Asustor AS6704T v2 Review: Dual 5GbE NAS for Creators
The Asustor AS6704T v2 is a high-performance NAS enclosure designed for content creators and small businesses, featuring dual 5GbE ports, four M.2 slots, and 4K transcoding support.
Network-attached storage (NAS) has evolved from simple file servers into powerful hubs for collaboration, media, and data protection. The Asustor AS6704T v2 sits at the forefront of this evolution, targeting users who need more than basic backup. This 4-bay enclosure, part of the Lockerstor Gen2+ series, is engineered for creative studios and small teams, packing an Intel quad-core CPU, dual high-speed network ports, and a flexible hybrid storage architecture. For professionals dealing with large video files, collaborative projects, or demanding home media setups, the AS6704T v2 presents a compelling, no-compromises solution that balances raw performance with practical features.

At its core, this NAS is built to accelerate workflows. The headline feature is its dual 5-Gigabit Ethernet ports, which promise significantly faster data transfer compared to standard Gigabit networking, effectively doubling available bandwidth for teams. Coupled with four dedicated M.2 NVMe SSD slots for caching or storage, the system is designed to improve responsiveness and handle intensive tasks like video editing directly from the network. While it arrives diskless, requiring a separate investment in hard drives or SSDs, its specification sheet reads like a checklist for modern digital creators. The bottom line: the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 is a specialized tool that excels in bandwidth-intensive environments where network speed and storage flexibility are critical.
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS
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Asustor AS6704T v2 at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | AS6704T v2 |
| CPU | Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core |
| Memory | 4GB DDR4 (Expandable to 16GB) |
| Drive Bays | 4 x SATA (for HDD/SSD) |
| M.2 Slots | 4 x NVMe SSD |
| Network Ports | 2 x 5GbE Ethernet |
| Video Output | 1 x HDMI |
| USB Ports | 2 |
| RAID Support | 0, 1, 5, 6, JBOD |
| Dimensions | 9.06 x 6.69 x 7.3 inches |
Design and Build
The Asustor AS6704T v2 presents a clean, professional aesthetic in black, with dimensions that make it suitable for placement on a desk or within a network rack. Measuring 9.06 by 6.69 by 7.3 inches, its footprint is compact for a 4-bay unit, though its functionality is densely packed. The build quality, as described by the manufacturer, is geared toward 24/7 reliability and durability, a necessity for any network storage device serving as the backbone for data. The front panel provides access to the drive bays, while the rear houses the critical connectivity: the dual 5GbE ports, HDMI output, and USB ports. The design philosophy appears focused on utility and cooling, ensuring stable operation under continuous workloads common in creative and business environments.
User-friendly touches are noted in the manufacturer’s description, notably the tool-free installation for M.2 SSDs, which uses latches instead of screws. This simplifies the process of adding high-speed cache drives, though it demands careful handling of the small components. The overall impression is of a device built for hands-on users who may be frequently adjusting their storage configuration, whether swapping drives or upgrading memory. The physical design supports the product’s goal of being a flexible, high-performance hub without unnecessary complexity in its maintenance.
Performance and Features
Processing Power and Memory
At the heart of the AS6704T v2 is an Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor. According to Asustor, this CPU, built on 10nm technology, offers up to 31% faster performance than previous-generation Gemini Lake systems. This efficiency is key for smooth multitasking across file sharing, media streaming, and running multiple NAS applications simultaneously. The system ships with 4GB of DDR4 RAM running at 2933 MT/s, but its scalability is a major feature: memory is expandable up to 16GB. This allows users to tailor the NAS to their workload, adding more RAM for demanding scenarios like hosting virtual machines, handling more simultaneous user connections, or improving performance for data-intensive applications like video editing project storage.
Hybrid Storage and Connectivity
The storage architecture is where this NAS truly distinguishes itself. It supports a hybrid setup, combining four traditional SATA bays for high-capacity HDDs or SSDs with four dedicated M.2 NVMe SSD slots. These M.2 slots can be used for read/write caching to dramatically boost the performance of the larger SATA array, or they can be configured as a separate, ultra-fast storage tier. This flexibility lets users optimize for either raw capacity, maximum speed, or a balance of both. For network connectivity, the dual 5GbE ports are the standout specification. They enable significantly faster file transfers—essential for moving large project files—and support SMB Multichannel to aggregate bandwidth, effectively doubling throughput for compatible clients. This makes it ideal for collaborative creative environments where multiple users need to access the same storage pool at high speed.
Media and Software Capabilities
Beyond raw storage, the AS6704T v2 is equipped as a capable media server. It supports hardware-accelerated 4K transcoding, which allows it to convert video files on the fly for smooth playback on different devices, such as phones, tablets, or smart TVs. The inclusion of an HDMI port means the NAS can also be connected directly to a monitor or television for local playback, turning it into a central hub for a home entertainment system. Software features are extensive, centered on Asustor’s ADM operating system and App Central. Key apps include Plex Media Server, comprehensive backup solutions for desktops and mobile devices, and Snapshot Center for creating point-in-time recovery points to protect against accidental file modification or ransomware.
Security and Access
The device is designed as a private cloud solution, providing secure remote access so teams can collaborate from anywhere. It supports cross-platform access from Windows, macOS, and Linux devices, as well as mobile apps. Features like Wake on WAN/LAN allow for energy-saving sleep modes while remaining accessible. From a data protection standpoint, the NAS supports multiple RAID configurations (0, 1, 5, 6, and JBOD), giving users options for speed, redundancy, or a mix of both to safeguard their work.
Setup, Support and Ownership
Setup for the diskless AS6704T v2 begins with purchasing and installing compatible SATA hard drives or SSDs. Asustor provides a compatibility list on its website that should be consulted before buying drives. The manufacturer highlights a simplified software installation process via the AiMaster mobile app, which can complete initial setup in three steps without needing a PC. Once running, the system is designed for 24/7 operation with power-saving features to reduce energy consumption during idle periods. Asustor offers a three-year manufacturer warranty, providing a substantial period of coverage for this core infrastructure device. Ongoing support comes through firmware and app updates delivered via the ADM operating system, ensuring security and feature enhancements over time.
Ownership involves managing the hybrid storage system, which offers great flexibility but may require some planning to configure optimally for specific use cases—like deciding between using the M.2 slots for cache or as a standalone volume. The tool-free design for M.2 installation and the expandable RAM are user-upgradeable features that add long-term value. For those interested in broader tech solutions, our AI & Software section explores other tools that can complement a robust home or office network.
What Owners Say
Owner feedback for the Asustor AS6704T v2, as reflected in its rating distribution, is exceptionally positive. The product holds a high average rating, with all reviews falling into the highest star category. This indicates a very satisfied user base, though the specific reasons for this satisfaction are not detailed in the available excerpts. The consensus suggests that owners find the NAS delivers on its promised performance and feature set, meeting the needs of creators and professionals who require its specific blend of high-speed networking and flexible storage. For more insights on curated tech gear, readers can browse our dedicated Tech Gear page.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Dual 5GbE ports provide superior network speeds for bandwidth-intensive work.
- Four M.2 NVMe slots enable effective performance tuning through caching or tiered storage.
- HDMI output and 4K transcoding support make it versatile for home media centers.
- Expandable RAM and multiple RAID levels offer strong scalability and data protection.
- Intel quad-core CPU ensures efficient multitasking and 24/7 operation.
- Tool-free M.2 installation simplifies upgrades.
Cons
- Diskless design requires separate HDD or SSD purchases to get started.
- Advanced features may exceed the needs for basic home file storage users.
- Tool-free M.2 installation is convenient but demands careful handling of small components.
- Optimal configuration for hybrid storage requires planning and technical understanding.
- The power and connectivity may be underutilized in very simple, single-user scenarios.
- Initial investment is focused on the enclosure, with storage costs added on top.
Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip It)
The Asustor AS6704T v2 is an ideal purchase for content creators, videographers, photographers, and small creative studios. If your work involves regularly transferring multi-gigabyte project files over a network, collaborating with a team on shared assets, or needing a fast, centralized media server that can handle 4K transcoding, this NAS is built for you. It’s equally well-suited for small businesses that require a secure, private cloud for file sharing and remote access with better performance than typical cloud services.
Conversely, you should skip this model if your needs are limited to basic file backup for a single computer, simple media streaming without transcoding, or if you do not have a network that can support 5GbE speeds (requiring compatible switches and network cards). Users looking for an out-of-the-box storage solution should note the diskless nature of this product. For those seeking simpler solutions, our Reviews category offers analysis on a wide range of consumer tech products.
Final Verdict
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 is a specialized and powerful NAS enclosure that makes few compromises on performance and flexibility. Its defining characteristics—the dual 5GbE network ports and the hybrid storage architecture with four M.2 slots—target a specific audience: professionals for whom network speed and storage responsiveness directly impact productivity. When paired with a capable network and quality drives, it can transform collaborative workflows and serve as a robust hub for both work and entertainment.
While its advanced feature set and diskless design mean it isn’t the simplest plug-and-play option, the trade-off is a highly configurable system that can grow with your needs. For the right user—the creator, the small business owner, or the advanced home user building a high-performance network—the AS6704T v2 represents a compelling investment in infrastructure that can handle demanding tasks today and remain relevant for years to come. It successfully fulfills its role as a “no-compromises” NAS for environments where data speed and access are paramount.
FAQs
Do I need a special network to use the 5GbE ports?
To fully utilize the dual 5GbE ports, your network infrastructure needs to support those speeds. This typically requires a 5GbE or 10GbE network switch and computers equipped with compatible network interface cards (NICs). If your existing network is only Gigabit (1GbE), the NAS will still work, but you won’t benefit from the maximum transfer speeds these ports are capable of delivering. The ports also support SMB Multichannel, which can aggregate bandwidth when connected to a suitable switch.
What is the main benefit of the four M.2 slots?
The four M.2 NVMe SSD slots provide two primary benefits. First, they can be used as a cache for the main SATA drive array. This significantly improves performance for frequently accessed files and random I/O operations, making the NAS feel much faster for tasks like loading application files or project assets. Second, they can be configured as a separate, standalone storage pool, creating an ultra-fast volume for your most performance-critical data, separate from the larger, slower capacity drives.
Can this NAS stream 4K videos to multiple devices?
Yes, thanks to its Intel Celeron N5105 CPU with integrated graphics, the AS6704T v2 supports hardware-accelerated 4K transcoding. This means it can convert high-resolution video files in real-time to formats suitable for playback on different devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs. This allows it to serve as a Plex Media Server or use other media server apps from Asustor’s App Central to stream to multiple devices simultaneously, provided the network bandwidth is sufficient.
What does “diskless” mean, and what do I need to buy?
“Diskless” means the NAS enclosure is sold without any internal hard drives or SSDs. To use it, you must purchase compatible SATA drives (HDDs or SSDs) to install in the four main bays. You may also choose to purchase NVMe SSDs for the four M.2 slots to act as cache or fast storage. It is crucial to check Asustor’s official compatibility list on their website before purchasing drives to ensure full functionality and support.