So, you’ve heard all the buzz about Solid State Drives (SSDs) – they’re super fast, quiet, and really make your computer feel snappier. You’re probably itching to upgrade your old spinning hard drive (HDD) or add some blazing-fast storage to your setup. But here’s the thing: most desktop PCs are still built with larger 3.5-inch drive bays, while most SSDs come in a smaller 2.5-inch form factor. This is where the magic happens! You need the right tools to bridge that gap and truly leverage the best 3.5 and 2.5 SSD solutions available today.
Whether you’re looking to mount a new SSD internally, create a portable external drive, or even clone your existing system, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 products that help you seamlessly integrate your 2.5-inch SSDs (and sometimes 2.5/3.5-inch HDDs) into a 3.5-inch world, making your storage dreams a reality.
Why You Might Need These Handy Gadgets
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about why these adapters and enclosures are so crucial for modern PC users:
- Internal SSD Upgrade: You bought a speedy 2.5-inch SSD, but your desktop case only has 3.5-inch internal drive bays. These adapters let your SSD slot right in like it was meant to be.
- External Data Access: Need to pull data from an old laptop hard drive or use a bare SSD as a portable storage device? External enclosures or SATA to USB adapters are your best friends for quick data transfers and backups.
- System Cloning & Migration: Upgrading your operating system drive? Many of these tools make it super easy to clone your old drive’s contents to a new, faster SSD.
- Maximize Storage Space: Some brackets allow you to mount multiple 2.5-inch SSDs into a single 3.5-inch bay, maximizing your available storage slots.
- Convenience & Portability: An external enclosure turns any internal drive into a plug-and-play USB storage device, perfect for on-the-go data or sharing files between computers.
No matter your specific need, finding the best 3.5 and 2.5 SSD compatibility tools will streamline your setup and unlock your storage potential. Let’s check out our top picks!
1. ORICO 2.5 SSD SATA to 3.5 Hard Drive Adapter Internal
This ORICO adapter is a fantastic solution for anyone looking to pop a 2.5-inch SSD or laptop HDD into a standard 3.5-inch desktop drive bay. What makes it stand out is its clever design, which makes the 2.5-inch drive behave exactly like a 3.5-inch drive, complete with a native SATA III interface – no extra cables or drivers needed! It’s all about plug-and-play simplicity and getting you up and running fast.
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Key Features:
- Converts 2.5-inch SATA drives (7 / 9.5 / 12.5mm) to 3.5-inch size.
- Integrated SATA III interface (no data cables needed for the adapter itself).
- Supports hot-swapping, plug-and-play operation.
- Up to 6Gbps transmission rate (SATA 3.0 protocol).
- Designed with precise screw holes for secure mounting.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
- Made of lightweight, flame-retardant ABS material.
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Pros:
- Extremely convenient, acts like a native 3.5-inch drive.
- Tool-free for the adapter itself (once the SSD is inside).
- High-speed data transfer.
- Broad compatibility with various 2.5-inch drive heights.
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Cons:
- Made of ABS plastic, which might feel less premium than metal for some users.
- Only an internal adapter, not for external use.
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User Impressions: Customers love how easy this adapter is to install and how seamlessly it integrates their 2.5-inch SSDs into their desktops. Many highlight the built-in SATA interface as a major plus for a cleaner setup.
2. Corsair Dual SSD Mounting Bracket (3.5” Internal Drive Bay)
If you’re tight on space but have a spare 3.5-inch drive bay, the Corsair Dual SSD Mounting Bracket is a brilliant pick. This clever little bracket lets you securely mount not one, but two 2.5-inch SSDs or laptop HDDs into a single 3.5-inch internal bay. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their storage potential without needing extra bays.
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Key Features:
- Fits in any standard 3.5″ internal drive bay.
- Adapts one 3.5″ bay for up to two 2.5″ SSDs.
- Supports both 7mm and 9.5mm height standard SSDs.
- Adjustable mounting holes for flexible SSD placement.
- Designed for ample clearance to prevent SATA cable strain.
- Includes all necessary SSD and adapter mounting screws.
- Easy, hassle-free installation.
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Pros:
- Maximizes space by fitting two drives in one bay.
- Robust and durable construction.
- Thoughtful design ensures easy cable connection.
- Includes all mounting hardware.
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Cons:
- It’s just a bracket; no electronic components.
- Requires two separate SATA data and power cables for each SSD.
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User Impressions: Users praise this Corsair bracket for its sturdy build quality and the simple fact that it just works. It’s a go-to for anyone looking to add multiple SSDs to an older desktop without dedicated 2.5-inch bays.
3. SSD HDD Holder 2.5 to 3.5 Mounting Bracket Hard Drive
Sometimes, simplicity is key, and this SSD HDD Holder perfectly embodies that. It’s a straightforward, no-frills mounting bracket designed to help you easily install a single 2.5-inch SSD or HDD into any standard 3.5-inch internal drive bay. If you just need a basic, reliable solution to get your 2.5-inch drive into a larger bay, this is an excellent, cost-effective choice.
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Key Features:
- Supports a single 2.5″ HDD/SSD.
- Includes M3 #6-32*6 screws for mounting to the PC case.
- Fits perfectly in standard 3.5″ internal drive bays.
- Easy to install.
- Converts a 3.5” internal drive bay to fit a 2.5″ SSD/HDD.
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Pros:
- Very simple and effective design.
- Extremely affordable.
- Includes mounting screws.
- Broad compatibility with most desktop PC cases.
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Cons:
- Only supports one drive.
- Basic construction, not as feature-rich as some other options.
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User Impressions: Reviewers find this bracket to be an incredibly functional and budget-friendly solution. It does exactly what it promises, providing a secure fit for your 2.5-inch drives in a 3.5-inch slot without any fuss.
4. SABRENT USB 3.0 Enclosure for 2.5” & 3.5” SATA HDD/SSD
When you need to turn an internal drive into a fast, portable, external storage solution, the SABRENT USB 3.0 Enclosure is a top contender. This versatile enclosure supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA hard drives and SSDs, making it incredibly flexible. Its tool-free design and durable aluminum construction make it a user favorite for quick and secure external storage.
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Key Features:
- Universal compatibility with 2.5” and 3.5” SATA HDDs and SSDs.
- Tool-free setup for easy drive swapping.
- Fast USB 3.0 speeds (up to 5Gbps) with UASP support for enhanced performance.
- Durable aluminum shell with an internal shock-absorbing ABS tray.
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Plug-and-play with included USB Type-B to Type-A cable and 12V/2A power adapter.
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Pros:
- Supports both 2.5″ and 3.5″ drives, highly versatile.
- Tool-free installation is a huge time-saver.
- Excellent transfer speeds thanks to USB 3.0 and UASP.
- Robust and stylish aluminum design.
- Comes with power adapter for 3.5″ HDDs.
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Cons:
- Requires a power adapter for 3.5″ HDDs (though this is standard).
- Not as compact as some 2.5″ only enclosures.
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User Impressions: This Sabrent enclosure is highly rated for its ease of use, solid construction, and reliable performance. Users often commend the tool-free design for making drive swaps incredibly simple, whether for data recovery or external backup.
5. UGREEN SATA to USB 3.0 Adapter Cable for 3.5 2.5
If you’re looking for the ultimate flexibility without committing a drive to an enclosure, the UGREEN SATA to USB 3.0 Adapter Cable is a godsend. This compact cable lets you connect any 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA SSD or HDD directly to your computer via USB. It’s perfect for quick data recovery, system migration, or temporary access to bare drives.
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Key Features:
- Connects 3.5″/2.5″ SSD/HDD to your computer via USB 3.0.
- 5Gbps transfer speeds with UASP acceleration (70% faster than traditional USB 3.0).
- Plug-and-play with no driver installation required.
- Hot-swap supported.
- Includes a 12V/2A Power Adapter for 3.5″ hard drives.
- Compatible with PS4, Xbox, Windows, Mac OS, and supports drives up to 20TB.
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Pros:
- Extremely versatile for both 2.5″ and 3.5″ drives.
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds with UASP.
- No need for an enclosure, very portable.
- Comes with necessary power adapter for larger drives.
- Great for quick diagnostics or data transfers.
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Cons:
- Leaves the bare drive exposed, not ideal for permanent use or rough handling.
- The power adapter can be bulky to carry around.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this UGREEN adapter for its reliability and speed. It’s a favorite among IT professionals and tech-savvy individuals for its ability to quickly access drives without needing to install them in a chassis.
6. SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA I/II/III Dual Bay External Hard
For those who regularly work with multiple drives or need to perform drive cloning, the SABRENT Dual Bay External Hard Drive Docking Station is a powerful choice. This unit can accommodate two 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA SSDs or HDDs simultaneously and even offers offline cloning, meaning you can duplicate a drive without connecting it to a computer. It’s a true workhorse for serious data management.
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Key Features:
- Supports standard desktop 2.5″/3.5″ SATA HDDs or SSDs.
- Dual-bay design for simultaneous drive access.
- Supports hard drives up to 10TB per bay.
- Plug-and-play, no drivers needed.
- Supports Offline Cloning up to 60Mbps.
- Supports transfer speeds up to 5Gbps (USB 3.0).
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Pros:
- Offline cloning feature is incredibly convenient.
- Supports two drives simultaneously.
- High capacity support.
- Easy to swap drives in and out.
- Fast USB 3.0 connectivity.
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Cons:
- Takes up desk space.
- Requires a dedicated power supply.
- Not as portable as a single-drive enclosure.
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User Impressions: Customers love the Sabrent Dual Bay Dock for its robust build and, particularly, its offline cloning functionality, which many find indispensable. It’s considered a reliable tool for backups, data recovery, and drive duplication.
7. Cable Matters 2-Pack 2.5 to 3.5 Hard Drive Adapter for
The Cable Matters 2-Pack offers incredible value for anyone looking to equip multiple desktop PCs or add several SSDs internally. This kit provides two adapters, along with all the necessary cables and even a screwdriver, making it a comprehensive solution for converting 2.5-inch drives to fit 3.5-inch bays. It’s the perfect way to get your best 3.5 and 2.5 SSD compatibility sorted across multiple setups.
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Key Features:
- Converts 2.5-inch hard drives to fit in a 3.5-inch drive bay.
- Allows installing two SSDs or laptop HDDs in one 3.5-inch bay (per adapter).
- All-in-one kit includes mounting brackets, screws, SATA data/power cables, and a screwdriver.
- Included SATA III data cable supports speeds up to 6Gbps.
- Universally compatible with most standard 3.5-inch drive bays and 2.5-inch SSDs.
- Cost-effective 2-pack.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with a 2-pack and full accessory kit.
- Allows mounting two 2.5″ drives per adapter (total of four with the pack!).
- Includes high-speed SATA III cables.
- Easy and complete installation.
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Cons:
- Requires a screwdriver for installation (though one is included).
- Still requires separate power and data connections for each drive.
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend this Cable Matters 2-pack for its completeness and value. The inclusion of all cables and tools makes it a hassle-free solution for internal SSD upgrades, saving users from hunting for individual components.
8. CENMATE Hybrid 2.5/3.5″ SATA HDD/SSD+3* M / B+M Key M.2
For the power user who demands both massive storage capacity and lightning-fast NVMe speeds, the CENMATE Hybrid Enclosure is truly innovative. This unique external enclosure can house one 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drive AND up to three M.2 NVMe SSDs simultaneously! It’s a game-changer for content creators, gamers, or anyone needing a versatile, high-capacity external storage hub.
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Key Features:
- Innovative hybrid storage: 1 SATA HDD/SSD bay + 3 M.2 NVMe SSD slots.
- Massive total capacity: up to 22TB per SATA drive and 8TB per M.2 SSD (Max 46TB).
- Up to 10Gbps transfer speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Aluminum-alloy materials with built-in 2-inch silent fans for cooling.
- Wide compatibility with Windows, Mac, Linux; supports USB 3.0/3.1/3.2, Thunderbolt 3/4.
- Tool-free hard drive tray design for easy installation.
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Pros:
- Unparalleled versatility with SATA and multiple NVMe slots.
- Extremely high total storage capacity.
- Fast 10Gbps transfer speeds.
- Excellent cooling with active fans.
- Tool-free installation.
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Cons:
- Fans, while silent, run continuously, which might be a slight audible presence for some.
- Higher price point due to advanced features.
- Larger physical footprint due to multiple drive bays.
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User Impressions: Tech enthusiasts are blown away by the CENMATE’s hybrid capability and immense storage potential. Users appreciate the cooling system and the convenience of having both types of drives in one accessible enclosure, despite the slight fan noise.
9. SABRENT 2.5 Inch to 3.5 Inch Internal Hard Disk Drive
Another solid offering from Sabrent, this internal mounting bracket is designed to convert any two 2.5-inch hard drives or SSDs into a single 3.5-inch drive bay. It’s a simple yet effective solution for consolidating multiple smaller drives into one larger bay, making it easier to manage your internal storage without sacrificing precious bay space.
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Key Features:
- Converts any two 2.5″ hard drives (including SSDs) into a 3.5″ drive bay.
- Compatible with all types of 2.5″ hard drives and SSDs.
- Quick and easy installation.
- Designed for use in standard 3.5″ internal drive bays.
- Includes screw pack to mount the drives.
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Pros:
- Supports two 2.5″ drives in one 3.5″ bay.
- Very simple and intuitive design.
- Includes necessary screws for mounting.
- Cost-effective way to maximize internal storage.
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Cons:
- It’s just a bracket, no electronic features.
- Requires two separate SATA data and power cables.
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User Impressions: Users find this Sabrent bracket to be a straightforward and reliable product. It’s lauded for its perfect fit and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious upgrades that involve multiple SSDs.
10. EYOOLD SATA to USB 3.0 Adapter, External Hard Drive
The EYOOLD SATA to USB 3.0 Adapter offers a speedy and convenient way to access your 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA SSDs and HDDs externally. Like other adapter cables, it excels at providing quick access for data backup, system upgrades, or file retrieval without the need for an enclosure. Its support for UASP technology means your data moves faster, making it an essential tool for any tech toolkit.
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Key Features:
- Connects standard 2.5″ or 3.5″ SATA HDD/SSD to your computer/laptop via USB 3.0.
- Supports drive capacity up to 6TB.
- SuperSpeed up to 5Gbps with UASP technology (70% faster than traditional USB 3.0).
- Plug-and-play, no drivers required.
- Hot-swapping and wide compatibility (PS4, Xbox, Windows, Mac OS).
- Includes a 12V 2A power adapter (essential for 3.5″ drives).
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Pros:
- Quick and easy access to bare drives.
- Excellent data transfer speeds with UASP.
- Versatile for both 2.5″ and 3.5″ drives.
- Portable and easy to carry.
- Includes required power adapter for 3.5″ HDDs.
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Cons:
- Leaves the drive exposed, not for long-term external storage.
- Power adapter is needed for 3.5″ drives, adding to clutter.
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User Impressions: EYOOLD’s adapter is praised by users for its reliable performance and solid build. Many appreciate the UASP support for faster transfers, and it’s frequently recommended for quick data transfers and diagnostic work.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Needs
With all these fantastic options for the best 3.5 and 2.5 SSD integration, how do you pick the right one? Consider these factors:
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Purpose:
- Internal Mounting: If you just need to put a 2.5-inch SSD inside your desktop’s 3.5-inch bay, a simple mounting bracket or adapter (like ORICO, Corsair, Cable Matters) is what you need.
- External Access/Portability: For accessing drives on the go, data recovery, or temporary use, an external enclosure (SABRENT USB 3.0 Enclosure, CENMATE) or a SATA to USB adapter cable (UGREEN, EYOOLD) is ideal.
- Cloning/Multiple Drives: A dual-bay docking station (SABRENT Dual Bay) is perfect for cloning or managing several drives.
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Drive Size & Type:
- Most solutions support 2.5-inch SATA SSDs and HDDs.
- If you’re dealing with 3.5-inch HDDs, make sure the external enclosure or adapter specifies compatibility and includes a power adapter.
- If you have NVMe M.2 SSDs (the stick-like ones), you’ll need a specialized enclosure like the CENMATE.
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Speed Requirements:
- Look for USB 3.0 (5Gbps) or USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) for external solutions.
- UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) significantly boosts transfer speeds, so it’s a great feature to have.
- Internal adapters usually connect directly via SATA III (6Gbps), which is plenty fast for SSDs.
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Installation Ease:
- “Tool-free” designs are super convenient for external enclosures if you plan to swap drives frequently.
- Internal brackets might require a screwdriver, but often come with the necessary hardware.
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Power Needs:
- 2.5-inch SSDs typically draw enough power from the USB port or SATA connection.
- 3.5-inch HDDs almost always require an external power adapter, so ensure it’s included with your chosen external solution.
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Budget: There’s a wide range of prices. Simple brackets are very affordable, while feature-rich external enclosures or docking stations will cost more.
Conclusion
Upgrading your storage or simply managing your data more efficiently doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right adapter, bracket, or enclosure, you can seamlessly integrate your 2.5-inch SSDs into any setup, making the most of your internal space or creating powerful external storage solutions.
We hope this guide to the best 3.5 and 2.5 SSD compatibility tools has shed some light on your options and helped you find the perfect product for your needs. Happy upgrading!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between a 2.5-inch and a 3.5-inch drive?
A1: The main difference is their physical size. 2.5-inch drives are typically found in laptops and are smaller, while 3.5-inch drives are larger and commonly used in desktop computers. Most modern SSDs come in the 2.5-inch form factor, while traditional HDDs come in both.
Q2: Do I need an adapter to install a 2.5-inch SSD in a desktop PC?
A2: Most modern desktop PC cases now include dedicated 2.5-inch mounting points. However, if your case only has 3.5-inch drive bays, or if you want to mount multiple 2.5-inch drives in one 3.5-inch bay, then yes, you’ll need a 2.5-inch to 3.5-inch mounting bracket or adapter.
Q3: What is UASP and why is it important for external drive adapters/enclosures?
A3: UASP stands for USB Attached SCSI Protocol. It’s a protocol that allows USB devices to process multiple commands simultaneously and efficiently. For external SSDs and HDDs, UASP significantly boosts data transfer speeds (often by 70% or more) and reduces CPU utilization compared to older USB Mass Storage Bulk-Only Transport (BOT). It’s a must-have feature for fast external storage.
Q4: Can I put a 3.5-inch hard drive into a 2.5-inch enclosure or adapter?
A4: No, a 3.5-inch hard drive is physically too large to fit into a 2.5-inch enclosure or adapter. You must use an enclosure or adapter specifically designed to support 3.5-inch drives.
Q5: Do external enclosures/adapters for 3.5-inch drives always need a power adapter?
A5: Yes, almost always. 3.5-inch hard drives require more power than a standard USB port can provide, so external enclosures or adapters for these drives will come with a dedicated power adapter that plugs into a wall outlet. 2.5-inch SSDs usually don’t need a separate power source when used with a USB adapter.
Q6: Can I use these adapters/enclosures for data recovery from old drives?
A6: Absolutely! External SATA to USB adapter cables or external enclosures are incredibly useful for connecting old laptop or desktop drives to a new computer to retrieve data. They are often a first step in data recovery attempts.
Q7: Is it possible to boot my operating system from an external SSD connected via USB?
A7: Yes, it is generally possible to boot an operating system (like Windows To Go or a Linux distribution) from an external SSD connected via USB. However, performance might not be as good as an internally connected drive, and you might need to adjust your BIOS/UEFI settings to allow booting from a USB device.
Q8: Are these solutions compatible with NVMe M.2 SSDs?
A8: Most of the basic 2.5-inch to 3.5-inch adapters and standard SATA to USB adapters/enclosures are designed for SATA drives only. NVMe M.2 SSDs use a different interface and require specific NVMe-compatible enclosures or adapters, such as the CENMATE hybrid enclosure mentioned in our list.