Introduction

We would like to thank Synology for supplying the review sample.

In a previous review we tested the Synology DiskStation DS412+ which in the end left us quite satisfied with its features and the performance it achieved. Nevertheless, these tough economic times don't allow most users out there to invest such an amount of money for a NAS server, so in this review we are going to take a detailed look at a budget-friendly NAS from Synology, the DS212j. Unlike the DS412+ which is intended for small and medium business environments the DS212j is mostly for home or small office usage due to its entry level hardware and the fact that it takes only up to two, not hot-swap, disks; however it runs the same operating system as all other Synology NAS servers, the DSM 4, meaning that its functionality and features are not affected. On the contrary its small footprint along with the low power consumption make it more suitable for home environments where huge storage or higher RAID levels are not essential.

In a snap the DS212j, thanks to its low power consumption, can play the role of a 24/7 download server, is a DLNA certified media server, offers effortless backup, can be accessed from anywhere, needs only 17.6W (according to Synology) while operating and finally runs the famous Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system which offers a windowed interface to the user. Apparently the small DS212j hides more than meets the eye and we are very curious to find out more about its performance in real life scenarios, something that our test sessions will clearly show.

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.

Packaging

The small white packaging is sturdy enough to protect its contents till they reach the future buyer. On the front we find the name that Synology gave to all of their NAS servers: DiskStation, and on the bottom side several icons reside describing the most interesting features.


On one of the two sides we find a photo of the NAS along with a short description of its technical characteristics and features. Also a list of the package contents is given along with the languages that DSM supports. On the rear side there is an interesting illustration showing the connectivity of DS212j with other devices and the Internet.


Although the box is rather small and of low weight, it still features a carrying handle to help you move it around more easily.

Contents & Bundle

Once we opened the box we found two smaller compartments. The first stores the AC power cord and a smaller box with all accessories while in the other resides the NAS wrapped in a white plastic bag for more protection.


The bundle includes an AC power cord for the power brick, a network cable, two bags of screws, two leaflets and the installation disc.


The external power adapter is made by CWT so we expect it to be of high quality. It can deliver up to 5.4A at +12V (64.8W) meaning that it is pretty strong for the needs of the DS212j.