TOP 15 BEST THUNDERBOLT 3 SSD ENCLOSURE FOR YOUR MONEY

If you’re in the market for a new Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best Thunderbolt 3 enclosures on the market.

With any of these enclosures, you’ll be able to take advantage of the incredible speed and reliability of Thunderbolt 3. So whether you need to transfer large files or simply want the fastest possible data transfer experience, one of these enclosures is sure to meet your needs.

Thunderbolt 3 SSD Enclosure Comparison 2024

• Best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure for 4k video editing: No products found.
• Best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure for MAC users: No products found.
• Best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure for Windows users: No products found.
• Best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure for graphic designers: No products found.
• Best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure for photographers: No products found.

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Thunderbolt 3 SSD Enclosure Reviews 2024

Glyph Atom RAID SSD

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If you are looking for a fast and durable external SSD, the Glyph Atom RAID SSD is a great option to consider. It features a rugged all-aluminum enclosure with bumper protection and a reversible USB-C connector. Plus, its bus-powered design means you can take it with you anywhere, making it a great choice for on-the-go professionals.

Furthermore, the hardware RAID-0 provides extreme speed, making it perfect for video editing, 4K gaming, and other data-intensive tasks. In the box, you’ll find the RAID External SSD, USB Type-C to USB3.1 Cable, USB Type-C to USB3.0 Cable, and a quick start guide. The Glyph Atom RAID SSD is compatible with MAC OS X10.4+ and Windows Vista+.

Last but not least, it comes in four colors and capacities up to 4TB. So, if you need an external SSD that can keep up with your demanding workflow, the Glyph Atom RAID SSD is a great option to consider.

Pros:

• All-aluminum enclosure
• Rugged bumper protection
• Bus-powered freedom
• Fits in your pocket
• Reversible USB-C (3.1, Gen2) connector
• Hardware RAID-0 for extreme speed
• Comes in four colors: black, gold, grey, and silver
• Capacities up to 4TB
• Compatible with MAC OS X10.4+ and Windows Vista+

Cons:

• None

Plugable 2TB Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive

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The Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive from Plugable is a great option if you need a lot of storage space. With 2TB of storage available, you can keep all of your files and data easily accessible. The drive also boasts a fast read speed of 2400MB/s, making it ideal for quickly transferring content between devices.

In addition, the full metal enclosure helps to dissipate heat and keep the drive running cool. And at only 3.6 ounces, it’s one of the lightest drives available, making it easy to take with you on the go.

Finally, the Thunderbolt 3 interface is bus-powered, meaning you won’t need an external power source. All in all, the Plugable 2TB Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive is a great option for those who need a lot of storage space and fast transfer speeds.

Pros:

• 2TB of storage space
• Fast read speed of 2400MB/s
• Lightweight and portable
• Bus-powered

Cons:

• None

Sabrent Rocket XTRM-Q 2TB USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 3 External SSD

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The Sabrent Rocket XTRM-Q 2TB USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 3 External SSD is a great choice if you need an external storage solution that can offer fast speeds. This drive automatically detects the transfer speed of Thunderbolt 3 mode and USB mode, so you can be sure that you’re getting the most out of your data.

The solid aluminum construction of this drive ensures durability, while the integrated temperature monitoring system keeps things running smoothly. Plus, there’s no need for external power – just plug it in and you’re good to go!

So, if you need an external SSD that can offer fast speeds and easy setup, the Sabrent Rocket is a great option.

Pros:

• Automatically detects the transfer speed of Thunderbolt 3 mode and USB mode
• Solid aluminum construction for durability
• Integrated temperature monitoring system
• No need for external power

Cons:

• None

OWC Gemini Thunderbolt 3 Enclosure

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If you are looking for a Thunderbolt 3 storage solution, the OWC Gemini enclosure is a great option. It comes with four configuration options and two Thunderbolt 3 ports. You can install either a 2.5″ or 3.5″ HDD or SSD, and there are also two USB3.1 Gen 1 ports and a DisplayPort1.2. The OWC Gemini has a 3-year warranty.

The enclosure is made out of sturdy aluminum and has a sleek design. It’s easy to set up and use, and the hardware raid controller makes it easy to manage your data. The SD4.0 card reader is a great feature, as it allows you to easily transfer data from your camera. The Gemini also has a fanless design, so it runs silently.

One downside of the OWC Gemini is that it’s not compatible with all SSDs. Make sure to check compatibility before you purchase. Overall, the OWC Gemini is a great Thunderbolt 3 storage solution and is backed by a solid warranty.

Pros:

• Four configuration options
• Two Thunderbolt 3 ports
• Install either a 2.5″ or 3.5″ HDD or SSD
• Two USB3.1 Gen 1 ports
• DisplayPort1.2
• 3-year warranty
• Sturdy aluminum construction
• Easy to set up and use
• SD4.0 card reader

Cons:

• Not compatible with all SSDs (check compatibility before buying)

SABRENT Thunderbolt 3 SSD Tool-Free Enclosure (EC-T3DN)

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The Sabrent Thunderbolt 3 SSD Tool-Free Enclosure (EC-T3DN) is a great option for those looking for a fast and reliable way to store data. The enclosure is made of solid aluminum, which helps to dissipate heat and keeps your data safe. It’s also very easy to install, with no tools required.

The included power adapter ensures compatibility with Thunderbolt 3. The EC-T3DN is also backward compatible with NVMe M2 form factor sizes: 2242, 2260, and 2280. With a speed of 1500 MB/s, this enclosure is sure to keep your data safe and sound.

So, if you’re looking for a fast and reliable way to store data, the Sabrent Thunderbolt 3 SSD Tool-Free Enclosure is a great option.

Pros:

• Aluminum built for dissipating heat
• Easy to install
• Compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and NVMe M2 form factor sizes
• 1500 MB/s speed

Cons:

• None

ACASIS USB4.0 M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure

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If you are looking for a great Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, the ACASIS USB4.0 M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure is an excellent option to consider. This enclosure offers a transfer speed of up to 40Gbps, making it perfect for transferring large files quickly and easily.

Additionally, the enclosure is backward compatible with a variety of different USB standards, making it a great choice for those who need compatibility with older devices. Also, the plug-and-play design of this enclosure makes it easy to use, and the aluminum alloy shell provides excellent heat dissipation to help prolong the life of your SSD.

Overall, the ACASIS USB4.0 M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure is a great choice for those who need a fast and reliable Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure.

Pros:

• Fast transfer speed of up to 40Gbps
• Backward compatible with older USB standards
• The plug-and-play design makes it easy to use
• The aluminum alloy shell provides excellent heat dissipation

Cons:

• None

TEKQ Cube Thunderbolt 3 SSD

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Are you looking for a fast and efficient way to transfer data? If so, you may want to consider investing in a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure. With a Thunderbolt 3 interface, you’ll be able to transfer data at incredibly high speeds, making it perfect for filmmakers, photographers, and anyone else who needs to move large files around quickly.

The TEKQ Cube is a great option when it comes to Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosures, as it’s bus-powered and easy to use. Plus, its aluminum casing ensures excellent heat dissipation and its sleek design makes it an elegant addition to any setup. Plus, with a 1-year warranty, you can be confident in its quality and performance.

So, if you’re looking for a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure that is both high-speed and stylish, the TEKQ Cube is a great option.

Pros:

• Bus-powered and easy to use
• Sleek design
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• None

Fledging Shell Thunder SSD Enclosure

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If you are looking for a great Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, the Fledging Shell Thunder SSD Enclosure is a great option to consider. It delivers some of the highest speeds available, with write and read speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s and 2,700 MB/s, respectively. This makes it an ideal choice for transferring data, photos, and videos, or for boosting your gaming experience.

Additionally, the smart cooling system helps to keep your drives running cooler and therefore extends their lifespan. Plus, the included Thunderbolt 3 cable makes it easy to connect to your computer or laptop.

Overall, the Fledging Shell Thunder SSD Enclosure is a great option for anyone in the market for a high-quality Thunderbolt 3 enclosure.

Pros:

• Write and read speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s and 2,700 MB/s
• A smart cooling system helps keep drives running cooler
• Includes Thunderbolt 3 cable

Cons:

• It is a bit more pricey than some of the other enclosures on this list

OWC Envoy Express Thunderbolt 3 Enclosure

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If you’re looking for a great Thunderbolt 3 enclosure that is both affordable and easy to use, the OWC Envoy Express is definitely a model worth considering. This enclosure is certified to be bus-powered, meaning that it doesn’t require an external power supply in order to function.

It’s also compatible with NVMe M.2 2280 SSDs, making it a great option for those who want to upgrade their storage without breaking the bank. The OWC Envoy Express offers excellent performance, with speeds of up to 1553MB/s. It also comes with an integrated Thunderbolt 3 cable, which is a nice touch.

Overall, the OWC Envoy Express is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, affordable Thunderbolt 3 enclosure.

Pros:

• Certified to be bus-powered
• Compatible with NVMe M.2 2280 SSDs
• Speeds of up to 1553MB/s
• Integrated Thunderbolt 3 cable

Cons:

• None

Plugable USB C to M.2 NVMe Tool-free Enclosure

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If you are looking for a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure that is easy to install and provides great performance, then the Plugable USB C to M.2 NVMe Tool-free Enclosure is a great option to consider. This enclosure comes with a sleek black aluminum design and features extruded fins that help dissipate heat, making it ideal for use with high-performance M.2 NVMe SSDs.

It also includes both USB-C and USB 3.0 cables, so it is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. Additionally, the Plugable USB C to M.2 NVMe Tool-free Enclosure comes with a 2-year warranty, making it a great option for those who want a reliable and high-quality Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure.

Pros:

• Sleek black aluminum design
• Features extruded fins that help dissipate heat
• Comes with a 2-year warranty

Cons:

• None

Anker PowerExpand SSD Enclosure Adapter

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If you are looking for a way to increase the speed of your computer, then you may want to consider purchasing the Anker PowerExpand SSD Enclosure Adapter. This device is designed to help you transfer heavy files in seconds, with speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

It is also compatible with M.2 NVMe or SATA SSDs, USB-C, or Thunderbolt 3 drives. This makes it a great choice for those who want to upgrade their computer’s storage capacity and speed.

However, it is important to note that this device is not compatible with PCIe AHCI SSDs or mSATA SSDs. So, if you have either of those types of drives, then you’ll need to look elsewhere. But overall, the Anker PowerExpand SSD Enclosure Adapter is a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade their computer’s storage and speed.

Pros:

• Great way to increase the speed of your computer
• High-speed transfers with up to 10 Gbps
• Compatible with M.2 NVMe or SATA SSDs, USB-C, or Thunderbolt 3 drives

Cons:

• Not compatible with PCIe AHCI SSDs or mSATA SSDs

SABRENT USB 3.2 Type-C Tool-Free Enclosure

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The SABRENT USB 3.2 Type-C Tool-Free Enclosure is a great choice if you’re looking for a Thunderbolt 3 compatible enclosure. It’s made of aluminum and ABS frame, making it both portable and durable. It’s also easy to install, with no tools required.

The enclosure is compatible with SATA and NVME drives in sizes 2242, 2260, and 2280. It also supports data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps. Plus, it’s plug-and-play, so you don’t need any extra drivers or software. If you’re a 4K content creator, tech nerd, or engineer, this is the perfect enclosure for you.

So, whether you’re working with 4K content or just need a fast and efficient way to transfer data, the SABRENT USB 3.2 Type-C Tool-Free Enclosure is a great option.

Pros:

• Aluminum and ABS construction makes it both portable and durable
• Easy to install – no tools required
• Compatible with SATA and NVME drives in sizes 2242, 2260, and 2280
• Supports data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps
• Plug and play – no extra drivers or software needed

Cons:

• None

UGREEN M.2 NVMe & SATA SSD Enclosure

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The UGREEN M.2 NVMe & SATA SSD Enclosure is a great choice for those who are looking for a way to increase the speed of their computer. This enclosure is compatible with both NVMe and SATA drives, and it has a transmission speed of 10Gbps. It is also Thunderbolt 3 compatible, making it easy to install and use.

The buckle design ensures that the transmission is steady, and the broad compatibility means that it will work with Mac OS, Windows, Android, Linux, and IOS systems. The RTL9210B chip provides protection and stability, and the support for UASP/Trim means that the speed will be fast. The compact and portable design makes it easy to carry, and the included cables make it easy to connect to your computer.

Overall, the UGREEN M.2 NVMe & SATA SSD Enclosure is a great choice for those who want to increase the speed of their computer.

Pros:

• A great choice for those who want to increase the speed of their computer
• Compatible with both NVMe and SATA drives
• Has a transmission speed of 10Gbps
• Thunderbolt 3 compatible
• Easy to install and use
• Buckle design ensures that the transmission is steady
• Broad compatibility means that it will work with Mac OS, Windows, Android, Linux, and IOS systems
• RTL9210B chip provides protection and stability

Cons:

• None

Cable Matters 10Gbps Gen 2 USB C Hard Drive Enclosure

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The Cable Matters 10Gbps Gen 2 USB C Hard Drive Enclosure is a great option for those who need a fast and convenient way to back up their data. This enclosure supports SATA III with a transfer rate of 6Gbps, making it a great choice for those who need a fast and reliable way to store their data. The aluminum housing of this enclosure helps to dissipate heat, so it can be used for long-term storage without worry.

The included USB Type-C cable makes this enclosure compatible with Thunderbolt 3, making it a great choice for those who need a fast and reliable way to connect their drives. This enclosure is also compatible with SATA HDD and SSD 9.5mm, including 7mm, so you can use it with a variety of drives.

Overall, this is a great choice for those who need a fast, reliable, and cost-effective way to store their data.

Pros:

• Supports SATA III with a transfer rate of 6Gbps
• Aluminum housing helps to dissipate heat
• Included USB Type-C cable makes this enclosure compatible with Thunderbolt 3
• Compatible with SATA HDD and SSD 9.5mm, including 7mm

Cons:

• None

SSK M.2 NVME SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter

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The SSK M.2 NVME SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter is a great product to consider if you are looking for an enclosure that can support both SATA and NVME PCIe M-Key SSDs. The device comes with a slim design, excellent heat dissipation, and portability, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

Additionally, the SSD enclosure includes two thermal pads, USB Type-C, and USB 3.0 cables to ensure quick installation and compatibility with a variety of devices. The SSK M.2 NVME SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter also features UASP support to improve transfer speeds, making it one of the fastest enclosures on the market.

If you are looking for a reliable and high-performance SSD enclosure, the SSK M.2 NVME SATA SSD Enclosure Adapter should be at the top of your list.

Pros:

• Slim design for easy portability
• Excellent heat dissipation
• Comes with USB Type-C and USB 3.0 cables for quick installation
• UASP support for faster transfer speeds

Cons:

• It would be nice if the enclosure came with an adapter for use with older computers

What Is A Thunderbolt 3 SSD Enclosure? What Are Its Benefits?

Thunderbolt 3 is the latest iteration of Thunderbolt, a type of connection that allows for very high data transfer speeds. A Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure is a special type of enclosure that allows you to use an SSD as if it were a traditional hard drive. This can be helpful because SSDs are often faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives.

There are several benefits to using a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, including the following:

Increased Data Transfer Speeds

Thunderbolt 3 offers data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps, which is much faster than the SATA III standard (6 Gbps) or even the newer NVMe standard (up to 32 Gbps). This means that you can transfer large amounts of data very quickly when using a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure.

Reduced Latency

Thunderbolt 3 also offers lower latency than other interface standards, meaning that data can be transferred more quickly and with less delay. So, Thunderbolt 3 is considered to be more convenient than others.

Daisy-Chaining

Thunderbolt 3 supports daisy-chaining, which means you can connect multiple devices to a single port on your computer. This can be useful if you want to connect multiple SSDs to your computer or if you want to connect other devices, such as a 4K monitor, to your computer.

Power Delivery

Thunderbolt 3 can also provide power to devices, meaning that you can connect an SSD enclosure to your computer and have it powered via the Thunderbolt 3 cable. This is useful if you want to use an SSD enclosure with a laptop that doesn’t have an external power source.

Reversible Connector

Thunderbolt 3 uses a reversible USB-C connector, which makes it easy to connect the cable in the correct orientation. This is in contrast to other interface standards, such as HDMI, which can be difficult to connect if you’re not paying attention.

Compact Form Factor

Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosures are typically very compact, meaning they can easily be transported and stored. So, it is an optimal option for those who want to try new technology without worrying about its size.

Hardware Encryption

Some Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosures offer hardware-based encryption, which means that your data is more secure as it is being transferred between the SSD and the computer. This is a valuable feature if you are concerned about the security of your data.

Affordable

Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosures have become more affordable in recent years, making them a more attractive option for many users. Hence, it is easier for you to own one without worrying about your budget.

Greater Compatibility

Thunderbolt 3 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Macs, PCs, and laptops. This means that you’re likely to be able to find a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure that works with the devices you already own.

Future-Proof

Thunderbolt 3 is the latest interface standard and is likely to be supported by new devices for many years to come. This means that you can buy a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure now and be confident that it will still be compatible with new devices in the future.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Thunderbolt 3 SSD Enclosure

When looking for a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, there are a few factors you’ll want to take into consideration.

Compatibility

When looking for a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, one of the most important factors to consider is compatibility. The enclosure must be compatible with both your computer and the type of SSD you plan to use. Some enclosures are limited to certain types of SSDs, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

Speed

Another important factor to consider when choosing a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure is speed. The enclosure should support the transfer speeds of your SSD, or you won’t be able to take full advantage of its capabilities. Make sure to check the specs of both the enclosure and your SSD before making a purchase.

Portability

If you plan on using your Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure while traveling, portability is an important factor to consider. Some enclosures are larger and heavier than others, so make sure to choose one that will be easy to take with you on the go.

Durability

When choosing a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, you’ll also want to consider durability. Some enclosures are made with more durable materials than others, so it’s important to pick one that will be able to withstand the rigors of travel. You don’t want your enclosure to break or become damaged easily, so make sure to choose one that’s built to last.

Price

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price when choosing a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure. There is a wide range of enclosures available at different price points, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

Now that you know what to look for in a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure, you can start shopping for the perfect one for your needs. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect enclosure for your needs and budget.

FAQs

Q: How does a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure work?

A Thunderbolt 3 enclosure is a hardware device that allows an SSD (solid-state drive) to be connected to a computer. The enclosure contains the connector for the SSD as well as circuitry that communicates with the computer and powers the SSD. When coupled with a Thunderbolt 3 port on the computer, this allows for very high-speed data transfers between the two devices.

Q: Are there any drawbacks to using a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure?

There are a few potential drawbacks to using a Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure. First, not all laptops or desktop computers come with Thunderbolt 3 ports, so you may need to buy an adapter in order to use the enclosure. Second, the fastest Thunderbolt 3 enclosures can be expensive. Finally, while Thunderbolt 3 offers much faster data transfer speeds than USB 3.0, it is still slower than an internal SSD.

Conclusion

When it comes to Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosures, there are a lot of great options available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a Thunderbolt 3 enclosure to house your new SSD or an old HDD, we’ve got you covered. Our 15 enclosures are some of the best options for most people.

Out of the 15 enclosures on this list, the Akitio Node Lite is our top pick for the best Thunderbolt 3 SSD enclosure because it is well-built, affordable, and integrates seamlessly with your Mac or PC. It also supports a wide range of SSDs, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

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No matter which enclosure you choose, though, you’re sure to get a massive boost in performance over your old setup. So if you’ve been waiting to upgrade to an SSD, there’s never been a better time than now. Thunderbolt 3 enclosures make the process easier than ever, and they’re more affordable than ever before. So what are you waiting for? Make the switch today!