ASUS ROG Strix Arion White M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure: features and what it fits

The ASUS ROG Strix Arion White Edition is an external enclosure for an M.2 NVMe SSD. It turns a bare drive into a portable one that connects over USB-C, so an SSD from an old laptop or a spare drive can be reused for backups, file transfer or extra storage. The enclosure does not include the SSD itself.

What it fits

ASUS says the Arion fits M.2 PCIe NVM Express SSDs in the 2230, 2242, 2260 and 2280 form factors, in both M-key and B+M-key versions. The numbers describe the drive's width and length in millimetres: a 2280 drive is 22mm wide and 80mm long, which is the most common size for desktops and laptops. The 2230 size is common in handheld consoles and small devices. Because the enclosure is for PCIe NVMe drives, an older SATA-only M.2 drive is generally not compatible, so check the type of your drive.

Speed: USB 3.2 Gen 2x1

The enclosure uses USB-C 3.2 Gen 2x1, which ASUS rates at up to 10 Gbps. That is a theoretical maximum for the interface. Real transfer speeds depend on the SSD, the file sizes and the computer's port, and they are typically lower. A computer port must also support this USB standard to reach the full rate. Slower ports still work, only at reduced speed.

Screwdriver-free installation

ASUS describes the installation as screwdriver-free. Typically, that means the drive is inserted and held with a latch or clip instead of needing tools. It makes swapping drives quicker, which suits anyone who moves drives between enclosures or devices.

Keeping the drive cool

NVMe SSDs can get warm during long transfers, and many slow themselves down when they get too hot. The enclosure has an aluminum alloy case and thermal pads, which ASUS says deliver aggressive heat dissipation. The pads carry heat from the drive into the metal shell, which acts as a heatsink.

Cables, holder and lighting

The box includes two cables, USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A, so it can connect to both newer and older computer ports. ASUS also includes a hanging protective holder. The lighting is a feature of the "ROG Strix" styling: ASUS says the design supports Aura Sync lighting effects, which can sync with other compatible products.

Size

The listing gives dimensions of about 4.9 x 1.9 x 0.4 inches (roughly 12.4 x 4.8 x 1 cm) and a weight of 0.6 lb (about 270 g), small enough to carry in a pocket or laptop bag.

Who it suits

It suits people who want to turn an M.2 NVMe drive into portable storage, such as photographers and video editors moving large files, gamers adding storage to a console or handheld, or anyone reusing a drive from an upgraded computer.

What to check before you buy

• Drive type: confirm your SSD is PCIe NVMe, not SATA-only, and note its length.
• Port on your device: check that your computer or console has a USB-C or USB-A port that supports your target speed.
• Heat: sustained transfers on fast drives still produce heat, so avoid covering the enclosure.
• Compatibility: if you plan to use it with a console or tablet, check the device maker's guidance on external drives.
• Data: keep a second copy of important files, as with any drive.
• What's in the box: the SSD is not included.

The short version

• A USB-C 3.2 Gen 2x1 enclosure rated at up to 10 Gbps.
• Fits M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs in 2230, 2242, 2260 and 2280 sizes.
• Screwdriver-free installation, an aluminum alloy case and thermal pads.
• Includes USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables and a hanging holder.
• Aura Sync lighting; about 0.6 lb.

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