Synology
Synology DS1522+
NAS · $699
88
/ 100
From $699
VS
QNAP
QNAP TS-h973AX
NAS · $1599
88
/ 100
From $1,599
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Synology DS1522+ lands at 88 and QNAP TS-h973AX at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Synology DS1522+ if…
- ✓Rich software ecosystem (Synology/QNAP)
- ✓NVMe cache slots on newer models
- ✓Docker/VM support on higher tiers
Pick QNAP TS-h973AX if…
- ✓Rich software ecosystem (Synology/QNAP)
- ✓NVMe cache slots on newer models
- ✓Docker/VM support on higher tiers
Score breakdown
Synology DS1522+
88 performance 88
features 88
software 86
value 82
QNAP TS-h973AX
88 performance 88
features 88
software 86
value 82
Specs side-by-side
Spec
Synology DS1522+
QNAP TS-h973AX
Synology DS1522+
Pros
- +Rich software ecosystem (Synology/QNAP)
- +NVMe cache slots on newer models
- +Docker/VM support on higher tiers
Cons
- −Disks rarely included
- −Drive compatibility restrictions on some brands
- −Power draw 24/7
QNAP TS-h973AX
Pros
- +Rich software ecosystem (Synology/QNAP)
- +NVMe cache slots on newer models
- +Docker/VM support on higher tiers
Cons
- −Disks rarely included
- −Drive compatibility restrictions on some brands
- −Power draw 24/7
FAQ: Synology DS1522+ vs QNAP TS-h973AX
Which is better, Synology DS1522+ or QNAP TS-h973AX? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Synology DS1522+ worth the price? +
At $699, Synology DS1522+ delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in performance.
Is QNAP TS-h973AX worth the price? +
At $1,599, QNAP TS-h973AX delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in performance.
Does Synology DS1522+ or QNAP TS-h973AX last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.