StarTech.com M2E1BMU31C USB-C (10Gbps) to M. 2 NVMe SSD Enclosure - Portable Aluminum Case - 1GB/s Read/Write - USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This enclosure supports the PCI Express 3.0 interface through its M.2 NVMe slot, enabling full utilization of high-speed SSD performance. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C host interface offers 10Gbps bandwidth, with UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) support reducing CPU overhead and improving data transfer efficiency.
Backward compatibility with USB 3.1 Gen 1 ensures connectivity with a wide range of existing USB-C and USB-A systems when used with appropriate adapters. The enclosure is USB-powered, eliminating the need for an external power adapter and enhancing its portability for on-the-go use.
Relevant factors for this section include Number of Solid State Drive Supported, Number of Solid State Drive Installed, Number of Total Expansion Bays. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This enclosure combines high-speed data transfer with robust physical construction, offering a reliable solution for expanding storage capacity without compromising performance. The aluminum housing not only provides durability but also aids in thermal management, ensuring consistent operation under heavy workloads.
Ultra-Portable Design
With dimensions smaller than a smartphone and weighing just over 2 ounces, this enclosure fits easily into pockets, laptop bags, or toolkits. The lightweight aluminum construction withstands daily travel while maintaining a professional appearance.
- Compact footprint
- Lightweight aluminum housing
- No external power required
Performance Optimization
The combination of USB 3.1 Gen 2, PCIe 3.0 support, and UASP protocol enables near-internal SSD speeds for external storage. This performance level is suitable for video editing, large file transfers, and running applications directly from the external drive.
- Up to 1GB/s transfer speeds
- Reduced CPU utilization with UASP
- Backward compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1
Deployment / Use Cases
This M.2 NVMe enclosure serves as a versatile storage expansion tool for both professional and personal computing environments. Its high-speed interface and portable form factor make it particularly valuable for users who need to transport large datasets between workstations or access demanding applications on multiple systems.
Creative professionals can use it as external project storage for video editing suites, while IT technicians may employ it for system imaging, diagnostics, or temporary storage during upgrades. The enclosure also functions well as a fast backup destination or as primary external storage for laptops with limited internal capacity.
Creative Workflow Enhancement
Video editors, photographers, and graphic designers can store active project files on this high-speed enclosure, enabling smooth playback and quick file transfers between editing stations. The portable design allows projects to travel with the creator.
- Fast media file access
- Portable project storage
- Cross-system compatibility
IT & Technical Applications
System administrators and technicians can use this enclosure for cloning drives, running diagnostic tools, or creating portable boot drives. The USB-powered operation makes it ideal for field service where power outlets may be limited.
- Drive cloning and imaging
- Portable diagnostic tools
- Field service compatibility
Physical Profile
The enclosure features a sleek black aluminum exterior with precision-machined ventilation holes along the sides to promote airflow around the installed SSD. The compact dimensions—approximately the size of a pack of gum—make it exceptionally portable while still accommodating standard M.2 2280 drives. The included mounting hardware is pre-installed, simplifying drive installation with the provided screwdriver.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 0.50" (12.70 mm), 1.60" (40.64 mm), 4.30" (109.22 mm), 2.30 oz (65.20 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 1.60" (40.64 mm)
- Depth
- 4.30" (109.22 mm)
- Height
- 0.50" (12.70 mm)
- Weight
- 2.30 oz (65.20 g)
What's in the Box
The enclosure ships with all necessary components for immediate use, including mounting hardware and connectivity cables.
Highlights
- Converts M.2 NVMe SSDs into portable external storage with up to 1GB/s transfer speeds
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C interface delivers 10Gbps bandwidth for high-performance data transfers
- Aluminum housing with ventilation holes ensures effective heat dissipation during extended use
- Compact and lightweight design (2.3 oz) for easy portability in bags or pockets
- USB-powered operation eliminates need for external power adapter
- UASP support reduces CPU overhead and improves data transfer efficiency
- Backward compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1 for broader system connectivity
- Includes USB-C to USB-C cable, mounting hardware, and screwdriver for complete out-of-box functionality
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | M2E1BMU31C |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure for PCIe SSDs - USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Drive Enclosure |
| Technical Information | |
| Number of Solid State Drive Supported | 1 |
| Number of Solid State Drive Installed | No |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Number of Total Expansion Bays | 1 |
| Network & Communication | |
| Wireless LAN | No |
| UASP Support | Yes |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | USB 3.1 Type C |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Product Material | Aluminum,Plastic |
| Form Factor | External |
| Height | 0.50" (12.70 mm) |
| Width | 1.60" (40.64 mm) |
| Depth | 4.30" (109.22 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 2.30 oz (65.20 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure for PCIe SSDs - USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C 1 x Set of M.2 Mounting Hardware (Installed) 1 x Screw Driver 1 x Quick-Start Guide 1 x USB-C to USB-C Cable (50 cm) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What type of M.2 SSD does this enclosure support?
This enclosure supports M.2 NVMe SSDs that use the PCI Express interface. It is designed for standard M.2 2280 form factor drives (22mm wide, 80mm long). The enclosure does not support SATA-based M.2 drives or other form factors like 2242 or 2260 without additional adapters.
What is the maximum data transfer speed I can expect?
The enclosure supports data transfer speeds up to 1GB/s (approximately 10Gbps) when used with compatible USB 3.1 Gen 2 hosts and high-performance NVMe SSDs. Actual speeds will depend on your specific SSD capabilities, host system performance, and file types being transferred. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface and UASP protocol work together to maximize throughput.
Does this enclosure require external power?
No, this enclosure is USB-powered and draws all necessary power from the host device's USB-C port. This eliminates the need for an external power adapter and enhances portability. Ensure your host device can provide sufficient power through its USB-C port, which most modern laptops, desktops, and tablets support.
Is this enclosure compatible with Thunderbolt 3 ports?
Yes, the enclosure is compatible with Thunderbolt 3 ports as they support USB-C connectivity and USB 3.1 Gen 2 protocols. When connected to a Thunderbolt 3 port, the enclosure will operate at USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds. It does not utilize the full Thunderbolt 3 bandwidth but functions perfectly as a USB 3.1 Gen 2 device.
What comes included in the package?
The package includes the M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure itself, a set of M.2 mounting hardware (pre-installed), a screwdriver for drive installation, a 50cm USB-C to USB-C cable for connectivity, and a quick-start guide. All necessary components are provided for immediate use after purchasing a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD.
What warranty coverage does this product have?
StarTech.com provides a 2-year limited warranty for this enclosure. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For warranty service or support, contact StarTech.com directly with your proof of purchase. The product is also environmentally compliant with EU RoHS, REACH, and WEEE directives.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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