Synology confirms that higher-end NAS products will require its branded drives

Summary

The Synology NAS ecosystem will soon require its Plus-tier devices, starting with the 2025 series, to exclusively use Synology-branded hard drives for optimal compatibility and reliability. These new devices are at higher risk of failure or long-term issues if non-Synology drives are used due to potential stability concerns within the system. While some models already enforce this requirement, others like XS Plus and rack-mounted systems allow third-party drives with specific workarounds in place. However, Synology plans to introduce a rigorous drive compatibility framework for third-party options in the future, ensuring both user flexibility and system integrity.

Additional Summaries

"Synology-branded drives will be needed for use in the newly announced Plus series, with plans to update the Product Compatibility List as additional drives can be thoroughly vetted in Synology systems," a Synology representative told Ars by email. "Extensive internal testing has shown that drives that follow a rigorous validation process when paired with Synology systems are at less risk of drive failure and ongoing compatibility issues." Similar drive restrictions are already in place for XS Plus and rack-mounted Synology models, though work-arounds exist. Synology also says it will later add a "carefully curated drive compatibility framework" for third-party drives and that users can submit drives for testing and documentation. "Drives that meet Synology’s stringent standards may be validated for use, offering flexibility while maintaining system integrity."

Synology has clarified its policy requiring Synology-branded hard drives for its Plus-tier NAS devices starting with the 2025 series, to ensure full compatibility and avoid issues like storage pool failure or data integrity problems. The company plans to update its product compatibility list as more drives are rigorously tested and approved. Similar restrictions apply to XS Plus and rack models, though some workarounds are available. Synology also announced a framework for third-party drive testing and documentation, ensuring only qualifying drives can be used while maintaining system performance.

Synology will require its "Plus" tier devices, starting with the 2025 series, to use Synology-branded hard drives for full compatibility. These drives reduce the risk of failure and ensure system stability, but third-party drives can be used temporarily as workarounds. The company plans to expand its validation framework for third-party drives in the future. Non-compliant drives may cause NAS devices to fail or lose essential functionality.