### Thunderbolt 5 and the OWC Express 1M2 80G Portable SSD Enclosure
Thunderbolt 5 technology is making a significant impact in the technology sphere, notably with the newest MacBook Pro versions that utilize its remarkable features. Recently, Other World Computing (OWC) unveiled the Express 1M2 80G portable SSD enclosure, crafted to exploit the speed improvements of Thunderbolt 5, delivering performance that competes with built-in storage options.
#### Express 1M2 80G Portable SSD Enclosure
The OWC Express 1M2 80G portable SSD enclosure is designed specifically for creators and professionals needing high-performance storage while on the move. This bus-powered drive connects through Thunderbolt 5 and remains compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Macs. This adaptability guarantees that it is a convenient choice for both contemporary and future hardware setups.
At present, Thunderbolt 5 is available exclusively on Apple’s latest M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro models, the M4 Pro Mac mini, and the most recent Mac Studio. The Express 1M2 80G is built to fully utilize these advanced ports while still supporting a broad array of Macs currently in use.
#### Performance Capabilities
OWC asserts that the Express 1M2 80G can attain real-world speeds surpassing 6,000 MB/s, positioning it nearly on par with the performance of Apple’s internal SSDs present in the latest MacBook Pro models. While internal drives generally exceed external drives in sequential transfer evaluations, the Thunderbolt 5 portable solution comes exceptionally close. In certain workflows, such as random reads and writes, it might even surpass internal options.
This makes the Express 1M2 80G a compelling option for offloading large video projects, executing applications from external storage, or organizing extensive photo libraries.
#### Design and Compatibility
The enclosure boasts an all-aluminum design that also serves as a heat sink, allowing it to maintain consistent transfer speeds without the need for fans. Besides its compatibility with Macs, OWC indicates that the drive operates smoothly with PCs, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, and Microsoft Surface devices, enhancing its functionality across various platforms.
#### Availability and Pricing
The OWC Express 1M2 80G is available for sale at $219 for the enclosure itself, permitting users to install their own NVMe M.2 SSD of up to 8TB. Alternatively, pre-configured models can be ordered from OWC, beginning at $349 for 1TB and reaching up to $1,299 for 8TB.
The OWC Express 1M2 80G is currently obtainable directly from OWC and Amazon, making it a viable choice for individuals seeking to upgrade their storage solutions with state-of-the-art technology.
