Head-to-head · Best Portable SSDs

ASUS ROG Strix Arion vs OWC Express 1M2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

OWC Express 1M2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.1 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about power users who need high-speed external storage — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Portable SSDs

ASUS ROG Strix Arion

4.1

$59

The ASUS ROG Strix Arion delivers solid performance as a 10 Gbps M.2 NVMe enclosure with a premium aluminum build and effective cooling. TechPowerUp praised its rigid construction and heat dissipation, while Reviews Inside noted the RGB lighting adds visual appeal for ROG enthusiasts. However, GPCB criticized the pin-based installation system as impractical for frequent SSD swaps. The enclosure's higher price point compared to similar alternatives like the Samsung T7 Touch makes it less value-driven for budget-conscious users. This product appeals to gamers and content creators who prioritize performance and aesthetics over portability and cost.

Strengths

— Rigid aluminum construction with excellent thermal management via pre-attached thermal pads
— Supports PCIe 3.0 x2 NVMe SSDs at maximum 10 Gbps transfer speeds
— Includes both USB-A and USB-C cables for versatile connectivity

Watch-outs

— Pin-based lid mechanism is not tool-free and prone to getting lost
— More expensive than comparable 10 Gbps enclosures with similar performance
— Bulkier form factor reduces portability compared to some competitors

$59 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Portable SSDs

OWC Express 1M2

4.6

$219

PCMag's Tony Hoffman and PCWorld's Jon Jacobi both praised the OWC Express 1M2 for its exceptional USB4 performance, noting over 3GBps transfer speeds and universal compatibility across USB and Thunderbolt ports. The reviewers highlighted its versatility and sturdy construction, though Jacobi noted it's somewhat large and pricey when preloaded with an SSD. The device's unpopulated design allows users to install their own NVMe drive, making it a flexible option for those wanting USB4 performance without the premium cost of preloaded models. This product is ideal for power users who need high-speed external storage but should be avoided by those prioritizing portability or budget-conscious buyers.

Strengths

— Over 3GBps transfer speeds with USB4 interface
— Works with all USB and Thunderbolt 3/4 ports for universal compatibility
— Available unpopulated so users can leverage their own NVMe SSD

Watch-outs

— A bit pricey when loaded with an SSD
— Large size may be cumbersome for portability

$219 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

ASUS ROG Strix Arion

Unlike the ORICO M2VG01-C3 and Plugable USBC-NVME, the ASUS ROG Strix Arion offers a more premium build with pre-attached thermal pads and RGB lighting, making it stand out for enthusiasts who value aesthetics and cooling. However, it's bulkier and more expensive than the ACASIS USB4 40Gbps NVMe Enclosure, which provides better value for power users seeking Thunderbolt speeds without the premium cost. Compared to the OWC Express 1M2, it lacks the universal compatibility and unpopulated design that makes the OWC a more flexible option for those wanting to use their own SSDs.

OWC Express 1M2

The OWC Express 1M2 excels in performance and universal compatibility, surpassing the ASUS ROG Strix Arion and ACASIS USB4 40Gbps NVMe Enclosure in transfer speeds and portability. However, it's larger and more expensive than the Plugable USBC-NVME and Sabrent Rocket Nano V2, making it less ideal for users seeking compact and budget-friendly options. Compared to the ORICO M2VG01-C3, it offers better performance but lacks the transparent design that tech enthusiasts might prefer.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	ASUS ROG Strix Arion	OWC Express 1M2
Interface	USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)	USB4
Speed	Up to 7200 RPM	Over 3GBps
Capacity	2.5-inch HDD/SSD	1TB
Form Factor	2230, 2242, 2260, 2280	External SSD
Dimensions	147 x 101.6 x 26.9 mm	100 x 57 x 15 mm
Weight	0.45 kg	100 g
Compatibility	M-Key & B-Key PCIe/NVMe	USB and Thunderbolt 3/4
Material	Aluminum	Aluminum

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