The Asustor AS5402T Nimbustor 2 Gen2 is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device that merges aesthetics, speed, and functionality. With a broad spectrum of features ranging from a Quad-Core 10nm Intel Celeron N5105 CPU to 4GB DDR4 RAM and more, it aims to meet the needs of various users, from home users to small and medium-sized businesses. But does it deliver? Let's find out.
Design & Hardware
Out of the box, the AS5402T sports a sleek design with tool-free M.2 slots featuring cooling vents for optimal heat dissipation. It's not just an elegant piece of hardware; it's a robust machine that is engineered for performance.
One of the most impressive hardware features is its dual 2.5GbE ports with link aggregation support. This capability can break speed barriers, allowing for data transfer speeds that exceed the 2.5 Gbps threshold. Ideal for high-bandwidth applications like media streaming, large file transfers, and virtualization, these ports offer a seamless, high-speed data management experience.
The device also provides 4 M.2 NVMe SSD slots. These slots, designed for tasks that require high random IO performance, can save unbelievable amounts of time for applications like content creation. Coupled with a quad-core Celeron SoC, multitasking and data processing become swift operations.
Software and Usability
ADM 4.2, the device's operating system, boasts a new Internet Passthrough function, making network configurations simple for users. The AS5402T also allows for snapshots, enabling users to back up their data effortlessly, with up to 256 snapshots for each volume. Initial setup is straightforward, courtesy of Asustor Control Centre—a dedicated software that scans your network to locate your device. The AS5402T's compatibility with mobile apps also lets you manage your NAS on-the-go.
This NAS also addresses the needs of creative professionals. It can sync and back up local Adobe Creative Cloud folders. Its 4K UHD video decoding capabilities make it a strong contender in the home entertainment arena as well. If you're a gamer, the all-new gaming-inspired theme for ADM would be a treat.
Performance
With a 10nm quad-core Celeron SoC, the device delivers optimum performance suitable for demanding tasks. The NVMe SSD slots provide lightning-fast read and write speeds, elevating the overall user experience. Additionally, its 4K UHD video decoding capabilities provide an unrivaled digital home entertainment experience.
I used 4-2TB NVMe drives in a RAID 6 configuration and 2 10TB Deskstar drives in a RAID 1 setup. Both storage arrays were accessible via SMB and APFS. While it took a couple of days to build the array, the device's performance has been reliable. Boot-up times are between 3-5 minutes, which is reasonable.
Who Should Consider the AS5402T?
The AS5402T serves a wide user base, catering to both businesses and individual users. If you are a content creator or a home entertainment enthusiast, the device's storage and speed capabilities will not disappoint. For businesses, its robust hardware and fast network connectivity make it an effective choice for seamless collaboration and efficient data transfer.
Drawbacks
The pre-built Nextcloud installer was hard to reconfigure, but that's more of a software complaint than a hardware one. Moreover, the device's permission manager adheres to an "explicit deny wins over explicit allow" policy, so you'll need to be cautious while setting up user share permissions.
Conclusion
The Asustor AS5402T Nimbustor 2 Gen2 is a highly capable and versatile NAS device. From its robust virtualization solutions to efficient backup options, it offers an array of features designed to meet the needs of various users. It's user-friendly, feature-rich, and delivers on its promises. The device is not only suitable for personal use but also holds potential for enterprise-level applications in the future.
Rating
9/10
The Asustor AS5402T shines in almost every category, making it a compelling choice for anyone in need of a reliable NAS solution. With only minor software-related drawbacks, it earns a 9 out of 10 rating for its impressive hardware capabilities, efficient data management, and robust performance.
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This article was originally published on 13 Oct 2023. Product specifications, prices and availability may have changed. We sometimes receive review products and may earn commission through affiliate links. We are not obliged to publish a positive review. About our reviews and disclosures.
