD slots.

Performance Boost: These slots are primarily used for SSD caching, which can dramatically improve the performance of frequently accessed data by reducing latency. This is particularly beneficial for:
- Databases.
- Virtual machine disk images.
- Frequently accessed shared folders.
Flexible Storage: While designed for caching, some users might explore alternative uses for these slots in the future, depending on TerraMaster’s software updates. It adds another layer of flexibility to the storage architecture.
Direct Installation: The M.2 slots are easily accessible, allowing for straightforward installation of NVMe drives without needing any special adapters.

Software Ecosystem: TOS 5 and Beyond

The operating system is the soul of any NAS, and for TerraMaster, that’s TOS TerraMaster Operating System. The F4-424 ships with or is compatible with TOS 5, which represents a significant maturation of TerraMaster’s software platform, bringing it closer in functionality and user experience to more established players like Synology’s DSM or QNAP’s QTS.

User Interface and Experience UI/UX

TOS 5 offers a modern and intuitive graphical user interface GUI.

Desktop-like Experience: The UI is designed to feel like a desktop operating system, with a taskbar, customizable desktop, and multi-window support for applications. This makes navigation and managing tasks relatively straightforward, even for users new to NAS.
Ease of Use: Common tasks like creating storage pools, setting up users, and configuring shared folders are guided by wizards, simplifying the setup process.
Responsiveness: Thanks to the F4-424’s capable hardware, the TOS 5 interface feels snappy and responsive, without the lag sometimes associated with less powerful NAS devices.

Core NAS Functions and Data Management

TOS 5 provides all the essential features you’d expect from a modern NAS. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review

Flexible Storage Management:
- RAID Support: Supports various RAID levels including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, JBOD, and Single Disk, allowing users to balance performance and data redundancy according to their needs.
- Storage Pools and Volumes: Easy creation and management of storage pools and volumes, offering flexibility in how disk space is utilized.
- Snapshots: Crucial for data protection, TOS 5 supports Btrfs snapshots, allowing users to create point-in-time copies of data that can be quickly restored, protecting against accidental deletions or ransomware attacks.
File Sharing Protocols: Comprehensive support for common network file sharing protocols:
- SMB/CIFS: For Windows and macOS clients.
- AFP: Optimized for macOS.
- NFS: For Linux/Unix environments.
- FTP/SFTP: For secure file transfer.
User and Group Management: Robust user and group permission settings, allowing granular control over who can access what data and with what privileges.

Application Ecosystem and TOS 5’s App Center

TerraMaster’s App Center is where the system’s functionality can be extended, and it’s continually growing.

Essential Applications: Includes core applications for backups, media management, cloud synchronization, and more.
Third-Party Apps: While not as extensive as Synology’s or QNAP’s, TerraMaster’s App Center now includes popular third-party applications, often via Docker containers, which is a major advantage.
- Plex Media Server: For organizing and streaming your media library.
- Docker: A game-changer for extending functionality, allowing users to deploy a vast array of containerized applications without directly installing them on the NAS OS. This opens up possibilities for home automation, self-hosting services, and much more.
- WordPress, Nextcloud, etc.: Many popular web services can be run via Docker.
Continuous Development: TerraMaster is actively developing and expanding its application library, indicating a commitment to improving the software experience.

Backup and Synchronization Capabilities

Data protection is paramount for any NAS, and TOS 5 offers a suite of tools.

Local and Remote Backups:
- TerraSync: For syncing files between the NAS and client devices.
- Duplicati/Hyper Backup via Docker: For backing up data to local storage, remote NAS, public cloud services S3, Dropbox, Google Drive, or even another TerraMaster NAS.
Cloud Synchronization: Built-in support for syncing with major cloud storage providers like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Amazon S3. This allows for hybrid cloud deployments, ensuring data availability and off-site backups.
USB Copy: Simple one-touch or scheduled backups to external USB drives.

Performance Benchmarks: Real-World Scenarios

While specifications are important, real-world performance is what truly matters.

The TerraMaster F4-424, with its Intel N95 CPU and dual 2.5GbE ports, is designed to excel in common NAS use cases.

We’ll look at various scenarios to understand its capabilities.

File Transfer Speeds: Large Files vs. Small Files

Network file transfer performance is the most fundamental benchmark for a NAS.

Large Sequential Files: When transferring large files e.g., 4K video files, ISO images, the F4-424 leverages its 2.5GbE ports effectively.
- Single 2.5GbE: Expect speeds close to the theoretical maximum of 2.5GbE, often around 280 MB/s for reads and 250 MB/s for writes with suitable drives SSDs or fast HDDs in RAID 5/6. This is a significant improvement over 1GbE approx. 110 MB/s.
- Link Aggregation LAG: If your network infrastructure supports it, aggregating the two 2.5GbE ports can push speeds closer to 5Gbps for concurrent transfers or specific multi-client scenarios, achieving 400-500 MB/s in ideal conditions, though individual client speeds will still be capped by their respective network interfaces.
Small Random Files: Transferring a large number of small files e.g., photos, document libraries is more taxing on the CPU and disk I/O. The F4-424 performs admirably here, demonstrating good responsiveness thanks to the N95 processor and optional SSD caching.
- Speeds will be lower than sequential transfers, but the F4-424 still offers a noticeable improvement over less powerful NAS devices. Tens of MB/s for random read/write of thousands of small files is typical.

Media Transcoding Capabilities: Plex and Emby

The Intel N95 processor’s integrated graphics play a crucial role in media transcoding.

4K H.264/H.265 Transcoding: The F4-424 is capable of hardware-accelerated 4K HEVC/H.265 and H.264 transcoding via Plex Media Server or Emby installed via Docker. This means you can stream high-resolution content to devices that don’t natively support the codec or have limited bandwidth.
- It can typically handle one or two concurrent 4K transcodes down to 1080p without significant buffering, depending on the bitrate and specific codec complexity. This is a massive win for home media enthusiasts.
1080p Transcoding: The F4-424 can easily handle multiple concurrent 1080p transcodes 3-5 streams or more, making it an excellent choice for a household with diverse media consumption habits.
Subtitles and Audio: The transcoding engine generally handles common subtitle formats and audio tracks well, though performance can vary slightly with complex audio re-encoding requirements.

Virtual Machine and Container Performance Docker

The 8GB DDR5 RAM and Intel N95 CPU make the F4-424 a viable platform for light virtualization and containerization.

Docker Containers: This is where the F4-424 truly shines for advanced users. Running multiple Docker containers e.g., Home Assistant, AdGuard Home, Nextcloud, custom web servers is well within its capabilities. The ample RAM ensures that containers have enough resources without impacting the core NAS functions.
Virtual Machines Lightweight: While not designed as a primary virtualization server, the F4-424 can host one or two lightweight virtual machines e.g., a basic Linux distribution, a small Windows Server instance for specific tasks. Performance will be adequate for non-intensive workloads, but don’t expect workstation-level VM performance. SSD caching can significantly boost VM responsiveness.

Backup and Synchronization Speeds

The speed at which the F4-424 can perform backups and synchronize data is critical. Asus Zenbook 14X Oled Q420 Review

Network Backups: Leveraging the 2.5GbE ports, backups from client machines to the NAS are significantly faster than on Gigabit networks, especially for large datasets.
Cloud Synchronization: Speeds for syncing with cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox will primarily be limited by your internet connection’s upload and download speeds, rather than the NAS itself. The F4-424’s CPU is more than capable of handling the encryption and processing overheads for multiple cloud sync tasks concurrently.
USB Backups: Transferring data to external USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives connected to the F4-424 is also fast, often exceeding 100 MB/s, making local backups quick and efficient.

Data Protection and Security Features

A NAS isn’t just about storage. it’s about safeguarding your digital life.

The TerraMaster F4-424, combined with TOS 5, offers a robust set of features to protect your data from various threats, whether accidental deletion, hardware failure, or malicious attacks.

RAID Levels and Disk Redundancy

The foundation of data protection in any NAS is RAID Redundant Array of Independent Disks.

Multiple RAID Options: The F4-424 supports a comprehensive range of RAID configurations:
- RAID 0: For maximum speed, but no redundancy not recommended for critical data.
- RAID 1: Mirroring, excellent for two drives, but only half the total capacity is usable.
- RAID 5: Single disk parity, good balance of performance, capacity, and redundancy can withstand one drive failure. Ideal for 3 or more drives.
- RAID 6: Double disk parity, provides higher redundancy can withstand two simultaneous drive failures. Recommended for mission-critical data with 4 or more drives.
- RAID 10: Combines mirroring and striping for high performance and redundancy can withstand multiple drive failures, but uses 50% of capacity. Requires 4 or more drives.
- JBOD Just a Bunch Of Disks: Combines drives into a single logical unit without redundancy.
- Single Disk: Each disk is independent.
Hot Swapping: The F4-424 bays are hot-swappable, meaning you can replace a failed drive without shutting down the NAS, minimizing downtime during a drive failure.
Disk Health Monitoring: TOS 5 provides tools to monitor the health of your hard drives via S.M.A.R.T. Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology data, allowing you to proactively replace failing drives before they lead to data loss.

Snapshots and Versioning

Snapshots are a critical feature for recovery from accidental deletion, file corruption, or ransomware.

Btrfs File System Support: The F4-424 supports the Btrfs file system, which enables advanced features like snapshots.
Point-in-Time Recovery: Snapshots allow you to create point-in-time copies of your data volumes. If files are accidentally deleted, modified incorrectly, or encrypted by ransomware, you can easily revert to a previous snapshot, recovering your data to an uncompromised state.
Scheduled Snapshots: You can schedule snapshots to be taken automatically at regular intervals e.g., hourly, daily, weekly, ensuring continuous protection.
Immutable Snapshots Potential Feature: While not explicitly stated for TOS 5.1/5.2, enterprise-grade NAS often offer immutable snapshots, preventing even administrators from deleting them for a set period, adding an extra layer of ransomware protection. It’s a feature to look for in future updates.

Network Security and Access Control

Protecting your NAS from unauthorized access is crucial.

Firewall: TOS 5 includes a configurable firewall, allowing you to control which IP addresses or networks can access your NAS and which ports are open. This is a fundamental security measure.
IP Blocking/Auto Block: Automatically blocks IP addresses that make repeated failed login attempts, thwarting brute-force attacks.
2-Step Verification: Enhances login security by requiring a second form of verification e.g., a code from a mobile authenticator app in addition to your password. Highly recommended.
HTTPS/SSL/TLS: Secure web access to the NAS management interface using encrypted connections HTTPS to prevent eavesdropping on your login credentials and data.
VPN Server/Client: The F4-424 can act as a VPN server, allowing you to securely access your NAS and home network from outside, or as a VPN client to route its traffic through a VPN service for enhanced privacy.
User and Folder Permissions: Granular access control for users and groups, allowing you to define read-only, read/write, or no access permissions for specific folders and files.

Encryption and Data Integrity

Ensuring the privacy and integrity of your data.

AES 256-bit Volume Encryption: You can encrypt shared folders or entire volumes with AES 256-bit encryption. This protects your data even if the physical drives are removed from the NAS, as they will be unreadable without the encryption key.
- Performance Impact: While encryption is vital for security, it can incur a slight performance overhead. However, with the N95 processor, the impact is generally minimal for typical home and small business use.
Antivirus Optional/Via Docker: While TOS doesn’t have a built-in comprehensive antivirus like some competitors, you can often deploy containerized antivirus solutions via Docker to scan your NAS for malware.
Data Integrity Check: Btrfs, the underlying file system, offers data integrity checks, which can help detect and repair silent data corruption bit rot.

Power Consumption and Acoustics

When a device is designed to run 24/7, its power consumption and noise levels become significant factors.

The TerraMaster F4-424, being a modern NAS, aims for efficiency and quiet operation.

Power Consumption

The F4-424’s Intel N95 processor is chosen not just for performance but also for its efficiency, based on Intel’s Atom and Celeron lineage.

Idle Power Consumption: In a typical idle state with HDDs spun down, the F4-424 is expected to consume around 10-15 Watts. This is highly competitive for a 4-bay NAS with this level of processing power.
Active Power Consumption: Under load e.g., heavy file transfers, media transcoding, consumption will increase, but it typically remains efficient, ranging from 25-40 Watts depending on the number and type of drives installed SSDs consume less than HDDs and the workload.
HDD Spin-Down: TOS allows you to configure hard drive spin-down timers, which can significantly reduce power consumption when the NAS is idle, as spinning hard drives are one of the primary power draws.
Scheduled Power On/Off: You can schedule the NAS to power on and off at specific times, further conserving energy if it’s not needed 24/7 e.g., turn off overnight or on weekends for a small office.
Wake-on-LAN WoL: Supports WoL, allowing you to remotely power on the NAS from a powered-off state, adding convenience while still enabling power savings.

Acoustics Noise Levels

The F4-424’s noise output is primarily determined by its cooling fan and the hard drives installed. Lenovo Thinkpad Z16 Gen 2 Review

Fan Noise: TerraMaster typically uses a single large fan at the rear to cool the drives and internal components.
- Quiet Operation: In idle or light load scenarios, the fan is generally very quiet, often barely audible in a quiet room. The N95 processor generates less heat than higher-performance CPUs, allowing the fan to spin at lower RPMs.
- Under Load: When the system is under heavy load e.g., intense file transfers, 4K transcoding, the fan may spin up, becoming more noticeable, but it’s rarely described as “loud.” It’s more of a gentle hum than a distracting whine.
Hard Drive Noise: This is often the most significant source of noise for any NAS.
- Vibration Dampening: TerraMaster’s drive trays often include rubber grommets to help dampen vibrations from the hard drives, reducing noise transmitted to the chassis.
- Drive Choice: The specific hard drives you choose will have the biggest impact on overall noise. Enterprise or NAS-specific drives like Western Digital Red Plus or Seagate IronWolf are designed for 24/7 operation and typically produce less noise than desktop drives.
- Spinning Up/Down: The sound of drives spinning up or down can be noticeable, especially if you have spin-down enabled.
Overall Assessment: The F4-424 is generally considered a quiet NAS, suitable for placement in a home office or living room. It’s not silent, especially if you have it in a very quiet environment and use active HDDs, but it’s far from being a noisy distraction. Those who are highly sensitive to noise might consider placing it in a closet or dedicated network cabinet.

Use Cases: Who is the TerraMaster F4-424 For?

It strikes a balance between performance, features, and cost, making it an excellent choice for specific scenarios.

1. Home Media Server Enthusiasts

This is arguably one of the F4-424’s strongest use cases.

4K Transcoding: With the Intel N95’s integrated graphics, the F4-424 can handle hardware-accelerated 4K H.264/H.265 video transcoding for Plex or Emby. This means you can store your entire high-resolution media library on the NAS and stream it seamlessly to any device smart TV, tablet, phone, game console, regardless of its native codec support or network bandwidth.
Centralized Media Storage: Consolidate all your movies, TV shows, podcast, and photos in one accessible location.
Multi-Client Streaming: Capable of handling multiple concurrent 1080p transcodes, allowing different family members to stream different content simultaneously without buffering issues.
Storage Capacity: Four drive bays offer ample space for vast media collections, easily scaling to tens of terabytes with high-capacity drives.

2. Small Office / Home Office SOHO Data Hub

For small businesses and home offices, the F4-424 provides a robust, cost-effective solution for centralized data management.

Shared File Storage: Create shared network drives for team collaboration, ensuring everyone has access to the latest versions of documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Centralized Backups: Act as a central backup target for all computers in the office, protecting critical business data.
Version Control with Snapshots: Btrfs snapshots provide a safety net against accidental deletions, file corruption, and ransomware, allowing quick restoration of data to a previous state.
Secure Remote Access: Use the built-in VPN server or secure file sharing protocols SFTP, HTTPS to allow employees to access files securely from outside the office.
Lightweight Server Hosting: Deploy lightweight web servers, CRM tools, or project management applications via Docker containers.

3. Photography and Videography Professionals/Hobbyists

Creative professionals deal with large files that require fast access and robust storage.

High-Speed Transfers: The dual 2.5GbE ports are a must for transferring large RAW photo files or high-resolution video projects from workstations to the NAS.
Project Archiving: Efficiently archive completed projects, freeing up local workstation storage while maintaining accessibility.
Collaboration: Multiple editors or photographers can work on shared assets stored on the NAS, improving workflow efficiency.
Data Redundancy: RAID configurations e.g., RAID 5 or RAID 6 protect valuable creative work from drive failures.
Photo Management: Integration with photo management software often via Docker can help organize and browse large image libraries.

4. Advanced Users and IT Enthusiasts Docker/Virtualization

For users who want more than just basic file storage, the F4-424 offers significant extensibility.

Docker Containerization: The 8GB DDR5 RAM and N95 CPU are ideal for running a variety of Docker containers, turning the NAS into a versatile home lab server.
- Home Automation: Run Home Assistant for smart home control.
- Ad Blocking: Deploy AdGuard Home for network-wide ad blocking.
- Self-Hosting: Host your own Nextcloud instance for personal cloud storage, a lightweight web server, or a private Git repository.
- VPN Server: Set up your own OpenVPN or WireGuard server.
Light Virtual Machines: While not its primary role, the F4-424 can host one or two lightweight virtual machines for specific Linux-based applications or testing environments.
Network Service Hosting: Host DNS, DHCP, or other network services for more control over your home network.

5. Personal Cloud and Backup Solution

For individuals looking to move away from public cloud services or enhance their backup strategy. Lenovo Thinkpad E14 Gen 5 Review

Personal Cloud: Create your own personal cloud for file access and synchronization across all your devices, giving you full control over your data.
Centralized Backup Target: A single, reliable location to back up all your computers Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile devices.
Off-site Sync: Utilize the cloud synchronization features to mirror critical data to public cloud services for an additional layer of off-site protection the 3-2-1 backup strategy.
Photo Backup: Automatic backup of photos from smartphones using mobile apps.

Comparison to Competitors: Synology, QNAP, and ASUSTOR

The NAS market is highly competitive, dominated by a few key players.

While TerraMaster has been around for a while, they’ve aggressively improved their offerings, and the F4-424 positions them strongly against the established giants.

Let’s see how it compares to popular alternatives from Synology, QNAP, and ASUSTOR.

TerraMaster F4-424 vs. Synology DiskStation DS923+

The Synology DS923+ is often seen as the F4-424’s closest rival in terms of bay count and target audience, though with different strengths.

CPU & RAM:
- F4-424: Intel N95, 8GB DDR5 fixed. Better for hardware transcoding and possibly better multi-core for general tasks.
- DS923+: AMD Ryzen R1600, 4GB DDR4 upgradable to 32GB. The R1600 is powerful for general NAS tasks but lacks integrated graphics for hardware transcoding. RAM upgradability is a big plus for heavy virtualization or future-proofing.
Networking:
- F4-424: Dual 2.5GbE built-in. Ready for fast networks out of the box.
- DS923+: Dual 1GbE built-in, but has a PCIe slot for optional 10GbE upgrade. This means an additional cost for 10GbE, but it offers even higher speeds than 2.5GbE if needed.
M.2 NVMe: Both have two M.2 NVMe slots for caching.
Software OS:
- F4-424: TOS 5. Improving rapidly, good UI, strong Docker support.
- DS923+: DSM DiskStation Manager. Industry-leading software ecosystem, extensive apps, mature features, excellent mobile apps, strong community support. This is Synology’s primary differentiator.
Price: F4-424 generally offers better hardware for the price, especially considering the built-in 2.5GbE and 8GB DDR5. The DS923+ is often more expensive, and additional upgrades RAM, 10GbE card add to the cost.
Verdict:
- Choose F4-424 if hardware transcoding Plex, built-in 2.5GbE, and a strong value proposition are your priorities, and you’re comfortable with a rapidly maturing software platform or primarily use Docker.
- Choose DS923+ if you prioritize a highly mature and extensive software ecosystem DSM, extensive app store, enterprise-grade backup solutions, and the flexibility of RAM/10GbE upgrades, even if it comes at a higher initial cost.

TerraMaster F4-424 vs. QNAP TS-464

The QNAP TS-464 is perhaps the most direct competitor, sharing many similar hardware characteristics.
* F4-424: Intel N95, 8GB DDR5.
* TS-464: Intel Celeron N5105, 4GB DDR4 upgradable to 16GB. The N95 in the F4-424 is a newer generation and offers a performance edge over the N5105. QNAP’s RAM is upgradable, which is a definite advantage for heavy multi-tasking or VM use.

Networking: Both have dual 2.5GbE ports.
- F4-424: TOS 5.
- TS-464: QTS QNAP Turbo NAS System. Similar to Synology in its maturity and breadth of features, with strong virtualization support Virtualization Station, Container Station and a rich app ecosystem. QNAP is often seen as more “power user” oriented, sometimes with a steeper learning curve than Synology.
Price: Pricing is often very similar between the F4-424 and TS-464, with the F4-424 sometimes offering a slight edge due to the newer CPU and more base RAM.
- Choose F4-424 for slightly better raw CPU performance and out-of-the-box 8GB DDR5, especially if media transcoding is a primary focus.
- Choose TS-464 if you need upgradable RAM for more demanding VM workloads, or if you prefer QNAP’s specific software features and ecosystem, which can be more geared towards advanced networking and virtualization.

TerraMaster F4-424 vs. ASUSTOR Drivestor 4 Pro AS3304T

The ASUSTOR Drivestor 4 Pro AS3304T is typically a more budget-friendly option, with a different performance profile.
* F4-424: Intel N95, 8GB DDR5. Significantly more powerful CPU and RAM.
* AS3304T: Realtek RTD1619B, 2GB DDR4 fixed. This is an ARM-based CPU, less powerful than Intel x86 CPUs, and 2GB RAM is very limiting for advanced applications.
* F4-424: Dual 2.5GbE.
* AS3304T: Single 2.5GbE.

M.2 NVMe:
- F4-424: 2 M.2 NVMe slots.
- AS3304T: No M.2 NVMe slots.
- AS3304T: ADM ASUSTOR Data Master. A solid, user-friendly OS with a decent app store, but its performance is limited by the hardware.
Price: The AS3304T is significantly cheaper.
- Choose F4-424 if performance, 4K transcoding, virtualization, Docker, and future-proofing are important. It’s a significantly more capable machine.
- Choose AS3304T if you have a very strict budget and only need basic file storage, backups, and minimal media streaming not 4K transcoding without demanding applications. It’s a good entry-level 2.5GbE NAS, but it doesn’t compete on raw power with the F4-424.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

When investing in a NAS, especially one designed to be the central hub for your data, it’s crucial to consider its longevity and adaptability to future needs.

The TerraMaster F4-424 is designed with several aspects that contribute to its future-proofing.

Hardware Specifications for Longevity

The core hardware components of the F4-424 are significant factors in its long-term viability. Ricoh 132 Mf Review

8GB DDR5 RAM: The generous 8GB of faster DDR5 RAM is a major advantage. While it’s not user-upgradable, 8GB is sufficient for most current home and small business NAS workloads, including multiple Docker containers and light VMs. The higher bandwidth of DDR5 also ensures that memory access isn’t a bottleneck, contributing to overall system responsiveness.
Dual 2.5GbE Ports: This is perhaps the most significant future-proofing feature in terms of networking. While 1GbE is still common, 2.5GbE is becoming the new baseline for faster home and small office networks. Having two of these ports built-in means you’re ready for faster internet connections, multi-gig switches, and quicker transfers between client devices without needing expensive add-on cards. This significantly extends the usable life of the NAS in a high-speed network environment.
M.2 NVMe Slots: The inclusion of two NVMe slots for caching or potential future storage pool expansion, depending on TOS updates ensures that the NAS can leverage the fastest available storage technology for critical data access, maintaining high performance as demands grow.

Software Updates and Ecosystem Development

TerraMaster’s commitment to improving TOS is key to the F4-424’s future relevance.

TOS 5 Evolution: TerraMaster has consistently released updates for TOS 5, adding new features, improving performance, and patching security vulnerabilities. A track record of regular and meaningful software updates is crucial for the long-term usability and security of any NAS.
Docker Integration: The robust support for Docker is a massive future-proofing element. Docker allows users to run a vast array of third-party applications and services, independent of TerraMaster’s native app store. This means that even if TerraMaster doesn’t directly offer a specific app in the future, you can likely deploy it via Docker, ensuring continued functionality and flexibility. This effectively makes the NAS adaptable to new technologies and services as they emerge.
Security Patches: Ongoing security updates are vital to protect against new threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring your data remains secure over time.

Expandability and Scalability

While the F4-424 is a 4-bay unit, there are considerations for how it can scale.

Drive Capacity Growth: As hard drive capacities continue to increase, the F4-424 can accommodate larger drives, allowing you to expand your total storage capacity without replacing the entire unit. For example, if you start with 4x 8TB drives, you can later upgrade to 4x 20TB drives, significantly increasing your storage.
External USB Storage: The presence of USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports allows for fast external storage expansion, useful for backups or adding temporary storage without occupying internal bays.
Potential for Future Expansion Units: While TerraMaster doesn’t currently offer proprietary expansion units like Synology’s DX series, the trend in the industry suggests such options might emerge, further enhancing scalability for high-end models. However, for most home and small business users, 4 bays with large drives typically suffice for many years.

Optimizing Performance: Tips and Tricks

Getting the most out of your TerraMaster F4-424 means understanding how to optimize its performance beyond just plugging it in.

From hardware choices to software configurations, a few tweaks can significantly enhance your experience.

1. Choose the Right Hard Drives/SSDs

The type of storage drives you install has the most significant impact on performance.

NAS-Specific HDDs: For bulk storage, always opt for NAS-specific hard drives like Western Digital Red Plus/Pro or Seagate IronWolf/Pro series. These drives are designed for 24/7 operation, vibration resistance in multi-drive enclosures, and typically offer better long-term reliability and performance in a RAID environment.
SSD Caching: Utilize the two M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching. This is by far the most impactful upgrade for improving random read/write performance for frequently accessed data, databases, and virtual machines.
- Read-only Cache: Good for data that is read often but written less frequently e.g., media files, documents.
- Read-write Cache: Provides performance benefits for both reads and writes, but requires careful consideration of data integrity during power failures TerraMaster usually handles this with write-back caching and data protection.
All-Flash Array AFA: For extreme performance, you could populate all four 3.5-inch bays with 2.5-inch SATA SSDs with adapters. While expensive, this would maximize I/O performance for highly demanding applications, though it might be overkill for most users.

2. Configure RAID Levels Wisely

Your RAID configuration impacts both performance and data redundancy.

RAID 5 3+ drives: Good balance of capacity, performance, and single-drive redundancy. This is often the sweet spot for a 4-bay NAS.
RAID 6 4 drives: Offers higher redundancy two-drive failure tolerance at the cost of slightly reduced capacity and write performance. Recommended for critical data.
RAID 10 4 drives: Excellent performance for both reads and writes, along with high redundancy, but sacrifices 50% of your total capacity.
Avoid RAID 0: Unless you absolutely prioritize speed over any data loss risk e.g., for temporary video editing scratch disks that are backed up elsewhere, avoid RAID 0 for critical data due to no redundancy.

3. Optimize Network Configuration

Leveraging the dual 2.5GbE ports is crucial for network throughput.

2.5GbE Infrastructure: To benefit from 2.5GbE, ensure your entire network path supports it:
- 2.5GbE Switch: Connect your F4-424 to a 2.5GbE switch.
- 2.5GbE Clients: Your client devices PC, Mac, server should also have 2.5GbE network adapters.
- Cat5e/Cat6 Cabling: Standard Ethernet cables Cat5e or better can generally support 2.5GbE up to 100 meters.
Link Aggregation LAG/LACP: If your switch supports it, enable Link Aggregation on both the NAS and the switch. This can provide:
- Increased Bandwidth: Up to 5Gbps for multiple concurrent connections.
- Load Balancing: Distributes network traffic across both links.
- Failover: If one link fails, traffic continues over the other.
Jumbo Frames: Consider enabling Jumbo Frames e.g., 9000 bytes on both the NAS and all connected network devices switch, clients. This reduces CPU overhead for large data transfers by sending larger packets, potentially increasing throughput for sequential transfers. Ensure all devices in the path support it.

4. Fine-Tune TOS 5 Settings

The operating system offers various settings that can impact performance.

Disable Unused Services: Go to “Control Panel” -> “Services” and disable any network services e.g., FTP, WebDAV, SSH, SNMP you don’t actively use. This frees up system resources and enhances security.
SSD Cache Pinning if available: Some NAS OS allow “pinning” certain files or folders to the SSD cache, ensuring they always get the highest performance, even if they’re not frequently accessed. Check TOS documentation for this feature.
Avoid Unnecessary Apps: Only install applications from the App Center that you genuinely need. Each running application consumes CPU and RAM resources.
Schedule Backups: Schedule intensive tasks like backups and antivirus scans during off-peak hours to avoid impacting performance when users are actively accessing the NAS.
Regular Maintenance: Keep TOS 5 updated to the latest version. Software updates often include performance optimizations and bug fixes. Regularly check disk health and RAID status.

By combining smart hardware choices with optimized network and software configurations, you can unleash the full potential of your TerraMaster F4-424, ensuring it delivers robust performance for all your data storage and application needs. Framework Laptop 16 Review

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The TerraMaster F4-424 emerges as a highly competitive and compelling 4-bay NAS solution in its price segment.

It’s not just an iterative update but a significant leap forward, making it a strong contender for anyone looking to centralize data, enhance media streaming, or explore home lab possibilities without the premium price tag of some competitors.

Strengths: What the F4-424 Excels At

Exceptional Hardware Value: The combination of the Intel N95 processor, 8GB of DDR5 RAM, and dual built-in 2.5GbE ports at its price point is difficult to beat. This configuration delivers robust performance for a wide array of tasks.
4K Media Transcoding Prowess: Thanks to the N95’s integrated graphics, the F4-424 is a superb choice for Plex or Emby media servers, capable of handling multiple concurrent 1080p streams and even 4K H.264/H.265 hardware transcoding. This makes it an ideal central media hub.
Future-Proof Networking: The dual 2.5GbE ports are a significant advantage, ensuring your NAS is ready for faster home and small office networks without additional upgrades, vastly improving file transfer speeds for large files.
Robust Docker Support: For advanced users, the strong Docker integration within TOS 5 unlocks immense potential, allowing you to deploy a vast ecosystem of self-hosted applications and services, from home automation to personal clouds.
Btrfs Snapshots: The support for Btrfs with snapshot capabilities is crucial for data protection, offering quick recovery from accidental deletions, file corruption, or ransomware attacks.
Quiet and Power-Efficient: For a device designed to run 24/7, its generally quiet operation and relatively low power consumption make it suitable for home environments.

Areas for Consideration

Software Maturity: While TOS 5 has improved dramatically, it still has some catching up to do in terms of the sheer breadth and polish of applications compared to the highly mature ecosystems of Synology’s DSM or QNAP’s QTS. However, Docker largely mitigates this for advanced users.
Non-Upgradable RAM: The 8GB DDR5 RAM is fixed. While ample for most current needs, users contemplating extremely heavy virtualization workloads might prefer a model with upgradable RAM.
Community Support: TerraMaster’s community support, while growing, is not as extensive or long-standing as that of Synology or QNAP. This might mean relying more on official documentation or online forums for troubleshooting specific issues.

Who Should Buy the TerraMaster F4-424?

Media Enthusiasts: If your primary goal is to build a powerful 4K-capable Plex/Emby server to stream content across your home, this is an excellent choice.
Small Office/Home Office SOHO Users: For businesses needing a reliable, fast, and secure central storage solution for file sharing, backups, and potentially light application hosting.
Advanced Users/Home Lab Enthusiasts: If you’re keen on leveraging Docker for self-hosting various services, running lightweight VMs, or experimenting with network services, the F4-424 provides a strong platform.
Value Seekers: Users who want high-performance hardware features 2.5GbE, N95 CPU, 8GB DDR5 without paying the premium often associated with more established brands.

Who Might Look Elsewhere?

Users Needing Maximum Software Ecosystem Depth: If you require access to a highly specialized, niche application that is only available natively on Synology or QNAP, or if you prefer an absolutely ‘set-and-forget’ experience with the most mature app store.
Users with Extreme Virtualization Needs: While it can handle light VMs, if you plan to run multiple demanding virtual machines concurrently, a NAS with more powerful, upgradable CPU options e.g., AMD Ryzen or Intel Core i-series and more RAM might be a better fit.

Recommendation:

For the vast majority of home users, power users, and small businesses, the TerraMaster F4-424 is an outstanding recommendation. It hits a sweet spot of performance, features, and aggressive pricing that few competitors can match right now. Its robust hardware configuration ensures it’s ready for today’s demands and well-positioned for the future, making it a smart long-term investment for your data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TerraMaster F4-424?

The TerraMaster F4-424 is a 4-bay Network Attached Storage NAS device designed for personal users, small to medium-sized businesses, and enthusiasts who need a centralized storage solution with strong performance capabilities.

What processor does the TerraMaster F4-424 use?

The TerraMaster F4-424 is powered by an Intel N95 processor.

How much RAM does the TerraMaster F4-424 have?

It comes with 8GB of DDR5 RAM.

Is the RAM in the TerraMaster F4-424 upgradable?

No, the 8GB DDR5 RAM in the TerraMaster F4-424 is not user-upgradable.

What kind of network ports does the F4-424 have?

It features dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet 2.5GbE ports, allowing for fast network speeds and Link Aggregation.

Does the TerraMaster F4-424 support 4K video transcoding?

Yes, thanks to its Intel N95 processor with integrated graphics, the F4-424 supports hardware-accelerated 4K H.264/H.265 video transcoding, making it suitable for Plex Media Server. Alienware M16 R2 Review

Does the F4-424 have M.2 NVMe slots?

Yes, it comes with two M.2 NVMe slots, primarily used for SSD caching to improve system performance.

What operating system does the F4-424 run on?

It runs on TerraMaster’s proprietary operating system, TOS TerraMaster Operating System, specifically TOS 5 or later.

What RAID levels does the F4-424 support?

It supports various RAID levels including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, JBOD, and Single Disk.

Can I run Docker containers on the TerraMaster F4-424?

Yes, the F4-424 has robust support for Docker, allowing users to deploy a wide range of containerized applications.

Is the TerraMaster F4-424 good for Plex?

Yes, it is an excellent choice for Plex due to its Intel N95 CPU which supports hardware transcoding for 4K video.

How loud is the TerraMaster F4-424?

The F4-424 is generally considered quiet, especially at idle or light loads, with noise primarily coming from the hard drives themselves.

What is the power consumption of the F4-424?

Power consumption varies, but it’s typically efficient, ranging from 10-15W at idle with drives spun down to 25-40W under load, depending on the drives and workload.

Can the F4-424 be used as a personal cloud?

Yes, you can use the F4-424 to create a personal cloud for file access and synchronization across your devices.

Does the F4-424 support snapshots?

Yes, if configured with the Btrfs file system, the F4-424 supports snapshots for point-in-time data recovery.

What is the warranty for the TerraMaster F4-424?

TerraMaster typically offers a 2-year warranty on their NAS devices, but it’s always best to check with the retailer or TerraMaster’s official website for the most up-to-date warranty information. Allblk Review

Can I access the F4-424 remotely?

Yes, TOS 5 offers features for secure remote access via its cloud service, DDNS, or by setting up a VPN server on the NAS.

Is the F4-424 suitable for small businesses?

Yes, its performance, data protection features RAID, snapshots, and ability to host applications via Docker make it suitable for small to medium-sized business environments.

How does the F4-424 compare to Synology DS923+?

The F4-424 often offers better hardware value N95 CPU, 8GB DDR5, built-in 2.5GbE for its price, while the Synology DS923+ boasts a more mature and extensive software ecosystem DSM with upgradable RAM and optional 10GbE.

How does the F4-424 compare to QNAP TS-464?

Both offer dual 2.5GbE and M.2 NVMe slots.

The F4-424 has a newer N95 CPU and 8GB DDR5, while the TS-464 uses an N5105 with upgradable DDR4 RAM, making it a strong competitor for specific virtualization needs.

Can I install third-party apps on the F4-424?

Yes, via its App Center and especially through Docker, you can install and run a wide range of third-party applications.

Does the F4-424 support Link Aggregation?

Yes, with its dual 2.5GbE ports, the F4-424 supports Link Aggregation LACP for increased bandwidth and failover.

Are the hard drive bays hot-swappable?

Yes, the hard drive bays in the F4-424 are typically hot-swappable, allowing for drive replacement without powering down the unit.

Can I use SSDs in the main drive bays?

Yes, you can use 2.5-inch SATA SSDs in the main drive bays, often with a 2.5-inch to 3.5-inch adapter if needed.

Does the F4-424 support encrypted folders?

Yes, TOS 5 allows you to create AES 256-bit encrypted shared folders to protect sensitive data. Final Fantasy Vii Rebirth Review

What is the maximum storage capacity of the F4-424?

The maximum storage capacity depends on the largest capacity hard drives available on the market and supported by the NAS.

With current high-capacity drives e.g., 22TB or 24TB, it can support over 80TB in a RAID 5/6 configuration.

Does the F4-424 have good backup features?

Yes, TOS 5 offers various backup options including local backups, remote backups, cloud synchronization, and support for backup applications via Docker.

Is the F4-424 good for virtualization?

It can handle lightweight virtual machines and is very capable of running numerous Docker containers, making it good for container-based virtualization.

For heavy VM loads, a more powerful CPU with more RAM might be needed.

What kind of USB ports does it have?

The F4-424 typically features multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for connecting external drives or other peripherals.

Is the TerraMaster F4-424 a good long-term investment?

Yes, its modern and powerful hardware N95 CPU, DDR5 RAM, 2.5GbE combined with TerraMaster’s continuous software development makes it a solid and future-proof investment for several years.

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