SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
5.0Editor score
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
12Gb/s SAS transfer rate
Includes IT Mode firmware
In this guide
Expanding your network attached storage requires reliable hardware to handle multiple drives efficiently. An Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion provides the necessary connectivity to manage large arrays without software overhead. Choosing the right controller ensures stable performance and future scalability for your data center.
We evaluated ten popular controllers based on compatibility, port count, and firmware modes. Each product was analyzed for its ability to support ZFS and other file systems natively. Our list covers options ranging from budget-friendly 8-port cards to high-density 16-port solutions for advanced users.
Each pick highlights specific strengths like IT mode flashing, cable inclusion, and PCIe interface speed. Prices vary based on features and included accessories so verify current listings before buying. We focus on factual specifications to help you make an informed decision for your storage build.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
4.5Editor score
2x Mini-SAS HD connectors
Direct attach up to 8 drives
Includes SATA breakout cables
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
4.4Editor score
StorageTekPro flashed firmware
ZFS and FreeNAS ready
Professional grade reliability
Top 10 Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten controllers to help you quickly identify the best fit for your specific storage requirements and port needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
2x SFF-8643 Ports
Includes SATA Cables
4.5Editor score
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
2x SFF-8643 Ports
D3307 Compatibility
5.0Editor score
Best Premium
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
Supports 9211-8i
Includes SATA Cables
4.2Editor score
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
16 Ports Available
12Gb/s SAS Speed
P16 IT Mode
4.0Editor score
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
PCIe 2.0 x8
6Gb/s SAS Speed
P20 IT Mode
Full Height Bracket
4.6Editor score
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8
16 Ports Available
RAID Support Included
Management Suite
3.9Editor score
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
D3307 Compatibility
Non-RAID Firmware
4.4Editor score
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
Includes SAS Cables
9207 Compatibility
4.6Editor score
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
StorageTekPro Firmware
ZFS Ready
4.4Editor score
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode, 8-Port, SAS3008 PCIe 3.0 x8, 2X SFF-8643 Breakout Cables, HBA Controller for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID NAS
PCIe 3.0 x8
12Gb/s SAS Speed
Breakout Cables Included
Server Grade Build
4.5Editor score
1. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i – Best Overall for Most Users
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Data Rate
2x Mini-SAS HD Ports
Includes SATA Breakout
This controller offers a solid balance of performance and ease of use for home lab and NAS environments. It supports ZFS and FreeNAS natively in IT Mode which is crucial for software RAID setups. The inclusion of SATA breakout cables makes initial setup significantly easier for most users.
Pros
- Includes SATA breakout cables
- Wide OS compatibility
- High transfer speeds
- Direct attach support
- Easy installation
Cons
- Requires SAS cables for SAS drives
- No external connectors
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It features a Broadcom SAS3008 controller capable of 12Gb/s transfer rates ensuring fast data throughput. The PCIe 3.0 x8 interface provides ample bandwidth for multiple drives without bottlenecking. Internal connectors are standard Mini-SAS HD allowing for easy cable management within server chassis.
The cables included are SATA only so SAS drive users must purchase separate breakout cables. This is a minor inconvenience but ensures flexibility for different drive types. The card does not support external ports which limits scalability beyond internal drive bays.
Anyone building a ZFS or TrueNAS system will find this card reliable and straightforward. It is recommended for those needing eight internal ports with minimal configuration hassles. The value proposition is strong given the included accessories and proven compatibility.
Ideal for Software RAID
IT Mode allows the OS to see physical drives directly enabling ZFS to manage redundancy without controller interference.
High-Speed Connectivity
The 12Gb/s SAS rate ensures that even with multiple high capacity drives you get maximum throughput performance.
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2. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i – Best Budget Option
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Data Rate
D3307 Controller Support
Compact Design
This card stands out as the most budget-friendly option while still delivering top-tier performance metrics. Users report a perfect rating likely due to its reliability and compatibility with major NAS software platforms. It is an excellent choice for those who already have cables or prefer sourcing them separately.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Perfectly compatible
- High reliability rating
- Supports 12Gb/s SAS
- Clean installation
Cons
- No cables included
- Basic packaging
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It utilizes the same robust SAS3008 controller found in more expensive models ensuring no compromise on speed. The PCIe 3.0 x8 interface matches modern motherboards for stable data transmission. Support for the D3307 chipset adds versatility for users repurposing hardware.
The lack of included cables means you must budget for breakout kits separately. However the low base price often offsets this cost compared to bundled options. The form factor is standard allowing it to fit in most full height server cases.
Buy this if you want the highest performance per dollar without extra accessories. It is best for users who have existing SAS cables or prefer to buy higher quality cables separately. The perfect rating suggests a hassle-free experience out of the box.
Value Driven Choice
For users on a tight budget this card delivers enterprise level speeds without the premium price tag.
Reliable Performance
Consistent compatibility with ZFS and TrueNAS ensures your storage array runs smoothly without driver issues.
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3. LSI SAS 9300-8i – Best Premium Flashed Card
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
StorageTekPro Firmware
ZFS Specific Ready
12Gb/s SAS Speed
This card is tailored for users who demand professional grade reliability from their storage controllers. StorageTekPro flashing ensures the firmware is correctly prepared for ZFS environments right out of the box. It removes the guesswork of DIY flashing which can be risky for beginners.
Pros
- Professional firmware flashing
- ZFS optimized
- Broadcom chipset
- Stable IT Mode
- High reliability
Cons
- Higher price point
- No cables included
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The performance matches other 9300-8i cards with full 12Gb/s capabilities via PCIe 3.0 x8. It is fully compatible with FreeNAS unRAID and other popular storage operating systems. The build quality reflects its enterprise heritage ensuring longevity in continuous operation environments.
The higher price reflects the pre-flashed service and professional testing involved. You will need to purchase breakout cables separately which adds to the total cost. However for a production system the assurance of correct firmware is often worth the extra expense.
Choose this if you need a guaranteed setup for a critical NAS build without technical risks. It is ideal for small businesses or power users who want to avoid firmware issues. The professional touch adds significant value for those prioritizing stability over price.
Professional Grade Flashing
StorageTekPro ensures the IT Mode firmware is applied correctly reducing the risk of boot failures or compatibility issues.
Enterprise Reliability
Built on enterprise hardware this card handles continuous workloads better than consumer grade alternatives.
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4. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i – Best Dual Compatibility Option
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Speed
SATA Cables Included
9211 Compatible
This adapter card supports both the newer 9300-8i and legacy 9211-8i controllers making it versatile. It includes SATA breakout cables which is convenient for most home users using SATA drives. The dual compatibility allows users to upgrade older hardware without replacing their cables.
Pros
- Dual controller support
- Includes SATA cables
- Fast transfer rates
- Easy to find
- Good value
Cons
- Cables only for SATA
- Moderate reviews
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It delivers 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensuring future proofing for larger arrays. The PCIe 3.0 x8 interface provides sufficient bandwidth for high performance computing tasks. Setup is straightforward as the card comes pre-configured for IT Mode operation.
The cables provided are SATA only meaning SAS drives need different adapters. Some users have noted average ratings likely due to compatibility nuances with specific motherboard BIOS. It is important to verify your motherboard PCIe slot before purchasing.
Buy this if you have a mix of old and new drives or want spare cables. It is a solid mid-range option for expanding storage without breaking the bank. Just ensure you are comfortable sourcing SAS cables if you plan to use SAS drives later.
Versatile Hardware Support
Compatibility with two major controller generations gives you flexibility in building or upgrading your storage array.
Included Accessories
Having breakout cables included saves time and ensures you can connect drives immediately upon installation.
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5. LSI 9300-16i – Best High-Density Solution
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
16 Ports Total
12Gb/s SAS Speed
P16 IT Mode
This card is designed for users who need to connect up to sixteen drives on a single controller. It uses the same powerful SAS3008 architecture but doubles the port count for massive arrays. This makes it ideal for homelabs requiring large volumes of storage space.
Pros
- 16 drive capacity
- High bandwidth
- Enterprise grade
- IT Mode ready
- Expandable
Cons
- High power draw
- Requires more cables
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It supports full 12Gb/s SAS speeds per port ensuring no bottlenecks even with high density arrays. The P16 IT Mode firmware is compatible with ZFS and other open source storage systems. It allows direct disk passthrough for maximum reliability and performance.
You will need additional PCIe slots for expansion cards if you exceed the native port count. Power consumption may be higher than 8-port cards so check your power supply requirements. The price reflects the higher port count but you must buy cables separately.
Choose this if you need maximum drive density without using expanders immediately. It is perfect for advanced users building large NAS systems or storage servers. The capacity to handle sixteen drives directly simplifies cabling for medium scale setups.
Massive Storage Capacity
With sixteen native ports you can connect a large number of drives without needing external expander hardware.
Enterprise Performance
The enterprise level design ensures reliability when running multiple heavy duty storage applications simultaneously.
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6. Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i – Best Legacy Support
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
PCIe 2.0 x8 Interface
6Gb/s SAS Speed
P20 IT Mode
Full Height Bracket
This card uses the proven 9211-8i chipset which is widely known for stability in the community. It is flashed to P20 IT Mode ensuring it works immediately with FreeNAS and ZFS systems. The full height bracket makes installation in standard cases straightforward and secure.
Pros
- Proven reliability
- Compatible with older PCs
- ZFS optimized
- Affordable
- Includes bracket
Cons
- Older PCIe standard
- Lower speed
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While it offers 6Gb/s SAS speeds which is slower than newer models it is sufficient for most spinning drives. The PCIe 2.0 interface is compatible with older motherboards that might not support PCIe 3.0. This makes it an ideal choice for repurposing older hardware for NAS tasks.
It lacks the raw throughput of 12Gb/s cards but reliability often outweighs speed in backup systems. You will need to source your own cables as none are included in the box. The price is competitive for a flashed card that requires no user intervention.
Buy this if you have an older server or prioritize rock solid stability over maximum speed. It is great for archival storage or media servers where 6Gb/s is ample. The reputation of this controller model makes it a safe choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Established Stability
The 9211-8i model has a long track record of reliability in home and enterprise storage environments.
Legacy Compatibility
Support for older PCIe 2.0 slots allows you to use high performance storage controllers in older systems.
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7. Highpoint RocketRAID 2840C – Best with Hardware RAID Features
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
16 Ports Available
Hardware RAID Support
Full OS Management
This controller offers hardware RAID capabilities which is unique compared to most IT Mode HBA cards. It supports RAID levels like 0 1 and 5 providing on-board redundancy options. The 16-port capacity allows for extensive storage expansion in a single slot.
Pros
- Hardware RAID levels
- 16 port capacity
- Cross OS support
- Management suite
- High connectivity
Cons
- Higher price
- Software dependency
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It works across Windows macOS and Linux with a comprehensive management suite for monitoring. The 6Gb/s SAS speed is standard for SATA drives and sufficient for many workloads. Users appreciate the ability to configure arrays via hardware rather than software.
It is more expensive than standard HBA cards and might limit some ZFS features depending on configuration. The management suite adds utility but requires installation on the host system. Some users report mixed reviews on long term stability compared to LSI chips.
Choose this if you need hardware RAID features and cross platform compatibility. It is suitable for users who prefer hardware redundancy over software managed pools. Ensure your workflow benefits from hardware RAID before investing in this specific feature set.
Hardware Redundancy
Built-in RAID support allows for data protection directly on the card without relying on software solutions.
Management Tools
The included management suite provides visual tools to monitor drive health and array status across different OSes.
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8. HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i – Best for Simplified Setup
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Speed
D3307 Compatible
Simple Design
This card is designed to be a plug and play solution for expanding storage. It matches the specs of other 9300-8i cards but focuses on simplicity. The high rating suggests that users find it reliable for ZFS and TrueNAS builds without issues.
Pros
- High rating
- Compatible with major OS
- Fast throughput
- Easy install
- Compact
Cons
- No cables included
- Basic box
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It uses the D3307/LSI chipset which is proven in the community for low latency. The PCIe 3.0 interface ensures you get full bandwidth for data transfers. It fits into standard slots and requires no special drivers on most modern operating systems.
Like other models it does not include cables so you must source them separately. The simplicity of the card makes it a great choice for those who want minimal setup. You get the performance you need without unnecessary features or bulk.
Buy this if you want a clean reliable card for your NAS build. It is perfect for users who already have cables or prefer buying premium aftermarket ones. The high user satisfaction rating indicates a trouble free experience for most buyers.
Streamlined Design
The focus on core functionality ensures that the card performs its job efficiently without unnecessary complexity.
Proven Chipset
Using a D3307/LSI chipset means you benefit from enterprise quality hardware that is well documented.
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9. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 – Best with SAS Cables
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Speed
SAS Cables Included
9207 Compatible
This card stands out because it includes cables specifically for SAS drives which are less common. It supports both 9207 and 9300-8i architectures offering broad compatibility for users. The high rating reflects satisfaction with the included accessories and overall performance.
Pros
- SAS cables included
- High compatibility
- Fast transfer
- ZFS ready
- Good rating
Cons
- SATA drives need adapters
- Higher cost
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It delivers 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensuring that you maximize the throughput of enterprise drives. The IT Mode firmware allows it to work seamlessly with ZFS and unRAID systems. You can connect SAS drives directly without needing additional breakout cables.
If you only have SATA drives you will need separate adapters since the included cables are SAS only. The price is higher due to the included cables but can save money compared to buying them separately. It is a great choice for those with SAS enterprise drives.
Choose this if you have SAS drives and want to avoid buying cables separately. It is ideal for users who value convenience and high performance in one package. Ensure your drives are SAS before purchase to make use of the included accessories.
Included SAS Connectivity
Having SAS cables included simplifies the process for users with enterprise class hard drives.
Dual Architecture Support
Support for both 9207 and 9300-8i gives flexibility to adapt to different hardware configurations.
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10. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i – Best All-In-One Kit
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode, 8-Port, SAS3008 PCIe 3.0 x8, 2X SFF-8643 Breakout Cables, HBA Controller for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID NAS
PCIe 3.0 x8 Interface
12Gb/s SAS Speed
Breakout Cables Included
Enterprise Grade
This product offers a complete kit with breakout cables included which is convenient for most users. It targets the ZFS and TrueNAS market ensuring compatibility right out of the box. The enterprise grade build quality suggests it can handle continuous operation well.
Pros
- Includes breakout cables
- Server grade quality
- ZFS compatible
- High performance
- Great value
Cons
- Standard cables may be short
- Basic packaging
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It uses the SAS3008 controller which delivers 12Gb/s speeds via PCIe 3.0 x8. The included cables support direct attach up to eight drives without needing extra purchases. This simplifies the shopping process and reduces potential compatibility issues with third party cables.
The cables provided may be short for some chassis setups so measure your case first. The price is competitive for a bundle that includes both card and essential cables. It is a balanced choice for those who want everything in one place.
Buy this if you want a hassle free start to your NAS build with all basics covered. It is best for home labs needing immediate connectivity without sourcing additional parts. The bundle value and performance make it a strong contender in the market.
Complete Kit Advantage
Having breakout cables included saves time and ensures you can connect drives immediately.
Performance Ready
The 12Gb/s speed and modern interface ensure your storage array can grow without bottlenecks.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Selecting the right controller requires understanding your drive count OS compatibility and budget. This guide breaks down the key factors to help you make an informed decision for your storage system.
Controller Compatibility
Ensure the card supports your operating system and file system like ZFS or Btrfs. Most HBA cards work well with TrueNAS unRAID and Proxmox but verify specific drivers.
Look for IT Mode firmware to avoid RAID conflicts with software storage managers.
Port Count and Expansion
Count your current drives and plan for future growth before selecting a port count. An 8-port card works for small labs while a 16-port is better for larger arrays.
Consider external expanders if you need more ports than the card provides directly.
Transfer Speeds
Choose a card with transfer speeds matching your drives such as 12Gb/s for modern SAS or SATA SSDs. Slower cards may bottleneck performance during heavy data transfers.
Verify the PCIe generation on your motherboard to match the card for optimal performance.
Included Cables
Check if breakout cables are included as this saves time and money. Most cards include SATA cables but SAS drives may need separate SFF-8643 to SAS cables.
Always confirm cable types before buying to avoid needing additional purchases.
Form Factor
Ensure the card fits your case size which is usually standard height for server builds. Some cases require low profile brackets so verify physical dimensions.
Consider airflow and heat dissipation when placing multiple cards in a chassis.
Budget
Balance cost with features like firmware flashing and cable inclusion. Higher prices often reflect better support and compatibility assurances.
Set a budget based on your total project needs rather than just the card price.
Firmware Mode
Always ensure the card is in IT Mode for direct disk access to your OS. RAID mode is generally not recommended for ZFS systems.
Verify the firmware version in the product description to avoid DIY flashing risks.
Operating System Support
Confirm the card is supported on your host OS like Linux Windows or VMware. Most modern cards have open drivers but specific features may vary.
Check community forums for user experiences with your specific OS version.
How to Use and Care for Your Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Install the card in an available PCIe slot on your motherboard and secure it with a bracket. Ensure the slot is properly seated to avoid connection issues during operation.
Connect breakout cables from the card to your drives ensuring tight connections. Avoid bending cables sharply to prevent signal degradation over time.
Update firmware regularly to patch security vulnerabilities and improve compatibility. Monitor drive health through your NAS software to detect early signs of failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between HBA and RAID cards?
HBA cards allow direct passthrough of drives to the OS while RAID cards manage arrays on the card. ZFS and similar systems prefer HBA for better control and performance.
Does the card require IT Mode for ZFS?
Yes IT Mode is required for ZFS to see physical disks directly. RAID modes can interfere with ZFS health checks and reliability.
Can I use this card with both SATA and SAS drives?
Most modern controllers support both SATA and SAS drives but you need the correct cables. Ensure your breakout cables match the drive type for proper connection.
Do I need a specific PCIe slot?
These cards typically use PCIe x8 slots but often fit in x16 slots. Verify your motherboard supports the generation like PCIe 3.0 for full speed.
How do I know if my card is flashed correctly?
Check the controller settings in your OS to ensure it reports IT Mode. If it shows RAID mode you may need to flash the firmware manually.
Are included cables enough for most setups?
Most cards include SATA cables which work for standard drives. If you use SAS drives you will likely need to buy separate SAS breakout cables.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
We reviewed ten excellent controllers for NAS expansion ranging from budget options to high-density solutions. Our top pick is the SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i for its balance of speed and usability.
Prioritize compatibility with your OS and file system to avoid performance issues. Ensure the card matches your drive type and slot availability for a smooth setup.
Prices and stock change frequently so verify current listings before buying. We hope this guide helps you build a reliable and high performing storage system.