If you're shopping for network-attached storage on a budget, the hardest part isn't finding a drive-it's choosing among used NAS units that all look similar in photos. You want something that fits your data needs, your network speed, and your wallet, without paying for bays you'll never fill or missing the features you actually need.
Quick Take
- The D-Link DNR-326 is a simple desktop NAS for basic file sharing.
- The NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 is the most feature-rich option here.
- The large enclosure is the pick when capacity matters most.
- The Seagate BlackArmor 400 is the entry-level network storage choice.
Price Comparison
| Model | Listed Price | Price Bar | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-Link DNR-326 | $50.00 | Ethernet, desktop unit | |
| NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 | $71.00 | 2 bays, Gigabit Ethernet, hot-swap | |
| 5-Bay NAS Enclosure | $170.00 | 5 bays, drive trays | |
| Seagate BlackArmor 400 | $39.00 | External drive type |
Decision Matrix
| Your Priority | Recommended Pick |
|---|---|
| Basic file sharing at a low cost | D-Link DNR-326 |
| Small office storage with drive flexibility | NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 |
| Maximum storage capacity | 5-Bay NAS Enclosure |
| Tightest budget for network storage | Seagate BlackArmor 400 |
What to Think About Before You Buy
Before you settle, think about how much storage you actually need. A modest single-drive setup might be enough for everyday backups, while a larger enclosure gives you room to expand later. Network speed matters too: a faster connection helps when moving large files between computers. And since all four units are used, check the condition notes and be prepared for normal wear. The trade-offs are usually clear: more capacity and more features cost more, while lower prices often mean a simpler device.
Product Notes
D-Link Network Attached Storage NAS Desktop Unit, Ethernet, Black #DNR-326
The D-Link DNR-326 is a compact desktop NAS that connects through a standard Ethernet port, making it a straightforward addition to a home or office network. The unit is used and sold as is, and it requires a 12V adapter, so you'll have to supply that yourself. What this NAS gives you is simplicity: a black desktop box with an Ethernet interface for file storage and backup. The trade-off is speed: the standard Ethernet interface is enough for everyday files, but large transfers may feel slower. If you just want a dependable NAS for everyday documents and media, this is a sensible choice.
NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 RN202 2-Bay Network Attached Storage NAS RN20200-100NES
The NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 is the most feature-packed option in this group. It has two hot-swappable drive bays, two Gigabit ports, and USB 3.0 for external storage or backup. The item specifics include 2GB of RAM and a 1.4GHz dual-core processor, which makes it a strong candidate for a small office that needs shared storage without a lot of fuss. The limitation is capacity: with only two bays, you can hold two drives, so if your data outgrows that, you'll need to move up to the 5-Bay enclosure. It's described as a good working pull, so you know it was removed from an active setup. But if you want the fastest network connection and the flexibility to swap drives without powering down, this is the one to pick.
5-Bay Black Network Attached Storage NAS Enclosure w/ Drive Trays
This enclosure is all about storage volume. It gives you five drive bays with drive trays, so you can install multiple drives to build a shared pool for your home or small office. The description notes that the power indicator turns on and that there's no visible damage to the exterior or interior, but no additional testing has been done, so it's a used unit with some unknowns. Because it's an enclosure, you'll need to supply your own drives and set up your own NAS software. The upside is flexibility: you can choose exactly how much storage you need and add drives over time. The downside is that you're assembling the system yourself, and the enclosure alone costs more than the other used NAS units here.
Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, Seagate BlackArmor NAS 400 series
The Seagate BlackArmor NAS 400 is the most budget-friendly way to get into network storage on this list. It's a used NAS that's described as an external drive type, so it's best for someone who wants a simple storage appliance without managing multiple drives. The unit is a Seagate product, and the series name gives you a sense of its intended use, but the available information focuses on the device itself and its used condition. That means you should treat it as a basic option for backing up a few computers or sharing files on a small network. If your needs grow and you want faster network transfers or drive-swapping flexibility, the NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 is a better-equipped alternative.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
For most buyers, the NETGEAR ReadyNAS 202 is the most balanced choice because it offers a strong mix of capacity and connectivity at a reasonable price. If your main need is raw storage capacity, go with the 5-Bay NAS Enclosure and fill it with your own drives. If you just want the lowest barrier to entry, the Seagate BlackArmor 400 gets you on the network for less, while the D-Link DNR-326 is a sensible middle ground for basic file sharing.
