The Icy Dock FLEX-FIT Trio allows users to load up to two 2.5″ drives and one 3.5″ device or drive into a 5.25″ bay. The 3.5″ device can be secured via optional screws (which we recommend using), and like many of Icy Dock’s new products, the FLEX-FIT Trio utilizes passive cooling. Although the 2.5″ bays are reserved for SSDs or HDDs, the 3.5″ bay can be filled with drives, USB 3.0 hubs, multimedia card readers, HDD/SSD mobile racks, or HDD/SSD brackets.
The Icy Dock FLEX-FIT Trio allows users to load up to two 2.5″ drives and one 3.5″ device or drive into a 5.25″ bay. The 3.5″ device can be secured via optional screws (which we recommend using), and like many of Icy Dock’s new products, the FLEX-FIT Trio utilizes passive cooling. Although the 2.5″ bays are reserved for SSDs or HDDs, the 3.5″ bay can be filled with drives, USB 3.0 hubs, multimedia card readers, HDD/SSD mobile racks, or HDD/SSD brackets.
As its name indicates, the Trio uses Icy Dock’s handy the FLEX-FIT system, which provides users with a good level of flexibility for a 5.25” adapter. With the versatile system, using have the ability to store a 3.5” device or hard drive as well as an additional 2 x 2.5” HDD/SSD, IDE or SATA hard drives from 7mm – 9.5mm height. Additionally, users won’t have to buy multiple brackets, making it both space efficient and cost effective.
The Icy Dock FLEX-FIT Trio goes for a street price of roughly only $12 and is backed by a three-year warranty.
Features:
- Compatible with standard 5.25″ device bay
- Fits 1 x 3.5″ device / HDD and 2 x 2.5″ HDD/SSD
- One piece, lightweight construction
- Snap-off front panel dust cover
- Smart-Tip locking mechanism for screwless 3.5″ device installation
- Screw-less installation design for 2.5″ HDD/SSD slots
- Side screw holes for 3.5″ HDD installation
- Compatible with our 3.5″ mobile racks and brackets
Specifications
- Drive Fit
- 1 x 3.5″ device or hard drive
- 2 x 2.5″ IDE/SATA HDD/SSD (7 – 9.5 mm)
- Device Fit: 1 x 5.25″ half height device bay
- Material: Plastic
- Dimension: (L x W x H): 148.5 x 41.3 x 170mm
- Weight: 115g
- Package Contents
- Device
- User Manual
- Screws
- Warranty: 3 years
Design and Use
The device is made of black plastic and only has branding on the interior of the 3.5″ bay. There is a black tab that can be removed from the back and slid in front of the 3.5″ slot (if a HDD or SSD is installed) to block the drive from view. If an interfaced device is installed in the 3.5″ slot then the tab can simply be thrown away. Since this 3.5” bay supports both 3.5” hard drive and 3.5” device, there are many build possibilities for consumers. Additionally, the FLEX-FIT Trio is compatible with USB 3.0 hubs, multimedia card readers, and fan speed controllers in 3.5” form factor; all functionalities that we appreciate.
Because Icy Dock uses a single, one-piece plastic open frame design, users can expect a very durable dock with a passive cooling factor. With this design, it reduces potential mechanical failures when using the device. Additionally, because of this single piece design, it has no moving parts but retains all functionalities of the adapter.
The two 2.5″ bays have spring-loaded stabilizers to keep tension on the drives. There are also tabs atop the drives that keep them pressed down should they be 7 mm. Eject buttons that are located lateral to the drives keep them pressed back and can be depressed to release them.
The 3.5″ slot is secured into place with several small tabs along the side of the bay, with optional screw holes (if they are implemented, the user should avoid over tightening the screws to prevent chassis breakage). The FLEX-FIT Trio slides into any 5.25″ bay with the face of the 3.5″ device pointing outward.
Though all drives can be installed without the use of tools, we recommend using screws for added security especially in systems that will be hosting sensitive data.
Conclusion
For those wishing to maximize the use of an unused 5.25″ slot the FLEX-FIT Trio is essential. Depending on what is desired, it can facilitate a massive storage upgrade as well as the addition of USB hubs or multimedia card readers. Its ergonomical design allows users to be sure that drives and devices will remain immobile and as cool as is possible with passive cooling, and its low price point makes it a must given the right scenario.
This little Icy Dock accessory is also incredibly versatile, as we were very impressed with the possibilities of what you can do with this as far as configurations go. For example, users can use it as 3.5″ card reader and quickly switch its function to tightly hold an SSD whenever deem necessary. Icy Dock’s flexible device also comes at a very affordable price point, going for only $10-12 a bracket, and with a three-year warranty to boot, you really can’t go wrong with this device.
Pros
- Frees up a ton of space
- Easy installation and functionality
- Cheap
Cons
- Might be a bit awkward for some power cables
- Could get warm if three HDDs are installed and all working
Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking to maximize space or prepare for future upgrades, the FLEX-FIT Trio comes highly recommended.
Icy Dock FLEX-FIT Trio 3.25″ to 5.25″ Converter Kit at Amazon
