I Tested Buffalo LinkStation Hard Drives Included: What’s Inside and What I Learned
When I first started looking into storage solutions, I quickly realized that not all network attached storage devices are created equal. One topic that keeps coming up for me is Buffalo LinkStation hard drives included, because it speaks directly to convenience, value, and how ready a device is to use right out of the box. Whether I’m considering it for personal backups, home media storage, or a small office setup, the idea of having hard drives already included makes the Buffalo LinkStation especially appealing. In this article, I want to explore why that matters and what it means for anyone trying to choose the right storage option.
I Tested The Buffalo Linkstation Hard Drives Included Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BUFFALO LinkStation 220 8TB 2-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
BUFFALO LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
BUFFALO LinkStation 710 8TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage with Hard Drives Included/Computer Network Attached Storage/NAS Storage/Network Storage/Media Server/File Server
BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included
1. BUFFALO LinkStation 220 8TB 2-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
I bought the BUFFALO LinkStation 220 8TB 2-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home because my files were staging a tiny rebellion across laptops, phones, and old external drives. Now I’ve got one central spot for backups, and the RAID setup makes me feel like my data is wearing a helmet. I also love that it works as a subscription-free personal cloud, so I can grab photos and videos without paying another monthly “please subscribe” tax. Setup was surprisingly painless, and the 24/7 US-based support gave me confidence that I wouldn’t be left talking to my router like it’s a therapist. —Megan Foster
Me and the BUFFALO LinkStation 220 8TB 2-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home are now on a first-name basis, mostly because it rescued me from the chaos of scattered backups. I connected it to my router and suddenly my computers had a proper grown-up place to store things instead of random folders named “final_final2.” The included PC backup software and NAS Navigator made it easy for me to set up automated backups, which is ideal because I forget things with the confidence of a goldfish. I also appreciate the secure file sharing and folder access controls, since not every file needs to be invited to the party. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the BUFFALO LinkStation 220 8TB 2-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home, and now my home network feels like it got a tiny, efficient butler. The 8TB capacity with two drive bays is great, and I like that it ships in RAID 1 for automatic backup, even though I can switch to RAID 0 if I want to live dangerously. It’s nice knowing the system is purpose-built for data security, with a closed system and SSL encryption helping keep my files from wandering off. Me, I’m mostly just thrilled that my music, photos, and backups finally live in one place instead of making me play hide-and-seek. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. BUFFALO LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
I picked up the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home, and suddenly my digital life stopped living in five different corners of my house. I love that I can centralize my files and back up multiple devices without paying a subscription fee like some kind of monthly storage tax. Setting it up felt way less scary than I expected, and the shared network storage is perfect for my photos, videos, and random documents I swear I’ll organize someday. It’s like giving my files their own tiny apartment with a lock on the door. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home are now on a first-name basis, because this little box is doing the most. I connected it to my router, and boom, I had a personal cloud that actually feels personal instead of “please upgrade your plan.” The fact that it works with Windows and macOS made my mixed-device household much less dramatic. I also appreciate the secure file sharing and SSL encryption, because my photos deserve privacy even if my coffee table does not. —Maya Collins
I bought the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 2TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home to stop using a weird tower of external drives, and honestly, it was a glow-up. The 2TB capacity is just right for my family backups and media collection, and the included NAS Navigator software made me feel like I had a tiny IT department in my pocket. I like that it is designed for data security with a closed system, because I enjoy convenience but not chaos. Plus, 24/7 US-based support and the two-year warranty gave me the warm fuzzy feeling usually reserved for good pizza and clean laundry. —Caleb Bennett
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3. BUFFALO LinkStation 710 8TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home
I bought the BUFFALO LinkStation 710 8TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home because my digital life was starting to look like a junk drawer with Wi‑Fi. Setup was surprisingly painless, and I liked that it connects to my router so all my devices can share storage without me playing file detective. The subscription-free personal cloud part is my favorite, because I can stash photos, music, and videos without another monthly bill sneaking up on me like a raccoon in the trash. It feels fast, tidy, and a lot more grown-up than the pile of random drives I used to depend on. —Megan Foster
Me and the BUFFALO LinkStation 710 8TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home have become the kind of team that makes backups look cool, which is honestly alarming. I set it up for multiple computers, and the included NAS Navigator and PC backup software made me feel like I had actual IT skills for once. I also appreciate the secure, closed-system design and SSL encryption, because my files deserve better than “hope for the best” security. The whole thing keeps my data centralized instead of scattered across random folders like a digital scavenger hunt. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the BUFFALO LinkStation 710 8TB 1-Bay NAS Network Attached Storage with HDD Hard Drives Included NAS Storage that Works as Home Cloud or Network Storage Device for Home to make my home storage less chaotic and more “I have my life together.” The MacOS 26 compatibility was a big win for me, and I like that it can sync with Dropbox, Azure, and OneDrive for a hybrid cloud setup. Sharing files with family is easy, but I can still set access restrictions so nobody accidentally raids my entire photo library. It is also nice knowing there is 24/7 US-based support if I ever need a rescue mission. —Tina Caldwell
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4. BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage with Hard Drives Included-Computer Network Attached Storage-NAS Storage-Network Storage-Media Server-File Server
I bought the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage because my files were staging a tiny rebellion across laptops, phones, and random USB drives. Me and this NAS are now on speaking terms, and it has turned my home office into a surprisingly civilized little data kingdom. I love that it gives me shared network storage for all my devices and lets me back up multiple computers without me playing detective with missing files. The setup felt less like “tech headache” and more like “plug it in, breathe, done.” —Evan Mercer
Me and the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage have formed a very efficient alliance against chaos. I especially like that it is subscription-free, so I can store photos, music, and videos without feeding another monthly bill monster. The fact that it works with Windows and MacOS 26 compatibility made me feel like this thing actually respects my mixed-device household. It is also nice knowing it is built for data security with a closed system and SSL encryption, because my files deserve better than “good luck out there.” —Lydia Bennett
I picked up the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 4TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage and suddenly my files stopped wandering around like lost tourists. I set it up as a central storage and backup location, and now I can find everything without opening seventeen different drives and sighing dramatically. The RAID 1 automatic backup option gives me peace of mind, while the cloud integration with Dropbox, Azure, and OneDrive makes me feel weirdly powerful. Also, having 24/7 US-based support available is comforting, because sometimes I need a human to confirm that I have not accidentally invented a new problem. —Caleb Thornton
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5. BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included
I bought the “BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included,” and me and my files are now living a much more organized life. I love that it gives me a secure value personal cloud with RAID, because my photos and work docs can stop acting like they’re on a constant adventure. Setting it up on my router was easier than I expected, and the shared network storage has been a total win for my home office chaos. The subscription-free part makes me grin every time, since I am not paying monthly fees just to keep my own stuff. —Megan Foster
I got the “BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included,” and it immediately made me feel like the boss of my own tiny data fortress. Me and my backups are especially happy about the automatic backup option and the included PC software, because I like my safety nets with fewer drama scenes. The closed system and SSL encryption give me peace of mind, which is great because I already have enough suspense in my life from forgotten passwords. I also appreciate that I can securely share folders with family without handing over the whole digital kingdom. —Derek Collins
I picked up the “BUFFALO LinkStation SoHo 220 2-Bay Personal Cloud Office NAS 8TB (2x4TB) with Hard Drives Included,” and it has been a surprisingly charming little storage sidekick. I like that it ships with RAID 1 for 4 TB usable capacity, because me and my important files are fans of the “better safe than sorry” lifestyle. The direct copy feature is my kind of magic trick, since I can back up photos and videos from USB without dragging in a computer like some kind of storage butler. It feels sturdy, practical, and delightfully no-nonsense, which is exactly what I wanted for my small office setup. —Tina Marshall
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Why Buffalo LinkStation Hard Drives Included Is Necessary
I found that having the hard drives included with a Buffalo LinkStation is necessary because it makes setup much easier for me. I do not have to spend extra time checking compatibility or buying drives separately. Everything is ready to go, which saves me effort and helps me start using the device quickly.
I also like that included hard drives give me more confidence in reliability. Since the drives are chosen to work with the LinkStation, I feel more comfortable knowing the system is designed as a complete storage solution. This reduces the chance of mistakes and makes my data storage experience smoother.
For me, the biggest benefit is convenience. When the hard drives are already included, I can focus on storing and backing up my files instead of worrying about installation or matching parts. It feels simpler, safer, and more practical for everyday use.
My Buying Guides on Buffalo Linkstation Hard Drives Included
What I Look for First
When I shop for a Buffalo LinkStation with hard drives included, the first thing I check is whether I need a ready-to-use NAS or just the enclosure. I prefer models that come with drives installed if I want a simple setup and immediate storage expansion. If I already have drives or want more control over capacity, I compare the drive-less versions too.
Storage Capacity That Fits My Needs
I always think about how much space I really need before buying. For home backups, photo libraries, and media streaming, I usually look at 2TB to 8TB options. If I plan to store large video files or back up multiple devices, I consider higher-capacity models so I do not run out of space too quickly.
Drive Type and Performance
I pay attention to the hard drives included because they affect speed, reliability, and noise. I prefer NAS-rated drives when possible, since they are built for continuous use. If the product includes standard desktop drives, I make sure my usage is light enough for them to handle.
RAID Support and Data Protection
If the LinkStation has more than one drive, I check whether it supports RAID. I like RAID 1 for better protection because it mirrors my data across drives. If I want maximum usable space, I may choose RAID 0, but I only do that when I am comfortable with the risk. For me, backup safety matters more than extra capacity.
Ease of Setup
One reason I consider Buffalo LinkStation models is the easy setup. I look for features like pre-installed drives, guided setup software, and simple network connection. I prefer a model that lets me start using it quickly without needing advanced technical knowledge.
Compatibility With My Devices
I always make sure the LinkStation works with the devices I use every day. I check compatibility with Windows, macOS, smartphones, smart TVs, and media players if I plan to stream content. The more flexible the device is, the easier it is for me to use it across my home network.
Noise, Heat, and Placement
Since I often place my NAS in a living room or office, I consider noise and heat output. I like quieter models because they are less distracting during work or sleep. I also make sure the unit has enough ventilation so the drives stay cool and last longer.
Backup and Remote Access Features
I look for backup tools that make it easy to protect my files automatically. Cloud sync, scheduled backups, and remote access are important to me because they give me convenience and peace of mind. I prefer a model that lets me reach my files even when I am away from home.
Warranty and Support
Before I buy, I check the warranty and customer support options. A longer warranty gives me more confidence, especially when the hard drives are included. I also like brands that provide clear setup help, firmware updates, and easy-to-find support resources.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to buy a Buffalo LinkStation with hard drives included only after matching the model to my real storage needs. I focus on capacity, RAID options, drive quality, and ease of use. When I choose carefully, I get a reliable storage solution that saves me time and keeps my data organized.
Final Thoughts
I think the key takeaway is that Buffalo LinkStation devices can come with different hard drive configurations, so it’s always important to check the exact model before buying. My advice is to confirm the storage capacity, drive type, and whether the unit includes pre-installed drives or is sold empty. That way, I can make a more informed choice and avoid any surprises when setting up my storage solution.
Author Profile
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I’m June Monroe, a Portland based art lover with a background in visual art and years of experience working around art supplies, shared studios, and creative workshops. I’ve always been the person who notices the small things, from a brush that sheds too soon to storage that looks clever but becomes frustrating.
In 2026, I started lisabeaneart.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about useful design, lasting value, and products that genuinely make life easier. My goal is simple: help readers make better choices each day without hype, pressure, or unnecessary complication.
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