ASUS TUF Gaming A1 External M.2 NVMe SATA PCIe SSD Enclosure ESD-T1A/BLK/G/AS//
Rating
Product Overview
The ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure supports both NVMe PCIe and SATA M.2 SSDs, offering flexibility. It features a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2x1 interface for up to 10 Gbps transfer speeds. The Q-Latch mechanism simplifies SSD installation. Meeting MIL-STD-810H and IP68 standards, it provides drop, water, and dust resistance. Compatible with PCs, laptops, mobile devices, and consoles.
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 Q-Latch design allows for easy, tool-free installation and removal of M.2 SSDs. This simplifies the process of upgrading or swapping drives, saving time and effort. The simple locking mechanism secures the drive without screws, making it very user-friendly.
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.
This enclosure does not feature dedicated external heat dissipation like a heatsink or fan. While the enclosure material may offer some passive cooling, it may not be sufficient for sustained high-speed data transfers, potentially leading to thermal throttling under heavy workloads.
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 lacks a write protection function, meaning there is no built-in mechanism to prevent accidental data deletion or overwriting. Users needing to protect their data from modification should consider software-based write protection solutions.
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.
There is no mention of UASP support in the product information. Without UASP, data transfer speeds may not reach their full potential when connected to a UASP-compatible USB port, potentially increasing transfer times for large files or backups.
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.
The product information does not mention an LED indicator. Without an LED indicator, it may be difficult to visually confirm the enclosure's operating status or troubleshoot connection issues, requiring reliance on system notifications or other methods.
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.
This enclosure supports multiple M.2 SSD sizes (2242, 2260, 2280), providing flexibility when upgrading or repurposing existing SSDs. This allows users to use various sized SSDs, making it a versatile choice for different storage needs and drive availabilities.
SHOPSTAFF Rating Score
The ASUS TUF Gaming A1 is a robust enclosure, offering good transfer speeds and rugged protection. It's a solid choice for users needing a durable and versatile storage solution, though it lacks advanced cooling.
Brand & Manufacturer Details
Key Highlights
- Rugged build quality with MIL-STD-810H and IP68 ratings
- Supports both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs
- Easy SSD installation with Q-Latch
- Wide compatibility with various devices
Considerations
- Ensure proper USB-C cable connection for optimal power and data transfer.
- Be mindful of heat during extended use, as it lacks active cooling.
- Check compatibility with specific M.2 SSD models before purchase.
Recommended For
- Gamers
- Outdoor enthusiasts
- Users needing rugged storage
- Professionals requiring portable storage
Not Recommended For
- Users needing write protection
- Users requiring extreme transfer speeds
- none in particular
Suitable For
- Gaming on the go
- Backing up files in harsh environments
- Transferring large files between devices
- Creating rugged portable storage
Not Suitable For
- Archiving infrequently accessed data
- Environments requiring complete silence
- none in particular
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.Is the ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure truly durable?
Q.How easy is it to install an SSD in the ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure?
Q.Will the ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure improve my data transfer speeds?
Q.Is the ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure compatible with my devices?
Q.Does the ASUS TUF Gaming A1 enclosure have any potential cooling issues?
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 |
