Looking for a central place to store files, stream media, or run a home server? Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices are the solution. LincPlus has launched a campaign to fund two new models, the LincStation N2 and S1. Deciding between them depends on your needs. Here are the core differences to help you choose.
SSD Speed vs HDD Capacity: The Storage Philosophy
The storage philosophy hinges on speed of SSD versus capacity of HDD.
LincStation N2: Speed Prioritized
The LincStation N2 is designed for speed. It favors solid-state drives. Its features include:
- Four M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs - ideal for rapid access.
- Two 2.5-inch bays for smaller HDDs or SSDs for added capacity.
If speed is paramount and you handle small, frequently accessed files, the N2 is suited for you.
LincStation S1: Capacity Maximized
The LincStation S1 is designed for maximum storage space using traditional hard drives.
- Four bays supporting 3.5-inch hard drives - excellent for large data volumes.
- Two 2.5-inch SATA bays, offering a balance between speed and capacity.
For archiving extensive data, especially large media files, the S1 is the preferred choice.
Size, Design, and Features Compared
Beyond storage, here is a comparison of each LincStation's features:
| Feature | LincStation S1 | LincStation N2 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel N97 (Higher Performance) | Intel N100 (Higher Energy Efficiency) |
| RAM | 8GB DDR5 (User Upgradable) | 16GB LPDDR5 (Non Upgradable) |
| Fast SSD Storage | 2 x M.2 NVMe | 4 x M.2 NVMe (Higher SSD Focus) |
| Large HDD/SSD Storage | 4 x 3.5" / 2.5" Bays (HDD Focus) | 2 x 2.5" Bays (Smaller HDDs / SSDs) |
| Network Speed | 2 x 2.5 GbE Ethernet | 1 x 10 GbE Ethernet (Higher Single Connection Speed) |
| Display | 1.77” Touchscreen (On device info) | None |
| Size & Weight | Bulkier, 2.9 kg | Portable, 800 grams |
| Starting Price (Super Early Bird) | $429 | $309 (More affordable entry) |
Networking and Performance Considerations
Both models share dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports. The N2 offers a faster 10 Gigabit Ethernet port, beneficial for high-bandwidth single connections, link aggregation, or segmentation.
The S1 features a slightly more powerful Intel N97 processor, while the N2 uses the more power-efficient N100. Both are suitable for NAS tasks, with the S1 providing a slight advantage for demanding operations.
Which LincStation Suits Your Needs?
The optimal choice depends on your requirements:
Choose LincStation N2 if:
- You prioritize speed and responsiveness.
- You primarily use SSDs.
- You need a compact and portable NAS.
- You prefer a lower entry cost.
Choose LincStation S1 if:
- You require substantial storage space with traditional hard drives.
- You desire a multifunctional system with expandable RAM and a display.
- You need multiple network connections.
Both LincStations come pre-loaded with Unraid OS for quick setup of your personal cloud. Consider your NAS usage and storage needs to select the right LincStation for your digital life.
