ICY BOX M.2 NVMe Tool-Free SSD Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The ICY BOX M.2 NVMe Tool-Free SSD Enclosure offers a straightforward, tool-free way to connect M.2 drives via USB-C. It uses an aluminum shell for cooling and supports standard 10Gbps transfers. If you are looking for icy box m 2 nvme sata SSD alternatives, you might want different features or brands. Some users prefer dual-protocol support for both NVMe and SATA drives. Others need specific form factors or cable-free designs for portability.
We selected 6 similar picks because their specifications overlap with the original product. Each alternative shares key traits like tool-free installation and aluminum construction. However, they differ in interface options, drive compatibility, and physical size. This list helps you compare these practical differences. You can find a model that better fits your specific hardware needs. The goal is to match your exact requirements for speed, cooling, and drive type without unnecessary complexity.
How ICY BOX compares to alternatives
SSK Dual-Protocol M.2 SSD Enclosure
The SSK Dual-Protocol enclosure shares the 10Gbps transfer speed and tool-free design of the ICY BOX unit, but it distinguishes itself with a slightly slimmer profile at 0.47 inches in height. This compactness may appeal to users with limited desk space or those who prefer a low-profile external drive. Like the ICY BOX, it features an aluminum housing for thermal management, ensuring sustained performance during large file transfers. However, it lacks the explicit mention of supporting multiple M.2 form factors like 2230 or 2242, focusing primarily on the standard 2280 size. If you prioritize a smaller footprint while maintaining dual-protocol support and quick access, this SSK model offers a practical alternative to the ICY BOX.
SSK Tool-Free M.2 NVMe USB-C Enclosure
This SSK Tool-Free enclosure matches the ICY BOX in transfer speeds and tool-free convenience, targeting NVMe users who need fast access. It shares the aluminum cooling construction, which helps dissipate heat effectively during intensive workloads. The primary difference lies in its specific optimization for NVMe PCIe drives, whereas the ICY BOX explicitly supports both NVMe and SATA protocols. This SSK model is slightly lighter at 0.2 kilograms and has a similar slim profile. If your workflow involves exclusively NVMe drives and you value a lightweight, silver-grey enclosure, this option provides a focused solution. It gives up the broader SATA compatibility found in the ICY BOX, making it a specialized choice for NVMe-centric users.
ORICO Dual-Protocol Tool-Free M.2 Enclosure
The ORICO Dual-Protocol enclosure mirrors the ICY BOX’s 10Gbps speed and tool-free installation, but it adds a dedicated heatsink vest to its aluminum body for enhanced thermal control. This feature may benefit users who frequently transfer large datasets or use high-capacity drives that generate more heat. It supports both NVMe and SATA protocols, similar to the ICY BOX, ensuring broad compatibility with various M.2 drives. The ORICO model is slightly wider at 1.38 inches and longer at 4.88 inches, which might affect portability for some users. If you need robust cooling for sustained high-speed transfers while maintaining tool-free ease, this ORICO unit offers a sturdy, slightly larger alternative to the ICY BOX.
MAIWO Dual-Interface M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure
The MAIWO Dual-Interface enclosure stands out by offering direct USB-A and USB-C connectivity, eliminating the need for separate cables or adapters. This design supports 10Gbps transfers and handles drives up to 8TB, providing greater capacity flexibility than the ICY BOX. It maintains tool-free access and an aluminum housing for cooling, ensuring consistent performance. The MAIWO model is notably thinner at 0.35 inches, making it highly portable for travel. However, it lacks the explicit support for smaller M.2 form factors like 2230 or 2242, focusing on standard sizes. If you want a cable-free experience with high capacity and a slim profile, this MAIWO option offers a distinct advantage over the ICY BOX.
MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA USB-C Enclosure
This MAIWO M.2 enclosure matches the ICY BOX’s 10Gbps speed and tool-free design, while supporting both NVMe and SATA protocols for versatile drive swapping. It features an aluminum housing for effective heat dissipation, similar to the ICY BOX. The MAIWO model is slightly narrower at 1.48 inches and lighter at 1.76 ounces, enhancing its portability. It supports drives up to 8TB, offering greater storage flexibility. However, it does not explicitly mention support for smaller M.2 form factors like 2230 or 2242, focusing on standard sizes. If you prioritize a compact, lightweight design with broad protocol support and high capacity, this MAIWO enclosure provides a practical alternative to the ICY BOX.
ORICO Dual-Bay NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure
The ORICO Dual-Bay enclosure differs significantly by housing two separate M.2 slots, allowing you to connect both NVMe and SATA drives simultaneously. This dual-bay design supports up to 4TB per drive, offering substantial storage flexibility. It retains the tool-free installation and aluminum construction for cooling, ensuring easy access and thermal management. The model is heavier at 6.35 ounces and lacks explicit support for smaller M.2 form factors, focusing on standard sizes. If you regularly handle mixed drive types and need to access multiple drives without swapping, this ORICO unit provides a unique dual-drive solution. It sacrifices the single-drive portability of the ICY BOX for expanded multi-drive capability.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ICY BOX M.2 NVMe Tool-Free SSD Enclosure
Best for: frequent tool-free M.2 drive swapping
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps
- Host Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen2
- Drive Interface
- NVMe, SATA, M and B&M Keys
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Aluminium housing, thermal pad
- Installation Style
- Tool-Free
View on Amazon: ICY BOX M.2 NVMe Tool-Free SSD Enclosure Affiliate link
This external aluminum enclosure connects an M.2 NVMe or SATA solid-state drive to your system via USB 3.2 Gen 2 at up to 10Gbps. It uses a tool-free buckle mechanism and includes an aluminum housing with a thermal pad to manage heat. It handles 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 form factors with M or B&M keys. You get both USB-C and USB-A connectivity for broad hardware compatibility.
Pros
- Tool-free buckle mechanism for drive installation without tools
- 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 transfer rate
- Supports four M.2 sizes: 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280
- Includes thermal pad and aluminum housing for heat dissipation
Cons
- Listed notes exclude support for SATA NGFF and mSATA cards
- 10Gbps connection caps peak throughput below high-end NVMe potential
Good fit if
- You swap M.2 drives frequently and need tool-free installation.
- You need to connect M.2 drives across both USB-C and USB-A host devices.
- You use standard M.2 sizes ranging from 2230 up to 2280.
Skip if
- You need transfer speeds exceeding 10Gbps for high-bandwidth drives.
- You need to read legacy mSATA format drives.
Verdict: ICY BOX Tool-Free M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure delivers standard 10Gbps transfer rates in an aluminum shell that requires no mounting tools. It suits users who swap standard M.2 drives across USB-A and USB-C hardware.
SSK Dual-Protocol M.2 SSD Enclosure
Best for: Dual protocol NVMe and SATA users
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps
- Host Interface
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
- Drive Interface
- PCIe NVMe & SATA (M-Key, B+M Key)
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Aluminum alloy shell, thermal pads
- Installation Style
- Tool-free
View on Amazon: SSK Dual-Protocol M.2 SSD Enclosure Affiliate link
This SSK enclosure supports both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs. It connects via USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 for speeds up to 10Gbps. The tool-free design allows quick installation without screws. An aluminum shell helps dissipate heat. It fits standard 2280 drives as well as smaller 2230, 2242, and 2260 sizes. You get a blue status light and dual cables.
Pros
- Supports NVMe PCIe and SATA protocols
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 interface
- Tool-free installation mechanism
- Aluminum alloy heat dissipation shell
- Includes thermal pads and dual cables
Cons
- SATA drives are limited to 6Gbps
- Bus-powered with no external power option
- Grey color only
Good fit if
- You need to use both NVMe and SATA drives
- You prefer installing drives without tools
- You want a slim aluminum design
Skip if
- You require external power for stability
- You need speeds higher than 10Gbps
- You prefer a different color finish
Verdict: SSK Tool-Free M.2 NVMe Enclosure offers a practical solution for users needing dual protocol support. It suits those who value quick tool-free access and efficient cooling in a compact form factor.
SSK Tool-Free M.2 NVMe USB-C Enclosure
Best for: NVMe users needing fast, tool-free access
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps
- Host Interface
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
- Drive Interface
- PCIe NVMe M-Key
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Aluminum shell, thermal pads
- Installation Style
- Tool-free
View on Amazon: SSK Tool-Free M.2 NVMe USB-C Enclosure Affiliate link
This SSK enclosure lets you connect NVMe PCIe M-Key SSDs via USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 for speeds up to 10Gbps. It supports 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 form factors with a tool-free design. The aluminum shell aids heat dissipation. You get both USB-C and USB-A cables. It works with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros
- Tool-free installation for quick SSD swaps
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 interface with 10Gbps speed
- Aluminum alloy shell for heat dissipation
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables
- Supports 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 sizes
Cons
- Only supports NVMe PCIe M-Key drives
- Not compatible with SATA M.2 drives
- Does not support B-Key or B+M-Key connectors
Good fit if
- You need fast 10Gbps transfers for NVMe drives
- You want a tool-free design for frequent swaps
- You use both USB-C and USB-A ports
Skip if
- You have SATA M.2 SSDs to use
- You need support for B-Key drives
- You require an external power supply
Verdict: SSK M.2 NVMe Tool-Free Enclosure is a practical choice for users with NVMe PCIe drives who need speed and easy access. It fits those who value tool-free convenience and aluminum cooling.
ORICO Dual-Protocol Tool-Free M.2 Enclosure
Best for: swapping M.2 NVMe and SATA drives easily
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps NVMe, 5Gbps SATA
- Host Interface
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
- Drive Interface
- M.2 NVMe M/B+M Key, NGFF SATA B+M Key
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Heatsink, thermal silicone, aluminum
- Maximum Capacity
- 4TB
View on Amazon: ORICO Dual-Protocol Tool-Free M.2 Enclosure Affiliate link
This ORICO enclosure houses both M.2 NVMe and SATA drives up to 4TB across four lengths: 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280. You get transfer rates up to 10Gbps on NVMe and 5Gbps on SATA over a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 host connection. The tool-free latch design and included thermal silicone vest make it suitable if you frequently swap internal SSDs for quick portable backups or transfers.
Pros
- Supports both M.2 NVMe (10Gbps) and SATA (5Gbps) drives
- Accommodates 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 form factors up to 4TB
- Tool-free push-button latch with rubber drive fasteners
- Aluminum shell with thermal silicone pad and heatsink vest
Cons
- SATA transfer speed capped at 5Gbps
- Houses only one drive at a time
Good fit if
- You need tool-free installation for swapping M.2 drives quickly.
- You work with both PCIe NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs up to 4TB.
- You connect drives to Windows, Mac OS, Linux, or Android devices.
Skip if
- You need a multi-drive enclosure to connect two SSDs simultaneously.
- You require speeds higher than the 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 ceiling.
Verdict: ORICO Tool-Free M.2 NVMe & SATA Enclosure provides straightforward dual-protocol SSD compatibility with quick, hardware-free drive swapping up to 10Gbps. Its aluminum body and heatsink vest keep high-capacity NVMe and SATA drives secure during regular data transfers.
MAIWO Dual-Interface M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure
Best for: cable-free use across USB-A and USB-C devices
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A, USB-C
- Drive Interface
- M.2 NVMe, M.2 SATA (M/B+M Key)
- Supported Form Factors
- M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Aluminum alloy
- Maximum Capacity
- 8TB
View on Amazon: MAIWO Dual-Interface M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure Affiliate link
This MAIWO enclosure holds one M.2 NVMe or SATA SSD and plugs straight into your hardware without an external cable. It features built-in USB-A and USB-C host connectors, delivering transfer rates up to 10Gbps for NVMe drives and 6Gbps for SATA drives. The aluminum body accepts 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 form factors with storage capacities up to 8TB. It suits you if you need a direct-plug drive that fits both legacy and modern ports.
Pros
- Integrated USB-A and USB-C connectors remove the need for external cables
- Dual protocol support for M.2 NVMe at 10Gbps and SATA at 6Gbps
- Accommodates 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 drive sizes up to 8TB
- Aluminum alloy chassis with built-in LED activity indicator
Cons
- Direct-plug design measures 5.55 inches long and can crowd adjacent ports
- No extension cable provided for recessed or hard-to-reach computer ports
Good fit if
- You switch between devices using USB-A and USB-C ports without carrying cables
- You need an enclosure that reads both NVMe and SATA M.2 drives up to 8TB
- You use multiple drive lengths across the 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 sizes
Skip if
- You need a flexible cable connection for tight port clearance
- You require data transfer speeds exceeding 10Gbps
Verdict: MAIWO Dual USB M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure provides direct USB-A and USB-C connectivity with 10Gbps speeds and support for drives up to 8TB. It eliminates loose cables while handling both NVMe and SATA protocols across four M.2 card lengths.
MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA USB-C Enclosure
Best for: flexible NVMe and SATA drive swapping
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps
- Host Interface
- USB 3.1 Gen 2x1 Type-C
- Drive Interface
- PCIe NVMe (M-Key), SATA NGFF (B+M-Key)
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Cooling System
- Aluminum alloy shell, thermal pads
- Maximum Capacity
- 8TB
View on Amazon: MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA USB-C Enclosure Affiliate link
This MAIWO enclosure converts one M.2 NVMe or SATA SSD into a portable drive via a USB 3.1 Gen 2x1 Type-C connection. It handles transfer speeds up to 10Gbps using the RTL9210B chipset and accepts 2230, 2242, 2260, or 2280 drive sizes up to 8TB. If you need a compact, tool-free aluminum housing that supports both major M.2 storage protocols, this unit offers broad compatibility for your spare drives.
Pros
- Supports both PCIe NVMe (M-Key) and SATA NGFF (B+M-Key) drives
- Tool-free drive installation
- Supports capacities up to 8TB across four M.2 sizes (2230 to 2280)
- RTL9210B controller with 10Gbps USB 3.1 Gen 2x1 interface, UASP, and TRIM
Cons
- Does not support M.2 SATA B-Key drives
- Caps transfer speeds at 10Gbps rather than faster USB standards
Good fit if
- You need to swap between M.2 NVMe and SATA drives without tools.
- You want to mount SSDs up to 8TB in size across standard 2230 to 2280 form factors.
- You want an aluminum housing with included thermal pads and ventilation holes.
Skip if
- You specifically use an M.2 SATA B-Key drive.
- You require data transfer speeds exceeding 10Gbps.
Verdict: MAIWO Tool-Free NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure delivers versatile dual-protocol drive support up to 8TB with 10Gbps transfer rates in an aluminum housing. It is a practical, hardware-agnostic solution for repurposing various M.2 drives without needing tools.
ORICO Dual-Bay NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure
Best for: handling mixed NVMe and SATA drive setups
- Max Transfer Speed
- 10Gbps (NVMe), 6Gbps (SATA)
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- Drive Interface
- PCIe NVMe M-Key, SATA B-Key, B+M Key
- Supported Form Factors
- 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280
- Drive Bay Count
- 2 bays
- Cooling System
- Aluminum fin, heat sinks, thermal pads
View on Amazon: ORICO Dual-Bay NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure Affiliate link
This dual-bay enclosure holds one M.2 NVMe drive and one M.2 SATA drive simultaneously without an external power adapter. It provides USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connectivity with speeds up to 10Gbps for NVMe and 6Gbps for SATA. With tool-free rubber cap mounting and aluminum fin cooling, it suits you if you need to access both SSD protocols side by side across sizes from 2230 to 2280 up to 4TB per slot.
Pros
- Dual slots support one NVMe SSD and one SATA SSD simultaneously
- Tool-free drive installation using rubber retention caps
- Supports up to 2 x 4TB storage capacity across 2230 to 2280 sizes
- Includes aluminum fins, two heatsink vests, and thermal pads for cooling
Cons
- Slots are protocol-restricted, with NVMe limited to one bay and SATA to the other
- Requires connecting two separate data cables to access both drives simultaneously
Good fit if
- You need to read an M.2 NVMe drive and an M.2 SATA drive in one unit.
- You swap 2230, 2242, 2260, or 2280 form factor drives without tools.
- You want bus-powered dual drive operation without an external power adapter.
Skip if
- You need to run two NVMe drives at the same time.
- You prefer a single cable connection to mount two drives.
Verdict: ORICO Dual-Bay M.2 NVMe and SATA SSD Enclosure gives you dedicated NVMe and SATA slots in a single tool-free aluminum housing. It serves well if you regularly handle both M.2 drive types up to 4TB each without needing extra power gear.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ICY BOX M.2 NVMe Tool-Free SSD Enclosure | SSK Dual-Protocol M.2 SSD Enclosure | SSK Tool-Free M.2 NVMe USB-C Enclosure | ORICO Dual-Protocol Tool-Free M.2 Enclosure | MAIWO Dual-Interface M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure | MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA USB-C Enclosure | ORICO Dual-Bay NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Transfer Speed | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | 10Gbps NVMe, 5Gbps SATA | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | 10Gbps (NVMe), 6Gbps (SATA) |
| Host Interface | USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen2 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A, USB-C | USB 3.1 Gen 2x1 Type-C | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Drive Interface | NVMe, SATA, M and B&M Keys | PCIe NVMe & SATA (M-Key, B+M Key) | PCIe NVMe M-Key | M.2 NVMe M/B+M Key, NGFF SATA B+M Key | M.2 NVMe, M.2 SATA (M/B+M Key) | PCIe NVMe (M-Key), SATA NGFF (B+M-Key) | PCIe NVMe M-Key, SATA B-Key, B+M Key |
| Supported Form Factors | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 |
| Drive Bay Count | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2 bays |
| Cooling System | Aluminium housing, thermal pad | Aluminum alloy shell, thermal pads | Aluminum shell, thermal pads | Heatsink, thermal silicone, aluminum | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy shell, thermal pads | Aluminum fin, heat sinks, thermal pads |
| Maximum Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 4TB | 8TB | 8TB | 2 x 4TB |
| Installation Style | Tool-Free | Tool-free | Tool-free | Tool-Free | not stated | Tool Free | Tool-free |
| Interface | SATA III | SATA III | NVMe | SATA III | SATA III | SATA III | SATA III |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 | M.2 2280 |
| Transfer Speed | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | not stated | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | 10Gbps | not stated |
| Features | Tool-Free | Tool-Free, UASP, TRIM | Tool-Free, UASP, TRIM | Tool-Free, UASP, TRIM | not stated | Tool-Free, UASP, TRIM | Tool-Free, UASP, TRIM |
| Bay Count | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Dual-Bay |
| Material | not stated | not stated | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | not stated | Aluminum |
| Dimensions | 4.33 × 1.65 × 0.59 inches | 4.49 × 1.5 × 0.47 inches | 4.53 × 1.54 × 0.43 inches | 4.88 × 1.38 × 0.55 inches | 5.55 × 1.22 × 0.35 inches | 4.33 × 1.48 × 0.49 inches | not stated |
| Weight | not stated | 2.82 ounces | 2.82 ounces | 3.21 ounces | 2.12 ounces | 1.76 ounces | 6.35 ounces |
| Size | M.2 NVMe SATA Enclosure | 10 Gbps | M.2 NVMe | not stated | not stated | not stated | Dual M.2 SATA+NVMe |
| Color | Black | space grey | Silver grey | Blue | Grey | Blue | Grey |
| Model | not stated | HE-C371 | HE-C327 | Blue-C to C cable | MAIWO K1683P2 | 10Gbps NVMe/SATA Enclosure | M.2 SATA+NVMe-Dual |
If you prefer metal builds, evaluate the bykski b nvme ct m 2 SSD aluminum alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Does the ICY BOX enclosure support both NVMe and SATA drives?
No, this specific model is designed for SATA III drives only. It does not support NVMe PCIe protocols. If you need to use NVMe drives, you should look at dual-protocol alternatives like the SSK or ORICO enclosures listed here, which handle both drive types in a single tool-free housing.
What is the maximum drive capacity supported by these enclosures?
Most models in this list support drives up to 8TB. The MAIWO Dual-Interface and MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA USB-C Enclosure both explicitly list 8TB compatibility. The ORICO Dual-Bay model supports up to 4TB per slot. Always check the specific product details to ensure your drive fits within these limits.
Do all these enclosures require screws to install the SSD?
No, all the products listed feature a tool-free design. You can slide your M.2 drive into the slot and secure it without any screws or additional hardware. This makes swapping drives between USB-A and USB-C devices much faster and more convenient for frequent users.
Which enclosure is best for users who have both USB-A and USB-C ports?
The MAIWO Dual-Interface M.2 NVMe and SATA Enclosure is ideal for this scenario. It provides direct connectivity for both USB-A and USB-C ports, eliminating the need for loose cables. This allows you to connect directly to various devices without adapters or extra wiring.
Are these enclosures made of metal for better heat dissipation?
Yes, most options use aluminum housings to help manage heat during high-speed transfers. The ICY BOX, SSK, ORICO, and MAIWO models all feature aluminum bodies or heatsink vests. This material helps dissipate heat effectively, which is important for maintaining performance during large data moves.
Can I use a single enclosure for both NVMe and SATA M.2 drives?
Yes, several alternatives support dual protocols. The SSK Dual-Protocol, ORICO Dual-Protocol, MAIWO Dual-Interface, and MAIWO M.2 NVMe and SATA enclosures all handle both NVMe and SATA III drives. This flexibility allows you to repurpose various M.2 drives without needing multiple separate enclosures.
Is there an option for connecting two drives at once?
Yes, the ORICO Dual-Bay NVMe and SATA M.2 Enclosure offers dedicated slots for two drives. It supports one NVMe and one SATA drive simultaneously in a single tool-free aluminum housing. This is useful if you regularly handle mixed drive setups without needing extra power gear.