I am currently in need of some sort of backup storage for the files I have across the network, and as such have come upon a dilemma. Do I buy the Drobo or build my own Server and use the OS from Lime Technology.

Lets start with storage space using only 1TB disks:

Drobo: 2.7 TB Available for data (4 Disks)

MD1510: 15 TB Available (16 Disks)

Filesystem Support:

Drobo: NTFS. HFS+, FAT32, EXT3

MD1510: ReiserFS

Network Ready

Drobo: Yes (with DroboShare)

MD1510: Yes

Cost of Unit Only:

Drobo + DroboShare: $629.00 (Newegg)

MD1510: $1249.00

Ease of Use:

Drobo: Easy (Very)

MD1510: To upgrade a disk or add/replace storage requires a power cycle.

How much Data to I have to move?:

Media Center: 1,563 GB ~ 1.5 TB

Drobo: 1.2 TB Available

MD1510: 13.5 TB Available

Startup Cost:

Drobo + DroboShare + 3 Disks: $629 + $120  x 3 = $989.00

MD1510 + 3 Disks: $1249 + $120 x 3 = $1609.00

Now, Am I willing to spend $700.00 extra at the start for more space down the road. This is what I would like to ask you guys.