Specifications

The competition at this price range uses weak single-core Marvel CPUs that struggle to cope with heavy tasks, but Asustor's NAS sticks out of the crowd by using a dual-core Atom CPU (four cores with Hyper-Threading), which will easily allow it to handle all NAS-specific tasks. 1 GB of DDR3 RAM is also more than enough for the custom-tailored Linux operating system Asustor designed.

Up to two HDDs can be installed into the AS-302T, with their maximum combined capacity reaching 8 TB. However, we are pretty sure that this NAS will fully support larger HDDs once they hit the market, extending its maximum capacity. To avoid compatibility problems, make sure to check Asustor's HDD compatibility list before buying any HDDs for the NAS.

Asustor found the second Ethernet port to be useless in home or SOHO environments, so they decided to only offer one, but we think two such ports would be much better since users could then combine both for double the transfer speed if a compatible switch is used. The other I/O ports include two USB 3.0 ports, with one of them located at the front, which makes using it easier, two USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI port to connect the NAS to a TV or monitor, and a 3.5mm port for audio output. This is the first time we come across a NAS with an audio port, and we are very pleased that Asustor was so thoughtful as to include audio capabilities without the use of compatible USB devices. We would now want to see S/PDIF or TOSLINK ports, but the only real downside here is the lack of eSATA ports.

Weight and dimensions of the AS-302T were kept low, so you won't have a problem finding a suitable spot for it in your office or living room. Its power consumption is also minimal, only reaching 20 W while the NAS is operating normally, which allows you to have it operate continuously (24/7) without worrying about high electricity bills. This particular unit is powered by a power brick that can deliver up to 60 W.

Like most of its competition, the AS-302T only comes with a two-year warranty, and Asustor's price looks fair, even low, for the capabilities and features this NAS provides.