UGREEN DH2300
4.5Editor score
Entry Level Design
Simple Setup Process
AI Photo Organization
In this guide
Choosing the right NAS for Jellyfin is essential for stream media without relying on public cloud services. A powerful unit ensures smooth playback, reliable transcoding, and secure access to your personal video and music libraries across all devices.
We compared ten leading network storage devices based on processor speed, memory capacity, drive bays, and software compatibility. Each model was evaluated for its ability to run Jellyfin containers or native apps while maintaining low power consumption and high data security standards.
Each pick in this list shows specific strengths for different user needs, from beginners to advanced home lab enthusiasts. Please note that prices and availability can change frequently, so check current listings on the retailer site before making your final purchase decision.
Top 3 Picks for Best NAS for Jellyfin
UGREEN DXP4800 GT
4.6Editor score
AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
Dual 10GbE Networking
UGOS Pro Support
QNAP TS-673A-8G
5.0Editor score
Six Drive Bays
PCIe Expansion Support
High Speed Networking
Top 10 Best NAS for Jellyfin in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten network storage models selected for this review. It highlights key specifications such as core count, RAM capacity, and network ports to help you identify the best fit for your Jellyfin server setup.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
UGREEN DXP4800 Plus
Quad Core Processor
144TB Max Storage
10GbE Network Port
Docker Support Included
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
UGREEN DXP2800
Intel N100 CPU
8GB DDR5 RAM
80TB Max Storage
2.5GbE Networking
4.6Editor score
Best Budget
UGREEN DH2300
1GbE Network Port
64TB Max Storage
4GB RAM Board
AI Photo Features
4.5Editor score
UGREEN DH4300 Plus
4-Bay Design
2.5GbE Network
128TB Max Storage
HDMI Output Support
4.2Editor score
UGREEN DXP4800 GT
AMD Ryzen R2514
Dual 10GbE Ports
UGOS Pro System
144TB Max Storage
4.6Editor score
UGREEN DXP2800 GT
AMD Ryzen R2514
10GbE Networking
80TB Max Storage
VM Support Available
4.3Editor score
Synology DS925+
4-Bay Diskless
Dual 2.5GbE
DiskStation Manager OS
522MB/s Speed
4.3Editor score
Synology DS425+
4-Bay Diskless
278MB/s Speed
Enterprise Features
Surveillance Support
4.7Editor score
QNAP TS-673A-8G
6-Bay High Perf
PCIe Expansion Slots
GPU Passthrough Ready
2.5GbE Ports
5.0Editor score
Synology DS1823xs+
8-Bay Diskless
Hot-Swappable Drives
Cluster Support
Expansion Unit Ready
4.2Editor score
1. UGREEN DXP4800 GT – Best Overall NAS for Jellyfin
UGREEN DXP4800 GT
AMD Ryzen R2514
Dual 10GbE Ports
UGOS Pro System
144TB Max Storage
The UGREEN DXP4800 GT stands out as a top-tier choice for Jellyfin media server users seeking speed and reliability. With a 4.6 rating, it combines strong hardware with a flexible operating system that supports Docker containers for hosting your media library.
Pros
- High performance CPU for transcoding
- Dual 10GbE network support
- Full UOS Pro ecosystem
- Secure local storage encryption
- SD card instant backup slot
Cons
- Requires separate drive purchase
- Non-ECC RAM needs upgrade
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Its AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor handles multi-user workloads smoothly, ensuring 4K streams play without buffering. The dual 10GbE networking allows for fast file transfers and stable streaming to multiple devices simultaneously on your local network.
While the unit does not include hard drives, the massive 144TB capacity potential means you can scale storage as your collection grows. You must configure ECC RAM manually if you want error correction for long-term server stability.
This device is ideal for tech enthusiasts who need more than basic storage. If you want a powerful, future-proof system that supports Jellyfin via Docker with professional-grade security features, this is a top recommendation.
Superior Network Throughput
Dual 10GbE ports enable rapid data movement and prevent bottlenecks when multiple users access media at once.
UGOS Pro Ecosystem
The operating system offers a clean interface and supports essential apps like Home Assistant and Plex alongside Jellyfin.
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2. UGREEN DH2300 – Best Budget NAS for Jellyfin
UGREEN DH2300
1GbE Network Port
64TB Max Storage
4GB RAM Board
AI Photo Features
The UGREEN DH2300 offers an affordable entry point for users wanting private storage and basic media server capabilities. Rated 4.5, it is designed for beginners who need a reliable way to store photos and videos without complex configurations.
Pros
- Very affordable entry price
- Simple and intuitive setup
- AI photo organization tools
- Automatic device backups
- Low power consumption
Cons
- Limited Docker support
- No virtual machine options
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It supports massive capacity up to 64TB, giving you plenty of space for a growing media library. The AI features help organize photos automatically, which adds value even if you run Jellyfin manually or with limited automation tools.
This unit is not designed for heavy virtualization tasks since it lacks full Docker and VM support. You will need to be comfortable with simpler workflows, but it still provides solid encryption and backup options for personal use.
Buy this model if you are on a tight budget and need a straightforward device for storing personal files. It works well for Jellyfin users who prioritize cost savings over advanced virtualization features.
Cost Effective Storage
One time purchase savings compared to cloud subscriptions make it a smart long-term investment for home users.
AI Organization
Facial recognition and tagging help you find specific moments quickly without manual sorting efforts.
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3. QNAP TS-673A-8G – Best Premium NAS for Jellyfin
QNAP TS-673A-8G
6-Bay High Perf
PCIe Expansion Slots
GPU Passthrough Ready
2.5GbE Ports
The QNAP TS-673A-8G earns a perfect 5.0 rating for its high-performance capabilities and exceptional flexibility. It is a robust choice for advanced Jellyfin setups requiring hardware transcoding and extensive storage expansion options.
Pros
- Perfect 5.0 user rating
- Six drive bays for scale
- PCIe expansion for 10GbE
- GPU passthrough for VMs
- M.2 PCIe NVMe slots
Cons
- Higher price point than others
- Steeper learning curve
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With six drive bays and support for PCIe cards, you can add 10GbE networking or extra USB ports to fit your workflow. The ability to support entry-level NVIDIA graphics cards means you can offload video processing tasks efficiently.
This model allows for GPU passthrough to virtual machines, which is ideal if you plan to run multiple services alongside Jellyfin in isolated environments. You should ensure you have a compatible PSU and rack space for such a unit.
Select this device if you demand top-tier performance and expandability. It is best for power users who need a centralized hub for media, backups, and heavy workloads without compromising speed.
Expandable Performance
PCIe slots allow you to upgrade networking and connectivity without replacing the entire chassis later.
Qtier Technology
M.2 NVMe slots enable SSD caching for faster access to frequently used media files.
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4. UGREEN DXP4800 Plus – Best for Collaboration
UGREEN DXP4800 Plus
144TB Max Capacity
10GbE Network Port
Docker Support
Multi OS App
The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus delivers powerful collaboration features for families and small teams sharing media content. With a 4.6 rating, it provides seamless access across Windows, macOS, and mobile devices for a unified cloud experience.
Pros
- Massive storage potential
- Fast 10GbE transfer speed
- Seamless device compatibility
- Docker and VM support
- Secure permission management
Cons
- Does not support Wi-Fi
- Drives sold separately
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Its 10GbE network port enables super-fast transfers, allowing you to back up large media libraries quickly. You can store up to 144TB of data, making it suitable for extensive video archives and high-resolution photo collections.
Docker and virtual machine support allow you to host Jellyfin alongside other self-hosted applications. However, note that this model relies on wired Ethernet, so ensure your router has the right ports available for setup.
This model works well for households needing centralized storage and smooth streaming. Choose it if you value speed and flexibility in accessing your private media library from any device.
Secure Private Cloud
Advanced encryption ensures your data remains private while allowing flexible permission settings for team access.
AI Photo Album
Face recognition and duplicate removal help keep your media library organized automatically.
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5. UGREEN DXP2800 – Best for Home Users
UGREEN DXP2800
Intel N100 CPU
8GB DDR5 RAM
80TB Max Storage
2.5GbE Networking
The UGREEN DXP2800 is tailored for advanced home users needing robust media management. With a 4.6 rating, it handles large files and multiple apps thanks to its Intel N100 CPU and 8GB DDR5 RAM.
Pros
- Intel N100 processor power
- 8GB DDR5 RAM included
- Dual M.2 NVMe slots
- Surveillance center built-in
- Media server friendly
Cons
- Limited to two drive bays
- Requires external drives
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Dual M.2 NVMe slots provide options for caching or high-speed media storage. You can store up to 80TB total, which is plenty for most personal libraries and device backups.
Its AI-powered home surveillance features let you manage security and media in one place. This unit is great for Jellyfin if you need a balanced mix of performance and compact design.
Consider this device if you want a dedicated media hub that also supports remote work tools. It is suitable for creators who need efficient file handling and reliable local storage.
Media Hub Design
Centralize photos and videos in one secure place to avoid scattered storage on external drives.
Surveillance Hub
Connect network cameras to store recordings locally and manage events efficiently.
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6. UGREEN DH4300 Plus – Best for Beginners
UGREEN DH4300 Plus
4-Bay Entry Level
2.5GbE Network
128TB Max Storage
HDMI Video Output
The UGREEN DH4300 Plus offers an entry-level 4-bay solution perfect for home media storage. It supports Docker for running apps like Jellyfin while providing simple setup via NFC and a friendly user interface.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly setup
- 4-Bay capacity
- Direct HDMI output
- NFC connect support
- Docker support included
Cons
- No virtual machine option
- Entry-level performance
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With a 2.5GbE network port, file transfers are efficient and you can access data remotely from any device. The 128TB capacity allows for significant storage expansion as your media collection grows.
It features an HDMI video output for direct playback, which is useful for living room setups. However, virtual machines are not supported, so keep this limitation in mind for more complex setups.
This unit is ideal for beginners who need more than two drive bays. It balances cost and functionality well for families looking to store photos and videos securely.
Smart Photo Backup
AI-powered albums automatically organize memories and help you find specific moments instantly.
Direct Output
HDMI connectivity allows direct media access without needing a separate computer for playback.
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7. UGREEN DXP2800 GT – Best for Smart Home
UGREEN DXP2800 GT
AMD Ryzen R2514
10GbE Networking
80TB Max Storage
Surveillance Center
The UGREEN DXP2800 GT is optimized for smart home enthusiasts and creators needing fast data handling. Its AMD Ryzen Embedded processor ensures stable streaming and quick file transfers on the local network.
Pros
- Strong Ryzen processor
- Fast 10GbE network
- UGOS Pro expansion
- Local privacy focus
- Surveillance system built-in
Cons
- High cost compared to others
- Manual setup for Plex
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You can expand storage up to 80TB and use 10GbE networking for high-speed data movement. It supports Docker and virtual machines, making it versatile for running various self-hosted apps.
The surveillance center allows you to manage security recordings locally, protecting your privacy and reducing cloud dependency. This feature is useful for home security setups alongside media servers.
Choose this device if you want a high-performance unit with strong security and speed. It works well for freelancers managing large files and automated home workflows.
Local Privacy
Store data at home with multi-layer protection to avoid relying on third-party cloud services.
Expansion Options
UGOS Pro provides a simple interface to add apps like Home Assistant and Jellyfin.
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8. Synology DS925+ – Best Ecosystem
Synology DS925+
4-Bay Diskless
Dual 2.5GbE
DiskStation Manager OS
522MB/s Speed
The Synology DS925+ offers a reliable platform with proven software for managing personal data. Its DiskStation Manager is widely recognized for stability and ease of use in media server environments.
Pros
- Proven DiskStation OS
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- High throughput speed
- Enterprise solutions support
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- More expensive than others
- No GPU support
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With dual 2.5GbE ports, you can achieve fast data transfers and redundancy for your network. It supports stable throughput, ensuring consistent performance when serving media to multiple clients.
This model includes built-in file and photo management tools alongside virtualization features. The 3-year warranty provides long-term protection for your hardware investment.
Ideal for users who prefer a mature ecosystem with regular updates. It is a solid choice for hosting Jellyfin with minimal technical troubleshooting.
File Management
Centralized repository supports granular access controls and audit logs for better data security.
Enterprise Support
Dedicated account management is available for critical production environments.
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9. Synology DS425+ – Best for Teams
Synology DS425+
4-Bay Diskless
Concurrent Access
Professional Surveillance
3-Year Warranty
The Synology DS425+ is designed for teams and private cloud media streaming. It offers a strong 4.7 rating for its ability to support concurrent access from multiple users efficiently.
Pros
- Excellent 4.7 rating
- 278 MB/s transfer speed
- 10+ user support
- Professional surveillance support
- Granular access controls
Cons
- Higher price than basic models
- Limited drive bay count
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With transfer speeds up to 278 MB/s, you can stream media and back up files without noticeable delays. It supports 30 IP cameras, making it versatile for security and media combined.
This device combines multi-layered data protection with professional surveillance solutions. You gain granular access controls and audit logs for secure data sharing.
Select this model for office or team use requiring stability and security. It is a robust solution for running a private media server alongside business files.
Team Productivity
Share large files and stream media across the office with stable and fast network access.
Data Protection
Combine RAID redundancy with automated backups to prevent data loss effectively.
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10. Synology DS1823xs+ – Best for Scale
Synology DS1823xs+
8-Bay Diskless
Hot-Swappable Drives
Expansion Unit Ready
High Availability Cluster
The Synology DS1823xs+ provides massive scale for data and media storage needs. With eight drive bays, it allows for significant capacity and redundancy for your personal or business library.
Pros
- Eight drive bays
- Hot-swappable support
- Online volume expansion
- Synology High Availability
- Up to 18 bays total
Cons
- Expensive entry price
- Complex setup process
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Hot-swappable drives and online volume expansion ensure you can add storage without downtime. It supports Synology High Availability clustering to maximize uptime for critical servers.
You can attach up to two expansion units for up to 18 drive bays in total. This flexibility makes it suitable for growing data demands over time.
Choose this device if you need large storage capacity and high availability features. It is best for advanced users managing large media collections and backups.
Maximize Uptime
Online volume expansion and clustering keep your server running smoothly even during upgrades.
Expansion Ready
Add DX517 units to extend storage capacity without migrating to a new chassis.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best NAS for Jellyfin
Selecting the right NAS involves evaluating several key factors to ensure it meets your media server needs efficiently.
Processor and Transcoding
Look for a CPU with multiple cores and threads to handle video transcoding for Jellyfin. AMD Ryzen or Intel N series chips are common choices that balance power and efficiency for streaming.
Memory Capacity
RAM determines how many concurrent users your server can support. Aim for at least 8GB DDR5 or DDR4 to ensure smooth multitasking when running containers alongside media playback.
Drive Bays and Storage
More drive bays provide flexibility to scale your storage capacity over time. Consider models with at least four bays if you plan to store large 4K libraries and keep multiple backups.
Network Speed
Network ports affect streaming quality. 10GbE ports enable faster transfers and stable high-resolution playback for multiple devices simultaneously without buffering issues.
Operating System Support
Choose a system that supports Docker or native apps for easy Jellyfin installation. UGREEN and Synology offer robust ecosystems for managing containers and media apps seamlessly.
Security Features
Encryption and access controls protect your private media. Look for models with AES encryption and two-factor authentication to keep your data safe from unauthorized access.
Power Consumption
Since a NAS runs 24/7, efficient power usage helps reduce electricity costs. Modern models with efficient CPUs are designed to minimize energy draw while maintaining performance.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty ensures protection against hardware failures. Brands like Synology and UGREEN provide multi-year coverage and support centers to assist with setup and troubleshooting.
How to Use and Care for Your NAS for Jellyfin
Begin by installing compatible hard drives into the bays and connecting the unit to your router via Ethernet. Follow the setup wizard to initialize the drives and configure your operating system.
Install Jellyfin through the Docker container if your NAS supports it or use the native app if available. Create your media library folders and point them to the files stored on the NAS.
Regularly check firmware updates to maintain security and performance. Monitor drive health through the dashboard to ensure your media files remain safe and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any NAS run Jellyfin?
Most modern NAS devices can run Jellyfin via Docker if they support containerization. Check that your model allows Docker installation and has enough resources to handle your expected user load.
Do I need to buy hard drives with a NAS?
Yes, most NAS units are sold diskless meaning you must purchase and install your own hard drives. Select drives compatible with the NAS model for reliable storage and performance.
What network speed is recommended for Jellyfin?
For smooth 4K streaming to multiple devices a network port of at least 2.5GbE is recommended. 10GbE is ideal for high bandwidth needs and future-proofing your setup.
Is Docker necessary for Jellyfin on NAS?
Docker is not strictly necessary but makes installation and updates easier. Some NAS systems offer native apps for Jellyfin so check compatibility before deciding on a platform.
How do I protect my data on a NAS?
Enable RAID for redundancy use encryption for file transfers and set strong passwords for user accounts. Regular backups to external drives ensure you never lose important media files.
Can I access my NAS remotely?
Yes, most NAS devices support remote access via secure connections or apps. Configure port forwarding or use built-in secure tunneling features for safe access from outside your home.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best NAS for Jellyfin
The top picks include the UGREEN DXP4800 GT for overall performance and the UGREEN DH2300 for budget-conscious users. The QNAP TS-673A-8G remains the best option for those needing high-end expandability.
Prioritize processor power and network speed to ensure your media streams play smoothly without interruptions. Security features are equally important to keep your private library protected from unauthorized access.
Remember to check current listings for pricing and drive compatibility before purchasing. Your ideal NAS should match your storage needs and technical requirements perfectly for long-term enjoyment.