Sabrent USB 3.2 Tool Free NVME SSD Enclosure Review

When Style Meets Function

Sabrent’s EC-TFNE USB 3.2 (USB 3.1 Gen2) external NVME enclosure allows you to get a full Gigabyte (not bit!) per second on an external interface. You can use this to make use of an old NVME SSD you upgraded from, back up data from an NVME SSD, or simply make your own incredibly fast external storage drive.

The massive block of aluminum weights 7.2oz (.45 pounds)! That’s enough metal to properly dissipate NVME NAND heat without needing fans, a giant enclosure, heat fins, etc. The end result is a sleek, reliable, and durable enclosure that doesn’t skimp on performance.

PCB Analysis and Performance

The interface uses a JMicron JMS583 memory controller which allows native TRIM support, proper voltage regulation, and full USB 3.2 Gen 1 performance. Included in the box are two USB cables, one USB-A to USB-C, and one USB-C to USB-C. No tools are required, as the magnetic “screw” mount and tool-less enclosure make swapping out drives possible in under a minute.

For $45 on Amazon ($90 MSRP), it’s not the least expensive option out there. When it comes to design and performance, I can see why it costs a small premium over other brands. If you need an external enclosure for your NVME SSD and expect performance and reliability, this is a great option. As depicted below, we were able to fully saturate the USB 3.2 Gen 1 connection, and temps remained in a very respectable operating range under heavy loads. This enclosure worked reliably through all of our tests. It performed well, with no unexpected disconnects or anomalies in data transfers.

Performance using an OEM NVME SSD and fully saturating USB 3.2 Gen 1
20 minutes of full load with stable temps of 44C

Additional Info:

  • EC-TFNE (silver)
  • EC-TFNB (black)
  • Windows/Mac Compatible
  • USB 3.2 Gen 1 Speeds
  • USB-C to USB-A, and USB-C to USB-C cables included
  • Tool free design
  • Only for NVMe M-Key M.2 SSD (PCIE-based)
  • Weight 7.2 oz

1 Comment

  1. Hi Joe!
    Thanks for sharing your insights! Very helpful.
    Will the enclosure work in a video monitor/recorder (Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR) to record RAW video and then connect to a PC for post-processing?
    Thank you!
    Roman

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