Synology DS223j
Score: 66/100
Synology DS118
Score: 68/100Rankings
The Synology DS118 is a compact 1-bay NAS offering low power use and 4K transcoding capability. Its single-bay layout and limited memory mean no RAID protection and constrained performance for heavy workloads. Ideal for home users or small offices needing quiet, basic storage and media streaming.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
108 TBbest | 1 TB | |
2best | 1 | |
4best | 4best | |
1.7 GHzbest | 1.4 GHz | |
1 GBbest | 1 GBbest | |
— | 113 MB/sbest | |
— | 112 MB/sbest | |
2best | 2best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Storage(3) | ||
Storage Capacity (TB) | 108 TB | 1 TB |
Drive Bays | 2 | 1 |
RAID Support | true | false |
Performance(2) | ||
CPU Model | Realtek RTD1619B | Realtek RTD1296 |
CPU Clock Speed (GHz) | 1.7 GHz | 1.4 GHz |
Power(1) | ||
Power Consumption (Idle) (W) | 4 W | 9.4 W |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.87 kg | 0.7 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 10.0×22.6×16.5 cm cm | 16.6x7.1x22.4 cm |
Noise Level (dB) | 18.2 dB | 16.7 dB |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low 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.
Professional reviewers consider the DS118 a capable entry-level NAS that delivers impressive sequential throughput and 4K transcoding performance while maintaining low power consumption and noise. They commend its DSM software suite and note that it offers hardware comparable to higher-bay models at a lower price, but they also point out the inherent limitations of a single-bay design, fixed 1 GB RAM, and an ARM CPU for more demanding tasks.
Home and small-office users generally praise the DS118 for its easy setup, quiet operation, and reliable media streaming capabilities, especially the 4K transcoding on modest hardware. Recurring complaints focus on the limited RAM, lack of RAID redundancy, and occasional USB speed throttling.
