It is possible to utilize the TUF game A1 with a personal computer or a game console such as the PlayStation 5 because it is able to connect to any device through the USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Type-C interface. In terms of solid-state drives (SSDs), the TUF Gaming A1 is compatible with NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs that have a size of either 2280, 2260, or 2242 units. However, keep in mind that the maximum capacity of an SSD that can be handled is 2 terabytes by the device. It is possible that in the future, this will make it more difficult for end users to upgrade.
This solid-state drive (SSD) case stands out from the competition thanks to two crucial features: the IP68 dust and water resistance, as well as the shock resistance that satisfies the MIL-STD-810H standard, which is used by the United States Military. A classification of IP68 indicates that the TUF Gaming A1 is resistant to dust and water from depths of more than one meter for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is able to prevent dust from entering the device. ASUS claims that the TUF Gaming A1 has been subjected to shock resistance testing in accordance with Method 516.8 Procedure IV of the MIL-STD-810H standard, which is used by the United States Military Service.
[content-egg-block template=offers_logo hide=price]What this indicates is that the A1 ought should be able to withstand a great deal of shocks, drops, and even accidental immersions in water as a result of its regular use. A further advantageous feature of the TUF Gaming A1 is that ASUS has incorporated Q-Latch, which enables customers to install any M.2 SSD of their choosing without the need for any additional tools. At the PCB of the enclosure, the Q-Latch may be easily moved to accommodate a variety of M.2 solid-state drive lengths, including 2280, 2260, and 2242.
Specification
- SSD Compatibility: M.2 M Key PCIe(NVMe) or SATA SSDs with a 2280, 2260, 2242 form factor
- Interface: USB 3.2 GEN 2×1 Type C (Compatible with USB 3.2 GEN 1/ USB 2.0)
- Speed: M.2 M Key PCIe(NVMe) SSDs: Up to 10 Gbps SATA SSDs: up to 6 Gbps
- Drop resistance: MIL-STD-810H* * MIL-STD-810H 516.8, Procedure IV – Transit Drop Test
- OS Compatibility: Windows 7 or later (Windows 11 ready)/ Mac OS X 10.6 or later
- Accessory: USB-C to USB-C cable
Where to Get ASUS TUF Gaming A1 M.2 SSD Enclosure?
The ASUS TUF Gaming A1 is a premium solid-state drive enclosure that is excellently constructed and, due to its attractive appearance, is certain to be a topic of discussion. As a result of its resilience to dust, shock, and water, as well as its reasonable performance when paired with a fast M.2 solid-state drive (SSD), it is not surprising that it commands a recommended retail price of $79 Singapore dollars. This places it on the higher end of the spectrum when compared to other SSD enclosure options, which are typically of the no-frills variety.
However, it is important to note that the enclosure has a capacity limitation for solid-state drives (SSDs). According to the product page on ASUS’s website, the enclosure is supposed to support SSDs with capacities of up to 2 terabytes. It would have been wonderful if the TUF Gaming A1 had support for SSDs with capacities more than 2 terabytes, as this would have provided additional future-proofing. In all fairness, however, it is important to point out that other competitor enclosure offerings appear to have the same capacity restriction of 2 terabytes. Taking everything into consideration, the TUF Gaming A1 continues to be a reliable offering of a premium portable M.2 SSD enclosure.