ReadyNas Duo vs DIY (MSI Wind, maybe?)

[ivierlin27]

I'm looking for a NAS for two things:
1) reliable storage and backup
2) USB printer sharing

I have an HP LaserJet 1012 to share on the network, and will be backing up a couple of mac laptops and a windows desktop.

I don't expect to fill more than 500GB and I have two Samsung HD501LJ 500GB drives already, so I'll likely just raid1 them.

The question is, what enclosure should I go with?

I like the ReadyNas Duo from what I've read of it. It seems reliable, decently fast, and fairly feature-rich. I see that Amazon has the diskless version for $234ish with netgear offering a $50 rebate for purchases before the end of the year, so it is pretty cost effective right now, too.

The other option I'm considering, though, is an Atom based machine like the MSI Wind PC.

I'm fairly competent with Linux administration, so that aspect is not daunting, and the price is similar (around $120 for the box + $30 for some RAM), but I'm not as sure about reliability of the hardware.

Anyone have any strong opinions on my minor dilemma?

 

[thiggins]

Can't comment on the long term reliability of the Wind. But you may not be happy with USB printer sharing unless you just need basic sharing.

The Duo is a nice product, although not as fast as current generation products. The Wind or any Atom-based NAS will be faster.

 

[ivierlin27]

I chose the ReadyNAS Duo

I ended up going for the ReadyNAS Duo due to a discount NewEgg had going for getting it with the WNDR3700, which I was planning on buying as well.

I think the Duo will be sufficient for my needs for at least the next year or two, and at the price I picked it up for, it doesn't bother me too much if I upgrade after a year.