The 2016 ASUS VivoMini VC65 family was marketed as the world’s smallest mini PC able to accommodate up to four 2.5-inch SSDs or HDDs. That is ASUS’s historical product claim—not a verified ranking of PCs today—and “up to four” describes maximum supported storage modules, not what every unit shipped with installed.
What ASUS meant by “four 2.5-inch drive bays”
In its January 28, 2016 announcement, ASUS said: “They are the world’s smallest mini PCs that can accommodate up to four 2.5-inch SSD or HDD storage modules.” The statement applied to the VC65 and VC65R and was a manufacturer claim about the models’ capacity, not an independent size comparison or a claim that four drives came in every box. ASUS’s announcement
ASUS described a modular arrangement with three configurations: two storage modules plus an optical disc drive, two storage modules, or four storage drives. The optical-drive option therefore differs from the four-drive arrangement. Actual factory configurations could vary by model and region; check the listing and exact SKU rather than assuming a particular unit includes four drives. ASUS’s announcement ASUS pressroom
VC65 and VC65R: what differs
The VC65 name covers related configurations, so the exact model matters. ASUS specifically associated built-in RAID support with the higher-specification VC65R. Its 2016 commercial product guide also describes the VC65R as supporting up to four 2.5-inch storage drives and notes RAID on selected models; that is not evidence that every VC65 has onboard RAID. ASUS 2016 product guide
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- VC65: ASUS announced the family’s support for up to four 2.5-inch SSD or HDD modules. Do not infer RAID support for a particular unit without checking its exact specification.
- VC65R: ASUS identifies this higher-specification model with built-in RAID support, but the specific RAID options and configuration depend on the unit.
ASUS positioned the VC65R for NAS or mini-server use and described home-theater and media-production uses for the family. Those are manufacturer-intended use cases, not independent performance tests. ASUS’s announcement ASUS pressroom
Which drives fit a VC65?
ASUS specifies 2.5-inch SSDs or HDDs, but its announcement does not establish a universal interface, thickness limit, capacity ceiling, or compatibility list for every regional SKU. Before buying a drive or a used system, confirm these details against the precise model and its manual:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Exact model and SKU, including whether it is VC65 or VC65R.
- Drive interface supported by that unit.
- Physical thickness and available space in the relevant module position.
- Drive capacity compatibility.
- Which storage modules and, if applicable, optical-drive module are already installed.
A 2.5-inch SSD is a straightforward solid-state upgrade option, while a 2.5-inch HDD may suit a capacity-oriented build. The form factor alone does not guarantee that a particular drive will fit or work in every VC65 configuration.
Other published VC65 specifications
ASUS’s 2016 announcement also described a 2-liter chassis and support for up to 2.8GHz 6th-generation Intel Core T-series processors. ASUS stated idle power as little as 15W and idle noise of 21dB. These are manufacturer-published figures; the exact configuration and measurement conditions matter, and they should not be read as independent test results. ASUS’s announcement
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Keep the VC65 distinct from later VivoMini models
Do not transfer specifications from similarly named systems to the original VC65. ASUS’s 2017 Computex announcement identifies the VC68V as a distinct model, not another VC65 configuration. ASUS 2017 Computex announcement
Likewise, specifications reported for a later VC65-C1 should not be treated as evidence about the 2016 VC65. When comparing a listing, use the full model designation and the documentation for that exact machine.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
What to check before buying a VC65
VC65 and VC65R configurations, including barebones availability, could differ by region. Current inventory and pricing are not established here. Before committing to a listing, confirm the complete SKU, included drives, module arrangement, RAID support if needed, and drive compatibility using the seller’s configuration details and the matching ASUS manual.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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