80 GB/S: New variant of fast OWC housing for M.2-SSDs

Users who have recently bought a USB-C-SSD cover from Other World Computing (OWC) may now be annoyed: The provider specializing in Apple accessories has launched a new model of the 1M2 series that just doubles the potential data throughput. The name of the product that looks visually like the predecessor: 1m2 80g. The 80g stands for the possible 80 GB/s, which the device can now pass on with the appropriate interior (and suitable SSD).

From 40 to 80 GB/s via USB 4.0 or Thunderbolt 5

The pre-model had connected PCIe-X4-M.2 bar with a maximum of 40 GB/s-via USB 4.0 or Thunderbolt 4. The successor should pack up to “over 6000 MB/s” via a USB 4.0 host with the support of 80 GB/s or a Thunderbolt-5 device (such as Apple’s Mac Mini M4 Pro). 40-GB/S hosts with USB 4.0 reach “Real-World Speeds” from “via” 3800 MB/s, Thunderbolt-4 devices up to 3800 MB/s. Thunderbolt 3 only works with Macs and promises up to 2800 MB/s according to the OWC.

The hardware itself, except for the new, faster board, hardly changes: the 1M2 is still in a 2.5-inch case from aluminum and accepts NVME strips of the types 2280 and 2242. The power supply is carried out via the computer. A USB 4 cable (not Thunderbolt 5) is included. The entire housing consists of a small front with the logic of cooling ribs, so it should be comparatively less hot in operation. Nevertheless, attention must be paid to a correct installation of the M.2.

From $ 219 to $ 1299, with and without storage

OWC sells the 1M2 80G in different variants. Without M.2, you currently pay 219 US dollars plus tax, shipping and customs at the manufacturer. 1 TB costs 349, 2 TB 499, 4 TB 699 and 8 TB $ 1299. The modules come from OWC itself who the OEM is, initially remained unclear.

For comparison: the old variant 1M2 is in stores without M.2 module already significantly cheaper (from € 120.05) available. Here, too, you can buy models with OWC SSDs of sizes 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB and 8 TB. Anyone who has acquired the predecessor but does not have a Mac or PC that supports the USB 4.0 with 80 GB/s or Thunderbolt 5 does not have to be bothered by the new model. However, it is less future -proof than the successor. When euro prices are available for this is still unclear.