by 2 reviews.
ACASIS 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure Review: Speed Meets Innovation, But Is It Perfect?
The ACASIS 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure (TB501 Pro) is a high-performance storage solution designed for professionals, gamers, and tech enthusiasts who demand the best. With its Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 V2.0 compatibility, adjustable cooling fan, and plug-and-play design, this enclosure promises to deliver lightning-fast speeds and reliable performance. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
1. Speed and Performance
Pros:
- Blazing-Fast Speeds
Many users, including one who tested it with an M4 Max, reported that the enclosure delivers speeds comparable to internal drives. This makes it an excellent choice for tasks like video editing, gaming, and data-intensive workflows. - Future-Proof Technology
The enclosure supports PCIe 4.0 x4 and NVMe 1.4 SSDs, ensuring compatibility with the latest storage technologies.
Cons:
- Thunderbolt 3 Limitations
Some users noted that Thunderbolt 3 compatibility limits speeds to 10Gbps, which is significantly lower than the advertised 80Gbps. This could be a dealbreaker for those relying on older Thunderbolt standards.
2. Build Quality and Design
Pros:
- Compact and Durable
The sleek, portable design (4.58"L x 2.22"W x 0.76"H) is a hit among users. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand daily use. - Cooling Fan
The built-in cooling fan is a standout feature, automatically activating at 55°C and deactivating at 40°C. This helps maintain optimal performance and extends the SSD’s lifespan.
Cons:
- Fan Visibility Issues
One user pointed out that there’s no way to tell if the fan is running. It’s silent, has no LED indicator, and doesn’t produce noticeable airflow. While this hasn’t caused overheating issues so far, it’s a minor inconvenience for those who want more control over their device’s cooling system.
3. Usability and Setup
Pros:
- Plug-and-Play Design
The enclosure is incredibly easy to set up, requiring no drivers or complicated installations. Just plug it in, and you’re ready to go. - Universal Compatibility
It supports B+M M-Key SSDs and works with a wide range of devices, making it a versatile choice for many users.
Cons:
- Incompatibility with PCIe Adapters
The enclosure doesn’t work with M.2 NVMe key to PCIe adapters, which could be a limitation for some users.
4. Durability and Reliability
Pros:
- Enhanced Thermal Management
The combination of thermal pads and a cooling fan ensures stable temperatures, even during high-speed transfers. - Solid Construction
The enclosure feels sturdy and well-built, giving users confidence in its durability.
Cons:
- Quality Control Issues
One customer reported that their unit failed within a day of use. To make matters worse, the manufacturer’s customer service was unresponsive, forcing them to dispute the charge and return the product. This raises concerns about the product’s reliability and the company’s support system.
5. Customer Support
Pros:
- None Reported
Unfortunately, no positive experiences with customer support were mentioned in the reviews.
Cons:
- Poor Customer Service
The lack of responsiveness from ACASIS’s customer service team is a significant drawback. One user had to go through the hassle of disputing a charge and returning the product due to a lack of support.
Final Thoughts: Is the ACASIS TB501 Pro Worth It?
The ACASIS 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure is a mixed bag. On one hand, it offers incredible speed, a compact design, and advanced cooling features that make it a top contender for professionals and gamers. On the other hand, issues like limited Thunderbolt 3 compatibility, fan visibility concerns, and poor customer service dampen its appeal.
Who Should Buy It?
- Tech Enthusiasts
If you’re looking for a future-proof enclosure with cutting-edge technology, this is a solid choice. - Content Creators and Gamers
The high-speed performance makes it ideal for handling large files and demanding applications.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Thunderbolt 3 Users
The limited speeds on Thunderbolt 3 devices may not justify the investment. - Those Prioritizing Customer Support
If reliable customer service is a must, you might want to explore other options.
Conclusion
The ACASIS 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure (TB501 Pro) is a powerful and innovative product that delivers on its promise of speed and performance. However, its shortcomings—particularly in customer service and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility—make it a less-than-perfect choice for some users. If you’re willing to overlook these issues and prioritize performance, this enclosure could be a game-changer for your storage needs. But if reliability and support are dealbreakers, you might want to think twice.
Specification ACASIS 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure, with Cooling Fan, Compatible with Thunderbolt5/USB4 V2.0, Back Compatible with Thunderbolt4/3/USB4 V1.0, USB3.2/3.1/3.0, Support SSD B+M M-Key (TB501 Pro):
Comments from Amazon:
Excellent, speeds comparable to the internal drive of my M4 Max. My only complaint is that there's no way to tell whether the tiny fan inside is running or not. No LED, silent, cannot feel any movement. Still, haven't had any overheating issues so far.
I purchased this unit direct from manufacturer. The unit failed within a day. Customer service was unresponsive so I had to dispute the charge and I returned the unit. Not recommended.