Choosing the right rackmount storage server for a small business depends on your specific needs—whether you prioritize raw power, ease of management, or compact design. The Dell PowerEdge R710 stands out for demanding workloads with high performance, though it’s a renewed product with limited warranty. The Synology RS1221+ offers a balance of speed and data protection, ideal for those needing high availability but willing to handle setup complexity. Meanwhile, the QNAP TS-435XeU provides a compact, versatile option with advanced networking and caching features, suited for businesses with limited space and multimedia needs. Each picks addresses different priorities, with tradeoffs including cost, complexity, and expandability.
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Key Takeaways
- The Dell PowerEdge R710 delivers high raw performance and extensive storage, but is best suited for technically experienced users comfortable with renewal risks.
- Synology RS1221+ excels in speed and reliability, making it ideal for mission-critical data, yet requires additional investment for storage drives.
- QNAP TS-435XeU offers a compact form factor with advanced networking, perfect for space-constrained environments that need multimedia support.
- Refurbished options like the HP ProLiant DL360 G7 provide robust power at a lower cost but lack the new hardware warranty and may require more setup.
- All options vary in ease of use, expandability, and targeted workload, making it vital to match a product’s strengths with your specific business needs.
| Dell PowerEdge R710 NAS Server with Dual Intel Xeon X5650, 32GB RAM, 12TB Storage, Rail Kit, iDRAC6, Renewed |  | Best Overall Performance for Demanding Workloads | Processor: Dual Intel Xeon X5650 6-Core 2.66GHz | Memory: 32GB DDR3 | Storage: 12TB (6 x 2TB SATA HDDs) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1221+ (Diskless) |  | Best for Speed and Data Protection in a Compact Form | Brand: Synology | Model Number: RS1221+ | Number of Bays: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-435XeU-4G-US 4-Bay Short Depth Rackmount NAS |  | Best Compact, Versatile NAS with Advanced Networking | Processor: Marvell OCTEON TX2 CN9130 / CN9131 ARMv8 Cortex-A72 | RAM: 4GB DDR4, upgradable to 32GB | Network Ports: Dual 2.5GbE, Dual 10GbE | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP ProLiant DL360 G7 1U Rackmount Server with Dual Xeon X5677, 72GB RAM, 4x900GB SAS HDD, RAID, GigaBit NICs, No OS (Renewed) |  | Best for Power-Intensive Business Applications | Processor: 2×Quad-Core Intel Xeon X5677 3.46GHz | Memory: 72GB DDR3 RAM | Hard Drives: 4×900GB SAS HDD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-864eU-8G-US 8-Bay Short Depth Rackmount NAS with Dual 2.5GbE, Intel Celeron, 8GB DDR4, Diskless |  | Best for Space-Constrained, Multimedia, and Basic Storage Needs | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095, 4 cores/4 threads | Memory: 8GB DDR4, upgradable to 16GB | Network Connectivity: Dual 2.5GbE ports | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| rackmount storage server for small business | Processor | Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Dell PowerEdge R710 NAS Server | Dual Intel Xeon X5650 6-Core 2.66GHz | 32GB DDR3 |
| Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1 | — | — |
| QNAP TS-435XeU-4G-US 4-Bay Sho | Marvell OCTEON TX2 CN9130 / CN9131 ARMv8 Cortex-A72 | — |
| HP ProLiant DL360 G7 1U Rackmo | 2×Quad-Core Intel Xeon X5677 3.46GHz | 72GB DDR3 RAM |
| QNAP TS-864eU-8G-US 8-Bay Shor | Intel Celeron N5105/N5095, 4 cores/4 threads | 8GB DDR4, upgradable to 16GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Dell PowerEdge R710 NAS Server with Dual Intel Xeon X5650, 32GB RAM, 12TB Storage, Rail Kit, iDRAC6, Renewed
The Dell PowerEdge R710 is a high-powered server with dual Xeon processors, making it suitable for small businesses that run intensive applications or virtualization. Its 12TB storage capacity, RAID support, and remote management via iDRAC6 provide a solid foundation for enterprise-grade data handling. Compared to other options, it excels in raw processing power and expandability, but being a renewed product, it might carry some warranty limitations and lacks SSD storage, which could impact performance for certain workloads. Its setup complexity makes it better suited for users with technical expertise.
Pros:- High-performance dual Xeon processors
- Large 12TB storage with RAID
- Remote management via iDRAC6
- Includes rail kit for installation
Cons:- Renewed product with limited warranty
- No SSD included
- Requires technical setup
Best for: Small businesses needing high-performance, scalable storage with demanding workloads
Not ideal for: Less technical users or those seeking plug-and-play simplicity
- Processor:Dual Intel Xeon X5650 6-Core 2.66GHz
- Memory:32GB DDR3
- Storage:12TB (6 x 2TB SATA HDDs)
- RAID Controller:PERC H700 6Gb/s with 512MB
- Network:Onboard Quad Intel GbE NICs
- Power:Redundant Power Supplies
Our verdict“A top choice for technically proficient small businesses demanding powerful, scalable storage, despite its renewal status.”
Synology 8 Bay RackStation RS1221+ (Diskless)
The Synology RS1221+ offers outstanding data transfer speeds and high availability features, making it ideal for businesses that prioritize uptime and data integrity. Its 8-bay design provides ample capacity, but the storage drives are not included, adding to initial costs. With a robust performance of over 2,300 MB/s read speed and clustering support, it’s perfect for heavy workloads. Yet, its setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with NAS systems, and its expandability is limited to adding drives rather than internal upgrades. This makes it well-suited for businesses that need reliable, high-speed storage with straightforward network access.
Pros:- High data transfer speeds
- Supports high availability clustering
- Compact 2U design for limited space
- Robust data protection features
Cons:- Additional purchase needed for drives
- Complex initial setup
Best for: Small businesses requiring high availability, speed, and data redundancy
Not ideal for: Users seeking simple plug-and-play solutions or those with limited technical experience
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:RS1221+
- Number of Bays:8
- Performance:Up to 2,315 MB/s read, 1,147 MB/s write
- Depth:298 mm
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“An excellent choice for demanding workloads and uptime-critical applications, with some setup complexity.</p>”
QNAP TS-435XeU-4G-US 4-Bay Short Depth Rackmount NAS
The QNAP TS-435XeU stands out for its small footprint and versatile features, including dual 2.5GbE and 10GbE ports, making it suitable for media-heavy or network-intensive environments. Its quad-core ARM processor and support for up to 32GB RAM provide decent performance, especially with SSD caching options. While its 4-bay capacity may limit storage for larger needs, this model is well-suited for space-constrained businesses that want a flexible, high-speed NAS with multimedia capabilities. Setup can be challenging for beginners, but its advanced networking features compensate for its smaller storage capacity.
Pros:- Compact design fits limited rack space
- Dual 10GbE ports for fast data transfer
- Supports SSD caching
- 4K media transcoding
Cons:- Limited to 4 drive bays
- Non-expandable RAM (8GB fixed)
- More complex setup
Best for: Small businesses needing a compact, high-performance NAS with advanced networking
Not ideal for: Businesses with large storage needs or limited technical support
- Processor:Marvell OCTEON TX2 CN9130 / CN9131 ARMv8 Cortex-A72
- RAM:4GB DDR4, upgradable to 32GB
- Network Ports:Dual 2.5GbE, Dual 10GbE
- Storage Bays:4
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe Gen 3 x1 NVMe
- Form Factor:Rackmount
Our verdict“A smart choice for multimedia-rich environments requiring speed and space efficiency, with some upgrade limitations.</p>”
HP ProLiant DL360 G7 1U Rackmount Server with Dual Xeon X5677, 72GB RAM, 4x900GB SAS HDD, RAID, GigaBit NICs, No OS (Renewed)
The HP ProLiant DL360 G7 is tailored for small businesses that need a high-capacity, power-ready server. Its dual Xeon X5677 CPUs and 72GB RAM provide significant processing and multitasking capacity, suitable for hosting virtual machines, databases, or enterprise-grade applications. The 4x900GB SAS drives with RAID support offer reliable, expandable storage, but being a renewed unit, it may carry some warranty and hardware condition uncertainties. Its 1U form factor makes it ideal for tight spaces, but setup and maintenance are more complex for non-technical users.
Pros:- High processing power with dual Xeon CPUs
- Large 72GB RAM capacity
- Hot-swappable SAS drives with RAID
- Multiple GigaBit NICs
Cons:- Refurbished condition
- No included OS
- Requires technical expertise for setup
Best for: Power users and small businesses with demanding server workloads
Not ideal for: Those seeking a plug-and-play or budget-friendly solution
- Processor:2×Quad-Core Intel Xeon X5677 3.46GHz
- Memory:72GB DDR3 RAM
- Hard Drives:4×900GB SAS HDD
- RAID:HP Smart Array P410i-512MB FBWC
- Network:4×GigaBit NIC
- Form Factor:1U Rackmount
Our verdict“A compelling option for power-heavy applications, provided the user can handle its complexity and refurbishment factors.”
QNAP TS-864eU-8G-US 8-Bay Short Depth Rackmount NAS with Dual 2.5GbE, Intel Celeron, 8GB DDR4, Diskless
The QNAP TS-864eU combines a compact 8-bay rackmount design with strong networking features, including dual 2.5GbE ports, making it suitable for small businesses that need reliable, fast network storage in tight spaces. Its Intel Celeron processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM (upgradable to 16GB) support multimedia tasks and backup functions effectively. While its non-expandable RAM limits future upgrades, its support for SSD caching and multimedia transcoding makes it a versatile choice for media-heavy small offices or remote work environments. Its limited storage capacity is a tradeoff for its small form factor and affordability.
Pros:- Compact, space-efficient design
- Dual 2.5GbE ports for fast networking
- Supports SSD caching
- 4K media transcoding
Cons:- Limited to 8 bays
- Fixed 8GB RAM, non-upgradable
- Setup can be complex for non-experts
Best for: Small offices prioritizing space, media, and fast network access
Not ideal for: Large storage requirements or users needing extensive internal expandability
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105/N5095, 4 cores/4 threads
- Memory:8GB DDR4, upgradable to 16GB
- Network Connectivity:Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Storage Slots:8
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe Gen 3 x1 NVMe
- Media Support:4K transcoding
Our verdict“Ideal for multimedia and fast network environments where space is at a premium, with limited internal expansion.”
How We Picked
Our choices are based on a combination of performance specifications, build quality, expandability, and suitability for small business environments. We prioritized products that balance cost-effectiveness with features that support data storage, management, and resilience. Each product was evaluated for its role—whether as a high-performance server, a reliable NAS, or a compact solution—while considering tradeoffs such as ease of setup, warranty, and upgrade options. We aimed to highlight options that cater to different small business priorities, from budget-conscious setups to high-demand enterprise features.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Rackmount Storage Server For Small Business
When selecting a rackmount storage server for your small business, several factors come into play. Consider your storage capacity needs, the level of performance required, and how much space you have available. Ease of management, expandability, and future-proofing are also important, especially if your business is growing or has specific workload demands. Balancing these elements ensures you pick a solution that fits your current needs while allowing room for future growth.
Performance and Processing Power
If your business runs data-intensive applications, virtual machines, or needs quick data access, focus on servers with powerful processors, such as dual Xeon configurations. These deliver the raw power necessary for demanding workloads but come with higher complexity and cost. For lighter tasks or media applications, less powerful CPUs like Intel Celeron or ARM processors may suffice, offering energy efficiency and easier management.
Storage Capacity and Expandability
Assess your current storage needs and consider future growth. Models with more bays, like 8 or 12, provide ample room for expansion, but may be larger or more expensive. Some servers require you to purchase drives separately, adding initial costs. Think about RAID support for redundancy and data safety, especially if your business relies heavily on stored data.
Ease of Management and Setup
Intuitive management interfaces and remote access features simplify ongoing maintenance. Devices like the Synology RS1221+ and QNAP TS-435XeU offer robust management tools, but may have a steeper learning curve. Pre-configured or plug-and-play options tend to be more accessible for small teams without dedicated IT staff.
Size and Space Constraints
Limited rack space demands compact solutions. Short depth models like the QNAP TS-435XeU or TS-864eU maximize space efficiency, ideal for small offices or setups where rack real estate is at a premium. Larger, more powerful servers like the Dell PowerEdge R710 or HP DL360 G7 require more space and technical expertise to install and maintain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between NAS and server solutions?
NAS devices are designed primarily for storage and file sharing, offering simplified management and often requiring less technical knowledge. Servers, on the other hand, provide more processing power, expandability, and are capable of handling a broader range of workloads, including hosting applications or virtual machines. For small businesses with simple storage needs, NAS may be sufficient, but for more complex or demanding environments, a dedicated server like the Dell PowerEdge or HP ProLiant offers greater flexibility and performance.
How important is expandability in a rackmount storage server?
Expandability is vital if you anticipate your storage needs growing over time. Servers with more bays or support for additional drives and RAID configurations allow you to scale without replacing the entire system. This flexibility can save costs and reduce downtime, especially in a small business environment where data growth is expected. However, more expandable systems tend to be larger and more complex to manage.
Should I consider a refurbished or renewed server?
Refurbished servers like the HP ProLiant DL360 G7 can offer significant cost savings while still delivering powerful hardware. However, these often come with some level of warranty uncertainty and may require more maintenance or technical knowledge. If you choose a renewed option, ensure it comes from a reputable source and understand the warranty conditions to mitigate potential risks.
What role does network connectivity play in choosing a rackmount server?
Network speed and ports are critical for ensuring fast data transfer, especially if multiple users access the server simultaneously. Models with 10GbE or dual 2.5GbE ports support higher throughput, reducing bottlenecks. Consider your current network infrastructure—if you already have or plan to upgrade to faster networking, select a server with compatible ports to maximize performance.
Is a rackmount server suitable for small business use?
Yes, rackmount servers can be ideal for small businesses that need reliable, scalable, and centralized storage. They can handle various workloads, from file sharing and backups to hosting applications. However, they often require more technical knowledge to set up and maintain than simple NAS solutions. For tech-savvy teams or those with dedicated IT support, rackmount servers provide a long-term, flexible infrastructure option.
Conclusion
For small businesses with high-performance needs and technical expertise, the Dell PowerEdge R710 or HP ProLiant DL360 G7 stand out as powerful options. Those seeking a balance of speed, data protection, and ease of management might prefer the Synology RS1221+. If space constraints and multimedia features are priorities, the QNAP TS-435XeU or TS-864eU offer compact versatility. Budget-conscious buyers or those new to server management should consider NAS alternatives or refurbished units, weighing potential tradeoffs in expandability and warranty.
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