A captivating new DIY project has emerged, offering a fully 3D-printable alternative to high-end, compact NAS devices. Inspired by the popular Minisforum N5 series, tech enthusiast Jack Harvest introduced the “N5 Mini” on Reddit. This five-bay, 175mm NAS enclosure is designed to work with nearly any mini-PC, providing a cost-effective and customizable network storage solution.
Drawing from the sleek design and features of the N5 series—which boasts AMD Ryzen-powered models ranging from $729 to $1,299—the N5 Mini offers a much more accessible option. Harvest’s design fits on a Bambulab A1 Mini 3D printer and can be assembled using PETG plastic for the main case and TPU for additional components. His goals focused on compactness, easy assembly without the need for print supports, and low power consumption—a remarkable difference from the often larger and less efficient Mini-ITX NAS builds common in the DIY community.
The entire project was crafted using Shapr3D, making it an open-source initiative. The print files are available for free, allowing builders to use widely accessible components such as standard keystone jacks, a five-bay SATA backplane, and modular cabling. Notable features include magnetic faceplates, a tool-free mini-PC drawer, and straightforward electrical connections. Impressively, the core hardware costs around $215—significantly cheaper than many commercial NAS units with similar drive capacities.
Full assembly instructions and part recommendations can be found on Jack Harvest’s website. The guide also encourages the repurposing of older mini-PCs to drive the NAS. Harvest has generously shared the files for free on Makerworld, with plans to release the original CAD designs soon.
