SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
5.0Editor score
Compatible with LSI 9300-8i
Supports PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
Flashed IT Mode for non-RAID
In this guide
Choosing the right Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion is essential for building a reliable storage system. These cards allow you to connect multiple drives directly to your server or home lab without relying on onboard SATA ports.
We evaluated ten top-rated HBA cards based on compatibility, speed, and firmware support. Our list covers models from trusted manufacturers that work well with ZFS, TrueNAS, and other popular NAS operating systems.
Each pick highlights key features and ideal use cases for different builders. Prices and availability change frequently so verify details before purchasing to ensure the best value for your specific expansion needs.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
4.6Editor score
Flashed to P20 IT Mode
Supports 8 SAS or SATA lanes
Includes ventilated full height bracket
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
4.0Editor score
Supports 16 direct drive connections
Offers 12Gb/s SAS transfer speeds
Ideal for large scale NAS builds
Top 10 Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side look at the specifications and key attributes of each HBA card. This helps you compare connection types, firmware modes, and compatibility at a glance.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller chip
Supports 8 drives directly
Includes SFF-8643 cables
4.5Editor score
Editor's Choice
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller chip
Supports 8 drives directly
Flashed to IT Mode firmware
5.0Editor score
Best Premium
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
Supports 9211-8i models
Includes SFF-8643 cables
Supports 8 drives directly
4.2Editor score
LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID
16-port connection capability
SAS3008 controller chip
Supports 12Gb/s speeds
Flashed to IT Mode
4.0Editor score
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
SAS 6Gbps transfer rate
Flashed to P20 IT Mode
Includes ventilated bracket
Supports 8 lanes
4.6Editor score
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
16-port connectivity
Supports RAID configurations
Includes management software
3.9Editor score
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
Supports 8 drives directly
Flashed to IT Mode
Compatible with D3307
4.4Editor score
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
Includes SAS breakout cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
Supports 8 drives directly
Flashed to IT Mode
4.6Editor score
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
12Gb/s transfer speeds
Flashed to P16 IT Mode
Supports 8 drives directly
Compatible with ZFS
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 interface
Includes breakout cables
Supports 8 drives directly
Flashed to IT Mode
4.5Editor score
1. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables – Best Overall Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i IT Mode 8-Port with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
SAS IT Mode firmware
Supports 8 drives
This HBA card is an excellent choice for NAS builders looking for reliable expansion. With a 4.5 rating and support for 12Gb/s speeds, it handles demanding workloads well.
Pros
- Reliable performance
- High transfer speeds
- Compatible with ZFS
- Includes cables
- Easy to install
Cons
- SAS cables sold separately
- Full height size
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It uses the LSI 9300-8i chipset which is known for stability. The IT Mode firmware ensures direct disk access for software RAID systems like TrueNAS or ZFS.
The included cables are for SATA drives only so you must buy SAS cables if needed. This is a minor trade-off given the card's strong performance and value.
If you need a solid 8-port solution for home labs or small servers this card is highly recommended. It offers great compatibility and speed for most storage setups.
Direct Disk Access
IT Mode firmware allows the operating system to manage drives directly which is critical for ZFS integrity.
High Bandwidth
The PCIe 3.0 x8 interface provides ample bandwidth for multiple high-speed drives simultaneously.
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2. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller – Best Budget Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i & D3307 IT Mode HBA Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
Flashed IT Mode
Supports 8 drives
This affordable option delivers exceptional value with a perfect 5.0 rating. It supports the same core functionality as higher-priced models making it ideal for budget-conscious builders.
Pros
- High user rating
- Low cost
- Fast data transfer
- ZFS ready
- Compact profile
Cons
- No cables included
- Limited documentation
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It features the SAS3008 controller which supports 12Gb/s speeds. The card is flashed to IT Mode ensuring compatibility with modern NAS operating systems.
While cables are not included this helps keep the price low. You can purchase appropriate breakout cables separately to match your drive type.
For those starting a new NAS build or expanding an existing one this card is a top pick. It balances cost and performance effectively for most needs.
Cost Effective
The low price point allows you to allocate more budget to drives or other server components.
Performance
Despite the low price it maintains high transfer speeds and reliable connectivity.
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3. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables – Best Flexible Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9211-8i & 9300-8i IT Mode with SATA Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
Flashed IT Mode
Supports 8 drives
This card stands out for its compatibility with both the 9211-8i and 9300-8i models. This flexibility is useful for builders who might upgrade their hardware later.
Pros
- Dual model compatibility
- Includes SATA cables
- Fast transfer rates
- Good for ZFS
- Affordable price
Cons
- Mixed user reviews
- SAS cables not included
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It includes two SFF-8643 to SATA cables which helps with immediate setup. The IT Mode firmware ensures it works well with software RAID systems.
Some users note variations in build quality or instructions which affects the rating. However for most users it functions reliably for standard NAS tasks.
If you need a versatile option that covers different LSI generations this is a strong contender. It offers a balance of features and price for home labs.
Hardware Versatility
Compatibility with multiple chip generations gives you more options when integrating into existing systems.
Setup Ease
Included SATA cables simplify the initial connection process for common drive configurations.
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4. LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card with P16 IT Mode for ZFS TrueNAS unRAID – Best Expansion Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
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-port connectivity
12Gb/s SAS speeds
IT Mode firmware
For builders needing to connect more than eight drives this card is a top choice. It offers 16 direct ports allowing for significant storage expansion without extra expanders.
Pros
- High port count
- Great for large arrays
- High transfer speeds
- Enterprise grade
- Flashed to IT Mode
Cons
- Higher cost
- Requires external SAS cables
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The 12Gb/s SAS speed ensures fast data throughput even with many drives active. It is flashed to IT Mode making it suitable for TrueNAS or ZFS environments.
It requires careful planning for power and cable management due to the high port count. This makes it better suited for advanced users or server builds.
If you plan to build a large NAS server this card provides the necessary backbone. Its high port count and speed make it a premium solution for growth.
Massive Capacity
Supporting 16 drives directly lets you build large storage pools without additional hardware.
Speed
With 12Gb/s SAS speeds your data transfers remain fast even under heavy loads.
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5. Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA – Best Legacy Support Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Flashed Original LSI 9211-8i P20 IT Mode for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID 6Gbps SAS HBA
PCIe 2.0 x8 interface
SAS 6Gbps speed
P20 IT Mode firmware
Supports 8 drives
This card is a favorite among users who prefer older stable hardware. It is an original LSI card flashed to P20 IT Mode ensuring consistent performance.
Pros
- Proven reliability
- Flashed out of box
- Good ZFS support
- Ventilated bracket
- Tested firmware
Cons
- Lower PCIe generation
- 6Gbps limit
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It supports 6Gbps SAS and SATA speeds which is sufficient for most mechanical drives. The included ventilated bracket helps with heat dissipation in enclosed cases.
The older PCIe 2.0 interface might limit top speeds for NVMe or future SAS drives. However for standard HDD setups it performs flawlessly with great stability.
For those building a reliable home lab or NAS this card is a trusted option. It combines legacy support with modern firmware for smooth operation.
Stability
The P20 firmware is well tested and known for stability in long-term NAS operations.
Cooling
The ventilated bracket improves airflow which is crucial for maintaining optimal operating temperatures.
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6. Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller – Best Software RAID Option Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Highpoint Technologies RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port 6Gb/s SAS/SATA RAID Controller
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
16-port connectivity
RAID support included
Universal management software
This controller offers a unique combination of hardware RAID features and high port count. It provides a management suite that works across different operating systems.
Pros
- 16 ports
- RAID management suite
- Cross platform support
- Good for Windows
- Flexible configuration
Cons
- Mixed reviews
- RAID hardware overhead
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It supports 16 ports which is useful for large arrays. However it is designed more for RAID configurations than pure IT Mode JBOD setups.
While the hardware RAID is useful for some users it can conflict with ZFS requirements. The mixed reviews suggest variability in reliability or support.
If you need hardware RAID management alongside NAS expansion this card is an option. Just ensure it aligns with your specific OS requirements.
Management Features
The included software allows you to configure and monitor RAID arrays easily from different OS environments.
Port Density
With 16 ports you can connect many drives to a single card for large storage setups.
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7. HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card – Best Simple Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9300-8i/D3307 IT Mode PCIe SATA Expansion Card
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
IT Mode firmware
Supports 8 drives
This card is designed for simplicity and ease of use. It works with common LSI models and is flashed to IT Mode for immediate NAS compatibility.
Pros
- Plug and play
- Reliable chipset
- Good rating
- Simple installation
- Affordable
Cons
- No cables included
- Standard height
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It supports 12Gb/s SAS speeds which ensures fast transfers. The PCIe 3.0 interface provides plenty of bandwidth for eight drives.
As with many cards in this category cables are not included. You will need to source breakout cables separately based on your drive type.
For those who want a straightforward expansion solution this card is ideal. It avoids unnecessary complexity while delivering strong performance.
Ease of Use
The card is pre-flashed so you can install it and start using it immediately.
Compatibility
It works with multiple LSI models providing flexibility for different build scenarios.
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8. SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables – Best Cable Included Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
SAS HBA Card Compatible with LSI 9207 9300-8i IT Mode with SAS Cables
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
Includes SAS cables
Supports 8 drives
One of the main advantages of this card is the inclusion of SAS breakout cables. This saves time and money if you plan to use SAS drives.
Pros
- Includes SAS cables
- Strong performance
- Compatible with ZFS
- Good rating
- Easy setup
Cons
- No SATA cables
- Higher price
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It uses the LSI 9207 and 9300-8i chipsets which are industry standard. The IT Mode firmware ensures it works well with TrueNAS and ZFS.
If you need SATA connections you will need to buy those cables separately. The package is optimized for SAS users primarily.
For buyers who value convenience and include cables this is a great choice. It offers a complete solution for SAS-based NAS systems.
Convenience
Having cables included means you can install the card and connect drives without extra orders.
Performance
The 12Gb/s SAS speeds ensure your drives perform at their maximum capacity.
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9. LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID – Best Flashed Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
LSI SAS 9300-8i 8-Port 12Gb/s HBA Card IT Mode StorageTekPro Flashed for ZFS FreeNAS unRAID
PCIe 3.0 x8 interface
SAS3008 controller
Flashed to P16 IT Mode
Supports 8 drives
This card is known for coming pre-flashed with the correct firmware. This eliminates the risk of users flashing the card incorrectly themselves.
Pros
- Pre-flashed firmware
- Reliable brand
- 12Gb/s speeds
- ZFS optimized
- Good support
Cons
- No cables included
- Higher cost
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It supports 12Gb/s SAS speeds making it fast enough for modern drives. The IT Mode ensures it works perfectly with ZFS and TrueNAS.
The price is slightly higher due to the pre-flashed service. This cost is often worth the convenience and peace of mind.
For those who want a card ready to use out of the box this is a top recommendation. It simplifies the build process significantly.
Pre-configured
The card arrives flashed to P16 IT Mode which is verified for storage systems like TrueNAS.
Reliability
LSI based controllers are renowned for their stability in enterprise and home storage environments.
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10. 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 – Best All-Inclusive Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
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
SAS3008 controller
Includes breakout cables
IT Mode firmware
This option is designed to be all-inclusive with breakout cables included. This makes it a convenient choice for standard NAS expansions.
Pros
- Includes breakout cables
- Strong performance
- ZFS support
- Easy installation
- Good value
Cons
- SATA specific cables
- Full height only
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It uses the SAS3008 controller to deliver 12Gb/s speeds. The IT Mode firmware ensures full compatibility with software RAID systems.
The cables included are for SATA drives so SAS users should check compatibility. This is standard for most consumer level packages.
For those who want a complete package without extra steps this card is excellent. It saves time and money by including necessary cables.
Convenience
The included breakout cables allow you to connect drives immediately without sourcing parts separately.
Speed
The PCIe 3.0 x8 interface ensures there is no bottleneck in data transfer for connected drives.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Selecting the right HBA card requires understanding your needs for port count, speed, and compatibility. This guide covers the main factors to consider before buying.
Controller Chipset
Most reliable cards use LSI or Broadcom SAS controllers like the 3008 or 2011. These chips are widely supported by NAS operating systems and have proven track records.
Look for cards with verified chipset compatibility to ensure smooth driver support and stability.
Firmware Mode
For NAS builds IT Mode is essential. This mode allows the operating system to access disks directly rather than managing them through hardware RAID.
Ensure the card is flashed to IT Mode before purchase to save time and avoid technical hassle.
Port Count
Choose a card with enough ports for your current and future drives. Eight ports are common for smaller builds while sixteen ports suit larger expansions.
Remember you can add expanders later so start with what you need now.
Interface Speed
PCIe 3.0 x8 provides enough bandwidth for most modern SAS and SATA drives. Avoid older PCIe 2.0 cards if you plan to use high-speed SSDs.
Faster interfaces ensure your storage array performs at its maximum potential.
Cable Inclusion
Check if the package includes breakout cables. SATA and SAS cables differ so ensure the included cables match your drive type.
If cables are not included budget for purchasing the correct connectors separately.
Bracket Type
Cards come with low profile or full height brackets. Ensure the bracket type matches your server or PC case to fit properly.
Ventilated brackets help keep the card cool during high-load operations.
Price and Value
Prices vary based on features like pre-flashing and included cables. Balance your budget with the features you actually need.
Sometimes paying slightly more for a pre-flashed card saves time and effort.
Operating System Support
Verify that the card works with your specific NAS OS like TrueNAS or Unraid. Most LSI based cards work well but some require specific steps.
Community feedback can help confirm compatibility before you buy.
How to Use and Care for Your Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
Install the HBA card into an available PCIe slot on your motherboard and secure it with a screw. Ensure the card is firmly seated and the bracket is flush with the case.
Connect your SAS or SATA drives to the card using appropriate breakout cables. Organize the cables neatly to improve airflow and avoid blocking fans.
Power on your system and check if the drives are detected in your BIOS or OS. Update the firmware if needed to ensure compatibility with your NAS software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need RAID mode for a NAS build?
No most NAS systems like ZFS and TrueNAS prefer IT Mode. This lets the OS manage redundancy directly which is more flexible and reliable than hardware RAID.
Can I mix SATA and SAS drives on one card?
Yes the HBA cards support both SATA and SAS drives. You just need the correct breakout cables for each drive type to connect them properly.
Is PCIe 3.0 enough for my NAS?
PCIe 3.0 x8 provides enough bandwidth for most SATA and SAS drives. Unless you have many NVMe drives it should not bottleneck your storage speeds.
How many drives can I connect directly?
Most cards support eight direct connections. For more than eight you can add an external SAS expander to increase capacity further.
Do I need to flash the firmware myself?
Many cards come pre-flashed to IT Mode. If yours does not you may need to flash it using official tools which requires some technical steps.
What happens if the card is not compatible?
Incompatible cards may not be detected or may cause system instability. Always check the product details for confirmed OS support before purchasing.
Can I use this with a home PC?
Yes these cards work with standard home PCs that have PCIe slots. Just ensure your case has space for the bracket and cables.
What warranty do these cards typically have?
Warranty varies by seller and manufacturer. Check the product page for details on return policies and support options.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Hba Card for NAS Drive Expansion
We reviewed ten HBA cards that offer reliable storage expansion for NAS builds. The top picks balance performance features and cost effectively for most users.
Prioritize IT Mode firmware and verified chipset compatibility to ensure smooth operation with your NAS system.
Check current prices and availability as they can vary between sellers and models.