Buffalo LinkStation 210
Score: 61/100
Synology DS223j
Score: 66/100Rankings
The Synology DiskStation DS223j is an entry-level 2-bay NAS that offers ultra-quiet operation, low power draw, and an easy-to-use DSM interface for basic backups and media streaming. Its limitations include modest 1 GB RAM, a single gigabit Ethernet port, and non-hot-swap drive bays. It is best for home users or beginners needing simple, energy-efficient storage.
The Buffalo LinkStation 210 is an entry-level single-bay NAS offering a built-in 4 TB drive and subscription-free personal cloud. Its modest processor, USB 2.0 port and lack of RAID limit performance and scalability. Best suited for home users needing simple backup and remote access at a low cost.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
4 TB | 108 TBbest | |
1 | 2best | |
— | 4best | |
0.8 GHz | 1.7 GHzbest | |
0.256 GB | 1 GBbest | |
1 | 2best | |
1best | 1best | |
1 Gbpsbest | 1 Gbpsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Storage(3) | ||
Storage Capacity (TB) | 4 TB | 108 TB |
Drive Bays | 1 | 2 |
RAID Support | false | true |
Performance(3) | ||
CPU Model | 800 MHz dual-issue ARM | Realtek RTD1619B |
CPU Clock Speed (GHz) | 0.8 GHz | 1.7 GHz |
Memory (RAM) (GB) | 0.256 GB | 1 GB |
Connectivity(1) | ||
USB Ports | 1 | 2 |
Power(1) | ||
Power Consumption (Active) (W) | 24 W | 16.31 W |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.1 kg | 0.87 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 22.0×8.4×24.0 cm cm | 10.0×22.6×16.5 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers rate the LinkStation 210 as a solid entry-level NAS, praising its subscription-free WebAccess remote cloud, built-in security, and value-focused inclusion of a 4 TB drive and two-year warranty. However, they note that the modest processor, USB 2.0 port, and lack of RAID limit performance and scalability, and that initial configuration-especially WebAccess on newer OS versions-can be cumbersome.
Home users generally like the simplicity, reliability, and zero-fee cloud access, highlighting the generous 4 TB storage and easy multi-device backups. Recurring complaints focus on slow transfer speeds, sparse documentation for mesh or Windows 11 environments, and frustrations with setting up remote WebAccess.
“great unit for price”
Professional reviewers describe the DS223j as a budget-friendly entry into Synology's lineup, commending its energy-efficient design, ultra-quiet operation, and the robust DSM software suite. However, they criticize the modest 1 GB of RAM, the single 1 GbE network port, and the entry-level CPU as constraints that limit the device to basic file serving and backup tasks.
Everyday users appreciate the DS223j for its straightforward setup, near-silent operation, and low power draw, often highlighting its reliability for personal backups and modest media streaming. Recurring complaints focus on slow network transfer speeds, limited RAM causing sluggishness under load, and occasional fan noise when the unit is busy.
