If you’re juggling a growing stash of media or business files, finding a NAS that’s both powerful and not a total headache to set up is always a challenge. The F4-424 Pro from Terramaster tries to hit that sweet spot—giving you solid performance and easy storage without turning setup into a weekend project.
- Peak Performance 4-Bay NAS: Unleash the power of the F4-424 Pro NAS storage, featuring a Core i3-N305 8-core 8-thread CPU at 3.8GHz (turbo), integrated UHD GPU at 1.25GHz, 16GB DDR5 4800MHz memory (non-ECC, upgradable to 32GB), dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, and dual M.2 NVMe slots for SSD caching. An ideal peak performance NAS storage solution for small and medium-sized business users.
- Enhanced Application Speed: The F4-424 Pro NAS enclosure, equipped with a robust CPU and DDR5 memory, achieves a remarkable 150% performance boost over its predecessors. Experience 100% faster application load times, a 45% increase in file and photo retrieval speed, a 55% improvement in database response speed, and a outstanding 65% faster PHP response for web pages. Elevate your workflow efficiency with seamless high-load performance.
- High-Speed Connectivity: The F4-424 Pro NAS case features dual 2.5 GbE interfaces and can achieve a linear data transmission speed of 283 MB/s (tested with NAS dedicated HDDs 18TB x 4, RAID 0), Link Aggregation offers a network bandwidth up to 5 Gb, ideal for multi-user and high-concurrent file access. Featuring dual USB 3.2 10Gbps interfaces, data transfer between your NAS and external devices is made swift. The F4-424 Pro supports various RAID types, including RAID 0/1/5/6/10/JBOD/Single, and TRAID.
People tend to like its tool-free drive install, sturdy feel, and the fact that it moves files around pretty quickly. The interface is mostly straightforward, and for the price, the hardware stacks up well. That said, the operating system has its quirks—permissions and transfer speeds can get a little wonky, especially if you want to dive into advanced tweaks or run third-party apps.
Overview of the TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro
This NAS keeps things simple and compact but doesn’t skimp on power. With four drive bays and a tool-free setup, it’s built for easy expansion and quick installs—no fussing with tiny screws or weird brackets.
The F4-424 Pro leans on a strong, upgradable hardware platform, and its CPU/memory combo can handle a fair bit of multitasking. Setup is usually a breeze, and the build feels solid, though the TOS5 operating system has tripped up some users, especially around file access.
On the upside, you’ve got multiple backup options and it runs quietly thanks to noise-dampening touches. Still, if you’re picky about software or need particular third-party support, it’s smart to poke around user forums first.
Impressive Processing Power
The F4-424 Pro’s 8-core processor and generous memory set it apart from a lot of similar NAS boxes. It handles everyday stuff—file sharing, backups, media streaming—without breaking a sweat, even if a few people are poking at it at once.
Is it the fastest thing out there for big business workloads? Maybe not. Some folks wish it had even more muscle for really heavy-duty tasks. But for most home offices or small teams, it keeps things humming along nicely.
Enhanced Application Speed
Speed matters, especially when you’re moving files or streaming. The F4-424 Pro does a good job here—multiple users can access stuff at once without the system dragging. Opening folders, launching apps, and general navigation feel snappy, especially if you’re used to entry-level models.
Performance can dip a bit if you really pile on the users or apps, but for regular home or small office use, it’s more than enough.
Summary Table:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast app responses | Slower with very heavy use |
| Handles multitasking | Speed may depend on setup |
High-Speed Connectivity and Data Transfer
Nobody likes waiting on file transfers. The F4-424 Pro comes with dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, which means you can get pretty fast speeds—especially if your network supports link aggregation. People generally report smooth uploads and downloads when everything’s set up right.
USB 3.2 ports are handy for plugging in external drives, and direct transfers are quick. Still, transfer speeds over SMB can be hit or miss depending on your setup and the NAS’s software. Sometimes it just needs a bit of tinkering to get the best out of it.
Effortless Upgrade and Installation
One of the big perks here is the tool-free drive trays and a side-sliding cover for M.2 SSDs. Swapping or adding storage is straightforward, no tiny screwdrivers required.
The Push-Lock system keeps drives secure, and even SSD installs are easier thanks to hand-tightened screws. Maybe it could be even faster with snap-in trays, but overall, installation and upgrades are painless as long as you follow the manual.
Comprehensive Backup Solutions
Backup options are solid. Tools like Centralized Backup, Duple Backup, Snapshots, and CloudSync help keep your data safe and let you manage both local and cloud backups. If you need to mix and match workflows, there’s flexibility.
That said, some users bump into compatibility issues or a bit of a learning curve with the backup software. It’s a strong point, but how smooth it goes depends on what you’re trying to do and what platforms you’re used to.
Quiet Operation and Build Quality
They put some effort into keeping this thing quiet—sound-absorbing panels and extra shock absorption are built in. Most folks say it runs quietly enough for shared spaces.
Build-wise, it feels solid, and the tool-free trays/push-locks make life easier. There are a few plastic bits that might not wow those expecting an all-metal case, but for most, the balance of quiet and sturdy is just fine.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Setup is genuinely easy, even if you’re new to NAS. Lots of people mention getting up and running faster than expected.
- The case feels tough, and the design of the drive bays is thoughtful.
- You can upgrade the hardware, like adding more RAM, which is a nice bonus if you want to future-proof things.
- The software interface is generally approachable, and there’s a fair bit of help online if you get stuck.
- Getting drives in and sharing files is quick—no marathon sessions needed.
| Highlight | Noted By Users |
|---|---|
| Solid construction | Several reviewers |
| Quick setup | Common feedback |
| Expandable RAM | Discussed in reviews |
Cons
- The default operating system isn’t always rock-solid—some run into slow transfers or nagging permission errors.
- If you want to use a third-party OS, expect some hiccups and a bit of extra tinkering.
- The mobile app and file manager can be finicky, especially with files uploaded through those channels.
- Documentation doesn’t always spell everything out, so a few upgrades or tweaks might be less straightforward than you’d hope.
- If you’re venturing beyond basic setup, you might need to lean on forums or external support.
Summary Table of Common Issues:
| Issue | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Software/OS challenges | Mentioned often |
| App/file access problems | Several users |
| RAM upgrade uncertainty | Referenced |
Customer Reviews
Most folks say the F4-424 Pro is built well and doesn’t make setup a hassle—even for NAS newbies. The included software is easier to wrangle than you might expect, and online guides help fill in the blanks.
But, yeah, the operating system can be a pain—permission snags and slow transfers on TOS5 pop up in a few reviews. The mobile app seems hit or miss for file management, too.
If you’re thinking about using other NAS software like Unraid or TrueNAS Scale, be ready for some weirdness or extra steps. All in all, most users are happy with the hardware, but the experience can swing depending on your setup and how tech-savvy you are.
Conclusion
If you’re after reliable storage with room to grow, the TERRAMASTER F4-424 Pro is a solid pick for good hardware and a setup that won’t make you want to pull your hair out. First-timers especially seem to appreciate the straightforward process and sturdy build.
There are clear upsides—quick install, better software than older versions, and just a generally no-nonsense approach. On the flip side, the OS can still be a little temperamental, and file management isn’t always perfect, especially with TOS5 or through the app.
Strengths:
- Durable hardware
- Smooth initial setup
- Noticeable software improvements
Weaknesses:
- Some OS and permission headaches
- Learning curve for third-party OS installs
It’s a strong value overall, but you might need a bit of patience if you want to push beyond the basics.
Frequently Asked Questions
People usually want to know what’s new, how it handles media, compatibility quirks, and how it stacks up to the competition. Here’s a quick rundown.
What improvements have been made in the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro compared to the previous models?
You get a new Intel 8-core processor, faster DDR5 memory, and dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports. All this means better speed—file access, app launches, databases, and web stuff are all noticeably quicker than before.
They’ve also made it easier to install SSDs and improved the mounting system. There are better sound-dampening panels, and the backup software is more robust.
How does the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro perform with Plex Media Server?
A lot of folks use this for Plex. It holds up well for home or small office streaming, and the built-in UHD GPU helps with transcoding. For everyday use or smaller 4K files, it’s more than enough, though pushing high-bitrate 4K to multiple users at once might be a stretch.
Can you describe the link aggregation capabilities of the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro?
With two 2.5 GbE ports, you can set up link aggregation (if your network supports it) and get up to 5Gbps combined speed. This is handy for busy setups or if you just want the fastest transfers possible. Just check your router or switch first—some users say they get close to the advertised speeds, especially in RAID 0.
Are there any TerraMaster models superior to the F4-424 Pro in terms of performance?
For consumer and small business use, the F4-424 Pro is pretty much at the top of TerraMaster’s stack. There are bigger, enterprise-focused models with more bays or beefier specs, but for a compact 4-bay NAS, this one’s among the best they offer.
Of course, if you’re comparing across other brands or looking at high-end enterprise gear, you’ll find faster options. Within the 4-bay crowd, though, the F4-424 Pro is tough to beat for the price and features.
Is the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro compatible with TrueNAS?
People definitely wonder about running third-party NAS operating systems on their hardware. From what I’ve seen, the F4-424 Pro does run TrueNAS for a fair number of folks, though it’s not always smooth sailing—setup quirks and driver headaches pop up, especially at first.
Some users manage to get things working after a few extra steps or digging through community fixes, but honestly, you can’t count on full, official TrueNAS compatibility. If you’re hoping for plug-and-play support, it’s worth poking around in the latest forums or user threads. Experiences seem to vary a bit, so double-checking recent reports is probably wise.
What are the detailed specifications of the TerraMaster F4-424 Pro?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main specs—just the essentials:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core i3-N305, 8 cores, 8 threads |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 (upgradable to 32GB) |
| Bays | 4 drive bays |
| NVMe Slots | Dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots |
| Ethernet Ports | Dual 2.5GbE (link aggregation capable) |
| USB Ports | Dual USB 3.2 10Gbps |
| RAID Support | RAID 0/1/5/6/10, JBOD, Single, TRAID |
| Build Features | Tool-free disk trays, Push-Lock design |
| Backup Options | Centralized Backup, Duple Backup, etc. |
You get a bunch of RAID choices, tool-free drive setup, and a few hardware tweaks that set it apart from older models. Noise and vibration have been dialed down, too—not a bad touch.
If you’re after a NAS that juggles performance and flexibility, the F4-424 Pro is worth a look. That said, it’s smart to double-check the manufacturer’s site or latest docs for the fine print and any updates.
