Asustor is refreshing its entry-level storage lineup with two compact, wallet-friendly NAS options designed for home users and small offices. The new Drivestore AS1202T (2-bay) and AS1204T (4-bay) focus on straightforward, reliable file storage with room to grow, making them appealing choices for backups, media libraries, and collaborative file sharing without the complexity or cost of higher-end systems.
Both models accept standard 3.5-inch hard drives and support common RAID configurations for data redundancy and performance. While there’s no M.2 slot for SSD caching, capacity can scale well beyond the internal bays via compatible expansion units that add up to 12 more drives—ideal for users who start small but expect their storage needs to grow over time.
These Drivestore units keep costs down by trimming extras. There’s no HDMI output and no PCIe slot for add-in cards. All three USB Type-A ports run at up to 5 Gbps, which is fine for attaching external drives or performing quick backups. Networking is handled by a single 2.5 GbE Ethernet port—an immediate upgrade over the 1 GbE connections common on many budget NAS devices, and enough bandwidth to better utilize multi-drive arrays in real-world transfers.
Under the hood, both models are powered by an efficient ARM-based Realtek RTD1619B quad-core processor that tops out at 1.7 GHz. Memory is DDR4, but it isn’t user-upgradable, so choose the configuration that fits your workload from the start. Energy efficiency is a highlight: the 2-bay AS1202T draws about 11.6 watts under load and around 6 watts in standby, helping keep electricity costs in check for always-on operation.
Who should consider these NAS devices? If you want dependable shared storage, simple setup, and a clear upgrade path through external expansion—without paying for features you won’t use—this duo hits the sweet spot. Opt for the AS1202T if you primarily need mirrored redundancy or a compact backup target; step up to the AS1204T for more drive flexibility and higher potential capacity in the same approachable package.
Key points at a glance:
– Models: Drivestore AS1202T (2-bay) and AS1204T (4-bay)
– Drives: 3.5-inch HDD support; no M.2 SSD caching
– Expandability: Supports expansion units for up to 12 additional drives
– Networking: Single 2.5 GbE Ethernet port
– Ports: Three USB Type-A (5 Gbps)
– No HDMI output and no PCIe expansion
– Processor: Realtek RTD1619B, quad-core, up to 1.7 GHz
– Memory: DDR4, not user-upgradable
– Power use (AS1202T): ~11.6 W under load, ~6 W in standby
For anyone seeking a budget NAS with faster-than-gigabit networking, practical expansion options, and low power draw, the new Drivestore models make a strong case as reliable, future-ready foundations for home and small office storage.
