Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS218 (Diskless)
Status: Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS218: Unavailable on Amazon as of . SpecPicks has no in-stock listing with matching specs on file; the search below lists current offers. eBay sellers may still list this model new or used.
Bottom line: The Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS218: Quad-core 64-bit CPU sustains 112 MB/s read and 112 MB/s write sequential throughput; main trade-off: only 2 bays limits you to RAID 1 or JBOD, no RAID 5 expansion path.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Quad-core 64-bit CPU sustains 112 MB/s read and 112 MB/s write sequential throughput
- ✓ 2 GB DDR4, four times the memory of the previous DS216 generation
- ✓ On-the-fly 4K 10-bit H.265 transcoding for Plex and DS Video streaming
- ✓ DSM software adds backup, VPN, Docker and photo apps at no extra license cost
- ✓ Single volume scales to 108 TB, so two large drives leave headroom for years
Cons
- ✗ Only 2 bays limits you to RAID 1 or JBOD, no RAID 5 expansion path
- ✗ 2 GB DDR4 is soldered and cannot be upgraded for heavier VM or container loads
- ✗ Older client support list tops out at Windows 10 and macOS 10.11-era browsers
- ✗ 2-year limited warranty is shorter than the 3-5 years on Synology Plus models
Manufacturer description
Synology Disk Station DS218 is a high-performance and versatile 2-bay NAS designed for small offices and home users to effectively manage, protect, and share data. Its 64-bit quad-core processor delivers high-speed data transmission and 10-bit 4K H.265 video transcoding to empower shared data storage and multimedia entertainment. Synology DS218 is backed by Synology's 2-year limited warranty. Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS218 using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the external storage category. Synology's external storage lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for external storage of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Key Features
- Versatile 2-bay NAS for small offices and home users
- 64-bit quad-core processor, delivering sequential throughput at over 112 MB/s reading and 112 MB/s writing
- 2 GB DDR4 memory, 4 times the capacity than its predecessor
- 4K 10-bit H.265 video transcoding on the fly. Supported client- Windows 7 and 10, Mac OS X 10.11 onwards. Supported browser- Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer 10 onwards, Safari 10 onwards; Safari (iOS 10 onwards), Chrome (Android 6.0 onwards)
- Running on Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM). Maximum Single Volume Size:108 TB
Full Specifications
| Size | 2-bay; 2GB DDR4 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Synology |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | DS218 |
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, Mac |
| Mounting Type | Tabletop |
| Built-In Media | AC power adapter x 1, Accessory pack x 1, DS218 main unit x 1, Quick Installation Guide x 1, RJ-45 LAN cable x 1 |
| Item Type Name | Synology DS218 2 Bay NAS Diskstation (Diskless) |
| Storage Volume | 108 TB |
| Mfr Part Number | DS218 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop |
| Enclosure Material | Metal |
| Warranty Description | 2 Years |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00846504002962 |
Ready to buy?
Amazon shows no buyable offer for Synology 2 Bay NAS DiskStation DS218 at the last check. An Amazon search for this model lists current offers. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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