Synology DS224+ or Asustor AS5304T: which NAS is the smarter buy?

Display

Neither product has a display in the usual sense, so there is no screen quality advantage to compare. If you mean the management interface, Synology’s DSM is generally the more polished and beginner-friendly experience, with cleaner navigation and better consistency across apps. Asustor’s ADM is capable and flexible, but it tends to feel a little less refined. Winner: Product A, because the software interface is usually easier to live with day to day.

Performance

On paper, the Asustor AS5304T has the stronger hardware profile for throughput and multitasking. It comes with a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU, 4GB DDR4 RAM, and two 2.5GbE ports, which is a major advantage if you have a fast switch, multiple users, or want to push large file transfers beyond standard gigabit speeds. The Synology DS224+ is a 2-bay unit, so it is inherently more limited in raw expansion, but Synology’s Plus-series models are well known for stable performance and excellent software optimisation. For a small household, the DS224+ will feel very smooth; for heavier file serving and network upgrades, the AS5304T wins. Winner: Product B, because 2.5GbE and 4 bays give it more headroom.

Build quality and design

Synology has the edge here. The DS224+ is a compact, understated black chassis with a metal construction that feels more premium and is easier to place in a living room, office, or cabinet without drawing attention. It is also a simpler 2-bay design, which usually means less noise, less power draw, and fewer points of failure. The Asustor AS5304T is still a solid desktop NAS, but its gaming-oriented branding and larger 4-bay footprint make it a more utilitarian box. Winner: Product A, for better fit-and-finish and a more mature design.

Battery life

Neither NAS has a battery, so this category does not apply in the same way it would for a laptop or handheld device. If you are really asking about power efficiency and UPS-friendly operation, the Synology DS224+ is likely the better choice because a 2-bay system generally consumes less power than a 4-bay unit, especially once all drive bays are populated. The Asustor’s extra bays and faster networking can increase power usage, though that is the trade-off for more capacity and speed. Winner: Product A, on likely lower power consumption and simpler backup/UPS integration.

Price and value for money

This is where the Asustor AS5304T makes its strongest case. At £435.04, it is £271.99 cheaper than the Synology DS224+ at £707.03, yet it offers twice the drive bays and dual 2.5GbE ports. For buyers who want maximum storage growth per pound, the Asustor is clearly better value. The Synology’s higher price is harder to justify if you are comparing only hardware specifications. Winner: Product B, by a wide margin on upfront value.

Game library/features

NAS units do not have a game library, so that comparison does not apply literally. If you are using “features” to mean apps, media tools, backups, and ecosystem support, Synology wins on software maturity. DSM is widely regarded as one of the best NAS operating systems for backups, photo management, remote access, and straightforward administration. Asustor offers plenty of features too, but it is more of a hardware-first choice than a software-first one. Winner: Product A, because its app ecosystem and user experience are stronger.

Overall user experience

For most people, the Synology DS224+ is the easier NAS to recommend if they want a low-stress setup, excellent software, and a compact 2-bay system that just works. It is especially appealing for users who care about backup workflows, family photo libraries, and a cleaner interface. The Asustor AS5304T is the better pick for enthusiasts who want more bays, faster networking, and better value, and who are comfortable trading some polish for flexibility. If you expect your storage needs to grow or want to take advantage of 2.5GbE, the Asustor is the more future-proof machine. Overall summary: Synology wins for software quality, simplicity, and premium build; Asustor wins for hardware, expansion, and value. If you want the safest premium choice, buy the Synology DS224+. If you want the smarter hardware buy, the Asustor AS5304T is the better deal.