📊 Synology DS118 Specifications
🔥 NAS Device Specifications
⚡ Processor: Realtek RTD1296, Quad-Core 1.4 GHz
💾 RAM: 1GB DDR4 (Non-upgradable)
💽 Storage: 1 x 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD (Up to 18TB)
🌐 Network: 1 x Gigabit Ethernet (1GbE)
🔌 USB Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1
🛠️ RAID Support: ❌ (Single Bay, No Redundancy)
📂 File System: Btrfs, EXT4
⚡ Power Consumption: 9.4W (Active), 4.2W (Hibernation)
🔊 Noise Level: ~16 dB (Ultra-Quiet)
🎥 Surveillance Support: ✅ Supports IP Cameras with No Monthly Fees
📡 Internet Speed & Connection Stability
The Synology DS118 comes with a Gigabit Ethernet port, ensuring high-speed data transfer over your home network. While 1GbE is sufficient for home users, it may not be ideal for large businesses requiring multi-gigabit speeds.
🛜 Real-Life Internet Speed Examples:
- Local Network: Transfers at ~110MB/s via a wired connection.
- Remote Access: Speed depends on your internet upload speed (e.g., 100 Mbps upload = ~12MB/s remote access speed).
- Media Streaming: Streams 1080p & 4K videos smoothly over LAN but may require transcoding for remote 4K playback.
⚡ Caching & Performance Boost
The DS118 supports write caching, meaning frequently accessed data is stored temporarily for faster performance. This reduces load times and improves overall responsiveness, especially when handling large files or media streaming.
🔥 Benefits of Caching:
✔ Faster file access
✔ Reduced latency
✔ Smooth streaming experience
✔ Quicker backups and syncs
📷 Smart Camera Integration & AI Surveillance
You can connect security cameras to the DS118 and use it as a surveillance system with Synology Surveillance Station.
🎥 How It Works:
- Store footage without cloud fees.
- Set recording limits (e.g., keep footage for 30 days and auto-delete old files).
- Use AI motion detection to record only when movement is detected.
- Access recordings remotely from your phone.
🚨 Example: Your camera records 24/7, but one specific camera only records when motion is detected, saving storage space and improving efficiency.
🖼️ Alternative to Google Drive & Google Photos
Synology’s apps, such as Synology Photos & Drive, allow you to replace Google Drive & Google Photos with your own private storage.
📂 How It Works:
- Install Synology Apps (Drive, Photos, etc.).
- Enable Auto-Upload: Any photo taken on your phone is instantly backed up.
- Access Files Anywhere via Synology QuickConnect.
- Military-Grade Security: Your data is encrypted and password-protected.
🔒 Just like Google Drive but 100% private!
🎬 Personal Netflix with Plex & Emby
Why pay for Netflix when you can host your own movie library?
📺 How to Set Up a Personal Netflix:
- Install Plex or Emby on the NAS.
- Create an account & install the app on your phone or smart TV.
- Add Movies & Shows to your NAS.
- Stream Anytime, Anywhere!
✅ Same experience as Netflix—No subscriptions needed!
🌐 Can You Host a Website on Synology DS118?
Yes, you can host a website on the DS118 using Synology’s Web Station. However, it’s not recommended for large websites due to security risks.
❌ Why You Should Avoid Hosting Large Sites:
- No dedicated security team like professional hosting services.
- Vulnerable to hacking if not configured properly.
- Better suited for personal or small-scale sites.
⚖️ Synology DS118 vs. Competitor NAS Devices
🖥️ CPU
- Synology DS118: Realtek RTD1296
- Synology DS220+: Intel Celeron J4025
- QNAP TS-230: Realtek RTD1296
🧠 RAM
- Synology DS118: 1GB DDR4
- Synology DS220+: 2GB DDR4 (Upgradeable)
- QNAP TS-230: 2GB DDR4 (Non-upgradable)
💽 Drive Bays
- Synology DS118: 1-Bay
- Synology DS220+: 2-Bay
- QNAP TS-230: 2-Bay
🔧 RAID Support
- Synology DS118: ❌ No RAID
- Synology DS220+: ✅ RAID 0/1
- QNAP TS-230: ✅ RAID 0/1
🎥 Plex Support
- Synology DS118: ✅ (Limited Transcoding)
- Synology DS220+: ✅ (Better Performance)
- QNAP TS-230: ✅ (Limited Transcoding)
📹 Surveillance Support
- Synology DS118: ✅
- Synology DS220+: ✅
- QNAP TS-230: ✅
🏆 Verdict:
- Buy the DS118 if you want an affordable & easy-to-use personal cloud.
- Choose DS220+ for RAID & better performance.
- Go with QNAP TS-230 for a budget-friendly 2-bay NAS.
💡 Should You Buy the Synology DS118?
✅ Buy It If:
✔️ You want a simple, personal cloud storage solution.
✔️ You need a private alternative to Google Drive & Google Photos.
✔️ You love streaming movies and want your own Netflix alternative.
✔️ You want a surveillance system without cloud fees.
❌ Skip It If:
❌ You need RAID redundancy (Get the Synology DS220+) 🏆.
❌ You want to stream 4K movies to multiple users (Consider a higher-end NAS).
🔮 Is the Synology DS118 Worth It?
The Synology DS118 is a fantastic entry-level NAS for home users who want a private cloud, media center, and security hub all in one device. If you need a simple, secure, and efficient NAS without breaking the bank, the DS118 is one of the best choices on the market. 🚀
💬 Do You Have a Different Opinion?
Let us know in the comments below! ⬇️
