INTRODUCTION

   Network attached storage devices (NAS servers as we like to call them) have always offered a cost-effective solution not only for both local and remote file sharing but also for a plethora of functions including web hosting, system backup, media playback and sharing (video, audio and pictures), network video recording (surveillance), file download, web browsing and more. Even though however due to the large number of possible functions network attached storage devices are able to cover every segment of the market (from regular consumers to enthusiasts and professionals) no manufacturer has ever tried to aim them towards gamers, at least until now. ASUSTOR is the very first to do that and today we'll be thoroughly testing their brand new AS5304T model (also referred to as Nimbustor 4).

   Founded in 2011, ASUSTOR Inc. was established via direct investment from ASUSTeK Computer Inc. The ASUSTOR brand name was created as a portmanteau of “ASUS” and “Storage”. ASUSTOR is a leading innovator and provider of private cloud storage (network attached storage) and video surveillance (network video recorder) solutions, also specializing in the development and integration of related firmware, hardware and applications. We are devoted to providing the world with an unparalleled user experience and the most complete set of network storage solutions possible.

   Compared to older models ASUSTOR has given two new things to the Nimbustor line of NAS (2/4 SATA III bay models - Single/JBOD/RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 6/RAID 10), design (diamond cut black plastic exterior - thanks to the red "touches" it reminds us of AMD and ASUS ROG) and dual 2.5GbE connectivity (based on Realtek RTL8125 chips - backwards compatible with 10/100/1000Mbps) which via link-aggregation (when supported by your router/switch) can achieve speeds of up to 5GbE (500MB/s+). Under the hood of the AS5304T we find the Intel Celeron J4105 quad-core Processor (UHD Graphics 600/4MB Cache/10W TDP/burst speed up to 2.50GHz) together with 4GB SO-DIMM DDR4-2400 RAM (expandable to 8GB) and a 4GB eMMC flash memory module (MLC/JEDEC eMMC 5.1 standard). As for available connectors the AS5304T Nimbustor 4 is outfitted with 3 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 2 RJ45 2.5G Ethernet ports (with support for link aggregation) and a single HDMI 2.0a output (supports 4k HDR playback). Also just like with previous models ASUSTOR covers the brand new Nimbustor line of NAS with a 3-year limited warranty.