Beelink's New NAS: A Compact Solution for Creators
The new ME Pro Creator Edition combines high-performance hardware with a modular design.
Beelink, known primarily for its mini-PCs, is entering the market with a compelling new device. The ME Pro Creator Edition is a four-bay network-attached storage (NAS) system that features a compact metal chassis and impressive technical specifications. The company is targeting the creative industry, specifically professionals who require fast access to and management of large volumes of data.
Technical Capabilities and Design
At the heart of the device is an Intel Core i5-13500H processor, offering 12 cores and 16 threads. The unit comes equipped with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, which can be expanded up to 96GB. For system storage, it includes a 500GB SSD, while data storage is handled by four bays supporting both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives.
In terms of design, Beelink has focused on minimalism. Measuring 165 x 121 x 185 mm, the company claims the device is 50% smaller than standard NAS designs. The internal construction facilitates efficient cooling through a dedicated fan and an aluminium chassis that helps dissipate heat.
FygoOS and Flexibility
The device runs on the FygoOS operating system, which is highly flexible and multifunctional. It allows users to view the NAS not merely as a "black box," but as a full-fledged platform. The system supports file systems such as BTRFS, EXT4, and ZFS, which are essential for data protection and management.
Its modular design is also noteworthy; the motherboard module can be easily removed from the chassis, simplifying future upgrades to the processor or other components. However, it is worth noting that the drive installation is not "tool-less," meaning screws are required to secure each drive.
Price and Availability
The Beelink ME Pro series is launching on Kickstarter. Prices range from $369 for base models to $1,379 for versions featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470. The starting price for the Core i5-13500H version under the "Super Early Bird" offer is $819, which is highly competitive for a device with these specifications.
It is important to remember that backing a project on Kickstarter is not a traditional purchase and delivery timelines may be subject to change. Nevertheless, if the project is successful and reaches the retail market, it will pose serious competition to industry giants like Synology or QNAP.
For users involved in video editing or photography, this device could be an attractive alternative, particularly given its 10GbE network port and high performance. However, until the device is widely available in retail, it is advisable to approach pre-orders with caution.