Synology DiskStation DS124 review

This is a documentation-based assessment rather than a use test. I did not install a disk or measure the DS124. Its exact official specifications and manual are the basis for this review, not a claim of observed throughput or personal reliability.

The short version: one internal drive, not a mirror NAS

The Synology DiskStation DS124 is a small single-bay NAS built around a Realtek RTD1619B processor, 1 GB of DDR4 non-ECC memory and one 1GbE port. Its narrow enclosure measures 166 × 71 × 224 mm and the listed weight is 0.7 kg before a drive. That footprint may appeal when the task is centralized file access or a network destination for planned copies, but one drive bay is the defining constraint. Synology lists only Basic storage for the DS124, so it cannot create an internal two-drive SHR-1 or RAID 1 mirror.

Synology's US support-status table lists the DS124 as generally available with full DSM updates and technical support on the date checked. That is a lifecycle status, not a promise about retailer stock. The manufacturer provides DSM sharing and backup packages, but software cannot make the one-bay hardware redundant.

What a single drive can—and cannot—do

The product page lists one 3.5-inch SATA HDD or a compatible 2.5-inch SATA SSD. It lists Basic as the supported storage type and one maximum internal volume. With one disk, there is no second internal drive to mirror it. If the disk fails, the DS124 does not have an internal member to take over; recovery depends on a separate copy of the files and on how well that copy was maintained. A USB port is not an additional NAS bay or a substitute for a verified backup destination.

The product page describes file sharing, synchronization, photo management and backup applications. A one-drive NAS can be a useful shared endpoint, a working copy or a staging point for another backup, but the owner must still choose a second destination—such as another device or a suitable remote service—and test restoring files from it. If the plan requires a mirrored pair, the DS124 is not merely a smaller version of a two-bay model; it fails that requirement on hardware layout.

Synology's listed 108 TB maximum single-volume value is a software limit and is not a claim that any one drive, file system or configuration can realize that capacity. Check the compatibility list for the exact drive code and capacity. Synology notes that a 2.5-inch drive installation requires an optional Type C disk holder. Confirm whether the correct holder is included in the seller's offer; the standard package list does not include a hard drive or that optional holder.

Networking and memory match a modest role

The DS124 has one 1GbE RJ-45 port and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. Its gigabit rating describes the Ethernet interface, not an expected file-copy speed. A slower wireless client, switch, cable or storage workload may reduce transfers. There is no built-in 2.5GbE path listed, and the source material does not list a supported external expansion shelf that adds internal bays.

The 1 GB of non-ECC memory is a deliberately modest starting configuration. Synology's page does not list an upgrade ceiling for this model, so this review does not assume that RAM can be expanded. A small set of sharing and backup services may be enough; do not treat a 1 GB appliance as interchangeable with a two-bay NAS that has more memory simply because both run DSM. The product page lists 19.0 dB(A) under its specified idle test context. That manufacturer figure is not a measurement in your room; an installed mechanical drive can change what you hear.

How it compares with DS223 and DS223j

Synology's three-model comparison shows that DS124 shares the Realtek RTD1619B and 1 GB non-ECC memory with DS223j, but DS124 has one drive bay and DS223j has two. DS223 has two bays and 2 GB of memory. Both two-bay models list SHR and RAID 1; DS124 lists only Basic. All three use a single 1GbE port. DS124's very narrow 71 mm body is materially smaller than the 100 mm-wide DS223j and 108 mm-wide DS223. If a second internal drive or single-drive-failure tolerance matters, the DS223j is a closer starting point; if the smaller footprint and one-drive role are enough, the DS124 keeps the capacity plan simple.

Package and setup checks

The US product page and manual list the main unit, adapter, LAN cable, quick-start guide and accessory pack, not a drive. Sellers may offer bundles, so inspect the exact package instead of treating a NAS chassis photo as evidence of an included disk. The device uses a two-year hardware warranty according to Synology's support record. Place it where the adapter and Ethernet cable can reach a stable location with ventilation; before setup, decide how the data will be copied to an independent destination and how a restore will be tested.

Who should consider it?

Keep DS124 in view if you need one small shared-storage appliance with one internal drive and already have a separate backup plan. Skip it if your requirements include two bays, a mirror, a 2.5GbE port, or an unverified memory expansion path. The one-bay label is not a minor capacity detail; it defines the failure and growth plan. No price, stock, reseller package, personal test, customer rating or hands-on reliability result is asserted here.