Quick Summary
Best Dual Bay SSD Enclosure with RAID Option.
The Acasis Thunderbolt 3/4 Dual Bay SSD (TBU405ProMax) enclosure offers high-speed performance, dual-drive capacity (up to 16TB), and RAID protection to keep your data safe and accessible, perfect for photographers and creators who need reliable, fast storage.
5 out of 5
In this review, we break down everything you need to know about the Acasis Thunderbolt 4 Dual Bay SSD enclosure (TBU405ProMax). We’ll cover its key benefits for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators, explore real-world performance, and compare its RAID options for data protection.
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons
Pros ✅
✔ High-Speed Transfers: Supports up to 40Gbps data rates for rapid file handling.
✔ Dual SSD Capacity: Holds two M.2 NVMe SSDs, each up to 8TB, totaling 16TB in RAID 0.
✔ RAID 1 (Mirror Storage): Protects your data by duplicating it across both SSDs—if one fails, your files remain safe.
✔ Versatile Compatibility: Works with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4, and multiple operating systems.
✔ Efficient Cooling: Aluminum body with optional built-in fan for heat management.
✔ Easy Installation: Tool-free setup with magnetic fasteners.
Cons ❌
✖ Heat Generation: Sometimes you might experience significant heat output if you don’t turn on the fan.
✖ External Power Needed: Requires a 100W power adapter.
✖ Noise: Active cooling fans can produce noise during operation.
Acasis TBU405ProMax Specs
Interface: Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4
Storage Capacity: Supports up to two M.2 NVMe SSDs, each up to 8TB
Data Transfer Rate: Up to 40Gbps
RAID Support: Software RAID 0 and RAID 1
Video Output: Single screen up to 8K@60Hz UHD
Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS
Dimensions: Not specified
Weight: Not specified
Material: Aluminum alloy with efficient cooling design
Included Accessories: 100W power adapter, Thunderbolt 4 data cable
Additional Features: Plug and play, no drivers required; supports daisy-chaining extension
Key Benefits
From the moment we unboxed and tested this SSD enclosure, we were blown away! Acasis has crafted a portable, high-end SSD enclosure that delivers incredible performance while remaining easy to use.
Key Benefits:
- Premium Build Quality
The first thing you’ll notice is the solid, high-quality construction. Just holding it in your hands, you can tell this is a professional-grade tool built to last. - Dual SSD Slots for Speed & Security
Having the ability to install two Gen 4 NVMe drives is a game-changer. Whether you choose RAID 0 for blazing-fast speeds or RAID 1 for extra data protection, this enclosure gives you up to 16TB of storage in a compact design. - Blazing-Fast Performance
Once you set up your M.2 NVMe drives, the speed speaks for itself. When paired with a Thunderbolt 4 computer, you can edit directly from the SSD enclosure with no lag—perfect for high-resolution workflows.
If you’re a professional working with 4K or even 8K video, this is the storage solution you need. Take your projects anywhere, edit on the go, and enjoy the freedom of ultra-fast, pocket-sized storage!
Design and Build Quality
As we mentioned earlier, the build quality is exceptional! The moment you pick up the Acasis SSD enclosure, you can feel its solid, premium construction.
The aluminum alloy body not only gives it a sleek, professional look but also provides durability and efficient heat dissipation. It has a satisfying weight—sturdy enough to feel reliable yet compact enough for portability.
Every detail, from the smooth finish to the precisely machined edges, reflects high-quality craftsmanship, making it clear that this is a tool built for professionals.
What's in the Box
The Acasis TBU405ProMax SSD enclosure and docking station package includes:
- Thunderbolt 4 Enclosure
- Plastic NVMe Plate Holders
- Rubber NVMe SSD Holders
- 100W USB-C Charger with Interchangeable Plugs
- Thunderbolt 4 USB-C Cable
- USB-C Charging Cable
- User Guide
This comprehensive package ensures you have all the necessary components to set up and use the Acasis TBU405ProMax effectively.
Storage Capacity
This Acasis TBU405ProMax is designed with two slots, each capable of holding an SSD with up to 8TB of storage. If you choose to use RAID 0 mode, you can push the total capacity to a massive 16TB. It’s the perfect solution for expanding your storage space while ensuring fast, efficient data transfer.
A quick tip: when selecting SSDs, avoid models with heatsinks, as they might not fit properly in the case. Also, consider your storage needs carefully—pick an SSD capacity that aligns with how much space you’ll actually use, so you’re not overpaying for extra capacity you don’t need.
M.2 NVMe SSD combinations with RAID 0 (Maximum Performance, Combined Capacity):
- 2x PNY CS3140 1TB SSDs = 2TB total capacity
- 2x PNY CS3140 2TB SSDs = 4TB total capacity
- 2x PNY CS3140 8TB SSDs = 16TB total capacity (RAID 0 for max speed)
M.2 NVMe SSD combinations with RAID 1 (Data Mirroring, Redundancy for Security):
- 2x PNY CS3140 1TB SSDs = 1TB total capacity (mirrored for data protection)
- 2x PNY CS3140 2TB SSDs = 2TB total capacity (mirrored for data protection)
- 2x PNY CS3140 4TB SSDs = 4TB total capacity (mirrored for data protection)
Choosing between RAID 0 and RAID 1 depends on whether you prioritize performance or data safety. RAID 0 maximizes speed and storage, while RAID 1 offers redundancy to protect your data.
SSD Compatibility
The ACASIS Dual Bay SSD Enclosure is specifically designed to work with M.2 NVMe SSDs, offering a versatile and reliable solution for users looking to expand their storage. Let’s dive into the types of M.2 NVMe SSDs it supports.
Supported M.2 NVMe SSD Sizes:
- 2230: Smallest size, ideal for compact devices like ultrabooks
- 2242: Slightly larger, often used in mid-range laptops and ultrabooks
- 2260: Mid-size option, commonly used in desktop PCs and workstations
- 2280: Standard size, typically used in most desktop PCs, laptops, and high-performance systems
What It Doesn’t Support:
- SATA M.2 SSDs: The enclosure is not compatible with SATA M.2 SSDs, so ensure you’re using NVMe-based drives for optimal performance.
Performance & Speed
The Acasis TBU405ProMax supports Thunderbolt 3 and 4 connectivity with speeds up to 2800MB/s. You may also connect it with USB 4.0 with speeds up to 40Gbps.
In order to reach maximum speeds, we used the PNY CS3140 M.2 NVMe SSD (4th Generation) with Approx. sequential read speed of 7500MB/s and Write speed of 5650MB/s.
For photographers and filmmakers, sequential speed is crucial for faster workflows in programs like:
- Luminar Neo
- Aperty
- DaVinci Resolve Studio
Faster sequential speed benefits include:
- Speeding up tasks like batch editing and processing large RAW files
- Loading high-res images for retouching
- Exporting videos more quickly
For filmmakers, it ensures:
- Smooth 4K/8K video playback
- Faster rendering
- Reduced delays during video editing and multicam footage syncing
Essentially, faster sequential speeds improve overall efficiency when handling large files and media projects.
Note: To achieve the highest speeds, be sure to install both M.2 NVMe SSDs and use the Thunderbolt 4 cable included in the packaging.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The ACASIS Dual Bay SSD Enclosure is a versatile solution that serves as both an SSD storage case and a dock.
It allows you to securely store and protect your M.2 NVMe SSDs while also providing quick access for data transfer when connected to your PC or laptop.
This dual functionality makes it the perfect tool for expanding storage and managing your data with ease.
It features:
- Thunderbolt 4 for speeds up to 40Gbps and backward compatibility with previous versions
- USB 4 (up to 40Gbps) for high-speed data transfers with Windows PCs or similar devices.
- USB-C Display for external monitor connections
- HDMI (up to 8K @ 60Hz) for ultra-high-definition display output
- USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps) for efficient file transfers with other devices
- PC/Laptop compatibility with both Windows and Mac
- 100W Power Adapter for reliable power delivery during intensive tasks
These versatile connectivity options make the ACASIS enclosure perfect for expanding storage, video output, and high-performance data transfer across various systems.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the Acasis TBU405ProMax SSD enclosure directly from the official Acasis website.
Plus, don’t forget to take advantage of any exclusive coupons available! Simply enter the promo code at checkout to enjoy additional savings on your purchase. Be sure to check the site for the latest offers before finalizing your order!
Summary
The ACASIS Dual Bay SSD Enclosure is a versatile and high-performance solution that combines both an SSD storage case and a dock. With support for M.2 NVMe SSDs, it offers fast data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps, along with flexible connectivity options like USB 3.2, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI (up to 8K), and USB-C display. Whether you need secure storage or quick access to your data, this enclosure delivers reliable performance for all your storage needs.
Is it for photographers and creators?
Absolutely! With fast data transfer, high-resolution video support, and dual SSD slots, it’s a perfect fit for anyone working with large files and creative projects.
* We’re affiliated with Acasis, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you when you purchase through our links. This helps support our content and recommendations. For full transparency, you can find our affiliate disclosure here.
