ASUS ROG STRIX Arion ESD-S1C
Rating
Product Overview
The ASUS ROG STRIX Arion is a portable M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure designed for high-speed data transfer. It supports M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs with 2230/2242/2260/2280 form factors and connects via USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, offering speeds up to 10 Gbps. The aluminum alloy case with thermal pads ensures effective heat dissipation, while the tool-free design allows for easy SSD installation. It includes both USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables for broad compatibility. The enclosure also features ASUS Aura Sync RGB lighting for customized aesthetics and comes with a protective bumper and R-hook for portability.
Product Images
Product Specifications
Size & Weight
Features
A function that allows M.2 NVMe SSD installation and removal without any tools. You can easily install or replace the SSD without needing screwdrivers or other tools. Convenient for quickly upgrading storage or swapping SSDs.
The tool-free installation simplifies the process of installing or replacing an SSD, saving time and effort. The push-pin design and thumbscrew locking mechanism make it very convenient for users who frequently swap SSDs.
A function that incorporates a heat sink or radiating fins on the enclosure exterior to improve heat dissipation efficiency. The SSD's heat can be effectively released, preventing performance degradation due to high temperatures. Enables stable and sustained high-speed data transfer.
The aluminum alloy case and thermal pads effectively dissipate heat, preventing performance degradation due to thermal throttling and ensuring stable, sustained performance. This is crucial for maintaining high transfer speeds during prolonged use.
A function that prevents data from being written to the SSD. Protects your data from accidental deletion or overwriting. Useful for safely viewing or sharing important data without the risk of modification.
This enclosure does not have a write protection function. Therefore, it is not possible to prevent data from being written to the SSD, which may be a concern for users handling sensitive data that should not be modified.
A function supporting the USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP) for faster data transfer speeds. When connected to a UASP-compatible USB port, data transfer speeds are significantly increased compared to conventional USB connections. Reduces transfer times for large files or backups.
Supporting UASP significantly increases data transfer speeds when connected to a UASP-compatible USB port, speeding up large file transfers and backups. This ensures that users can take full advantage of the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface.
A function that displays the enclosure's operating status with an LED indicator. You can easily check whether the SSD is properly connected and transferring data. Allows for quick troubleshooting of connection issues.
This enclosure does not have an LED indicator function. Therefore, it is not possible to visually confirm the enclosure's operating status or troubleshoot connection issues quickly, which may be inconvenient for some users.
A function that supports different M.2 NVMe SSD sizes (e.g., 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280). You can use various sized SSDs with a single enclosure. Provides flexibility when upgrading or repurposing existing SSDs.
Supporting multiple M.2 SSD sizes (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280) provides flexibility when upgrading or repurposing existing SSDs, making it a versatile choice for users with different storage needs and SSD form factors.
SHOPSTAFF Rating Score
The ASUS ROG Strix Arion is a stylish and well-built enclosure, but its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface limits its transfer speeds compared to Thunderbolt enclosures. It's suitable for users needing fast external storage without the Thunderbolt premium. Expect good durability due to the aluminum build.
Brand & Manufacturer Details
Key Highlights
- Stylish design with RGB lighting
- Effective heat dissipation
- Tool-free installation
- Good portability with included accessories
Considerations
- Ensure compatibility with NVMe SSDs only (no SATA support).
- The pin key for unlocking the cover is small and easily misplaced.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds are limited compared to Thunderbolt.
Recommended For
- Gamers
- Content creators
- Professionals needing fast external storage
- Users who value aesthetics
Not Recommended For
- Users with SATA SSDs
- Users needing the absolute fastest transfer speeds
- none in particular
Suitable For
- External storage for gaming consoles
- Fast backups
- Transferring large files
- On-the-go storage
Not Suitable For
- Archiving infrequently accessed data
- none in particular
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.Is the ASUS ROG STRIX Arion compatible with my gaming console?
Q.What type of SSDs are compatible with the ROG STRIX Arion?
Q.Does the enclosure help with cooling the SSD?
Q.Is the installation process complicated?
Q.Can I use this enclosure with my Apple devices?
Q.What are the transfer speeds I can expect from this enclosure?
Q.Is the enclosure durable for travel?
Q.Does this enclosure support RGB lighting?
Q.What is the difference between an external SSD and an SSD enclosure?
SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking
40Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure with cooling fan, compatible with Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3.2/3.0/2.0.
| Supported SSD Type | NVMe | Supported SSD Size | 2280/2260/2242/2230 |
| Interface | Thunderbolt | Data Transfer Rate | 4.25 Gbps |
| Material | Aluminum | Cooling Solution | Cooling Fan |
| UASP Support | - | Trim Support | - |
| Power Source | - | Dimensions | - mm |
40Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure compatible with Thunderbolt 4/3 USB4, tool-free installation, supports 2280/2260/2242/2230 SSD.
| Supported SSD Type | NVMe | Supported SSD Size | 2280/2260/2242/2230 |
| Interface | Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 | Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbps |
| Material | Aluminum | Cooling Solution | Heatsink |
| UASP Support | Yes | Trim Support | Yes |
| Power Source | USB bus-powered | Dimensions | - mm |
40Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure compatible with Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB, supporting multiple SSD sizes.
| Supported SSD Type | NVMe | Supported SSD Size | 2280/2260/2242/2230 |
| Interface | Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 | Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbps |
| Material | Aluminum | Cooling Solution | - |
| UASP Support | Yes | Trim Support | - |
| Power Source | USB bus-powered | Dimensions | - mm |
Aluminum alloy M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C for up to 10 Gbps transfer speeds.
| Supported SSD Type | NVMe | Supported SSD Size | 2280/2260/2242/2230 |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | Data Transfer Rate | 10 Gbps |
| Material | Aluminum Alloy | Cooling Solution | Thermal Pads |
| UASP Support | Yes | Trim Support | - |
| Power Source | USB bus-powered | Dimensions | 7.1 x 3.8 x 1.6 inches mm |
40Gbps USB4 NVMe PCIe SSD Enclosure with aluminum alloy body, dual-sided perforated design, and built-in fan.
| Supported SSD Type | NVMe | Supported SSD Size | 2280 |
| Interface | USB4 | Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbps |
| Material | Aluminum | Cooling Solution | Heatsink & Fan |
| UASP Support | Yes | Trim Support | Yes |
| Power Source | USB bus-powered | Dimensions | 119.38 x 50.8 x 17.78 mm |
