OWC Launches Express 1M2 80G Thunderbolt 5 Portable SSD Enclosure With 6000MB/s Speeds

Other World Computing (OWC) today introduced the Express 1M2 80G, a portable SSD delivering next-generation Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 speeds. Capable of over 6000MB/s, the fanless drive works with Macs, iPad Pro models, and any system supporting Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4.

The Express 1M2 80G is offered in two configurations: a do-it-yourself enclosure for users who want to install their own M.2 NVMe drive, or ready-to-run solutions preconfigured with capacities up to 8TB. Both options are upgradeable, supporting standard 2280 and 2242 NVMe SSDs. OWC has built the unit with a solid aluminum housing featuring finned heatsink-style cooling to maintain sustained top-end speeds without thermal throttling.




The drive is bus-powered over USB4 and marketed as a solution for demanding workflows in content creation, mobile performance, and gaming. It joins OWC's lineup of high-speed external drives, following products like the OWC Envoy Pro mini that also emphasized cross-platform compatibility.

Key specifications include:
• Over 6000MB/s peak real-world speed
• Compatibility with Macs, PCs, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, and Surface devices equipped with Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, USB4, and Thunderbolt 3
• Build-your-own or preconfigured solutions up to 8TB
• Upgradeable with higher-capacity M.2 NVMe SSDs
• Fanless, heat-dissipating aluminum design
• Powered via included USB4 cable



Pricing and Availability
The OWC Express 1M2 80G is available now through OWC.com and Amazon, priced at $219 for the enclosure only, $349 for 1TB, $499 for 2TB, $699 for 4TB, and $1,299 for 8TB.