The Synology DiskStation DS916+ is a four-bay NAS introduced in 2016, and it is now a discontinued platform. It can still serve as network storage, but a used buyer should weigh its fixed memory, the end of its upgrade path at DSM 7.4, and the cost of compatible drives before choosing one. This review separates Synology’s published specifications and performance claims from observations in a contemporaneous independent review.
What the DS916+ is—and what comes in the enclosure
The DS916+ is a four-bay network-attached storage system for SATA drives. Synology’s datasheet specifies four 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch SATA III/II bays; drives are not included. That means a bare unit is not ready to store files until compatible drives are installed.
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Synology lists an Intel Pentium N3710 quad-core processor running at 1.6 GHz, with burst speeds up to 2.56 GHz, and AES-NI hardware encryption. The network and external connections are two Gigabit Ethernet ports, three USB 3.0 ports, and one eSATA port. Supported storage arrangements listed in the datasheet are SHR, Basic, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, and RAID 10. [Synology DS916+ product page and datasheet]
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Synology offered 2 GB and 8 GB DDR3 configurations. IT Pro’s 2016 review reports that the memory cannot be upgraded, so the configuration of a used unit is a lasting constraint rather than a starting point for a later RAM upgrade. [IT Pro’s 2016 review]
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Capacity and expansion: interpret the figures carefully
Synology’s datasheet states a maximum internal raw capacity of 56 TB, calculated as four 14 TB hard drives. It notes that actual capacity depends on volume types. This is the manufacturer’s stated calculation, not a guarantee for every drive released since the NAS launched; usable capacity will also depend on the chosen storage arrangement and system overhead. Confirm compatibility for the exact drive model before buying. [Synology DS916+ product page and datasheet]
Synology named the DX513 as an expansion unit, describing a path from four to as many as nine drives. That is a launch-era expansion specification; current DX513 availability is not established here. [Synology’s 2016 launch announcement]
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Performance and the 2016 review
Synology’s 2016 launch announcement reported more than 225 MB/s read and 221 MB/s write performance, and 225 MB/s read and 209 MB/s write for encrypted data transfers. These are vendor-reported figures from the launch, not results of a current independent comparison. Real throughput depends on the network, drives, configuration, and workload, so the figures should not be treated as a promise for a particular home or office setup. [Synology’s 2016 launch announcement]
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IT Pro’s contemporaneous review praised performance and DSM, and highlighted Snapshot Replication and quiet operation. Those are observations from its 2016 review, not fresh hands-on findings about a used unit today. [IT Pro’s 2016 review]
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
DSM version and support status
Synology currently classifies the DS916+ as discontinued. Its status page lists full DSM updates but limited technical support. Synology’s DSM release notes identify DSM 7.4 as the last upgradable operating-system version for this model; the page lists DSM 7.4.1-90080 dated July 23, 2026. Because release and support information can change, consult the live status and release-note pages before deployment or making a security-support decision. [Synology product status] [Synology DS916+ release notes]
Is a used DS916+ worth buying?
There is no universal value verdict without a specific unit price, drive costs, and intended workload. The platform’s age and fixed RAM make the use case especially important: a 2 GB unit cannot be turned into an 8 GB unit later, and DSM 7.4 is the listed upgrade ceiling. Consider it only after comparing the complete cost and support situation with other NAS options, rather than judging the enclosure price alone.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Check before you buy
- Identify the memory configuration. Verify whether the unit is the 2 GB or 8 GB version and decide whether that fixed capacity suits the planned workload.
- Price the full storage setup. The enclosure has no drives. Verify each exact HDD model against Synology’s compatibility information and include its cost in the purchase decision. [Synology compatibility list]
- Inspect the used enclosure. Check its physical condition and confirm that the bays, ports, and network connections function as expected before relying on it for important data.
- Confirm the software ceiling. Review the current DS916+ release notes and product status, particularly if your deployment depends on future DSM upgrades or technical support.
- Assess expansion realistically. The DX513 is the named expansion option in Synology’s launch materials, but its current stock and availability are unverified.
- Compare like with like. For another NAS candidate, prioritize independent tests for your workload and compare support runway, memory, bay count, expansion costs, and total system cost. The launch performance figures alone are not a modern head-to-head benchmark.
Verdict
The DS916+ remains a clearly specified four-bay NAS with a useful set of RAID and SHR options, but its discontinued status, DSM 7.4 ceiling, and non-upgradable memory are central to any decision today. A used unit is most defensible when its installed configuration matches the workload, compatible drives and total cost make sense, and the buyer accepts the platform’s limited support runway.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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