Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 As6704T Review

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T stands out as a compelling network-attached storage NAS solution, particularly for prosumers and small businesses seeking a robust blend of performance, expandability, and versatile features.

This refresh builds upon its successful predecessor, offering notable improvements in processing power, connectivity, and M.2 NVMe SSD integration, making it a powerful contender for demanding applications like virtualization, 4K media streaming, and high-speed data backup.

Its ability to seamlessly handle diverse workloads, from file serving to sophisticated multimedia management, underscores its value proposition in a crowded market.

Here’s a breakdown of some top NAS and related products that compete with or complement the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T:

• Synology DiskStation DS923+

  

  • Key Features: AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core processor, 4 drive bays, 2x M.2 2280 NVMe slots, optional 10GbE upgrade, Synology DiskStation Manager DSM OS.
  • Average Price: Around $599 diskless.
  • Pros: Renowned for user-friendly DSM, extensive app ecosystem, strong community support, good for media and general data storage.
  • Cons: Base model lacks 10GbE, CPU is less powerful than some competitors for heavy virtualization.

• QNAP TS-464

  • Key Features: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor, 4 drive bays, 2x 2.5GbE ports, 2x M.2 PCIe Gen3 NVMe slots, HDMI 2.0 output.
  • Average Price: Around $549 diskless.
  • Pros: Excellent value, dual 2.5GbE for Link Aggregation, good for multimedia and light virtualization, HDMI for direct display.
  • Cons: QTS OS can be more complex for beginners than DSM, fan noise can be noticeable under load.

• Terramaster F4-423

  • Key Features: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core processor, 4 drive bays, 2x 2.5GbE ports, 2x M.2 NVMe slots, TOS operating system.
  • Average Price: Around $499 diskless.
  • Pros: Highly competitive pricing, dual 2.5GbE, solid performance for the price, good for file storage and backups.
  • Cons: TOS is less mature than DSM or QTS, smaller app ecosystem, user interface can be less intuitive.

• Western Digital Red Pro NAS Hard Drive

  • Key Features: Optimized for NAS systems, 7200 RPM, CMR technology, high workload rating, available in capacities up to 22TB.
  • Average Price: Varies significantly by capacity e.g., 8TB for ~$199.
  • Pros: Designed for 24/7 operation, excellent reliability for NAS environments, good performance for sequential reads/writes.
  • Cons: Higher cost per TB than desktop drives, can be slightly noisier than some other NAS drives.

• Crucial P5 Plus NVMe SSD

  • Key Features: PCIe Gen4 x4 interface, NVMe protocol, sequential reads up to 6600MB/s, excellent for caching or fast storage pools.
  • Average Price: Varies by capacity e.g., 1TB for ~$80.
  • Pros: Blazing fast speeds, ideal for accelerating NAS performance e.g., caching, virtual machines, good endurance.
  • Cons: More expensive per GB than traditional HDDs, not necessary for all NAS use cases, requires compatible M.2 slot.

• TP-Link TL-SG1008P Gigabit PoE Switch

  • Key Features: 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 4 PoE+ ports, plug-and-play, durable metal casing.
  • Average Price: Around $60.
  • Pros: Simple to set up, provides network connectivity for multiple devices, PoE+ for powering compatible devices e.g., IP cameras, wireless access points.
  • Cons: Only Gigabit, not suitable for 2.5GbE or 10GbE NAS connections, no advanced management features.

• Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS – CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD

  • Key Features: 1500VA/900W Pure Sine Wave output, 12 outlets 6 battery backup/surge, 6 surge only, LCD display, USB/Serial connectivity for power management.
  • Average Price: Around $200.
  • Pros: Protects NAS from power outages and surges, allows for graceful shutdown, pure sine wave output is crucial for sensitive electronics.
  • Cons: Can be bulky and heavy, requires periodic battery replacement, higher initial cost.

Unpacking the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T: A Deep Dive into Performance

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T isn’t just another box for your files.

It’s a meticulously engineered piece of kit designed to be the backbone of your digital life.

When we talk performance, we’re not just throwing around buzzwords.

We’re talking about the raw horsepower to handle multiple demanding tasks simultaneously, from serving up 4K streams to running virtual machines without breaking a sweat.

The Powerhouse: Intel Celeron N5105 Processor

At the heart of the AS6704T lies the Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor. This isn’t your average budget CPU. It’s built on Intel’s Jasper Lake architecture, offering a significant leap over previous Celeron generations found in many NAS devices.

• Clock Speed: Base clock of 2.0 GHz, bursting up to 2.9 GHz. This dynamic frequency scaling means it can ramp up performance when needed for intensive tasks and scale down to save power during idle periods.
• Cores/Threads: Four cores and four threads. This allows for excellent multitasking capabilities, essential when your NAS is handling concurrent users, media transcoding, and background backups.
• Integrated Graphics: Features Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs, which is crucial for efficient hardware transcoding of video. This offloads the CPU, ensuring smooth 4K playback and streaming to various devices, even those with limited format support.
• TDP: A low Thermal Design Power TDP of 10W. This translates to lower power consumption and quieter operation, a major plus for a device that’s often running 24/7 in a home or small office environment.

Data shows that the N5105 offers approximately a 30% to 50% improvement in multi-threaded performance compared to the older J4125 found in many previous-gen NAS units. This translates directly to snappier UI responses, faster file operations, and more efficient application execution. For instance, running Docker containers or a virtual machine feels considerably more fluid.

Memory Configuration and Expandability

The AS6704T comes standard with 4GB of DDR4 SO-DIMM RAM, but here’s where Asustor really shines: it’s user-upgradeable.

• Single Slot: It features a single SO-DIMM slot.
• Maximum Capacity: Supports up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM. This is a critical factor for users who plan to leverage virtualization e.g., running Windows or Linux VMs via VirtualBox or utilize memory-intensive applications like Plex Media Server with multiple concurrent transcode streams.
• RAM Type: Uses standard DDR4 non-ECC SO-DIMM modules, making upgrades straightforward and relatively inexpensive.

Upgrading RAM can have a dramatic impact.

For example, if you’re planning to run an Ubuntu Server VM for a specific application alongside your file sharing, jumping from 4GB to 8GB or even 16GB will provide a much smoother experience, reducing disk I/O bottlenecks caused by excessive swapping.

Think of it like this: if you’re trying to juggle three flaming torches and only have two hands, you’re going to drop one. More RAM means more hands to juggle those tasks. 1More Aero Review

Connectivity and Network Throughput: The Speed You Need

In the world of NAS, network speed isn’t just a nice-to-have.

It’s the foundation upon which all other performance metrics are built.

If your NAS is a Ferrari but connected by a dirt road, you’re not going anywhere fast.

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T addresses this head-on with robust, future-proof networking capabilities.

Dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports

One of the most significant upgrades in the Gen 2 Lockerstor series is the inclusion of two 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet 2.5GbE ports. This isn’t just a minor bump. it’s a 2.5x increase in theoretical bandwidth compared to traditional Gigabit Ethernet.

• Individual Port Speed: Each port can deliver speeds up to 250 MB/s MegaBytes per second.
• Link Aggregation LACP: The AS6704T supports Link Aggregation, allowing you to combine the two 2.5GbE ports into a single logical connection. When connected to a compatible 2.5GbE or multi-Gig switch like a Netgear GS308PP, this can theoretically provide up to 500 MB/s of aggregated throughput.
• Real-world Impact: For large file transfers, such as moving 4K video footage or large database backups, this speed difference is immediately noticeable. A 100GB file that might take 15 minutes over Gigabit Ethernet could be transferred in just 6 minutes over aggregated 2.5GbE. For creative professionals working with large media files directly from the NAS, this is a must.
• Backward Compatibility: Don’t have a 2.5GbE switch yet? No problem. These ports are backward compatible with standard Gigabit Ethernet, so your NAS will still connect and function perfectly, ready for the upgrade when you are.

The proliferation of 2.5GbE on consumer motherboards and affordable switches makes this a highly practical and accessible upgrade path for many users.

It strikes a fantastic balance between cost and performance, bridging the gap between Gigabit and often prohibitively expensive 10GbE.

USB 3.2 Gen 2 Ports for Blazing Fast External Storage

The AS6704T is equipped with three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, two on the rear and one conveniently located on the front. These ports offer a theoretical transfer speed of 10 Gbps 1.25 GB/s.

• External Drives: Perfect for connecting high-speed external SSDs or disk enclosures for rapid backups, data migration, or extending storage capacity. Imagine backing up a 2TB external SSD to your NAS in minutes, not hours.
• Data Ingest: For photographers or videographers, the front USB port is a godsend for quickly ingesting footage from external drives or camera card readers directly to the NAS.
• Peripheral Support: These ports also support other peripherals like UPS devices for power protection essential for any NAS system or USB Wi-Fi adapters, although wired is always preferred for consistent performance.

The inclusion of these high-speed USB ports future-proofs the device and significantly enhances its versatility for various data management workflows. Sackboy A Big Adventure For Pc Review

It’s like having multiple high-speed express lanes for your external data.

Storage Flexibility and M.2 NVMe Cache: Turbocharging Your Data

A NAS is fundamentally about storage, and the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T doesn’t just offer bays for hard drives.

It provides a sophisticated, flexible storage architecture designed for both capacity and blazing speed.

This blend ensures that whether you’re archiving terabytes of data or running demanding virtual machines, your storage performance won’t be a bottleneck.

Four Hot-Swappable Drive Bays

The AS6704T comes with four hot-swappable drive bays, supporting both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA hard drives HDDs and solid-state drives SSDs.

• Capacity: Each bay can accommodate the largest capacity drives available on the market today, including 22TB or even 24TB HDDs. This means a potential raw capacity of up to 96TB 4 x 24TB, which is an incredible amount of storage for most prosumers and small businesses.
• Hot-Swappable Design: The ability to swap drives while the NAS is running is crucial for maintaining uptime. If a drive fails in a RAID array, you can replace it without powering down the system, ensuring continuous access to your data.
• Drive Compatibility: Asustor maintains a comprehensive compatibility list, but generally, it supports most consumer and enterprise-grade SATA HDDs and SSDs. For optimal performance and reliability, NAS-optimized hard drives like Western Digital Red Pro or Seagate IronWolf Pro are highly recommended due to their 24/7 operational design and vibration compensation.
• RAID Support: ADM Asustor Data Master supports a wide range of RAID configurations:
  • RAID 0: For maximum speed, no redundancy. Generally not recommended for critical data.
  • RAID 1: Mirroring, 50% capacity, excellent redundancy.
  • RAID 5: Good balance of capacity and redundancy, requires at least 3 drives, tolerates one drive failure.
  • RAID 6: Higher redundancy, requires at least 4 drives, tolerates two drive failures.
  • RAID 10: Combines mirroring and striping, excellent performance and redundancy, requires at least 4 drives.
  • JBOD: Just a Bunch Of Disks, no redundancy.
  • Single Disk: No redundancy.
  • Asustor MyArchive: Unique feature allowing you to hot-swap individual hard drives as cold storage or removable backup media, essentially like a massive hard drive cartridge.

For most users, RAID 5 or RAID 6 provides the best blend of usable capacity and data protection. RAID 6, in particular, offers peace of mind against multiple drive failures, which becomes more critical as drive capacities increase.

Dual M.2 NVMe SSD Slots for Caching

This is where the AS6704T truly accelerates. Below the main drive bays, you’ll find two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots. These slots are specifically designed for SSD caching, dramatically improving the read and write performance of frequently accessed data.

• PCIe Gen3 x1 Interface: While not Gen4, a PCIe Gen3 x1 interface for each M.2 slot is sufficient for caching purposes in a 2.5GbE NAS. The bottleneck will almost always be the network rather than the M.2 cache in most scenarios. Even an entry-level NVMe SSD like the Crucial P5 Plus can saturate a 2.5GbE connection.
• Cache Types:
  • Read-Only Cache: Accelerates data retrieval for frequently read files. Ideal for scenarios where many users access the same files repeatedly e.g., a shared document repository, VM storage.
  • Read-Write Cache: Accelerates both reads and writes. This offers the most significant performance boost, particularly for random I/O operations common in databases, virtual machines, or environments with many small file transactions. Important: For read-write cache, it’s highly recommended to use an uninterruptible power supply UPS like the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD to prevent data loss in case of power failure, as data might reside temporarily on the cache and not yet be written to the slower HDDs.
• Impact: A well-configured NVMe cache can transform the user experience. Opening large applications or booting virtual machines from the NAS feels almost as fast as if they were stored on a local SSD. For example, if you’re frequently accessing a set of project files, the cache will ensure those files are served at SSD speeds, rather than HDD speeds, which can be 10-20x slower for random access.
• Storage Pool: You can also use the M.2 NVMe SSDs to create a separate, high-speed storage pool for performance-critical applications, rather than solely for caching. This is an excellent option for running demanding virtual machines or Docker containers directly on the NVMe drives.

The ability to integrate high-speed NVMe SSDs positions the AS6704T as a truly performant NAS solution, capable of handling demanding workloads that traditional HDD-only NAS systems would struggle with.

It’s like adding a turbocharger to your data engine. Aaxa P400 Short Throw Mini Projector Review

Operating System: ADM Asustor Data Master and User Experience

The hardware capabilities of a NAS are only as good as the software that manages them. Asustor’s proprietary operating system, ADM Asustor Data Master, is the control center for the Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T. It’s designed to be intuitive enough for beginners while offering advanced features for power users.

Intuitive Interface and Core Features

ADM provides a desktop-like graphical user interface GUI accessible via a web browser.

It’s clean, well-organized, and surprisingly responsive, especially on the Gen 2 hardware.

• Desktop Layout: Features a familiar icon-based desktop, customizable widgets, and a taskbar. This makes navigation easy, even for those new to NAS systems.
• App Central: This is Asustor’s equivalent of an app store, offering a vast array of first-party and third-party applications. These apps extend the functionality of the NAS far beyond simple file storage.
  • File Explorer: A robust web-based file manager for browsing, uploading, downloading, and managing files directly from the browser.
  • Backup & Restore: Comprehensive tools for backing up data from your NAS to cloud services Amazon S3, Backblaze B2, OneDrive, Google Drive, external drives, or other NAS devices. It also supports RSync and FTP.
  • DataSync Center: Centralizes multiple cloud synchronization services, allowing you to sync files with various cloud platforms seamlessly.
  • ADM Defender: Built-in firewall and network protection features to secure your NAS from external threats.
  • Resource Monitor: Provides real-time insights into CPU, RAM, network, and disk utilization, helping you diagnose performance issues.
  • Privilege Management: Granular control over user accounts, groups, and folder permissions, essential for multi-user environments.

One of ADM’s strengths is its focus on ease of use without sacrificing depth.

For example, setting up a new RAID array is a guided process, but advanced users can delve into network settings, SSH access, or intricate backup schedules.

Advanced Features and Ecosystem

Beyond the basics, ADM offers a rich ecosystem of advanced features that cater to a wide range of needs.

• Virtualization:
  • VirtualBox: Allows you to run full-fledged operating systems Windows, Linux, macOS as virtual machines directly on the NAS. This is incredibly powerful for testing environments, running legacy software, or hosting lightweight server applications. The N5105 CPU and expandable RAM make this a viable option.
  • Docker: ADM supports Docker, enabling you to deploy and manage containerized applications with ease. This is ideal for developers, self-hosters, and anyone looking to run lightweight services e.g., Plex Media Server, Home Assistant, VPN server efficiently without the overhead of a full VM. Asustor’s Portainer integration simplifies Docker management.
• Multimedia:
  • Plex Media Server: A highly popular app for organizing, streaming, and transcoding your media library. The N5105’s integrated graphics are excellent for hardware transcoding up to 4K content, ensuring smooth playback on various devices.
  • LooksGood/SoundsGood: Asustor’s native multimedia management apps for photos, videos, and podcast. They offer basic streaming and organization features.
  • HDMI Output AS6704T does NOT have HDMI, but some other Asustor models do: While this specific model lacks HDMI, it’s worth noting that some other Asustor models offer it for direct connection to a TV, turning the NAS into a media player. For the AS6704T, you’ll rely on network streaming to client devices.
• Surveillance:
  • Surveillance Center: Turns your NAS into a powerful network video recorder NVR for IP cameras. It supports over 800 camera models and offers features like motion detection, scheduled recording, and live view. The AS6704T comes with licenses for 4 free camera channels, with more available for purchase. This is a robust alternative to dedicated NVRs.
• Networking:
  • VPN Server/Client: Configure the NAS as a VPN server to securely access your home network remotely, or as a VPN client to route all NAS traffic through a VPN service.
  • EZ Connect: Asustor’s simplified remote access solution, making it easier to set up port forwarding and access your NAS from outside your local network without complex router configurations.
  • DDNS Support: Integrates with various Dynamic DNS providers to ensure your NAS remains accessible even if your public IP address changes.

The rich feature set of ADM, combined with the capable hardware of the AS6704T, makes it a highly versatile device suitable for a wide range of personal and professional applications.

The continuous development and updates to ADM also ensure that the NAS remains current with new technologies and security patches.

Backup and Data Protection: Safeguarding Your Digital Life

One of the primary reasons to invest in a NAS is for robust data backup and protection. The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T provides a comprehensive suite of tools within ADM to ensure your valuable data is safe from accidental deletion, hardware failure, or even ransomware attacks. Remember the adage: “Two is one, and one is none.” Relying on a single copy of your data is a recipe for disaster. Hp Pavilion Laptop 14 2022 Review

Multi-Layered Backup Solutions

ADM offers a variety of backup options, allowing you to implement a multi-layered backup strategy that adheres to best practices like the 3-2-1 backup rule 3 copies of data, on 2 different media, with 1 copy offsite.

• Internal RAID: As discussed, configuring your hard drives in a RAID array e.g., RAID 1, 5, 6, 10 provides crucial protection against individual drive failures. If one or two drives fail, your data remains accessible, and you can rebuild the array with new drives.
• External Backup USB: The AS6704T’s high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports make it ideal for connecting external hard drives or SSDs for local backups.
  • One Touch Backup: The front USB port often has a “one-touch” backup button, allowing you to quickly copy the contents of a connected USB drive to a predefined folder on the NAS, or vice-versa.
  • Backup Plan: Create scheduled backup jobs to external USB drives, ensuring automated, regular backups of critical data.
• Network Backup RSync/FTP:
  • NAS to NAS: Back up data from your AS6704T to another Asustor NAS, a Synology, QNAP, or any other device supporting RSync or FTP. This is excellent for creating an offsite backup at a friend’s house or a secondary office.
  • PC/Server to NAS: Use RSync or network shares to back up data from your computers and servers to the AS6704T.
• Cloud Backup: ADM integrates with numerous popular cloud storage services:
  • Amazon S3 / S3 Compatible: For object storage, highly scalable and durable.
  • Backblaze B2: A cost-effective cloud storage solution.
  • Microsoft OneDrive: Integrates with your Microsoft account.
  • Google Drive: Syncs with your Google Drive.
  • Dropbox: For personal and business cloud storage.
  • Baidu Cloud / HiDrive / ASUS WebStorage: Other regional or specific cloud services.
  • This allows you to create offsite backups to a secure, remote location, protecting against local disasters like fire or theft.

Snapshot Technology and Data Recovery

A powerful feature in modern NAS systems, and present in ADM, is snapshot technology. This isn’t just a backup. it’s a version history of your data.

• How it Works: Snapshots create “point-in-time” copies of your shared folders or iSCSI LUNs. They record only the changes made since the last snapshot, making them very space-efficient.
• Ransomware Protection: If your NAS files are encrypted by ransomware, you can simply revert to a snapshot taken before the attack, recovering your data without paying a ransom. This is one of the most effective defenses against ransomware.
• Accidental Deletion/Modification: Easily restore previous versions of files or entire folders if they are accidentally deleted or modified.
• Granularity: You can schedule snapshots to be taken frequently e.g., hourly, daily and retain them for specific periods, giving you fine-grained control over your data’s version history.
• Volume-Based: Snapshots are typically taken at the volume level, meaning they capture the state of all data within that volume.

Consider a scenario where a critical document is accidentally overwritten or deleted.

With snapshots enabled, you can browse through historical versions of the file and restore the correct one within seconds, often without needing to restore an entire backup.

This significantly reduces recovery time objectives RTOs.

Asustor EZ Sync and MyArchive

Two additional features enhance data synchronization and cold storage:

• Asustor EZ Sync: Similar to Dropbox or Google Drive, EZ Sync allows you to synchronize files between your NAS and your computers Windows, macOS. This ensures that files are always up-to-date across all your devices, providing both convenience and an additional layer of file versioning. It’s excellent for collaboration.
• MyArchive: A unique Asustor feature that allows you to format individual hard drives as “MyArchive” volumes. These volumes can be inserted into any MyArchive-compatible Asustor NAS and accessed like a removable hard drive. This is perfect for:
  • Cold Storage: Archiving large amounts of data that don’t need to be online 24/7 e.g., old projects, family photos.
  • Offsite Backup Rotation: Creating physical backup copies that can be taken offsite for disaster recovery.
  • Data Transport: Easily moving large datasets between different Asustor NAS devices.

The combination of robust RAID, diverse backup options, powerful snapshot technology, and unique features like MyArchive makes the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T a highly reliable platform for safeguarding your most important digital assets.

Implementing a comprehensive backup strategy using these tools is paramount.

Power Consumption and Acoustics: Living with Your NAS

A NAS is designed to run 24/7, making its power consumption and noise levels critical considerations, especially if it’s located in a living space or small office. Acer Chromebook 516 Ge Review

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T performs admirably in both these areas, thanks to its efficient processor and thoughtful design.

Energy Efficiency: Intel Celeron N5105 at the Core

The choice of the Intel Celeron N5105 processor is a key factor in the AS6704T’s energy efficiency. With a low 10W TDP Thermal Design Power, this CPU sips power compared to desktop-grade processors.

• Typical Power Consumption Operational: When fully loaded with four HDDs and perhaps some SSD caching, the AS6704T typically consumes around 25-35 watts. This will vary based on the specific hard drives used HDDs consume more power than SSDs, the number of active drives, and the workload.
• Idle Power Consumption: In a quiescent state disks spun down, low activity, the power draw can drop significantly, often down to 10-15 watts. ADM offers power management settings to control disk spin-down times, further reducing consumption.
• Sleep Mode: When configured, the NAS can enter a deeper sleep mode, consuming as little as 1-2 watts. Wake-on-LAN WoL ensures it can be brought back online remotely.
• Cost Savings: Running a device 24/7, even a small reduction in wattage can lead to noticeable savings over a year. For example, a 10-watt difference translates to roughly 87 kWh per year. At an average electricity rate of $0.15/kWh common in many parts of the US, that’s about $13 per year saved – not a fortune, but it adds up over the lifespan of the device. More importantly, it contributes to a greener footprint.

The N5105’s power efficiency ensures that the AS6704T won’t be a significant drain on your electricity bill, making it an economical choice for always-on operation.

Acoustic Performance: Quiet Operation

A NAS generating excessive noise can be a major annoyance, especially in a home office or living room environment.

The AS6704T is generally well-regarded for its relatively quiet operation.

• Fan Design: The unit typically uses a single, larger fan often 120mm at the rear to expel heat. Larger fans can move more air at lower RPMs, resulting in less noise compared to smaller, faster-spinning fans.
• HDD Noise: The primary source of noise in any multi-bay NAS will almost always be the hard drives themselves. Enterprise or NAS-specific drives like Western Digital Red Plus/Pro or Seagate IronWolf/IronWolf Pro are designed with features like rotational vibration compensation to minimize noise and improve reliability, but they still produce audible clicks and hums, especially during heavy read/write operations.
• SSD Advantage: If you use the M.2 NVMe slots for a storage pool or caching, these SSDs are completely silent, reducing the overall acoustic output when the primary HDDs are spun down.
• Typical Noise Levels: In an idle state with HDDs spun down, the AS6704T typically operates below 20 dBA, which is barely audible in a quiet room. Under load, with HDDs active, this can increase to 30-35 dBA, which is still very quiet, comparable to a low hum or a desktop computer running silently.
• Vibration Dampening: Asustor employs rubber grommets or other dampening mechanisms in the drive trays to absorb vibrations from the hard drives, preventing them from being amplified by the chassis.

While no NAS with spinning hard drives will be absolutely silent, the AS6704T’s design prioritizes a low acoustic footprint.

If absolute silence is paramount, consider housing it in a server closet or opting for an all-SSD solution though this would be significantly more expensive for large capacities. For most users, its quiet operation makes it suitable for placement in common areas without being disruptive.

Use Cases and Target Audience: Who is the AS6704T For?

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but its robust feature set and performance capabilities make it an excellent fit for several specific user groups.

Understanding its strengths helps identify whether it’s the right investment for your digital needs. High On Life For Pc Review

Power Users and Prosumers

This is arguably the sweet spot for the AS6704T.

These are individuals who go beyond simple file storage and demand more from their home network infrastructure.

• Media Enthusiasts: For those with extensive 4K movie and TV show libraries, the N5105’s powerful hardware transcoding via Plex Media Server ensures smooth streaming to multiple devices, even if they don’t support the original file format. It’s ideal for a central media hub.
• Photographers/Videographers: Working with large RAW image files or uncompressed 4K/8K video footage requires fast storage and network access. The 2.5GbE ports, combined with NVMe caching, make accessing and editing projects directly on the NAS a viable and efficient workflow.
• Home Automation Enthusiasts: Running Docker containers for Home Assistant, security cameras via Surveillance Center, or other IoT-related services benefits from the dedicated processing power and always-on nature of a NAS.
• Data Hoarders: With support for up to 96TB of raw capacity, the AS6704T provides ample room for ever-growing digital collections, from family photos and videos to personal archives and software libraries.
• Homelabbers/IT Professionals: The ability to run VirtualBox VMs and Docker containers makes it an excellent platform for testing new software, hosting small development environments, or running network services like VPNs, DNS servers, or authentication servers. The ADM OS provides the flexibility needed for these advanced use cases.

Small Businesses and Startups

The AS6704T also presents a strong case for small businesses and startups looking for an affordable yet powerful server replacement or dedicated storage solution.

• Centralized File Server: Provides a robust and reliable central repository for shared documents, project files, and company data, accessible by all employees. Granular permission control ensures data security.
• Backup Server: Serves as a primary destination for backing up employee workstations, servers, and critical business data, employing RAID for redundancy and cloud/offsite backups for disaster recovery. The snapshot feature is invaluable for rapid recovery from accidental deletions or ransomware.
• Surveillance Solution: Integrates seamlessly with IP cameras, offering a cost-effective and capable surveillance system for monitoring office premises, warehouses, or retail spaces. The included camera licenses are a bonus.
• Virtual Machine Host: For small businesses that need to run a specific application e.g., accounting software, CRM system on a dedicated server but don’t want to invest in expensive server hardware, the AS6704T can host a lightweight VM.
• Collaboration: Features like EZ Sync facilitate real-time file synchronization and collaboration among team members, improving productivity.

Its relatively compact footprint, lower power consumption compared to traditional servers, and rich software features make it an attractive option for businesses that need robust IT infrastructure without a dedicated IT department or large budget.

It’s a stepping stone from scattered individual storage to a professional, centralized data management system.

Comparison with Competitors: Standing Out in the NAS Landscape

The NAS market is fiercely competitive, with established players like Synology and QNAP often dominating the conversation.

While Asustor may not have the same brand recognition as its larger rivals, the Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T carves out a compelling niche, particularly with its blend of hardware specifications and feature set.

Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T vs. Synology DiskStation DS923+

• Processor:
  • AS6704T: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core, up to 2.9 GHz, with good integrated graphics for transcoding.
  • DS923+: AMD Ryzen R1600 dual-core, up to 3.1 GHz, no integrated graphics for hardware transcoding.
  • Verdict: For multimedia especially 4K transcoding, the AS6704T has a clear edge. For pure CPU horsepower in specific tasks not requiring integrated graphics, the R1600 can be slightly better.
• Network:
  • AS6704T: Dual 2.5GbE ports built-in.
  • DS923+: Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, optional 10GbE upgrade via PCIe slot which uses up your only expansion slot.
  • Verdict: AS6704T wins for out-of-the-box multi-Gigabit connectivity. You get 2.5GbE without needing an extra purchase or sacrificing an expansion slot.
• M.2 NVMe Slots:
  • AS6704T: Two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 x1 slots for caching or storage pool.
  • DS923+: Two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 x2 slots for caching or storage pool Synology often recommends their own branded NVMe drives for official support, though third-party drives often work.
  • Verdict: Both offer excellent NVMe integration. The DS923+ has a slightly faster PCIe lane per slot, but for 2.5GbE, both are more than adequate.
• Operating System OS:
  • AS6704T: ADM Asustor Data Master
  • DS923+: DSM DiskStation Manager
  • Verdict: DSM is often cited as the most user-friendly and mature NAS OS with the widest app ecosystem. ADM has come a long way and offers robust features especially in virtualization and Docker, but DSM still holds a slight lead in polish and breadth of integrated services. For beginners, DSM might feel more intuitive.
• Price Diskless: Generally, the AS6704T tends to be slightly more affordable than the DS923+ at similar configurations.

Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T vs. QNAP TS-464

*   AS6704T: Intel Celeron N5105.
*   TS-464: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 same processor family.
*   Verdict: Similar performance on the CPU front. Both excel at hardware transcoding.
*   AS6704T: Dual 2.5GbE ports.
*   TS-464: Dual 2.5GbE ports.
*   Verdict: A tie here, both offer excellent out-of-the-box multi-Gigabit connectivity.
*   AS6704T: Two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 x1 slots.
*   TS-464: Two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 slots often x2 lanes.
*   Verdict: Similar functionality, both are highly effective for caching. QNAP might have slightly more bandwidth per slot but the practical difference for 2.5GbE is negligible.
*   AS6704T: ADM.
*   TS-464: QTS.
*   Verdict: QTS is known for its extensive features, often catering more to advanced users and businesses. It can be more complex to navigate for beginners than ADM or DSM. ADM strikes a good balance between user-friendliness and powerful features.

• Unique Features:
  • AS6704T: MyArchive for removable cold storage.
  • TS-464: HDMI 2.0 output for direct display connection turning the NAS into a media center PC.
  • Verdict: If direct HDMI output is a priority, the TS-464 wins. If cold storage and easy offline archiving are important, MyArchive is a differentiator for Asustor.

Overall Standing

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T positions itself as a strong contender for value and out-of-the-box performance.

• Strengths:
  • Excellent Price/Performance Ratio: Offers a very capable CPU and dual 2.5GbE at a competitive price.
  • Built-in 2.5GbE: No need for extra investments or sacrificing expansion slots for multi-Gigabit networking.
  • Strong Multimedia Capabilities: The N5105’s integrated graphics shine for Plex and other media tasks.
  • Comprehensive Software: ADM is mature, feature-rich, and generally user-friendly, supporting virtualization, Docker, and robust backup options.
• Areas for Consideration:
  • Brand Recognition: Less recognized than Synology, which might mean a slightly smaller community for troubleshooting.
  • App Ecosystem: While ADM’s App Central is extensive, DSM still holds a lead in sheer number and variety of third-party apps, particularly some niche ones.

In essence, if you’re looking for a powerful, efficient, and well-connected 4-bay NAS with a focus on virtualization, multimedia, and robust data protection, the AS6704T presents a very compelling alternative to the more ubiquitous brands, often offering similar or superior hardware features for your dollar.

It’s a smart pick for those who know what they need and appreciate solid engineering. Creative Zen Hybrid Review

Future-Proofing and Longevity: A Long-Term Investment

Investing in a NAS is a significant decision, and you want to ensure your chosen device will remain relevant and capable for years to come.

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T is designed with several features that contribute to its longevity and ability to adapt to future technological shifts.

Hardware Design for Upgradability

The AS6704T’s hardware configuration is a key factor in its future-proofing:

• Processor Intel N5105: While not the absolute latest, the N5105 is a modern, efficient quad-core CPU with excellent integrated graphics. Its performance is more than sufficient for current and anticipated needs for a prosumer/SMB NAS for at least the next 3-5 years. It handles 4K transcoding and virtualization well, which are often the most demanding tasks.
• RAM Expandability up to 16GB DDR4: This is a huge advantage. As new applications emerge or your use cases become more complex e.g., more Docker containers, larger VMs, the ability to easily upgrade RAM prevents the system from becoming a bottleneck. Many competing NAS models have soldered RAM or more limited upgrade options.
• Dual 2.5GbE Ports: The inclusion of two 2.5GbE ports built-in is a forward-thinking move. While 10GbE is still niche for many home users due to cost, 2.5GbE is rapidly becoming the new standard. Most new motherboards, Wi-Fi 6E access points, and even some laptops now come with 2.5GbE. This ensures your NAS won’t be the slowest link in your network for years to come without needing an expensive add-in card.
• M.2 NVMe Slots: Dedicated NVMe slots for caching or fast storage pools are crucial. SSD technology continues to evolve, and having these slots allows you to leverage faster storage for demanding applications, extending the life of your HDD-based storage array by offloading high-I/O tasks.
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps: These high-speed USB ports mean you can connect the fastest external storage devices for backups or expansion, ensuring quick data transfers for years.

The combination of a capable CPU, expandable RAM, multi-Gigabit networking, and NVMe support means the core hardware of the AS6704T is ready for the next wave of data demands.

Software Support and Continuous Development ADM

Hardware is only half the equation. the software needs to evolve as well.

Asustor’s commitment to ADM updates is vital for longevity.

• Regular OS Updates: Asustor regularly releases ADM updates that include:
  • Security Patches: Crucial for protecting your data against new vulnerabilities.
  • Feature Enhancements: Adding new applications, improving existing ones, and integrating with new cloud services.
  • Performance Optimizations: Ensuring the OS runs efficiently on the hardware.
  • Driver Updates: Supporting newer hardware, including higher-capacity hard drives.
• Long-Term Support: Historically, Asustor has provided long-term support for its NAS models, ensuring they receive updates for several years post-release. This contrasts with some consumer electronics that might only get a year or two of significant software updates.
• App Central Growth: The continuous addition of new apps and updates to existing ones in App Central means the NAS can adapt to new use cases and integrate with emerging services. The strong support for Docker, in particular, allows users to deploy virtually any software that runs in a container, ensuring extreme flexibility far into the future.
• Community and Documentation: While perhaps smaller than Synology’s, Asustor has an active community forum and good official documentation, which is important for troubleshooting and getting the most out of your device.

It’s designed to grow with your needs, not become obsolete after a year or two.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T?

The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen 2 AS6704T is a high-performance, 4-bay network-attached storage NAS device designed for prosumers, small businesses, and media enthusiasts.

What processor does the AS6704T use?

It is powered by an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor, offering excellent performance for various tasks, including 4K media transcoding.

How much RAM does the AS6704T come with and can it be upgraded?

It comes with 4GB of DDR4 SO-DIMM RAM and can be user-upgraded to a maximum of 16GB. Brother Ads 3300W Wireless High Speed Desktop Scanner Review

Does the AS6704T have 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports?

Yes, it features two built-in 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet 2.5GbE ports for high-speed network connectivity.

Can I use Link Aggregation LACP with the 2.5GbE ports?

Yes, you can aggregate the two 2.5GbE ports for theoretical throughput of up to 500 MB/s when connected to a compatible switch.

How many drive bays does the AS6704T have?

It has four hot-swappable drive bays, supporting both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA HDDs and SSDs.

Does the AS6704T support M.2 NVMe SSDs?

Yes, it has two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots for SSD caching or creating a high-speed storage pool.

What are the M.2 NVMe slots used for?

They can be used for read-only cache, read-write cache, or as a separate high-performance storage volume for applications like virtual machines or Docker containers.

What RAID levels does the AS6704T support?

It supports a wide range of RAID configurations including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, JBOD, and Single Disk.

What is ADM?

ADM stands for Asustor Data Master, which is Asustor’s intuitive, desktop-like operating system for their NAS devices.

Can I run Plex Media Server on the AS6704T?

Yes, the AS6704T is excellent for Plex Media Server, with the N5105’s integrated graphics providing strong hardware transcoding capabilities for 4K content.

Does the AS6704T support virtualization?

Yes, ADM’s VirtualBox app allows you to run virtual machines e.g., Windows, Linux directly on the NAS.

Can I use Docker on the AS6704T?

Yes, ADM supports Docker, enabling you to deploy and manage containerized applications with ease, often with Portainer integration. Tp Link Archer Ax21 Ax1800 Dual Band Wi Fi 6 Router Review

Is the AS6704T good for surveillance?

Yes, the Surveillance Center app turns the NAS into a network video recorder NVR and includes licenses for 4 free camera channels.

How are backups handled on the AS6704T?

It offers extensive backup options including RSync, FTP, cloud backup Amazon S3, Backblaze B2, Google Drive, OneDrive, external USB backups, and Snapshot technology.

What is Snapshot technology on Asustor NAS?

Snapshots create point-in-time copies of your shared folders, allowing for easy recovery from accidental deletions, modifications, or ransomware attacks.

What is MyArchive?

MyArchive is a unique Asustor feature that allows you to format individual hard drives as removable cold storage or backup media, similar to large cartridges.

What is Asustor EZ Sync?

EZ Sync is a feature for synchronizing files between your NAS and your computers, similar to cloud syncing services like Dropbox.

Is the AS6704T power efficient?

Yes, thanks to the low TDP 10W Intel Celeron N5105 processor, it has low power consumption, especially when idle.

Is the AS6704T noisy?

It is generally quiet, especially with HDDs spun down.

The noise levels are primarily dictated by the hard drives themselves, but the system’s cooling is efficient.

Can I access the AS6704T remotely?

Yes, ADM offers features like EZ Connect, VPN server/client, and DDNS support for secure remote access. Acer Predator Triton 300 Se 2022 16 Inch Review

Does the AS6704T have an HDMI port?

No, the AS6704T model does not have an HDMI port.

For direct display connectivity, you would need to look at other Asustor models that feature it.

Is the AS6704T suitable for a small business?

Yes, its capabilities for centralized file storage, robust backup, surveillance, and basic virtualization make it a strong option for small businesses.

What kind of hard drives should I use with the AS6704T?

For optimal performance and reliability, it is highly recommended to use NAS-specific hard drives like Western Digital Red Pro or Seagate IronWolf Pro.

How does the AS6704T compare to Synology DS923+ for multimedia?

The AS6704T with its Intel N5105 has an advantage in hardware transcoding for multimedia tasks compared to the Synology DS923+’s AMD Ryzen R1600.

How does the AS6704T compare to QNAP TS-464 for networking?

Both the AS6704T and QNAP TS-464 feature dual 2.5GbE ports, offering similar high-speed network connectivity out of the box.

What is the typical lifespan of a NAS like the AS6704T?

With proper maintenance, regular software updates, and reliable hard drives, a NAS like the AS6704T can easily last 5-7 years or more.

Do I need a UPS for my NAS?

Yes, a UPS Uninterruptible Power Supply is highly recommended to protect your NAS from power outages and surges, allowing for graceful shutdown and preventing data corruption, especially if using an SSD read-write cache.

Can I install third-party apps on the AS6704T?

Yes, through App Central and its support for Docker, you can install a wide range of first-party and third-party applications.

Is the AS6704T easy to set up for a beginner?

While it has advanced features, Asustor’s ADM operating system is designed to be user-friendly, with guided setup processes that make it accessible for beginners. Hydrow Wave Review