Specifications

A single core ARM CPU is the brains of the DS212j and despite its low computing power it will be enough, since this NAS doesn't support demanding RAID levels like RAID 5 or 6. Also the low frequency CPU will need less power leading to higher power saving, something important in NAS servers which usually work 24/7. The available RAM is only 256MB but like the CPU it should be enough, although most users would feel more confident with 512MB.

Unfortunately this NAS doesn't support hot-swap disks since you have to crack it open to install both of them. Thankfully this is a pretty straight-forward process and you only have to remove two screws to gain access to the disk compartment. Also via the optional adapters you can mount 2.5" disks if you want, either HDDs or SSDs, if you are rich, or don't care about capacity. Finally due to the limited amount of disks it takes, only RAID 0 and RAID 1 are supported.

Regarding networking, a single Gigabit Ethernet port is available and the remaining I/O ports include only a pair of USB 2.0. We would highly prefer it to have also an eSATA port.

The dimensions of the DS212j are compact and the same applies to its energy needs too, since it consumes only 17.6W in operation and 5.5W in sleep mode (according to Synology). The aforementioned power levels are very low indeed and if they stand they will easily allow you to keep this small NAS server constantly in operation. The external power adapter that feeds the NAS is pretty strong for its needs and is made by the well know PSU manufacturer CWT (Channel Well Technology), so we expect it to be highly reliable.

A single 92mm diameter fan cools down the NAS and promises efficiency along with minimal noise. Since the HDDs will produce most of the heat inside the DS212j, the fan will easily cope with the task.

Finally the warranty is kind of short like all NAS servers we have reviewed so far and the price is decent for what this product has to offer.