Budget-Friendly NAS Options for Homelabs

I personally do not think that a NAS is a correct storage for production enviroment, the world is going to the hyperconverged storage so vSAN and Ceph actually make the differences.
That’s why i’m setting up my VMs on a Ceph cluster on Proxmox but a NAS can be very useful to store backups and shared folders with datas that needs to be accessed from multiple sources – think about phones backups, VMs backups and so on.

So this is why i think that a NAS system on a budget is an excellent approach to organizing your data, ensuring backups, and even hosting media services right in your homelab. Fortunately, there are various affordable NAS solutions that deliver substantial value. In this post, we’ll explore the different options suitable for different needs and skill levels.

1. Raspberry Pi 4 with External Drives

• Cost: $50-100 for Raspberry Pi + external drives
• Overview: The Raspberry Pi 4, when combined with one or more USB external drives, serves as a budget-friendly DIY NAS setup. Utilizing software like OpenMediaVault, you can establish network shares and perform standard NAS functionalities.
• Best For: Light data storage, backups, and simple media streaming (like a DIY Plex server).
• Considerations: Its performance may be limited for high-demand applications; thus, it’s advisable to stick with USB 3.0 drives for enhanced data transfer speeds.

2. Synology DS220j (Entry-Level Pre-Built NAS)

• Cost: $150-200 (diskless)
• Overview: The Synology DS220j is a widely favored entry-level NAS dedicated to homelabs and household use. It boasts a user-friendly interface along with various apps for media management, file sharing, backups, and even Docker containers.
• Best For: Beginners seeking an intuitive, dependable NAS without the hassles of DIY assembly. It’s excellent for media streaming and basic file storage.
• Considerations: With limited RAM and CPU power, it’s not suited for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.

3. HP Proliant MicroServer Gen8 or Gen10

• Cost: $200-400 (used or refurbished)
• Overview: The HP MicroServer series is an economical and upgradeable option that accommodates multiple drive configurations, making it an ideal candidate for a NAS. Using software options like TrueNAS or Unraid can meet more intensive storage requirements than entry-level NAS devices.
• Best For: Intermediate users who are searching for a budget server that can also serve as a NAS.
• Considerations: It necessitates initial setup and configuration; thus, it’s best for users comfortable with DIY or keen on exploring various NAS operating systems.

4. Used Synology or QNAP NAS Models

• Cost: $100-250 (diskless)
• Overview: Older models from Synology and QNAP (such as the DS218 or DS216) are readily available in the second-hand market, offering dependable performance for most NAS functions like file sharing, backups, and media streaming.
• Best For: Users preferring a straightforward web-based NAS with minimal technical configuration.
• Considerations: These older models may have limited scalability and performance. However, they are perfect for budget-conscious individuals needing basic storage capabilities.

5. DIY NAS with Old Desktop or Server Hardware

• Cost: Varies ($100-300 depending on parts)
• Overview: If you happen to have an unused desktop or server lying around, consider converting it into a NAS using TrueNAS, Unraid, or OpenMediaVault. This offers flexibility, particularly if you require more CPU power or RAM for applications like Plex or Docker.
• Best For: Experienced users looking to repurpose existing hardware and set up a customized NAS while saving money in the process.
• Considerations: These setups typically consume more power than dedicated NAS units, and some knowledge of system configuration is necessary.

Final Tips for Budget NAS Setup

• Look for Diskless Models: Purchasing diskless devices and adding your own hard drives can significantly reduce initial spending.
• Use Open-Source Software: Solutions like TrueNAS, OpenMediaVault, and Unraid provide robust NAS functionalities without charging you licensing fees.
• Consider Future Expansion: Opt for a NAS with adequate bays or USB ports to accommodate additional storage as your needs evolve.

Building a budget-friendly NAS can transform your homelab experience, empowering you to centralize your data and manage it effectively without straining your finances. Whether you prefer a simple setup using a Raspberry Pi or a more complex arrangement with a refurbished HP Proliant MicroServer, there is a solution that fits your needs and skills.

Have you set up a budget NAS in your own homelab? Please share your experiences, tips, and any challenges you faced in the comments below!