PiStack NAS
Print Profile(2)
Description
Designed with one goal in mind: build the smallest possible 4-bay NAS.
This compact, vertically stacked system is powered by a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B and takes design inspiration from the Xbox Series X to maximize space efficiency and airflow.
Supports up to 4× 2.5” SATA drives via USB 3.0, all powered from a single 12V input with onboard step-down conversion. The vertical layout enables efficient cooling using an 80mm fan, while keeping the footprint minimal.
Fully 3D printable, modular, and built using off-the-shelf components.
Key Specs
* Smallest form factor target for 4× 2.5” drives
* Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB recommended) all the pis can be fitted (Raspberry Pi 1B+, 2B, 3B, 3B+, 4B, and 5) but you have to use low profile heatsink
* USB 3.0 → SATA storage (shared bandwidth)
* Gigabit Ethernet
* 12V DC input + 5V buck converter
* Active cooling (80mm fan ≤25mm thick)
* Magnetic vent cover
* Standard M2/M3 hardware
Use Cases
NAS, Media Server, Backup, Homelab, Self-hosting
Minimum size. Maximum storage density. Full control.
Parts List (BOM)
Core Components
* Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (4GB recommended)
https://rpishop.cz/raspberry-pi-4/1598-raspberry-pi-4-model-b-4gb-ram.html?currency=EUR
* Copper heatsink (4mm, full base cooling)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EwsMUGI
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Storage
* 4× SATA to USB 3.0 adapters (2.5” drives, up to 6Gbps)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EwDeBgS
* 2.5” HDD/SSD (up to 4TB per drive, optional) (example: Western Digital Blue or similar)
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Power System
* 12V 5A power supply (5.5×2.1mm)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EulLgl0
* DC barrel jack (panel mount, DC-022B)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_Exzr9h4
* DC-DC step-down converter (12V → 5V, ≥8A)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_Eyd1Tbo
* USB-C power cable (for Raspberry Pi)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EHUloj8
* SPST rocker switch (ON/OFF, panel mount)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_Ev1bRuK
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Connectivity
* USB 3.0 hub (4-port, compact)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EIH5BEm
* RJ45 Ethernet extension cable (panel mount)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EuB6phy
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Cooling
* 80mm fan (80×80×25mm max height)
https://www.amazon.com/ARCTIC-P8-80-Pressure-Optimised-Noise-Level/dp/B07XL9QJHF
* JST connector cables (for fan wiring)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EzmS3ui
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Mechanical & Assembly
* 6×2 mm magnets (for magnetic vent cover)
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EHyRunG
* Anti-slip pads / rubber feet
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EHeWjCi
* M3 screws (for HDD mounting)
* M2 + M3 screws (general assembly)
* Heat-set inserts (M2 + M3)
* Wires / cables for internal connections
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Printing * PLA or PETG filament
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Notes
* Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB) is sufficient
* Fan height must be ≤25mm
* SATA drives connect via USB (shared bandwidth)
* Basic soldering required
* You have to cut the SATA to USB cables and solder them back to the board again to fit them in the case
Boost Me (for free)
Boost Me if You Like This Project
If you found this build useful, inspiring, or just cool, consider giving it a Boost 🙌
This project took a lot of time to design, test, and refine — from the compact layout to the cooling and modular structure. Every Boost really helps support more builds like this.
If you decide to build one yourself, I’d love to see your version too!
Thanks for your support!
License
You shall not share, sub-license, sell, rent, host, transfer, or distribute in any way the digital or 3D printed versions of this object, nor any other derivative work of this object in its digital or physical format (including - but not limited to - remixes of this object, and hosting on other digital platforms). The objects may not be used without permission in any way whatsoever in which you charge money, or collect fees.
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