Morefine N1 NAS Blends High-Performance Computing with Storage

Morefine has entered the network-attached storage market with a distinctive approach: the N1 NAS doubles as a high-performance computing platform. Available now for $759 and up, this system targets users who need both substantial storage capacity and computing power in a single device.

The N1 starts with AMD's Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS Hawk Point processor, a 28-54W chip that provides a solid foundation for both storage management and compute-intensive tasks. What sets this NAS apart is its support for up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 ECC memory, dual 10 GbE LAN ports, and perhaps most notably, a PCIe 4.0 x16 connector that can accommodate a desktop graphics card.

Storage Capabilities

Storage is where the N1 truly shines. The system features four bays for 3.5-inch hard drives and three M.2 2280 slots for PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs. This configuration allows for up to 132TB of total storage capacity when fully loaded. The internal architecture includes two SODIMM slots for memory expansion and supports ECC memory for enhanced data integrity.

GPU Integration

The inclusion of a PCIe slot capable of supporting desktop graphics cards is particularly noteworthy for a NAS device. Morefine positions this as an "All-in-one AI system," enabling local processing of large language models and other AI workloads. However, the implementation comes with some limitations: graphics cards are restricted to 330mm (13 inches) in length, 66mm (2.6 inches) in width, and have a 400-watt power budget. Additionally, while the slot is x16, cards will be limited to using 8 PCIe 4.0 lanes.

This GPU support opens up interesting use cases beyond traditional NAS functionality. Users could potentially run AI inference tasks, video transcoding, or even use the system as a gaming machine with sufficient storage for a substantial game library.

Connectivity and Display

The N1 offers comprehensive connectivity options:

• 1 x USB4 Type-C (40 Gbps)
• 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10 Gbps)
• 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (5 Gbps)
• 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A
• 1 x HDMI 2.0
• 2 x 10 GbE LAN
• 1 x SD card reader (UHS-II)

The front of the system features a 3-inch, 170 x 560 pixel touchscreen display that can show system status and other information, adding a user-friendly element to what is typically a headless device.

Power and Pricing

Powering this versatile system is an 800W power supply, which must accommodate the GPU, processor, and up to seven storage devices simultaneously. The N1 comes in several configurations:

• Barebones model: $759 (Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS, no memory or storage)
• With 32GB RAM and 512GB SSD: $1,209
• With 64GB RAM and 512GB SSD: $1,529
• With 96GB RAM and 512GB SSD: $1,929

Market Positioning

Morefine's approach represents an interesting hybrid between traditional NAS devices and small-form-factor PCs. By combining robust storage capabilities with high-performance computing features, the N1 targets users who want a single device that can handle both data storage and demanding computational tasks.

The system's ability to run AI workloads locally, support gaming, and provide extensive storage in a relatively compact 218 x 193 x 372mm (8.6" x 7.6" x 14.6") aluminum chassis makes it a versatile option for home labs, small businesses, or enthusiasts who need both storage and processing power.

However, potential buyers should consider whether they truly need this level of integration. Traditional NAS devices often focus on reliability, energy efficiency, and specialized storage features, while the N1 trades some of those aspects for raw computing power and versatility.

For users who regularly work with large datasets, run AI models, or need a centralized system that can handle multiple roles, the Morefine N1 presents an intriguing option that blurs the lines between storage device and desktop computer.