Build your own NAS bay with the N5 Mini: A 3D-printed data storage solution
As personal data demands increase and DIY tech rises in popularity, customizable home server solutions are more relevant than ever. The N5 Mini NAS enclosure offers an affordable and flexible way to build your own network-attached storage at home — no need to settle for bulky, pricey alternatives. Designed by Jack Harvest and modeled after the compact Minisforum N5, this fully 3D-printable NAS bay accommodates up to five drives, balancing power, style, and space-efficiency. In this guide, we’ll explore why tech tinkerers are turning to the N5 Mini, how it streamlines local data storage, and what makes 3D printing such a compelling avenue for personalization and sustainability.
A modular NAS built for makers
The N5 Mini enclosure is built with creators in mind. It’s compatible with up to five hard drives or SSDs, offering both flexibility and a significant capacity upgrade over typical mini NAS enclosures. The chassis slots are designed for efficient airflow and tool-less drive mounting, making it a practical solution for both home use and small-scale office deployment.
What sets the N5 Mini apart is its compatibility with the hardware layout of the Minisforum N5 mini PC, a quiet but capable fanless system popular with Linux users and media server enthusiasts. Whether you’re creating a Plex library, setting up a personal cloud, or just organizing backups, the N5 Mini offers a surprisingly robust foundation — all within a footprint that fits easily on a desk or shelf.
Why 3D print your own NAS enclosure?
Choosing to 3D print your own NAS enclosure isn’t just a maker’s flex — it’s also smart engineering. Here’s why:
- Design freedom: Want a unique front panel or custom vent layout? Modify the STL files to suit your needs or aesthetics. You control the final look and airflow.
- Budget-friendly: Traditional enclosures for multi-drive NAS builds can cost hundreds of dollars. Printing your own can trim that down dramatically, especially if you already own a 3D printer.
- Environmentally conscious: Opt for biodegradable filaments like PLA or use recycled material spools. Print only what you need, reducing manufacturing waste.
This approach is especially appealing to users tired of overpaying for plastic boxes and limited off-the-shelf SKUs that don’t fit niche setups.
Effortless assembly, powerful storage
The N5 Mini has been engineered for simplicity without sacrificing functionality. Snap-fit parts and label-guided assembly mean you don’t need advanced tools or fabrication skills. Even newcomers to 3D printing can follow community guides to successfully build the enclosure in under a day. The internal layout makes cable routing straightforward, with ample spacing for power connections and drive airflow.
Performance-wise, the Mini can support a variety of drive sizes and types — from 2.5” SSDs to low-power HDDs. Paired with compact motherboards or SBCs like the Raspberry Pi 5 or an Intel NUC alternative, the enclosure becomes versatile enough for experiments in network media streaming, Docker containerization, or RAID configurations using open-source OSes like TrueNAS or Unraid.
Pricing breakdown: DIY vs. prebuilt NAS
| Solution | Estimated Cost | Drive Support | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY N5 Mini (3D printed) | $20–$50 (materials only) | Up to 5 | Full — modifiable STL files |
| Commercial NAS (e.g. Synology DS920+) | $500+ | 4–5 | Minimal |
| Minisforum N5 with USB drives | $400 (PC only) | External USB only | Moderate |
The N5 Mini wins on cost and adaptability, though it requires a bit more front-loaded effort. Still, the cost-saving potential — especially for users who already have drives and a mini PC — is substantial.
Final thoughts
The N5 Mini represents a new chapter in personal data storage: one driven by community engineering, open design, and DIY spirit. By combining the minimalist efficiency of the Minisforum N5 with a fully customizable 3D-printed enclosure, this project empowers users to take data management into their own hands — literally. Whether you’re optimizing your setup for media, backups, or file-sharing, the N5 Mini provides a powerful yet compact chassis at a fraction of the traditional cost. With growing access to 3D printers and filament options, building your own NAS bay has never been more viable — or more rewarding.
For STL files, build guides, and community mods, check out the official project hub. Ready to print? Your custom data haven awaits.
Image by: Fernando Andrade
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