Are you tired of slow data transfers and running out of space on your internal drives? It’s time to supercharge your storage game with an external NVMe SSD. For folks who demand speed, reliability, and innovative design, Sabrent stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re a content creator handling massive video files, a gamer needing lightning-fast load times, or just someone who wants speedy backups, finding the Sabrent best NVMe SSD for external storage can be a game-changer.
Sabrent has made a name for itself by offering high-performance, durable, and user-friendly storage solutions. From blazing-fast portable SSDs to versatile enclosures that let you customize your setup, there’s a Sabrent product designed to meet almost any external storage need. We’ve scoured their offerings to bring you a curated list of the top 7 Sabrent NVMe SSDs and enclosures that excel in the external storage arena. Let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
1. SABRENT USB 3.2 Type-C Tool-Free Enclosure for M.2 PCIe NVMe and SATA SSDs
This isn’t just an enclosure; it’s a gateway to turning your internal M.2 SSDs (both NVMe and SATA) into lightning-fast, portable external storage devices. What makes this Sabrent enclosure truly shine is its commitment to convenience. It’s 100% tool-free, meaning you can swap SSDs in and out in seconds – perfect for tech enthusiasts, professionals managing multiple drives, or anyone who values quick, hassle-free upgrades. Its sleek aluminum body ensures durability while helping with heat dissipation, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go data management.
- Key Features:
- 100% Tool-Free installation for M.2 SSDs.
- Ultra-slim Aluminum case with ABS frame for durability and portability.
- Compatible with M.2 SATA and NVMe SSDs (2242/2260/2280 sizes).
- USB 3.2 (Gen 2) Type-C supports up to 10Gbps data transmission.
- Plug & Play, bus-powered, no external power supply or drivers needed.
- Pros:
- Incredibly easy and quick SSD installation.
- Broad compatibility with both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs.
- Excellent portability and robust design.
- Fast 10Gbps transfer speeds for efficient data handling.
- Cons:
- SSD not included (as it’s an enclosure).
- Speed limited by USB 3.2 Gen 2 (not Thunderbolt or faster USB modes).
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise this enclosure for its genuine tool-free design and solid build quality. Many highlight how it simplifies the process of reusing old M.2 SSDs or creating high-speed portable drives for various projects. The dual NVMe/SATA compatibility is a huge plus for versatility.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SABRENT 1TB Rocket Nano XTRM External SSD, USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 3
When you need an out-of-the-box solution that screams speed and versatility, the Sabrent Rocket Nano XTRM is a top contender for the Sabrent best NVMe SSD for external storage. This compact powerhouse combines a high-performance NVMe SSD with cutting-edge Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) and USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 (10Gbps) connectivity, delivering astonishing speeds of up to 2700MBps. Built with rugged portability in mind, its solid aluminum body not only looks great but also aids in heat dissipation and ensures durability, perfect for professionals who are always on the move.
- Key Features:
- Dual compatibility: Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) for up to 2700MBps and USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 (10Gbps) for up to 900MBps.
- Rugged solid aluminum body for durability and heat management.
- Compact and portable design with an included optional silicon sleeve for extra protection.
- Plug and play, bus-powered, no drivers required.
- Comes with both Thunderbolt and USB-C to USB-A cables.
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds, especially with Thunderbolt 3.
- Excellent backward compatibility with older USB systems.
- Extremely durable and travel-friendly design.
- All necessary cables included for wide connectivity.
- Cons:
- Thunderbolt 3 speeds require a compatible port.
- Premium price point due to high performance and robust build.
- User Impressions: Customers are consistently impressed by the sheer speed and robust build of the Rocket Nano XTRM. It’s often cited as an essential tool for video editors and photographers who need to access large files quickly on location. The dual connectivity is highly appreciated for its flexibility across different devices.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SABRENT USB-C Lay Flat Docking Station – NVMe M.2 + 2.5”/3.5” SATA SSD/HDD
For power users who juggle multiple drives and need a versatile data management hub, the Sabrent Lay Flat Docking Station is an absolute gem. This isn’t just an external enclosure; it’s a full-fledged docking station capable of handling both M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs and larger 2.5”/3.5” SATA SSDs or HDDs simultaneously. Its tool-free, lay-flat design makes swapping drives incredibly easy, and the standout feature of offline cloning allows you to duplicate drives without even needing a PC. It’s an invaluable tool for backups, data recovery, or system upgrades.
- Key Features:
- Wide compatibility: Supports M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs (2242, 2260, 2280) and 2.5”/3.5” SATA SSDs/HDDs.
- 10Gbps High-Speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port.
- Tool-Free installation with a secure hinged lid.
- Smart Offline Cloning function with progress LEDs.
- Cross-Platform ready (Windows, macOS, Linux) and powered by a 12V adapter.
- Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with dual NVMe and SATA drive support.
- Convenient tool-free design for quick drive swaps.
- Offline cloning feature is a major time-saver for backups and upgrades.
- Robust 10Gbps USB-C connectivity.
- Cons:
- Not as portable as the dedicated external SSDs or smaller enclosures.
- Requires external power, making it less ideal for quick mobile use.
- User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the utility of the offline cloning feature and the convenience of being able to hot-swap different drive types. It’s frequently recommended for IT professionals, data recovery specialists, and anyone needing a robust desk-bound solution for drive management.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SABRENT Rocket XTRM Plus 2TB Thunderbolt 3 Portable SSD
Building on the success of its predecessors, the Sabrent Rocket XTRM Plus 2TB takes external storage performance to the next level. This upgraded portable SSD is a prime example of the Sabrent best NVMe SSD for external storage when top-tier speed and durability are non-negotiable. With its Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, it can hit incredible speeds of up to 2,700 MB/s, while also offering robust USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) fallback mode. The premium aluminum shell not only looks sleek but also dissipates heat effectively, ensuring sustained performance during demanding tasks like 4K video editing or large file transfers.
- Key Features:
- Upgraded Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) for speeds up to 2,700 MB/s.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 fallback mode (10Gbps) for speeds up to 900 MB/s.
- Durable aluminum outer shell for ruggedness and improved heat dissipation.
- Includes a premium Thunderbolt 3 cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable.
- Plug-and-play, bus-powered, and universally compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Pros:
- Extremely high transfer speeds for professionals and enthusiasts.
- Excellent sustained performance thanks to effective heat management.
- Built to last with a premium, rugged design.
- Comprehensive cable package for broad device compatibility.
- Cons:
- High price point, reflecting its premium performance.
- Full speed only achievable with Thunderbolt 3 ports.
- User Impressions: Users report phenomenal speeds and appreciate the consistently high performance even under heavy loads. It’s often highlighted as a reliable and essential tool for demanding creative workflows, praising its sturdy build and included accessories.
- See it on Amazon here
5. SABRENT Rocket RGB NVMe & SATA M.2 SSD Enclosure – USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20Gbps
If you’re looking to combine serious performance with a touch of flair, the Sabrent Rocket RGB enclosure is your go-to. This isn’t just any M.2 enclosure; it supports both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs and boasts a super-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, delivering an impressive 20Gbps. That’s double the speed of standard 10Gbps USB-C enclosures! What truly sets it apart is the eye-catching, status-responsive RGB lighting, which not only adds aesthetic appeal but also provides visual cues for power and activity. It’s a fantastic choice for gamers, modders, and anyone who wants their external storage to look as good as it performs.
- Key Features:
- High-Speed USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20Gbps) for up to 2000MB/s transfer rates.
- Compatible with both M.2 NVMe and M.2 SATA SSDs (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 sizes).
- Tool-Free aluminum design with built-in thermal padding for efficient heat dissipation.
- Dynamic RGB LEDs indicate power and activity, adding style and function.
- Plug and Play across Windows, macOS, Linux, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and other USB-C hosts.
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast 20Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance.
- Unique and functional RGB lighting.
- Tool-free design for easy SSD installation.
- Excellent compatibility with both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 compatible port to achieve maximum speeds.
- RGB lighting might not appeal to all users.
- SSD not included.
- User Impressions: Customers love the combination of high speed and stylish RGB lighting, finding it a great way to personalize their setup. The tool-free installation and robust aluminum build are frequently highlighted as significant advantages, making it a favorite for those wanting a high-performance yet cool-looking external drive.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD 2TB – PCIe Gen4 M.2
While primarily an internal SSD, the Sabrent Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD is an outstanding choice if you’re looking to create the Sabrent best NVMe SSD for external storage using an enclosure, especially for compact devices. This 2TB PCIe Gen4 drive is specifically designed for tight spaces like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally (with adapter), or Surface Pro. When paired with a compatible Sabrent external enclosure, its powerful Gen4 performance (up to 5GB/s read) allows you to build a blazing-fast, massive-capacity portable drive for gaming, media, or any demanding application where size matters.
- Key Features:
- M.2 2230 form factor, ideal for space-constrained devices.
- Powerful PCIe Gen4 interface with Phison E21T controller, up to 5GB/s read.
- Massive 2TB capacity using QLC flash.
- DRAM-less with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) for efficient, low-power operation.
- Retail quality with downloadable Sabrent Acronis cloning software.
- Pros:
- Exceptional performance for its compact size.
- High 2TB capacity eliminates the need for smaller external storage or microSD cards.
- Perfect for upgrading internal storage in handhelds and ultrabooks, then easily used externally.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Cons:
- Requires an external enclosure to be used as external storage.
- 2230 form factor might be less common for general external enclosure compatibility (though Sabrent has compatible options).
- User Impressions: Users purchasing this for devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally are thrilled with the performance and capacity upgrade. When used in a suitable external enclosure, it delivers impressive speeds and expands storage significantly, making it a top pick for portable gaming libraries.
- See it on Amazon here
7. SABRENT Rocket 2230 1TB NVMe SSD – PCIe Gen4 M.2
Another excellent internal M.2 2230 NVMe SSD that shines as an external storage solution when placed in a Sabrent enclosure, the Rocket 2230 1TB offers incredible speed and compact compatibility. This PCIe Gen4 drive boasts speeds up to 5GB/s, making it perfect for rapid game loading, seamless multitasking, and efficient file access on devices like the Steam Deck, Surface Pro, or ultrabooks. By combining this 1TB drive with an appropriate Sabrent external enclosure, you get a portable, high-speed storage solution that’s both reliable and highly efficient.
- Key Features:
- Compact M.2 2230 form factor for small devices.
- High-Speed PCIe Gen4 performance up to 5GB/s read and 800K IOPS.
- 1TB capacity using premium 3D TLC NAND.
- DRAM-less with HMB support for low power usage and cool operation.
- Retail-grade quality with full warranty and Sabrent Acronis True Image cloning software.
- Pros:
- Ideal for creating ultra-compact and fast external storage.
- Significant speed boost for games and applications.
- Reliable and efficient with low power consumption.
- Perfect for expanding internal storage on specific small devices, then used externally.
- Cons:
- As an internal SSD, it requires a separate external enclosure to function as portable storage.
- 1TB capacity might be insufficient for some power users compared to 2TB options.
- User Impressions: Gamers and users of compact laptops love this SSD for its ability to dramatically improve performance and storage capacity in their devices. When paired with an external enclosure, it’s often praised for delivering a robust and speedy external drive experience that punches above its weight.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: What is NVMe, and why is it good for external storage?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication protocol specifically designed for SSDs that use PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interfaces. Unlike older SATA SSDs, NVMe drives can offer significantly higher transfer speeds (often 5-10 times faster or more) and lower latency. For external storage, this means much faster file transfers, quicker backups, and smoother performance when running applications or games directly from the external drive.
Q2: What’s the main difference between an external SSD and an SSD enclosure?
A: An external SSD is a complete, ready-to-use device that includes the NVMe SSD and its casing/controller all in one unit. You just plug it in and use it. An SSD enclosure, on the other hand, is just the casing and controller without the SSD itself. You purchase an M.2 NVMe SSD separately and install it into the enclosure to create your own custom external drive. Enclosures offer flexibility in choosing your SSD’s capacity and brand, and sometimes allow for tool-free swapping of drives.
Q3: Do I need Thunderbolt 3 for a Sabrent external NVMe SSD?
A: Not necessarily, but it depends on the speed you’re aiming for. Thunderbolt 3 (and Thunderbolt 4) offers the fastest possible speeds (up to 40Gbps or ~2700MB/s) for compatible Sabrent external SSDs. If your computer has a Thunderbolt port, you’ll get the best performance. However, many Sabrent external NVMe SSDs and enclosures also support USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps or ~1000MB/s) or even USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20Gbps or ~2000MB/s), which are still incredibly fast and perfectly sufficient for most users.
Q4: Can I use these Sabrent external NVMe SSDs for gaming on consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S?
A: Yes, many Sabrent external NVMe SSDs and enclosures can be used with modern gaming consoles. For PS5, you can store and play PS4 games directly from an external drive. For PS5 games, you can store them externally but need to transfer them back to the internal SSD to play. Xbox Series X/S allows you to store optimized games externally, but you’ll need to transfer them to the internal SSD or a proprietary expansion card to play them at full speed. Always check the console manufacturer’s specific requirements for external storage.
Q5: How do I ensure I get the maximum speed from my Sabrent external NVMe SSD?
A: To maximize your speed, ensure your computer has a compatible, high-speed port (e.g., Thunderbolt 3/4 or USB 3.2 Gen 2×2/Gen 2, depending on your drive/enclosure). Use the high-quality cable provided with your Sabrent product, as lower-quality or longer cables can sometimes degrade performance. Also, ensure your operating system is up-to-date, and avoid running too many background processes that could consume system resources.
Q6: Are Sabrent external NVMe SSDs compatible with both Windows and macOS?
A: Yes, most Sabrent external NVMe SSDs and enclosures are designed to be cross-platform compatible with Windows, macOS, and often Linux. They usually come pre-formatted or are easily formatted to work with your operating system of choice. If you plan to switch between Windows and macOS frequently, you might want to format the drive to exFAT for the broadest compatibility, though it might have slight performance or feature limitations compared to native formats.
Q7: What does “tool-free” mean for an NVMe enclosure?
A: “Tool-free” means you don’t need any screwdrivers or other tools to open the enclosure and install or remove an M.2 SSD. These enclosures typically feature a slide-out tray, clips, or a hinged lid that allows you to easily insert and secure your SSD by hand. This design is incredibly convenient for quickly swapping drives or setting up your external storage without fuss.
Conclusion
Choosing the Sabrent best NVMe SSD for external storage means investing in speed, reliability, and innovative design. Whether you opt for a complete portable SSD like the Rocket Nano XTRM for its blistering Thunderbolt speeds, or a versatile enclosure like the Tool-Free or RGB model to customize your setup, Sabrent offers a solution that truly enhances your digital workflow. Even their specialized 2230 internal SSDs, when paired with the right enclosure, can create ultra-fast and compact external drives for specific devices.
From accelerating your video editing projects to expanding your gaming library, a Sabrent external NVMe SSD is a smart upgrade. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down the perfect choice to meet your high-performance storage needs!