Asus ROG Strix Aiolos debuts as a 20Gbps M.2 SSD enclosure with a tool-less design and RGB

ASUS has launched the ROG Strix Aiolos, a compact M.2 SSD enclosure that brings a few distinct upgrades over the older ROG Strix Arion (curr: $68.99 at Amazon). Both enclosures support M.2 NVMe SSDs up to 2280 in length, but the new model adds compatibility with M.2 SATA SSDs as well, thanks to its dual M.2 interface.

That said, the biggest upgrade here is transfer speeds. Featuring a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C interface, the ROG Strix Aiolos supports up to 20 Gbps, which is twice as fast as the Arion. Needless to say, faster performance also means more heat. Asus uses a combination of high-efficiency internal thermal pad and a heat-resistant, injection-molded liquid-silicone-rubber coating to keep temperatures in check under heavy loads. On top of that, Asus bundles exclusive software for real-time monitoring of key metrics like SSD health and performance.

The enclosure itself features a tool-free design and measures 115.5 x 46 x 15.12 mm while checking in at 139 g. Like the older model, it includes an RGB lighting, along with a metal hook and ROG-branded fabric tag for easy storage and travel. Asus also claims the new hook is five times more durable than the one used on the Arion.

For now, Asus has not shared any details on pricing or availability.