Choosing between the Synology DS1522+ and the QNAP TS-464 comes down to whether your workflow prioritizes massive multi-drive scalability and business data management or out-of-the-box multi-gigabit networking speed paired with quad-core multimedia hardware. The DS1522+ is built around a five-bay chassis that can expand to fifteen bays as storage demands scale, whereas the TS-464 emphasizes rapid baseline network throughput with dual native 2.5GbE connections, integrated Intel processing, and dedicated NVMe slots.
Choose the DS1522+ if you manage a business environment that requires centralized backup software, virtualization support, and significant drive volume expansion. Choose the TS-464 if your priority is immediate high-speed local transfers, integrated hardware encryption, and direct multimedia handling without buying optional add-in network adapters.
Synology DS1522+ vs QNAP TS-464 at a Glance
| Feature | Synology DS1522+ | QNAP TS-464 |
|---|---|---|
| Native Drive Bays | 5 bays (3.5-inch / 2.5-inch) | 4 bays (3.5-inch SATA 6 Gb/s) |
| Maximum Drive Expansion | Up to 15 bays (via two DX517 units) | External USB enclosure support |
| Network Ports | 4 x 1GbE RJ-45 | 2 x 2.5GbE RJ-45 (2.5G/1G/100M) |
| High-Speed Network Upgrade | Optional 10GbE connectivity module | Not listed |
| Processor | Not listed | Intel Celeron N5105 / N5095 quad-core (up to 2.9 GHz) |
| System Memory | Not listed | 8GB DDR4 (expandable up to 16GB) |
| M.2 NVMe SSD Slots | Not listed | Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots |
| USB Connectivity | Not listed | Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (up to 10Gb/s) |
| Sequential Throughput | Up to 736 MB/s read / 796 MB/s write | 2.5 Gbps network transfer rate |
| Hardware Encryption | Not listed | Intel AES-NI encryption engine |
| Warranty | 3-year warranty | Not listed |
| Best For | Scalable office storage and virtualization | Fast local networking and multimedia storage |
Drive Capacity and Expansion Potential
Drive bay count determines baseline storage potential, RAID configuration flexibility, and long-term upgrade paths. The Synology DS1522+ arrives with five native hot-swappable drive bays, providing immediate capacity advantages over standard four-bay desktop network enclosures. This five-bay configuration allows users to deploy high-parity storage arrays like RAID 6 without restricting usable volume space to only two operational drives. For organizations comparing capacity pathways across models such as the synology ds923+ vs ds1522+, that extra internal drive bay provides substantial headroom before external units become necessary.
Expansion capabilities create the widest gap between these two models. The DS1522+ supports up to ten additional drive bays by connecting two separate DX517 expansion units. This allows the system to scale from five drives to a total of 15 storage drives within a unified management environment. The synology ds1522+ vs qnap ts-233 comparison highlights how Synology constructs its Plus series specifically around this modular growth path. In contrast, the QNAP TS-464 features four internal SATA 6 Gb/s drive bays supporting 3.5-inch 7200 rpm disks. While the listing notes that the TS-464 works with faster USB expansion enclosures via its 10Gb/s ports, it lacks dedicated multi-bay eSATA expansion modules designed to scale native drive pools to 15 drives.
For storage administrators anticipating steady data accumulation, the DS1522+ prevents early replacement cycles. Having five native bays means higher raw capacity from the initial setup, and official multi-chassis expansion ensures continuous operation as backups, surveillance archives, and file volumes accumulate over years of use.
Edge: Synology DS1522+ provides five native drive bays and scales up to 15 drives using dual DX517 expansion units.
Network Interfaces and Throughput Performance
Network port configurations dictate how quickly client machines send and retrieve data across local infrastructure. The QNAP TS-464 comes standard with dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports supporting 2.5G, 1G, and 100M connections. This out-of-the-box multi-gigabit design eliminates the common 125 MB/s bottleneck of legacy gigabit networking, allowing compatible workstations, Wi-Fi 6 access points, and multi-gigabit switches to transfer large video files and system images at significantly accelerated speeds. The dual ports also facilitate link aggregation and network failover across local workgroups.
The Synology DS1522+ approaches network connectivity differently by equipping four standard 1GbE ports alongside an optional 10GbE connectivity slot. Four discrete gigabit interfaces allow extensive link aggregation, balance network traffic across separate subnets, and preserve dedicated bandwidth for virtualization or surveillance pipelines. The DS1522+ documentation specifies sequential read throughput up to 736 MB/s and sequential write throughput up to 796 MB/s. Reaching those transfer speeds across the network requires deploying the proprietary 10GbE network upgrade module, as four bonded 1GbE ports cannot deliver that bandwidth to a single client computer without complex multi-channel network configurations.
Choosing between these network layouts involves matching your existing switch infrastructure. Users evaluating the synology ds923+ vs qnap ts-464 often observe that QNAP prioritizes immediate 2.5GbE speeds without requiring extra hardware purchases. However, for offices already operating 10-gigabit backbones or planning high-bandwidth file editing, the optional 10GbE path on the DS1522+ offers a higher performance ceiling than the TS-464 can provide over Ethernet.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 delivers dual 2.5GbE networking out of the box, while the DS1522+ requires an optional upgrade card to surpass gigabit speeds.
Processing Architecture and System Memory
The central processor and memory subsystem determine how comfortably a NAS handles concurrent workloads, background indexing, encryption tasks, and containerized software. The QNAP TS-464 is powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 / N5095 processor with four cores and four threads capable of bursting up to 2.9 GHz. It includes 8GB of DDR4 memory standard, with the system board supporting expansion up to 16GB DDR4 RAM. The Intel architecture incorporates an integrated Intel AES-NI encryption engine that offloads cryptographic calculations, ensuring that encrypted volumes and secure file transfers operate without bogging down general system response.
The Synology DS1522+ product listing does not specify its processor brand, core count, clock speed, or preinstalled memory configuration. The manufacturer listing concentrates instead on functional software capabilities, including built-in virtualization, photo management, surveillance solutions, and data protection suites. In practical multi-device environments, having clearly documented hardware specifications gives administrators confidence when calculating virtual machine capacities and software container memory allocations.
Because the TS-464 provides verified hardware specifications, buyers know precisely what computational headroom exists for running internal applications. When comparing hardware execution against models like those in the synology ds423+ vs qnap ts-464 breakdown, the Intel Celeron platform on the TS-464 offers predictable multi-threaded performance and generous baseline RAM for handling multiple concurrent file management services.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 features a documented quad-core Intel processor with burst speeds up to 2.9 GHz, 8GB base memory, and hardware AES-NI encryption.
M.2 NVMe SSD Caching and Storage Tiering
Solid-state drive integration inside a NAS dramatically improves small-file input/output operations, accelerates database queries, and speeds up multi-user file browsing. The QNAP TS-464 incorporates dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe SSD slots directly onto its system board. According to the manufacturer data, these slots can be configured either as high-speed read/write cache acceleration to speed up mechanical drive volumes, or as dedicated all-flash SSD storage pools for hosting performance-sensitive applications, databases, and container workloads.
The listing for the Synology DS1522+ does not specify internal M.2 NVMe slots or onboard solid-state caching hardware. While the DS1522+ produces substantial sequential throughput rates up to 736 MB/s read and 796 MB/s write, the listing emphasizes traditional multi-drive storage arrays and high-capacity hard drives rather than dedicated internal NVMe flash integration. Small business networks managing millions of small assets often rely on dedicated SSD caching to keep metadata operations responsive when dozens of desktop clients connect simultaneously.
The flexibility of using M.2 NVMe slots for either caching or independent storage pools gives the TS-464 a clear functional advantage in mixed-drive deployments. Users can keep their four primary SATA bays populated with high-capacity mechanical drives for bulk archiving while maintaining ultra-fast NVMe storage for priority project files.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 features dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots supporting both cache acceleration and dedicated flash storage pools.
Peripheral Connectivity and External Ingestion
External port configurations determine how quickly data can be imported from direct-attached storage devices, portable backup drives, and digital cameras. The QNAP TS-464 is equipped with multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports capable of transfer speeds up to 10Gb/s. This high-bandwidth interface ensures that high-capacity external solid-state drives and portable media cards can ingest large video rushes or photo catalogs directly to the NAS without creating long transfer queues or saturating the local area network.
The Synology DS1522+ product data lists the included media as the main unit, AC power adapter, power cord, accessory pack, and two RJ-45 LAN cables, but does not detail external USB port standards, quantities, or transfer ratings. Its physical design is rated for 100-240V multi-voltage compatibility and surface mounting, but the listing remains silent on fast 10Gb/s peripheral bus connections. In creative studios where operators routinely hand off external drives containing hundreds of gigabytes of raw footage, verified 10Gb/s USB connectivity eliminates workflow bottlenecks.
Furthermore, the 10Gb/s USB interfaces on the TS-464 provide compatibility with newer, faster USB drives and external storage expansion enclosures. This allows users to add quick direct-attached storage capacity without relying on specialized proprietary interface cables or internal network expansion slots.
Edge: QNAP TS-464 provides documented USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports operating at speeds up to 10Gb/s.
Software Ecosystem and Small Business Management
Operating software transforms raw storage hardware into functional business tools and media management platforms. The Synology DS1522+ is designed to leverage built-in file and photo management, comprehensive data protection tools, virtualization support, and surveillance solutions. Synology builds these services into a cohesive environment that integrates smoothly across desktop computers, servers, Android devices, and iPhones. Backing this enterprise focus is an included 3-year manufacturer warranty, delivering long-term hardware reassurance for corporate deployments.
The QNAP TS-464 offers a versatile software environment oriented toward centralized storage and organization of personal and family photos, music collections, and video libraries. It also includes business-focused capabilities with support for desktop and laptop backups, smartphone and tablet integration, and macOS and PC platforms. Hot-swappable SATA 6 Gb/s drive bays and hardware encryption provide stable operation for workgroups, though its listing does not outline extended warranty coverage comparable to Synology’s three-year policy.
For organizations evaluating multi-user environments such as those examined in the synology ds224+ vs qnap ts-464 overview, Synology’s built-in data protection suites offer a self-contained ecosystem for multi-endpoint backups, server synchronization, and multi-camera surveillance management. The TS-464 balances this with rich multimedia capabilities and versatile client device support, making it an agile choice for home offices and creative production hubs.
Edge: Synology DS1522+ excels in business virtualization, enterprise data protection suites, and includes a 3-year warranty.
Pros and Cons
Synology DS1522+
Pros
- Five native SATA drive bays
- Scales to 15 drives with DX517
- Optional 10GbE network upgrade slot
- Up to 796 MB/s sequential write throughput
- Includes a 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Only 1GbE ports standard out of box
- Processor model not specified in listing
View Synology DS1522+ on Amazon
QNAP TS-464
Pros
- Dual native 2.5GbE Ethernet ports
- Quad-core Intel Celeron up to 2.9 GHz
- Dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe slots
- Multiple 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
- 8GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 16GB
Cons
- Limited to four internal drive bays
- Warranty duration not listed
Who Should Buy Each One
Choose the Synology DS1522+ If
- You need a scalable storage architecture that can expand from five native bays up to 15 drives via dual DX517 units.
- You manage a business network requiring integrated virtualization, multi-endpoint data protection, and surveillance applications.
- You plan to upgrade to a 10GbE network module to unlock sequential throughput speeds reaching 736 MB/s read and 796 MB/s write.
- You require the security of a verified 3-year manufacturer warranty for commercial deployment.
Choose the QNAP TS-464 If
- You want native dual 2.5GbE network connectivity immediately without purchasing optional interface upgrade cards.
- You require a documented quad-core Intel Celeron processor with 8GB DDR4 RAM and hardware AES-NI encryption.
- You intend to install high-speed M.2 NVMe SSDs for cache acceleration or independent high-performance storage pools.
- You frequently offload large media libraries using external 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A interfaces.
Final Verdict
For small businesses, growing departments, and administrators whose primary concern is long-term storage scalability, the Synology DS1522+ is the superior platform. Its five internal drive bays provide immediate RAID flexibility, and the ability to connect two DX517 expansion units means the hardware can scale up to 15 storage drives as your company expands. Supported by integrated virtualization software, robust data protection suites, optional 10GbE expansion, and an included 3-year warranty, the DS1522+ is engineered for dependable, large-scale data management.
The QNAP TS-464 wins for multimedia power users, content creators, and home office setups where rapid transfer speeds and hardware transparency matter right out of the box. By providing dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, dual M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe SSD slots, a quad-core Intel Celeron processor with 8GB RAM, and 10Gb/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity, the TS-464 delivers exceptional multi-gigabit throughput and local ingestion speed without demanding costly hardware add-ons.
FAQ
Can the Synology DS1522+ expand beyond its five native drive bays?
Yes. The Synology DS1522+ supports up to two DX517 expansion units, allowing you to add up to 10 additional drive bays for a total capacity of 15 storage drives across your system.
Does the QNAP TS-464 support 2.5GbE networking without extra accessories?
Yes. The QNAP TS-464 features dual native 2.5GbE (2.5G/1G/100M) RJ-45 ports built into the back panel, enabling multi-gigabit networking immediately over standard Cat5e or Cat6 cabling.
Can I upgrade the Synology DS1522+ to 10GbE connectivity?
Yes. While the DS1522+ includes four 1GbE ports standard, it features an expansion slot for an optional 10GbE network upgrade module to handle bandwidth-intensive operations and reach sequential throughput up to 736 MB/s read and 796 MB/s write.
Does the QNAP TS-464 include internal M.2 SSD slots?
Yes. The TS-464 includes dual onboard M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe SSD slots that can be configured as read/write cache acceleration or as independent solid-state storage pools.
What processor powers the QNAP TS-464?
The QNAP TS-464 is powered by an Intel Celeron N5105 / N5095 quad-core processor with four threads and burst frequencies up to 2.9 GHz, coupled with integrated Intel AES-NI hardware encryption.
What warranty coverage comes with the Synology DS1522+?
The Synology DS1522+ includes a 3-year manufacturer warranty covering the main unit hardware.
What type of USB ports are available on the QNAP TS-464?
The QNAP TS-464 is equipped with multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports that provide data transfer speeds up to 10Gb/s for rapid external drive file ingestion and expansion unit connectivity.
