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Synology DiskStation ManagerQNAP QTS
Freemium

Included with Synology NAS hardware; a few services require separate licenses.

 Freemium

Included with QNAP NAS hardware; some apps and services are paid add-ons.

Linux, Self-hosted Linux, Self-hosted
  • Polished, consistent web interface across the entire Synology hardware lineup
  • Large package center covering backup, media, sync, and surveillance apps
  • Wide app catalog through the QNAP App Center for expanding NAS functionality
  • Built-in Container Station and virtualization support for running extra services
  • Only runs on Synology's own hardware, unlike open NAS operating systems
  • Some advanced features are gated behind specific higher-end models
  • Only runs on QNAP's own hardware, unlike open NAS operating systems
  • ext4 base lacks the snapshot and dedupe depth of QNAP's ZFS-based QuTS hero
Self-hosted Self-hosted
Closed source Closed source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked September 22, 2026

Checked September 22, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.