Most NAS owners should choose IDrive when they want a simple online backup app for Synology, QNAP, or similar devices, while Backblaze B2 is better for users who want low-cost object storage and do not mind setting up jobs manually. Backblaze Personal Backup is not the right tool here because it does not back up NAS shares as standard local drives. For NAS backup, the real match is usually IDrive cloud backup vs Backblaze B2 cloud storage.
TLDR: IDrive is the easier pick for a home office or small business that wants scheduled NAS backup, versioning, and a familiar restore process. Backblaze B2 is often cheaper at scale, but it works best when the NAS app, such as Synology Hyper Backup, Cloud Sync, or QNAP HBS 3, is configured correctly. For example, a 4 TB photo archive with 5% monthly change may be simpler on IDrive, while a 20 TB media archive can cost less on B2 if restore traffic stays low. In short, IDrive feels like a backup service; Backblaze B2 feels like storage that needs a backup plan built around it.
Why NAS owners need online backup
A NAS protects files from a dead laptop, a single bad drive, or a messy folder structure. It does not protect data from fire, theft, ransomware, flood, or a power event that hurts the whole device. A remote copy fixes that gap.
The usual rule is the 3 2 1 backup method: three copies of data, on two types of storage, with one copy off site. A NAS may cover the first two parts if it also uses USB backup or snapshots. Online backup covers the off-site part.
Backblaze for NAS: what actually works
Backblaze has two main products that matter here. Backblaze Computer Backup is the simple unlimited backup product for Mac and Windows computers. It is popular, but it is not meant for NAS backup. Network-attached storage is excluded from normal use, which disappoints many buyers after they read the word “unlimited.”
Backblaze B2 is the suitable option for NAS owners. It is object storage, similar in concept to Amazon S3, but usually easier to price and manage. A Synology, QNAP, TrueNAS, or other NAS can send data to B2 through built-in apps or third-party tools.
The catch is that B2 does not behave like a polished consumer backup app by itself. The NAS must handle scheduling, encryption, deduplication, retention, folder selection, and restore jobs. If the NAS app is clumsy, the B2 setup feels clumsy too.
Backblaze B2 strengths
- Good pricing for large archives: It is billed by stored data, so big but stable datasets can be cost friendly.
- S3 compatible support: Many NAS backup tools can connect to it.
- Clear storage model: Users pay for the space used rather than buying a fixed backup plan.
- Useful for media libraries: Photo, video, and project archives often fit B2 well.
Backblaze B2 drawbacks
- More setup work: Bucket settings, keys, encryption choices, and lifecycle rules can confuse non-technical users.
- Restore planning matters: Large downloads can take time, and bandwidth can become the real pain.
- No single backup console: The NAS software owns the backup logic, not Backblaze.
IDrive for NAS: what it offers
IDrive is more of a traditional backup service. It supports many computers under one account and offers cloud backup features that feel familiar. For NAS users, IDrive provides apps and methods for devices such as Synology, QNAP, Asustor, and some business storage systems.
IDrive is often easier for users who want a guided setup. It can back up chosen NAS folders, keep file versions, and restore files without turning the whole process into a storage engineering project. Honestly, it feels like fewer small traps are waiting during setup, especially for a small office with one admin who already has too much to fix.
IDrive strengths
- Simpler NAS backup path: Its tools are built around backup tasks, not just storage buckets.
- Versioning and retention: Older versions can help after accidental deletion or ransomware.
- Multi-device accounts: Computers and NAS devices can often sit under the same plan.
- Physical shipment options: IDrive Express can help with large initial uploads or restores in supported regions.
IDrive drawbacks
- Plan limits: IDrive plans have storage caps. Exceeding them can raise costs.
- Interface quirks: Some NAS apps feel dated compared with native NAS tools.
- Speed varies: Backup and restore rates depend on location, ISP upload speed, file count, and NAS hardware.
Cost comparison: fixed plan vs storage meter
IDrive usually sells backup plans with a set amount of included storage, such as several terabytes. This works well when a NAS holds less than the plan limit. A 3 TB small office share can be predictable because the bill is tied to the plan.
Backblaze B2 uses a metered model. Stored terabytes create a monthly charge, and API calls or downloads may matter depending on usage and current policy. For large archives, this model can be attractive. For a user who restores often, the math needs closer checking.
A rough example helps. If a NAS holds 8 TB and changes by 300 GB per month, IDrive may be cheaper if a discounted high-capacity plan fits. B2 may win if the data grows slowly and restores are rare. If the NAS holds 30 TB, B2 often becomes more appealing because fixed backup plans may not fit cleanly.
Security and ransomware concerns
Both services can support secure backup, but the final result depends on configuration. NAS owners should enable private encryption where possible, protect admin accounts with two-factor authentication, and avoid using one all-powerful access key for every task.
Ransomware is the nasty part. If encrypted files sync instantly to the cloud, the online copy may also become encrypted junk. That is why backup versioning, snapshots, and retention rules matter. A strong setup keeps older clean versions long enough for damage to be found.
Best setup for Synology and QNAP
For Synology, Backblaze B2 can work through tools such as Hyper Backup or Cloud Sync, depending on the backup style required. Hyper Backup is better for versioned backup. Cloud Sync is better for sync, but sync is not the same as backup.
For QNAP, HBS 3 can send jobs to B2-compatible storage and other cloud providers. IDrive also offers NAS-focused tools for supported models. The best setup uses scheduled backup jobs, bandwidth limits during office hours, and email alerts for failed runs.
Which one should a NAS owner choose?
- Choose IDrive when the NAS owner wants an easier backup workflow, bundled device backup, and less manual setup.
- Choose Backblaze B2 when the owner is comfortable with NAS backup apps and wants scalable remote storage.
- Choose IDrive for smaller offices with 1 TB to 10 TB of mixed documents, photos, and workstation backups.
- Choose B2 for larger archives where the NAS software already handles versioning and restores.
The safest answer is practical: IDrive is better for backup convenience. Backblaze B2 is better for storage control and scale. Either service can protect a NAS well if restore tests are done. Skipping restore tests is the mistake that hurts later.
FAQ
Can Backblaze Personal Backup back up a NAS?
No. Backblaze Personal Backup is designed for directly attached drives and computers, not NAS shares. NAS owners usually need Backblaze B2 instead.
Is IDrive easier than Backblaze B2 for NAS backup?
Yes, in most cases. IDrive is built as a backup service, while B2 is cloud storage that relies on the NAS software to manage backup behavior.
Which is cheaper for a NAS?
It depends on data size and restore needs. IDrive can be cheaper when the NAS fits inside a plan. Backblaze B2 can be cheaper for large archives with limited downloads.
Should NAS cloud backup use encryption?
Yes. Private encryption is preferred when available. Account passwords, access keys, and recovery codes should be stored safely outside the NAS.
Is sync enough for NAS protection?
No. Sync can copy deletions and ransomware damage. A real backup should keep versions, retention history, and restore points.
