Choosing between four-bay network-attached storage units usually comes down to whether you prioritize expandable throughput and caching or whisper-quiet, low-friction home media delivery. The QNAP TS-464 focuses squarely on high-speed connectivity and heavy multitasking with dual 2.5GbE networking, two integrated M.2 NVMe SSD slots, and up to 16 GB of memory headroom. In contrast, the Terramaster F4-425 targets personal media enthusiasts and living spaces by delivering a whisper-quiet 21dB(A) operating profile, quick PC-free setup via mobile app, and flexible TRAID storage arrays that handle up to 120TB of raw capacity.
Select the TS-464 if you require multi-client transfer speeds, solid-state caching acceleration, and ample RAM for data-heavy workloads. Choose the F4-425 if you want a silent, appliance-like home multimedia server that streams 4K video effortlessly without complicated network configuration.
QNAP TS-464 vs Terramaster F4-425 at a Glance
| Feature | QNAP TS-464 | Terramaster F4-425 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core (up to 2.9 GHz) | Intel x86 quad-core |
| Base System Memory | 8GB DDR4 | 4GB RAM |
| Maximum Memory Capacity | Up to 16 GB DDR4 | Not listed |
| Network Ports | Dual 2.5GbE (2.5G/1G/100M) | Single 2.5GbE |
| M.2 SSD Slots | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe | Not listed |
| USB Interface | Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gb/s Type-A) | Not listed |
| Drive Bays and Maximum Capacity | 4 bays (SATA 6 Gb/s, 7200 rpm hot-swappable) | 4 bays (up to 120TB, 4 x 30TB) |
| Operating Noise Level | Not listed | 21dB(A) |
| Initial Setup Method | Standard network initialization | TNAS Mobile app (PC-free) |
| Hardware Encryption | Intel AES-NI engine | SPC module security |
| Best For | Multi-client office teams and SSD-accelerated workloads | Quiet living-room media streaming and automated home backups |
Network Connectivity and Multi-Client Speed
Local network throughput defines how effectively a central storage hub handles concurrent file transfers, multi-stream media routing, and real-time project collaboration. When several workstations or mobile devices write to the appliance at once, a single network pipe quickly becomes congested. The TS-464 addresses bandwidth saturation directly by providing dual 2.5GbE ports that support link aggregation, network failover, and segregated subnet routing. This dual-port architecture allows demanding homes and professional setups to allocate dedicated lanes for large backups while keeping multimedia streaming or workstation editing responsive on the secondary interface.
The F4-425 includes a single 2.5GbE LAN interface designed to provide high-speed transfers over traditional gigabit infrastructure. For individual households streaming 4K video, downloading assets, or conducting nightly mobile backups, a single 2.5GbE connection offers plenty of headroom without bottlenecking single-client operations. However, because it lacks a secondary physical Ethernet port, it cannot split client traffic across independent networks or support multi-gigabit link trunking across separate network switches.
If your daily workflow involves multiple users moving large raw files simultaneously, the QNAP TS-464 dual 2.5GbE architecture offers superior routing flexibility and total network capacity. Shoppers comparing broader multi-drive ecosystems can see similar hardware balances in our synology ds423+ vs qnap ts-464 analysis. The single connection on the Terramaster unit remains well suited for standard single-stream family operations, but it lacks the physical redundancy required by growing multi-seat environments.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 – Dual 2.5GbE ports double physical throughput potential and enable network aggregation that the single port on the F4-425 cannot match.
Storage Caching and SSD Acceleration
Mechanical hard drives excel at storing massive volumes of bulk media, but their rotational design causes latency during frequent, random read and write requests. Solid-state drive caching bridges this divide by keeping hot data, application databases, and directory indexing on high-speed flash chips. The QNAP TS-464 M.2 NVMe slots incorporate two dedicated PCIe Gen3x2 bays directly into the chassis architecture. These slots allow users to configure dedicated read/write cache pools or create standalone all-flash high-speed storage tiers, leaving all four 3.5-inch drive bays completely free for mechanical bulk storage.
The Terramaster F4-425 listing does not specify any internal M.2 NVMe SSD slots. To operate the F4-425, you rely entirely on the four primary SATA drive bays. While modern 7200 rpm SATA drives deliver respectable sustained sequential speeds, random input/output operations across un-cached mechanical arrays experience noticeable latency when thumbnail generation, database queries, and background indexing occur concurrently.
Furthermore, external expansion speeds widen the gap between these systems. The TS-464 incorporates multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports delivering transfer speeds up to 10Gb/s for ultra-fast external drive offloading and expansion enclosures. The F4-425 listing does not specify USB 3.2 Gen 2 capabilities. For users managing vast libraries of creative assets or complex databases, the absence of onboard NVMe slots on the TerraMaster model limits long-term optimization.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 – Dedicated dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots allow high-speed caching without consuming any of the four primary 3.5-inch drive bays.
Processing Muscle and Memory Capacity
System memory and processing power determine how smoothly an appliance handles concurrent container services, background tasks, and multiple user logins. The TS-464 is powered by an Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core, four-thread processor capable of bursting up to 2.9 GHz. It ships with 8GB of DDR4 RAM pre-installed and officially supports expansion up to 16 GB DDR4 memory. This processing platform includes the integrated Intel AES-NI hardware encryption engine, which allows the NAS to protect confidential files and encrypt shared folders without dragging down file transfer performance.
The F4-425 is equipped with an Intel x86 quad-core processor paired with 4GB of RAM. While the listing does not specify the exact processor sub-model or memory expansion ceiling, this quad-core silicon easily manages multitasking, 50+ independent user accounts, and real-time synchronization tasks. However, operating with 4GB of base memory means the appliance has less breathing room when handling multiple background tasks, automated cloud synchronizations, and intensive media catalogs simultaneously.
For demanding users planning extensive multi-service deployments, the hardware ceiling on the TS-464 offers noticeable peace of mind. Similar memory scaling considerations are detailed in our qnap ts-464 vs ts-233 breakdown. The TS-464 gives power users double the starting memory and a verified upgrade path to 16 GB, ensuring the system stays responsive under continuous operational strain.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 – Twice the baseline memory at 8GB, verified 16 GB expansion support, and a 2.9 GHz burst quad-core CPU provide superior computational overhead.
Media Streaming and Hardware Transcoding
Network storage units increasingly serve as centralized media servers, streaming 4K movies and family footage across a variety of home screens. When evaluating the QNAP TS-464 or Terramaster F4-425 for Plex, hardware-accelerated video decoding is essential for converting formats on the fly when playback devices lack native support. The F4-425 establishes itself as a capable multimedia hub with hardware-level 4K H.265 decoding, offering seamless integration with Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin, alongside DLNA support for smooth cross-device playback. Its Photos application utilizes an integrated AI smart album engine to organize millions of personal images efficiently.
The TS-464 also handles personal multimedia streaming, utilizing its Intel quad-core processor with integrated graphics to organize family photos, music, and video collections centrally. Its raw hardware easily handles media serving, and the high-speed 10Gb/s USB ports make importing massive 4K camcorder archives straightforward. However, the software environment on the TerraMaster model places media streaming front and center, marketing out-of-the-box support for the most popular open-source and third-party media ecosystems directly to home consumers.
Shoppers comparing dedicated streaming platforms may also find valuable insights in our ugreen dxp4800 plus vs terramaster f4-425 comparison. While both machines can serve 4K streams via Plex and third-party tools, the F4-425 specifically optimizes its home multimedia server experience with broad platform validation across Jellyfin, Emby, DLNA, and smart photo sorting.
Edge: Tie – The TS-464 delivers stronger underlying hardware for media hosting, but the F4-425 offers dedicated hardware 4K H.265 decoding with explicit Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin support.
Acoustic Footprint and Physical Enclosure
Where a storage device lives inside your home dictates how critical acoustic dampening and drive tray ergonomics become. When deployed in a home office, living room, or bedroom, active cooling fan whine and drive vibration can become persistent irritants. The Terramaster F4-425 noise level is rated at just 21dB(A), delivering near-silent operation that blends seamlessly into peaceful living environments. Weighing 1.9 kg with compact dimensions of 8.74″D x 7.05″W x 6.06″H, its black plastic desktop chassis is unobtrusive on any tabletop.
The physical maintenance experience on the F4-425 is also streamlined through its tool-free Push-Lock drive tray mechanism. This design allows users to install 3.5-inch hard drives in roughly 10 seconds without searching for screwdrivers or small mounting screws. For home users who value painless physical setup and zero operational distraction, these enclosure details remove common friction points.
The TS-464 utilizes a desktop enclosure designed around high-performance enterprise-ready features, featuring hot-swappable drive trays configured for 7200 rpm SATA 6 Gb/s mechanical drives. The product listing does not specify a tested decibel rating for the TS-464. Because the chassis cools dual M.2 NVMe SSDs, an Intel processor running up to 2.9 GHz, and high-speed networking components, its cooling fans must maintain higher airflow under full system loads.
Edge: Terramaster F4-425 – Operates at a verified 21dB(A) acoustic profile and features 10-second tool-free Push-Lock drive trays for silent, hassle-free room placement.
RAID Flexibility, Backup Workflows, and Ease of Use
Securing digital records against drive failure requires dependable disk arrays and straightforward backup utilities. When choosing the QNAP TS-464 or Terramaster F4-425 for home backup, configuration complexity plays a major role. The F4-425 introduces exceptional storage management through its proprietary TRAID and TRAID+ array technology. TRAID provides flexible array expansion and redundancy while yielding up to 30% more usable storage space compared to traditional RAID setups when mixing drives of differing sizes. It accommodates up to 120TB of total storage across its four bays (supporting drives up to 30TB each).
Furthermore, the F4-425 allows complete system initialization via the TNAS Mobile app, letting you configure the server directly from a smartphone without ever touching a PC. The app handles automated camera roll backups, remote sync, and integrates with CloudSync for seamless offsite mirroring to Google Drive. The security stack includes an integrated SPC module and support for more than 50 independent user profiles.
The TS-464 approaches data protection through standardized storage architectures, offering robust SATA 6 Gb/s drive management with hot-swappable reliability. Hardware-level Intel AES-NI encryption ensures that confidential disks remain fully shielded from physical data theft. However, standard RAID arrays on the TS-464 do not offer the dynamic capacity reclaim found in TRAID when mixing drive sizes. For users exploring alternative home backup appliances, our synology ds224+ vs qnap ts-464 comparison outlines similar software trade-offs.
Edge: Terramaster F4-425 – Flexible TRAID/TRAID+ arrays reclaim up to 30% more capacity, while the TNAS Mobile app enables complete PC-free initialization and automated photo backup.
Pros and Cons
QNAP TS-464
Pros
- Dual 2.5GbE multi-gigabit network ports
- Two dedicated M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 slots
- 8GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 16GB
- Multiple 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
- Intel AES-NI hardware encryption engine
Cons
- Noise level not specified in listing
- No PC-free mobile initialization listed
Terramaster F4-425
Pros
- Ultra-quiet 21dB(A) operating noise level
- Tool-free 10-second Push-Lock drive trays
- PC-free setup via TNAS Mobile app
- Flexible TRAID storage up to 120TB
- Hardware 4K H.265 media decoding
Cons
- Only one 2.5GbE network interface
- No M.2 NVMe SSD slots listed
- Base 4GB memory without listed expansion
View Terramaster F4-425 on Amazon
Who Should Buy Each One
Choose the QNAP TS-464 If
- You manage a multi-user home office or small team that benefits from dual 2.5GbE network aggregation.
- You want high-speed solid-state caching using dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots without sacrificing drive bays.
- You run memory-intensive workloads that require 8GB of base DDR4 memory with expansion support up to 16 GB.
- You regularly offload files to external storage using high-speed 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports.
Choose the Terramaster F4-425 If
- You need an ultra-quiet 21dB(A) storage server that can sit directly in a bedroom or quiet living space.
- You want a painless initial setup completed entirely via smartphone using the TNAS Mobile app without needing a PC.
- You plan to use mismatched drive sizes and want TRAID/TRAID+ to maximize usable capacity up to 120TB.
- You stream video to multiple family screens using native 4K H.265 decoding on Plex, Emby, Jellyfin, or DLNA.
Final Verdict
The choice between these two four-bay servers hinges entirely on whether your storage goals center on raw data throughput or appliance-grade home entertainment. The TS-464 is the superior workhorse for tech enthusiasts, creative teams, and multi-client homes. With dual 2.5GbE network ports, dedicated M.2 NVMe SSD cache slots, 8GB of DDR4 memory expandable to 16 GB, and 10Gb/s USB connectivity, it delivers the physical infrastructure required to handle continuous, high-bandwidth data transfers without slowing down. For an even wider look at multi-bay performance options, browse our qnap ts-464 vs ugreen dxp4800 plus overview.
On the other hand, the F4-425 is the better companion for home entertainment, casual media curation, and effortless data protection. Operating at a hushed 21dB(A), it integrates tool-free Push-Lock drive trays, mobile-first PC-free onboarding, and flexible TRAID storage efficiency supporting up to 120TB. For users asking is Terramaster F4-425 worth it for quiet living-room streaming and family photo libraries, its purpose-built simplicity and low-noise footprint make it an exceptionally compelling four-bay media hub.
FAQ
Can I upgrade the RAM on the QNAP TS-464?
Yes. The TS-464 comes equipped with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and supports memory expansion up to a maximum of 16 GB DDR4. This upgrade headroom allows the system to manage demanding background services and multi-user environments with sustained responsiveness.
Does the Terramaster F4-425 support M.2 NVMe SSD caching?
The product listing for the F4-425 does not specify any internal M.2 NVMe SSD slots. If you require dedicated solid-state cache acceleration or high-speed NVMe flash storage pools, the TS-464 provides two dedicated M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 slots built directly into the motherboard.
How quiet is the Terramaster F4-425 during everyday use?
The F4-425 operates at a tested acoustic level of 21dB(A). This ultra-low noise level makes it exceptionally well suited for quiet environments such as bedrooms, living areas, or desktop workstations where louder fan profiles would cause distraction.
What is the maximum storage capacity supported by the Terramaster F4-425?
According to the manufacturer specifications, the F4-425 supports up to 120TB of total storage across its four drive bays, accommodating individual hard drives up to 30TB each. It also supports flexible TRAID and TRAID+ configurations to maximize usable capacity.
Can the Terramaster F4-425 be set up without a computer?
Yes. The F4-425 supports full system initialization directly through the TNAS Mobile application on Android or iOS. You can initialize the operating system, configure storage settings, and establish automated photo and video backups without needing a desktop PC.
What network speeds do the QNAP TS-464 Ethernet ports provide?
The TS-464 features dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports that support multi-gigabit connections as well as backward compatibility with standard 1GbE and 100M networks. These dual ports enable link aggregation to boost total network throughput and allow multi-device failover redundancy.
