QNAP TL-D800C 8 Bay USB 3.2 Gen 2 Enclosure Review for NAS Expansion

Description

Introduction and Initial Impressions

The QNAP TL-D800C and item model number TL-D800C came highly recommended for anyone needing reliable storage expansion. As someone who’s constantly juggling large projects and dealing with massive data backups, I was curious to see whether this 8-bay desktop JBOD storage enclosure could live up to the hype. Spoiler alert: while it performs admirably in many areas, there are definitely some quirks and limitations worth considering.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the physical design of this storage enclosure left a strong impression. The compact yet sturdy exterior felt well-made, with a sleek matte finish that doesn’t scream “tech geek” like some other enclosures I’ve used. Measuring 12.96 x 11.08 x 7.41 inches, it’s definitely not small, but its footprint is surprisingly manageable for an 8-bay enclosure. The 16.76-pound weight might seem hefty, but it’s a reassuring sign of its solid construction.

The drive bays are easy to access, and the locking mechanism keeps everything secure. I appreciated the attention to detail here; it’s clear the designers prioritized usability and durability. However, I did notice that the unit can get a bit loud when all eight drives are spinning—it’s not deafening, but definitely noticeable in quieter environments.

Performance and Connectivity

As someone who relies on fast data transfer speeds, I was eager to test the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connectivity. The advertised 10 Gbps speed didn’t disappoint during my tests. Transferring large files felt seamless, and the connection remained stable throughout. It’s worth mentioning that this enclosure supports SATA 6Gb/s drives, which means you can fully utilize modern high-speed drives without bottlenecking.

One standout feature is the compatibility with both Windows and Mac systems. I tested it on both platforms, and the setup process was straightforward. However, the TL-D800C can only be used as a separate storage pool or volume on QNAP NAS systems, which might be a dealbreaker for those looking to integrate it into an existing pool. For me, this wasn’t a major issue, but it’s something to keep in mind depending on your workflow.

Key Benefits

• Impressive Transfer Speeds: The USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port delivers fast and reliable data transfers, ideal for large files or frequent backups.
• Robust Build Quality: The sturdy construction and premium materials give the enclosure a professional feel.
• Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and QNAP NAS systems, making it versatile for various setups.
• Ample Storage Capacity: With eight 3.5-inch SATA drive bays, this enclosure offers plenty of room for expansion.

Shortcomings

• Noise Levels: The fans and spinning drives can get quite loud, especially in a quiet room.
• Limited Integration: Cannot be combined with an existing storage pool on QNAP NAS systems.
• Hefty Weight: At 16.76 pounds, moving the enclosure isn’t exactly a breeze.

Usability and Target Audience

The TL-D800C is clearly designed for power users who need serious storage capacity. I think it’s perfect for photographers, videographers, or small business owners managing large data sets. Personally, I used it to store a combination of work projects and personal backups. The 250W power supply unit handled the workload without breaking a sweat, even when all eight bays were filled.

However, I wouldn’t recommend this enclosure to someone who’s new to storage solutions. While the setup isn’t overly complicated, the lack of integration options and some of the technical nuances might be intimidating for beginners.

Competing Products

In the world of network attached storage enclosures, there’s no shortage of alternatives. The Synology DX517, for instance, offers a more user-friendly interface and quieter operation. On the other hand, the WD My Book Duo brings RAID support to the table, making it a strong contender for those who prioritize data redundancy.

That said, the QNAP TL-D800C stands out for its raw storage capacity and high-speed data transfer. While competitors might provide more polished software experiences, this enclosure excels in performance and reliability, provided you’re willing to work around its quirks.

Price to Quality Ratio

Given the performance and build quality, I’d say this enclosure offers good value for its price range. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity and eight drive bays make it a worthwhile investment for professionals. If you’re on a tighter budget, there are smaller enclosures with fewer drive bays, but they likely won’t match the speed or versatility of this model.

For those who prioritize cost-efficiency over cutting-edge features, this product strikes a nice balance. While it’s not the most affordable option, the durability and performance make it feel like a smart purchase in the long run.

Additional information