Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices have definitely evolved over the past few years. Yes they are there to give you a reliable data backup for your files, with easy access to these files over the network, or even over the internet. But many consumers are looking for a device to store, and more importantly be able to stream media to all of the different devices in their home. Synology’s DiskStation DS418play allows you to not only stream HD video content to these devices, but 4K content as well. It does all of the heavy lifting, transcoding this content so even the smallest, under-powered devices can be streamed to. Being a Synology NAS the DiskStation DS418play is also loaded with Synology’s DSM which gives you access to all types of tools for home and small business use. Let’s get some drives in the DS418play and see what it can do!
Special thanks to Synology for providing us with the DiskStation DS418play NAS to review.
Packaging
The DiskStation DS418play comes in Synology’s typical retail packaging, which is definitely more subtle than other brands. We have a cardboard box with a sticker on it letting us know that it is indeed the DiskStation DS418play. Also on the front it does list some of the main features.
Flipping over to the back there is a run-down of the front and back of the unit going over the different buttons and connections. Also listed is the actual hardware specs of the drive, which we will get into in a little bit.
Opening the box up and getting everything out we have the DiskStation DS418play unit, power brick and power cable, two Ethernet cables, mounting screws, keys, and a quick installation guide.
