AOOSTAR Launches Affordable WTR Max NAS with Intel Processor, Supporting up to 11 Disks

AOOSTAR has added a new low-cost model to its high-performance NAS (Network-Attached Storage) device lineup, the “WTR Max,” featuring an Intel processor. While the previous AMD Ryzen-equipped model is priced at $659, the new Intel version is more budget-friendly at $559, making it an attractive choice for users looking to save on costs.

Large-Capacity Storage Supporting Up to 11

Disks The most appealing feature of the WTR Max is its exceptional storage expandability. It comes with six 3.5-inch SATA bays and five M.2 2280 slots, allowing for a total of up to 11 disks to be installed simultaneously. By combining high-capacity HDDs with high-speed SSDs, users can handle both archive cold storage and hot storage for fast access within a single device.

Key Differences Between the Intel and AMD

Versions The new Intel version is equipped with the 12th generation mobile processor Core i5-1235U, featuring two Performance cores and eight Efficiency cores in a 12-thread configuration. The processor has a maximum clock speed of 4.4 GHz and integrates an Intel Iris Xe GPU with 80 execution units, although it lacks an NPU. Its TDP ranges from 15 to 55 watts. On the other hand, the existing AMD version features the Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS, built on Zen 4 architecture with an 8-core, 16-thread configuration. It has a clock speed ranging from 3.8 GHz to 5.1 GHz and includes an RDNA 3-based Radeon 780M GPU (12 cores, up to 2.7 GHz) as well as an NPU capable of up to 16 TOPS, making it equipped to handle AI-related workloads.

Differences in Memory and Storage Interfaces

The differences between the two models extend beyond CPU performance. In terms of memory, the AMD version supports up to 128GB of DDR5-5600 ECC memory, while the Intel version is limited to 96GB of DDR5-4800 non-ECC memory. For NAS applications, where data integrity is critical, the lack of ECC memory support in the Intel version is a significant point to consider. There are also differences in M.2 slot specifications: the AMD version supports PCIe 4.0 (three x2 slots and two x1 slots), whereas the Intel version is limited to PCIe 3.0 (three x2 slots and two x1 slots). This affects the sequential transfer speeds of NVMe SSDs, giving the AMD version an edge for users seeking maximum storage performance.

Shared Abundance of Port Options Both models

boast an impressive array of network interfaces. They come with two 10-gigabit Ethernet ports (Intel 82599 chip) and two 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports (Intel i226V chip), offering a total of four wired LAN ports. This setup enables high-speed home networking and simultaneous connections to multiple network segments. In addition to networking, the devices feature a wide range of other ports, including an OCuLink port for external GPU connections, a USB4 port, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, a 3.5mm audio combo jack, and a microSD card reader. However, Wi-Fi functionality is not built-in, so users requiring wireless connectivity will need to purchase a separate USB wireless adapter.

Cooling System and LCD Display The cooling

system is designed with four fans and a vapor chamber heatsink, ensuring stable heat dissipation even when multiple drives are installed. The chassis measures 249×245×195mm, making it compact for a desktop NAS. A small LCD display is located on the lower left of the front panel, showing real-time information such as CPU and GPU utilization, memory usage, and data transfer statistics. This feature is particularly convenient for home users who may not have a dedicated server room but still want to monitor their NAS’s performance easily.

Price and Purchasing Considerations The Intel

version is priced at $559, while the AMD version is currently available at a sale price of $659. However, both models are sold as barebone kits, meaning they do not include memory or storage. Users will need to separately purchase DDR5 SODIMM memory, hard drives, and, if necessary, NVMe SSDs. When factoring in the cost of storage devices, the actual total cost of setup could end up being more than double the listed price, which potential buyers should consider beforehand.

Which Should You Choose: AMD or Intel?

The choice is clear. If you prioritize CPU and GPU performance, ECC memory compatibility, and high-speed PCIe 4.0 storage interfaces, the AMD version is the better option. However, if you only need basic storage server functionality and prefer to save $100, the Intel version should suffice. While the Intel Core i5-1235U is a mobile chip from a few generations ago, it offers sufficient performance for common NAS tasks like file sharing, media streaming, and backup services. For use cases that demand higher CPU performance, such as transcoding or running multiple container-based applications, the AMD version is better equipped to handle the load. AOOSTAR is a relatively new NAS manufacturer but is carving out a unique niche by incorporating cutting-edge interfaces like OCuLink and USB4, as well as including standard 10-gigabit LAN ports—features not commonly found in products from major manufacturers. With the addition of the Intel version, AOOSTAR is now better positioned to appeal to a wider range of budgets. FAQ: Q: What is the price difference between the Intel and AMD versions of the AOOSTAR WTR Max? A: The Intel version is priced at $559, while the AMD version is currently sold at $659, resulting in a $100 price difference. However, both models are sold as barebone kits without memory or storage, so additional costs for these components should be considered. Q: Is the lack of ECC memory support a drawback for the Intel version as a NAS? A: ECC memory has error correction capabilities that are crucial for maintaining data integrity, making it preferable for NAS applications that require long-term stability. While the Intel version only supports non-ECC memory, it should suffice for home file servers or media streaming purposes. However, for business use or long-term critical data storage, the AMD version is more suitable. Q: Does the WTR Max have built-in Wi-Fi? A: No, the WTR Max does not come with built-in Wi-Fi. It is designed for wired LAN use and is equipped with two 10-gigabit and two 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports, for a total of four wired LAN ports. For wireless connectivity, users will need to use a separate USB wireless adapter.