An SSD enclosure holds and powers disk drives while allowing them to communicate back and forth between one or more computers. No matter what data you’re working with, it’s important to choose the right equipment. In this article, we’ll tell you about a few of our favorite SSD enclosures, and we’ll give you some criteria to consider that will help you choose the right one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who typically uses a SSD enclosure?
SSD enclosures are helpful for anybody who wants to make sure their important files and documents are backed up. If you’ve ever experienced a hard drive failure that has led to you losing precious photos and videos or large-scale projects you’ve been working on for some time, this can be an incredibly frustrating experience. Utilizing an SSD enclosure will give you an extra level of protection.
What makes SSD storage different from a traditional hard drive?
SSD drives store data in a similar fashion to a hard drive; however, the major difference is how the items are stored. SSDs use “flash memory,” which is a type of memory similar to RAM. Typically, RAM closes down when the computer is shut off. However, SSD drives will maintain their memory even after the power supply is cut off.
Buying Guide
We’re almost ready to get into the individual items. Before we do so, here are a few more things you should keep in mind while you shop.
- Data Transfer Speeds: How fast will you be able to write data onto your computer? Some SSD enclosures will support data transfer as fast as 10 Gbps (Gigabytes per second).
- Installation: How difficult will it be (or not be) to install your enclosure to your computer or your SSD drive?
- USB Cables: Does your SSD enclosure come with a USB cable? You’ll need one to connect it to your computer.
- Heat Dissipation: When writing data, especially large files, SSD enclosures can get quite hot. This heat is not only dangerous for you, but also for your computer. Make sure you choose an SSD enclosure that is built to withstand these temperatures and can take steps to bring the temperature down.
- Compatibility: What computers will your SSD drive work with? What computer are you buying it for? If you’re purchasing a SSD enclosure to use with your Mac, you’ll want to make sure you’re buying one that is iOS compatible.
- Storage Capacity: How much data can your SSD enclosure hold? We have storage devices on this list that are quite large – some of them can hold several terabytes (a unit equivalent to 1,000 gigabytes) at one time.
- Portability: Will you leave your SSD enclosure in one place, or will you want to pack it away and store it in your computer bag? Some enclosures will be more portable than others.
Plugable SSD Enclosure
Best Overall
10 Gbps Transfer Speeds
This SSD enclosure is easy to install, and doesn’t require any special screws or tools. The aluminum body easily dissipates heat while maximizing performance, and it comes with multiple USB cables (Type-C and 3.0 Type-A).
Why We Love It:
- Extruded fins help provide better heat dissipation
- Plug-and-play compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linus
- Thunderbolt 3 compatible
Something to Consider:
- Not compatible with M.2 SATA SSDs, M.2 PCle AHCI SSDs, or other M.2 PCIe devices
- Host OS must support SSD file system in order to be accessible
Sabrent SSD Enclosure
Best Speed
Steady and Efficient Transfer
You’ll get your data transfer done in hardly any time at all with data transfer speeds that can reach 10 Gbps. This is done by the USB 3.2 ports that are also packard compatible with USB 3.1 and 3.0.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in six capacities (500gb, 1tb, 2tb, 4tb, 8tb, or M.2 enclosure)
- Installs quickly and easily without requiring any tools
- Designed in an ultra-slim aluminum case with ABS frame
- Compatible with both SATA and NVME (sizes 2242/2260/2280), as well as Thunderbolt 3
Something to Consider:
- Requires adapter to run on MacBook
SSK SSD Enclosure
Easiest to Install
No Tools Required
You’ll be able to get this SSD enclosure up and running in no time at all. Once that’s done, you’ll enjoy data transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps and a superior transmission experience. Even if you need to utilize the backwards compatibility with USB 3.1 or 3.0, you’ll still enjoy 5 Gbps transfer speeds.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three different colors
- Designed to be slim, lightweight, and portable
- Aluminum alloy shell provides excellent heat dissipation
- Includes two USB cables (one Type-3 and one Type-A 3.0)
Something to Consider:
- Only fits NVMe SSDs 2242/2260/2280
ASUS SSD Enclosure
Best Dissipation
Thermal Pads for Aggressive Dissipation
The thermal pads sit inside the aluminum alloy case, and work to provide you the best possible experience by pulling heat away from your M2 drives. You’ll also love the RGB lighting features that provide a seemingly endless color spectrum for beautiful visual effects.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in two styles (regular and lite)
- Supports transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps
- Includes one Type-C and one Type-A USB cable
Something to Consider:
- Mounting screw can be a little too tall in some cases
MOKiN SSD Enclosure
Most Versatile
Compatible with Most OS
This SSD enclosure will work with your Mac, Windows, Linus, or Android devices. The aluminum shed, thermal pad, and vent work together to control the device’s temperature and keep all of your hardware safe.
Why We Love It:
- Offers data transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps
- Supports NVMe and SATA with M or B+M Key SSDs
- Includes light blue LED indicator light on device
- Small enough to carry in your pocket
Something to Consider:
- Even with thermal pad and vent, the device can still get pretty hot
