By Although several suppliers offer ready-to-play, pre-populated external SSDs, these devices are typically either extremely fast and costly, or extremely inexpensive and only appropriate for light-duty data transfer. Although not particularly inexpensive, drive-less enclosures, like the IP-rated Asus TUF Gaming A2 reviewed here, let you take advantage of faster SSD technologies at a lower cost.
What features does the TUF Gaming A2 have?
Hex screws are common in my guitar hardware, so I’m used to them. However, I didn’t anticipate seeing them on an external drive enclosure. However, I guess I shouldn’t be shocked considering the TUF moniker.
It stands to reason that thieves are less likely to have a hex wrench like the one Asus includes on hand than a screwdriver. That is, if the thief wanted to remove the drive from the very attractive enclosure anyway. More likely, the hex is just for aesthetics.
Regarding its sleek, black, ribbed silicone-wrapped casing, the A2 measures approximately 4.5 inches in length, 2.25 inches in width, and is slightly thicker than 0.5 inches. With a weight of about 5.5 ounces, it is somewhat heavy.
For my part, I adore the firm weight in my hand and the pleasant grip provided by the silicone-coated side and upper surfaces. This would be the portable drive I would bring to a barroom fight. Well, incorrect weapon, but you get the idea.
What is the price of the Asus TUF Gaming A2?
As of this writing, the A2 is on Amazon for $54, which is less than its original $60 price. Undoubtedly, 20Gbps enclosures are available for less. Much less. However, they won’t come close to matching the A2’s build quality.
Consider using a USB4 enclosure, like the UGreen CM642, if you want to work across platforms. It will be significantly faster on Macs. On most Macs and many Windows PC, Thunderbolt connectors, 20Gbps USB 3.2×2 reduce to 10Gbps.
What is the TUF Gaming A2’s speed?
The USB 3.2×2 performance of the TUF A2 was outstanding. Better than average, though I must admit that I filled it with the powerful Samsung 9100 Pro. Less capable SSDs will be used by the majority of external drives, including the rival Crucial X10 and Addlink P21 in the charts. Compared to the synthetic benchmarks, this is more noticeable in the lengthy transfer testing.
Please take note that I have only begun using Xcopy and Windows Explorer to test transfers. Microsoft has Xcopy optimized for NVMe rather than Explorer for some reason. Figure it out. For additional information about testing, see the section at the bottom of this review titled “How we test.”
Is the TUF Gaming A2 a good purchase?
The A2 is the best option if you want 20Gbps USB storage that can withstand the demands of travel and even off-road activities. I’m completely infatuated with it, and as long as Asus permits, it will remain in the backpack.
