Welcome to our in-depth comparison and review of the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices. For those in the market for a storage solution, these two models are likely to be high on the list. In this article, we will outline the key similarities and differences between the DS220+ and DS720+ to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Whether you’re a professional or a home user, a Synology NAS can offer robust and reliable storage capabilities.
With that said, let’s dive into the specifics of these two models to see which one may be the right fit for you.
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Synology DS220+ Overview
The Synology DS220+ is a high-performance 2-bay NAS device designed for small to medium-sized businesses and home users with demanding storage needs. It comes equipped with an Intel Celeron J4025 2-core processor, 2 GB DDR4 memory (expandable up to 6 GB), and two drive bays that support both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs).
In terms of connectivity, the DS220+ features dual 1GbE LAN ports, which can be teamed to increase network bandwidth and reliability, and two USB 3.0 ports that allow for easy external device connections. Additionally, it supports Synology’s High Availability (SHA) design, which ensures seamless transitions between clustered servers in the event of a hardware failure.
One of the standout features of the DS220+ is its powerful software suite, which includes the DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system and a range of useful applications such as Synology Drive, Active Backup Suite, and Surveillance Station. DSM is an intuitive web-based interface that simplifies the management of the NAS device and allows for easy customization and fine-tuning of its functionality and performance.
The DS220+ also offers advanced data protection mechanisms such as RAID 1 (mirroring) and Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), which automatically optimizes the storage capacity and performance of the device while ensuring data redundancy. It even supports snapshot technology, which captures point-in-time copies of shared folders and LUNs, allowing for easy recovery in case of accidental deletion or modification.
Overall, the Synology DS220+ is a reliable and versatile storage solution that offers robust hardware, powerful software, and flexible data protection mechanisms, making it a great choice for businesses and home users alike.
Synology DS720+ Overview
The Synology DS720+ is a high-performance, feature-rich network-attached storage device designed for small to medium-sized businesses and home users. This NAS device boasts a powerful Intel Celeron J4125 Quad-Core 2.0 GHz processor, which delivers fast and efficient performance even when handling large amounts of data. It comes equipped with 2GB of DDR4 memory, which can be expanded up to 6GB if required.
With a maximum storage capacity of 32TB, the Synology DS720+ provides ample room to store all your important files, documents, photos, and videos. It also offers multiple RAID configurations, including Synology Hybrid RAID, Basic, JBOD, RAID 0, and RAID 1, giving users flexibility in setting up their storage.
One of the standout features of the Synology DS720+ is its powerful software suite, which includes Synology Drive, Synology Office, and Synology Chat. The device also comes with a built-in 4K video transcoding engine that can convert video files to various formats and resolutions, making it an ideal choice for multimedia enthusiasts.
In terms of connectivity, the Synology DS720+ comes equipped with dual 1GbE LAN ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and an eSATA port, allowing users to connect a wide range of devices and peripherals. It also supports Synology High Availability, which provides seamless failover in case of any hardware or software issues.
Overall, the Synology DS720+ is an excellent NAS device that offers solid performance, robust software, and a range of versatile features. Its expandable memory and storage options, as well as its advanced data protection and backup capabilities, make it an ideal choice for users who require a reliable and easy-to-use storage solution.
Specifications Comparison
In this section, we will compare the specifications of the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices side by side. It is important to consider various parameters when choosing a NAS device, including processor, memory, storage capacity, connectivity options, and expansion capabilities.
| Specification | DS220+ | DS720+ |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron J4025 2-core 2.0 GHz | Intel Celeron J4125 4-core 2.0 GHz (burst up to 2.7 GHz) |
| Memory | 2 GB DDR4 non-ECC SODIMM (expandable up to 6 GB) | 2 GB DDR4 non-ECC SODIMM (expandable up to 6 GB) |
| Storage Capacity | Up to 32 TB (2 x 16 TB) | Up to 32 TB (2 x 16 TB) |
| Connectivity | 2 x 1GbE LAN ports | 2 x 1GbE LAN ports, 1 x 2.5GbE LAN port |
| Expansion Capability | 1 x eSATA | 2 x eSATA |
| USB Ports | 2 x USB 3.0 | 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0 |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 165 x 108 x 232.2 mm | 166 x 106 x 223 mm |
| Weight (with drives) | 1.30 kg | 1.51 kg |
As we can see from the table above, the DS720+ has a more powerful processor, an additional 2.5GbE LAN port, and more expansion options than the DS220+. However, both models have the same memory and storage capacity, making them suitable for comparable workloads.
Conclusion:
While the DS720+ may be better suited for heavier workloads and users who require more connectivity and expansion options, the DS220+ may be a more cost-effective solution for users who don’t require as much power and flexibility. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on individual needs and budget.
Synology DS220+ vs DS720+: Features Comparison
When it comes to features, the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ offer many similarities but also some notable differences. Both devices run on DiskStation Manager (DSM), Synology’s powerful and intuitive operating system, which offers a wide array of features and applications to enhance your NAS experience. Let’s take a closer look at the features of each device to help you decide which suits your needs best.
Software Capabilities
Both models offer a range of software capabilities, including file sharing, remote access, and media streaming. However, the DS720+ has some advantages in this area. For example, it supports up to 30 camera feeds with its Surveillance Station app, while the DS220+ only supports two. Additionally, the DS720+ includes Synology’s MailPlus app for email management and collaboration, a feature that is not available on the DS220+.
File Sharing Options
Both devices support a broad range of file sharing options. The DS220+ and DS720+ both offer support for SMB, AFP, and FTP protocols. However, the DS720+ has an advantage here, too, as it also supports NFS and WebDAV protocols, which are not available on the DS220+.
Data Protection Mechanisms
The Synology DS220+ and DS720+ both offer several data protection mechanisms, including RAID support, backup and restore, and other advanced features. However, the DS720+ offers some additional options, such as Synology’s Hyper Backup app, which allows you to back up your data to external devices or the cloud. Additionally, the DS720+ comes with the Btrfs file system, which offers advanced data protection and snapshot features not available on the DS220+.
Multimedia Support
Both devices offer robust multimedia support, including media streaming and transcoding capabilities. However, the DS720+ has an edge here, as it comes with an Intel Quick Sync Video hardware transcoding engine, which provides faster and more efficient video transcoding compared to the DS220+’s software-based transcoding engine.
Remote Access Features
Both devices offer powerful remote access capabilities, allowing you to access your files and data from anywhere in the world. However, the DS720+ offers some additional options not available on the DS220+. For example, the DS720+ includes Synology’s QuickConnect feature, which allows you to easily connect to your NAS device using a custom URL without the need for complicated port forwarding or VPN setup.
Conclusion
Overall, while the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ offer many similarities in terms of features, the DS720+ has some clear advantages in certain areas, such as software capabilities, file sharing options, and data protection. However, the DS220+ remains a powerful and reliable device suitable for many users’ needs, especially those with more basic requirements.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, both the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices are highly capable of handling various workloads. However, there are some key differences that may sway users towards one model over the other.
The DS220+ is equipped with a dual-core Intel Celeron J4025 processor, while the DS720+ has a more powerful quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 processor. This difference in processing power translates to faster data transfer speeds, better multitasking capabilities, and smoother overall performance on the DS720+.
Additionally, the DS720+ has more RAM than the DS220+, providing better support for multiple users and heavier workloads. The DS720+ can support up to 6GB of RAM, while the DS220+ is limited to 2GB.
| Model | Processor | Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Synology DS220+ | Dual-core Intel Celeron J4025 | 2GB DDR4 (expandable up to 6GB) |
| Synology DS720+ | Quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 | 2GB DDR4 (expandable up to 6GB) |
However, both models offer impressive read and write speeds, with the DS720+ featuring slightly faster performance due to its stronger processor. The DS220+ can deliver read speeds of up to 225 MB/s and write speeds of up to 192 MB/s, while the DS720+ can reach read speeds of up to 406 MB/s and write speeds of up to 402 MB/s.
In terms of overall system performance and multitasking capabilities, the DS720+ has the edge over the DS220+. However, for basic storage needs and smaller workloads, the DS220+ is still a highly capable device.
Synology DS220+ vs DS720+: Price Comparison
When it comes to choosing between the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices, price is undoubtedly a crucial factor for many users. While both devices offer excellent performance and a wide range of features, there are some notable price differences to consider.
The Synology DS220+ is the more affordable option, with a price point of around $299. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users who still want a reliable and high-performing NAS device.
On the other hand, the Synology DS720+ is more expensive, with a price point of around $399. While this may be a deterrent for some users, it’s important to note that the DS720+ offers a significant increase in processing power, memory, and storage capacity compared to the DS220+.
Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on individual budget constraints and the specific needs of the user. Those looking for a basic but reliable NAS device may opt for the DS220+, while users who require more advanced functionality and higher performance may prefer the DS720+ despite the additional cost.
User Experience and Ease of Use
The Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices are designed to be easy to use and provide a seamless user experience. Both devices feature Synology’s award-winning DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, which provides a simple yet powerful interface for managing your files, data, and applications.
The setup process for both devices is straightforward and can be completed in just a few minutes. Users can plug in their devices, connect them to their network, and use the DSM operating system to configure them and begin using them right away. The DSM interface is intuitive and user-friendly, with drag-and-drop functionality and a variety of customization options to suit individual preferences.
DSM Operating System
The DSM operating system is one of the standout features of both the DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices. It offers a wide range of features and functions, including file management and sharing, multimedia streaming, backup and data protection, and more. The DSM interface is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor their experience to their specific needs and preferences.
| Feature | DS220+ | DS720+ |
|---|---|---|
| File Management | Yes | Yes |
| File Sharing | Yes | Yes |
| Media Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Backup and Data Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Access | Yes | Yes |
In addition to its suite of features, the DSM operating system also receives regular updates from Synology, ensuring that both the DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices remain up-to-date and secure. These updates can be easily installed through the DSM interface, ensuring that users always have access to the latest and greatest features and functionality.
Mobile Apps
Synology also offers a range of mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access their DS220+ or DS720+ NAS devices from anywhere in the world. These apps provide a convenient way to manage your files, stream media, and perform other tasks on the go, making it easy to stay connected and productive no matter where you are.
Overall, both the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices are designed to be easy to use and provide a seamless user experience. Whether you’re a novice user or an experienced IT professional, the DSM operating system and suite of mobile apps make it easy to manage and access your data from anywhere, at any time.
Synology DS220+ vs DS720+: Storage Expansion Options
Both the Synology DS220+ and DS720+ NAS devices offer various options for storage expansion, allowing users to increase their storage capacity over time.
The DS220+ comes with two drive bays that support 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA HDDs and SSDs up to 16TB in size. It also supports Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) and RAID 0,1, and JBOD configurations.
The DS720+ has two drive bays that support 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA HDDs and SSDs up to a maximum of 32TB. The device also features Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), RAID 0,1, and JBOD configurations.
Both devices have the option to connect to Synology expansion units, which can increase the storage capacity even further. The DS220+ can connect to the DX517 expansion unit, allowing up to five additional bays for a total of seven. The DS720+ can connect to the DX517 expansion unit and the newer DX517 Expansion Unit 2, allowing up to ten additional bays for a total of twelve.
Additionally, both devices offer options for cloud storage integration, with support for services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. The DS220+ and DS720+ also have the option for data backup to external hard drives or other Synology NAS devices on the network.
Backup and Data Protection
One of the most critical aspects of owning a NAS device is ensuring that your data is protected from loss or corruption. The Synology DS220+ and DS720+ offer various backup and data protection features to keep your important files safe and secure.
Both devices support different RAID configurations, allowing users to set up data redundancy for maximum protection against drive failure. The DS220+ supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, while the DS720+ offers support for RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, as well as Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR).
In addition to RAID support, both the DS220+ and DS720+ also offer snapshot functionality, enabling users to create point-in-time copies of their data for easy recovery in case of accidental deletion or other errors. The devices also support various backup options, such as local and remote backups, as well as cloud-based backup services like Dropbox and Google Drive.
The DS720+ also offers an additional layer of protection with its dual M.2 SSD slots, which can be used for creating an SSD cache or as an additional volume for storing important data.
Synology DS220+ vs DS720+: Which One is Right for You?
When considering the Synology DS220+ vs DS720+ NAS devices, it’s essential to identify the specific needs and use cases that your device must satisfy. Both devices offer excellent specifications, features, and performance, and the best choice depends on individual requirements and preferences.
The Synology DS220+ is an excellent choice for those on a budget, requiring moderate storage capacity and performance. It features an Intel Celeron J4025 dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and supports up to 32TB of storage capacity. Additionally, it is equipped with dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, supports multiple RAID configurations, and enables users to expand their storage capacity with the use of additional drives or expansion units.
The Synology DS720+, on the other hand, is more expensive but offers significantly higher performance and storage capabilities. It features an Intel Celeron J4125 quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM (expandable to 6GB), and can support up to 108TB of storage capacity. The device is equipped with dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots for cache acceleration, and supports multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10.
To determine which device is best for you, consider your budget, storage requirements, performance expectations, and desired features. If you’re on a tight budget and require moderate storage and performance, the Synology DS220+ is an excellent choice. However, if you require a higher level of performance and storage capacity, the Synology DS720+ is a suitable option.
FAQ
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Synology NAS devices:
What is the difference between various Synology NAS models?
Synology offers a range of NAS models that cater to different needs and use cases. These models vary in terms of specifications, features, and price points. For example, the DS220+ and DS720+ are two models that have similar specifications but differ in terms of the number of bays, expansion capabilities, and price.
Does Synology offer customer support?
Yes, Synology offers customer support through multiple channels, including email, phone, and live chat. The company also offers a knowledge base, community forum, and online resources to help users troubleshoot common issues and get the most out of their devices.
How do I update the software on my Synology NAS device?
You can update the software on your Synology NAS device by logging into the DiskStation Manager (DSM) interface and navigating to the Control Panel > Update & Restore section. From there, you can check for available updates and download and install them with just a few clicks.
What is the warranty period for Synology NAS devices?
Synology offers a two-year limited warranty for most of its NAS devices. However, some high-end models come with a three-year warranty. You can check the warranty period for your specific device on the Synology website or by contacting customer support.
Can I use my Synology NAS device for remote access?
Yes, Synology NAS devices come with built-in support for remote access, which allows you to access your files and folders from anywhere with an internet connection. You can set up remote access using Synology’s QuickConnect or by configuring port forwarding on your router.
Are Synology NAS devices compatible with third-party apps?
Yes, Synology NAS devices support a wide range of third-party apps through the Package Center, which allows you to install and run apps like Plex, Docker, and WordPress directly on your NAS. You can also develop your own apps using Synology’s software development kit (SDK).
Do I need to be a tech expert to set up and use a Synology NAS device?
No, Synology NAS devices are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up and use. The DSM interface is intuitive and user-friendly, and Synology offers detailed guides and tutorials to help you get started. However, some technical knowledge may be required for more advanced tasks like setting up RAID or configuring network settings.
