You can keep recoverable versions of NAS files without storing a fresh full copy for every backup. Choose backup software that saves changes incrementally, enable deduplication if the product supports it, and configure retention to remove versions older than the recovery window you need. Send the backup to a separate destination; a copy kept only on the NAS is not protection against every device or site failure.
How incremental backups avoid storing a full duplicate each time
An incremental backup starts with an initial backup, then stores data added or changed since a previous run. Synology describes this behavior for Hyper Backup, which also supports multiple versions and configurable rotation. The versions give you older states to restore without requiring every run to be a wholly independent full copy. See Synology’s Hyper Backup specifications.
Deduplication is a separate storage-saving technique: it identifies identical data and stores it once within the scope supported by the product. Compression can further reduce stored data. These features do not guarantee a particular capacity saving; the result depends on your files, changes, settings, and backup software.
Choose a backup method your NAS supports
| Method | How it handles versions or repeated data | Compatibility and qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Synology Hyper Backup | Supports incremental backups, multiple versions, rotation, compression, and deduplication across versions, according to Synology. | Check package and destination support for your NAS and installed DSM release. See Synology’s specifications. |
| QNAP Hybrid Backup Sync with QuDedup | QuDedup is an optional source-side process documented by QNAP; confirm whether it is enabled for your job rather than assuming all jobs use it. | The cited guide covers Hybrid Backup Sync 3 v21.x. Labels and behavior may differ in other releases. See QNAP’s QuDedup guide. |
| Snapshot replication | Snapshots and replication can be fast and incremental. TrueNAS describes an initial full snapshot followed by incremental snapshots for replication. | Synology Snapshot Replication requires a supported model using Btrfs. TrueNAS snapshot replication uses ZFS; it is not the same mechanism as a versioned backup package. See Synology Snapshot Replication specifications and TrueNAS replication documentation. |
| ZFS deduplication | TrueNAS describes deduplication as storing identical data once. It is distinct from incremental snapshots and replication. | Do not enable it as a default capacity fix without evaluating your workload and hardware. See TrueNAS deduplication documentation. |
Before choosing, identify your NAS model, operating-system and package versions, filesystem, folders to protect, and whether you need individual-file restores or broader system recovery. Compare the product’s increment method, deduplication scope, compression, retention controls, restore workflow, encryption, scheduling, destination choices, and hardware or filesystem requirements. Product features are not interchangeable: check the documentation and settings for the exact job you plan to run.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Choose a separate backup destination
A separate destination protects against failures that affect the NAS itself. Synology lists external USB devices, remote NAS systems, and cloud destinations for Hyper Backup. A copy on the same NAS may be convenient for recovering from accidental changes, but it does not replace another destination: Synology cautions that RAID or drive failure can still lead to data loss. See Hyper Backup destination information and Synology’s NAS backup tutorial.
- External USB device: A local destination can be convenient for restores. Check that its capacity, connector, filesystem, and compatibility meet your NAS and backup package requirements.
- Remote NAS: A second NAS provides another device and can be located separately. Confirm the backup package supports the destination and that it is reachable for scheduled runs and recovery.
- Cloud destination: This offers an off-site option. Compare recurring cost, capacity, upload and restore times, and the service’s compatibility with your backup software before committing.
For any destination, consider transfer time, restore speed, geographic separation, and whether it can be disconnected or otherwise protected from mistakes or changes on the source NAS. The cited guidance establishes these destination categories, but does not establish current provider prices or a universal best choice.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Set up the backup and verify that it works
- Record your setup: Note the NAS model, operating-system and package versions, filesystem, source folders, and the type of recovery you need. Check the selected package’s compatibility with each.
- Create a versioned backup job: Select the supported package and destination. Confirm whether incremental operation is automatic and whether deduplication or compression must be enabled for the job. Check whether deduplication applies within one task, across versions, or through a source-side process.
- Choose a schedule and retention policy: Set run frequency based on how often files change and how much recent work you can afford to lose. Configure version rotation to fit the recovery period you need and the destination capacity available. There is no single correct version count for every household or office.
- Protect access: Secure the backup credentials and destination access. Keep the separate destination available when backups are scheduled, and consider how it will be protected from source-side mistakes.
- Run the initial backup: Start the job and confirm it reports successful completion. Afterward, check the destination’s actual used capacity; do not assume that adding the apparent sizes of versioned views equals the physical space consumed.
- Test a restore: Use the package’s browse or restore interface to recover a representative file to a safe location. Confirm that the restored file opens and contains the expected data before relying on the job.
What to expect from capacity savings
Incremental storage, deduplication, compression, and retention can prevent a destination from filling as quickly as it would if it kept a separate full copy for every run. The actual savings vary with the data and product settings; the cited product documentation does not support a dependable percentage for every NAS workload. Retention matters as well: keeping more versions preserves more recovery points but consumes capacity, while rotation removes older versions under the policy you set.
Snapshots can provide quick recovery, but they are not a substitute for a separate backup destination. Their availability depends on the NAS model and filesystem, and same-device recovery does not cover every failure or physical-loss scenario.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
