Most NAS-specific cases (Synology, QNAP, TerraMaster) use for the mainboard and M4 for drive backplanes. Generic “PC standoff kits” often lack M4, so check your chassis manual. Ease of Installation This is where things get fiddly.
Worse: A missing standoff under a critical power plane can cause intermittent shorts. I’ve seen a 6-drive RAIDZ2 go poof because the builder used nylon standoffs everywhere, breaking the ground path. nas standoffs
One pro tip: Thread a spare screw into the standoff before installing it into the case. This gives you leverage and prevents over-tightening. A NAS runs 24/7. Vibration from hard drives can loosen cheap standoffs over months. Loose standoffs = floating motherboard = random crashes or USB dropouts. Worse: A missing standoff under a critical power
Do not use the mystery bag that came with your $20 Chinese case. Invest $10–15 in a known brass kit from a brand like StarTech, SilverStone, or even a reputable Amazon seller (check reviews for “M4” mentions). Buy a proper 5.5mm hex driver – your fingers will thank you. This gives you leverage and prevents over-tightening